Ch. 1271..1280

Chapter 1271

Chapter 1271

Desiree's screams alerted the welfare institution's management staff. Despite the kids running fast, being young made it easy for a few adults to catch them quickly. Desiree was led to the resting room.

The staff gave her a towel to wipe herself, as she had no suitable clothes to change into. She sat on the sofa, trembling with anger-not from the cold.

"Zuko," she called out, her voice shaking with distress.

Zuko stood aside, hands in his pockets, appearing indifferent.

"Zuko, I'm so cold," Desiree hugged herself and conveniently sneezed.

Zuko glanced at the weather forecast on his phone, which showed 26°C, and looked outside at the sunny weather.

"Cold?" He chuckled softly. "I see. You're soaked all over. That's why you're cold."

Desiree seemed delighted. "Exactly."

"So, what can I do to help?" he asked.

"You..." She wanted to suggest he could hug her or lend her his shirt but hesitated, thinking it might seem too deliberate.

Zuko then suggested, "The sun is shining outside. You can go out and get some sun to quickly dry your clothes."

"What did you say?" Desiree was stunned.

"The staff don't have any clothes for you to change into right now." Zuko smiled. "You're completely soaked, and just using this towel won't be enough. It's better to go out and enjoy the sun. You won't be cold anymore, and your clothes will dry up, right?"

"Zuko, you..."

"I'm thinking for your sake." Zuko sounded sincere. "Desiree, you're a guest my grandmother brought. I'd worry about something bad happening to you, too!"

Desiree was exasperated. Everything Zuko said avoided mentioning their relationship but implied it.

She was just his "guest", and his suggestion for her to go outside and dry off was "for her sake".

Desiree gnashed her teeth with a scowl.

At that moment, the welfare institution's director, Jill Latymer, approached them. When she arrived at the door and saw Zuko inside the room, she walked in, lowering her head. This kind-hearted middle-aged woman exchanged a glance with Desiree.

The Harpers sponsored the welfare institution, and Desiree was in charge of the foundation. However, 80% of the funds were not used for charity but instead invested by the Harpers or lent out with high interest rates. The money they earned went into the Harpers' pockets, and the welfare institution did not receive a single penny.

The Harpers made the entrance of the welfare institution look grand and magnificent, but the living conditions of the elderly and children inside were not improved. They lived worse off than the pets in wealthy households.

Jill knew everything but had to be cautious. She was aware that the Harpers only saw her as a decoration. She had considered reporting their fake charity work but was afraid of retaliation. She also feared the Harpers would demolish the welfare institution in a fit of anger, leaving the elderly and children with no shelter.

Over the years, Jill could only bear it, trying to stretch every penny to make ends meet.

Today, however, these kids broke the deadlock, and the Hamerton heir was also there. She finally saw a glimmer of hope.

"Madam Latymer."

While Jill was lost in thought, Zuko's deep voice interrupted her.

Chapter 1272

Chapter 1272

"Have those kids been caught?" Zuko asked.

Jill hesitated briefly, then smiled fawningly and nodded. "Yes, they've all been caught, not one missing. They're outside."

"Let them come in," Zuko said.

"Okay." Jill gestured outside, and the kids were brought in.

When Desiree saw them, her eyes glinted viciously. She was about to raise her hand to hit them but noticed Zuko nearby. She held back her impulse and retracted her hand. Zuko noticed her subtle move.

He then looked at the kids. They appeared around 12 or 13 years old but seemed younger, closer to 8 or 9 years old, due to malnutrition. Their sharp and fierce gazes stunned Zuko. Children who grew up in a warm and loving environment would never have such a look.

Zuko approached them slowly. The kids eyed him cautiously and stepped back.

"Do you know what you did wrong?" Zuko's voice was low and husky.

The kids remained silent.

"Regardless of the circumstances, splashing dirty water on others is wrong. You're still kids. Did someone ask you to do this?"

