Ch. 221..230

Chapter 221 Let Her Get on the Horse

The sentence that followed surprised Eva. "You know me?"

The person nodded with a smile. "Of course, even though five years have passed, you've become even more beautiful than before. But I recognized you at first sight. Back then, when you were working for the Blackwood family, you came to our company for cooperation. At that time, I was just a junior employee."

Upon hearing this, Eva understood. "So, you spent five years and became an executive?"

"Yes."

"Not bad." Eva thought he was quite capable and liked him for it.

But at the moment, the company's issue needed to be resolved.

Tim, the manager Eva hired, quickly offered her some suggestions.

"Actually, Ms. Hansen, if you want to solve this problem, it's quite simple."

Curious, Eva glanced at him and asked, "What's your idea?"

"Get investments." Tim said, "If we can attract investments from big companies, then we don't need to worry about the company's operation afterward."

Eva had considered attracting investments before.

"You mean, I should attract investments while the company only has a few people?"

Tim shrugged and spread his hands. "With your abilities and connections, is it not possible?"

Eva fell silent.

Regardless of what she thought, Tim immediately began listing the companies that could be approached for investments.

"First, there's the Blackwood family in New York, and then there's the Davis family in Chicago."

Upon hearing the former, Eva fell silent for a moment.

Noticing her reaction, Tim smiled and said, "Boss, even though you had a bit of a conflict with the Blackwood family in the past, you shouldn't mind it for the sake of your own company, right?"

Eva took a deep breath to calm herself, then smiled faintly, "I'm sorry, but I do mind."

Tim scratched his head awkwardly, coughed, and then said, "Alright, then we'll have to choose the Davis family in Chicago. Lately, they've gained great momentum, especially after that recent auction. The new heir is quite arrogant. But Boss, I should warn you in advance, don't get too close to Henry when attracting investments. It's fine to bring in investments, but be careful not to be deceived into bed by him."

Henry from the Davis family.

He happened to be on her WhatsApp contact list. She still had the suit jacket he lent her.

Maybe she could give it a try?

After making up her mind, Eva didn't waste any time. She immediately opened WhatsApp to find Henry's contact information. Since they added each other that day, they hadn't exchanged a single message, as if they treated each other as non-existent. Because she was busy, Eva had completely forgotten about the suit jacket.

After thinking for a long time about what to say, she edited a message and sent it to Henry.

"Mr. Davis, hello. Thank you for the jacket at the event the other day. I've recently cleaned it. When can I return it to you?"

After sending the message, Eva didn't expect an immediate response. She was about to put down her phone when she received a reply.

"It took so long, I thought Ms. Hansen lost my coat."

Eva explained somewhat awkwardly, "I'm sorry, I was busy after that. I only recently freed up some time."

After sending the message, she added, "May I ask when you have time?"

The other person casually replied, "You come and make plans with me, I'm always available."

Looking at this message, Eva remained silent for a while before replying to him after a moment. "There are some work matters I'd like to discuss with Mr. Davis." After sending this message, the other person didn't reply.

Eva held her phone, and her expression gradually grew solemn.

Was she too straightforward?

But if she was too indirect, Eva feared he might misunderstand something. Perhaps it was because Tim cautioned her, making her more cautious.

After a long five minutes, the other person finally replied.

"East District Racetrack, can you come now?"

The racetrack?

Although not an ideal place for a conversation, this was an opportunity!

Eva didn't hesitate for long. She quickly grabbed her bag and scarf and headed outside.

It was windy outside, so Eva tied her scarf as soon as she went downstairs, then hailed a taxi.

East District Racetrack.

Dirt was flying inside the racetrack as a tall, black stallion galloped through. Riding on the horse was a slender, handsome man with a cold expression. With a grim face, the man held the reins firmly in his hand. Even from a distance, one could feel the chilling aura and hostility emanating from him.

Since he took the stage, everyone else in the racetrack hurriedly drove their horses away, fearing being affected by the man's anger.

Henry had just finished a race. Despite it being winter, he drank his beverage as if it were hot water, finishing half the bottle of sweetened drink in one gulp.

After finishing, he locked the lid and looked at the man in the arena. He jestingly remarked, "What happened to this person today? He's so fierce."

The people standing next to him immediately shook their heads and denied, "It's not just today, it's been every day recently."

"Mr. Blackwood has been venting his anger here for half a month because he hasn't been doing well in any of the racecourses. The racetrack's owner is suffering, but they dare not offend Mr. Blackwood." Hearing this, Henry clicked his tongue.

"Who has offended him to make him so angry? He hasn't been able to calm down for half a month?"

The person next to him nodded, saying, "Who knows? Mr. Blackwood's thoughts are as unpredictable as an emperor's."

This description made Henry chuckle.

Thinking of something, Henry took out his phone and glanced at it.

It had been more than twenty minutes since he messaged the girl, and she had yet to arrive.

While pondering, his phone vibrated.

Henry saw that the other person had replied to him.

"Mr. Davis, I'm almost at the racetrack. Where are you? I'll come directly to you."

Looking at the message, Henry couldn't help but laugh.

"This girl is quite interesting, not younger than me, yet so driven in her career."

Seeing him smiling at his phone, the person next to him came over cheerfully.

"Mr. Davis, who is this girl? Is there another newcomer recently?"

Upon hearing this, Henry glared at the person, "What's it to you?"

The person laughed slyly, about to continue teasing, when suddenly, someone rode a horse and jumped over the railing, heading straight towards them. Finally, when they were close, the person abruptly pulled on the reins and stopped. This scene startled many people, causing them to retreat and even some to fall down in fear.

Only Henry stood there calmly, holding his phone.

The man on horseback stopped in front of him and coldly looked at his face, inviting him, "Henry, how about a challenge?"

Looking at the man in front of him, the pinnacle of success, Henry raised an eyebrow and smiled, "Sure, but I have to bring someone."

Hearing this, Adrian frowned.

Henry smirked, "Have you ever tried letting a woman ride your horse with you?"

 

Chapter 222 A New Love?

When the car stopped at the East District Racecourse, Eva had just gotten out when she saw Henry standing at the entrance.

He was dressed in a crisp equestrian outfit, tall and handsome. As soon as he saw her, a smile appeared on his lips. "Ms. Hansen."

Eva didn't expect him to come out and wait for her, so she hurriedly ran over with her bag.

"Mr. Davis, why are you here?"

"Ms. Hansen." Henry took the initiative to speak again, "If you don't mind, you can call me Henry."

Eva wondered if she dared to do so. They were not particularly familiar, how could she address him like that?

"Mr. Davis, I'm afraid that wouldn't be appropriate."

Hearing this, Henry narrowed his eyes, gave her a meaningful look, and finally said, "Alright, then continue calling me Mr. Davis for now, and we can change later."

Eva could only nod. "Okay, Mr. Davis."

"Let's go, I'll take you inside."

With that, Henry grabbed her wrist and led her into the racecourse.

Eva hadn't even had time to react before she was dragged in. The racecourse was large, with many people coming and going. Henry took long strides, not considering whether she could keep up or not. Eva tried to free herself but couldn't shake off his grip, so she had to quicken her pace to keep up with him.

As they walked, Henry asked, "Can Ms. Hansen ride a horse?"

Eva replied, "I've never tried."

"Well, that's good. If you've never tried, then you don't need to. You won't have to ride later."

