Ch. 1331..1340

Chapter 1331

Chapter 1331

Zuko shared the same thought. Still, what kind of approach should they use to make Toph accept this?

They were at a loss for a good solution and remained silent. It was then Zuko's phone rang. Cordelia's anxious voice sounded on the other end. "Zuko, Toph just rushed out in a panic, saying... that Renee wants to break up with him! Contact your brother and find out what's going on!"

Zuko hurriedly dialed Toph's number, but there was no answer, no matter how many times he called.

Lina told him not to panic and called Renee.

When Renee answered, her voice was trembling. "Lina, I... I just got home and found that my mom's missing!"

"What?!"

Lina and Zuko had a bad feeling at that moment.

"Renee, listen to me." Lina calmed down and explained the situation, "We already know about your mother. Is it because of this that you broke up with Toph?"

"Lina..."

"Why are you being so foolish?" Lina sounded a bit anxious. "No matter what, we won't let you face this alone!"

Renee remained silent. On the other end, her voice was filled with sobs, lasting a long time.

"Don't cry for now," Lina said softly. "Calm down and think carefully. Where might Aunt Kaitlyn have gone? She's your mother, so you must know her better than we do!

"Once you've figured out a likely place, send it to my phone, and I'll send people there to search!"

"Lina!" Renee suddenly remembered something. "I asked you to go west to find Lena previously, and I sent you a phone number, right?"

Lina paused, realizing that it was indeed the case.

"My mom must contact that number frequently." Renee's voice trembled slightly., "No... What I mean is, my mother's other personality. My mom's other personality must contact the number frequently. I think she might have gone to find him!"

"Alright, I understand," Lina replied.

Zuko had investigated the background of those individuals. They were a small gang from the outskirts of Centrolis who exploited the gray area.

Zuko looked at Lina, and they were about to locate Toph. But not long after, another call came. This time, it was from Zephyr.

Zuko had never heard his father so panicked. "Zuko... hurry, come to the hospital!"

A sinking feeling overcame him. "Dad, what's wrong?"

"Toph! He..." Zephyr choked on his words.

For half his life, he had been proud and had weathered life's challenges. Yet, even the strongest could be moved by their children's troubles. "Toph had a car accident, and he's receiving treatment. Your mother and I are outside the emergency room..."

"I'm on my way!"

Zuko turned pale as he and Lina rushed to the hospital.

Although Toph's life was not in danger due to prompt treatment, he suffered severe injuries and would need time to recover in bed.

Cordelia and Zephyr sighed in relief, holding each other and shedding tears. Zuko observed from a distance, realizing his parents were truly aging.

Chapter 1332

Chapter 1332

Zuko and Toph's safety was the top worry for Zephyr and Cordelia. To ensure their parents' peaceful retirement, they needed to ensure their own safety first.

Zuko hugged Cordelia and patted his father's shoulder. He understood that despite Zephyr's calm appearance, he was truly concerned. However, he couldn't reveal his vulnerable side in front of Cordelia. "It's okay, everything's fine," Cordelia's voice trembled as she looked at her older son. "I was so scared!"

"Toph's had good luck since he was young." Zuko faintly smiled. "Mom, don't worry too much. He's destined for good luck. He'll be okay!"

"But this car accident is strange." Zephyr's brow furrowed. "He's always been a decent driver. How could this happen—"

Before he could finish, Lina arrived with a few people.

"Even good drivers can be victims of intentional harm!"

Zuko walked over to Lina, who gave him a small smile.

"These detectives are my dad's friends. When we heard about Toph's accident, I informed them. This case isn't complicated, and it's already been solved while Toph was getting treated!" "Really?" Zephyr and Cordelia rushed over.

"Dad, mom, don't worry." Lina held Cordelia's hand. "Zuko and I have an answer about who's responsible. We asked the detectives to confirm our suspicions."

"That's right." One of the detectives smiled. "Ms. Thompson and Mr. Hamerton guessed correctly. The culprits behind Mr. Toph's accident belong to a small gang, and they've been apprehended." "The one leading them is... Kaitlyn?" Zuko narrowed his eyes.

The detective nodded.

"They confessed that Kaitlyn ordered them to monitor Mr. Toph. They used a heavy truck and purposefully collided with him, causing substantial damage to the car. Luckily, Mr. Toph's car has high safety ratings. Otherwise, it could have been a tragedy."

"Damn it! I want her killed for hurting my son!" Zephyr was livid.

"Dad, please calm down." Lina advised, "The one who tried to harm Toph isn't the real Kaitlyn, but her split personality."

Zephyr did not respond but gently embraced Cordelia's shoulder.

"This is a bit troublesome now," Cordelia said softly. "She's Toph's future mother-in-law and Renee's biological mother! We..." "Dad, mom, don't think too much for now," Zuko said. "The most important thing now is to let Toph recover with peace of mind."

