Ch. 191..200

Chapter 191 It Was Not a Hallucination

"Sir, here's your red wine." After speaking, the flight attendant suddenly caught sight of Ruby standing next to Adrian and her face changed. After placing the glass of red wine in front of Adrian, she immediately apologized to him.

"I'm sorry, sir. Did this child bother you? I'll take her away right away." After speaking, the flight attendant smiled at the child. "Sweetie, I'm sorry just now. I forgot about you. Shall we go back to our seats?"

Ruby glanced at her, and then looked at Adrian. Adrian pursed his lips, feeling a bit reluctant. But a child was, after all, a child and had no reservations, so after hearing the flight attendant's words, she obediently nodded and turned to wave at Adrian.

"Uncle, it was nice meeting you today. I'll go now."

Adrian nodded and replied in a low voice, "Yes, I'm glad I met you too."

Even though he was reluctant, she was someone else's child after all, and Adrian could only watch as the flight attendant led her away. After the little girl left, Adrian found that his restless heart had calmed down quite a bit.

He wasn't as easily angered or annoyed as he was when he first boarded the plane. He didn't even feel like drinking the glass of wine in front of him. He already had a stomach condition and couldn't drink alcohol. It was just a momentary impulse earlier.

So Adrian didn't touch the wine and his thoughts were taken away by the little girl. He always felt a strange feeling towards her. Previously, Adrian didn't think of himself as someone who enjoyed the company of children, but now, he couldn't deny that this little girl had touched him in some way.

People love children.

But now... Adrian suppressed the urge to get up and greet them.

Obviously, they must be a family, not just the two kids.

Both the father and mother of the children would be there. What should he say if he rashly went up to greet them? Should he say, "I watch your kids' livestreams, and I'm NightA"? Just the thought of that scene was too much for Adrian to bear. He pursed his lips and leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes. Forget it. Let's wait and see. Maybe she will pass by here later. Or perhaps they will meet during the plane landing.

If they happen to run into each other, it won't seem so strange.

When Ruby returned, she immediately told her twin brother, Dylan, about what had happened earlier.

The two little ones gathered together and whispered to each other.

David watched them from the side and couldn't help but sigh, feeling lonely.

He also wanted a cute little one to whisper with him.

After a while, David had no choice but to check on Eva.

He found that she was still sleeping deeply, and he felt relieved.

During the journey back home, however long the flight was, Eva slept almost the entire time.

When it was time to prepare for landing, Eva woke up for a moment. Although she knew she should get up, her body's fatigue made her consciousness hazy, and she soon fell back asleep.

Because the first-class passengers had privileges, the flight attendant came over after the plane had come to a stop.

David had already packed up everything, but he noticed that Eva was still asleep. So after the flight attendant arrived, he said, "Sorry, let others go first. We'll be the last ones."

The flight attendant nodded, understandingly.

"Sure."

Eva was still sleeping, David didn't leave, and Ruby and Dylan naturally stayed in their seats, waiting.

Adrian sat alone in his seat, staring ahead, his thin lips tightly pressed together.

The plane had been stopped for a long time, but those two little ones hadn't appeared.

After the girl left, Adrian immediately thought of the child he had seen in the restroom, wearing the same clothes as the girl. He had helped the child open the door because it seemed difficult for them, and received a thank you from the child afterwards.

When he heard that voice at the time, he felt like it was Dylan's voice.

But the little one disappeared too quickly, making him think he had imagined it.

Meeting the girl on the plane made Adrian realize that the "thank you, Uncle" in the restroom was not a figment of his imagination, but real.

So after thinking it through, Adrian really wanted to meet those two little ones together.

If they stood in front of him wearing identical clothes, they would look like they had walked out of the livestream.

But Adrian waited for a long time, and there was still no movement ahead.

It wasn't until his assistant, Jacob, came to find him. "Mr. Blackwood? We should get off the plane."

Adrian asked, "... Have all the people behind gone off?"

"Yep." Jacob nodded and said matter-of-factly, "Everyone has gotten off. You've been sitting here for a while."

Is it because you're afraid of economy class, so you want to spend more time in first class? Jacob didn't dare to ask, nor did he dare to speak.

When Adrian didn't respond, Jacob had no choice but to ask again, "Mr. Blackwood?"

Adrian snapped out of his thoughts and gave him a cold glance. Jacob mustered up the courage to say, "We have to get off the plane; our partners have been waiting for us for a long time." "One minute," Adrian said.

"Huh?" Jacob made a puzzled sound.

"We'll leave in one minute."

If the two little ones still haven't appeared after another minute, he would leave.

"Alright..." Jacob couldn't say anything else and could only stand in place, accompanying him while waiting.

In his heart, he thought he couldn't book the wrong seats again next time. Mr. Blackwood now had a psychological shadow; he actually preferred to sit in first class and not get off the plane. One minute passed quickly, and the plane remained quiet. Adrian stood up, and his tall figure instantly made the space feel oppressive. Unwilling to give up, unwilling to give in. Adrian took steps forward, wanting to go and see what happened to those two children, why hadn't they come over? Logically, since everyone had left, they should have gotten off too. Just as he took two steps forward, Jacob stopped him and said, "Mr. Blackwood, wrong way, the exit is this way."

Adrian sometimes really wanted to smack Jacob, who was more of a hindrance than a help. How could he have agreed to let his cousin replace Brent after he resigned?

"Sir." In the midst of his thoughts, the flight attendant also came over. Though he didn't say it outright, it was clear he was asking them to get off the plane.

"Mr. Blackwood, let's go. We can't linger on the plane anymore; you're considered a public figure now, after all." After speaking, Jacob mustered the courage to drag Adrian away.

"Have a pleasant journey and goodbye." Adrian was forcefully pulled off the plane by Jacob, his face soured, and his voice turned icy as he glared at him.

"Let go." Once Jacob realized, he immediately let go, then put on a smiley face. "I'm sorry, Mr. Blackwood. I didn't mean to touch you. I was just a little impatient just now..."

After finishing, Jacob anxiously wiped his sweat. Adrian didn't like it when someone touched him without his consent. Who knows what would happen next second, Adrian walked past him with a cold face as if nothing had happened just now.

 

 

Chapter 192 Where Did You Hear That?

When Eva was woken up, there was only their group left on the entire plane. After getting off the plane, she felt embarrassed and rubbed her forehead, saying, "Why didn't you wake me up earlier?" Waking up to find herself alone on the plane, with everyone waiting for her. She could even see the captain watching her as she left. This awkward situation...

"I don't want to experience it again."

"I thought you weren't feeling well, so I thought I'd let you sleep a little longer. Besides, everyone else needs time to get off the plane too."

"Yeah, Mommy, you're not feeling well." Ruby agreed, and Dylan nodded in agreement, clearly supporting David.

Otherwise, they wouldn't have obediently waited with David.

Seeing them like this, Eva continued to rub her temples and decided not to say anything more about it.

Although it was embarrassing, it had already happened after all.

And she had to admit, she had a satisfying sleep on this trip and felt quite comfortable upon waking up.

Her phone vibrated, and Eva took it out to glance at it before answering with a smile.

"Lisa."

"Oh my goodness, your phone finally went through. I found out that your flight has landed from this end, but your phone was off the whole time. I was so worried, my dear."

Lisa George was a friend Eva met after going abroad, and she had a good relationship with her and Emily.

Lisa returned to the country a year ago and began studying airport management.

