Ch. 1151..1160

Chapter 1151

Chapter 1151

Toph paused, his curiosity piqued. "Fireflies? What does that mean?"

Zuko squinted, deep in thought. The appearance of the location tracking and the signal being sent meant that Lina's current situation couldn't be too dangerous. And the word "fireflies"... A confident smile formed on Zuko's face. "They'll be in Southeast Aciatic!"

"What?" Toph exclaimed, taken aback. "You're certain about this based on just one word?"

Zuko nodded assertively. "There's no mistake. It's Southeast Aciatic, for sure! Even if Melvin doesn't tell us Uncle Nicholas, we'll find them!"

Toph's disbelief faded as Zuko reassured him with a pat on the shoulder and a reassuring smile. "If you want to see Renee soon, pack your things and come with me!"

"Okay..."

Zuko calmly organized the arrangements, addressing Uncle Nicholas. "Don't withdraw your men just yet. We'll split into two groups. Your team will continue the search here while Toph and I will leave immediately."

"I won't withdraw them," Nicholas replied, his voice filled with determination. "But I... I want to go to Southeast Aciatic with you!"

Zuko hesitated for a moment before responding. "But Uncle Nicholas-"

"Linda would definitely want to go too!" Nicholas interjected, grasping Zuko's hand. "Zuko, please have mercy on us and let us join you! We... We want to embrace our daughter again-we want to bring her back ourselves!"

A pang tugged at Zuko's heart. He quickly made arrangements, rushing to Southeast Aciatic overnight and sending people to pick up Jesse and Melissa, settling them down in Centrolis first. Then, he made a call to Irwin Manor.

"Grandpa, I need your help with something..."

"Mm, it involves your daughter-in-law!" Grandpa chuckled, his words clear. "Well, two of them, actually!"

Finally, the large ship docked at the Southeast Aciatic pier.

In the early hours of the morning, a faint light peeked from the sky, signaling the imminent dawn.

Lina and Renee stood on the deck, following Krystal's lead.

Krystal maintained a cool expression as her armed subordinates surrounded her. Observing her, Lina couldn't help but recall scenes from the Pirates of the Caribbean, seeing Krystal as a fierce heroine. Suppressing her nervousness, Lina let out a small chuckle.

As soon as the ship docked, the atmosphere came alive.

Lina and Renee held onto each other tightly, mentally prepared for what awaited them. However, they couldn't help but scream in surprise when the first gunshot rang out, causing them to instinctively huddle together.

The chaos ensued as gunshots filled the air, accompanied by the scent of gunpowder and blood.

Sirens wailed in the distance.

Krystal turned back, her gaze fierce as she barked, "What are you waiting for? Get off the ship! Go!"

Lina and Renee wanted to comply, but their legs trembled, making each step feel like walking on cotton. Frustrated and anxious, Krystal rushed forward and enveloped them in her arms.

"So useless!"

"Madame Krys..."

Krystal pushed them toward the stairs. "Go this way. Once you're down, head to the shore!"

"Madame Krys!" Lina glanced back, worried. "Come with us!"

Krystal widened her eyes, glaring at them. "Are you crazy? I still have a group of girls on board! You think I'll abandon them and leave with you? Do you want me to starve?"

"You..."

"No more nonsense! Take your cousin and go!" Krystal retrieved a small pistol from her pocket and handed it to Lina.

Just yesterday, she had taught the two girls how to use it. Now, she gave them the pistol for self-defense in case of emergencies.

Lina bit her lip.

The shootout escalated, with the drug traffickers displaying their desperation while the police reinforced their position.

Lina understood that their top priority was to avoid exposing themselves, to avoid becoming hostages to Justin, and not to hinder the police. Krystal and Lina were on different paths.

Keeping everyone safe individually was more important than anything else.

With determination, Lina retrieved the pistol from her pocket, adjusting her aim for any possible scenario, and quietly prepared to defend herself.

Just as she did, Krystal made a sudden move. She struck Justin with her elbow, lifted her leg high, and stomped her stiletto heel down forcefully on his foot. Justin winced in pain and inadvertently fired a shot.

