Ch. 401..410
Chapter 401
Marriage Certificate
Leonard nodded.
What a coincidence.
“I’ve been wanting to ask this,” Kathleen started. “Kelly has been to the Macari residence in the past, right?”
Leonard hummed as he nodded. “I brought her over during Samuel’s twentieth birthday.”
“That’s why the girl looks so familiar,” Kathleen muttered. “You’d better give Kelly a call then. The little girl has been looking for her mom since she got here. I reckon Kelly is also worried to death.”
Leonard passed her his phone. “You make the call.”
“Huh?” Kathleen uttered, completely puzzled.
With a somber expression, Leonard said, “I don’t want to talk to her.
Kathleen threw him his phone. “Don’t be a nutcase! Do you think it’s easy for your ex-girlfriend to beg you? She wouldn’t have bothered you if it wasn’t for the fact that she had no other options,” Kathleen spat. “You make the call.”
Leonard stiffened at her words.
He did not know about Felicia’s condition.
If he did, he probably would not have treated her the way he did.
Resignedly, he picked up his phone and sent a message to Kelly: Your daughter is at the hospital. Come quick!
After the text, he even attached the location of the hospital.
Kathleen glanced at Leonard and massaged her temples. “It seems like you hate her.”
A deep crease forms between Leonard’s eyebrows. “Did Samuel tell you about Kelly and me?”
“No,” Kathleen replied lightly. “It’s just that I could tell how fond you were of her when you brought her over to the Macari residence. Kelly was different back then; she was spoiled. And you—you enjoyed spoiling her. I just thought that since the two of you were so madly in love, there were bound to be regrets during your breakup.”
Furthermore, the party with resentments must have loved more intensely.
“It’s all in the past,” Leonard mumbled.
“Is it?” Kathleen asked quietly.
She did not believe Leonard’s words at all.
Right then, Hannah barged into the ward with a group of people.
She froze as she was not expecting Leonard to be there as well.
Leonard’s eyebrows pinched. “Ms. Tate?”
“Mr. Sullivan. A surprise seeing you here,” Hannah remarked coldly. “I’m here to pick up my granddaughter.”
Leonard frowned.
“Take her away,” Hannah ordered.
The two bodyguards immediately walked up to Felicia, who was lying on the hospital bed.
Kathleen furrowed her brows at that and was just about to speak up.
However, Leonard had stepped up and used his body to stop the bodyguards from advancing. His gaze was sharp as he said, “Get away!”
The two bodyguards were too shocked to continue walking up to the little girl.
Meanwhile, Kathleen narrowed her eyes and was prepared for the drama to unfold before her.
“What do you mean by this, Mr. Sullivan?” Hannah asked icily.
“You can’t move her now,” Leonard replied. “Don’t you know what illness she has?”
“What’s the point of knowing?” Hannah responded sardonically. “I’ve already consulted the doctor long ago. Her condition is both hard to treat and hard to cure.”
“A condition that’s both hard to treat and cure?” Leonard repeated. His eyes darkened as he continued, “So you’re just going to take her away without even trying to do anything for her?”
Hannah was displeased. “She’s not even your daughter, Leonard. Why are you getting yourself involved?”
Leonard clenched his fists at that.
Just then, Kelly entered the ward.
“Where’s Felicia?” she asked frantically.
“Here,” Leonard said as he looked at Kelly, who was a wreck.
Kelly approached Felicia and immediately burst into tears upon seeing the girl’s state.
“I’m so sorry, Felicia. It’s my fault for not protecting you,” Kelly cried. She wanted to reach out and caress Felicia but stopped upon seeing the various machines hung onto her.
Kelly turned to Leonard, her eyes brimming with tears. “What happened to Felicia?”
Leonard, too, was unsure. Hence, he turned to Kathleen.
“She was sent to the hospital earlier this morning,” Kathleen explained. “A girl named Madeline had saved her from under a tire. She was walking her dog when she came across Felicia.”
“What?” Kelly exclaimed in shock. She immediately turned to Hannah. “Mom! This was not what you promised me. You said that as long as I listened to you and your arrangements, you’d take good care of Felicia. How could you?”
“I…” Hannah was at a loss for words.
Kelly’s tears became a torrent as she stared at Felicia. “She has leukemia. Any injuries would lead to her life being in danger. How could you do this?”
“What was I supposed to do?” Hannah scoffed. “She’s just like you— doesn’t listen to me at all! She’s been whining about wanting to see you and sneaked out while we were still asleep in the morning. It serves her right to be knocked down by a car!”
Kelly’s face paled. “How could you say that, Mom?”
Leonard narrowed his eyes as he looked at Kelly, who was on the brink of breaking down. “It appears that you forced your daughter to go on a blind date with me, Ms. Tate.”
“Stop faking it, Mr. Sullivan,” Hannah sneered. “I just came to know that you and Kelly had actually dated. I have to give it to the both of you for hiding it so well.”
“That’s enough, Mom!” Kelly cried out in a panic.
Hannah let out a cold snort. “It’s a pity that this child isn’t yours, Mr. Sullivan.”
With that, Kelly’s face became a shade paler than it already was.
She didn’t expect Hannah to believe what she told her about Felicia not being Leonard’s child.
However, the situation was about to be unpleasant because Hannah had so blatantly disclosed it to Leonard.
Leonard inquired impassively, “Ms. Tate, isn’t it your ultimate goal to get your daughter to marry me? I’ll marry her. This child is therefore also mine.”
Hannah’s eyes lit up at that instant. “Really?”
“I have my conditions,” Leonard stated coldly.
Wrinkles appeared at the corners of Hannah’s eyes due to her uncontainable excitement at that moment. “Do state them.”
“You are not allowed to be within proximity to Kelly and Felicia from today onward,” Leonard declared, his gaze sharp. “I’ll chop off your fingers if you fail to abide by this.”
Despite her displeasure from Leonard’s threat, Hannah was nonetheless thrilled as Kelly had finally married into the Sullivan family.
We’d finally have someone to rely on from today onward. This is way more important than getting threatened!
Furthermore, Hannah did not believe Kelly would ignore her if she was truly in need.
“Sure. I accept your condition,” Hannah declared. She narrowed her eyes at Kelly. “You’re lucky this time. You’d better not forget about your mother after becoming a rich wife!”
With that, Hannah, along with the two bodyguards, left.
Kelly stood up abruptly. “Wait—”
She was about to go after Hannah when Leonard stopped her.
He refused to let her go.
Kelly bit her lip in frustration. “Don’t stop me, Leonard. Let me talk to her. I can’t marry you!”
“Do you have a better way to solve this other than marrying me?” Leonard asked icily.
Kelly froze.
Meanwhile, Kathleen had dismissed herself after sensing that there was nothing else for her to do.
Tears were streaming down Kelly’s cheeks. “But I don’t want you to marry me in this situation.”
Leonard was not marrying her out of love, and she did not want that.
Leonard scoffed. “What? Are you hoping that I’ll fall in love with you again?”
“Then why did you agree with my mom’s request?” Kelly asked, utterly puzzled.
“Well, I’m your first lover after all,” Leonard replied in a casually cruel manner. “There’s always an option to get a divorce after marriage. Also, the main priority is to solve your problem. I’m not sure why you keep asking such pointless questions.”
Kelly was taken aback by Leonard’s words.
“I’ll get Kathleen to help with Felicia’s issue,” Leonard declared before coldly adding, “Prepare the documents. We’ll get our marriage certificate done tomorrow.”
“Tomorrow?” Kelly asked, clearly shocked.
Is he in such a hurry? Does he really not want to think more about it?
Chapter 402
Cousin
“What else?” Leonard frowned. “Do you wish to host a wedding ceremony before registering for the marriage certificate?”
Kelly was stunned.
“Stop dreaming! There’s not going to be a wedding ceremony. We are only doing this for your mother’s sake in the first place,” he said coldly.
With that, he strode away.
Tears streamed down Kelly’s cheeks. She covered her mouth and wept in silence. Why is this happening? I do not wish for Leonard to harbor so much hatred toward me, but we still ended up like this. What do I do?
Leonard went over to Samuel’s ward to look for Kathleen.
“Kathleen, how is Felicia?” Leonard frowned.
Kathleen had just entered the room.
Samuel poured her a cup of water before staring at Leonard in displeasure. “Why are you in such a hurry? Let her take a sip of water first.”
Leonard flushed.
She received the glass of water and said, “As I mentioned earlier, she has leukemia and requires a bone marrow transplant, similar to the condition Nicolette had in the past.”
Samuel lowered his gaze.
Leonard glanced at him. It seems like Kathleen’s tactless remark is not only directed at me.