Lisa was the daughter of a boss at an airline, her father being a local and her mother being Norwegian, making her a mixed ethnicity.

"I'm sorry, Lisa, I forgot to turn my phone on."

"It's okay. Where are you now? I'll have someone pick you up."

Eva paused for a moment, intending to look around, but then heard Lisa scream, "My friend says she sees you. Just stay where you are, my friend will come pick you up right away." Eva stood still in place, and soon she saw an airport staff member in uniform running towards her.

"Hello, are you Eva? I'm Lisa's friend, here to pick you up on her behalf."

"Hello." Eva smiled at her and shook her hand.

"Then please follow me."

Everyone followed her pace.

"Mr. Blackwood, how much longer do we have to wait here?"

Although the JT Group received Adrian's message, the car had not left.

Because Adrian asked them to wait at the exit, without mentioning why.

After all, the JT representative was here to pick up someone important. If the important person spoke, they naturally wouldn't dare to resist and could only park the car and wait. Jacob noticed that Adrian's gaze was fixed on the exit.

If before, in the first class cabin, Jacob thought Adrian had some reservations about economy class, now he didn't think so anymore.

Because at this moment, Adrian seemed to be waiting for someone.

Suddenly, Jacob had a flash of insight.

Could it be that something happened when Mr. Blackwood was alone in the first class cabin earlier?

Thinking about this, Jacob looked at Adrian. Although he was cold and his expression wasn't obvious, the way he kept staring at the exit had a hint of anticipation.

"Mr. Blackwood." Jacob leaned towards at a short distance from Adrian, Jacob asked cautiously, "Did you have a romantic encounter on the plane?"

Giving Jacob a look as if he were dumb, Adrian's lips moved slightly. "Your brain is useless; you could donate it."

"If it's not, then it's not, why curse at me?" Jacob replied, feeling a bit wronged.

But even though he felt aggrieved, Jacob was still very curious. "If you didn't have a romantic encounter, why did you stay on the plane for so long and even wait at the exit?" In response, Adrian simply replied, "Mind your own business."

Alright, it seemed like nothing had happened.

Jacob could only accompany him and continue waiting in their seats.

After a while, the staff from The JT received a phone call, probably because there had been no movement here for quite some time, prompting them to inquire.

The staff member answered the call quietly and, after hanging up, cautiously looked back at Adrian, their lips moving as if they wanted to speak but held back. However, in the end, they dared not say anything and turned their heads back.

After a few more minutes, Adrian suddenly turned back and coldly said, "Let's go." They had waited for so long; it seemed that they wouldn't wait any longer today.

Perhaps fate had only allowed him to catch a glimpse of the young girl on the plane.

"Can we go now?" The driver seemed a bit surprised but didn't dare say anything more and immediately started the car.

Although they were leaving, everyone inside the car could feel that the temperature had dropped significantly, as if they were in an icy cave.

They drove with great trepidation all the way.

Upon arriving at their destination and dropping Adrian off the car, the driver and the passenger in the front seat glanced at each other, then let out a sigh of relief. "We finally got him here. Let's leave quickly so that we won't get caught up in anything later."

And so, the car sped away.

Adrian had just entered the lobby when the newly appointed successor of the JT Group, Henry Davis, approached him to greet him.

"Mr. Blackwood, it's been a while."

Henry had recently taken up the position as the successor of the JT Group and had successfully secured a cooperative intention with the Blackwood family. The people who had previously underestimated him no longer dared to underestimate him. Adrian glanced at him, expressionless, nodded, and shook his hand.

If it were someone else, they would find his attitude too casual, but Henry didn't mind. After having a riding experience with Adrian, he had long grown accustomed to his demeanor. He smiled and said, "Welcome, please come in."

"So, how was your trip abroad? I heard there are many beauties over there. Did you have any romantic encounters?" This was the second time today that Adrian heard this word.

He gave the person a side-eye.

"Are you here to discuss collaboration with me or something else?"

Upon hearing this, Henry's expression slightly changed.

"Of course, collaboration comes first. However, I also wanted to chat about other things, to put your mind at ease."

"Relax, don't be angry, don't be angry. Speaking of which, the competent assistant I wanted to find this time is a talented girl who went to your country. I heard that she was interested in returning to the country for development. I originally wanted to win her over to my company, but unfortunately, she rejected." Adrian was not interested in discussing women with him at all.

Seeing Adrian's reaction, Henry smiled and said, "Forget it, it seems like I can't talk about women with you. Other than Vivian, you can't fit any other women in your eyes, right?"

Hearing this, Adrian paused for a moment, then dangerously narrowed his eyes. "Where did you hear this?"

Not knowing which words hit Adrian's bottom line, Henry stood still and asked, "What's wrong?"

 

Chapter 193 Wish For Nothing

"What do you mean? Where did you hear this?" Henry couldn't understand why this statement could make Adrian angry.

For a moment, he didn't know if Adrian was angry because he disagreed with this statement or because someone mentioned his Vivian.

After a moment, he had no choice but to carefully choose his words. "It's just rumors, they are just joking. Don't take it too seriously."

"Rumors?" Adrian stared at him coldly. "If it's just rumors, why bring it up in front of me? What's the matter? Is the heir of the Davis Group still so gossipy?"

With this remark, Henry didn't dare to bring up anything else, and could only quickly apologize. "Adrian, I was wrong, I shouldn't have gossiped about your affairs. It's my fault for being meddlesome. How can I make it up to you?" Adrian didn't say anything more, but his previous temper clearly indicated that Henry should never casually talk about his gossip in front of him again.

After sending Adrian to the resting room, Henry breathed a sigh of relief.

"You can rest here for a while. I'll go out and come back soon."

Adrian closed his eyes and leaned back on the sofa, paying no attention.

Because he had made Adrian angry just now, Henry knew he was in the wrong and didn't dare to complain.

However, as soon as he left the resting room, his assistant shamelessly said, "Mr. Davis, Adrian is really too much. Even though the Blackwood family business is powerful, he can't treat you like this, right? After all, you are the newly appointed heir of the JT Group."

Henry glanced at his assistant and said, "So, you also know that I am the newly appointed heir? Then how do you think he should treat me? Should he bow his head to me as well?"

Upon hearing this, the assistant touched his own nose and said, "I didn't mean that. I just think he's too arrogant."

"That's because he has the capital to be arrogant. When I can sit in his position someday, I will be even more arrogant than him, you understand?" Assistant: "...Alright."

"You looked so confident. Why didn't you say that when we were inside? Why didn't you dare to point at Mr. Blackwood's nose and talk to me?" "What's the use?" Upon hearing this, the assistant replied in a sulking tone, "If I don't say it, it's because I'm afraid of adding trouble for you."

"So, you know that these words would cause me trouble? Do you also know that walls have ears? Remember, as my assistant, the first thing you should understand is what to say and what not to say. If there are things you shouldn't say in public, don't even mention them in private. Got it?"

Though feeling displeased, the assistant knew that Henry was speaking the truth and could only nod. "Understood."

"By the way, how did your contact with Emily go? Did she manage to convince Eva?"

When this matter was mentioned, the assistant's expression became even more unpleasant.

"Mr. Davis, I suggest you not bring this up. Initially, her friend agreed to help us persuade Eva, but later for some unknown reason, she regretted it and told us not to call her again."

Upon hearing this, Henry looked puzzled. "Could it be that we offered her too low of a reward?"

"It's impossible. The reward we offered her is a tempting price that anyone would be attracted to. There are others who can't afford it, let alone match it."