After all, he would be the one taking her for a run.

However, Eva didn't understand the meaning behind his words and merely let him pull her forward.

She didn't try to break free afterward because Henry's actions didn't have a hint of intimacy. He just pulled her along and seemed to only want to bring her to their destination. "That's it, nothing more."

After a while, Henry released her hand. "We're here."

Eva's calves were sore from walking, but she sighed with relief when Henry let go of her hand. They had finally arrived.

She discreetly flexed her wrists and ankles before coming to a stop.

Not wanting to waste any time, Eva immediately thought of handing the suit jacket in her hand to Henry when he suddenly exclaimed, "Found them, come with me." What? Confused, Eva followed him.

The noisy crowd gradually quieted down, and many people focused their gaze on her, examining her.

After a moment, someone asked, "Mr. Davis, a new love interest?"

Giving the person a scornful glance, Henry replied, "What's it to you? Stop gawking and move along."

Despite his harsh words, those people were still grinning. It was evident that Henry usually mingled with them and often spoke like this.

A thought occurred to Eva: Looks can be deceiving.

Those people's gaze remained fixed on Eva, and it seemed more like they were captivated by her rather than curious about Henry's new interest.

Her attire wasn't particularly glamorous, even quite simple.

Simple trousers, a black coat, and a khaki-colored scarf. Her black, silky hair was neatly pinned back.

An extremely simple outfit, but it made them, accustomed to grandeur, take notice. However, that was also because of the woman's outstanding features and temperament. Bright, ethereal eyes with a hint of coldness, a delicate nose, and rosy lips adorned her fair, exquisite face.

After a while, someone couldn't help but exclaim, "Mr. Davis has found himself a gem this time."

Eva didn't hear what they said. She only wanted to discuss investment with Henry, so she followed him.

Lost in her thoughts about how to bring up the topic later, Eva did not sense anything amiss.

It wasn't until Henry led her to the edge of the lawn and shouted while waving his hand towards people galloping in the distant racetrack. Eva followed his gaze. "Adrian, over here!"

As Eva's eyes fell upon the person atop the horse, her smile instantly vanished.

How is this possible... such a coincidence?

It had been over half a month since what happened last time, and Eva had been busy all this time.

She thought that it should be in the past by now. Chicago wasn't Adrian's territory; he should have returned to New York long ago.

But who knew he was still here.

As their eyes met across the distance, Eva instinctively turned to run.

However, Henry, by her side, intentionally or unintentionally, grabbed her arm.

"Ms. Hansen, let me introduce our opponent later, Adrian from Blackwood Business. You should know him, right?"

Eva's lips turned pale.

It was more than just getting to know each other...

Henry, seemingly afraid that she would run away, smiled as he said, "I'll have a competition with him later. How about Ms. Hansen riding my horse?"

She wanted to leave now.

However, the men in the field had already noticed her and narrowed their eyes dangerously. The next moment, one of them dismounted and walked towards them with big strides. Adrian looked handsome in his equestrian attire, but his icy gaze made him exude an aura that kept people at a distance.

Before he even reached them, Eva could feel his sharp eyes piercing her face.

"Adrian, let me introduce you. This is my companion for later."

Adrian stood in front of them, unabashedly examining her. "Companion?"

Henry raised an eyebrow. "How about it? Isn't my companion impressive? To make it fair, why don't you choose one too?"

Among the onlookers was a girl who overheard their conversation and immediately ran over.

"Mr. Blackwood, let me be your companion. I've learned horseback riding and I'm not afraid."

After speaking, she flashed Adrian a sweet smile.

Henry glanced at her. "Alright then, it's you."

However, no matter what Henry and the girl said, Adrian's gaze remained fixed on Eva's face.

Direct and sharp.

Eva lightly bit her lower lip, thinking of how to refuse, but Henry interrupted, "Then you two go change into your equestrian attire." "No, I think..."

The girl standing beside them immediately took the initiative to grab Eva's arm. "Let's go change together."

As they walked, she asked, "How did you meet Mr. Davis? Are you his new girlfriend? I'm so envious of you."

 

Chapter 223 You Shameless

"Can you share with me how you managed to win over Mr. Davis? Give me some tips so I can learn too."

The girl was interested in Adrian, so she had no ill intentions towards Eva, who she mistook for Henry's woman. She quickly pulled Eva into the changing room.

Upon receiving the news of Adrian and Henry's competition, the staff at the equestrian center immediately prepared the arena and treated their companions with utmost care. As soon as they entered, someone was already bringing their equestrian attire.

One of the staff members handed the attire to Eva and praised, "Your figure is so good, I'm sure we can find the right size for you."

After speaking, they handed the attire to her.

Eva really wanted to leave right away.

But if she were to just leave like this today, she would probably publicly embarrass Henry. Not to mention losing the investment, it would completely offend him.

As Eva entered the changing room, she felt frustrated deep inside, thinking that she was extremely unlucky today, which led to this consequence.

Eva even wanted to pick up the phone and ask Tim if he really needed to postpone this investment.

But she didn't need to make the call, she knew how Tim would respond to her.

Eva looked at the equestrian uniform in her hand, lost in thought.

After a moment, Eva gradually overcame her hesitation to start the company. What's more, she had already cut ties with Adrian a long time ago, and she would have her lawyer return all the property she gave herself. If everything went smoothly, he must have already received it.

This meant that they had settled their accounts, and if she was to develop in China in the future, she would definitely have to face him.

Should she flee every time they meet face to face?

It's unrealistic and embarrassing.

So she could only face it head-on, it is an opportunity.

After thinking it through, she took a deep breath and took off her coat, hanging it on the rack.

Then, just as she was about to take off her white sweater, someone knocked on the changing room door from the outside.

"Who is it?"

Eva didn't think much of it, assuming it was her friend who came in with her, wondering why she changed so quickly, as she opened the door.

Everything went black, and a figure rushed into the changing room. Before she could react, the door was closed and locked with a click.

Eva stared at the person in front of her in disbelief, and then subconsciously tried to open the door.

However, before her hand even had a chance to touch the lock, Adrian grabbed her wrist, lifted it above her head, and pushed her against the cold, hard door. Eva struggled, "Let me go."

Adrian, expressionless, tightened his grip on her hand.

In the midst of her struggle, Eva's hair, which she had tied behind her head, fell apart like a waterfall, carrying a faint sweet fragrance, covering her figure that appeared even more stunning in the tight sweater. Adrian looked at her coldly.

She looked even more beautiful than before after five years. The youthful aura had faded from her body, but her long, straight black hair couldn't hide her innocence. At the moment, she also exuded the charm of a mature woman. Innocence and charm were always hard to coexist.

But at this moment, both were displayed brilliantly in Eva.

However, her gaze seemed to be on the verge of spewing fire.

"I told you to let me go, didn't you hear?"

Adrian, as if he hadn't heard her, not only didn't let go, but also leaned in, bringing their bodies closer inch by inch.

Until there was no gap between their bodies, pressing tightly against each other.

Adrian's mocking voice followed.

"So Michael let you out like this to play with other men? It seems he doesn't care about you that much."

Hearing this, Eva furrowed her brows. "What Michael thinks of me is none of your business."

As she spoke, Eva struggled again.

As they were already pressed against each other, with their clothes not very thick, Adrian distinctly felt the friction of her stunning figure against his own body as she struggled. Adrian's face changed, and he tightened his grip on Eva's wrist.