But the gun didn't go off!

As Renee had calculated, Justin's gun was already empty!

Enraged, Justin released Krystal just as the police were about to open fire...

They managed to stop in time, ensuring Krystal's safety. However, Justin gripped Krystal's hair tightly and swung her violently, nearly throwing her off the deck. Amidst the chaos, Lina swiftly aimed her pistol at Justin and pulled the trigger, her movements calm and steady.

Chapter 1152

Chapter 1152

At that critical moment, someone embraced Lina from behind, their warm and gentle hands covering her cold and trembling ones, dispelling her anxiety.

Looking up, Lina met Zuko's determined gaze. She froze as he held her hand, helping her aim, and spoke in a low, steady voice. "Fire!"

Without hesitation, Lina pulled the trigger.

The sound of the gunshot reverberated, causing her wrist to go numb from the recoil of the small pistol.

The bullet struck Justin's leg, causing him to fall to the deck, leaving a pool of blood. The police swiftly subdued the criminal gang.

At that moment, Lina's mind went blank. Her heart pounded in her ears as her body weakened and her hands and feet turned cold. Unable to support herself, she began to fall, but Zuko caught her, holding her gently in his arms and soothing her like a baby.

"Did... Did I kill someone?" Lina asked fearfully, and her voice choked with sobs. "Did I... That guy...'

"No," Zuko reassured her softly. "You did well. You truly live up to being Uncle Nicholas' daughter!"

"But I saw so much blood on the deck!"

"Don't be scared." Zuko's voice was soothing, like a cello's melody. "I held your hand and fired the gun. Even if someone was killed, it was me who did it, not you."

"Bro, Pammy!" Toph's laughter echoed loudly. "What are you two talking about? That was a drug dealer. He deserved what he got!"

Renee's face lit up at the sight of Toph, and she jumped up to hug him. Toph patted her head with an indulgent smile.

"It's not safe," Zuko said seriously. "Let's leave first and talk later."

Taking Lina's hand, Zuko led the way, with Toph and Renee following closely behind. The four of them hurried toward a safer area on the shore. When they reached a distance, Lina turned to look back. The ship was crowded with police officers escorting Justin and his gang off the vessel. Police cars and ambulances formed a circle on the shore while reporters swarmed the scene, creating chaos.

Lina lowered her head, still clutching the small pistol in her hand. There was a discreet inscription on the grip-Krys. She wondered how Madame Krys was currently faring.

Considering what had transpired, it seemed that Krystal had betrayed Justin. Now that he was being brought to justice, she was also implicated in illicit activities. Was Lina unwittingly walking into a trap? Lost in thought, Lina hesitated. According to the rumors, Madame Krys could become ruthless and vengeful when she lost control.

Zuko noticed her distraction and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. Lina showed him the pistol, and after a brief pause, he advised her to keep it.

"Uncle Nicholas once told me that Madame Krys is an old friend... Perhaps you'll meet again in the future."

"Will we?" Lina questioned, looking at him. "There were many girls she had planned to sell in the cabin. Will the police let her go?"

Zuko couldn't provide an answer. He simply gazed at her quietly, his fingers tidying her disheveled hair.

"A person must face the consequences for breaking the law," he said softly. "Her kindness toward you doesn't exempt her from the law."

Lina nodded, understanding his words. "I hope that when I see Madame Krys again, I'll have the opportunity to properly repay her."

Chapter 1153

Chapter 1153

Zuko smiled softly, affirming, "It will definitely happen."

"Alright, enough with the sentimentality, you two," Toph chuckled and pointed, diverting their attention. "Look, who's that over there?"

Lina followed Toph's finger, her gaze falling upon two middle-aged individuals making their way toward them, their steps unsteady and cautious. The pier's uneven surface caused them to stumble occasionally, but their determination to see their daughter remained unyielding.

Lina's heart tightened, rendering her momentarily motionless. She observed the anxiety etched on their faces and the cautious longing in their eyes. Despite their distinguished attire, which made them stand out in the crowd, their movements appeared unsteady and disheveled.