“When can we proceed with the operation, then?” Leonard was anxious.
“We’ll have to wait for further updates. The operation can be done any time if a compatible bone marrow is available in the bone marrow bank. However, if there isn’t, then we can only wait,” she explained.
“What should we do if no compatible bone marrow is available? Can Felicia’s body condition allow her to wait?” Leonard asked worryingly.
“You’ve asked the crucial question. Felicia’s condition is terrible. I figure she does not have much time left to wait, three months, tops.” Kathleen looked sideways.
Leonard was astounded.
“If there is no compatible bone marrow in the bone marrow bank, then we’ll need to check if there are any suitable donors among her relatives. I think Kelly must have asked around, but things are not looking hopeful for her,” she elaborated.
“What if there still isn’t any suitable bone marrow available in the end?” Leonard pressed on.
“In that case, we can ask Kelly to give birth to another child and use the umbilical cord’s blood to save Felicia. I can try to slow the disease’s progression and allow Felicia to survive longer,” Kathleen replied.
Leonard fell silent as his mind raced.
If Kelly needs to give birth to another child, does that mean she needs to find that man? What if the bone marrow is still not compatible? If that happens…
A distressed look filled Leonard’s handsome face.
“Kathleen, I’ll be counting on you regarding Felicia’s issue,” Leonard uttered in a hoarse voice.
“Don’t worry. I’ll do my best. Anyway, the Hoover family’s blood flows in me. I’ll visit the bone marrow transplant center to do a compatibility test later,” Kathleen said.
Leonard gazed at her in astonishment. “In that case, I’ll join you.”
She nodded. “All right.”
Kathleen and Leonard went to the bone marrow transplant center together and had their bone marrow samples aspirated.
Kathleen exited that place while holding a test report.
She was about say something when Kelly ran over.
“Dr. Johnson.” Kelly looked at Kathleen and was hesitant to speak.
Then, she turned to gaze at Leonard. “I heard you’re here to take a bone marrow compatibility test?”
“Is there a problem?” he asked indifferently.
“No.” Kelly panicked. “Thank you.”
Leonard gave her the cold shoulder.
Kelly eyed Kathleen uneasily. “Dr. Johnson, may I have a word with you?”
“Sure.” Kathleen nodded.
“Kathleen, I’ll be leaving first. Let me know if there are any updates.” Leonard was dissatisfied after realizing Kelly was not there to look for him.
With that, he left.
Kathleen regarded Kelly with an impassive look. “Shouldn’t you be thrilled knowing that Leonard came to do the bone marrow compatibility test? Why the long face?”
Kelly was stunned.
“Dr. Johnson. Y- You knew?” Kelly’s expression stiffened.
Kathleen nodded. “It is very obvious to me. Although I don’t know what happened between you two, your daughter’s blood type is the same as his. They both have Rh-negative blood.”
“Dr. Johnson, Leonard doesn’t know anything, so please don’t say anything to him,” Kelly pleaded with her.
“It’s no wonder it’s so difficult to find a compatible bone marrow for your daughter.” Kathleen sighed.
Kelly took a deep breath. “Thank you.”
“Why do you still intend to keep him in the dark even at this time?” Kathleen was puzzled.
Kelly replied with a hint of bitterness, “Kathleen, you’ll understand my rationale if you did not lose your memories. However, you cannot fathom my decision now, right?”
“I think I may be unable to understand even if I do not lose my memories.” Kathleen shrugged. “Is the grudge between you two more important than your daughter’s life?”
“Kathleen, are you faking your amnesia?” Kelly gave her a meaningful look.
Kathleen uttered nonchalantly, “I’m not faking my amnesia, but I’ve recalled some things. Coincidentally, you are included in this part of my memory.”
“Is it memories from Samuel’s twentieth birthday banquet?” Kelly asked.
Kathleen nodded.
Kelly said, “I knew Samuel liked you since then. The way he looked at you was different from how he looked at Nicolette.”
“Is that so? I do not recall all those things.”
“Kathleen, Leonard and I actually ended our relationship on bad terms.” Kelly bit her lip. “I broke up with him because he caught me cheating on him with another man in bed.”
“Why did you cheat on him when you liked him so much?”
“Leonard did not know I was the Hoover family’s daughter when I first started dating him. He regarded me like I was an ordinary girl and treated me very well. He loved me a lot and had never looked down on me because of my unremarkable origin. I liked him. I really did.”
“But?”
“I believe you know that my uncle has a son, right? In the past, they treated us inhumanely to save that child. At that time, my physique was more suitable than Zion’s. However, I heard that I would become infertile after taking the medication, so I did not want to burden Leonard. That’s why I resorted to that method,” Kelly explained in a hoarse voice.
After saying that, she took a deep breath. Tears brimmed in her reddened eyes.
“That news was fake. However, I did not anticipate that I was already pregnant with his child then. I was terrified. I fear the Hoover family would force me to abort my child to save my uncle’s son.” Kelly sniffled. “Luckily, because of my suspicion and the Rh-negative blood type of the child I was carrying, my blood had undergone mutation. Therefore, they’ve selected someone else.”
Kathleen knitted her brows. “Then, why didn’t you meet with Leonard?”
“I’ve lost the courage to do so. Can you understand my stance?” Kelly croaked.
Kathleen nodded. “What happened afterward?”
Kelly continued, “I left the Hoover family at once after that. However, my mother found me and forced me to return to the Hoover family for the sake of the family’s assets. She even took Felicia away. It was also only then did I know Felicia had leukemia. I begged the other members of the Hoover family to do the compatibility test, but all of them refused.”
Kathleen uttered coolly, “The members of the Hoover family sure are heartless.”
“They’re all like that. Leonard told me earlier that he’s only marrying me because that is part of the plan. That’s why I don’t want to tell him. We will part ways peacefully after this. No one will feel happy if we force ourselves to be together simply because of the child. And so, Dr. Johnson, I hope you will not divulge any unnecessary information to him, okay?”
Kathleen remained unfazed. “It’s your call. I’ll respect whatever decision you make as long as you think it is the right thing to do.”
“Thank you.” Kelly held Kathleen’s hand. “Come to think of it. I’m considered your cousin, right?”
Chapter 403
Grudge
Kathleen was stunned.
Kelly said, “Kathleen, the Hoover family are ruthless. You need to be careful.”
“I will,” Kathleen replied.
“Trevor is actually not that big of a concern. My grandma is the one you need to be wary of. That woman has a very twisted mind,” Kelly reminded.
“Okay. Thank you for your reminder.” Kathleen nodded.
Kelly flushed. “Perhaps I should have told you all these things earlier.”
Kathleen fell into a daze.
“I knew of your existence for a long time. When I was very little, I overheard my grandma talking on the phone, and she mentioned you as well as your mother. Since then, I was made aware that your mother is my grandpa’s ex-girlfriend, and she was at that time pregnant.”
“Do you know who Old Mrs. Hoover was talking to?” Kathleen asked.
Kelly shook her head. “I don’t.”
“All right. I got it. I’ll look for you if I have any more doubts.” Kathleen’s expression was calm.
“Okay.” Kelly nodded.
Kathleen turned around and left.
She leaned against the wall while wearing a poker face.
She grew more confident that her mother’s disappearance must have had something to do with the Hoover family.
Since Old Mrs. Hoover is so cruel, I shall not show her any mercy in the future!
Meanwhile, at the Yoeger residence, Yareli found Zachary.
“Uncle Zachary, are you really planning to just hand over the company and this house to an outsider?”
Zachary was drinking alcohol at that moment. He had not left the house in the past few days.
“Do you truly think that’s what I want? But what else can I do now?” he said.
After all, Frances had already made her will, and they were rendered incapable of further actions.
“You really can’t think of any method?” Yareli questioned him in a meaningful tone.
He gazed emotionlessly at her. “Why? Do you have an idea?”
“Although I cannot resurrect Grandma to amend her will…” Yareli sneered. “I have a way to re-seize Yoeger Group.”
“How do you intend to do that?” Zachary arched his brow.
“Someone is offering capital to help us purchase Yoeger Group’s shares in secret. However, she has a condition. If we can help achieve her goal successfully, she agrees to gift us those shares upon completing the task,” Yareli explained.
He frowned. “Really?”
“I think you already know that Yoeger Group has been progressing very well under Charles’ leadership in the past few years. It will be such a waste for us to give the corporation up just like that. Merely relying on the feeble amount of money from the family’s trust fund for a living will not be sufficient,” Yareli said coldly.
“I’m aware of all those things even without you pointing them out,” Zachary replied impatiently.