In the midst of her struggle, Eva also realized...

What happened? The expressions froze, and the movements came to a sudden halt.

There was an ambiguous atmosphere in the air.

A few seconds later, Eva's fair cheeks turned crimson, and she glared at the person who was close to her, gritting her teeth, "You are shameless!"

Adrian's face also looked awful, it could even be described as dark as the bottom of a pot, and he said in a hoarse voice, full of anger, "If you hadn't moved around like that, would this happen?"

Although they were close just now, neither of them moved, and his emotions were all consumed by anger.

But now, being rubbed by her like this...

Adrian took a deep breath and closed his eyes despairingly. He had never expected that after so many years, his body would react so strongly to her.

Eva responded without any politeness.

"So what if I moved around? If you hadn't been pulling me all the time, would it be like this? The reason why people are called human is that they should learn to control themselves, otherwise what's the difference between them and the stray dogs in heat on the street?"

The second half of the sentence made Adrian narrow his eyes dangerously, biting his back teeth, "What did you say?"

"Did I say something wrong? If you dare to do it, don't be afraid of what others say!"

Adrian took a deep breath and didn't respond.

But obviously, Eva didn't intend to let him off easy, urging him, "Get out of my way."

Adrian didn't move.

Eva became angry and pushed him.

Adrian groaned as she pushed him.

A certain part of his body's response made Eva's face turn pale with anger. "Adrian, can you be more disgusting?"

Her angry yet still charming voice made Adrian pause. After a moment, he lowered his gaze, his eyes falling on her beautiful face, and his lips curled slightly, "Sure, if you keep moving and touching me recklessly, I don't mind being disgusting to you."

Eva was shocked by his attitude. After a long while, she could only curse again, "Shameless!"

Adrian sarcastically tugged at the corner of his lips.

"Thanks for the compliment."

After a while, Adrian took the initiative to create distance between them, immediately turning his back.

If they stayed close like before, he didn't know if he could leave this changing room today.

As soon as he turned around, Eva reached out to open the door, preparing to leave.

Before she could unlock it, there was a knocking sound from outside.

Immediately after, the voice of the girl who had come in with her earlier sounded from outside.

"Have you changed into your riding attire?"

Eva's actions suddenly stopped.

She didn't expect that the girl would come to knock on the door at this moment. She certainly didn't want anyone to see her with Adrian.

She could only stand still and calmly say, "Not yet, have you changed? Then you go first..."

 

 

Chapter 224 On Horseback

A large hand unexpectedly reached over and wrapped around her waist.

The sudden touch startled Eva, and she exclaimed, "What's wrong?"

The girl outside the changing room heard her exclamation but didn't know if she was suspicious or worried. She started turning the doorknob, trying to come in. However, Adrian had previously locked the door, so no matter how she turned it, the girl couldn't open it.

"Why can't I open this door? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Eva said, trying to calm herself. "I just didn't stand firm earlier and almost fell, but now I'm okay."

"Really?" The girl still seemed skeptical.

She stood outside the changing room, looking around, biting her lower lip.

Actually, when she was changing earlier, she wasn't sure if it was just her imagination, but she seemed to hear a man's voice coming from Eva's side. And that man's voice sounded a lot like Mr. Blackwood's.

So she came out, but when she did, there was no sound anymore.

It felt like everything that just happened was just her mind playing tricks on her.

Thinking about this, the girl couldn't help but say, "Are you really fine? Should I open the door and take a look at how serious your injuries are?" "No need, I'm almost done changing. You can go outside first."

"Well, then, should I call Mr. Davis for you?"

Eva thought for a moment and nodded directly. "Alright."

If she didn't agree, she didn't know how long this girl would keep bothering her here.

The most important thing now was to get her out of her way.

As expected, after the girl heard her words, she immediately said, "Okay, then wait for me, I'll go call him."

Initially, the girl was still suspicious if Adrian had entered her changing room, but now she had no doubts and turned to leave.

Once there was no movement outside, Eva turned back and brushed off Adrian's hand on her waist before opening the door. "Leave."

Adrian glanced at her and didn't move.

Eva pursed her lips. "I'm telling you one last time, leave."

Adrian silently stared at her, not knowing what he was thinking. After a moment, he suddenly stood up and walked out.

After he left, the changing room regained its calmness.

Eva stood there for a while, but finally silently changed into her equestrian dress.

The staff had given her the smallest size, and after putting it on, it fit perfectly everywhere except for being a little tight around her chest.

After getting dressed, Eva opened the door again and walked out.

"She fell in there?" Henry followed the girl, Samantha, and walked towards the direction of the changing room. But soon, he raised his eyebrows, wanting to lead him to the changing room.

He didn't expect Eva to be so different from what he imagined and to play so wild.

Walking ahead, Henry saw someone coming out, and it happened to be Adrian.

Henry and Samantha stopped.

The girl, Samantha, called out, wide-eyed, "Mr. Blackwood, why did you come out from there?"

Hearing that, Henry also found it interesting and raised his eyebrows. "I'm also curious, how did you end up here?"

However, Adrian didn't pay any attention to them at all and walked past expressionlessly.

Seeing this, Samantha instinctively wanted to follow him.

Meanwhile, Henry thought about Eva waiting for him in the changing room and picked up his pace again, preparing to go over.

However, he had only taken two steps when Adrian stopped him.

"What's wrong?" Henry turned back.

Adrian stared at him coldly, "Where are you going?"

"Why do you care where I'm going?" Henry smiled, "I heard that my companion twisted her ankle in the changing room and I was about to go check on her."

Upon hearing this, Adrian narrowed his eyes dangerously.

Henry didn't know what was going on with him. After explaining, he turned around and was about to walk inside. However, his steps suddenly paused, and he stood there dumbfounded, staring at Eva who was already dressed in equestrian attire.

The woman's equestrian outfit was sleek, cleverly combining red and white.

After putting on this equestrian outfit, Eva's already slender waistline was even more tightly cinched, her beautiful shoulders, slender waist, and cascading waist-length hair.

Henry looked at her in astonishment.

He never imagined that Eva, with her hair down and wearing equestrian attire, would look like this.

She was breathtakingly beautiful.

His heart thumped violently in his chest, and when Henry reacted, he subconsciously swallowed.

"Ms. Hansen, have you changed clothes?"

Eva glanced at Adrian, not far behind Henry, and then quickly turned her eyes back to him, walking up to Henry and nodding. "Yes."

With the two of them getting closer, it was a visual assault for Henry.

His heart started acting up again.

"Shall we go then?"

Eva thought for a moment and didn't follow Henry directly. Instead, she smiled and said, "Mr. Davis, I have never ridden a horse before, and I am quite afraid. But since it's Mr. Davis's invitation today, I will accompany you. However, I hope that after this competition, Mr. Davis can give me some time to talk about work."

"Of course."

Almost instinctively, Henry readily agreed. "No problem, we can talk about anything you want."

Eva smiled, "Thank you."

"You're welcome, let's go."

Eva followed behind Henry as they entered the equestrian field together.

Samantha stood beside her, looking at her with astonishment.

"You look great in that outfit."

Eva glanced at her and complimented back, "Thank you, you look beautiful too."

"I'm Samantha."

"Eva."

The two girls shook hands.