A clenched fist rested tightly by Lina's side, her heart seemingly ready to leap out of her throat.

Nicholas and Linda, supporting each other, hastened their pace until they reached a certain distance from Lina. Suddenly, they came to a halt, unsure whether to proceed or retreat. Advancing further might elicit uncertainty regarding their daughter's reception, yet retreating seemed equally difficult for them.

Linda hesitated. Her desire to move forward quelled as Nicholas pulled her back, preventing her from taking a step.

"Stay put... D-Don't startle her," Nicholas pleaded, his voice filled with anguish.

Linda's heart ached profoundly. This man, who had been rough and unrestrained throughout his life, now hesitated to approach his daughter.

Hand in hand, Nicholas and Linda inched forward, carefully treading the path. Over the past 20 years, they had envisioned countless scenarios of finding their daughter, but none of them resembled the reality unfolding before them.

Standing face to face with their daughter, they could only gaze at her in a daze, unable to utter a single word. The sight pierced Lina's heart, stirring a twinge of pain within her.

Zuko placed a comforting hand on Lina's shoulder and whispered, "Lina, these are your mother and father."

Lina pursed her lips, attempting to utter the words "mom" and "dad" several times, but they remained trapped within her throat.

"It's okay. Take your time," Nicholas hurriedly reassured, waving his hand. "In the future... both Dad and Mom will be by your side!"

"Pamela..." Linda's tears flowed uncontrollably as she uttered her daughter's name.

Witnessing her mother's pale and feeble state, Lina rushed forward to support her. She had heard stories of her mother's stunning beauty and had seen old photographs of them together at the Hamertons. Yet she never realized that the handsome, heroic man in those pictures was her father and the radiant woman by his side was her mother.

These 20 years—the years she had been absent from their lives—had taken a toll on them.

Lina felt an overwhelming wave of sadness, her throat tightening as tears streamed down her face.

Linda's pent-up grievances from the past two decades finally erupted. She embraced Lina tightly, wailing uncontrollably, reminiscent of the moment when Pammy cried in her arms as a newborn. Nicholas joined them, opening his arms and enveloping his wife and daughter in a heartfelt embrace.

The reunion-20 years overdue and amidst changed circumstances-had finally transpired.

Zuko's eyes reddened as he took a deep breath and whispered to Toph, "Take Lina and Renee back to Grandpa's place first. Let them rest and freshen up. The palace has prepared a dinner banquet." "Understood." Toph nodded. "His Majesty also insists that we stay there tonight!"

Chapter 1154

Chapter 1154

The news of Justin's criminal gang's arrest in Southeast Aciatic spread rapidly. Television and the Internet were filled with footage of the police escorting them. Justin, wearing a black hood and shackles on his legs and hands, walked slowly due to a gunshot wound.

This time, the police seized drugs and conducted simultaneous raids on Justin's hideouts in several neighboring countries of Southeast Aciatic. Justin was now set to face an international trial, multiple charges, and the possibility of the death penalty.

Press media from various countries were excited and competed to report this significant news. In the process of reporting on Justin, they incidentally mentioned another criminal gang that the police had captured.

Through the screen, Lina saw Krystal, who appeared exhausted yet calm. Despite the handcuffs and the police presence, Krystal still exuded the formidable presence of a boss who commanded the underworld.

Feeling a tinge of sadness, Lina agreed with Zuko's earlier remark that one must pay the price for violating the law.

"Lina?" Zuko knocked on the door. "Are you ready?"

Snapping back to reality, Lina replied softly.

Zuko entered with a smile, followed by several designers and assistants pushing in five clothing racks filled with dresses.

"It's 3:00 p.m. now, and we have four hours until the evening banquet. The designers will help you choose a dress and do your styling."

Approaching her, Zuko reached out to embrace her slender waist.

After having just taken a shower, Lina carried a refreshing fragrance that was captivating and almost made Zuko lose control of himself. "So many clothes?" Lina widened her eyes.

"They were all chosen by Aunt Linda," Zuko said with a smile. "The banquet will be held at the palace, and my grandfather's family, along with the general's family, will be there. Aunt Linda wants you to look beautiful in front of everyone!