"If even a high price cannot entice her, it seems we need to think of other ways." Henry supported his chin with his hand and appeared to be deep in thought.

The assistant suddenly came up with an idea and suggested with brightened eyes, "Mr. Davis, if you really need this talent, why don't you make a sacrifice?"

Upon hearing this, Henry squinted. "What do you mean? Are you suggesting that I seduce her?"

"After all, you've just taken office, and if you want to cultivate your own talent, you have to prioritize the overall situation." The assistant chuckled.

"Get lost! Can you stop giving me lousy ideas?" Henry laughed and scolded.

"Mr. Davis, I'm serious. Ms. Hansen is not only beautiful but also very capable. There are more people pursuing her than those who want to hire her." The assistant tried to persuade Henry. Henry had only heard of her name and had not yet met her in person.

But he knew his assistant was speaking the truth.

However, sacrificing himself physically was out of the question.

Henry would never give up the whole forest for a single tree. Being bound by a woman or only liking one woman was something he dared not even consider. "Think of another way, increase the reward by approaching her friend again." "Okay, Mr. Davis." The assistant could only comply.

Forest Villa, located in the best area of Chicago, was a European-style retro estate purchased by the city's largest real estate developer. The entire estate, from the flowing architecture to the flowers and green plants, was designed according to history. Not to mention the classic antique-like house.

"I heard that the boss of the real estate company has a dream to live like an ancient person, with so much money that he can't spend it all. So, he specifically had this place built in order to fulfill that dream. But after it was completed, it unexpectedly became quite popular, and many young people moved in."

Eva rolled down the car window and surveyed the surroundings.

Well, it really does have an old-fashioned charm.

If it weren't for her sitting in a modern car, she could almost believe she had traveled back in time.

In contemporary means of transportation, Eva couldn't help but think that the time and space had somehow become tangled.

"I heard that this location is very valuable. When we bought it in the beginning, it was already skyrocketing in price. It wasn't easy to create something like this. So, what's the price now?"

Lisa shook her head in frustration.

"The location is indeed valuable, but as for this house..."

Hearing this, Eva showed a puzzled expression. "What's wrong?"

"The owner refuses to sell; it's currently only available for rent." Eva paused, not expecting the owner to not sell. However, for this Villa with a historical feel, if there is a market for renting, it could indeed earn more money than selling it. "The owner's intention is to say that if they were to sell, then there will certainly be middlemen who would purchase it and then rent it out at a higher price. If that's the case, then it's better for the owner to rent it out themselves, saving those who love it from spending extra money."

"I see, so the owner is a good person," Eva suddenly realized.

"That's right, I thought all businessmen were only interested in making profits."

As they spoke, smiles appeared on their lips simultaneously.

"It's not easy for you to return to the country. This time, I've rented it for you for a whole two years to keep you here. Don't blame me for not renting it for a longer time. The maximum length here is only two years; if it's any longer, it won't be available."

Upon hearing this, Eva realized something. "And the price? The rent must be expensive, you..."

"Don't even think about giving the money back to me. I won't listen to that. I rented it for myself to live in, it's just that the house is too big and living alone is too lonely. So, I invited you to live together. Why would you need to pay any rent?" Eva grasped the key point. "So, you mean, you want to live together with us?"

"Of course, after reuniting as a sisterhood, of course we should live together. You wouldn't disagree, right?"

"Of course not, I couldn't ask for more," Eva was overjoyed.

 

 

Chapter 194 Discovering a Crush

Since leaving Adrian, Eva discovered that her life was surprisingly more enjoyable than before.

In the past, because of her marriage, the sisters rarely spent time together.

But after her divorce, Lisa and Emily would often come over to see her. The three of them were carefree, just like three children, talking, stargazing, and whispering secrets while lying on a bed. Eva often listened to Lisa and Emily discussing which man was handsome, one on the left and one on the right.

David helped bring the luggage upstairs.

The house was duplex, and there was also an observation balcony upstairs, adorned with flowers and plants.

Because of the abundance of vegetation, the house had considerately installed mosquito nets on all the windowsills, and many insect repellent sachets were placed there.

As soon as Eva entered the house, she fell in love with the surroundings.

Originally, she had worried that she would have to spend time looking for a house after returning, considering the location, but she didn't expect that Lisa had already found one for her.

Moreover, she didn't even have to bother cleaning the room, as Lisa had arranged for someone to clean it a few days before she returned.

Even her room was filled with her favorite fragrance and green plants.

David secretly glanced at Eva's reaction, then quietly went out and sent a message to Michael on his phone.

"Mr. Cooper, there's something I need to report to you. The house you prepared for Ms. Hansen in advance is no longer needed. We ran into Ms. Hansen's friend at the airport, and her friend has already rented a house for her." After sending the message, David couldn't help but look at the house in front of him.

It's really nice. Much more thoughtful than Mr. Cooper's house.

Although Mr. Cooper's preparation was complete, even the name of the house was Eva's. The location of the house were also arranged by professionals.

But... it's true that it doesn't compare to her best friend's creativity.

Fortunately, it lost to a woman. If it were a male best friend, Mr. Cooper's position would be in danger.

After a while, Michael replied to him.

"Lisa?"

David: "Yes, Mr. Cooper."

Sure enough, Michael replied calmly, "That's fine then. Lisa is quite meticulous. See if there's anything you can help with."

"Okay, Mr. Cooper." Putting away his phone, David continued to help with the arrangements.

After finishing the arrangements, Lisa said to David, "David, you came to help at Michael's request, right? I heard that you took care of the three of them all the way. You've worked hard." Upon hearing this, David quickly waved his hand.

"No, I actually didn't do anything."

Helping was just a facade. In reality, the three of them didn't need him to take care of anything. After all, once they boarded the plane, Eva slept all the way, and the two children were well-behaved. It seemed like he didn't do anything except for pushing their luggage.

"David, you're too polite. You've helped a lot and yet you say you didn't do anything. The journey was long, you must be tired, right? There's nothing we can help with here, so why don't you go back and rest?"

Upon hearing this, David instinctively looked at Eva and sought her opinion with his eyes.

In response to his gaze, Eva nodded. "David, you should go back and rest."

After thinking for a moment, David nodded. "Alright, the auction will be tomorrow night. Ms. Hansen, don't forget to prepare. If you need anything, give me a call and I'll come right away."

"Okay, thank you." Afterwards, Eva had the two children bid farewell to David.

After David left, Lisa took Eva to the observation deck on the second floor and made a pot of jasmine tea.

The strong fragrance of jasmine filled the air, carrying with it a warm steam.

Lisa used to be a heavy drinker, but now she was drinking jasmine tea.

Eva couldn't help teasing her, "I thought you would take out a few bottles of alcohol and toast me on the balcony."

Upon hearing this, Lisa paused for a moment, then laughed, "Alcohol? It's not suitable to drink in this kind of setting. It would ruin the ambiance, both in terms of smell and appearance. And most importantly, I've quit drinking. I won't drink anymore."

"Self-discipline, huh? You weren't like this before. You used to be..."

"Who can drink the most?"

Mentioning Lisa, she was filled with bitterness: "Don't even mention it. I got stomach disease, and the doctor forbade me from drinking anymore. I'm afraid of dying, and suddenly I find the taste of jasmine tea quite good." Upon hearing that her friend had stomach disease, Eva became worried. "What happened?"

Lisa pursed her lips, showing that she didn't want to talk.