The staff at the equestrian field had already brought over two horses, and the preparations were complete.

The starting point and finish line had been set.

"We have placed a red flag on the mountaintop of the East District. The first one to grab the flag wins. There will be surveillance on the road, and vehicles will be intercepted. No other cars will enter for the next hour." Eva listened on the side and sarcastically pursed her lips.

The power of capital is truly immense.

Samantha said, "Mr. Blackwood is probably determined to win, but... I cherish the moments alone with him even more."

"Yes, I will try my best to delay him," Adrian said as soon as the words fell from his mouth. Without wasting any time, he mounted his horse.

Seeing this, Samantha immediately spoke, "Then I'll go now," and ran in Adrian's direction.

Henry also walked towards her. "Ms. Hansen, should we mount our horses too?"

Just as Eva was about to nod, Adrian, riding on his horse, stopped in front of her, looking down at her with superiority.

"Get on."

Samantha, who was completely ignored, stood frozen.

Henry was dumbfounded as well.

Only Eva stood still as if she hadn't heard Adrian's words.

One second, two seconds...

After three seconds, Adrian's patience wore thin, and he said coldly, "I said, get on."

 

Chapter 225 Return Her to Me Quickly

Samantha and Henry were not the only ones taken aback.

The staff nearby were also frightened by the aura that unexpectedly emanated from Adrian. His indifferent tone seemed to announce the imminent storm.

As the most influential person at the racecourse today, nobody dared to offend him.

Compared to the fear of others, Eva, with her slender figure, seemed unaffected and calm.

Even with the frown on her face, she boldly stated in front of everyone, "You've mistaken me. I came with Mr. Davis, not as your companion."

In other words, she rejected him.

The response shocked everyone, and they stared at her in disbelief. Perhaps they didn't expect her to decline Adrian in this way, and they certainly didn't expect her to openly offend him. As expected, Adrian narrowed his eyes dangerously and stared at her, then abruptly urged his horse in her direction.

Samantha covered her mouth with a gasp in fear. Everyone was startled when they saw him charging straight toward her.

Could it be that Mr. Blackwood intended to ride the horse to collide with her?

"Adrian!" Even Henry was startled by his actions. Thinking that Adrian was about to confront Eva, he called out his name in a stern voice and reached out to pull Eva by his side. However, before Henry could touch Eva, a large hand swept in and directly pulled Eva, who was standing still, onto the horse.

"Ah!" Eva couldn't help but yelp in surprise. In fact, when he was riding toward her, Eva wasn't scared at all. Even though they hadn't seen each other for five years, Eva knew him too well. He wouldn't dare to collide with her; at most, he was just trying to frighten her. That's why she confidently stood in place.

But who could have expected that he would directly pull her, completely unprepared, onto the horse?

Once on the horse, Adrian urged it forward, and the force made Eva instinctively hold onto him tightly. Her untied cascading dark hair danced in the air. Adrian's lips curved slightly as he pulled her closer with one hand until she was seated next to him, and then he controlled the horse to stop.

After dismounting, Eva's beautiful eyes almost spewed fire.

"What are you doing?"

Eva questioned while gripping him tightly, occasionally glancing at the horse beneath them.

The horse was grand and powerful. If they were to fall from above...

Thinking this, Eva instinctively gripped him even tighter, not noticing Adrian's lips curling up slightly after observing her action.

Although she was getting angry at him, she carefully held onto him, afraid that she might fall. Adrian's reliance on her made his earlier anger vanish completely.

He continued to stare at her face and teased, "Daring to ride another man's horse? Don't you think their riding skills might throw you off?"

Hearing this, Eva replied, "... You're overthinking, aren't you? Since he dared to bring me, it shows that his riding skills are excellent."

"Is that so?" Adrian raised his chin, looking proud and arrogant. "Ask Henry if the two broken ribs he had from last time have already healed." Henry, being openly exposed, angrily roared, "I heard that!"

After roaring, he noticed Eva suspiciously staring at him.

Only then did Henry realize his mistake.

He couldn't control himself and blurted out a curse.

But soon, he reacted and said, "Wait, Adrian, why are you stealing my person? Do you two know each other?"

Adrian glanced at him and said, "Your person?"

His gaze was icy and extremely sharp, causing Henry to shiver involuntarily.

But when he looked at the beauty on his horse, he shamelessly uttered, "The person I brought, is that not acceptable? Give her back to me quickly." Adrian sneered and pulled Eva away by the reins.

As his horse moved, Eva reflexively held onto him tightly and said, "Put me down, Adrian!"

The crowd could only watch as Adrian brought her back to the starting point, while she continued to angrily berate him. Not only did he remain unaffected, he didn't even get angry when she cursed at him in front of everyone. Henry watched this scene and couldn't help but curse again.

It seemed like he wouldn't be able to snatch her back today.

Henry could only turn around and look at Samantha, who was standing still in a daze.

"Ride my horse?"

Samantha snapped out of it and then nodded somewhat dazedly, following behind Henry obediently.

When they reached the horse, she couldn't help but ask, "Do they know each other?"

"Isn't that obvious? If Adrian didn't know her, how could he have put her on his horse? That guy who never lets women near him."

Henry, whose actions and intentions were exposed in public, became short-tempered and exploded.

Samantha felt frustrated after hearing that and poked her finger without saying a word.

Henry turned his head to look at her.

Samantha also looked at him.

The two silently stared at each other.

After a few seconds, Henry said, "Get on the horse, huh? Do you think I would use Adrian's trick?"

Samantha climbed onto the horse by herself, feeling angry.

Once she was seated properly, she said,

Henry also flipped over and heard Samantha weakly ask, "Is it true that you broke two ribs?"

Both of them stopped on their horses at the starting point.

Henry looked at the person who was supposed to be on his own horse, but was now taken by Adrian, feeling furious.

"Gambling alone is not interesting. Let's raise the stakes, Mr. Blackwood."

After Adrian took the person, his attitude became indifferent, as if winning or losing was no longer important to him, as long as he had the person in his arms.

So, when he heard Henry's words, he didn't even bother to lift an eyelid.

On the other hand, when Eva saw Henry, she wanted to explain to him, "Mr. Davis, what I told you earlier..."

Adrian glanced at her and suddenly spoke coldly, interrupting her conversation with Henry.

"What are we gambling?"

He directly cut off their chance to talk.

Henry saw through his intentions and sneered.

"If I win, I'll run another lap," he pointed at Eva, "and then you'll give her back to me!"

Eva was speechless, what did their bet have to do with her?

Upon hearing this, Adrian laughed coldly.

"Don't even think about it, you think you can win against me."

Henry provoked him, "Dare to bet? I dare to challenge you. Are you too afraid to accept?"

Under normal circumstances, Henry would never provoke Adrian like this, but today was too outrageous. The humiliating incident spread throughout the East District racecourse, leaving him without any dignity in the eyes of others. Adrian seemed to be provoked, looking at him. "Are you sure you want to bet?"

"I bet."

"Alright," he lazily said, "then I'll change the stakes. If I win, you won't see her again."

Upon hearing this, Henry was dumbfounded.

After a moment, he shouted, "Adrian, how can you be so ruthless!"

 

Chapter 226 Embrace

"So, are you still gambling?"

Henry gritted his teeth and looked at Samantha in front of him, "What do you think? You can do it, right? You must win against him!"

Samantha replied, "I think safety is more important."

