Ch. 1041..1050

Chapter 1041

Chapter 1041

As expected, Mary brought her daughter over for "medical help" to treat her irregular menstruation the next morning.

Mary believed that this would bring Zuko and her daughter closer, as he wouldn't need to check her pulse during holistic healing.

She confidently smiled while her daughter looked at Zuko with allure, her dark freckles on her face forming a smile.

Conveniently shaking the golden bangles on her wrist, she placed her arm on the table.

Zuko frowned, trying to hide his urge to laugh.

He stayed still, stealing glances at Lina, who stood beside him.

Lina's stern face was both terrifying and cute, especially her pouty, moist, and pink lips that made him recall the taste of the "cotton candy" from the other day.

Just as Mary had Zuko check her daughter's pulse, Lina slammed two marriage certificates on the table!

The mother and daughter were shocked, their eyes wide open as they looked at Lina.

Lina showed her firm stance, lacking the usual gentleness in her beautiful doe eyes, which were now filled with suppressed anger.

Mary smiled shyly, feeling guilty as she glanced at the marriage certificates.

It was uncertain whether Lina was smiling or not. "Mrs. Nash, why don't I check your daughter's pulse? I've learned many things from being with my husband every day. Your daughter has a woman's problem, and a man like him won't be able to cure it. Why don't I do it?"

Mary widened her eyes, guilt and fear welling up as she looked into Lina's eyes that seemed to hide knives. She quickly refused and hurriedly ran out, dragging her daughter along.

Zuko burst into laughter and reached out to grab Lina's hand. However, she shook his hand off.

"What's wrong?" Zuko asked innocently. "I didn't check her pulse. I didn't even look at her!"

While it was true that he hadn't looked at her, the latter's eyes had been fixed on him!

Lina was furious but knew she was being unreasonable. After a moment of calm, she turned around slowly, still devoid of a smile.

"What's wrong?" Zuko ran his fingers through her hair and whispered with a smile, "The first round of the 'husband defense contest' has ended. Lina won!"

"You..." Lina playfully punched him.

However, her expression dimmed when she noticed the marriage certificates on the table out of the corner of her eye.

Sensing the change in her demeanor, Zuko approached and checked. "What's wrong?"

Lina spoke in a flat tone. "It's fake, after all..."

"It won't be fake forever!" Zuko hurriedly interjected. "Your mom said that after I pass her test in a year and a half, we'll replace the certificates with the real ones!" Lina was stunned. "We still have to wait... a year and a half?"

"We can go right away if you want!"

"Get out of here!" Lina blushed and pushed him away, smiling with her head lowered.

A year and a half was neither long nor short.

By then, Lina would have graduated from university.

After wearing her graduation gown, she would put on a wedding gown. She would spend the rest of her life with him, just like her parents did... That would be the greatest happiness. Zuko held her shoulders, stared at her, and chuckled. "I think Mrs. Nash's daughter is fine, but you're not."

"What do you mean?"

"Lina..." He whispered in her ear. "I have a magic pill."

"What nonsense are you talking about?"

"I'm serious!"

Zuko grinned and kissed her, catching her off guard!

Her heart raced from the unexpected kiss. Her hands instinctively grasped his broad shoulders, and her body responded without much thought.

Chapter 1042

Chapter 1042

"How's it?" Zuko released his lips after a long time. "Does the 'magic pill' cure everything?"

Lina blushed and buried herself in his embrace, avoiding eye contact.

However, a commotion erupted at the door. Dave rushed in...

Lina's expression changed, and she quickly pushed Zuko away.

"Mr. Door Guardian!" Dave appeared flustered. "I heard everything you said when I was out there!"

Zuko was taken aback. "What... did you hear?"

"You have a magic pill that cures everything!"

Zuko looked uncomfortable and remained silent.

"You managed to heal my dad, bro. I trust in your medical skills, and I believe there's definitely such a pill that exists in this world! Can it fix my foot?" asked Dave. "No, no..." Zuko started sweating. "I—"

"Bro,

I hurt my foot playing basketball yesterday. My ankle is still swollen. Let me try the pill!" insisted Dave.

Zuko looked like he was on the verge of collapse as he glanced at Lina, who was struggling to hold back her laughter.

Suddenly, a voice called out "Zeke" from the alley while Dave was still bewildered.

Lina was stunned, and she locked eyes with Zuko. They both recognized the familiar voice.

As expected, a familiar face soon appeared...

"Ha, Mr. Zeke and Ms. Lina... You sure made me sweat looking for you!"

Fred appeared somewhat pale as he held onto the door. Even his smile seemed forced.

Zuko furrowed his brow and instinctively positioned himself in front of Lina. He asked in his deep voice, "Why are you here?"

"Don't worry. I'm not here to cause trouble." Fred appeared tired.

At that moment, his assistant approached and respectfully explained, "Mr. Grist heard that Mr. Zeke is knowledgeable about holistic healing. We're here for an examination." "You heard?" Lina poked her head out. "Where did you hear it from?"

The assistant smiled. "Didn't he treat all the elderly in the entire alley? Someone from the Grists lives nearby, and we heard it through word of mouth."