"Yes, Zuko!" Desiree exclaimed, "There must be someone behind this. We need to find out who!"

Jill was at a loss. "Mr. Hamerton, well..."

Zuko chuckled. "Do what Ms. Harper says and find out who's behind this."

"That's easier said than done." Jill chuckled wryly. "How do I do that?"

"Ask the children."

"Exactly!" Desiree gritted her teeth and said hatefully, "We not only need to find out but also teach them a lesson! How can we get the truth out of them without giving them a good beating?"

"Ms. Harper, you... Aren't you going too far?" Jill hesitated. "They're still children. Do you really want to use corporal punishment on these kids in my welfare home?

"Besides, they may not necessarily be targeting you with the dirty water." Jill pulled the kids behind her, lowering her voice. "Maybe they were just playing around and accidentally splashed water on you."

"You're talking nonsense!" Desiree barked, "They did it on purpose! Jill, if you don't get to the bottom of this today, we will withdraw the charity fund tomorrow!"

"Withdraw it if you want..." Jill mumbled, "We don't get a single penny from the fund anyway. Do you expect the welfare institution to worship this fund as an offering?" "Say that again!?"

Jill trembled, bowing her head and not saying anything.

Desiree was enraged and went up to slap Jill. Just as she was about to strike her again, Zuko caught her wrist.

"Hitting someone is not honorable for a young lady like you." Zuko frowned, looking at her coldly. "What did Madam Latymer say wrong that you think treating her like this is appropriate?" "Zuko, I—"

"Don't hit innocent people." A cold voice came from the entrance. "I'm responsible for my actions. If you have something to say, say it to me."

Desiree was stunned when she saw a petite figure coming in wearing a cap that looked particularly familiar.

Desiree froze, taking a while to recover. "It's... you?"

Lena lifted the brim of her cap with an icy smirk. "I instigated these kids. I taught them to seek revenge for grievances and retribution for enmities. What about it? Have they taken revenge on the wrong person?"

Chapter 1273

Chapter 1273

Desiree turned pale and trembled involuntarily, struck by fear at the sight of Lena's icy face. It brought back memories of the time she was held at gunpoint.

She screamed and sought refuge behind Zuko, her voice trembling as she told him, "Zuko, she... She's a hitman from the Thompsons! She almost helped Lina kill me last time in the restroom at the bar!" Zuko raised an eyebrow, surprised, and asked, "Last time at the bar? How did you provoke Lina to almost get yourself killed?"

"I..." Desiree couldn't find the words to explain.

Her hand still clutched Zuko's clothes, but he shook her off firmly.

Lena smirked.

In her desperation, Desiree cried out, "Zuko, you have to believe me! S-She knows how to use a gun! And she's with Lina... Yes, they must've conspired together to instigate these kids to splash dirty water on me! It must be!"

Zuko's gaze turned ruthless. "Are you so sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure!"

"In that case, let's call the police."

"What?" Desiree was stunned.

"I said, since you suspect someone is conspiring and intentionally trying to harm you, why not report it to the police and let them handle the matter?"

Desiree looked up and met Zuko's cold eyes.

Suddenly, she came to her senses.

What was she doing just now? Crying and making a scene would not solve the problem. It would only make Zuko detest her more!

Moreover, she couldn't get the police involved. Getting splashed with dirty water was a minor issue. If the police were involved and discovered the charity fund's flow, it could become a major problem! Desiree regained her composure, wiped away her tears, and pretended to look obediently at Zuko. "No need to call the police. After all, this person is connected to Lina. Creating a scene and causing a rift between us... It wouldn't be good for anyone, right?"

"What's not good about it?" Lena sneered. "There was no bond, to begin with! How's there a rift?"

Desiree could only glare at her with hatred.

Zuko smiled slightly. Getting Lena to play this role seemed like the right decision.

Lina had come up with the idea.