“In that case, shouldn’t you begin taking some actions instead of sitting here and drinking alcohol by yourself?” Yareli’s eyes radiated a chilly aura.
He furrowed his brows. “Who is that person? What does she want us to help her with?”
“You are not a stranger to this person. She had provided us with plenty of assistance previously. You will know her identity once I tell you her goal,” Yareli said in a significant tone.
“What’s her goal then?” Zachary asked curiously.
“She wants Kathleen dead.” A hint of murderous intent flashed across Yareli’s eyes.
What?
Zachary straightened himself on the chair and placed down his wine glass. “Old Mrs. Hoover looked for you again?”
“Yes.” She nodded.
His face darkened. “Do you think it is easy to kill Kathleen Johnson? Putting aside the fact that she has acquired abilities to protect herself now, she’s also safeguarded by Charles and Samuel. We can do her no harm.”
“Who says we can do her no harm?” She sneered. “If we make a direct move on her, Samuel and Charles will certainly know we are the culprits.”
“Then, how are you going to accomplish the task given to you by Old Mrs. Hoover?” he asked curiously.
Yareli grinned sinisterly. “Isn’t this easy? Who are the people Kathleen cares for the most?”
“It must be her two children,” Zachary answered.
He understood Yareli’s intention after the words left his mouth.
“However, the problem is, how do you plan to seize them?” He frowned. “If you lay a finger on those two kids, Kathleen will not let you go. Not to mention having to face Samuel’s wrath as well.”
She scoffed, “Ha. I already told you we cannot be so obvious in executing the plan.”
“What other methods do you have in mind?” Zachary was eager to know.
“I already bribed a servant from the Macari family. You can rest assured as this person would never betray us, and he will help us smuggle the children out. We don’t have to deal with them. We just have to inform Kathleen where the kids are held captive and wait for her to rescue them.”
“What happens next?” Zachary was baffled.
“Then, I will bomb her and her b*stards into pieces. Haha!” Yareli laughed ominously.
I can’t wait for this delightful occasion to take place!
Zachary wore a deep frown.
Why do I feel like the hatred Yareli harbors toward Kathleen and her children is unusual?
“Aren’t you still going to invite trouble for yourself by doing this?” He was caught in perplexity.
“Uncle Zachary, you need to be more ruthless to become an accomplished man. Abandoning all doubts is the key to achieving great success.” She paused briefly before adding, “Have you made up your mind?”
Zachary knitted his brows, seemingly in hesitance.
Yareli looked at him disdainfully. “You are destined to stay an ordinary man for life, after all.”
He bellowed in anger, “What did you say?”
“When will you be successful with your timid personality? Since you’re not participating in this plan, I’ll do it myself. The company will be mine when I triumph in the future!” Yareli uttered derisively.
With that, she turned on her heels and left.
Yareli had arrived at the mansion’s entrance when Zachary caught up with her. “Let Old Mrs. Hoover know that I agree to her request.”
“That’s the right attitude. There will be much more riches and luxuries for you to enjoy in the future.” Yareli smirked.
Zachary regarded her with a meaningful look.
He could not shake off the feeling that Yareli was different from before.
After Yareli left the mansion, she immediately contacted Old Mrs. Hoover upon getting into the car.
“Old Mrs. Hoover, everything is now well-arranged. I’ve convinced Zachary. We can push all the blame to him in the future without having to shoulder any responsibilities ourselves.”
“Good. Very good. You’ve done well, Yareli.” An old woman’s deep and menacing voice sounded from the speaker.
“Thank you for your compliments, Old Mrs. Hoover.” Yareli smiled faintly. “What about our previous agreement?”
“I’ve already instructed someone to send the item to you. I’ll pass the other half to you upon the fulfillment of this job,” Old Mrs. Hoover replied coldly.
“All right!” Yareli was overjoyed. “I’ll go back and check out that item then.”
“I will make sure your hard work is well-appreciated if you carry out your duty with diligence.”
“Okay. I got it.” Yareli nodded.
Old Mrs. Hoover hung up the call afterward.
Yareli curled her lips.
I can finally kill Kathleen. I’ve been waiting too long for this day to come.
At that thought, she caressed her face. I will never forget this grudge.
Chapter 404
He Must Not Take The Risk Again The next day, Kathleen received the results of the bone marrow compatibility test.
Leonard's bone marrow was not a matchwith Felicia’s, which was not surprising. After all, when it came to bone marrow, even biological parents were often not a match with their children. She then relayed the results to Kelly. "What should we do now?" Kelly felt terrible. Kathleen gazed at her coldly.
"You could consider explaining the truth to Leonard and have another child with him.
That way, you would have another chance at saving Felicia." Kelly bit her lip.
"I..." "It’s for your daughter! Is it really so hard to do that?" Kathleen furrowed her browsslightly. In fact, Kelly had spent the entire night thinking about it, too.
I’d do anything for my daughter! "All right, I’ll do it!" she declared.
Standing up, she set out to talkto Leonard. The moment she said that, however, the door of the ward was pushed open. Leonard came in, standing tall with a frosty expression on his handsome face. 'TH make a move first." Kathleen turned around. "What’s the test result?" Leonard gazed at her. "You’re not a match," answered Kathleen.
"I’m leaving." With that, she turned to leave. Looking at Kelly impassively, Leonard asked in a heavy tone, "So, what now?"
"I’m thinking of trying the othersuggestion given by Dr.
Johnson." Kelly lowered her head. "Do you have the man’s contact?" Leonard's voice was deep and hoarse.
"What?" Kelly was stunned.
"I meant your daughter's biological father.
You should have his contact, right? Aren't you still in love with him and unwilling to leave him?" Leonard's tone turnedicy as his eyes darkened. Kelly froze for a moment, pursing her lips.
After a brief pause, she stated, "Leonard, Felicia’s biological father is actually...
you."
Leonard froze when he heard that.
Kelly bit her lip.
"It's true.
Her blood type is Rh-negative, same as yours." Leonard merely gazed at her blankly. Tears rolled down Kelly's cheeks.
"Nothing ever went on between me and that man.
It was all just an act." Just an act? Leonard was overcome with confusion.
"Why would you do that?" Taking a deep breath, Kelly began to explain, "It's because of my family..."
With that, she told himthe truth about what really happened. Leonard said nothing for a long while. He was simply too shocked. Kelly waited for his response anxiously.
She had no idea what was going through his mind. "And you're telling me this now only because youwant to save Felicia’s life?" Leonard asked coldly. Kelly nodded unhesitatingly. "I understand now,” Leonard uttered through gritted teeth. With that said, he spun around and left. Kelly could not help but feel dumbfounded.
What does he understand? After leaving Felicia’s ward, Leonard thought for a moment and went straight to see Samuel.
Kathleenhappened to be changing the dressing on Samuel’s wrist. "Haven’t you ever heard of knocking?" Samuel asked disdainfully. "Go easy on him.
He’s probably just received the shock of his life,” Kathleen teased.
"What shock?" Samuel frowned deeply.
"Kelly's given birth to his daughter, whose name is Felicia.
Back then, Kelly didn’t leave him because she had an affair with another man but because ofreasons to do with her family," Kathleen explained simply. Samuel remained expressionless.
"Then why does he look so depressed?" Kathleen shot a quick glance at Leonard before explaining, "Needless to say, he must have asked Kelly ifshe was telling him the truth now only for the sake of saving Felicia, and she must have answered yes.
That should explain his gloomy state." Samuel finally understood.
"I see.
So, you're unhappy about the fact that Kelly told you about this because of her child and not because she loves you?" Leonard swallowed.
"Yes." "She’s already given birth to your daughter, and yet you care about such a trivial detail? If she didn't love you, then why would shehave chosen to have your child? Wouldn’t it be easier just to get an abortion?" Samuel scoffed. "And is it based on this line of reasoning that you believe Kathleen still has feelings for you, even though she lost her memories?” Leonard asked quietly. Samuel ignored him. "Leonard, there is no time to waste when it comes to treating Felicia’s condition.
I might be able to delay it for a while, but her body might not beable to bear it for long," Kathleen remarked as she dressed Samuel’s wound. Leonard nodded.
"I know that." "There’s another thing." Kathleen frowned as she continued, "You'd better not be foolish.
If you’re thinking of in vitro fertilization, you should know that the procedure would be very harsh on Kelly's body."
Leonard was shocked by her words.
"But Kathleen—" "I’m only telling you the truth, even if you don't like to hear it," Kathleen interrupted in an icytone. "That’s not what I mean." Leonard felt rather embarrassed. "I’m a doctor, and I’m just telling you the facts." Kathleen’s expression remained chilly.