Although Eva didn't want to speak, deep down she also believed that safety was more important.

The staff over there approached, flattering, "Mr. Blackwood, Mr. Davis, it's about to start."

Henry tightened the reins, gritting his teeth, "Let's just start then. I don't believe I can't beat him!"

There was still one minute left until the start.

The racecourse staff started to explain the rules again.

"I repeat, the one who grabs the flag first wins."

"At the finish line, there's a gift prepared by the East District racecourse for the winner. Everyone, please be safe. The countdown will begin: ten, nine, eight..." Eva was still trying to dismount.

But ever since Adrian pulled her onto the horse, his large hand had been like a heavy iron chain, firmly wrapped around her waist, rendering her completely immobile. Counting down to seven...

hen after Eva spoke, the referee immediately made his decision and Henry, next to her, charged out like a mad dog, accompanied by Samantha's screams. "Henry, slow down! Safety first!"

"What safety? Winning is what matters," Henry replied.

Eva watched as Henry rode far away, while Adrian behind her remained still. Eva didn't want to talk to him, so she stayed silent and didn't ask him anything. After a while, when he still hadn't moved, Eva couldn't help but ask, "What are you doing? Do you want to lose?"

Seeing that she couldn't resist speaking to him, Adrian's dark eyes revealed a hint of satisfaction.

"Are you afraid I'll lose and hand you over to him?"

Five years had passed, and he had no idea how he had gotten through those years. Yet, he could still lightly say these words to her. How ironic.

Eva's eyes turned cold, and she responded sarcastically, following his lead. "Why should I be afraid? It's better if you lose. I came here to find him in the first place." Hearing this, Adrian's face darkened. "What did you say? Say it again."

"If you want to hear it, of course, I can say it a second time. I can say it ten times if you'd like."

However, before Eva could say anything else, Adrian had already ridden out.

Unexpectedly, the wind became noisy, and inertia caused Eva's body to lean back. She couldn't utter the words on her lips and had to forcefully suppress the urge to scream.

But even if she pretended to be calm on the surface, her body's reactions couldn't deceive anyone.

Initially, she had thought that even if it started, she would do her best to keep her distance from Adrian. Yet now that it had truly begun, she couldn't control her body at all. She leaned completely on Adrian's chest, her body tense. She was afraid that with one wrong move, she would be thrown off the horse.

And Adrian, intentionally, whispered in her ear, "Why have you stopped talking?"

Eva was too angry to speak and didn't bother responding to him.

Seeing that she didn't speak, Adrian let out a pleased chuckle and then said, "Do you want to turn around and face me?"

Adrian's words provoked Eva, causing her to speak up. "Do you think that's possible?"

"Then, sit tight," Adrian leaned in a bit closer, pressing his entire chest against her back. The warmth from his body transferred to her skin, and he whispered near her earlobe, "I'll lead you to victory."

In the next instant, their steeds galloped on the dedicated path, speeding up.

The cold winter wind blew fiercely against Eva's face and body, lifting her hair and causing some strands to scatter onto Adrian's neck.

He furrowed his brows slightly. "Why didn't you tie up your hair?"

How dare he ask that? If it wasn't for him entering the dressing room, her hairpin wouldn't be struggling

During the journey, it fell to the ground and broke, rendering it useless.

There were two or three paths leading to the mountaintop, each with a different route.

So they walked for a long time without seeing Henry and Samantha.

"Where are they?"

They've been running out for so long, and it's unexpected that they haven't seen Henry yet.

"To the mountaintop, there are three paths, two main roads, and one small road."

As Adrian spoke, his horse stopped at the fork, and he glanced down at the person in his arms.

"Which one do you want to take?"

"What does it matter to me?"

"To win, Henry might take a risky move and choose the small path. If we take the small path too and happen to encounter them, it might be a horse flip."

Adrian kept his gaze locked on her. Seeing that she wasn't moved, he pulled the reins and steered the horse towards the small path.

Realizing something, Eva's expression changed slightly. "What are you doing?"

He had clearly analyzed everything, so why did he still choose the small path?

Adrian: "Taking you to win."

With that, he tightened his grip on the horse's belly, and the horse charged into the small path. Eva didn't even have time to regret it.

After entering the small path, Eva breathed a sigh of relief.

Initially, she thought the small path would be as its name suggested, a narrow road, which was why Adrian mentioned the possibility of a horse flip.

But after entering, she found that the road was quite wide. However, since they were in the mountains, Eva still felt a bit scared, even if they were hugging the wall.

Moreover, Eva gradually realized that something was off.

From the beginning, the path that seemed wide enough for three horses gradually narrowed, even becoming winding and twisting. The horse ran at a fast speed, and several times Eva felt like the horse was about to jump out, but it always managed to turn back.

Several times along the way, Eva was startled speechless, with cold sweat on her back. By the time the road conditions returned to normal, she had lost all her strength and leaned weakly against Adrian.

As Adrian had said, the small path was indeed quick. When they arrived at the mountaintop, the flag was still there, along with a small gift box.

Eva looked at the flag and forcibly straightened up despite feeling nauseated, preparing to ask him to put her down so she could untie the flag. Suddenly, the person behind her without warning leaned over and hugged her.

Tightly, forcefully, as if trying to merge her into his chest.

On this silent mountaintop.

Eva could even hear his heart pounding strongly against her back.

Unlike his previous teasing and cold questioning, Adrian at this moment was simply holding her, tightly, as if he never wanted to let go in this lifetime. For a long time, she heard a very soft, whisper-like voice.

"After five years, are you finally willing to come back?"

 

Chapter 227 Don't Even Think About Leaving

Time seemed to pass without notice, and the wind lifted Eva's long hair.

As the nausea caused by the horse's trot gradually subsided, she lowered her eyes and looked at the hand that encircled her.

Her voice turned cold. "Had enough of hugging?" The person behind her suddenly froze. "If you've had enough, let go. I want to go down and grab the flag." After saying these words, Eva could clearly feel the person hugging her relax slightly.

The person froze for a moment, then slowly released their hand.

"Alright, let's get the flag first."

Adrian dismounted and reached out his hand to help Eva down.

Eva glanced at him and didn't take his hand. Instead, she struggled to get off the horse by herself.

This scene made Adrian's gaze turn colder.

After dismounting, Eva took a deep breath and went forward to get the flag. She didn't bother with the small box nearby, showing no interest.

Just as she stood up straight, Henry's loud curse could be heard in the distance.

"Adrian, you scoundrel! You actually arrived before me!"

Henry dismounted and angrily threw the reins on the ground.

"Samantha! It's all your fault for not letting me take the shortcut!"

Samantha responded with a "Hmph!"

Henry glanced at Adrian and tried to pass him to talk to Eva, but Adrian lifted his hand to block his way.

"Forget what the bet was about?"

Upon hearing this, Henry's expression immediately turned unpleasant.

"Don't be like this, Adrian. I was just going to have a chat with her. We've known each other for a while now. Are you joking with me?"

However, Adrian didn't move and just coldly stared at him.

"Do I look like I'm joking with you?"

Henry opened his mouth, intending to say something more, but when he saw the pitch-black eyes and the surging anger in Adrian's eyes, he suddenly realized something was wrong. Adrian wasn't just warning him about the bet.

It wasn't merely about the bet; his hostility was much stronger.