They had been discussing how to get the police involved and decided to cause a distraction. By drawing the police's attention elsewhere, they could naturally shift the focus to the Harpers' charity foundation. It had taken them a while to figure out how to create the distraction. That was until Lina recalled Lena's offer to look for her at the bar should she be needed.

"Let's get her in this," she had suggested.

Zuko had been worried about it, but he was reassured by Lena's cooperation today.

However, looking at Lena now, she seemed to be genuinely protecting Lina instead of acting.

Zuko furrowed his brow.

"Ms. Harper, if you suspect me, then I suggest you report it to the police," Lena said coldly. "The police can find out the truth quickly, and I'll accept any punishment I deserve. Isn't that right, Madam Latymer?" "Yes, that's right!" Jill chimed in quickly. "Ms. Harper, you've suffered so much here. I can't rest easy if we don't resolve this by reporting it to the police. You know what? I'll call the police, and I—"

"Stop!" Desiree snatched her phone.

Jill was startled and stood still.

Lena's expression remained as cold as ever.

"Uh... I don't want to ruin my relationship with Lina." Desiree came up with an excuse. "Besides, it was just a splash of dirty water, and I'm not seriously hurt. Let's forget about this. Hah! Consider yourself lucky!"

"I don't need that kind of luck, okay?" Lena blocked Desiree at the door with a wicked smile. "Ms. Harper, are you afraid?"

"Let me through!"

"What exactly are you afraid of, Ms. Harper?" Lena smirked. "Even someone without an ID like me isn't afraid of the police. Why are you afraid?"

Desiree just wanted to leave this troublesome place, but Lena stood in her way. Despite Lena's petite figure, she possessed astonishing strength.

Desiree tried to push her way through, but Lena stood firm.

At that moment, Lina hurried over.

"What's happening here?" she asked with a light smile as she walked to Zuko's side. "I rushed over as soon as I received your message. Has someone bullied Desiree?"

Zuko looked at her lovingly and caressed her face. She was truly a master at acting, almost on par with his award-winning actor of an uncle.

Zuko also got in character and recounted the whole incident.

Lina played along, nodding and shaking her head from time to time.

After listening, she said seriously, "Desiree, please don't misunderstand! How could Lena and I conspire to harm you? Are you so afraid of being harmed because you have a lot of guilty secrets?"

"You-"

"Don't be upset. I'm just kidding." Lina laughed. "As for reporting to the police, it's not necessary. I've already brought them here!"

"What?"

Lina patted Desiree's shoulder. "Desiree, Zuko and I share the same view in this. You're our guest, and we mustn't neglect you. If something happens to you at the welfare home in Centrolis, then Zuko and I must handle it properly!"

Desiree was at a loss for words.

"Desiree, I believe the law will see you get justice."

Lina glanced outside. Several police officers in uniform, with their badges displayed, had already arrived.

Desiree panicked.

She had never encountered someone like Lina before! Never mind that she was going crazy. She was dragging her down too!

"Officer, this is Ms. Desiree Harper," Lina introduced. "Just now, she was splashed with dirty water by these children. I hope you won't be influenced by online information and give us a more authoritative judgment!"

The lead investigator nodded.

He first asked the boy, "Why did you splash dirty water on her?"

Intimidated by the police, the boy hesitated and said, "B-Because she didn't give us any money! The welfare home's conditions are terrible, and we can't even get enough to eat!"

"How could that be?" The police officer looked at Desiree, puzzled. "The Harper Foundation wouldn't withhold the children's meal money, would it?"

"Officer, I also believe things aren't like this." Lina winked. "That's why you must investigate this matter thoroughly and give Desiree justice!"

Chapter 1274

Chapter 1274

"No, really, there's no need!" Desiree gritted her teeth and glared at Lina.

She finally understood what was going on. It seemed that Lena had instructed those children, but they actually took orders from Lina.

Her motive was clear-she wanted to draw the police into the situation. If the police got involved, they would uncover the dark secrets of the Harpers' charity foundation.

