Ch. 1231..1240

Chapter 1231

Chapter 1231

"You mean Jacob?" Zuko sneered. "Gia, you worry too much. Do you really believe that a prominent lawyer like him would be so foolish as to fall for your scheme so easily?"

Gia's mind exploded. Scenes flashed through her mind-Jacob's coldness and contempt during their time together. Even when they went out for a meal, he would send her a Venmo request to split the bill with her. Yet, he seemed more enthusiastic toward her computer.

After being stunned for a while, tears fell from Gia's eyes, and a mad laugh escaped her lips.

"Lina!" She turned to look at Lina, speaking recklessly. "Do you really not care about our past friendship anymore? Have the police take me away today, and I'll post about you online tomorrow! I'll let the whole world know that you framed an old friend and are a heartless, cold-blooded monster!"

"Gia, what you've done has already violated the law! Don't you understand?" She almost amused Lina.

"It's not just me who violated the law, but also your adoptive mother!" Gia was hysterical. "She found you but didn't report it to the police. Instead, she secretly kept you with her. Isn't that a crime?

"Let me tell you. I reported it to the police yesterday! They should be investigating her in the hospital right now! Hahaha..."

Lina clenched her fists as she glared at Gia.

She was sure that Gia had truly gone crazy and was now struggling in desperation, trying to drag everyone around her down with her.

Unfortunately, Gia had miscalculated again.

Lina took a deep breath with a faint smile and casually said, "Is that so? Then let me inform you. My mom has already contacted the police and explained everything!"

"What?"

"That's right. This is a Thompson affair!" Linda walked in and stood beside Nicholas. The couple exchanged smiles.

Linda then looked at Gia. Her expression was indifferent, but her gaze glinted with sharpness.

"After you reported it to the police, they immediately notified me, and I went to explain the situation," she said calmly. "Jesse and Melissa are our family members. The incident 20 years ago was just a misunderstanding among the family."

"Mom..." Lina's eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at Linda.

Linda held Lina's hand tightly and gave her a loving smile. "A misunderstanding among family members would be resolved privately!"

"No... It's not like that!" Gia screamed hoarsely.

Before Gia could make any crazy move, she was restrained by the Thompsons' bodyguards.

Linda walked up to her.

Gia saw her high heels that shone elegantly and suddenly remembered her childhood.

She was seven years old that year and joined the dance class at school, but she did not have a decent pair of dance shoes. She pleaded with her mother countless times to buy her a pair, and her mother finally agreed but then turned around and used the money for her brother's toys.

Perhaps her twisted mindset started from that time.

When she returned to the dance team, she used a carving knife to leave marks on all the dance shoes when everyone else was resting.

It was from that time that she developed a near-crazy obsession with money.

She could do anything for money, even betray the only person who genuinely cared for her, Lina.

It was all because of those shoes.

Gia grinned and suddenly reached out to grab Linda's foot.

Linda pulled back slightly with a gasp.

Meanwhile, Gia said shakily with a twisted expression, "Mrs. Thompson, these shoes of yours... They're so beautiful!" "What do you want?"

"I'm just thinking, if my mother had bought me those shoes back then, would I not have ended up like this?"

Chapter 1232

Chapter 1232

Linda glanced at Gia and said coldly, "Ms. Chapman, do you really think that using sweet words and sowing discord can fool everyone? You're still young. Use your time in prison to reform yourself. There may

still be opportunities in your life!"

"I think not." Suddenly, a crisp voice came from outside the door.

Lina's eyes lit up.

Abigail had told her that she would appear on the day of "harvest", and now she was there. She still wore her big sunglasses that covered half of her face and walked with an air of confidence. There was, however, another person behind her.

That person looked panicked with trembling legs. As soon as she entered, she knelt in front of everyone.

Linda frowned. "Who is she?"

Abigail walked over to explain unhurriedly, "Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, this is Tina Yoe, a cosmetic doctor known in the entertainment industry, but she has done something even more notorious!" Gia looked at Tina, and both of them turned pale at the sight of each other.

Lina stepped forward to show her examination report to the police officers. "This is the result of the detailed examination. I was injected with a certain drug, which causes pain in my waist."

"What?" Linda was shocked.

"Mom, it's not serious," Lina comforted. "I went to Dr. Yoe back when I removed the birthmark on my waist. Things have cleared up, and she admitted it herself. While removing the birthmark, she injected a foreign-produced drug without any production qualifications or safety assurance!"

Nicholas was furious upon hearing that and almost pulled out his pistol. However, lan held his hand tightly and shook his head at him while shooting glances at the police.

Lina continued. "Mom, dad, don't worry. The drug she injected left some aftereffects, but fortunately, the dosage wasn't significant. With proper care, I can recover." Linda was almost in tears. "Silly child, you were fine with that birthmark. Why remove it?"