"Oh, by the way, His Majesty, whom you didn't meet when you came to Southeast Aciatic last time, will personally welcome you tonight!"

Lina smiled, feeling honored by this supreme gesture.

"Don't worry." Zuko pinched her cheek. "His Majesty King Alexander is kind and easygoing. When I visited Southeast Aciatic as a child, he even let me sit on his throne!"

"By the way," he whispered in her ear, lowering his voice. "He'll definitely like the person I like too."

In fact, Zuko knew that if he liked someone, his entire family would also approve of that person.

Unable to resist, Zuko hugged Lina tightly.

It had only been a little over a week since the two girls were rescued from abduction, but for Zuko, it felt like several centuries had passed. Every second without news of Lina during those days was tormenting. Lina began trying on the dresses. They were all traditional attire from Southeast Aciatic, each one exquisite like a work of art, featuring intricate embroidery and top-notch design craftsmanship that met international standards.

No matter which dress she tried, Zuko always said she looked beautiful.

Lina giggled happily, wishing she had a few more bodies so she could wear all the beautiful clothes at once!

"Aunt Linda, why don't you go in?" Toph came looking for the designers to help style Renee but noticed Linda standing outside the room, gazing inside.

Linda hurriedly grabbed his arm and hushed him. "I'll just stay here and watch her..."

Linda's behavior took aback Toph. She used to be resolute and decisive, but now she stood outside the room like an elementary school student outside the teacher's office, fidgeting with her clothes. He couldn't help but feel sorry for her.

"Aunt Linda, you should go inside! Lina is your daughter. You don't have to be so cautious..."

"No need!" Linda forced a smile. "Nic said we shouldn't make her feel uncomfortable. I'll just take a glance from here, really! Oh... I think the nude pink one looked best on her out of all the outfits she tried on earlier. It complements her fair skin and temperament!"

Toph bit his lip, feeling a mix of emotions.

Chapter 1155

Chapter 1155

Toph, known for his carefree personality, felt sentimental today, appreciating a parent's love and effort.

Unaware of the noises outside, the people in the room remained focused.

After changing into two outfits, Lina stared at Zuko, her heart heavy with a question. Before she could ask, he preemptively handed her his phone.

Lina froze, unsure of what to make of the gesture.

Zuko ruffled her hair, wearing an indulgent smile. "I know you want to call your parents."

"You..."

"Use my phone." Zuko chuckled. "I didn't want them to worry, so I didn't tell them about your disappearance. When I couldn't keep it a secret any longer, I arranged for them to come to Centrolis, intending to tel them the truth. But unexpectedly, you sent a signal at that very moment."

Lina silently gazed at him, her emotions intertwining within her.

"If you use my phone to call, it will prove that we're together, and they can rest assured."

"Okay."

"By the way, Melvin was arrested, but he still has some influence outside," Zuko explained, saving a landline number on the phone. "This is the phone in the guest room at home. The internal line is more secure and won't be monitored. For safety reasons, it's better to call this number."

Grateful for his thoughtfulness, Lina tiptoed and gently kissed his cheek.

Zuko felt his heart blossom at that moment, but he concealed his excitement behind a calm expression and a few light coughs.

As the call connected, a lazy voice came from the other end, "Hello?"

Lina's heart skipped a beat. "Dave? Is that you?"

There was a brief silence before a sudden shout, "Sis!?"

"Dad, Mom! Come quickly! It's... it's Lina! It's Lina!"

Lina froze before bursting into laughter.

She heard the commotion through the phone-Dave's loud voice, Jesse and Melissa's eager attempts to grab the phone.

The three of them competed to speak to Lina, prompting Dave to shout, "Stop fighting! Let's put the call on speaker!" Instantly, the world fell silent.

The previous clamor transformed into shaky voices expressing concern and greetings.

"Lina, where have you been these past few days?"

"Yeah, our parents were so worried about you, you know?

"Sis, where are you now? Mom was so worried that her pants were almost on fire when you didn't answer her calls!"

"Brat, only liars' pants catch fire. I'm your mother!"