Zuko and Lina exchanged glances.

It didn't sound like a lie, but it was suspicious. With Fred's status, he could easily go to the hospital if he was unwell. He had access to the best medical resources, so why was he here?

"This might surprise you. The hospital couldn't find anything wrong with me, but I'm really not feeling well... Today, while I was working on a bidding plan in the office, I suddenly felt dizzy and nearly fainted. One of my subordinates recommended a 'magic doctor' in this alley. I only discovered it was you when I arrived here!"

Zuko's eyes darkened.

He blamed himself for being too conspicuous in healing Jesse so quickly. It made sense that Melissa was spreading the word with pride.

However, Zuko discreetly observed Fred's complexion...

It was indeed below par.

His grandfather had taught him that healing was a doctor's calling. Although Zuko wasn't a doctor, he had learned a great deal about medicine by shadowing his grandfather from a young age. Since Fred was unwell, he decided to examine him.

Zuko faked a cough and gestured for Fred to sit at the table, asking him to present his wrist.

The pulse check didn't take long, but each minute and second felt excruciatingly long to Fred.

Every time Zuko frowned, glanced away, or cleared his throat, Fred imagined he had a terminal illness.

"Mr. Zeke..." Fred asked cautiously. "Am I okay?"

Zuko appeared relaxed as he glanced at Fred and spoke. "There's something, but it's minor. The hospitals focus on Western medicine and rely heavily on machines. They often overlook small issues like the one you have."

Fred felt relieved upon hearing the phrase "small issues". He asked, "Then what is it..."

"Specifically, your energy and blood levels are low. There's a stagnation of energy in your liver, and you have kidney deficiency!"

"Ahem..." Fred nearly covered his mouth in embarrassment.

Fred half-covered his face and signaled Zuko with an exaggerated expression. "Do you really have to announce that I have kidney deficiency in front of everyone?"

Chapter 1043

Chapter 1043

Zuko regained his composure and glanced at Fred, scoffing slightly. "Didn't you ask me if you're okay? I was just telling the truth..."

"Okay, okay!" Fred was sweating nervously. "Um... Zeke, can we talk about my illness alone?"

Zuko considered it for a moment and stood up. He followed Fred to his car, which was parked at the entrance of the alley. He had brought a needle with him.

Zuko repeated everything he had discovered from checking Fred's pulse inside the car.

After listening, Fred nodded in understanding.

In truth, before coming to Zuko, Fred had visited a holistic doctor. He had sought Zuko out to verify if the rumors about his abilities were true. Additionally, Fred had heard that the president of the Southeast Aciatic Medical Association doted on his grandson. Not only had he passed on his knighthood to him, but he had also taught him everything about holistic healing...

Fred wanted to test whether Zeke was truly Zuko!

As he listened to Zuko naming his illness and explaining its causes, Fred was taken aback. He couldn't believe that everything Zuko said aligned perfectly with the diagnosis from the holistic doctor he had seen, despite Zuko being so young!

If Zuko hadn't inherited his knowledge from somewhere, which young holistic doctor could possess such abilities?

Fred's frown deepened, and doubt grew in his eyes.

He then asked in a testing manner, "Zeke, what should I do about this?"

"Don't always be angry, and take care of your health. Eat well, sleep better, and you should recover," Zuko replied with a smirk. Suddenly, he recalled a pill from Irwin Pharmaceuticals in Southeast Aciatic. Rowan used to send them to Zephyr from time to time. When Zuko was young, he didn't recall seeing them, but as he grew older, the packages from Southeast Aciatic became more frequent. His father also started throwing away the pills more often.

Zephyr would always exclaim, "Why would I need these?" and then instruct the maids to dispose of them as far away as possible.

Zuko sighed. He wasted so much good stuff back then! His father did not need them, but many men in the world did, such as the person in front of him.

Zuko looked at Fred and noticed that he had been staring at the box with the needle in his pocket.

Zuko was alert and shoved the box deeper into his pocket subtly.

"Mr. Grist, in reality, there are many things you should let go of. 80% of illnesses are caused by emotions," Zuko calmly stated.

Fred scoffed. "Ha! I'd like to be happy too! I've been shouldering all the burdens in the family for years. I've put in so much effort, and that damned girl Violet has ruined everything! Tell me, how can I not be mad and hurt my liver?"

Zuko's eyes flickered with complexity as he replied in his deep voice, "Since you feel it's unfair, try doing something about it. Mr. Grist, you're superior to Violet in terms of connections and abilities, so why are you tormenting yourself?"

Fred's eyes lit up. "Zeke, you're not just a simple truck driver to be so wise!"

"But I'm just an ordinary man." Zuko smiled. "To my Lina, I'm just a regular husband. I have weaknesses and impulses like any normal person... Mr. Grist, do you understand what I'm trying to say?" Fred's heart tightened. Was Zuko referring to the fact that if Fred crossed his boundaries, Zuko would respond with "impulse" without hesitation, even resorting to violence?

In shock, Fred nodded while Zuko smiled and exited the car.