"I remember it was a crescent-shaped one on your waist when you were born. It was light and looked rather cute." Nicholas chuckled lightly. "But why did you want to remove it?" Zuko sneered. "You'll have to ask Ms. Chapman about that. Also, Dr. Yoe seems to know quite a lot about these 'matters of the wealthy', right?"

Gia and Tina sucked in cold breaths. Even without them saying anything, everyone could guess that Melvin was the one behind everything.

Removing Lina's birthmark was originally meant to block her way home. However, they did not expect her to meet Zuko. In the end, Zuko still managed to bring Pammy back home.

After the police thoroughly investigated the situation, Tina and Gia were taken away. They found Tobias, who had been beaten up, behind the hotel and took him away as well. All of them would face severe punishment.

Nicholas also gave instructions for those in the prison to take "good" care of these newcomers.

The matter finally came to an end.

Surprisingly, Melissa's condition improved.

Initially, the doctors had determined that her cancer cells had spread too rapidly, and the delayed treatment had made the situation bleak.

However, with Zephyr and Cordelia's notice, Zennie immediately rushed back from a medical seminar in Eropah with Seth.

Melissa's medical records were also sent all the way to Southeast Aciatic, and Carter had been busy studying them with top experts in the field for days. With the combined efforts of modern and holistic medicine, there were signs of the cancer cells in Melissa's body stopping their spread.

Additionally, Lina stayed by her side every day, taking meticulous care of her. Melissa was a cheerful and optimistic person, so her condition naturally improved with her improved mindset.

Zephyr and Cordelia came to the hospital with Zuko to visit Melissa. Just as they reached the door of the ward, Cordelia stopped the men and gestured inside. They saw Lina by Melissa's side, carefully opening a food container. She sterilized the cutlery before gently feeding her mother.

The scene of Lina and Melissa smiling at each other was moving, like a warm and beautiful painting.

Cordelia sighed with a smile. "Lina's such a good child who's grateful and devoted..."

"Of course," Zuko said with a hint of arrogance, "Could my chosen wife be any less?"

"How is it just your choice?" Zephyr frowned. "Back then, your mother and I took you and Toph to the Thompsons to attend Pammy's one-month celebration, and then..."

"Then I held her little hand and got engaged, right?"

"You brat!"

Cordelia smiled, linking arms with Zephyr, and scolded their eldest son, "You have to wait until your father finishes speaking before you can talk!"

"Okay, got it," Zuko sighed.

'Strange...' Zuko and Toph were the darlings of their mother's heart when they were children. How did their father end up the favorite the older they got? 'Ah, women are so fickle!'

Zuko chuckled and was about to knock on the door to enter, but Cordelia stopped him and asked in a low voice, "By the way, has Lina already applied to study abroad in Denmaie?" "Yes," Zuko replied. "But she didn't apply for it. The school invited her, hoping she would further her studies there."

"Is she still planning to study architecture?"

"Yes."

"In that case, won't you two be doing long distance..." Cordelia expressed her concern.

Young couples in love feared nothing more than being apart. Denmaie was in Eropah, not even in the same hemisphere as Centrolis. With such a great distance, anything could happen.

"Mom, don't worry!" Zuko smiled, placing his hands on his mother's shoulders. "Lina and I won't be separated. I've already applied to go with her, so I'll be leaving with her."

"Huh?" Zephyr was surprised. "You're leaving too?"

"The course is only one year." Zuko looked at his father, instantly adopting Toph's sweet coaxing ways. "Dad, you're still strong and vigorous, and the Hamertons can't do without you. But it should be fine without me, right?"

Zephyr pursed his lips. That did sound pretty reasonable. "But what status are you accompanying her with?"

Zuko replied without hesitation, "Her husband, of course!"

"Oh." Zephyr nodded, squinting his eyes. "Your mother and I have no objections about you marrying Pammy. However..."

He raised an eyebrow. "Have you gotten the consent of Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda?"

Chapter 1233

Chapter 1233

Zuko blurted out without thinking, "They'll definitely agree!"

Then, he met Zephyr's cryptic look and corrected himself. "Uh... They'll probably agree."

"Anyway, I've prepared two sets of wedding gifts," Cordelia said, looking at her son. "One for you and one for Toph. If by then you still can't marry my two daughters-in-law..." Zuko raised an eyebrow with a puzzled look.

Cordelia smiled. "Then you two don't have to come back either!"

Zuko was rendered speechless.

Zephyr hugged Cordelia by the waist with a hearty laugh. Not having these two brats come back was just fine, as they wouldn't interrupt his alone time with his wife.

Lina came out of the room, and her face lit up with a delighted smile when she saw the three of them.

"Uncle Zephyr, Aunt Cordelia! You're here!"

"Ahem!" Zuko hurriedly said, "I'm here too!"

Lina took his hand in hers, smiling.

"My parents came to see Aunt Melissa and asked about the progress of her treatment."