Desiree seethed with anger but felt helpless against Lina. At this point, she could only find an excuse to escape.

"Zuko, Lina, this is just a small matter. It doesn't matter at all! Kids don't know better. How could I hold it against them?"

"But, Desiree..."

"Enough, I won't pursue this!" Desiree stood up abruptly and walked toward the exit. "I suddenly remembered that Grandma Janine has something to discuss with me today. I... I'll go back first!" The police officers were left puzzled.

"What's the meaning of this? You want to report the incident one moment and decide to stop pursuing it the next. Do you think we're making this trip for fun?"

Zuko stepped forward, stopping the lead investigator with a cryptic smile.

"There's no rush," he said. "The annual charity gala of the Hamertons will be held three days later. I'll reserve seats for all of you!"

The Hamertons' charity gala was grand, with many celebrities in attendance. Thanks to the influence of Imperial Media, most of the prominent figures in the entertainment industry were present, including Abigail.

As soon as the press saw her, adrenaline rushed through them. They held their cameras and microphones high, afraid to miss even a second of footage.

Abigail's status in the entertainment industry was undeniable. She was an artist under Imperial Media and had been chosen as the ambassador for the Thompson Group's film studio. She was also friends with the Thompson heiress.

Some envious reporters sighed.

"Comparison is really the source of misery. Some people are just born lucky. You can't help but give it to her!"

"Hmph! Nobody's perfect!" Another reporter sneered. "What's so great about her? It's easy to find faults in her!"

"What do you mean?"

"Watch this!"

Abigail spun on the red carpet and signed the autograph board. Her smile lit up the surroundings, and camera flashes flickered.

Suddenly, a grating voice came from the press area.

"Ms. Fox, there are so many stars here tonight. Do you think they're all the same as the ones who attended the opening ceremony of the film studio?"

Abigail was taken aback by the question and did not know how to respond.

"Ms. Fox, I heard that several veteran actors are still hospitalized. It's all because of the poisoning incident at the previous event!"

Abigail tried to maintain a polite smile. "What does that have to do with me? The police have already investigated that matter and caught the suspect-"

"Almost everyone had some problems during the entire event, but you were not affected, Ms. Fox."

"You..."

Abigail was instantly appalled.

This incident had caused some controversy at the time, but it was suppressed under the combined pressure of Imperial Media and Sol Entertainment, thus not causing a bigger uproar. Despite the lack of evidence, some people still believed that Abigail was the one who spiked the drinks and orchestrated the sinister plot.

Chapter 1275

Chapter 1275

Abigail was hurt by the haters who wrote and spread hateful posts to slander her. She had endured storms of criticism, but she couldn't help but feel hurt and alone. She didn't understand what she had done wrong. Since her debut, every step she took was under intense scrutiny. Even the smallest mistakes were magnified.

"Ms. Fox, as the film studio's ambassador, don't you owe an explanation to your coworkers and the audience?"

Abigail clutched the microphone, her shoulders trembling as she struggled to maintain her smile in front of the camera.

The relentless reporters pressed on.

"Ms. Fox, explain yourself!"

"Yeah, Ms. Fox! This needs proper addressing. You're an artist under Imperial Media, yet you became the ambassador for the Thompson Group. All the other artists except you fell ill on the day of the film studio's opening. Was there a power struggle behind the scenes?"

"Ms. Fox, we want to know the truth!"

Abigail's palms were sweating, and her breathing quickened. She took a deep breath to try to stay composed and glanced around the crowd. Jackie was nowhere to be found, so she had to handle this herself. "Don't worry. I'll provide a satisfactory explanation," Abigail said with a smile. "But this is the red carpet, and other artists are coming behind me. I can't delay their time. I apologize for that!" "Ms. Fox, are you brushing this off?"

"Who said I'm brushing things off?" A sharp voice interrupted the chaos.

Abigail's heart clenched as she looked toward the source of the voice.