Before Zuko reached home, he received a call from Toph, asking if he could come home for a while.

Zuko furrowed his brow. He had to, as he needed to make an effort to obtain some of his mother's antique jewelry for Lina...

Thus, he agreed.

On the day Zuko arrived in Centrolis, Toph informed him, "Pammy was sick earlier, so I used the excuse of acting as a caregiver to visit the Thompsons. I finally managed to enter the princess' room!" Zuko furrowed his brow. "Do you even know how to be a caregiver?"

Toph scratched his head and smiled innocently. "That's not the point. I... I stole her mug, but she didn't notice!"

"You got her sample?" asked Zuko.

"I did, but something strange happened..." Toph's expression turned serious as he handed over a DNA report.

Zuko reviewed the report and saw that the result was-a 99% match. "W-What is this?"

"What else? She's the real Pammy!" Toph pouted. "Bro, do you think we got it wrong from the beginning? Maybe Pammy couldn't get used to it, which is why she avoided me?" "Impossible!" Zuko stated firmly.

In truth, Zuko had a peculiar feeling ever since he first saw Pammy.

"So what do we do now, bro?" asked Toph.

"We stop the investigation." Zuko pondered for a moment and then had an epiphany. He grabbed his brother and asked, "What if... someone tampered with the DNA report?" Toph's eyes widened. "What are you suggesting?"

"I'm saying there might be someone with malicious intent trying to hinder us from uncovering the truth. What do you think?"

"Bro, do you mean..."

Zuko looked into Toph's eyes and nodded.

"So the investigation must continue." Zuko spoke with a deep voice. "But we need to reconsider and change our strategy. It might still work."

Toph furrowed his brow deeply, and something suddenly came to his mind after a brief silence.

"Oh, yeah!" Toph grabbed his brother. "When Pammy was drifting in and out of her illness, I stayed with her. I heard her calling out 'mom'!" "So, she was calling Aunt Linda?" asked Zuko.

"I don't think so..." Toph lowered his voice. "Right after that, she mentioned something about a kidney donor... Bro, does Aunt Linda need a new kidney?"

Chapter 1044

Chapter 1044

Toph recounted everything from the beginning, causing Zuko to squint slightly. "So, you're saying you took Pammy's mug?" "Yes, I took it without anyone noticing, and I made sure to handle it carefully. The sample on it is definitely hers," Toph confirmed. "And then you sent the sample along with Uncle Nicholas'?" inquired Zuko.

"Yes!" Toph raised an eyebrow. "Getting his sample was easy. I sent it to our hospital, keeping everything within our control!" Zuko contemplated for a moment. "You mentioned visiting Pammy at the hospital. Did she make any calls while she was there?"

Toph had a sudden realization. "Hmm? Was she calling someone in the hospital during her illness?"

Zuko nodded, his eyes filled with depth. "We can't jump to conclusions before we find out the truth. Besides, she was adopted before returning. It's possible she was calling her adoptive mother out of habit." "You're always so cautious, bro!" Toph stretched his body and spoke casually. "What more is there to find out? The truth is right in front of us!"

"Our father taught us to be thorough, didn't he?" Zuko stated matter-of-factly.

"Hehe... You take everything our father says so seriously!" Toph grinned, leaning closer to Zuko. "Did he also teach you to hide your true identity and pursue a romantic relationship?"

"You!" Zuko snarled.

"Bro, where are you guys now? Have you done anything other than kissing her?" Toph teasingly asked.

"Toph Hamerton!" Zuko thundered.

Soon, sounds of chaos erupted from Toph's room.

The maids giggled while standing on the stairs. Wendy, who had raised the brothers, couldn't help but feel sympathy for Toph.

"Zuko always hits Toph whenever he's back. He's merciless... How will Toph find a wife if he breaks him!?"

"Don't worry, Wendy!" someone said while smiling. "Toph has been close with the Thompson princess lately. They're perfect for each other!"

Zuko walked out of the room while they continued their discussion. He coolly adjusted his collar and sleeves as he descended the stairs.

The servants, who had been smiling moments ago, quickly put on respectful expressions and greeted him, saying, "Sir!"

They then resumed their tasks.

As Zuko made his way down, he could hear Toph groaning intermittently from the room.

Pursing his lips, Zuko smiled and headed straight to his parents.

Cordelia was seated next to the floor-to-ceiling window, sipping tea and engrossed in a book. Zephyr sat beside her, feeding her slices of orange and gazing at her with an affectionate smile. Cordelia turned around and rewarded Zephyr with a gentle caress on his face, her own smile warm and tender.

While watching their intimate moment, Zuko's mind drifted to a certain someone. He couldn't help but recall Lina burying her blushing cheeks in his embrace, her sweet fragrance, and her pout when she was jealous.

A pang of longing gripped Zuko's heart. He wished Lina were by his side at that moment.

"Zuko?" Cordelia exclaimed, pleasantly surprised to see her son standing at the door. She pushed the slice of orange Zephyr had offered aside and beckoned him with a bright smile. "When did you come home, son? Come here!"

Zuko smiled and swiftly approached his mother. Taking a seat, he glanced at his father expectantly.