"Thanks for your concern, Uncle Zephyr and Aunt Cordelia. My mom's doing fine," Lina replied politely. "It's just that... she's been eating less recently, probably due to the side effects of the medication." "Don't worry. It's only temporary," Cordelia gently reassured her, patting her shoulder. "Fortunately, the cancer cells are under control, and your mom won't have any more problems!"

"Thank you..."

"Silly girl, we're family. There's no need to be so polite." Cordelia liked this gentle, beautiful, and opinionated girl the more she looked at her. She felt that her foolish son was lucky to have had this engagement from an early age.

Cordelia looked at Lina. "By the way, I heard you're going to study in Denmaie?"

"Yes, for a one-year program. I'll be graduating when I return," Lina replied.

Cordelia continued. "Zuko said he's going with you?"

Lina was about to answer when she suddenly thought better of it. No mother would like her daughter-in-law to show off how good her son was to her in her face.

She changed her response. "It's just one year. I can manage on my own."

"Huh?" Zuko was dumbfounded.

Lina secretly pinched him.

Cordelia was surprised. "Why? Don't you want him to accompany you?"

"It's better to let Zuko stay home with you all. I know he's going to gradually take over the Hamerton Group, so he shouldn't leave as he wishes."

Zephyr and Cordelia exchanged a puzzled look.

Meanwhile, two voices echoed in Zuko's mind.

One was his mother's "If you don't marry my daughter-in-law, don't bother coming back!"

The other was Lina's "It's just one year. I can manage on my own. Let him stay home!"

Was he being abandoned by these two women at the same time?

Zuko wailed in his heart.

Finally, Cordelia figured it out. After all, she had been through this stage, too. She smiled, looked lovingly at Lina, and held her hand.

"Lina, what if I say I want you to settle your marriage with Zuko before going abroad? Then, he can rightfully accompany you as your spouse. Will you still refuse?"

"What?"

"Your marriage was arranged from a young age." Cordelia ruffled her hair. "Now it's time to make it official!"

This was Zuko's umpteenth time going to the Thompsons for dinner, but it was the first time he stepped into this house as the prospective son-in-law.

Chapter 1234

Chapter 1234

Although everything around him was familiar-the scenery, home furnishings, and even the service staff-Zuko still sat on the sofa with restraint. He kept his back straight and his eyes focused, occupying only 1/3 of the sofa. There was not even a single crease on his suit or tie.

He had even hired three stylists in advance to perfect his image for today. When the handsome Hamerton heir appeared in the Thompsons' living room, Linda couldn't stop smiling, while Nicholas' expression was rather intriguing.

His smile seemed more like a smirk, his gaze alternating between hostile and friendly. It was a complicated expression as if his daughter would be abducted, but the abductor was someone he had watched grow up. The struggle was clear on his face.

Zuko and Nicholas sat in the living room like that for 20 minutes. Neither of them moved nor said a word. Even the service staff didn't dare to approach.

Lina quietly asked Linda, "What's wrong with dad?"

"I don't know." Linda furrowed her brows. "He had his quirks when he was young, but he wasn't like this!"

Lina was curious. "How was he when he was young?"

Before Linda could answer, Nicholas suddenly stood up and slammed the table. The precious elm wood table top made a loud noise!

"Let's eat!"

Nicholas' voice was deep and powerful, still as imposing as ever, startling Zuko. Thankfully, Zephyr had educated Zuko since he was young, allowing him to remain calm and composed in such situations. Linda glared at Nicholas and pinched his waist.

"Ouch! What's that for?"

"What do you mean 'what's that for'?" Linda complained in a low voice, "Why scare Zuko like that?"

"Uh... How can it be called scaring..." Nicholas mumbled, "I meant to intimidate him while having dinner later!"

"Hmm?"

"Oh, no, no, I mean..." Nicholas quickly put on a smiling face. "I mean, I'll have a good drink with my son-in-law during dinner!"

Lina and Zuko walked behind them and exchanged glances, smiling.

Zuko heaved a sigh of relief. He used to come and go from the Thompsons as if it were his home, but it was not easy today!

The group sat around the dining table. It was clear that the Thompsons had prepared a lavish feast to welcome Zuko. The table was filled with delicious dishes, all of which he liked. However, Zuko sat still and did not touch his cutlery because Nicholas kept staring at him, making him feel uneasy.

Linda was more enthusiastic, continuously putting food on his plate, probably because she was growing more satisfied with her son-in-law as she looked at him.

When the meal was almost finished, Linda took Lina to the kitchen to check the dessert preparations.

Zuko was left alone with Nicholas, and his heart began to race.

"Come, Zuko!" Nicholas smiled, patting his shoulder. "We were busy eating just now and didn't get a chance to drink together! Let's have a couple of drinks now!"

"Sure, okay." Zuko smiled, elegantly picking up the wine glass.

However, he did not expect Nicholas to take out 52% alcohol vodka...

Zuko was dumbfounded. He considered himself to have a decent alcohol tolerance. Moreover, a professional sommelier had taught him and Toph about wine tasting at home since middle school. As he grew older, he occasionally attended social events with his father and could still handle a couple of drinks.