Lina laughed as she listened, tears streaming down her face.

She took deep breaths and fought to contain her welling tears and softly called out, "Dad, mom!"

The words came naturally and with genuine emotion, but they seemed like a mocking taunt from destiny to Linda's ears.

Linda's expression shifted, and her fingers involuntarily clenched, digging into her flesh with force.

Chapter 1156

Chapter 1156

"Mom, dad, Dave, I'm really sorry for making you worry!" Lina's emotions got the best of her, making her talkative. To avoid scaring them, she decided to keep the part about being abducted onto the ship to herself.

"Actually, these past few days... um, I've been with Zuko the whole time! We just arrived in Southeast Aciatic today."

"Sis, did you go to that palace again?" Dave said with envy. "I saw the photos from your study tour last time. It looked so beautiful there!"

"I'll take you for a visit there when you get into university!" Zuko took the phone and chuckled softly.

Dave cheered excitedly on the other end.

Upon hearing Zuko's voice, Jesse and Melissa felt more relieved, knowing that Lina was with him.

Melissa said, on the verge of tears and laughter, "Lina, how have you been lately? I've had a bad feeling these days and felt anxious for no reason...

"Mom, you should take care of your health." Lina spoke gently. "Don't overwork yourself, whether at home or in the store. Let Dave handle what needs to be done. He's grown up now!"

"That's right." Jesse chimed in with a smile. "Let him take care of everything. He's a boy, and he should take on more responsibilities!

"But come back for a visit when you have the time, Lina. The old house and the supermarket are still waiting for you!"

"Dad..."

"Dad knows. You're now part of a wealthy family, and these things are not that important." Jesse smiled innocently. "But they're a token from us, so you must accept them, understood?" Lina's eyes welled up with tears, and the urge to cry surged again.

Jesse lowered his voice. "By the way, uh... I know it's inappropriate to say this, but remember, if you're not comfortable over there, we will always have a room for you here, understand?"

"Mm..."

"You old man, what nonsense are you spouting!?" Melissa punched him directly. "Lina, don't listen to your father. This man smokes so much his brain's fried!"

"You old hag, am I talking nonsense? Weren't you worried during that time too!?"

"Shut up!"

Even through the phone, Lina could imagine her parents causing a fuss, with Dave probably trying to break up the fight by holding onto their father while their mother threw a few more punches. She had felt like crying just a moment ago, but now she burst into laughter.

"Mom! Dad! Stop bickering." Lina laughed cheerfully. "It's my fault for not informing you in time this time. From now on, I promise to call you every day!"

"Great!" Jesse replied.

However, Melissa said, "No need!"

They both spoke simultaneously, then fell silent, glancing at each other.

Jesse held Melissa's hand and sighed softly.

He understood his wife's feelings. She was sick and didn't want to burden their daughter. Fortunately, their daughter had already found her biological parents. Despite that, Melissa was also afraid. She was afraid that Lina, in her ignorance, would clash with her biological parents and upset them one day.

Therefore, it would be better to minimize their meetings in the future. It would be beneficial for everyone.

It was just that their daughter... probably wouldn't understand Melissa's heartfelt intentions.

"Mom?" Lina was puzzled. "What are you talking about? Why won't you let me call you?"

Chapter 1157

Chapter 1157

"Oh, it's nothing, really!" Melissa feigned nonchalance. "I was just concerned that it might be a waste of time for you to call me when you're busy with your studies now!"

"Mom..."

"It's important for you to focus on your studies now that you have good resources, you know?" Melissa advised. "Your father is taking care of the school procedures here, and you'll be transferred to Centrolis soon!"

"Even if I'm busy, it won't stop me from contacting you!" Lina had a strange feeling in her heart. "Mom, are you hiding something from me?"

Melissa was taken aback but adamantly denied it.

No matter how much Lina asked, her mother insisted that everything was fine and maintained a facade of normalcy.

However, certain parts of Melissa's body were starting to ache faintly. Sweat coated the tip of her nose, and her face grew slightly pale.