Jacob emerged from the crowd like a valiant battle angel descending from the heavens.

"Who said Ms. Fox plans to brush it off?"

Several reporters exchanged looks but remained silent. The remaining reporters focused their cameras on Jacob, sensing that extraordinary news might be unfolding.

"Sir, you're..."

Jacob was wearing a black suit and gold-rimmed glasses. "I am Ms. Fox's lawyer," he introduced himself elegantly.

He stood beside Abigail, blocking her from view. Despite Abigail's height among female stars, she looked short next to Jacob.

"I heard all of your questions just now," Jacob said solemnly, "Making baseless accusations against an artist or their company without evidence can lead to legal consequences. As Ms. Fox's lawyer, I can pursue your legal liabilities!"

Several reporters looked uneasy and put down their microphones, avoiding eye contact.

"I was fortunate enough to be involved in the opening ceremony of the film studio, and I have detailed information on the investigation of this case.

"If anyone wants to know the detailed process, feel free to approach me. But if anyone dares to harass Ms. Fox again, I'll take legal action and send you to court!"

The reporters fell silent.

Other artists stepped forward to smooth things over as Abigail left the red carpet and blended swiftly into the crowd.

Her heart pounded, and she wanted to look at Jacob again. Unfortunately, he had vanished without a trace. She felt a tinge of regret-if only she had held onto his hand earlier! "Strawberry mousse and cheesecake. Which one do you prefer?"

Abigail's eyes snapped up in surprise.

Chapter 1276

Chapter 1276

Abigail pinched herself secretly to confirm she wasn't dreaming.

Jacob held a plate with two pieces of dessert. He wore a gentle smile as he handed it to her.

"I wasn't sure which one you'd like, so I brought both," he said softly. "I've checked this one. It's low in sugar and won't make you gain weight. It's okay to have a little."

Abigail couldn't hide her smile as their hands touched when she received the plate. Her heart skipped a beat, and her mind went blank.

Jacob wasn't doing much better. He had impulsively stood up to defend her when he saw her surrounded by the press, but he worried he had done more harm than good. What if the troublesome reporters started writing fake stories about her, making her life even more difficult?

He brought two desserts to make amends and handed them over. His heart started racing like never before when he accidentally brushed her hand.

They both blushed and lowered their heads, unable to look at each other.

"T-Thank you for just now," Abigail's voice was barely audible.

"It's fine, just doing what I can. I hope it doesn't cause you more problems."

"Hey!" Someone suddenly shouted.

Abigail and Jacob turned their heads simultaneously and noticed Jackie standing behind them. He crossed his arms, pushed up his glasses, and pointed at them indignantly.

"What kind of trouble are you causing? It's like you two are the trouble itself!

"Mr. Welsh! Do you know how many times I've created opportunities for you? I even dismantled the battery of the van to keep it in the workshop for a few more days. All for the sake of getting you two together! "Our Abigail was being criticized like that today, and I endured it without saying a word!

"Mr. Welsh, I've done everything I could for you. Why are you still so clueless?"

Jackie stomped his foot in frustration and drew the attention of some other artists. They turned their heads and smiled at the scene.

"It's just 'I like you'! I'll say it for you both if you're not saying it!"

Abigail blushed and nearly lost her footing.

"He likes you!" Jackie pointed at Jacob and then at Abigail to tell Jacob, "She likes you too!"

"Jackie!" Abigail widened her eyes, looking as though she might cry.

She carefully glanced at Jacob and found that he did not seem averse to the situation. On the contrary, he was smiling affectionately with sparkling eyes.

As everyone around them applauded with smiles, Lina walked over with Zuko, both wearing looks of blessing on their faces.

Lina exclaimed happily, hugging Abigail tightly. "It's finally out in the open!"

Abigail was still feeling a bit dazed, but joy filled her heart.

Zuko patted Jacob on the shoulder, congratulating him for finally getting the girl.