It was just that he never imagined Nicholas had such a trick up his sleeve!

His "couple of drinks" and Nicholas' "couple of drinks" were not even in the same league!

Chapter 1235

Chapter 1235

"What's wrong?" Nicholas asked, raising his deep voice and narrowing his eyes. "Are you drinking or not?"

Zuko forced a smile and replied, "I'll... I'll drink, of course."

"Then fill the glasses!"

"Sh*t!" Zuko let out a soft gasp. "Uncle Nicholas, slow down!"

He watched as Nicholas brought out two whiskey glasses and filled them to the brim before handing one to him.

Zuko had no choice but to accept it. However, he had never even had vodka straight. It felt more like a glass of alcohol rather than something to savor.

"What's the matter? Scared to drink?" Nicholas raised an eyebrow smugly. "Kid, are you even a man if you can't handle this?"

"Uncle Nicholas-"

"Your father must not have taught you these things!" Nicholas leaned closer to him with a mischievous smile. "A real man drinks this. That's the real deal! Don't learn those fancy habits from your father, thinking you're sophisticated just by sipping red wine and eating fancy tiny dishes. Those rich heir types like him always think they're above everyone else! Come, come, bottoms up!"

Zuko held the glass hesitantly, only to see that Nicholas had already taken a big gulp.

"Ah!" Nicholas sounded quite gratified.

Zuko wanted to laugh but dared not. He tried to copy Nicholas and gulped down the alcohol as well.

"Ah!" His voice was louder.

The scorching sensation felt like a sharp blade that sliced down his throat and chest, burning his stomach.

After a while, he felt a bit lightheaded.

Zuko felt his face burn, but he saw Nicholas offering him another glass. This time, he did not refuse and just drank it up.

Nicholas laughed and also downed his own glass.

When Linda and Lina came back, they were shocked. The bottle of vodka on the table was already empty, and the two men seemed to have had quite a bit to drink. They were laughing with their arms around each other and acting like old friends.

"Nicholas, bro!"

"Buddy!"

"Nick! Allow me to salute you!"

"No need to be polite! From now on, wherever you go, just mention my name! I promise you... It will be more effective than mentioning that old man Zephyr! Hahaha!"

Linda and Lina hurriedly rushed over and pulled them apart, but the two men were reluctant to part. They hastily hugged and looked at the two women as if facing a common enemy. Nicholas glared at them. "What are you two doing?"

"Hush!" Zuko made a shushing gesture and whispered, looking up at Nicholas, "They're definitely jealous of how good our relationship is!"

"Yeah, you make sense, buddy! It's sheer jealousy!"

"Nicholas Thompson!" Linda abruptly grabbed his ear.

The sudden pain brought some clarity to Nicholas' mind. His wife's voice sounded deafening.

"You old fool! Have you got any sense? Zuko's never drunk that kind of liquor since he was little. What if you make him sick from downing it today?

"Besides, he's here to propose marriage. Do you understand what a proposal is? You've embarrassed our daughter!"

"Huh?" Nicholas frowned and blinked, seeming to grasp a little understanding in his muddled mind.

His eyes shot to Zuko. 'Right! Today is the day this young man came to propose, so how did we end up drinking together?' "Zuko, are you alright?" Lina supported him, feeling bad, while Zuko could only smile foolishly with an unfocused gaze. "Zuko, why don't you rest in my room for a while?" Lina asked.

"No!" Nicholas stomped his foot.

Lina was taken aback and let him go. Suddenly, under Nicholas' command, dozens of Thompson bodyguards in black flooded into the living room from every direction, creating an overwhelming presence. Zuko became soberer as well. Seeing he was surrounded and catching a glimpse of Lina's worried and frightened expression, he forgot where he was for a moment. All he could think about was protecting Lina.

He gave her a shove... right into her parents' arms.

"Huh? Uncle lan?" Zuko saw a familiar face and gave him a look.

In spite of it, the alcohol had taken its toll, and his mind was still in a daze. "Uncle lan, you... You're here? What are these people here for?"

lan smiled. "Mr. Zuko, have you forgotten that you came to the Thompsons for a proposal today?"

It took Zuko a moment to connect the fragmented memories and make sense of what had happened before the drinking session.

"But if you want to marry our Thompson heiress, you must show your sincerity," lan said.

Zuko was startled. "Sincerity?"

"According to our rules..."

"You wouldn't ask me to fight all of you..." Zuko counted. "30 people alone, right?"

"Zuko!" Lina hurriedly stepped in front of him. "Uncle lan, take them away quickly! My dad's drunk. Are you tipsy, too?"

lan laughed even more heartily. "Ms. Lina, it looks like you're truly standing up for your husband!"

"Yes!" Lina smiled playfully. "I won't allow anyone to lay a finger on the Thompsons' son-in-law!"