Henry glanced at Eva, who stood beside him, holding the flag with her beautiful face and cold demeanor. There seemed to be an unusual energy flowing between the two of them. He took two steps back and admitted defeat.

"Fine, I won't talk to her for now. I admit defeat, alright?"

After saying that, Henry quickly left.

Eva, seeing this, wanted to go after him. After all, her purpose of coming here today was to secure his investment.

But as she passed by Adrian, he grabbed her wrist.

"Did I let you go?"

Eva frowned, still holding the victorious flag in her hand.

Unfortunately, this victory didn't bring any joy to either of them.

Eva lowered her head, her gaze falling on Adrian's hand gripping her wrist. She slowly freed herself inch by inch.

After pulling her hand away, she casually shook it and then looked at Adrian with a hint of amusement. "It's been five years, Adrian. Do you still think you have any importance to me? You want to hug me? Please show some respect when you see me in the future, otherwise, I will consider it harassment."

Her words caused Adrian's pupils to dilate, and his aura became dangerous.

Unfortunately, Eva wasn't afraid of him at all. Seeing that he didn't speak, she added another remark.

"Understood?" After finishing her sentence, Eva breathed a sigh of relief and walked past him.

"Are you with Michael now?"

Upon hearing this, Eva paused her steps.

After a moment.

"That's none of your business."

After leaving on her own, Henry was still standing there, looking confused when he saw Eva approaching. He glanced at Adrian too.

"Mr. Davis, although it's unfortunate that we didn't ride together, I still hope you can spare me some time to discuss work-related matters?" Eva said.

Henry thought about Adrian's zombie-like face and initially didn't want to agree. However, seeing Eva's smile in front of him, the words on his lips changed as if guided by a mysterious force. "Alright then, let's go," he said. "Thank you," Eva replied.

As they were leaving, Eva also invited Samantha who was standing nearby. Samantha waved her hand and said, "No, I'm going. The man you don't like, I like. I want to seize the opportunity."

Did none of these people know about him and Vivian being together?

However, Eva never liked to judge or interfere with others' lives and decisions. She chose to respect their thoughts and nodded. "Alright, let's go then."

She and Henry left together. Henry walked over with the horse, scratching his head awkwardly. "The road down the mountain is quite far and it will take a long time on foot. Would you like to ride?"

Eva was just relieved to avoid riding the horse at this point but then remembered the investment... She took a deep breath and was about to agree.

"Do you dare to ride his horse and try it for yourself!" Adrian's demanding voice came from above.

Henry immediately changed his mind and said, "Why don't I call a car instead?" He promptly took out his phone to make a call.

Eva felt relieved seeing this. Riding a car instead of a horse would be the best option.

The car arrived quickly. Just as Eva was about to open the door and sit in, someone else swiftly opened the back door and took the seat directly. Eva glanced at the person, feeling somewhat speechless. She had just made it clear to him.

Facing her gaze, Adrian looked back at her as if it was only natural for him to be there. It was his friend who called the car, after all. But she was definitely not going to sit with him.

Upon seeing this, Eva directly closed the door and sat in the front passenger seat.

Henry and Samantha had no choice but to sit in the back. But just as Henry sat down, Adrian's cold voice sounded, "Henry, you go sit in the front."

"Why?" Henry looked up and met Adrian's icy gaze, unable to control a shiver.

"That's fine, I understand. I'll go sit in the front," Henry said.

Sitting in the front passenger seat on the way downhill was the most dangerous.

Henry opened the door and said to Eva, "Ms. Hansen, let's switch seats."

"Thank you, but it's not necessary," Eva politely declined him.

Henry stood in place, feeling quite troubled.

Adrian was making things difficult for him today, but he couldn't possibly harass a girl he was interested in, right?

Just then, Adrian's icy voice came from the back seat.

"No switching. The car won't move if you do."

The driver tightened his grip on the steering wheel, almost mistaking the accelerator for the brake. He was terrified.

"You're being childish," Eva commented without turning back.

But anyone could tell who she was aiming her words at.

Adrian stared intently at the back of her head.

Seeing this, Henry whispered, "...why don't you switch with me? It'll be over once we get off the mountain."

Eva remained seated and didn't move, while Henry didn't know what else to say. Meanwhile, Adrian maintained his icy expression. Everyone stood there, locked in a stalemate.

After a while, Samantha, who was standing by the back door, weakly raised her hand and said, "Can I sit in the front passenger seat?"

 

Chapter 228 Comfortable?

A few minutes later.

Samantha sat in the front passenger seat. As soon as she got in, she immediately closed the door, buckled her seatbelt, and wore an expression that said, "This seat is mine now, do whatever you want, I won't change." After getting out of the car, Eva stood in place and only after a while said to Henry, "You go ahead."

Henry didn't have any objections. Since everyone was going down the mountain, they could just ride together.

He listened to Eva and bent down, wanting to get in. Then he heard Adrian say, "Scram."

Henry maintained his posture for a moment, but then lifted his head with a smile, saying to Eva, "Ms. Hansen, why don't you go in first?"

Seeing his expression and recalling what had happened earlier, Eva sighed helplessly in her heart and resignedly got into the car. Henry followed behind her.

Since they had to keep their distance from Adrian, Eva sat closer to Henry's side.

After the car started moving, Adrian furrowed his brows.

"Henry, move over a bit."

Hearing this, Henry didn't think much of it and shifted towards the side of the car.

Adrian's desire to avoid others touching the woman he had his eyes on was normal.

Thinking this, Henry moved a bit closer to the car window.

But unexpectedly, Adrian still wasn't satisfied. "Move over a bit more."

Henry looked at Adrian speechlessly and moved a bit more.

"More."

"It's not like I can just move if there's no space for me to move to. Should I just get off the car then?"

Adrian's face remained expressionless. "Fine."

Eva, sitting in the middle, couldn't bear it anymore and turned her head to face Adrian. They locked eyes, her gaze meeting his pitch-black eyes.

Since they got in the car, his gaze had been fixed on her, never once shifting.

"Would you like to get off?"

Upon hearing this, Henry immediately thumbed up at Eva.

Seeing Eva arguing with him face to face, Adrian naturally didn't look pleased, but he still tugged at his lips in the end. "Are you sure? If I get off, then you'll have to follow."

Upon hearing that, Eva immediately withdrew her gaze without any hesitation. She couldn't be bothered to deal with him anymore. She understood this man, Adrian, too well. He could say what he would do and then actually do it. If she couldn't change him, then she would just ignore him.

So, when they were descending the mountain, Eva simply closed her eyes and rested against the seat. She sat up straight, with Henry on either side of her.

She didn't want to get close to anyone. Originally, she just wanted to close her eyes and not speak. However, the journey down the mountain took about half an hour, and the mountain road was rugged, with important people on board, so the driver dared not drive fast and could only go slowly.

As time went on, Eva unintentionally fell asleep.

Once asleep, her head, which had been leaning against the seat, began to lean to the side.

Adrian pursed his lips and, seeing her head about to fall towards Henry, suddenly reached out and supported it.

Eva's head rested in his palm. After making sure she was deeply asleep and wouldn't wake up, Adrian slowly leaned her head onto his shoulder.

During the process, the movements were extremely gentle and soft.

Henry, who was sitting next to them, saw this scene and looked at Adrian in astonishment.

Adrian, upon receiving his gaze, remained expressionless.