After a while, she hesitantly said, "Actually, I have fallen for a man. I met a handsome guy at the bar. You have no idea about his charm and appearance. If I could marry him, I would consider my life perfect."

Eva hurriedly asked, "Wait, how does this relate to your stomach disease?"

"It's a big deal." Lisa sighed, dejectedly saying, "He can drink a lot, and I can't keep up with him. But I want him to notice me, so I started training my alcohol tolerance, and that's why..."

Hearing this, Eva instantly understood. She felt helpless and didn't expect Lisa to harm herself for a man. "Are you being silly?"

After feeling helpless, Eva rubbed her head. "Who exercises their alcohol tolerance to impress a man?"

Upon hearing this, Lisa chuckled. "Eva, do you think I am being foolish? But I really like him. The moment I saw him, I knew he was the one for me in this lifetime."

As Lisa talked about that man, her eyes filled with infinite yearning. She held her chin and began to reminisce, "The first time I saw him, he was sitting there, with piercing eyes and his fringe covering his forehead, making his facial features appear particularly profound. I was captivated by him at first sight."

Although Eva didn't know what the man looked like, based on Lisa's description, he must be incredibly good-looking.

After all, Lisa had seen all kinds of men during her time abroad.

To still praise someone so highly after encountering so many men, he must truly be exceptional.

"But even if you are captivated by his appearance, what about his character? His background? Do you know anything about him?"

"I don't know, that's why I am trying my best to get close to him. Unfortunately, he is too aloof and doesn't give me a chance to understand him."

Hearing this, Eva was slightly surprised. After all, with Lisa's beauty and excellence, most men would be infatuated with her.

"Are you obsessed with him because he ignores you?"

"Not at all!" Lisa gritted her teeth. "If he was willing to notice me, I would treat him exceptionally well. Eva, you really don't know how handsome he is. I even secretly took his photo, let me show you."

 

 

Chapter 195 Concerning Her Emotional Issues

Saying that, Lisa smiled as she took out her phone.

Eva's face lit up with indulgence. "Alright, let me have a peek for our dear Lisa and see if this man is worthy of you."

However, when Lisa opened her photo album and searched for a while, she couldn't find it.

"Weird, I clearly took a photo last time, even though it wasn't very clear from the distance, but the atmosphere was really something. Eva, the aura he exudes..." "Surely he's not an ordinary person," Eva confirmed.

As a result, Eva waited for a long time, but Lisa still couldn't find it.

"Where are my photos? I worked so hard to take a picture of my idol. How could they disappear?"

Seeing her distressed, Eva grabbed her hand. "Alright, forget about it. Once you catch him, you can take as many pictures as you want."

Upon hearing this, Lisa's eyes filled with sadness. "Who knows when I'll be able to catch him. That photo of mine was taken sneakily from a distance. Even though that man was sitting and drinking, he was still highly alert. Damn it, when I took the photo, he caught me looking, and I forgot to press the shutter button."

The thought of missing such an important opportunity made Lisa feel regretful. "Besides, he doesn't appear often. I've actually seen him very few times."

Eva suggested, "If that's the case, next time you see him, try asking for his contact information. Be bold."

"Do you think I haven't tried? He completely ignores me."

Hearing this, Eva concluded that the man Lisa had set her sights on was probably very aloof.

"I noticed he seems to have something on his mind. His silhouette appears so desolate while drinking, making one feel pity," Eva thought to herself.

Eva couldn't help but think, people always look at the ones they love through rose-tinted glasses. Even having a drink could make someone feel pitiful.

"How about this," Lisa suddenly took hold of Eva's arm, smiling slyly. "Come with me tonight. I've been waiting for him for half a month, but he hasn't appeared. You've always been my lucky charm. Maybe if you accompany me, I'll finally see him."

"I won't go," Eva immediately refused her proposal without hesitation. "I have to stay at home with Ruby and Dylan."

Lisa pleaded with Eva, acting cute. "They're both so well-behaved. Just let them stay at home while you accompany me for an hour or two. If you're really worried about them, you can call David to come and watch over them."

"But you just sent David back to rest. Are you suggesting he should take another taxi to come back and watch my kids right after resting for a short while?"

"So what? He works for Michael. Isn't he at your beck and call? Anyway, sooner or later, you'll be his."

Eva's expression changed at the mention of that last sentence. "Lisa, don't say things like that in the future."

"It was just a joke. I don't understand you. Michael has so many good qualities. How can you not like him? I feel like he's already committed to you for this lifetime. It's been so long, and you still don't have any feelings?" Lisa quickly tried to pacify Eva.

Eva didn't know how to explain this matter to her good friend. She could only sigh helplessly and say, "In any case, don't joke about this anymore."

"Alright, no more jokes. So, are you going to accompany me or not?"

"I'm not going." Eva turned and walked away.

Lisa immediately caught up with her, clinging to her arm. "Come on, come on, accompany me."

Passing by the room, Dylan happened to come out. Lisa then...

Immediately, Ma turned and said, "Dylan, quickly help me persuade your mommy to come out and play with me tonight."

Upon hearing this, Dylan raised his little head.

Lisa had been bothering Eva to go out, but at the sight of Dylan's lifted gaze, she was instantly captivated by his adorable face and couldn't resist becoming a funny aunt. "Come here, little darling. Give me a kiss."

In the evening, while Eva was cooking, Lisa changed into different clothes, intending to help out in the kitchen.

As she passed by the living room, she glanced inside.

Inadvertently, she caught sight of Dylan sitting in front of the coffee table and abruptly halted her steps.

The night was about to fall, and outside the window, the dusk had arrived, casting its radiant light upon Dylan's exquisitely three-dimensional profile.

The young boy sat there, earnestly reviewing his schoolwork, with a maturity and aloofness beyond his years on his childish face.

Lisa stood there, looking at Dylan in disbelief, her face revealing an incredulous expression.

Had she gone crazy from not seeing that man from the bar for so long?

She actually saw traces of that man in Dylan.

A few seconds later, Lisa rubbed her eyes in disbelief.

"It must be because of lack of sleep, lack of sleep, that I would have such hallucinations."

Having said that, Lisa composed herself and turned to the kitchen to help Eva.

However, once in the kitchen, Lisa's mind still wandered, thinking about the scene she just witnessed in the living room.

Why did the profile still give her that feeling? How could it resemble him so much?

While washing vegetables, Lisa couldn't help but inquire out of curiosity, "Eva, can I ask you an offensive question?"

Upon hearing that, Eva paused her cooking and turned her head to look at Lisa with a somewhat helpless expression. "Is it about Michael again?"

Lisa immediately denied, "No, no, it's not. What I want to ask has nothing to do with Michael."

Since it had nothing to do with Michael...

"Then go ahead and ask."

Just stop being concerned about her romantic life all the time.

"Really?" Lisa still had some worries, "Can I really ask anything?"

"Yeah." As long as it wasn't about Michael, Eva had been on the brink of exploding from being asked about him all the time.

Before leaving, even her own father asked about her and Michael, wondering when she would open up to him. Something along the lines of how Michael had been waiting for her for so many years.

She wasn't in the mood to listen to that, so she packed her things and went back to her room to sleep.

Everyone knew that Michael treated her well, so they all assumed they were together.

That kind of assumption made Eva uncomfortable.

Nothing should be taken for granted, especially when it comes to feelings.

So she didn't like it when others assumed she should be with Michael just because he treated her well.

"You can ask, as long as it doesn't involve Michael, I'll answer you."