"Why are you frozen?" Cordelia nudged Zephyr playfully. "Our son wants to have a slice of orange. Feed him! Didn't you already peel it?"

Zephyr's expression darkened, but he reluctantly fed the slice of orange to his son. "You're a grown man, yet you want your father to feed you!"

Zuko couldn't help but feel smug, adding fuel to the fire. "Look, mom. Dad is complaining about me again!"

"You b*satard! Zephyr was complaining but placed the peeled orange on the transparent plate as he spoke. "Eat more if you like. They're flown from Southeast Aciatic this morning!"

Zuko smiled. He sat between his parents and grabbed their arms as if he were back when he was young and worry-free.

"Did you just return today?" asked Zephyr

Zuko nodded. "I went to Toph. I'm sorry for not having greeted my parents first!"

Zephyr and Cordelia looked at each other and smiled. They knew he had not returned just to visit them. There must be something else.

Chapter 1045

Chapter 1045

"Do you really think we don't know what you guys are plotting?" Zephyr questioned.

Zuko addressed his parents, saying, "Dad, mom..."

"Alright, let's cut to the chase," Cordelia interjected gently. "Your father and I have had doubts about Pammy's identity. We held back because we didn't want to hurt Nicholas and Linda."

Zuko paused. "Mom, Toph and I suspect something is seriously wrong with Melvin. But when Toph met Pammy and obtained a sample for a DNA test, it matched Uncle Nicholas's! "So I suspect someone may have tampered with it."

"There are numerous doctors at the joint hospital. It's unlikely that all of them are loyal to the Hamertons," Cordelia remarked. "If someone with malicious intent wanted to bribe a couple of them, it would be easy."

"But the important thing is not to alert the enemy before the truth is revealed." Zephyr chimed in with a smile. "I've taught you both about throwing feints in boxing. Feint first before delivering the knockout blow! This principle applies in life as well."

"Understood." Zuko nodded.

Zuko felt fortunate to be part of such a family. His parents had complete trust in him and offered their support. They even guided him on what to do.

Deeply touched, Zuko couldn't help but give Cordelia a tight hug reminiscent of their earlier days.

Zuko wanted to hug his father next, but Zephyr playfully grabbed his arms. "Hey, hey, hey! We're adults... What are you doing?"

Zuko chuckled and passed his mother back to his father.

Zuko now understood that his father would never feel secure without his mother by his side. It was a feeling he couldn't fully grasp before, but now that he had Lina, it resonated even more strongly than his father's.

"Alright, you two can display your affection once I'm gone!" Zuko mischievously gazed at them. Then, he playfully squatted in front of Cordelia, flashing a pleading smile. "But before I leave, mom, I need something..."

"What's the matter?" Cordelia inquired, her gaze following Zuko's fixed stare at her vanity stand, specifically at the antique agarwood box placed on it.

A realization dawned on Cordelia. "What are you up to?"

Zuko grinned slyly, like a cunning fox. "Mom... I've noticed you don't wear jewelry often, do you?"

"Indeed," Cordelia responded, intrigued. "And why does that concern you?"

Zuko's grin widened. "It's such a shame that you don't wear them! So, I'll help you—"

Before Zephyr could intervene, Cordelia's palm met Zuko's face with a resounding slap.

Wincing and cradling his head, Zuko was stunned, his face reflecting disbelief. His father had often been the one to strike him since childhood, but today marked the first time his mother had hit him. "Mom?" he uttered, bewildered.

"Zuko!" Cordelia rolled up her sleeves, her demeanor becoming assertive. "Your father gifted me those pieces of jewelry. They are more precious to me than my own life! Don't you dare covet them, do you understand?"

Zuko responded in a state of confusion.

"It's unlike you to suddenly ask me for things!" Cordelia continued to probe. "Tell me the truth, Zuko. Did you meet a girl in Jangasas to whom you want to give a piece of jewelry?"

Zuko's heart tightened. He looked up at his mother, wearing a forced smile.

Cordelia felt a mix of anger and amusement at having guessed his intentions correctly.

However, there was a hint of concern in her mind.

Her eldest son had always been slow in matters of love. As he grew up, he was constantly surrounded by celebrities. Whenever gossip spread, Zuko remained silent like a fool, allowing himself to become someone else's stepping stone.

The person who had managed to captivate him must possess a certain level of capability...

But if that girl didn't take their relationship seriously, it could be a devastating blow to Zuko, considering his lack of experience and stubborn nature.

Cordelia feared her son would be hurt, so she approached the subject cautiously. "Do you truly have feelings for someone? Who is she? Do you have a picture? Why don't you bring her home to introduce her to us?"

Chapter 1046

Chapter 1046

"Not yet!" Zuko immediately rejected the idea.

He hadn't revealed his true identity to Lina yet. What would she think if he brought her home like that?

However, Zuko felt relieved upon hearing his mother's response. It seemed his parents were not insistent on him marrying Pamela.

Zuko stammered as he explained, "Um, mom, I'll bring her home when the time is right... She's a good girl. I guarantee you'll like her when you meet her!"