Jesse noticed and quickly interrupted, "Lina, focus on your own matters! Hehe... Your mom and I are playing poker together, so I'll be joining her for a few rounds now!"

"But how can you play with just two people?"

"Well... uh... There are many servants in the Hamertons!" Jesse improvised. "You have no idea. Since we've been staying here, your mom has become acquainted with them to the point of nearly becoming sworn sisters... Haha, alright, I'll stop here. I'll go play with her now! Take care of yourself, don't wander around, and stay with Zuko, okay?"

After Jesse finished speaking, he hung up quickly.

Lina stood there for a moment, stunned, and then slowly turned her gaze to Zuko.

Zuko also felt that something was off.

The Jesse and Melissa he knew were kind-hearted people who would falter when telling lies. Their tone on the phone sounded like they were acting.

Moreover, the Hamertons had strict rules. The housekeepers and servants were all well-behaved and dedicated. Who would dare play cards during working hours?

He narrowed his eyes, contemplating the situation, and gently patted Lina's back.

"It's okay. They've been worried these past few days, so they probably just want to relax now. It's about time... Shall we choose this nude pink one?"

"Okay." Lina smiled lightly and was about to change her clothes. However, as she turned around, she suddenly saw Linda standing at the door.

Their eyes met in an instant, and Lina's heart jolted intensely.

Linda stood still, expressionless, appearing calm on the surface, but waves of emotions surged in her eyes.

She had overheard Lina's conversation on the phone with that couple just now.

She heard her daughter advising the mother on the other end to take better care of herself and stay in touch more. She heard her daughter feeling guilty for suddenly disappearing and refraining from telling the truth, afraid they would worry...

Did she know that her biological parents were also in anguish day and night? Did their worries mean nothing to her?

Linda suppressed the pain in her heart, not wanting to lose control in front of her daughter, and forced a smile.

"It's getting late," she said, each word requiring all her strength. "I heard that the banquet tonight is hosted by the king of Southeast Aciatic. It wouldn't be good to be late. You should hurry!" Zuko quickly interjected. "Aunt Linda, you can ride with us in the same car. Let's go together!"

"No need..." Linda weakly smiled. "I'm feeling a bit unwell, and Nicholas also wants to return to Centrolis as soon as possible. Please thank His Majesty for his kindness on my behalf. In fact, the king is holding the banquet out of respect for the Irwins, so it's more appropriate for you to attend since it's a family affair. Nicholas and I attending might not be suitable."

"Aunt Linda-"

Linda looked at him with a complicated gaze. Her lips moved, but it took her a long time to utter a few words, "Zuko, take good care of my daughter."

Chapter 1158

Chapter 1158

When Lina finished changing clothes, she walked out of the room hand in hand with Zuko. However, before leaving, she couldn't resist looking around.

There stood Linda, motionless in that spot.

Lina observed her thin figure, hunched over like an old lady as if a gust of wind could make her collapse. The anticipation in her eyes had faded, replaced by a sense of emptiness.

An indescribable sadness filled Lina's heart.

Linda and Nicholas were two unfamiliar names to her, but they were the two closest people to her in this world.

Taking a deep breath, Lina lowered her gaze and remained silent. Zuko understood her emotions and gently embraced her, kissing her forehead tenderly.

"Everything will be fine," he whispered. "It's not as difficult as it seems... They love you very much and have been searching for you for 20 years."

"I know." Lina held his hand. Despite the tropical climate of Southeast Aciatic, her palms felt ice-cold.

"Zuko, I... I need time."

"Mm, I understand." He looked at her with tenderness. "I'll always be by your side, helping you adapt as quickly as possible. Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda have watched me grow up. For me, they're already family.

"Lina, I've told you before, I won't let you be separated from your family.

"What about me?" He gently caressed her face. "Don't let my family down either, okay?"

Lina bit her lip and looked up at him.

Behind him, the starry sky of Southeast Aciatic glistened, reflecting the resolute light in his eyes, much like the stars themselves.

She smiled faintly and stepped into the dreamy night, their fingers intertwined.

That night, the palace was filled with liveliness.

Apart from the Irwins, several other influential families from Southeast Aciatic were also invited. Most of the attendees were the younger generation of these families.