"Fine, then I'll really say it." Lisa could tell that Eva was currently bothered only by matters related to Michael, not anything else.

It seemed that she didn't care.

Now she could ask without any worries.

However, when thinking about her own question, Lisa took a deep breath and said, "I actually wanted to ask a long time ago, but I was always afraid of offending you or bringing up something painful. But now it seems like you don't mind, so I'll just say it..."

Upon hearing this, Eva already had a ominous feeling.

However, before she could interrupt, she heard Lisa ask, "Actually, I wanted to ask about Dylan and Ruby's father..."

 

Chapter 196 Fooling Oneself

"He's dead."

The two words hit Lisa without warning.

Lisa hadn't even finished asking her question.

She stood frozen in place, looking at Eva with a mix of shock and disbelief.

Eva raised her gaze and calmly asked, "What's the matter?"

"Dead, he's dead??" Lisa never expected this answer. After repeating it, she instantly felt awkward and self-blaming.

How could she still repeat what someone just deceased said and touch their sore spot??

Oh my god.

Lisa immediately regretted it, feeling extremely guilty. She should have asked about Michael instead.

She would have asked why Eva didn't mention the past and why Emily would always hesitate to talk about it, only sighing and saying, "It's her sad story, you shouldn't ask."

Now Lisa finally understood why Emily said it was Eva's sad story.

Finally, she also understood why Eva lived alone with the two children.

"Yes, I'm sorry!!" Realizing what had happened, Lisa immediately bowed to Eva and apologized. "Eva, I'm sorry... I really didn't know. If I had known, I wouldn't have asked you like that." So Lisa apologized to Eva for a long time and felt very remorseful, making Eva unsure of how to respond.

When she said "dead," it was meant to end anyone's curiosity about the children's father.

It wasn't that she didn't trust her friend Lisa, but she had already put some things away and didn't want to bring them up easily.

But if she had known that Lisa would be scared like this, she might have used a gentler approach.

In the end, Lisa blamed herself to the point that she didn't even mention going to the bar again.

After a long day of flying and with her period, Eva still felt exhausted, so she went to bed early that night.

When she woke up the next day, Lisa eagerly said to her, "Eva, guess who I ran into at the bar last night?" Hearing that, Eva instinctively furrowed her brow.

"But didn't you go to bed early last night?"

They even said goodnight to each other, so why did Lisa go to the bar with Adrian?

Lisa laughed happily, "I saw that you weren't feeling well, so I went alone."

"So, did you meet someone?" Eva asked curiously.

"Yes." Lisa smiled as she brought up what happened last night.

Lisa looked sweetly at her and said, "It wasn't in vain that I waited for him for such a long time. Finally, I got to see him. I knew you were my lucky goddess. My luck arrived with you."

"So, have you made a move on him?" Lisa's excited face instantly turned disappointed. "No.... Last night, he seemed really down and drank a lot, so much so that he ended up passed out on the bar counter. I was thinking of taking this opportunity to approach him, but then his friend came over."

Upon hearing this, Eva's expression became thoughtful.

Eva understood that adults in modern society face immense pressure, and occasionally having a drink to relieve stress is understandable. However, according to Lisa, this man frequently goes out to get drunk, sometimes even to the point of unconsciousness.

To be honest, Eva didn't hold this kind of man in high regard. Is running to a bar and getting drunk the solution whenever they encounter a setback that feels like life or death?

Nevertheless, seeing Lisa deeply immersed in love, Eva ultimately chose not to say anything.

In a hotel suite,

The blackout curtains were pulled open, instantly filling the room with brightness.

The glaring light shone upon the handsome face on the large bed.

The person who had been lying there like a corpse finally showed a slight reaction. He furrowed his brows and opened his eyes.

"Awake?" A clear male voice came from the sofa.

Adrian, who had just woken up, took only a few seconds to identify the owner of the voice, John.

The glaring light made him uncomfortably close his eyes again, and he remained motionless on the bed.

However, John knew that he was awake. Seeing that he was unwilling to acknowledge him, John continued on his own, "How long do you plan to keep this up?"

The person on the bed ignored him.

John seemed to have already guessed that he wouldn't get a response. He didn't even wait for one. He finished speaking and moved on to the next sentence, "The doctor must have told you that you can no longer drink, right?" The person on the bed still didn't utter a word.

John, usually mild-tempered, couldn't help but scoff. "Or are you planning to drink yourself to death, leaving your parents to mourn for you?"

After finishing his words, John remained silent, sitting there and waiting.

After a while, the person on the bed finally got up and expressionlessly went into the bathroom.

Watching him, emotionless and unresponsive, John was at a loss for words. Ever since Eva left with Michael five years ago, Adrian had turned into this ghostly existence.

It's not like he was despairing. On the contrary, he excelled in his work even more than before. The Blackwood family business was now in a position practically unchallenged by anyone.

But all of this was because Adrian treated himself like a machine.

Apart from work, it was drinking.

No more participation in any recreational activities, less sleep, and even stomach problems.

At first, Adrian could still get drunk, but as time went by, alcohol sometimes couldn't even numb him.

John could tell that he wasn't seeking revenge or anything of the sort. He was just doing things that allowed him to escape reality.

Thinking of this, John got up and walked to the front of the bathroom, knocking on the door. "Don't forget about the charity auction tonight."

There was no response from inside. After thinking for a moment, John decided to say, "Vivian is here. You got drunk last night, and I answered the phone for you. She'll come to find you when you wake up. I've conveyed the message, but I have something else to do, so I'll leave first."

After finishing his words, John picked up his coat and left the hotel.

Once he was gone, the sound of water echoed in the bathroom.

Adrian, who had gotten drunk last night, could only take a shower at this time.

By the time he finished washing, it had been half an hour, and his phone started ringing.

Adrian glanced at it and saw Vivian's name on the caller ID.

He pursed his thin lips, remembering what John had said. After a moment, he turned around, grabbed a towel, and dried his hair, ignoring the call.

The phone continued to ring, but Adrian didn't pick up.

After about ten minutes, the doorbell of the hotel room rang.

Adrian opened the door expressionlessly.

Vivian stood outside holding her phone, and she looked a little surprised when she saw him.

"Adrian, I thought you were still sleeping. Why didn't you answer my call?"

Adrian gave her a quick glance and said coldly, "I didn't hear it."

With that, he turned and walked into the hotel, and Vivian, holding her phone, stood awkwardly for a while before following him inside.

Although she knew she shouldn't say it, Vivian couldn't help but speak up, "I thought...you didn't want to answer my calls at all."

 

 

Chapter 197 I'm Willing to Wait for You

But even if she said that, Adrian, unlike before, didn't explain tenderly after learning that she had been wronged. He stood there indifferently, looking at her with a calm gaze. Until his stare made Vivian feel uncomfortable all over.

Vivian had to change the subject herself.

"I was just joking. How could you not want to answer my calls? Where's John? When I called you last night, he told me that you got drunk. Are you okay? Do you have a headache?" However, after she said so much, Adrian only replied with two words, "I'm fine."

Then he turned and entered the bedroom to put on a shirt.

Vivian stood in place, watching his calm figure, feeling extremely uncomfortable in her heart.

Since Adrian divorced Eva five years ago and Eva left the country, she had vanished from the face of the earth.

Vivian was surprised that she would actually keep her promise, but at the same time, she hoped that Adrian would marry her soon after his divorce.

But before she could even rejoice, Adrian seemed to have changed entirely.