"Really?" Zephyr chimed in, joining the conversation. He glanced at Zuko and chuckled. "My son is finally all grown up!"

Zuko was left speechless. "Dad..."

Zephyr placed his hand on Zuko's shoulder. "Son, we have a marriage agreement with the Thompsons. Although we're not sure if this Pammy is the real one, Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda want the two of you to be together.

"But your mom and I will find an opportunity to talk about it with them. Even if we want the marriage to happen, we must ensure that the girl is their Pammy!"

"Mm-hmm." Zuko looked at his parents gratefully.

Although what he was about to say sounded cheesy, he hugged them and smiled. "I'm so lucky to be your son."

"Alright!" Cordelia patted his back. She checked the time and realized it was time to bake.

She quickly put down her book and headed to the desert glasshouse on the top-floor platform.

As Zuko was leaving, he felt his father poking him after watching his mother walk away.

"Hmm?" He was taken aback and saw the agarwood box in his father's hand. "Dad, what..."

"Besides the emerald ring, take everything in there!" Zephyr said with a smile. "The ring is your mom's favorite, so I can't let you take it. You can take the rest to please the girl you like." "But what will happen if she finds out?" asked Zuko.

"What else? She'll just deduct my allowance at most!" replied Zephyr.

Zuko stared at his father in disbelief, his amusement evident in a chuckle that escaped his lips. How could his father, who owned the entire Hamertons, be lacking in money? It was perplexing to him. Yet, Zephyr had been requesting an allowance from Cordelia all his life. One was willing to endure torture, while the other was willing to suffer. Perhaps it was another form of true love.

"Forget it!" Zuko declared, reaching into the box and selecting a bangle, the renowned Le Esse. "Dad, I'll just take this. You can put the box back now."

"That's all?" Zephyr was taken aback. "Would the girl be satisfied?"

"Lina isn't materialistic," Zuko assured him.

"Ah, I see." Zephyr playfully teased his son. "I'm sure you haven't revealed your true identity to her, have you? Ha, don't you know I used to pull off this trick too?"

Putting the box away, Zephyr bounded upstairs like an excited child, ready to bake with his wife.

Zuko pouted but realized there was no use arguing. He could only make a silly face at his father's retreating figure.

The following day, Zephyr and Cordelia took their two sons to visit Pamela at the Thompsons'. Melvin was already there, and they greeted each other with courtesy.

"It's my fault, cousin!" Melvin expressed guilt. "Why did I take Pammy on the cable car ride that day!? She's timid, and the height must have frightened her, causing her to develop a fever!"

"Don't blame yourself. It's not your fault," Nicholas reassured him with a smile, inviting him to have some tea. "Pammy has spent years away from home, and she wasn't properly cared for. She's weak. Ultimately, it's my failure as a father to take care of my daughter."

"Don't say that, Uncle Nicholas," Toph interjected, pausing his game console and sitting up attentively. He glanced at Nicholas and then at Melvin, a cryptic smile playing on his lips. "Uncle Melvin, do you think Pammy was scared of the cable car or perhaps... the hospital?"

Melvin's expression changed drastically as he glared fiercely at Toph.

"What?" Nicholas was taken aback. "Pammy went to the hospital?"

"Oh, so she wants to go to medical school?" Melvin explained with a smile. "I thought I could go to the hospital and find some people I know to help her with her studies!"

Toph responded sarcastically. "Oh, definitely for studying! But Uncle Melvin, if Pammy really wants to go to medical school, we have plenty of doctors at our hospital. Maybe she should stay with us!"

Melvin smiled, but his words were strained as he clenched his teeth. "No need for the trouble, Toph."

Toph returned the smile, noticing the panic in Melvin's expression.

At that moment, Linda's voice called out, "Come here, Pammy. Your friends are here to see you!"

Zuko and Toph turned their heads simultaneously.

They saw Linda holding Pammy's hand as they entered the living room. It was evident that Pammy had recently recovered from an illness, as she didn't look well. She appeared shy when she glanced at them. Her eyes widened, especially when she saw Melvin, and she immediately looked down as if she had done something wrong.

"Don't be afraid, Pammy," Linda reassured, gripping her daughter's hand tightly. "Look, Zuko and Toph are here. They'll accompany you outside, okay?"

Zuko and Toph stood up simultaneously.

Linda still held hope for the marriage agreement, so she nudged her daughter toward Zuko.

To everyone's surprise, Pammy looked at Toph and slowly walked toward him. She reached out her tiny hand to hold onto his arm...

Everyone was taken aback, saying, "Huh? What's going on?"

"Eh? Come again!?" exclaimed Toph.

Chapter 1047

Chapter 1047

Toph's arm froze, and he stood motionless in place. "Pammy..."

Pamela's voice was soft and sweet as she spoke. "I want Toph to accompany me."

"What?" Toph felt himself breaking into a sweat.

How did Toph manage to get himself into this trouble?

However, as Toph lowered his head, he couldn't help but be moved by Pamela's innocent, doe-like eyes.

There was fear and shyness in her gaze, yet it also conveyed a complete trust in him.