"If there’s nothing else you want to understand, then go quickly and sort it out with Kelly.
She's distressed enough as it is because of Felicia.
Don’t make things any harder for her." "All right." With a nod, Leonard left the room.
Samuel gave Kathleen a long, meaningful look.
"You’re pretty good at giving advice, aren’t you?" "I was only laying out the facts for him so that they have less to think about.
Most importantly, I don't want to waste time.
Felicia is about Desi's age.
If what happened to her is happening to my own daughter, I would be beyond anxious.
How would I still have the time to wait for a man to dilly-dally? He reallyshouldn’t be giving Kelly anything more to worry about.” Samuel sat up straight.
"Kate, I promise I would never hold you back." "I’ll kick you if you dare do that," stated Kathleen, narrowing her eyes athim. "I’d never let you have any reason to do that.
I’m going to prove it to you." Samuel leaned closer to her.
"You'd better keep your word, then," Kathleen said with a scoff.
"Of course," Samuel confirmedwith a nod. "You should rest well and take care of your injury.
I’m carrying on with my work." Kathleen picked up her things and left the ward before Samuel could say anything else.
He gaped at herdisappearing figure speechlessly. What a cool woman! Later in the evening, Kathleen was treating a patient when her phone suddenly rang. Glancing at her phone screen, she saw that it was Wynnie calling and picked up the call. "Hello, Mrs.
Macari."
"Bad news, Kate.
Desi just disappeared! I just saw her playing in the courtyard before I left to get a drink of water.
But when I came back, she was no longer there!" Wynnie's panicked voice rang out on the phone.
Kathleen immediately stood up, grabbing her coat and car keys.
"Got it.
I’m off to search for her now." "Where would you be searching?" Wynnie asked anxiously.
"If Desi was kidnapped, the kidnapper would surely call either me or Samuel."
With that,Kathleen hung up and went off to Samuel’s ward at once. Samuel had received Wynnie’s call as well and was getting dressed, ready to leave the room. However, Kathleen pushed him back.
"I know you’re anxious, but you have to take your medication first, or you won't have time for that later."
She then handed him the medication.
Samuel frowned slightly,but he could not refuse to take it since it was Kathleen who was giving it to him. Thus, he quickly swallowed it and stood up to leave. However, all of a sudden, he was hit by a rush of vertigo. Kathleen instantly wrapped her arms around him, supporting him and helping him to lie down on the bed. "Kate..." Samuel uttered drowsily. "You shouldn’t move around too much, Samuel.
Get some rest here and wait for my news." Kathleen leaned her forehead against his.
Chapter 405
If I Could Turn Back Time The second Kathleen stepped out of the ward, her phone chimed.
She fished out the phone and glanced at the screen,only to find a virtual phone number. Tch! Trying to play games with me, huh? She instantly hit the answer key and put the phone near her ear.
"Your daughter is with me, Kathleen.
Come to the old campus where you attended high school if you want to see her alive.
You should know where that is." A machine-like voice sounded over the phone.
The other party ended the call abruptly rightafter finishing the sentence. At this, Kathleen descended into a moment of deep thought as silence ensued. Prior to that, the old campus of her previous high school had been emptied out. That place had already been put on the waiting list to be demolished and then rebuilt. How interesting for her to set our meeting there, of all places. Immediately, Kathleen made her way downstairs and drove off in her car. It was already the dead of night. The security guard at the front gate was seen crashing out as he sprawled on his desk. Tiptoeing toward the small door beside the front gate, Kathleen gently pushed it open and strode inside. Without deliberation, she made a beeline for the school building. Right then, her phone rang once more. She picked up the call right away and questioned, "Where are you?” "Why don't you make a guess?" An icy voice was heard on the other end of the line. Her eyebrows knitted to a knot of displeasure at that.
Scanning the vicinity, she marched toward the fourth floor of the building. Once she reached the fourth floor, she walked to a wasted classroom.
That very classroom was the one she hadbeen to during her final year. There Desiree was, lying on the floor right in the center of the classroom.
Her body was strapped with bombs. No one else could be found inside but her.
Kathleen rushed overto her daughter's side and carried the latter in her arms. "Desi," called out Kathleen softly.
"Mommy's here." Sadly, Desiree remained unconscious and unresponsive. Touching her daughter's body, Kathleen reckoned that Desiree must've been drugged with sedatives.
As she held Desiree in her arms,she tried to remove the bombs that had encircled her daughter's body. Alas, the bombs began to emit a series of beeping sounds. Kathleen was scared out of her wits and dared not continue her reckless act. At that juncture, the ringtone played from her phone. Tapping the answer button, she was all ready to listen to what the other party had to say. "Even if you've found your daughter, Kathleen, I doubt you could come up with an idea to rescue her!" That voice reeked of naught but coldness and sarcasm.
"You will both be blown into smithereens! Haha!" Kathleen took a deep breath.
"Nicolette, I didn't expect you to be so full of yourself despite everything that has happened." The laughter from theother end of the line ceased instantly on that note. Letting out a snort, Kathleen continued, "I've already caught sight of you when I picked Zion up at the port the other day.
Why on earth did you cover yourself up from head to toe? Were you that afraid of meseeing you?" Only silence came from the phone. "I didn't anticipate you to keep me waiting after your arrival in Jadeborough.
You nearly had me there for a moment with your inactivity," added Kathleen with sarcastic chuckles.
"I then realized that you're not idling at all.
Rather, you're busy acting out the role of someone else—Yareli!" The rhythm of breathing could be heard over the phone.
Kathleen went on, "It has already come to this.
You'd better show yourself!" A loud peal of thunder came from Nicolette's lips.
"Haha! Not bad, Kathleen! But you're too little, too late to see daylight.
You'll never get to defuse the bombs.
Besides, the detonator is in my hand.
A single tap from me will send you straight six feet under.
Don't fret, though.
That little bastard will join you." As Kathleen sensed that they were in peril of dying, hergaze turned as sharp as the razor.
"Do you think you can go on the lam after getting rid of me? Ha! You can never shake off Samuel’s pursuit!"
That statement onlymade Nicolette sneer.
"Why would I be responsible for Yareli's doings? She and Zachary will be the scapegoats! Anyway, it's time for you to kiss this world goodbye, Kathleen! I hateyou! Go to hell!" Those were Nicolette's final words before she pressed the button on the detonator. Boom! With the thunderous boom, the entire school building exploded into scraps. Even the windows of the nearby buildings were all shattered to shreds. That security guard who had been sitting at the guardhouse was also jolted to his senses. Pieces of glass were already scattered all over his body. At that point in time, Samuel finally arrived at the scene, only to catch sight of the roaring sea of flames engulfing the whole building. A parade of passersby surrounded the area in a matter of seconds, but no one was in the know about what had actually happened. Samuel's attractive face paled to a ghastly white. Am I too late? Oh, no! Tyson immediately stopped Samuel in his tracks.
"No! Don't go in there, Mr.
Macari!" If Kathleen and Desi were really goners, what would become of me?
At that thought, Samuel gushedout a mouthful of blood all of a sudden. Tyson recoiled in fright upon seeing that, screaming his lungs out, "Help! Send Mr.
Macari back at once!" There was no strength left in Samuel's body.
All he could do was fix his gaze on the fire as he was being taken away by his men. Kate! Desi! Oh, God.
How could you be so cruel to me? Punish me and take me instead! Why do this to them? Why? Samuel had a dream while hewas unconscious. In his dream, there Kathleen was in his sight. That Kathleen was very young and petite.
She appeared to have just arrived at the Macari residence. There were traces of tears on her cheeks, not to mention her beguiling appearancethat could move the hearts of anyone who saw her. Diana led Kathleen to Samuel and declared, "From now on, Samuel, Kate will be your sister.
Make sure to fulfill your duty as a big brother and treat her well."
An indescribable feeling crept up on Samuel as he laid eyes on his so-called sister. Despite that, henodded with an impassive countenance. Right then, the little girl called out to him in a mellow voice, "Nice to meet you, Sam.
I'm your sister, Kathleen." Samuel froze at that. That made sense, for he had always been the only child in the family.
Of course, they were others addressing him thesame, yet somehow, it was particularly sweet for him to hear that from Kathleen. His usual frosty visage seemed to be wavering as he gave her a nod in response. The other prestigious families, who were affiliated with the Macari family, were soon informed about the newest member of the Macari family, Kathleen. They all brought their children to pay the Macaris a visit. No matter how those people gave Kathleen a hard time, she put up with them and didn't make a fuss. At first, Samuel only watched from the sidelines. It was when one of the arrogant silver-spooned brats tried to lay a finger on Kathleen that Samuel went over to kick his butt out the door. In that instance, Samuel wasn't even eighteen, but he already had a sinister and menacing mien. The children from those wealthy families in Jadeborough were all very much terrified of him because of that. Tugging Kathleen to his side, Samuel announced in front of those brats, "She's my sister.