The atmosphere of the banquet was not solemn or serious due to the presence of the king. On the contrary, Alexander enjoyed seeing the younger generation together, radiating their energy. After a brief opening speech, he stepped aside to play cards with Neil, leaving the scene to these playful and lively juniors.

Toph held Renee's hand as they wandered through the crowd. His outgoing nature made him particularly suited for such gatherings. After a few glasses of wine, he quickly became acquainted with the heirs of the Southeast Aciatic noble families, proudly introducing Renee to everyone.

He was only a step away from holding up a sign that said, "Renee is Toph's future wife."

On the other hand, Zuko remained more low-key, constantly staying by Lina's side. He anticipated her needs in advance, ensuring everything was prepared for her, be it food or anything else she desired. Although heiresses from various families approached, seeking conversations, Zuko never cast a glance in their direction, devoting his full attention to guarding the person in front of him. Lina stole a glance at him.

His serious demeanor, combined with the smear of cake cream on the corner of his mouth, was somehow amusing!

She chuckled and gently wiped it off for him.

Zuko froze for a moment before suddenly holding her small hand, his eyes filled with affectionate joy.

"So, you two are here!" A voice interrupted their little moment.

Lina hastily pushed Zuko away, her cheeks slightly flushed.

It was Carter who approached, holding a glass of wine in his hand. He looked at Zuko, then at Lina, and smiled approvingly.

"Your medical examination report from when you were injured in Southeast Aciatic is still with me," Carter said with a smile. "Zuko, your grandparents said that young people nowadays match their birth charts when dating, so they matched your DNA... Haha, who would have thought that the result of the match would turn out like this!"

Recalling the incident from her last visit to Southeast Aciatic, Lina wanted to raise her glass in a toast.

If it hadn't been for this kind-hearted man, she wouldn't know how long she would have been entangled with Violet and Gia.

Carter smiled and accepted her gesture, downing the glass of wine. "By the way, Lina, the matter from last time has been investigated and cleared up."

Chapter 1159

Chapter 1159

Lina was taken aback. "What?"

"The brand manager of LC Skincare specifically retrieved the store surveillance footage," Carter explained. "The footage showed that two employees colluded and placed the fake face cream on the counter with markings on the packaging. The cream didn't sell until your classmate, Chapman, walked into the duty-free shop and specifically asked for it. That's when they sold it to her.

"And the substance in the face cream is actually a type of drug. It's added after being highly refined, causing a chemical reaction. Just a small amount is enough to make the skin ulcerate and never recover." Zuko furrowed his brow. "Uncle Carter, have you found out who those two people are?"

"Of course," Carter smiled. "Those two individuals were captured during the police operation to apprehend Justin."

Zuko and Lina were both stunned.

"They... are Justin's henchmen?"

"That's correct."

"So you mean..." Lina's expression changed slightly. "Gia not only has a connection with Melvin but also with Justin?"

"Yes," Zuko said in a low voice. "It just goes to show how cunning she is! She was deceiving you while using these people to harm you!"

Lina fell silent.

Melvin and Justin were captured in this operation, but there was no conclusive evidence to arrest Gia. A piece of surveillance footage could not prove much. Moreover, those two employees had already become scapegoats. It seemed that it would take more time to get rid of Gia.

"Don't think too much about it," Zuko reassured, patting her shoulder. "Leave this to me. I'll deal with her."

"What can you do?"

"Well, for now, I don't have a plan." He smiled. "But no one can let my woman suffer even a bit of grievance!"

Carter also smiled. "I heard that Lina shot Justin during the operation. It's truly a destined outcome. Your shot this time can be considered as avenging yourself!"

Lina rested her head against Zuko's chest, listening to his strong heartbeat, and her smile was particularly sweet.

The banquet continued until it was almost midnight, and slowly, everyone started to leave. Only Zuko, Toph, Lina, and Renee remained.

Zuko had already set his sights on a quiet, elegant small room filled with books and paintings. Most importantly, there was only one small bed.

He discreetly led Lina to this room, avoiding everyone's attention.