He found her and said, "I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I can't fulfill my promise."

Vivian was stunned in place.

For a long time, she managed to maintain a smile.

"Why? Is it because of the kidnapping incident? Do you still suspect that I orchestrated it? Adrian, I am a bit envious that Eva can be by your side, but when I'm not around, she can take care of you on my behalf. I'm grateful to her." "No one can replace you."

"What?" Vivian was in a terrible mood.

"Vivian, she wasn't taking care of me on your behalf. We weren't together back then."

Hearing this, Vivian's face turned pale, and she staggered.

"Vivian, you risked your life to save me. I will always remember that. If you ever have any difficulties in the future..."

Before he could finish his sentence, Vivian couldn't hold back.

"Adrian, what do you mean by all this? Don't you want me anymore? Didn't we agree that once I returned, you would divorce her and be with me? Why has it turned out like this?" However hysterical she became, Adrian remained calmly seated.

His gaze was calm, his expression was calm, and he didn't even have any unnecessary physical movements. He was calm to the point of almost indifference.

Finally, he just apologized and left.

Vivian went mad. She went to find him several times afterwards, but whenever she mentioned their relationship, Adrian would either refuse to see her or simply get up and leave. After a long time, Vivian realized that she couldn't go on like this and had to change her strategy.

"It was my fault before. I know you haven't sorted out your feelings yet, Adrian. Don't worry, I'm willing to wait for you, until the day you are willing to accept me." When she said these words, Vivian truly meant them.

After all, she thought that Adrian couldn't temporarily accept Eva's departure, which was why he briefly fell into the situation she created.

If she just gave him some time, he would come out of it, and they would be together.

So she was willing to wait.

But she never expected this wait to be five years.

Five years...

It seemed like just a number, but it was her five years.

Vivian watched as her age kept increasing, the high-quality men who pursued her had even started their own families, while she was still waiting.

She had thought about giving up countless times, but after waiting for so long, how could she just give up? She couldn't bear it.

And the most hopeful thing was that even though Adrian wasn't with her, he didn't have any other women by his side.

As long as she was willing to wait, plus the gratitude of being a life-saver, he would eventually be moved by her.

In these years, she even managed to move Margaret, who initially didn't want to accept her and treated her with only the kindness due to a life-saver, nothing more.

Over time, she hadn't managed to move Adrian, but she had moved Adrian's parents.

For example, this auction, Margaret happened to be interested in one of the items, so she managed to get two invitations for them to attend.

Vivian knew that Margaret was creating an opportunity for her and Adrian.

With this in mind, Vivian approached the bedroom door and knocked, but she didn't dare to enter. She just stood at the doorway and said, "Adrian, will you go to the auction tonight?"

Adrian expressionlessly fastened his white shirt, pausing at the words. He really didn't want to go, but thinking about what his mother wanted, Adrian reluctantly decided to put on a facade of filial service. "Understood," he replied coldly.

Relieved to hear that he was willing to go, Vivian standing at the door let out a sigh. Thankfully, he agreed to accompany her.

"Alright, I'll come find you later. I'll go back and prepare my dress first."

Vivian finally wore a sweet smile on her lips, knowing they would attend the auction together. Persistence paid off.

Once Vivian returned home, she hastily called for a stylist to design the most glamorous look for herself. By evening, she was wearing high heels almost fifteen centimeters tall as she went to find Adrian.

This charity auction was organized by The JT in order to secure their position. Henry had put in a lot of effort for this event, and many high-level individuals attended after hearing the news.

The highlight of the night was a mysterious surprise, which even attracted esteemed archaeologists to the venue.

When Vivian got out of the car, she almost lost her balance in the high heels. So, she waited for Adrian to get out of the car before planning to hold his hand. But Adrian, whether intentionally or unintentionally, walked forward in a way that avoided her touch.

Vivian almost tripped, and a couple of low laughter could be heard from around her. She changed her expression and glanced towards the source of the laughter. They were all wealthy young ladies who occasionally interacted with her, but they didn't have a good relationship.

Vivian bit her lip. She knew exactly what they were laughing at - mocking her for chasing after Adrian.

Damn it, if it were in the past... she wouldn't have to endure this kind of humiliation.

Unfortunately, now Vivian felt insignificant in front of Adrian, and she didn't dare to make requests. So, she could only follow behind him. After walking for a while, she suddenly regretted why she wore such high-heeled shoes. Wasn't she just making things difficult for herself? Lost in her thoughts, she noticed the person in front had stopped. Vivian approached in confusion.

"Adrian?"

Adrian stared expressionlessly at her. "You know you can't walk in high heels. Don't choose such tall shoes next time."

Embarrassed, Vivian forced a smile. "The stylist picked them. I wasn't really aware."

"Still able to walk?" he asked.

Vivian pondered for a moment before replying, "I find it a bit difficult."

She actually wanted to say, "Can you lend me a hand?"

But unexpectedly, Adrian said, "If you can't walk, have the driver take you back or change into another pair of shoes."

 

 

Chapter 198 The Power to Manage Finances

Vivian didn't expect Adrian to consider sending her away. Thick blood coated her lips.

The color faded as she subconsciously shook her head.

"No, I don't want to go back. I finally had the chance to accompany you here, Adrian... It's been a long time since I last went out with you. Please don't ask me to leave, okay?"

Her eyes reddened on the spot as she looked at Adrian with a pitiful expression.

Adrian stared at her expressionlessly.

"I understand that being saved by me has always made you feel pressured, but now, can you try to forget the fact that I am your benefactor? I'm just an ordinary girl who wants to pursue you, okay?" When she said these words, she used a certain tone.

On the surface, she was asking Adrian not to treat her as a benefactor, but in reality, she was reminding and implying to herself that she was his benefactor.

She didn't intentionally play the emotional card.

It's just that now, she had nothing left except for this last ace.

If she couldn't even play this card, she really didn't know what to do.

Fortunately, Adrian had always been grateful and appreciative towards this matter. He stared at her coldly for a moment before his elbow moved slightly. "Let this be an exception."

Upon hearing this, Vivian nearly hugged his hand in tears. "Thank you, Adrian."

Indeed, no matter how much time had passed, as long as she mentioned saving him, he would always soften.

Of course, in Adrian's heart, if it weren't for her, he might not still be in this world.

His second chance at life was given by her.

If he couldn't soften his heart for this matter, then what else would he soften his heart for?

Vivian held Adrian's arm and glanced at the few girls who had just made fun of her, then raised her head and walked inside with her chin up.

After she left, the girls who had just mocked her and was shown up by her gathered together and rolled their eyes.

"Look at how smug she is. If we didn't know any better, we'd think she's marrying Adrian tomorrow."

"It's been five years of pursuing, and there hasn't been any progress. I really don't understand why she's so proud."

"If it weren't for the fact that she saved Adrian's life back then, why would anyone from the Blackwood family bother with her?"

"What do you think happened between her and Eva back then? She divorced and left, is she really willing to lose to Vivian like that?"

"If she lost in the fight, then why doesn't Vivian even have a girlfriend now?"

At this point, everyone fell silent. No one knew the truth behind their emotional entanglements.

They were curious too, but after so many years, there were all kinds of speculations, but no one knew the real story.

Adrian's arrival caused a great sensation as soon as he entered the venue.

In fact, his presence even changed everyone's perception of Henry.

This young master of the Davis family could really afford to invite him. Adrian hasn't publicly attended any events in a long time.