"Hey, Mr. Hamerton isn't exactly accurate!" someone joked. "Mr. Welsh hasn't held Abigail in his arms yet. How can he say he's 'gotten the girl"?" "That's right! Give her a hug!"

Everyone joined in and teased them, some pushing Jacob and Abigail. The two of them gradually got closer, laughing heartily.

Zuko held Lina with an affectionate gaze.

Just as everyone was laughing heartily, the entire hall suddenly fell silent.

Lina froze as she saw Janine arriving with the Baker descendants.

Zephyr and Cordelia quickly went up to greet them. When the Bakers arrived, the gala became even more lively.

"Mom!" Cordelia held Janine with a smile. "You came without telling me in advance! I didn't prepare well enough!"

"It's not your fault." Janine lovingly patted her hand. "I used to make a bold claim that the Bakers wouldn't participate in any Hamerton events. Zephyr knew it, so he didn't inform me either." Zephyr smiled. "Mom, then what happened today? Did the sun rise from the west?"

"I came for my daughter and my precious granddaughter. Is that okay?" Janine looked at Zephyr like he was a defiant son.

Zephyr was rendered speechless. He knew who Janine meant by her precious daughter-it was Cordelia. But who was this precious granddaughter now?

"Grandma!" A sweet voice sounded before he saw Lina and Cordelia holding Janine on one side each. The close bond between the three generations really made them look like an intimate and harmonious family.

Zephyr stood helplessly by the side, his hands clasped in front of him. He was already slightly hunched in middle age, but he still could not escape the fate of being abandoned by his mother.

When he turned his head and saw Zuko making the same gesture with the same expression, he realized they were in the same boat.

Toph squeezed between his father and older brother, patting Zephyr on the shoulder with one hand and Zuko on the other. He wore a polite yet mocking smile.

Then, Zephyr and Zuko beat him up.

"Alright, alright, stop messing around!" Toph hugged his head. "So many celebrities are here! Mind your image!"

"You're not much higher in status, yet you dare to make fun of dad and me?" Zuko retorted.

Toph grinned and pointed not far away. "Zuko, why's he here too?"

Zuko followed Toph's gaze to see Desiree and her father, Albert Harper, standing behind Janine and the Bakers.

"Albert just arrived today," Zephyr said casually, raising his eyebrows as he looked at his sons. "I heard Desiree was splashed with dirty water at the welfare institution a few days ago?"

"No way." Toph's expression was dramatic. "She is already an adult, and she has to call her father to stand up for her when she suffers a grievance?"

"Desiree didn't ask Albert here." Zephyr's expression darkened. "It was your grandmother who asked him to come."

"What?"

"Your grandmother probably has other plans." Zephyr lightly chuckled, feeling confident. "Let's just wait and see."

Zuko nodded. Janine was a remarkable woman and could easily resolve such minor issues!

"Albert." Janine smiled happily, clinking glasses with Albert, not too far away. "It's been quite some time since we've seen each other! How are your parents doing?" "Thanks for asking. They're doing well!" Albert smiled.

The square-faced man's imposing aura emanated from head to toe. His robust physique and commanding presence made him seem like a fierce bandit in a movie..

Chapter 1277

Chapter 1277

"The aim of today's charity gala is to raise funds." Janine chuckled. "Albert, speaking of charity, I'm afraid no one can compare to the Harpers." Albert nodded with a smile and exchanged pleasantries.

Toph sneered and whispered to Zuko, "I remember this old man used to love faking smiles when we were kids. I never thought he'd still be doing it after so many years. "Bro, I heard there's a beauty treatment where they inject stuff to lift the corners of your mouth so it won't droop. Do you think he has had this procedure?"

"Hush!" Zuko glanced at him just as Albert turned their way.

"The Hamerton heirs have grown so big!"

Toph forced the same fake smile he had just grumbled about. "Heh! Nice to meet you, Uncle Albert!"

Zuko nodded in greeting.