Henry, on the other hand, had a startled expression.

As they continued on the road, Adrian watched with satisfaction as Eva, who was awake and usually eager to distance herself from him, ended up sleeping and only able to rely on his shoulder. Indeed, she was more obedient when she was asleep.

When she was awake, she was too arrogant and indifferent.

Thinking of her cold gaze, Adrian's heart tensed with a dull pain.

Since they had met, it was rare to have such a warm moment.

Unfortunately, this warm moment didn't last long as Eva's phone in her pocket suddenly rang.

The melodious ringtone echoed in the quiet car, and Eva woke up quickly.

Adrian's body suddenly tensed.

Unexpectedly, without even opening her eyes, Eva felt her way to her phone in her pocket in the same position.

Being close, Adrian saw that the incoming call displayed "Michael" on her phone screen.

His face immediately turned dark.

"Hello," Eva brought the phone close to her ear.

Perhaps her voice was too groggy, so Michael on the other end of the line paused and asked, "Just woke up? Where are you?"

Eva was still groggy from sleep, so her voice and emotions were soft. Based on her faint memories before falling asleep, she said, "In the car."

After speaking, Eva felt that her current position was uncomfortable, so she adjusted her posture and rubbed her head against the side.

Once she felt comfortable, she asked, "What's the matter? Why are you looking for me?"

"You're still sleeping in the car? Eva, didn't you get enough rest last night?"

It wasn't that she didn't get enough rest last night. It was that she was tired and felt nauseous because of Adrian's driving, which made her fall asleep accidentally... Realizing this, Eva suddenly realized something.

Her actions seemed to freeze for a moment.

Then, she slowly opened her eyes, raised her head, and met Adrian's dark, deep gaze. However, Adrian was now looking at her with a displeased expression. "Eva?"

Michael on the other end of the phone still hadn't received her response, so he called her again.

Suddenly, Adrian spoke with a slight parting of his thin lips, "Is it comfortable leaning on him?"

Michael's voice abruptly stopped.

Eva's face changed.

Soon, she realized what Adrian was implying.

This was intentional; he clearly knew he was on the phone but chose to speak at this moment. Maybe when he answered the call just now, he even saw his own name on the screen.

It took a while for Michael on the other end of the phone to find his voice.

"Eva, where are you?"

Since Eva didn't take Adrian's matter seriously and had no intention of telling Michael, she decided to just say it now since he had discovered it.

"I'm still on my way. Something unexpected happened today, I'll tell you when I get back."

Michael remained silent for a moment.

"Okay."

He paused and added, "If it's inconvenient for you, you can get off now and tell me the location so I can come pick you up."

Hearing this, Eva was taken aback.

She understood what Michael meant.

Eva pursed her lips and lowered her gaze. "No need, I'll be there soon. Just wait for me to come back."

Michael didn't say anything more.

Eva felt a little uncomfortable and could only bid him goodbye before hanging up the phone.

She put her phone away and sat back in her seat.

"You haven't answered my question," Adrian persisted, "Is it comfortable leaning on me?"

Eva turned her head, staring at Adrian silently.

"You might not know, but I sleep very properly and would never lean on you."

"Is that so?" Adrian mocked and tugged at his lips. "Seems like you don't know yourself well enough. Well, a sleeping person wouldn't know what they've done, unlike me, the former person by your side, right?"

 

 

Chapter 229 Offending People

This statement made Henry and Samantha, who were secretly eavesdropping, widen their eyes simultaneously. They both turned their heads and exclaimed in unison.

"Person by your side?"

"What does that mean? Did you two used to sleep together?"

Even the driver was so startled that he slammed on the brakes, making a screeching sound.

Everyone looked at Adrian.

The driver hastily wiped the sweat from his forehead with a handkerchief and forced a smile, "We have arrived."

Upon hearing this, Eva realized that the car had already arrived at the racecourse.

She reacted and immediately pushed Henry.

Henry also got off the car right away.

Seeing this, Eva prepared to follow, but she heard Adrian's cold voice from behind.

"You're just going to leave after leaning on me?"

It seemed he had become even more shameless than before during their five years of separation.

She glanced at him and sneered, "What can you do if I just leave like this?"

With that, she jumped off the car, slammed the door shut, went back to the dressing room to change back into her own clothes, and then left.

When she was leaving, Henry found her and said awkwardly, "I'm sorry, I didn't know there was this kind of relationship between you two, otherwise, I wouldn't have invited you to the equestrian center." "What relationship?" Eva's expression remained indifferent. "I have no relationship with him whatsoever."

"It's alright, but just now in the car..."

"Even if there was anything, it doesn't matter."

"Five years ago."

"Five years ago?" Henry repeated, initially muttering but then widening his eyes as if he realized something. "You mean?" Eva nodded.

"I can't believe it..." Henry murmured to himself. "No wonder he became so irrational and lost his composure when he saw you." Henry had never seen Adrian act as crazy as he did on their journey.

"So, Mr. Davis, I hope that it won't affect our future work in any way."

Only then did Henry remember that Eva had come to talk about work today, but he wasn't sure about the specific job.

After thinking for a moment, Eva replied, "It's not a good time to discuss it today. Are you available tomorrow?"

Henry nodded. "Then come directly to my office tomorrow to talk."

Eva was slightly taken aback, but she nodded. "Alright, thank you."

After scheduling a time with Henry, Samantha approached.

She waved at Eva and smiled, "Can I add you on WhatsApp?"

Eva was surprised that Samantha was willing to add her.

"Of course."

They exchanged contact information, and Samantha whispered, "So, did you really sleep with him?"

Upon hearing this, Eva's hand holding the phone trembled.

Without hesitation, she coldly replied, "I refuse to answer that question."

"Well then," Samantha didn't mind, shrugged her shoulders, and said, "I'll ask something else next time."

After bidding farewell to Samantha, Eva left the equestrian center.

Before leaving, she felt a sharp stare locked on her back, and it was obvious who it was.

She directly opened the taxi door and got in, leaving.

Back at her small company, Tim greeted her right away.

"Did you get satisfactory results?"

Eva glanced at him helplessly.

Tim asked, "Seems like the results weren't quite satisfactory?"

"Enough, stop talking," Eva said, taking a seat on the sofa. "We didn't discuss the investment issue at all today, but we've scheduled a meeting for tomorrow." Upon hearing the last sentence, Tim finally felt relieved.

"That's good. Have a good discussion tomorrow. You're smart and clever, so you'll definitely secure the investment."

Can she really secure the investment?

Eva found it difficult to imagine.

Thinking of something, Eva looked at Tim and asked, "Between Henry and Adrian, who's more formidable?"

This question instantly puzzled Tim.

"What do you mean, Boss? Why are you suddenly asking this?"

"Just answer honestly."

Because Tim knew about Eva and Adrian's past, he was struggling to figure out how to answer. If he praised Adrian too much, would Eva get angry? After all, she was now his current boss.

"What are you thinking?" Eva asked when he remained silent for a while.

Taking a deep breath, Tim said, "I'm wondering whether I should tell the truth or say something that will make you happy."

That answer was interesting.

Eva smirked and said, "Well, you better tell me the truth."

Tim "Boss, this is really difficult for me."

Upon hearing this, Eva raised an eyebrow, "Let's consider it as your management assessment for the first month at work."

"Well, it seems like I need to think about it carefully."