As soon as Adrian arrived, he naturally became the guest of honor, and the best seat was reserved for him.

Vivian sat beside him.

Feeling the gazes from the surrounding people, she halted her thoughts.

The charity auction hasn't started yet, but it is already drizzling outside. Eva and David are still on their way when they see the raindrops on the window and instinctively say, "What's up with this weather? Yesterday's weather forecast didn't mention rain today."

The driver in the front row, upon hearing this, chuckles and responds, "It's a rainy season, and it rains whenever it wants. Weather forecasts sometimes aren't that accurate."

"Do you have an umbrella?" Eva, sitting in the backseat with the two children, asks.

David shakes his head. "No, I didn't expect it to rain today."

Eva glances around and makes a decision. "There seems to be a 24-hour convenience store up ahead. Can the driver pull over?"

At first, it was just a drizzle, but as time went on, it turned into a heavy downpour. The visibility on the road was low, so they arrived at the venue late. There were very few people at the venue. David takes out the invitation letter, and the attitude of the people at the entrance instantly becomes respectful. "Please follow us."

Eva is attending this charity auction on behalf of Michael, so her status naturally entitles her to a place in the VIP area. The staff intends to lead Eva and David to the VIP section. However, because they arrived late and the auction has already started, they would have to walk in front of everyone. Eva thinks for a moment and directly tells the receptionist, "Let's just sit in the back row."

Upon hearing this, the receptionist's expression changes. "How can that be?"

Eva smiles softly. "It's okay, we're late, and sitting in the back won't affect our bidding."

That's what she said, but if they were to sit in the back row after being treated as VIPs, it would be disastrous if something went wrong. "Let's go."

Eva already starts walking towards the back row, and David has no choice but to follow. The receptionist doesn't say anything further and quickly goes to report to the event staff. Once Eva and David are seated, the first item has already been auctioned off. After sitting down, David hands Eva the auction catalog. After browsing through it, Eva says, "The item Michael wants isn't among these items."

David nods. "Yes, that item should be saved for the grand finale."

"The grand finale..." Eva ponders, "It seems Mr. Cooper is going to spend a lot of money tonight."

"Don't worry, Ms. Hansen. For Mr. Cooper, this amount of money is nothing."

Eva doesn't respond. She knows very well that Michael can afford it. This amount of money is insignificant to him, just like when ordinary people buy gifts for their elders. "I wish I could spend money like him someday," Eva casually sighs. In fact, what she's thinking is that once her own company is established, she will strive to make it bigger and stronger in the future.

Perhaps she might have such an opportunity as well? Although she may not be as wealthy as Mr. Michael, after all, the foundation of the Mo family is undeniable.

But it would be enough for herself and her two children to splurge. Who knew David would suddenly interject with a smile, whether intentional or not.

"Ms. Hansen, is it not simple to spend money like Mr. Cooper? Just marry Mr. Cooper and become the President's wife."

The relaxed atmosphere suddenly became tense because of David's words. David realized he misspoke, but the atmosphere was too awkward.

He attempted to salvage the situation: "Since Mr. Cooper likes Ms. Hansen so much, he will definitely entrust the financial power to her."

It would have been better if he hadn't tried to salvage it, as the atmosphere instantly became even more eerie.

 

Chapter 199 Wanting to Please Her

Eva did not respond to his words. After about ten seconds, David awkwardly touched his nose. Perhaps he had been too relaxed during their conversation, which caused him to speak those words casually.

Just thinking about what he had just said, David regretted it. Fortunately, a few minutes later, Eva broke the awkwardness and silence on her own. "David, please bid on the next item for me."

"The next one?" David immediately flipped open his notebook and saw that the next item was a translucent bracelet.

"Ms. Hansen likes this?" David clearly hadn't prepared in advance.

After all, he had never heard of Eva liking jade accessories before. But luckily, Mr. Cooper had instructed him beforehand that if Eva took a liking to something during the process, he should help her bid on it, no matter the price, and charge it to his account.

Eva smiled without saying a word.

"Alright, I understand."

When the next item came up, David nervously sat up straight, as if the next auction item was the grand finale of tonight's event.

Seeing his composed appearance, Eva reminded him, "Don't bid yet, wait for everyone else to make their bids first." David nodded vigorously.

The bidding in the room was incessant. Soon, the price of the jade bracelet was raised to 30 million dollars.

As the bidding reached 35 million dollars, there were only two bidders left. Eva glanced at David and signaled that he could stop.

David nodded and was about to raise his paddle and shout out the bid. "40 million dollars."

Suddenly, someone in the VIP area ahead of David made a bid before him. David had also planned to bid 40 million dollars, but someone had beaten him to it. After thinking for a moment, influenced by his time spent with Michael, he boldly continued with his bid.

"45 million dollars." Even before Eva, who was sitting beside him, could speak, he made the bid. Her lips moved slightly as she saw David's determined manner. She pondered for a moment and fell silent.

Vivian had just finished bidding when unexpectedly someone else continued the bidding. In fact, she hadn't planned to bid on anything today, but after coming in with Adrian, she noticed many people glancing in this direction. She couldn't miss this rare opportunity to shine in front of Adrian, so how could she let it slip away? Besides, as long as it was a competitive item, Adrian wouldn't say anything to her.

With this in mind, Vivian glanced over at Adrian. He was looking down, casually playing with his phone, seemingly uninterested in her bidding at all. Vivian breathed a sigh of relief. If he didn't react, it meant he didn't mind. T hinking this, Vivian eased her mind and continued bidding.

"45 million dollars. Miss Morrison has bid 45.5 million dollars. Looks like she is determined to win this jade bracelet tonight."

When Eva heard Miss Morrison's name, she paused and looked towards the VIP area. However, the VIP area was separate, and she couldn't see anything from her position.

45.5 million dollars had already exceeded her psychological limit.

She tapped David on the shoulder. "No need to bid anymore, David."

Hearing this, David looked at her in surprise. "Ms. Hansen, you don't want it anymore? You finally found something you liked."

"It's beyond my price range, no need." Her initial psychological limit was within 40 million dollars.

If she couldn't get it within that range, she would give it to someone else.

"But..." David hesitated and said, "Mr. Cooper instructed me that if you found something you liked, no matter how much it cost, we should acquire it."

Eva was about to say that she didn't need to treat his words like a royal decree when she saw David raise his paddle again. "50 million dollars."

50 million dollars might not be a significant amount for a big family, but Vivian didn't expect someone would compete with her up to this price for the jade bracelet, especially since she was here with Adrian.

At least out of respect for him, the people present wouldn't try to outbid her. But it seemed that she was still being underestimated. Realizing this, Vivian bit her lip and said, "55 million dollars."

David immediately followed. "60 million dollars."

Eva thought to herself, she was wrong. She shouldn't have shown that she liked this item.

Murmurs spread through the audience. They probably didn't expect a jade bracelet to elicit such high bids. Now that it had reached 60 million dollars, Vivian could only bite her lip and continue raising her paddle. "65 million dollars."

David was about to raise his paddle again when Eva grabbed his hand to stop him.

"That's enough, David."

"But Ms. Hansen, Mr. Cooper instructed..."

Eva calmly looked at him. "I'm no longer interested in this bracelet. Are you sure you want to bid on something I don't like?"

"Can you give me something nice to cheer me up?" Upon hearing this, David was taken aback.

Although she wanted to please Eva on behalf of Mr. Cooper, the situation now was different. Michael was not around, and if he insisted and ended up offending Eva, it would do more harm than good.