Upon entering the room, Lina felt somewhat surprised. The environment was excellent, but the room was too small.

It didn't seem like a guest room but more like a study.

She looked around and casually picked up the white jade ornament on the table. After examining it, she placed it back down. Then, she turned to Zuko, her eyes filled with confusion. "His Majesty... arranged fo us to stay here?"

Zuko maintained a poker face and nodded. "Yes."

"But it's too small, isn't it? There's only one room. We-"

"It's okay," Zuko interrupted her, stepping forward to embrace her. His large hands subtly roamed her back. "We can sleep in just one room." Lina was unaware of the desires that consumed a man's heart after he drank, especially when faced with such a captivating girl like her. Zuko's throat tightened, his lips were dry, and her scent overwhelmed his senses. All the blood in his body rushed to a certain place... He held her tightly, his deep voice exuding charisma as he whispered softly in her ear, "It's getting late... Let's sleep, shall we?"

Chapter 1160

Chapter 1160

"Wait!" Lina's small hand pushed against Zuko's sturdy chest, her clever eyes blinking as she spoke softly. "Isn't His Majesty known for being hospitable? It doesn't make sense that we're given such a small room. Besides, the palace is so big-"

"His Majesty said there's only this room!" Zuko replied seriously. "Lina, it's not good to bother His Majesty over such a trivial matter..."

He coughed lightly and smirked. "Let's make do with it tonight, okay?"

"But..." Before Lina could argue further, her lips were sealed by Zuko's eager kiss.

It had been a long time since he had kissed her like this...

Zuko held her tightly, content as if he had obtained the whole world. His hand gently traced along her delicate back, lightly resting on her soft nape as if caressing a kitten's neck. His other hand around her waist gradually gained a mind of its own.

Lina's heart raced, feeling both confused and infatuated. She didn't know what to do next...

Zuko began to take advantage of the situation, guiding her toward the small bed. In a low, hoarse voice that ignited a fire within her, he whispered next to her ear, "Let's go to sleep early."

"Zuko..."

He held her small hand, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips, while his eyes were filled with tender affection like starlight.

Lina's cheeks flushed, her ears turning as red as ripe cherries. She sat on the edge of the bed without much coercion.

"Lina, I want... to have you."

Lina dared not look at Zuko. Her breath was bated. All she could hear was the thumping sound of her own heartbeat, her mind going blank. Just as Zuko's hand was about to undo the fastening on her collar...

The door suddenly swung open!

Lina was startled, almost screaming, and Zuko quickly shielded her behind him, facing the person who entered the room with wide eyes. "Y-Your... Lordship?" It was Remus' turn to be shocked, his face turning pale. "Why are you... Why are you here in my room with Ms. Lina?"

"What?" Lina was stunned, poking her head out from behind Zuko. "This is your room?"

"Yes, this is my study." Remus smiled awkwardly. "Usually, I handle some documents for His Majesty here, and I take a rest on this small bed sometimes when I work for a long time..." Speaking of the bed, Remus seemed to understand something instantly.

Zuko's face alternated between being flushed and pale, wishing he could find a hole to hide in!

He had been to the palace a few times before, and someone else arranged the accommodation each time. He had never personally searched for a room. He had picked this place because it had a serene environment—and the key point was the small bed.

He never expected...

Zuko grimaced, forcing out an extremely unnatural smile.

Having similar experiences, Remus instantly understood what was going on in this lad's mind.

"Your Lordship." He stepped forward, respectfully helping him find an excuse. "Did you perhaps enter the wrong room?"

"Oh, uh... Yes!" Zuko tried to maintain a serious face. "It's been many years since I last came, and I... I'm not familiar with this place anymore!"

"No problem. His Majesty arranged a room for Ms. Lina right next to the Pearl Spring." Remus smiled. "Ms. Lina, please come with me."

Lina lowered her gaze, her face blushing, and she slowly walked away from behind Zuko.

Zuko hurriedly followed, but Remus turned around and looked at him. "Your Lordship, someone will take you to where you'll be staying later!" "What?" Zuko was taken aback. "We won't be staying together?"