I'll hunt you down if any of you ever mess with her."
Hearing his threat, all of them scurried awayin fear. Kathleen, in turn, flashed Samuel a grateful grin. A thought flashed through Samuel's mind at that time. He even surprised himself when he realized that he had taken a liking to Kathleen. That would be logical, for hardly anyone could resist inclining their hearts to an obedient and gentle little girl like her. Even so, there was also a sense of gratitude in Samuel's heart toward Nicolette because, at that moment, he thought that it was Nicolette who had saved his life. In order to prevent the others from bullying Nicolette, he had no choice but to allow her to call him her boyfriend. In Samuel's mind, though, he, too, knew that he ought to not let Kathleen grow on him like that. Thus, he proclaimed, "I've always seen you as my dearest sister." The girl blinked her eyes at that.
Feelings of grievance, insecurity, and hurt were apparent on her delicate face.
It was as though Samuel was watchinghimself from the sidelines, reviewing every episode in the past. He was dying to tell his past self to own up to his true feelings from the depths of his heart. I have to confess to her right now and put an end to her suffering! Yet, he couldn't seem to utter a word no matter how hard he tried. He watched himself walking away. Kathleen was huddling in a corner, crying her eyes out. Witnessing the scene, Samuel felt a pang of misery in his chest.
Not even once had Kathleen attempted to do anything to sow the seeds of discord between him and Nicolette. Nicolette was the one who had insisted on getting married and gotten herself sent away by Diana. Samuel realized that he shouldn't have put the blame on Kathleen, for she was truly innocent of tying the knot with him. "K-Kate..." He struggled to mutter to himself.
"I'm sorry, Kate...
I was wrong.
I should've loved you with all my heart right from the beginning...
Chapter 406
Apprentice Samuel's hand hung in mid-air, and all of a sudden, he felt a warm andsoft hand holding his hand. At that very moment, his sorrowful heart calmed down almost immediately.
The agonizing pain faded away as well. "Samuel? Wake up.
It's me." Kathleen's voice rang out. Alas, there was no response from Samuel.
It was as if he had sunken into the darkness, allowing it to swallow him whole. Kathleen frowned as she tightened her gripon the man's hand.
"Samuel, it's me.
I'm Kathleen.
Desi and I are fine.
Open your eyes and take a look at US." Desiree's tearful voice was filled with concern.
"Daddy!" The others stood aside, wearing worried expressions. Kathleen examined Samuel's condition in puzzlement.
He may have vomited some blood, but that doesn't explain why he's unresponsive. Wynnie approached and explained,"Kate, Samuel had been like this before.
He slipped into a coma and only woke up after your brother left Eil and Desi in our care." Kathleen lookedat Samuel's pale face.
"Then what should we do now?" Even she had no idea what to do, as she didn't expect Samuel to be in this state.
Wynnie, who wasalso clueless, said, "All of US staying here isn't going to help much.
I'll bring Desi home first." "Thanks, Mrs.
Macari.
I'll take good care of Samuel," said Kathleen solemnly. "All right." Wynnie nodded and took Desiree's hand.
"Desi, honey, let's gohome, okay?" "Okay," replied Desiree obediently. After Wynnie left with Desiree, Kathleen looked at Samuel, who was lying unconscious, and placed her hand on his charming face. With sorrow in her tone, she said, "Why do you always torture yourself?" Samuel’s brows remained deeply furrowed.
It was unknown whether he could hear her or not. "Samuel, you have to wake up soon.
Or else, I would abandon you if you stay in a coma for too long.
Promise me you'll wake up soon.
You said you wanted to pursue me, right? I'm waiting for you.
I don't like this at all," she threatened. Still, he didn't give her any reaction, but the grimace on his face slowly disappeared.
Kathleen helped him pull the covers and gotup to leave the ward. At that moment, there was a man and a woman standing by the ward door. The man was Yadiel Gibson, and the woman was Rory Gibson.
They were siblings whom Charles had sent to help and protect Kathleen.
They were the ones who saved Kathleenand Desiree at the school earlier. "What did you guys find?” asked Kathleen coldly. "We found Yareli nearby.
She had passed out with a detonator in her hand," answered Yadiel.
Rory added, "Her fingerprints were the only ones found on the detonator, but she's nowunconscious.
The doctor has no idea what to do either." Kathleen frowned.
"She's not the one who wanted to kill me.
Nicolette is the one behind all this.
She's merely a scapegoat that Nicolette left at the scene." "But, there's no evidence that proves Nicolette was a part of this.
She didn't leave any traces behind," said Rory. Kathleen's expression was frosty.
"Someone must be helping her.
Moreover, I don't think she will carry out the plan without disguising herself." "All the current evidence proves that the culprit is Yareli.
What should we do, Ma'am?" Yadiel questioned. Kathleen paused for a while before saying indifferently, "You don'thave to call me that.
Just call me Dr.
Johnson."
"All right." Yadiel nodded.
Kathleen arched an eyebrow.
"Case closed for now.
Nicolette won't show herself if we're hot on her heels like this.
We can only wait until she lets down her guard." Yadiel and Rory exchanged glances before nodding.
"Yes, Dr.
Johnson."
"Send Samuel to Florinia Manor.
Zion and Yareli, too." Kathleen spoke in a low voice. "Roger that."
Kathleen thought that Florinia Manor wasthe best place for her to conceal her whereabouts and look after Samuel at the same time. Only a few people knew that she was still alive. Before Nicolette showed herself, Kathleen would stay away from public view so that the former wouldn't find out about her and become alert. Upon reaching Florinia Manor, Kathleen tucked Samuel into his bed. Subsequently, she lifted her head to look at the wedding photo hung over the bed headboard. The photo was taken at their wedding back then. She looked unhappy in the photo, and even Samuel's handsome face showed a tinge of hostility. The wedding photo was far from perfect.
Even so, Samuel still left it there instead of taking it down.
Won't his mood be affected when looking at it? I don't understand him. She went to get a hottowel and wiped Samuel's face and body. Knock.
Knock. Right then, she heard knocking sounds coming from outside the door.
"Come in," she said softly.
Zion, who had regained his ability to walk in the past two days, pushed the dooropen and entered. His condition was able to improve in such a short time because of Kathleen's treatment. "Kathleen, how is Samuel?" the young boy asked. Kathleen looked sideways at Samuel.
"He's still in a coma." Zion sighed.
"I feel for him.
Is it worth it to torture himself for the sake of a woman?"
Kathleen was speechless.
The boy continued with a placidtone, "I swear I wouldn't be like him in the future." "Be careful not to end up eating your own words," Kathleen reminded. "I'm sure I won't." Zion refused to believe that he would reduce himself to such a miserable state for a woman. However, in the future, he would eventually understand what it felt like to be madly in love with someone. Alas, he was now still too young and ignorant to understand that. "Do you need anything?" Kathleen asked. "Oh, nothing.
I'm just here to check on you guys," he answered. "You can be at ease here.
This place is much safer than my mansion." This was Florinia Manor, after all.
Apart from bodyguards thatguarded the place, there were surveillance cameras installed in every nook and cranny.
Absolute safety was guaranteed in the manor. After a few moments of hesitation, Zion asked, "Kathleen, do you have an apprentice?" She shook her head.
"No.
Why would I need an apprentice?" "Have you ever thought of accepting one?" he questioned again.
She furrowed her brows.
"Are you trying to say you want to learn from me?"
"Can I? I would love that." The boy straightened his back, showing his passion and earnestness. "You're still a kid.
You would still need to go to school after you get better.
When the time comes, you might have a lot more options to decide from." Kathleen didn't want to limit the boy's future.
"That's not a problem.
I can study and learn from you at the same time.
Think about it.
After you teach me your skills, I could become your assistant," said Zion seriously. "Are you really interested?" He nodded fervently.
"Yes! I want to become more capable so that I could protect myself and the people around me." Kathleen smiled.
"You may be young, but you sure are ambitious." "So, is that a yes?” Zion's eyes twinkled with excitement.
"Yes." She nodded.
He beamedhappily and asked, “Then how should I address you in the future? Do I call you 'Master' or do I call you by your name as usual?" "Whatever floats your boat." She didn't really mind. "I'll call you by your name then.
What should I start learning first?" he asked eagerly. "You can go ahead and take a walk outside first.