"You've misunderstood!" lan laughed again. "When Nick mentioned sincerity, he definitely didn't mean having your husband fight! Instead..." "Yeah! I mean, am I that rough?" Nichola raised his voice. "I've already moved past the fighting stage!"

Lina helplessly said, "Dad, then what do you want to do?"

The tipsy Nicholas smiled mysteriously and stumbled toward his daughter and son-in-law, lowering his voice to a whisper. "I have a big secret... "Lina, I have a family heirloom... Something that's not usually taken out. An exceptional treasure! Heh! I plan to give it to Zuko!"

"What?" Lina was stunned and subconsciously looked at her mother.

Linda shrugged, looking puzzled, and rolled her eyes at Nicholas. "Lina, don't mind your dad. He's drunk."

Lina teased, "Dad, why don't you keep this family heirloom for me instead? Why give it to him?"

"Silly girl! This family heirloom is passed down only to men! It's because you're a girl!"

"Huh?"

Nicholas smiled. "But I'll let you have a look today!"

He then shouted, "Bring it in!"

Nicholas' men parted to two sides instantly. Four men walked in slowly with uniform steps, the heels of their shoes tapping the ground with a heavy sound as if they were part of a solemn ceremony. Lina furrowed her brows, observing the four men who seemed to be carrying a corner of something each.

As they got closer, she froze.

The family heirloom they brought in was... a washboard!

Chapter 1236

Chapter 1236

Zuko was now completely sober. He hadn't had time to react when Nicholas dragged him away, and then his ears were filled with the man's voice narrating how he had made full use of the washboard back in the day, how he had pacified Linda, and so on.

While listening to the stories, Zuko found another glass of vodka in his hand. By the end of it, he had lost track of how much he had drunk.

In a daze, he felt a soft hand hooking onto his arm, and a gentle voice whispered in his ear, "You've had so much to drink. What do we do now?"

"Let Zuko stay here! He's not an outsider," Linda said.

"Which room should he stay in?" Lina asked.

When Zuko woke up, he was lying in a beautiful princess room-Lina's. The air was filled with a familiar fragrance, and a lovely thought crossed his mind.

He had drunk too much yesterday, and it seemed Lina had helped him.

'Did we have...'

Zuko couldn't control his smile and subconsciously felt the space beside him.

However, there was no residual warmth. He lifted the blanket and noticed that his clothes were intact. Nothing had happened. It seemed that the beautiful thought was just his imagination.

Zuko sighed, feeling the lingering effects of alcohol from yesterday as his temples throbbed. The fragrance of the pillow made him unable to resist his wandering thoughts, and he buried his face in it to sniff it repeatedly. Then he moved on to the blanket. After that, he rolled around on the bed, chuckling to himself in satisfaction.

Suddenly, he realized that he should not be content with just this. No, of course not!

He was about to come up with a naughty idea when Lina walked in with some drinks and breakfast, placing it gently on the bedside table.

Zuko quickly lay down and pretended to be asleep.

Lina felt his forehead with worry. Her soft hand moved from his forehead down his cheek, and everywhere her fingertips touched, it ignited a wave of heat in Zuko.

The heat did not go beyond his neck, but a certain part of him seemed to have undergone a significant change.

"Zuko?" Lina called a few times, but he didn't respond.

She sighed, her eyes full of concern. She gently wiped his face with a warm towel and said softly, "You shouldn't force yourself to drink! You drank so much and still can't wake up... My dad's already awake! "Zuko, Zuko! Did you get alcohol poisoning?"

Upon thinking he was poisoned, Lina panicked and was about to rush out of the room.

"Dad! Mom!"

"Don't shout!" Zuko sprang up.

Lina froze but turned to see him looking refreshed and not at all like someone being poisoned.

"You..."

Zuko realized that he had gone too far with his acting and smiled awkwardly. "Lina, I'm fine."

"Really? Nothing's wrong?" Lina sat beside him and observed him carefully. "You don't feel uncomfortable anywhere?"

Zuko took the opportunity to hold her hand, gently caressing the back of her hand with his thumb.

"Did you hear me coming in?" she asked.

Zuko nodded.

"And you were already awake?" she asked.

"Yes..." he replied.

"Then why did you pretend to sleep? You startled me!"

Zuko looked into her eyes. His cold, sharp eyes softened when facing the one he loved.

"When I came to propose yesterday... were Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda happy with it?"

Lina glanced at him and smiled softly. The Hamertons' wedding gifts were naturally impeccable, and Le Esse was amidst the jewelry prepared by Cordelia.

What else could they be unsatisfied with when the Hamertons greatly valued their future daughter-in-law?

"If they were happy..." Zuko didn't let go of her hand as he leaned close to her ear and said softly, "Then let's get married quickly, alright?"

Lina was stunned. "So soon?"

"Why? Don't you want to marry me sooner?"

Chapter 1237

Chapter 1237

Lina had some concerns. "It's not that. I just returned to this family and haven't spent much time with my parents. It'll be difficult for them to part with me, even though they don't say it out loud. Moreover, my mother in Jangasas hasn't fully recovered yet, and I want to take care of her longer."