Toph pursed his lips, relaxing his body, and said, "T-Then I'll take her somewhere to play."

The parents looked confused, but Zuko was beaming with happiness. "Okay, go! Take your time!"

Toph widened his eyes as Pamela practically pushed him out of the house.

"W-What just happened?" Linda looked at the two of them, feeling lost. Then she turned to Zuko. "Zuko, shouldn't you—"

"Linda, this is something we wanted to discuss with you, but we didn't know how to bring it up," Cordelia said, taking Linda's hands and chuckling. "Regarding the marriage agreement we mentioned before, it was just a whim... We shouldn't interfere too much in our children's relationships. What do you think?"

Linda was stunned and glanced at Nicholas.

Deep down, she secretly thought that Zuko was mature, wise, and capable. He seemed like the perfect son-in-law.

However, they had gone through great efforts to find their daughter, and Linda didn't want to stir up any conflict because of it.

Nicholas remained carefree, just like when he was young. He smirked and placed his hand on his wife's shoulder. "That's right. Let our daughter go for whoever she likes! After all, both brothers are Hamertons!"

Linda patted him on the back, smiling.

Cordelia and Zephyr exchanged glances, hesitating.

With Melvin present, there were certain things that were hard to express openly.

As they continued their conversation in the living room, Cordelia subtly tested Linda's relationship with their daughter.

Linda forced a smile and whispered, "It feels as if we're... strangers."

Cordelia's eyes widened. "How so?"

Linda sighed. "After 20 years, I've been absent as her mother for all that time. I didn't take care of her and let her suffer so much... It's understandable that we're not close."

"No need to worry about that, cousin-in-law!" Melvin chimed in with a smile. "Pammy is a good girl. You both are her parents, after all. Once she gets to know you, she'll surely grow closer to you. But, um... I have an idea, but I'm unsure if I should share it."

Nicholas was intrigued. "What is it?"

Looking around cautiously, Melvin continued. "Girls her age love to have fun! And what do they need for that? Money, of course! Nic, Linda, if you give her enough money and let her live like a princess, she'll realize the power of money and grow closer to you."

Zuko scoffed before Nicholas and Linda could respond.

"Not a bad idea, Uncle Melvin!"

Zuko looked up, a chilling gleam in his eyes. His smile seemed capable of freezing someone in their tracks.

Melvin felt a pang of guilt as their gazes met. His hand trembled, causing his teacup to shake.

Zuko said slowly, "Uncle Melvin, you haven't spent much time with Pammy, so how would you know she's a playful girl? Does she really need money, or is it... someone else who needs money?" "W-What are you saying?" Melvin stammered, sweat forming on the tip of his nose. "I'm just suggesting an idea. Who do you think I am, you stupid kid?"

"I just like to believe that you're a man of justice and helpfulness!" Zuko smiled. "Why are you so nervous, Uncle Melvin?"

Melvin bit his lip, looking visibly troubled.

Linda called the maid to bring some snacks before she spoke again. "Pammy doesn't care about money at all. Melvin, I did as you suggested. It didn't work!"

"Oh, really?" Melvin clenched his hands by his sides, trying to maintain his composure. "How so?"

"To cheer her up, Nic and I transferred a portion of Sol Entertainment's shares to her two days ago. We asked her to work at the office, to learn about society... But no matter what we did, she refused to sign the agreement and said she didn't want our money."

Linda's voice was filled with sadness as she addressed Cordelia, "Do you think Pammy doesn't want to accept me as her mother?"

Chapter 1048

Chapter 1048

Cordelia comforted Linda for a while before lifting her eyes and noticing Melvin's grim face.

She swiftly kicked Zephyr's foot under the table and signaled him.

Zephyr quickly caught on to Melvin's expression, and the couple exchanged knowing smiles. They had a rough idea now. It didn't matter if it was the legitimate Pammy or not. Melvin was undoubtedly the mastermind behind everything.

As they left the house, Renee stopped the bodyguards from following them. She grabbed Toph's hand and hurriedly ran toward the beach. If she didn't do this, Toph would never believe that such a pale and weak body could possess such power!

When they reached the beach, even the strong second grandson of the Hamertons felt fatigued. But Renee remained unaffected. Her vacant eyes stared coldly at the foggy sea. Renee bit her lip, her body trembling.

Toph cautiously approached her. "Pammy, are you okay?"

Her body instinctively trembled upon hearing him call her "Pammy".

Renee wrapped her arms around herself and slowly sank down on the sandy beach. After a long while, she finally turned her face to look at him. Her lips moved, and she spoke softly. "Toph..."

Toph's expression turned serious, "Pammy, have you gotten yourself into trouble? Tell me, I promise to help you!"

Their eyes met.

Renee was teetering on the edge of collapse. Pretending to be someone else was torturous, and she had come to realize that the two brothers were incredibly astute. She couldn't deceive them any longer. Rather than being exposed, Renee would rather confess herself.

And so, she had pretended not to notice when Toph discreetly stole her mug.