I'll come to you after I finish with everything here." "All right." With that, he turned and left the room.
Kathleen smiled to herself, amused at the thought of suddenly havingan apprentice. She then looked down at Samuel.
"See? My life is still filled with surprises even when you're in a coma.
Chapter 407
Tentative Still, there was reaction from Samuel. Kathleen sighed and poked his face with her finger. "You've fallen into a coma becauseyou thought I was dead, right? But now, I'm right in front of you.
Why won't you open your eyes and look at me?" He's such a headache!
She lost her patience soon.
"I'm ignoring you! I have a lot of things to do, and I don't have time to keep you company.
If you don't wake up soon, I'll leave you here, and you’ll be all alone!" After a few moments, she still received no response.
"Samuel, please wake up.
Let's fall into a deep slumber together after we die, but not now.
You have to wake up, okay?" Kathleen took his hand and pressed it against her face, her voice hoarse."
What should I do if you stay in a coma forever?
Samuel remainedmotionless.
The only noise that echoed in the room was his breathing.
She blinked her moist eyes and fumed, "D*mn you,Samuel.
I'm going to leave you here!" Upon finishing her sentence, she turned to leave and went to her bedroom.
Her things had just beenmoved into the room. She took two of her medical books before going to look for Zion, who had just returned from his walk around the manor. "Kathleen, this manor is huge.
I've been walking forever, yet I haven't even toured half of it." He wiped the sweaton his forehead. "You should take care of your health.
Don't think you're fine now and tire yourself out." Kathleen handed him the medical books and continued, "Read these two books and memorize the contents.
I'll give you a spot test a few days later.
If you fail to memorize the points, I won't accept you as my apprentice."
Zion held the books in his arms like theywere the most precious treasure in the world.
"Don't worry.
I have a sharp memory.
Just give me a week, and I'll memorize everything like the back of my hand." Kathleen chuckled.
"Stop bluffing.
A week? These two books may not look thick, but I bet you’d at least need a month."
"I'll prove it to you then!" Zion was determined.
"Fine," she replied indifferently. "Where are you going?" he asked curiously. "I'm going to check on Yareli." 'TII go with you!" He caught up with her. "Why are you tagging along?" She looked at him in surprise. "I want to watch how you treat patients." "I'm just like any other doctor.
The only thing different about me is that I excel at both traditional and modern medicine.
I'm not that impressive," she said wryly. Does he think I have a special way to treat my patients? As they talked, they reached Yareli’sward.
It was one of the rooms that was situated on the first floor.
Florinia Manor was huge, with around a dozen rooms on the first floor.
Thus, Kathleen transformed some of therooms on the first floor into her office and wards. Yareli lay motionless on her sickbed. Kathleen checked her pulse with a solemn expression before examining her eyes and body. Zion imitated her and felt Yareli's pulse, too. Kathleen lifted her eyebrow.
"Well? What do you think?"
"Her pulse is weak.
I can't feel anything at times," he uttered with a frown, unsure whether his observation wasaccurate or not. “That's a sign of poisoning." As she spoke, she took a scroll out and spread it open, revealing a row of silver needles. She took one of the silver needles and jabbed it in between the thumb and forefinger of Yareli's right hand. Moments later, a bulge appeared on Yareli's abdomen which began moving. When Zion saw that, he felt goosebumps all over his skin.
"What is that?"
"That's just a parasite.
Don't make a huge fuss." She glanced at him. "Oh.” He tried his best to stay calm.
Although he knew about parasites,that was the first time he ever saw one in real life. After Kathleen removed the silver needle, the bulge in Yareli's abdomen disappeared. Zion queried in shock, "Kathleen, is this the reason she remains unconscious?" "Yes.
I have to find a way to get rid of the parasitic worm." She nodded.
He asked curiously, "Is itchallenging?" "I don't know much about parasites.
I only learned some from Theodore when I was with him," she replied.
"Should we call Grandpa and ask him?"
Kathleen handed Zion her phone.
"You could try and see if the call goes through." He took the phone and dialed Theodore's number, only to find out that the number no longer existed.
Ashe listened to the robotic voice on the other end of the line stating that it was an invalid number, he was dumbfounded.
"What's going on?”
Kathleen took the phone from him.
"He disappeared, of course.
You didn't know, right? The entire Axeworth Corporation now belongs to Lauren." "Will Grandpa be fine?" He was worried.
She responded apathetically, "He's assly as a fox.
Why wouldn't he be fine? No news is good news.
Don't worry." "You don't seem to care about him at all," Zion said with a faint voice.
"Why should I care? Not only did he try to save you in exchangefor my daughter's life, but he also tried to kill me." She arched an eyebrow. A sheepish look appeared on Zion's face as he decided that he should just shut up. Kathleen took her phone and dialed another number. After two rings, an alluring voice sounded on the other end. "I didn't expect you to call me again.” Lauren's tone brought with it a hint of amusement. "I'm calling to congratulate you.
You've finally gotten what you wanted." Kathleen spoke coldly. "Hmph! Save all the hypocrisy." Lauren snorted.
"I'm curious, Lauren.
Why didn't you announce to the world after you've gotten Axeworth Corporation all to yourself?" Kathleen asked while wearing a half-smile.
"That'snone of your business!" Lauren replied furiously. "Let me guess.
All you got is an empty shell, right?" asked Kathleen tentatively.
Lauren merely snorted in response.
As she did not deny it, Kathleen knew that her guess was right.
"Were you theone who saved Nicolette? Did you give her the parasitic worm?" Kathleen went back to the main topic. Lauren was silent. "Lauren, you might not know much, but you excel in the field of parasitic worms.
On the other hand, Nicolette knows nothing about parasitic worms.
You were the one who gave her the parasitic worm so she could implant it in Yareli'sbody, right?" Lauren let out an evil chuckle.
"So what if I did? I'm in the business.
If you want to save Yareli, that's fine.
Give me money or something else I want, and I will give you the antidote."
"Did you forget about something, Lauren? Aperson can only be implanted with one kind of parasite in their body.
Nicolette implanted a parasitic worm in Yareli's body.
So, what about the female lovebug that was previously in her body? What is it really?" asked Kathleen with an unfathomable tone.
Laurenfell silent again. Kathleen continued, “The male and female lovebug are the most powerful parasites.
The other parasites are no match for them.
However, the parasite you gave Nicolette was able to overtake the female lovebug in Yareli's body.
Does that mean the female lovebug in Yareli’s body was a fake?" Beep.
Beep. Kathleen was speechless when she realized Lauren had hung up. Zion overheard the whole conversation.
"Is she embarrassed because you exposed her?" Kathleen put her phone away.
"Yeah." "I didn't expect the main reason you called her was to ask her about the female lovebug.
She thought you called her because you want to save Yareli," he uttered. Initially, he believed thatwas the case. Kathleen glanced at Yareli.
Chapter 408
What Did You Do Kathleen had never perceived herself as a compassionate person who would lend a hand to anyone who needed help.
At that moment,Rory came walking in. "Dr.
Johnson, I've done what you told me to." She spoke softly.
"Good job." Kathleen paused and asked, "Can you do me anotherfavor, Rory?” "Yes, of course." "Take a picture of Yareli in this unconscious state and share it on the internet.
I want to trick someone out of their hiding place,” said Kathleen indifferently.
"What do you mean?" Rory was quite surprised to hear that. Kathleen narrowedher eyes.
"I want to lure Vanessa, of course.
She's overseas, and I'm sure she has no idea what happened to Yareli.
She definitely knows how my mother was stolen back then, so I must capture her.
Yareli will act as bait."
Rory understood Kathleen’s intention.
"Don’t worry, Dr.
Johnson.
I'll post the photo on international platforms so she would see it." Kathleen nodded and touched her chin.
"Tell them to write the title like this, 'The former heiress of Yoeger Group, Yareli Yoeger, will be sentenced to death for themurder of the wife and daughter of Macari Group's CEO...................................... Roger
that." Rory took her phone out and snapped a photo of Yareli before leaving the room. Kathleen looked at Yareli emotionlessly and said, "It's surprising to know that Yareli, who had once triumphed over Nicolette, would end up in this state because of Nicolette." "What is Nicolette planning to do?” asked Zion. "She wants revenge.
She thinks someone else had caused her miserable situation, and not herself,” replied Kathleen, her voice devoid of emotion.
Zion noddedwordlessly. "Okay, let's go.
Nothing else to see here." "All right." The young boy followed her and exited the room.
After that, he said to her, "Kathleen, I’ll return to my room first.” "Go ahead.
I'll send someone to inform you when it's meal time.” "Okay." After Zion left, Kathleen turned to leave, too.