After careful consideration, David decided to give up. "Alright, Ms. Hansen. But if you find something else later, be sure to let me know."

Eva pursed her lips and nodded. However, David felt that even if she found something else, she wouldn't show it anymore.

David thought, It was unexpectedly difficult to please a woman, and he wondered how Mr. Cooper had managed it all these years.

Vivian bought the jade bracelet for 65 million US dollars.

The hushed whispers around her made her hold her head high. With a price tag of 65 million US dollars, she had already grabbed the limelight today.

Tomorrow, everyone would know that she had accompanied Adrian to the charity auction and purchased the jade bracelet for 65 million US dollars. Although it was her bid, the media would surely spin it as Adrian gifting it to her. Such attention was advantageous for the Morrison family as well. The auction continued with the bidding of other items.

The organizers of this auction knew how to build up the excitement. Just as everyone's enthusiasm was waning, they brought out another exquisite piece. As a result, the excitement in the venue not only didn't fade away but intensified. The anticipation for the grand finale item began. David flipped through the notebook in his hand and said, "There are two more items left."

Eva finally understood what he meant and asked, "Are they conservatively valued?"

David nodded solemnly. "Initially, they were conservatively estimated at six billion dollars, but..." He scanned the venue. "There are too many people here today. That estimate probably won't hold, we'll have to raise it."

Eva also turned her gaze around. Many people sat up straight, clearly prepared for this. She nodded in understanding. "After all, it's a unique item, rare indeed."

 

 

Chapter 200 Quite Capable

Vivian flipped through the catalog and carefully approached Adrian, reminding him, "Adrian, what Aunt Margaret wanted is about to come up." "Hmm," Adrian coldly responded. His gaze was still fixed on his phone.

Vivian pursed her lips. He had been looking at his phone ever since he sat down, and because of his strong purpose, he showed no interest in the items on stage before the grand finale.

But even if he had no interest, he wasn't someone who played with his phone all the time before. And what exactly was he looking at? What was so fascinating? With these thoughts, Vivian's gaze shifted to his phone screen. Upon seeing it, her eyes widened.

Vivian was somewhat stunned.

Two children??

Adrian is looking at two children?

Did she see it wrong?

But before Vivian could take a second glance, Adrian's phone screen went black.

Immediately after, she was met with Adrian's indifferent gaze.

"What are you looking at?"

Vivian snapped back to reality and subconsciously shook her head, "Nothing, I just wanted to remind you."

"Got it." Adrian put away his phone, no longer distracted, and looked straight ahead.

Seeing this, Vivian straightened her posture as well.

She couldn't understand why, but she felt something was off.

When would Adrian ever look at photos of children on his phone?

There had never been such things on his phone before.

Not to mention, how could he be interested in children after becoming such a workaholic over the years?

In the blink of an eye, Vivian thought about the scene she had just witnessed. Her face turned pale, and the color rapidly faded from her lips.

If she hadn't seen it wrong, the child in that photo seemed somewhat similar to Adrian.

Although over the years, due to Adrian's drunkenness, many women had set their sights on him, hoping to engage in relationships with him under the guise of getting drunk and then bear his children. Some even went as far as getting plastic surgery for the children.

Vivian didn't even know where these people found such means, or how they could do such despicable things, but those women did exist.

When she first saw a similar-looking child, she was startled because she knew that Eva had left while pregnant back then.

It was later discovered that the child had undergone insane plastic surgery.

Such incidents happened several times until the Blackwood family business released a statement and put an end to it.

Vivian went from initially being worried and frightened to a state of speechlessness and finally felt relieved.

From then on, she wouldn't worry if she saw a child resembling Adrian. After all, Adrian never paid any attention to these children.

But today... he was actually looking at those two children.

And with just a quick glance, Vivian couldn't help but feel that those two children bore a striking resemblance to Adrian.

The sense of pride she had just felt from gaining attention now plummeted instantly.

As the final item was being auctioned off, the host held the microphone and sighed.

"Today's auction has been unprecedentedly intense, and our items have come to a conclusion. But please, don't blink, because up next, we have..."

The staff cooperated to bring out the highlight of the event.

The host, on stage, introduced it vividly.

The atmosphere in the room became excited due to his introduction, and the tension grew stronger.

Eva lowered her head and looked through once again.

This time, the centerpiece was a piece of craftsmanship passed down from a certain dynasty. The last time it appeared, it was acquired at a high price by a mysterious individual. People have been speculating who this mysterious person might be, never expecting it to land in the hands of the Davis family.

Eva remembered something and asked David next to her.

"The Davis family..."

David had a look as if he knew what she was going to ask before she even finished, and he immediately said, "Ms. Hansen, it's the same Davis family that has been trying to poach you." So it really was the Davis family.

Looking at the scene unfolding in front of her, Eva's lips curled into a smile. "It seems like the new successor is quite capable."

"Yes," David nodded. "Indeed, he is talented and also daring enough to secure this grand finale." The bidding had already begun.

David sighed, "Looking at the atmosphere today, I wonder for how much it will end up selling."

Being the grand finale item, the starting price was already very high, and with the constant sound of bidding, it didn't take long for this rare item to reach four hundred million dollars. Four hundred million dollars, five hundred million dollars.

Every number announced in the auction seemed effortless, as if they were mere digits.

"Six hundred million dollars!!" The host suddenly exclaimed, announcing the name, "Mr. Blackwood has made a bid of six hundred million dollars. Is there anyone willing to go higher than this?" Hearing the surname, David subconsciously looked at Eva.

But Eva seemed as though she didn't hear the surname at all, sitting calmly as if it was nothing out of the ordinary.

However, David's heart was far from calm.

This wasn't overseas... this was in America.

And it was in Chicago.

Not to mention Chicago, even in the entire country, there is nobody who can afford this price and also goes by the surname Blackwood.

David felt that he could guess, and someone as intelligent as Eva should also be able to guess.

However, seeing her calm demeanor, she must have already stopped caring.

This was expected, after all, five years had passed. Five years is neither long nor short, but it can fade many things.

David felt relieved.

The bidding continued.

In truth, the price of six hundred million dollars had made many people hesitant.

Even if they really liked this rare item, once it exceeded what they could afford, nobody would bid anymore.

So, just like the previous jade bracelet, only these two sides were competing.

The gazes of the people in the venue shifted from the VIP area to the last row, where they saw two unfamiliar faces and couldn't help but feel puzzled.

"What's happening today? The bidding for this rare item is already close to seven hundred million dollars, and they are still competing?"

"And the weirdest thing is that the people bidding from the back are not from the VIP area, yet they are bidding so aggressively."

"Who are these strangers? Are they intentionally driving up the price for the Blackwood family? Are they trying to offend the Blackwood family and ruin their own future?" "Whoever dares to go against the Blackwood family clearly doesn't fear the consequences."

"Family?"

Every time David raised the sign, countless people's eyes turned in their direction, glaringly bright.

He didn't really mind, but he was more concerned about Eva beside him, so he said, "Ms. Hansen, you've been sitting for a while, are you uncomfortable? Why don't you go rest first?" David's main concern was that someone among the crowd might recognize Eva, especially now that Michael wasn't here...

Mostly, he couldn't believe that person would be here today too.

Eva nodded in response to David's suggestion.

"Okay, I'll go outside for some fresh air and take a break. Contact me when you're done."

After speaking, Eva got up and left the venue directly.