Renee had believed that the DNA report would reveal the truth, but she never anticipated that Melvin would tamper with Nicholas' sample and use his instead. Melvin and Renee were father and daughter, connected by blood, so the DNA report had deceived everyone again.

Her eyes turned red, and she took a deep breath, reassuring herself that it would all come to an end. She pulled Toph aside to explain herself. "Toph, I need to tell you something..."

Toph looked at her in silence, attentive to her every word.

Suddenly, a phone call interrupted the peace.

Renee snapped back to reality and retrieved her phone from her pocket. The unknown number on the screen froze her in place.

Renee glanced at Toph and moved a distance away. She only dared to answer the call after making sure Toph wasn't following her and couldn't hear her conversation.

"Hello?"

"You disobedient girl!" The man on the other end gritted his teeth. "You dare defy me! Well, I'm heading to the hospital to remove your mother's oxygen mask now!"

"No..." Renee pleaded, lowering her voice. "I'll do whatever you ask. Please, just let my mother go!"

There was silence on the other end.

"I haven't gone against you!" Renee hurriedly explained. "I brought Toph along to... build a closer relationship with him. I can secure a portion of the Hamerton Group for you in the future..."

"Hmph! How can I trust your intentions?" Melvin growled. "I'll give you one more chance. You must ensure Linda signs the transfer of shares this week. I'll have someone watching you. And remember, if you dare to pull any tricks, I'll kill your mother!"

Renee trembled as she hung up the call. Someone tapped her shoulder from behind, causing her to scream in fright.

Toph frowned, his expression filled with mixed emotions as he looked at her.

Although he hadn't listened to the conversation, her facial expressions gave him an inkling of what had transpired.

As if awoken from a shocking dream, Renee burst into tears and threw herself into Toph's arms.

"I'm scared." Renee sobbed. "I'm really scared."

Toph collected his emotions and hesitantly lifted his hand, gently patting her head. "I'm here. Everything will be alright."

Chapter 1049

Chapter 1049

After spending only a few days at home, Zuko hurried back to Jangasas.

As soon as he arrived, Zuko presented the bangle to Lina as if offering her a prize.

Lina was both surprised and pleased. "What's this?" she asked.

Before Zuko left, Lina had jokingly asked him to bring back something from Centrolis for her. It could have been a simple keychain-she just wanted a token to show that he had thought of her. Never did Lina expect that Zuko would bring back such an expensive bangle.

The jade bangle, adorned with gold, was exquisite and of high quality. Although Lina knew little about jade, she could tell at a glance that it was valuable.

As Lina hesitated whether to accept it, Zuko chuckled and took her hand, sliding the bangle onto her wrist.

"This is a family heirloom," Zuko explained. "My mom said that my wife should take care of it!"

Lina's eyes widened. "Really?"

"Yes! She even mentioned that she wants to meet you!" Zuko added.

"That's not what I'm asking about," Lina clarified.

Confused, Zuko nodded and smiled. "Well, actually, it's not anything precious... It's not expensive at all. Just wear it! I brought it back to show you my sincerity."

"What sincerity?" Lina asked, though she already knew the answer. She blushed as soon as the words left her mouth.

Seizing the opportunity, Zuko inched closer and wrapped his arms around her waist.

After spending time together, Zuko finally felt comfortable openly entering Lina's room.

Furthermore, Lina's family had coordinated their efforts this time. Dave had gone to his tuition class while her parents had offered to take care of the store. They were the only ones at home. Zuko felt a surge of excitement as he caught a whiff of Lina's fragrance.

"Lina..." Zuko's deep voice carried a smile. "Do you truly not understand the significance of me giving this to you?"

"I don't. Explain it to me," Lina replied.

"Of course." Zuko grinned and leaned in for a kiss.

Unable to resist, Lina was swept away as soon as their lips met.

Once one tasted something sweet, they'd crave it every day.

No matter what Lina said, Zuko was willing to solve any problem with a kiss.

If one kiss wasn't enough, he'd kiss her two times, three times...

Lina pushed against his chest, and Zuko firmly grasped her wrists, pressing her against the desk. He was fully committed.

However, their intimate moment was interrupted by a voice. "Lina, are you home?"

Lina's heart raced, and she quickly pushed Zuko away.

Gia's voice echoed from downstairs. "Lina, I came in because your door was open!"

"Oh... alright!" Lina hurried downstairs, finding Gia already in the living room, smiling and greeting her.

However, Gia's smile froze upon seeing Zuko behind Lina. She forced a smile and asked, "Is your husband home too?"

"That's correct," Zuko replied with an impassive expression. "I am her husband. Where else would I be if not at home?"

Gia felt awkward and stumbled with her words, "Oh, I meant... Lina told me you're usually at the store, so I assumed you weren't home!"

Zuko ignored her comment while Lina stepped in to diffuse the situation. "Is there anything that I can help you with, Gia?"

"What? You don't want me anymore now that you have your husband?" Gia said, smiling. "I thought I'd ask you out today! I heard they opened a new shopping mall in the development zone. Let's go together?" Lina hesitated. She wasn't really keen on going.