Albert squinted as he carefully examined the two brothers, his gaze lingering on Zuko.

"I heard that Zuko's already engaged? The woman who can win over the eldest Hamerton heir must be no ordinary girl, right?" Albert said.

Zuko waited with an indifferent expression.

Albert added, "The young lady seems to have some shady connections in the underworld?"

Zuko smiled and said, "Uncle Albert, you surely don't believe in baseless rumors, do you?"

Albert rebuked, "Desiree told me the young lady looks dashing when she holds a gun!"

"Really?" Zuko answered nonchalantly, "It's a coincidence that I heard something recently, too. The Harper Group is embezzling its charity foundation... Uncle Albert, should I believe this?" Albert was taken aback and did not answer.

Janine grinned and tried to smooth things over. "Of course you shouldn't believe it! Several generations have managed the Harpers' charity work. Now, the responsibility has fallen to Desiree. She's been clever and eager to learn since childhood. She's also gentle and kind, making her a perfect candidate to manage the foundation."

"Yes, Madam Baker's right!" Albert smiled. "Those rumors are groundless and shouldn't be taken seriously!"

Janine discreetly signaled Zuko with her eyes. "Zuko, I think most of the celebrities are already here, and their performances have been going on for a while. Should we move on to the next part?" Zuko understood and immediately gestured for his assistant to go backstage.

Soon, a promotional video began playing on the large screen.

The video showcased scenes of joy and harmony at the welfare institution. The shiny entrance, especially, looked grand.

The audience clapped their hands in response to the atmosphere and the scene.

Albert straightened his back, acknowledging the people around with his gaze. He felt noble.

Desiree felt triumphant, her gaze a thorny provocation that made Lina uncomfortable. Lina forced a smile and raised her glass in a silent toast.

A voice came from beside Lina just then. "What a joke!"

Lina was startled to see Lena staring coldly at Desiree as she ate a piece of watermelon. Lena chewed and spat out the seeds.

Lina had brought Lena into her circle, and they had gotten along well. Although Lena had a mysterious air about her, it did not affect their friendship. After all, Lena was the one who had gotten the kids to splash water on Desiree at the welfare institution. As such, she couldn't be left out of this charity gala.

Lina couldn't help but chuckle when she saw Lena acting so cute and lively, a stark contrast to her usual cold demeanor.

"Alright, she's glaring at me!" Lina whispered with a smile. "Why are you getting angry?"

Lena spoke frankly. "I can't stand that look on her face. It's the look of a small-minded person who's gotten a taste of power."

Chapter 1279

Chapter 1279

Janine stomped her cane on the floor before raising it, pointing at the large screen. "Open your eyes and take a good look! You dragged the Bakers into these outrageous things! What a longstanding friendship!"

Several data transactions involved the Bakers, but Janine had taken precautions to avoid any funds of unclear origin, preventing a crisis.

Albert's plan had gone awry. He had hoped to control the Bakers as well...

Zuko glanced around, and the plainclothes police officers prepared to take action.

Nevertheless, Albert persisted before Janine, using a different approach this time. "Madam Baker! I didn't want to do this, but several investments of the Harpers failed, and the amount involved was too large. We couldn't turn it around, so we borrowed from the charity fund!"

He moved forward and grabbed Janine's arm, almost kneeling.

Janine gave him a disgusted look. "Save your excuses for the police!"

"Madam Baker-"

"And I've handed the evidence to the police in Chaiseland! This isn't the only crime the Harpers have committed." Janine looked at him coldly. "Embezzling charity funds, lending with high interest, and ruining countless families? Haven't you had nightmares spending this kind of money?"

Desiree approached to hold Janine, tears streaming down her face as she pleaded.

Albert hesitated but remained composed. He saw Desiree grabbing Janine's hand and Janine trying to shake them off...

In an instant, he gnashed his teeth and smashed his wine glass. Then, he picked up a shard of glass, pressing it against Janine's throat!

"Ah!" The guests screamed in shock.