Zuko affectionately patted her head. Even if he couldn't wait any longer, he had to respect her filial piety.

"Alright." He smiled. "There's no rush. Besides, I'll be with you when you go abroad for further studies."

Lina happily gave him a loud kiss on the cheek.

Zuko was slightly stunned.

The innocent Lina did not realize that something was off with the way he looked at her. She wanted to kiss him on the other cheek, only for him to grab her wrist and pull her down onto the bed. "Ah!" Lina let out a soft cry.

They were now so close that their noses were almost touching. She could clearly feel his gradually warming breaths and body temperature, and...

Lina blushed instantly and turned her head away, refusing to look at him.

"What's wrong?" Zuko smirked. "You don't want to marry me, and I can't claim some compensation either?"

"W-What do you want?"

He whispered in her ear, "I was thinking about some morning exercises..."

"Zuko!"

Lina pushed him with all her strength, but he held her tighter and followed up with a deep kiss. She was lost in a whirlwind of emotions, and the whole world seemed to spin around her. It was not until she was out of breath from his kiss that he finally let her go.

Zuko struggled to control his desire to possess her. That moment was sacred and beautiful and should be saved for their wedding night. He could wait, and he was willing to do so.

"Lina..."

"Hmm?" Her face was flushed.

"I love you," Zuko said.

Lina's hazy mind suddenly snapped to attention as she looked up.

She was all there was in his clear eyes.

"I love you," he said again. "I don't think I've ever said these three words to you before, but from today on, I'll say them every day as long as you don't get tired of it."

Lina placed her hand on his waist and nestled in his arms with a smile. "I won't get tired of it. I love hearing them no matter how old we get!"

She then asked with concern, "What if I grow old and senile and don't recognize anyone anymore? What should we do?"

"It doesn't matter," Zuko said with a smile. "These three words are your remedy. As long as I say them, you'll always remember!"

The day for Lina to study abroad was getting closer. Melissa's condition was stable enough that she could be discharged from the hospital to recuperate at home.

Lina was worried that Melissa might secretly return to Jangasas, so she transferred Dave to a Centrolis school.

Originally, the Thompsons had prepared a place for them to stay, but Jesse and Melissa refused to move in.

Melissa became more open-minded after getting ill. In the past, she was most afraid of others saying Lina was not her biological daughter. Now that Lina had reunited with her biological parents, a big burden in her heart was finally lifted, and she no longer had to live in fear.

As for Lina, she really had not raised her for nothing over the past 20 years. Despite that, she genuinely felt guilty toward her and the Thompsons.

This was why, while she appreciated the Thompsons' kindness, she did not want to take advantage of them anymore.

Linda repeatedly tried to persuade her, but Melissa remained stubborn.

In the end, Linda got angry and directly slapped the villa key on the table. "Are you going to live here or not?!"

Melissa just smiled and put the key back in her hand. "Don't worry. I know what Lina's worried about. I swear I won't sneak back to Jangasas!"

Linda paused. "Then you..."

"My son and daughter are here in Centrolis. Why would I go back to Jangasas?" Melissa smiled. "I sold the large apartment in Jangasas, and the money is just enough to buy a small house here in Centrolis. "Mrs. Thompson, I've caused you so much trouble. I can't let you support me any longer!" Melissa looked sincerely at Linda. "So..."

"Why so polite with us?" Linda had complicated feelings. "You're also Pammy's mother. We're all family."

"Thank you for treating me like family." Melissa smiled wryly. "But I really don't deserve it. I actually think this is good. We're staying in Centrolis, and we can still meet each other often!"

"Hmm..." Linda held her hand and said, "By the way, you still have that old house, right? Why don't you sell that one, too? With the money from selling both the old house and the apartment, you can buy an even better and bigger house in Centrolis!"

"That won't do!" Melissa smiled. "That old house is for Lina!"

Linda was stunned. "What?"

Chapter 1238

Chapter 1238

"Isn't Lina going to be engaged to Zuko?" Melissa smiled and said, "The old house and the supermarket are all intended to be Lina's wedding gift!" "Melissa, you..."

"I know the gift we prepared for Lina might not compare to yours." Melissa spoke softly. "But this is the best I can do. I pampered Lina growing up, and now that she's getting married, I must give her the best..." Linda's heart jolted, and she instinctively tightened her grip on Melissa's hand-this was what a parent's love was like.

Zuko and Lina's engagement ceremony caused a sensation in the entire Centrolis. The guests were all wealthy or influential. They mingled around, well-dressed and sophisticated, and the couple's exceptional charisma made them a sight to behold.

Zuko was happy with every detail of the engagement ceremony, except for Toph's big mouth!

Toph and Renee accompanied Zuko and Lina, playing roles similar to groomsmen and bridesmaids in a wedding. They were supposed to help them with toasts, but it turned into a live entertainment gossip session when it came to Toph.