Meanwhile, Vanessa was on vacation overseas.
She wasn't worried, as she hadbeen in contact with Yareli for the past few days. However, she could no longer remain calm when she saw the news on the internet a few minutes ago. She tried calling her daughter, but to her dismay, the latter's phone was switched off. Is all of this real? Is Yareli really in trouble? But I've told her not to act recklessly so that Kathleen and the others won't be able to get the goods on her.
Why did she kill Kathleen and her daughter? Samuel would never let her off the hook! Vanessa was beside herself with worry when she still couldn't get intouch with Yareli. After moments of pondering, she called Zachary. Fortunately, the line went through, and Zachary's booming voice sounded from the other end of the line.
"Hello?"
"Zachary, it’s Vanessa.
What is going on? What happened to Yareli?" asked Vanessa in a low voice.
"You! The audacity of you to ask me this questioniBecause of the two of you, I can't even leave my house! People are guarding me every day and forbidding me to head outside.
They're even investigating me!” Vanessa froze when she heard that. Looks like everything on the news is true.
"What are you talking about? I've never asked Yareli to do something like that!" sheexclaimed anxiously. Zachary scoffed disdainfully.
"She came to me and asked me to team up with her.
Guess what? She even recorded the conversation.
Now that she's captured, the police found the voice recorder on her, and they think I’m her accomplice.
Are you're still saying she didn't do anything?" "Recording?" "Vanessa Yoeger, I'm telling you, you better come backright now and deal with all this mess.
Or else, I'll expose your transaction with the Hoover family and make your life a living hell.
I'm going to drag you down with me!" threatened Zachary angrily.
After that, he ended the call.
Vanessa frowned.
How did things turn out like this?
No! I can’t justsit here and do nothing.
I have to return and look into the matter myself. With that thought in mind, she took her phone out.
"Book me a flight to Jadeborough right now.
Hurry!" She knew that if she didn't return as soon as possible, the Yoeger family would be doomed.
However, at the same time, she was aware that if shereturned without making any preparations, there was no way she could defeat Kathleen and the others. Moreover, she had a lot of questions. Thus, she made another arrangement.
"Prepare a car for me first.
I need to go and meet Lauren." After hanging up on Kathleen, Lauren felt uneasy as well. Nicolette is such a nuisance!How could she implant a parasitic worm in Yareli's body? As she was unable to hold back her anger, she called Nicolette right away. "Are you crazy, Nicolette? I've told you not to implant a parasitic worm in someone who already has a parasitic worm in their body! Why won't you listen to me?" screamed Lauren into the phone as soon as the call connected. Nicolette replied apathetically, "Are you talking about Yareli? Theodore has already gone down, so what's the point of hiding this any longer? You should just tell everyone that I'm your partner and that the female lovebug is in my body.
Won't that solve everything?"
Lauren gritted her teeth.
"You! Don't you forget that Yareli has a mother! Vanessa has strong backing behind her, and she's not someone we should mess with."
Nicolette snorted.
"The person backing her won't necessarily be able to help her this time."
"What did you say?" Lauren frowned.
"That person isnow on my side.
Vanessa would surely contact you in a while.
I'm leaving the rest to you, Lauren," elucidated Nicolette. "What do you mean?" "Kill Vanessa.
She knows too much.
Just kill her, and the person backing her would help US.
Don't worry," Nicolette said meaningfully. "Are you sure?” Lauren was skeptical. "I've done so many things ever since I've gotten back.
Why won't you believe me? Kill her and let the Yoeger family be the scapegoat.
They will be blamed for Kathleen's death.
After that, we won't have to worry about anything." A cold and evil smile appeared on Nicolette's face.
Lauren asked, "How about Zachary? He'syour father." Nicolette chuckled.
"He doesn't think of me as his daughter at all.
I'll never let him off."
Her meaning was obvious.
Zachary had to die, too. "Okay then." Lauren understood that she and Nicolette were on the same boat, so they had to help each other.
Now that Theodorehad escaped back to the country, Nicolette was the only one who could get rid of him. Otherwise, Theodore would most definitely come looking for trouble once he was done recuperating and regathering his strength. Lauren's job, on the other hand, was to get rid of Vanessa for Nicolette. After ending the call, Lauren frowned and pondered for a while. Just then, the door was pushed open. Vanessa stormed into the room, her voice filled with anxiety.
"Lauren, what is wrong with the parasitic worm that you implanted in Yareli? Why hasn't Samuel fallen in love with her yet after so many years?”
Lauren turned tolook at her.
"How would I know?”
Vanessa widened her eyes in fury.
Chapter 409
Vanished Into Thin Air
“Go to Theodore if you don’t believe me!” Lauren said angrily, “He was the one who made me do it. It’s pointless for you to ask me!”
“Theodore?” Vanessa sneered. “No one knows where he went. How am I to ask him?”
“How can you not know where he went?” Lauren remarked sarcastically, “Weren’t you guys working very well together before?”
From her reply, Vanessa found a hint. “It’s you who was behind Theodore’s incident, isn’t it?”
Lauren smiled creepily. “You just found out? How else did the whole organization come into my hands?”
Hearing that, Vanessa gritted her teeth. “As I thought. You’re heartless and ambitious. You’ve wanted to do this for a long time, right?”
Lauren did not respond and simply stared at her.
From her reaction, Vanessa understood it all.
Lauren had no good intentions from the start. The female lovebug in Yareli’s body could be fake!
“What the hell did you do to my daughter?” Vanessa rushed over, intending to grab Lauren’s hair.
There was no way Lauren would allow Vanessa to hit her, so when the latter rushed over, she had already pulled out a dagger and aimed it at her stomach.
Vanessa wanted to avoid it, but Lauren grabbed her shoulder and viciously drove the dagger into the former’s stomach with all her might.
“Ugh!” Vanessa’s face twisted in pain.
Lauren sneered. “You lot should be dead long ago for hogging what belongs to us in the first place! You’re just as abominable as Theodore!”
With that, she pulled out the dagger and drove it in again.
Arms flailing in the air, Vanessa managed to grab a vase next to her.
Bang!
With all her strength, she smashed the vase onto Lauren’s head.
The latter was caught off guard and immediately fainted.
Vanessa could not care less about anything else. She clutched her injured abdomen, turned around, and staggered outside.
There was only one thought in her mind at that moment.
I want to live. I must survive. Yareli is still waiting for me to save her.
By the time Vanessa escaped from Lauren’s residence and ran out of the gate, she had run out of strength.
She looked around, hoping to see someone who could save her.
Just then, a white BMW drove over.
She immediately stretched out her hand, and the car stopped in front of her.
Clarissa got out of the car. She had never met Vanessa, so the two did not know one another.
She had only ever met Yareli.
However, due to her strong impression of the latter, she was reminded of something the moment she saw Vanessa.
“Save me…” Vanessa crawled to Clarissa’s feet. “I can give you money. I can give you anything as long as you can save me.”
After saying that, she passed out.
Clarissa crouched down and found out Vanessa was still alive after checking her breath.
“Do you think I lack money when I’m driving this kind of car?” she remarked flatly, mumbling to herself.
As the esteemed member of Blissful Sect, she was never short of money.
“Oh, whatever! You may be of no use to me, but perhaps you are for someone else.” Clarissa narrowed her eyes for a moment before getting Vanessa into the car.
She sent the latter to a hospital that she felt was more reliable for emergency treatment.
The medical service there was quite good, so the doctors managed to save Vanessa.
After confirming that the latter’s condition was all right, Clarissa went to look for Charles.
She sat in the car and called him. “Where are you, Charles?”
“Your house,” he replied in a low voice.
“My house?” Clarissa frowned. “Are my dad and brother causing you trouble again? Wait for me. I’ll go back now.”
With that, she ended the call.
Charles did not even get the chance to speak.
He solemnly placed his phone down and looked at Wilbur sitting across from him.
The latter had just returned from abroad, and beside him sat his newly-wed wife, Adina.
Adina was beautiful, with dark hair, deep eyes, a sharp nose, and alluring lips.
She was a royal princess and was said to also be a strong contender for the next royal heir.
Wilbur had obeyed Raymond’s arrangement to marry Adina to consolidate his position.
Since Adina also needed the help of the Blissful Sect, they mutually benefited from the marriage.
As for how much love there was, Charles did not know, and neither did he care about it.
“I heard that your sister is still alive,” Wilbur said with a half-smile.
“You’re not very well-informed.” Charles’ tone was cold.
Wilbur smiled meaningfully. “I meant the explosion.”
Charles kept quiet.
Wilbur is really much better informed with Adina’s help.