Tim stood still for a while, lost in thought, before speaking up, "In terms of experience, Adrian is naturally superior. After all, Henry is just a rookie in his eyes. But the newly appointed dark horse is full of momentum and potential. The business world is like a battlefield, and only the ones who can endure until the end are the winners."

Eva chuckled lightly at this response.

"Now I understand why you climbed up to the top management level in such a short time."

Tim smiled, "You flatter me, boss."

"And one more question. Do you think Henry would offend the Blackwood family for the sake of our small company?"

Upon hearing this, Tim hesitated.

"Is this question difficult to answer?"

"Boss, I think you are dissatisfied with the suggestions I gave you today, so you are questioning me at this time."

"So, you know that your suggestions would make me unhappy."

"There's nothing I can do, boss. The company needs operations and development." He reminded her, "It's your company." The last sentence reminded her.

"Yes, it is my company."

Therefore, even if she knew that the result might not be as she wished, she still had to try her best.

"It would be best if the boss understands this."

"Manager, besides the Davis Group, I want you to help me come up with a new list of companies."

"To attract investment." Eva smiled slightly. "Because tomorrow is likely to be a failure."

After a while, Tim looked at Eva, who was still pretending to smile, and asked in difficulty, "May I ask, boss, who did you meet today?"

"Don't you already have an idea in your mind?"

Tim said, "Did you really meet Mr. Blackwood? What a coincidence?"

"Yes, that's right. It was just a coincidence, and I offended him too."

Chicago is so big, she never thought she would meet him so many times in such a short time.

Tim suddenly didn't want to say anything. He thought she was asking those questions to trouble herself, but it turns out she really offended someone...

 

Chapter 230 Father Takes Them Away

Because she needed to pick up the children, Eva left the company early.

But when she arrived at the school, she was five minutes late.

The school teacher told her that the two children had already been picked up by their father.

Upon hearing this, Eva's face changed dramatically, and her voice became somewhat out of control.

"What did you say?? Father took them away?"

Where did Ruby and Dylan's father come from?

The school teacher was obviously startled by her loud voice and weakly said, "The one who registered the children with you on the first day. Isn't he Ruby and Dylan's father?" The one who came together on the first day of registration? Are they talking about Michael?

Upon hearing this, Eva I breathed a sigh of relief. So it was Michael that they were talking about, I thought Adrian found out and got worried.

"What's wrong? Ms. Hansen, you don't look well... Is there something bothering you?" the teacher asked hesitantly.

Eva came back to her senses and shook her head, "No, there's nothing wrong. Did I scare you just now? I thought I was being abducted by human traffickers."

"It's okay, it's okay if you're fine, Ms. Hansen. Take care on your way home."

After saying goodbye to the school teacher, Eva quickly returned home.

When she opened the door, she was greeted by the smell of food.

Eva took off her shoes at the entrance and as she walked into the living room, she could hear the voices of her two children talking inside the house.

In the kitchen, the nanny Luna, whom Michael had hired for her, was busy.

Upon hearing the noise, Luna turned around to greet her, "Ms. Hansen, you're back."

Hearing Luna's words, the two children instantly came out of their room.

"Mama!"

"Mama, you're back."

They both simultaneously hugged Eva's thighs, looking up at her with little faces.

Eva's heart melted instantly.

She bent down and hugged one child in each arm.

"How was school today? Did you have fun? Did you have any conflicts with your classmates?" she asked.

Both kids shook their heads at the same time, indicating they didn't.

While they were talking, Michael also walked out of the room. When his eyes landed on her, he noticed her loose hair and finally fixed his gaze on her red lips without saying a word.

Eva also noticed his gaze and patted the shoulders of the two kids, whispering, "Why don't you two go play by yourselves for now?"

After the two children left, Michael's gaze still lingered on her lips for a while. When he confirmed there was nothing unusual on them, his eyes moved up to meet hers.

The sound of the exhaust fan from the kitchen, as well as the fading voices of the two children, filled the air. Eva clenched her lips and hesitated on how to initiate the conversation.

Just as she was struggling, Michael softly inquired, "How was work today? Is there anything I can help with?"

Eva instinctively shook her head. "No, everything is fine."

She hesitated and struggled to speak, "Today..."

"If you don't want to talk about it, then don't." Michael interrupted her softly, smiling slightly. "Since I know you've already let go of it a long time ago, I won't doubt you. Besides, I'm still in my probationary period here, so I don't have the right to inquire about your affairs."

Upon hearing his words, Eva immediately felt relieved.

This was better. She didn't want to explain herself to anyone.

"Thank you," Eva smiled at him. She always felt indebted to Michael.

That night, Michael stayed for dinner.

After dinner, Luna finished cleaning and left.

Eva looked at the time and realized it wasn't early anymore, so she let the two children continue with their activities.

Before Eva could speak, Michael reached out and took off his gold-rimmed glasses, then smiled at her.

"Seems like it's getting late," he said. Eva subconsciously nodded in response. "It's not early either."

"The hotel is quite far from here, so can I stay at your place tonight? Of course, I'll pay for the room," he said.

Upon hearing him say that he would pay for the room, Eva found it absurd.

"Why pay for the room? This house was originally rented to us by you. It's just one night, so make yourself at home."

After speaking, Eva stood up directly and said, "I'll tidy up the room for you."

Michael also stood up. "No need for you to tidy up, I'll take care of it myself."

He followed Eva to the guest room. Since it was winter, they needed thick blankets and pillows to stay the night. Eva hadn't anticipated anyone else coming, so she had only prepared three sets of bedding, none of which were for Michael. She thought for a moment, then turned around and handed him her blanket.

"Why don't you use mine first, and I'll squeeze with Ruby tonight." "Alright," Michael said, being rather unceremonious as he took it.

"Thank you, Eva."

Eva forced a smile and didn't reply. Michael went back to the room with the blanket, while Eva stood still for a while before going to find Ruby.

When Ruby realized that she would be sleeping with her, she became extremely excited and held onto Eva's waist, unwilling to let go. "Mommy, can you tell Ruby a story before she falls asleep?"

Eva replied, "Hmm, if Ruby behaves well, Mommy can consider it."

"Mommy, how can Ruby behave well?"

"For example, Ruby can tell Mommy what she did at school today."

Throughout the day, due to Michael's presence, Eva hadn't had the chance to ask the two little ones about their experiences at school in detail.

This was also why she had been reluctant to find another half. The time Eva spent with the two kids alone wasn't enough for her.

"What did you do at school today?" Ruby lowered her head, seriously thinking back, and then raised it to tell Eva about everything she did at school today, one thing at a time.

Despite the little girl's limited communication skills and the fact that she had trouble speaking properly due to cavities caused by eating too many sweets, Eva still listened attentively, showing a gentle gaze and expression on her face. Occasionally, when the little girl paused, Eva would say a few words. Most of the time, she just listened to the little girl. Towards the end, Ruby suddenly stopped and added, "Mommy, today when Uncle Michael came to pick us up, many kids thought he was our dad."

Hearing this, a gentle smile appeared on Eva's lips.

"What?"

"Before, everyone thought that Ruby and her brother didn't have a father and wanted to mock us. The teacher defended us several times, but they didn't believe it. But today, Uncle Michael went, even though Uncle Michael is not our father, they shouldn't dare to make fun of Ruby and her brother anymore, right?"