But the closest people to Janine were Albert and Desiree!

Janine froze for a moment. Before she could react, Albert grabbed her neck and pressed the shard against her carotid artery!

"Don't come any closer!" Albert's eyes glinted with killing intent. "Take a step forward, and I'll kill her right now!"

"Albert Harper!" Zephyr and Cordelia rushed forward but didn't dare to make any reckless moves.

Despite the pain from being dragged around, Janine's determination remained like a flickering star, refusing to be extinguished.

"Albert... I'm already old. Even if I die here today, it'll still be a worthy death... But you and your precious daughter won't escape!" Janine said.

Albert smirked. "Madam Baker, if you die by my hand, that won't be considered a worthy death! Both of us will perish together! You should ask your kid and grandchildren whether they'd like that or not!" "Albert, let go of my grandmother!" Toph wanted to rush forward, but Zuko held him back.

The crowd had dispersed, leaving only a few plainclothes police officers surrounding them, remaining vigilant.

A bead of sweat rolled down Albert's face.

He gritted his teeth. "Zephyr, if the police dare to arrest me, I'll kill your mother in front of you. I'd love to see who is quicker, the police or me."

Albert signaled to Desiree, who was somewhat panicked. Still, she obeyed his instruction and took out the gun holstered to his waist.

Chapter 1280

Chapter 1280

Janine's neck was scraped, and blood began to seep out.

Albert took the gun from Desiree and pointed it at Janine's temple.

This was his pre-planned move.

Once his crimes were exposed, he would find a way to kidnap Janine or someone from the Hamertons to escape unharmed.

"Zephyr!" Albert raised his chin. "Order your people to step back!"

Zephyr gnashed his teeth, his fists trembling.

He didn't expect Albert to enter the venue with a gun despite their preparations. Passing security checks was beyond imagination!

Cordelia discreetly held his hand. She realized there must be a traitor within the Hamertons collaborating with Albert. Unfortunately, they didn't have time to figure out who it was now. Zephyr reluctantly raised his hand, gesturing for everyone to step back.

"Not bad!" Albert sneered, dragging Janine toward the door.

Cordelia stepped forward calmly. "Mr. Harper, it'll be hard to end things if we let it get out of hand. It'll be a lose-lose situation for both sides. Tell us your conditions, and we'll meet them. "Don't forget you still have a daughter." Cordelia glanced at Desiree. "We're both parents. We want a way out for our children no matter what, right?"

Cordelia noticed the fear in Desiree's eyes, a sheltered young lady who had never experienced such a situation.

Cordelia said softly, "Desiree, do you remember when you came to visit me? I made cookies for you. You said they tasted like a mother's love...

"If you want, I'll make them for you again, okay?"

Desiree sobbed, trembling, and looked helplessly at her father.

Albert berated her not to cry, unmoved by Cordelia's words.

Meanwhile, the police had dispatched more officers to rush to the scene.

Cordelia turned back to look at Zephyr. Their gazes supported each other through this difficult situation.

"Mr. Harper, I'm here to discuss this with you sincerely. Name your conditions, and I'll ensure they're fulfilled."

"The Harper Group is short of 3,000,000,000. Can you manage that?"

Cordelia's eyes lit up. The mention of money indicated room for negotiation. She smiled slightly, about to agree, but Albert's cold voice interrupted her. "In pounds!" "No problem." Cordelia remained calm.

"Don't lie to me!" Albert sternly said, "How could you immediately transfer 3,000,000,000 pounds into my account? You need to sell assets, liquidate stocks, and cash out... all of which takes time!" "Since you know it takes time, let's sit down and talk about it slowly." Cordelia looked at him. "Mr. Harper, as long as you release my mother, I promise to fulfill any condition you have."

"Mrs. Hamerton, that's not the rule, is it?" Albert sneered. "I'll only hand her over if you pay for my demands in full. Otherwise, don't blame me for killing this old woman!"