It was a new area, sparsely populated and mostly undeveloped. It had taken a couple of years just to build a shopping mall. If something were to happen there, the police wouldn't be able to respond quickly. Lina found it odd. Gia loved crowded places, yet she chose to shop in a virtually empty mall. Why would she do that?

Despite her reservations, Lina didn't want to disappoint Gia's enthusiasm.

"Give me a minute... I'll change," Lina said.

"Okay!"

As Lina turned around, Gia noticed something on her wrist. "Hey, Lina, what's that?"

Lina looked down and chuckled. "It's a gift from Zeke. How do you like it?"

Gia was taken aback. She could tell it was expensive with just a glance. Wasn't Zeke just a regular truck driver? How could he afford something like that? "Yes, it's beautiful!" Gia began to feel suspicious but played along. "Lina, can I see it?"

Lina felt reluctant. She glanced at Zuko and reluctantly took it off.

Gia's eyes lit up.

It could fetch a huge price if it was put up for auction!

Gia pushed the boundaries. "Lina, can I try it on?"

"What?"

"I said I want to wear it!" Gia smiled. "Girls can't resist pretty accessories. I'd like to see how your bangle looks on my wrist. You don't mind, do you, Lina?" The smile on Lina's face froze, and her expression gradually changed.

How could Gia know that Lina would mind?

Lina did mind. The Hamertons had given it to her, and she couldn't allow someone else to wear it.

Lina chuckled. "Gina, I'll put it on for you if you want to see how it looks on your wrist!"

"Hey..."

"See? There you go!" Lina looked into Gia's eyes after demonstrating. "My husband gave this to me, so I don't want anyone else touching it. "Gia, I'm sure you understand, right?"

Chapter 1050

Chapter 1050

Gia froze, feeling the weight of Lina's refusal for the first time since they had become friends.

Zuko, who had been silent, was surprised by Lina's unexpected response. He had thought that she would prioritize her best friend and give the bangle to Gia. That's why he had tried to stop her earlier. Lina's response exceeded Zuko's expectations and warmed his heart. He couldn't help but feel a glimmer of surprise in his eyes.

Gia smiled awkwardly, her emotions flickering as she looked at the couple before her. But she quickly regained her composure and changed her approach. "I understand that you value this bangle a lot, and I'm not refusing to give it back to you after trying it on. So... can I at least take a photo?"

Gia knew that Lina had a soft heart, and with a pitiful expression, she believed Lina would agree. After all, it was just a bangle. What harm could there be in taking a photo of it?

Although Gia couldn't explain why, she had a gut feeling that this bangle was extraordinary and wanted Melvin to know about it. With that thought in mind, she smiled lightly and reached out to hold Lina's arm. However, Lina evaded her touch, calmly removing the bangle and placing it into Zuko's hand. She smiled at Gia and said, "Zeke, it's better to keep such a valuable item safe to prevent any damage."

Zuko was momentarily taken aback but quickly smiled and turned to head upstairs, carrying the bangle with him.

Gia was caught off guard. "Lina, you..."

As Zuko disappeared upstairs into his room, Lina apologetically smiled and tried to hold Gia's arm. "I'm sorry."

Gia's expression darkened, and she shook off Lina's hand.

"Gia!" Lina called out, looking at her with concern. "That... was a gift from Zeke to me, and I don't want anyone else touching it or taking pictures of it. I hope you can understand."

"I see. Now that you have a man, you've forgotten about your best friend!" Gia crossed her arms in front of her chest and glared at Lina. "It's just a bangle. What's so special about it? When I have a boyfriend, I'll have him buy me a whole collection of them!"

"Yes, yes, yes!" Lina agreed with a smile. "Zeke told me that the bangle isn't expensive. Considering your family's current situation, you can afford to buy one too!"

Lina's words were meant to console Gia, but she was unaware that they came across as mocking and insulting.

It was as if she was implying, "If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have the money to buy a bangle, would you?"

Gia's expression suddenly darkened, and she felt suffocated.

"Gia..." Lina looked at her with concern and a soft smile. "Wait for me. I'll go upstairs and change, and then we can go shopping!"

"No need!" Gia snapped in a cold tone.

Lina stood there, stunned and unsure of what to say.

"I suddenly don't feel like shopping anymore. Just stay home and keep your husband company!"

"But..."

"Oh, and one more thing." Gia glanced at her. "Check your campus email when you have time. This semester's off-campus activity is a visit to Southeast Aciatic for an architectural art exchange! The registration deadline is approaching, so if you're interested, you need to act quickly!"

Gia spoke quickly and walked away as if she didn't want to spend another second there.

Lina sat in the chair, lost in thought. She couldn't understand why Gia's attitude had changed so suddenly. Was a bangle really that important?

Suddenly, a large hand gently pressed on her shoulder.

Lina snapped back to reality and turned to meet Zuko's tender gaze.

"Why are you sighing?"

"Huh? Did I sigh?"

Zuko smiled and held her face in his hands, examining it carefully. "Your unhappiness is written all over your face."

Lina blushed and murmured, "I just feel like Gia's feelings toward me have changed."

"Hmm... when did you start feeling that way?" he asked.