"Hey, bro, I heard Uncle Nicholas got you totally wasted when you went to propose.

"Bro, what happened? Weren't you practicing your drinking capacity since you were a kid? Were all those alcoholic beverages you drank fake?

"Bro, I heard you ended up sleeping in Pammy's room. Did you two sleep together?

"Bro-"

"Toph!" Zuko dared not speak too loudly, so he suppressed his voice and gritted each word fiercely. "If you dare say another word, I'll throw you out of here!" Toph had no choice but to obey.

Renee smiled at Toph and took out a handkerchief to gently wipe off the sweat from his forehead.

Aside from the rich and influential, the guests who attended the engagement ceremony were top entertainment stars. Other entertainers were there to look for resources, but Abigail sat in the corner indifferently, which annoyed Jackie to no end.

"Darling, Abigail! Can't you go socialize a bit?" Jackie asked.

Abigail lazily glanced around and did not see anyone she wanted to talk to. She looked down again and started picking her nails.

"Hey, look at Aaron." Jackie nudged her with his elbow. "He's been sticking with Ms. Jenner all night. See how good he is with people! Wait! Doesn't Mr. Hamerton want to kill him?"

Abigail looked at Jackie like he was a fool and could not help but laugh. "I heard he's Neil's successor. With Neil's support and considering that Neil is Cordelia's cousin, why would she treat him poorly? Besides, Zuko has reached such a high position. Does he really care about a young guy in his 20s?"

If Zuko did not like Aaron Goodman, all of Aaron's paths would be blocked. Zuko would not even need to personally do anything.

At that moment, Aaron approached with a glass of juice and handed it to Abigail gently.

Abigail thanked him and took a sip, tasting the sweet and sour flavor. "Grape juice?" "Yes." Aaron's smile was charming. "I guessed that you'd probably like this flavor." Abigail smiled curiously. "How did you know?"

"Because... you're just like this grape juice-both sour and sweet!"

Abigail giggled, and Aaron took the opportunity to chat with her. They talked about literature and art, and Abigail discovered that Aaron was very knowledgeable in these areas, speaking with great expertise. As they chatted, he attentively helped her with small pastries, poured her a glass of water, and even found a pair of flats for her, allowing her to temporarily relieve the discomfort of wearing high heels. Abigail enjoyed the conversation with him and did not realize that a pair of eyes had been observing her while socializing.

"By the way, Aaron, you told me so much. Why didn't you talk about the gossip in showbiz?" she asked.

"Even with an eight-hour work schedule, you still need to take a break after work," Aaron replied honestly. "Besides, chatting about entertainment gossip here seems a bit informal, right?" "Um..." Abigail wanted to say that she actually enjoyed hearing gossip.

"Abigail, are you tired of the topic I just mentioned?" Aaron's voice softened. "It's okay. Let's change the subject."

"She has nothing to talk about with you!" A deep voice suddenly sounded like a hammer striking Abigail's heart.

Jacob walked over with a stern face.

Abigail's mind went blank, and Jacob pushed her behind him before she could react.

"Hi." Jacob smirked as he looked at Aaron hostilely. "My name's Jacob Welsh, a lawyer. In our line of work, we encounter all kinds of unusual situations, but there are no ways to resolve them." Abigail was puzzled. "Jacob, what are you—"

Jacob turned serious as he reached out to shake hands with Aaron and blurted, "Mr. Goodman, have you paid all your taxes?"

Chapter 1239

Chapter 1239

The question took aback Aaron. "Why? Is checking taxes now a lawyer's responsibility?"

Jacob looked more serious. "It's everyone's responsibility!"

Feeling intimidated by the imposing aura of the prominent lawyer, Aaron stood stiffly and didn't dare say another word.

Abigail couldn't help but chuckle and gave Aaron a subtle look.

Aaron cleared his throat and said, "Uh... Mr. Welsh, please rest assured. I've always been a law-abiding artist."

"Is that so?" Jacob squinted. "You're still single, right? Do you have any rumored girlfriends? I hope there won't be any cheating scandals that implicate Abigail one day?"

"Mr. Welsh, what are you talking about?" Aaron winced, sweat forming on his forehead.

Jacob's voice turned stern. "I'm saying, watch out!"

He cleared his throat and stood closer to Abigail to physically block her. His expression was wary and hostile.

Abigail's heart thumped. She could smell Jacob's aftershave from being so close to him. Looking at his pressed suit jacket, she imagined a future where she could put the jacket on him, pass him his briefcase, and send him off every morning...

She couldn't help but chuckle, her eyes filled with him and her anticipation for the future.

"Mr. Welsh, I don't quite understand what you mean..." Aaron grimaced. "I..."

"I mean, I'm Ms. Fox's personal lawyer!" Jacob emphasized the word "personal". "If you dare to do anything illegal or improper, you should stay away from Ms. Fox. Otherwise, I'll ensure you end up behind bars!"