“Don’t worry. There’s nothing between your sister and me now.” Wilbur wrapped his arm around Adina’s shoulder and bragged, “I’m now better than Wyatt.”
Charles remained silent.
I’ve not heard from Wyatt for a long time. I wonder where he went.
Before the words left his mouth, Raymond came down from the second floor.
The three of them stood up.
“Sit, everyone.” Raymond looked tired.
“What’s wrong, Father?” Wilbur asked curiously.
Raymond let out a sigh as he sat on the couch. “What else but Wyatt? I don’t know where he is now. He seemed to have vanished into thin air.”
Vanished into thin air?
Wilbur narrowed his eyes. “He won’t die, anyway.”
Raymond’s expression was cold. “Charles, get your men to investigate within the country to see if he has returned.”
Charles remained calm.
Raymond mentioned using my men. It seems like he’s also testing me besides asking me to look for Wyatt.
“Okay.” Charles nodded graciously.
Hearing that, Raymond said solemnly, “Thank you. If there is any news, notify me immediately.”
“Will do.” Charles nodded in response.
Just then, Clarissa came into the living room from outside. “Dad, Wilbur, are you two giving Charles a hard time again?”
Raymond frowned. “What on earth are you talking about?”
“Have you ever seen us bullying him, Clarissa?” Wilbur asked thoughtfully, “What’s the matter? Are you afraid that he’ll suffer at our hands?”
Adina grinned. “Do you like Charles, Clarissa?”
“No!” Clarissa’s face instantly turned red.
She looked at Charles, who was on the side, with a flustered expression.
The latter looked back calmly. “I’m fine.”
Only then did Clarissa let out a sigh of relief. “Glad to hear that.”
Raymond furrowed his brows. “We merely asked Charles to look for Wyatt. Your brother is missing, and you’re not even anxious?”
“He’s a living person. How can I control where he wishes to go with his own two legs?” Clarissa continued coldly, “Besides, isn’t it clear to everyone why he doesn’t want to return to this house?”
If I had the means, I wouldn’t come back either.
Hearing that, Raymond frowned.
Clarissa blinked before adding, “Dad, since you say I don’t care enough about Wyatt, how about I follow Charles to Jadeborough and help look for him?”
Chapter 410
I Am Still A Girl
“I think you just want to go out and have fun,” Raymond remarked.
Clarissa sat down. “See? I want to look for him, but you’re saying I want to go out and have fun. I won’t go then.”
Raymond’s gaze swept over Charles and Clarissa before he said flatly, “Take Clarissa with you, Charles. After all, she should explore and get more exposure to the real world.”
“Okay.” Charles nodded.
Clarissa was overjoyed. “Can I really go?”
Raymond nodded in response.
Sweet!
“When are you planning to set off, Charles?” Clarissa looked at his handsome face.
“Tomorrow,” he replied.
“I’ll go get ready then!” Clarissa was looking forward to the trip to Jadeborough.
I’ve always stayed here and have never left. Of course, I’m looking forward to it now that I finally have the chance.
As Charles gave her a nod in response, she stood up. “I’ll go get ready now.”
With that, she turned around to head upstairs.
Raymond’s lips twitched. “I’ll have to trouble you then, Charles.”
Charles’s expression remained neutral. “It’s fine. I’ll take my leave now.”
After saying that, he also left.
“Dad, are you trying to…” Wilbur did not finish his words as he tried to guess his father’s intention.
Raymond said coldly, “In the future, Charles will live in Jadeborough long-term for sure. We need to have our people there, and if Clarissa marries him, we won’t need to send another person. Not to mention, Charles has Samuel as his brother-in-law.”
“Oh?” Wilbur narrowed his eyes. “Is Kathleen going to remarry Samuel?”
“I haven’t gotten the news yet, but isn’t that a natural thing?” Raymond said flatly, “Samuel will never let go of Kathleen in this life, so it’s only a matter of time before they get together again. Besides, they still have two children.”
Wilbur nodded in response while something flashed in Adina’s eyes.
After Raymond had gone upstairs to rest, she put her arm around Wilbur’s. “Your father is really interesting.”
He narrowed his eyes. “How so?”
“There’s no way you didn’t notice your sister’s ambition, right, Wilbur?” Adina uttered coolly.
Wilbur remained impassive.
“You can’t just be wary of Wyatt anymore. There’s also Clarissa. Your father never said that Blissful Sect cannot be passed on to his daughter,” she reminded him.
He smirked. “She’s just a little girl. Why are you afraid of her?”
Adina got up and said lightly, “In any case, if you don’t take it seriously now, don’t blame me for not reminding you when she has her own power and can challenge you within the sect.”
Wilbur’s gaze turned cold.
If Clarissa truly has that in mind, I’ll nip it in the bud!
A touch of coldness appeared on Clarissa’s face when she heard Wilbur and Adina’s conversation from her position on the second floor.
Thinking of killing me? Dream on! Then again, I have something important to tell Charles. Gosh, I’m so careless!
She immediately went back to her room and called him.
At that moment, Charles was on his way back.
“What’s up?” he asked indifferently.
“Can you pick me up an hour earlier tomorrow, Charles? I have something very important to tell you,” she said cautiously.
“Mm, got it,” he said with a nod.
“Okay. I’ll wait for you!” Clarissa hung up the phone and went to get ready.
While driving alone, a trace of coldness surfaced on Charles’ handsome and devilish face.
He had no issue with Clarissa. On the contrary, she had helped him a lot over the years, both openly and secretly.
It’s just that Raymond’s intention is as clear as day. Everyone knows what he’s thinking. However, I only like Clarissa as a sister, nothing romantic. I don’t want to hurt her, so I should find an opportunity to talk to her tomorrow.
The next day, Charles came to pick up Clarissa an hour earlier.
She looked pretty, wearing a pink-colored dress with her long dark hair tied into a ponytail and a bow of the same color pinned to her hair.
She walked over to him with a smile. “We can go now.”
Charles noticed she was carrying a yellow suitcase that was only thirteen inches and lifted his eyebrow. “Is this all?”
“Yes.” Clarissa showed him the bank card in her hand. “Don’t worry. I can buy stuff when we get there.”
“All right then.” He helped her lift the suitcase into the car.
They then entered the car and started their journey.
“Where will I be staying when we get there, Charles?” Clarissa asked curiously, “If you haven’t made any arrangements, I can get someone to rent a house for me in advance. I don’t want to stay in a hotel.”
“You’ll stay at my house.” Charles explained, “Your father told me to take good care of you, and I’m not comfortable with you living outside.”
“Okay.” Clarissa nodded. “As long as I’m not troubling you.”
“You’re very sensible and have never given me any trouble,” he replied flatly.
Hearing that, she grinned. “I also think that I’m quite sensible.”
Charles smirked at her response. “What is it that you wish to tell me?”
At his prompt, Clarissa suddenly remembered it. “Let’s go to the hospital first.”
Hospital?
Despite his confusion, he changed his route and took her straight there.
Upon reaching the hospital, Clarissa led him to an intensive care unit.
“Look, Charles. I picked up a big fish.” She pointed at Vanessa, who was lying on the bed.
Charles’ brows twisted into a deep frown. “Where did you meet her?”
“Near Lauren’s house. I was going to look for Lauren when I spotted her midway. She was seriously injured at that time and stopped my car. I thought of Yareli as soon as I saw her, so I brought her back.” Despite not knowing who the woman was, Clarissa knew that she was related to Yareli.
He regarded her with a meaningful look. “She is Yareli’s mother, Vanessa. She knows a lot of secrets. Kate and I have been looking for her, but we couldn’t seem to find her.”
Clarissa narrowed her eyes. “It seems I’m quite lucky.”
“Thank you.” Charles continued with a frown, “But we can’t leave her here. We must take her away as soon as possible.”
“Okay.” She nodded.
“Let me make a call.” He then went out with his phone.
He stood in the hallway and gave some instructions while glancing into the ward.
Clarissa obediently stood by the hospital bed, waiting for him to return.
Charles pulled his lips into a thin line. “Make it quick.”
With that, he hung up the phone and went back inside.
“How is it?” she asked with concern.
“It has been arranged.” Charles’s voice was slightly lower. “Clarissa.”
“Yes?” She threw him a sideways glance.
Slowly, he said, “Actually, your father—”
“I’ve said it before, Charles. I only think of you as a brother. My dad is my dad. His thoughts don’t represent mine,” Clarissa said seriously.
Charles nodded lightly. “This I know. I just don’t want to hurt you.”
“You already did. You ask as though you’re disgusted with me. Even though I only like you as a brother, I’m still a girl,” she said bitterly.