"Uh, I..." Even Aaron, slow on the uptake, understood the situation now. He forced a smile and turned to hurriedly disappear into the crowd.

Jacob watched in the direction he left, standing righteously like Abigail's guardian.

Abigail looked at him and couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a wave of sweetness.

She was about to hold his arm, but the man raised his hand and adjusted his tie, skillfully avoiding her touch.

Abigail quickly withdrew her hand, feeling like she had acted out of place, and pretended to tuck her hair behind her ear.

"Heh, this guy." Jacob smiled unnaturally. "I scared him off with just a few words. I wonder if he has something to hide."

Abigail wanted to say he looked more terrifying than a ghost.

She shook her head. "He just signed with Imperial Media, and Cordelia is known for managing her artists strictly. No one dares to mess around under her watchful eye."

"Oh, uh..." Jacob's eyes shifted, and he muttered a sour remark, "I hope I didn't interrupt your date."

"What did you say?"

"Nothing, it's nothing!"

"You know, Jacob, actually I-"

"I'm going to offer a toast to Zuko!" Jacob scratched his head with a chuckle and quickly disappeared into the crowd of guests.

Abigail's gaze dimmed slightly, her eyebrows lightly furrowing. No matter how she thought about it, she couldn't understand.

Did he come between her and Aaron with so much concern because he was jealous, or was he truly fulfilling his duty as a lawyer to check taxes?

He referred to himself as her personal lawyer, but did he really mean it, or was he just saying it for Aaron's sake?

Abigail couldn't figure it out.

Abigail lowered her head and returned to her original spot, away from the crowd. She picked up her plate and forcefully poked at the small cake with her fork.

Aaron passed by in front of her again. Unlike before, he didn't even acknowledge her presence this time.

"Hey..." Abigail was about to call out to him, but he simply drifted away as if he hadn't seen her.

Chapter 1240

Chapter 1240

Abigail whispered, "What's going on? He's not even saying a word?"

"Oh, Ms. Fox, I'm sorry!" Aaron's manager followed behind, trying to explain. "Aaron didn't mean to ignore you!"

Abigail paused, asking, "Then what did he mean?"

'Of course, he was afraid to talk to you!' the manager thought.

The manager forced a laugh and said, "He's preoccupied. He went to check his studio for any signs of tax evasion!"

Abigail felt like turning into a statue on the spot.

"Still pretending after all this?" Lina's playful voice came from behind.

Abigail quickly turned around and spotted Lina, elegantly dressed in a red embroidered dress that showcased her grace.

Lina walked over, laughing at Abigail's ruined cake.

"You two are so obvious that even outsiders can see it clearly. Why are you both hiding and avoiding instead?"

"W-We're not..." Abigail blushed. "Jacob... He couldn't possibly..."

"Couldn't possibly like you?" Lina sighed. "If he doesn't like you, then why is he so hostile toward Aaron? They don't know each other at all. There's no reason for it."

Abigail lowered her head and fell silent. She had her own concerns. Dating in the entertainment industry wasn't easy. If her relationship with Jacob were exposed, it would bring unnecessary trouble for him. Even if they wanted to stay together, would the fans and paparazzi leave them alone?

Regular people could hold hands in public when they dated, but not her. Every detail of her relationship would be scrutinized. They would be rumored to have broken up and reconciled countless times.

Jacob might have a good temper, but he probably wouldn't handle all of that well. He needed a quiet life, not one under the spotlight day in and day out.

Taking a deep breath, Abigail forced a smile.

"Never mind." She spoke softly. "I'm a contracted artist of Imperial Media now. I just want to serve the company well and make money... We'll leave the rest to fate!"

"Hey, Abigail-" Before Lina could finish her words, Abigail made an excuse about having a schedule and hurriedly left.

Lina stood alone, muttering, "I was going to say that I'd throw a party for you later if you're willing to be a bit bolder..."

Zuko approached from behind and gently held Lina's slender waist. "What's wrong?"

There seemed to be a hint of melancholy in Lina's eyes.

Lina sighed lightly, looking at him. "When will Abigail and Jacob admit their feelings for each other?"

Zuko chuckled. "You can't rush these things."

Lina said, "I'm afraid I won't see it happen before I go abroad for further studies."

"They both have their own concerns and might not be ready to talk about it." Zuko comforted her. "There's no rush. Let's wait and see!"

He looked at the engagement ring on Lina's finger. Naturally, he had no mood to worry about other people's matters today. He was too excited, after all.

"From today on, you're my fiancee." He rubbed her nose and smiled tenderly. "There's only one step left before I take you home as my wife!"

"Who said that?" Lina teased. "It might be two or three steps, depending on your performance!"

"Oh..." Zuko squinted and suddenly grabbed the back of her head.

Before Lina could react, she was caught in his deep kiss as he enveloped her in his arms. When he finally let her go, she buried her red face in his chest, not daring to look around. Zuko chuckled. "Mrs. Hamerton-to-be, are you happy with this performance of mine?"