"But..." Lina was worried. "It's not just about Toph's recovery. The most crucial thing now is that Kaitlyn is missing!"

The group fell into silence again.

Just then, another detective, who had briefly left to make a call, returned with a smile directed at everyone. "My colleagues finished the interrogations." Lina was surprised. "Already?"

"Those fellows weren't mentally strong and confessed quickly. They admitted that they were working for Kaitlyn. She paid them, and the money came from an account owned by someone named Melvin Thompson..."

Lina and Zuko were stunned.

Kaitlyn hadn't declined money from Melvin. The true Kaitlyn, however, didn't want to be connected to Melvin. Yet, her alter ego had no problem accepting his support.

This explained why Melvin had pressured Renee into impersonating Pamela multiple times.

The detective added, "The plagiarism of Ms. Thompson's project design has been resolved too. It was Kaitlyn who did it."

Chapter 1333

Chapter 1333

Lina gripped the hem of her clothes, her fingertips trembling slightly.

"As expected, she tampered with Renee's computer," she said in a low voice, "There's a lot of company information on Renee's computer, and she had no guard up against Kaitlyn!"

"That's likely." The detective nodded. "After Kaitlyn stole the data, she intentionally leaked it to the rival company. And that little-known small company was formed by the gang members we've interrogated. Their aim was to whitewash themselves, while the mastermind behind them is Kaitlyn!"

Lina took a sharp breath and leaned against Zuko weakly.

"Is split personality really this frightening?" Cordelia murmured, "She's completely like a different person!"

"Yes." Zephyr looked at her. "I think the only solution now is to find her and restrain her."

"Renee has already contacted a rehabilitation center," Zuko said. "But her intention is to accompany her mother there and take care of her."

Cordelia was appalled. "That's not acceptable! We can't involve Renee in this further. She's supposed to marry Toph!"

"Mom, weren't you the one suggesting they postpone..."

"We thought Kaitlyn had some ulterior motives at that time, and your mom and I were worried that Toph would be deceived. As such, we suggested postponing their marriage," Zephyr said in a heavy tone. "Now that the truth is clear, Kaitlyn doesn't have any ulterior motives. She's just mentally ill. It's better if Toph marries Renee sooner. At least our family can protect her."

Lina and Zuko exchanged a smile and gently intertwined their fingers.

"We know that Renee is a good child," Cordelia said softly. "She doesn't want her mother to suffer alone in the rehabilitation center, so she'd rather accompany her even if it means... breaking up with Toph." "Don't worry, mom!" Lina pondered for a moment and said, "I'll take care of this!"

Zuko had not reacted yet when he saw Lina call lan and speak like the Thompson heiress she was.

"Uncle lan, I need your help with something... Please have your men locate Kaitlyn immediately!

"Yes, you can inform some of your friends from the old path if necessary. Please, ask them for a favor. I'll definitely visit them soon to thank them!"

After she finished, she put away her phone and looked at Zuko with a light smile. "You don't have to worry about this. Just take care of Toph. With the Thompsons' influence, finding a person shouldn't be too difficult.

"But if Kaitlyn is evading our pursuit using her other personality, locating her might be a bit challenging."

Zuko stared at her, speechless.

Lina waved her hand in front of his eyes. "Hey, what's wrong with you?"

Zuko smiled and whispered in her ear, "Nothing."

"Then why are you staring blankly?"

"I was just thinking..." He squinted and chuckled. "It's great to have a mob boss' daughter as my wife!"

There was still no news of Kaitlyn in the following days.

Renee had searched every place she could think of, including the old house in the old city area, but there was still no sign of her mother.

She could not eat or sleep and was extremely anxious.

Toph was still lying in the hospital room, and her mother caused all of this.

Renee looked at the hospital ward through the window. She could not help crying.

Lina continued to send people to search for Kaitlyn while she stayed with Renee in the hospital.

One day, Zuko came and waved at Lina from a distance to gesture not to let Renee see him.

Lina was puzzled, so she found an excuse and left. Zuko took her to a secluded corner in the fire escape corridor.

"What's going on?"

"Uncle lan couldn't reach you just now..."

Lina checked her phone and found several missed calls. She had put her phone on silent mode and didn't hear any of them. "Did he find Kaitlyn?"

"Yes." Zuko lowered his voice. "His men had been watching the old city area, and they finally found Kaitlyn's traces yesterday."

Lina sighed in relief, but she was also puzzled.

Kaitlyn had been missing for four days. How had she managed during this time? Even if she had a split personality, could that personality survive without eating or drinking?

Zuko sensed her doubt and explained, "She took Renee's money and the jewelry Toph had given Renee and sold them to a jewelry store.

"Uncle lan said some jewelry store owners contacted him proactively to show him pictures they took because those weren't regular jewels. The store owners didn't dare to buy them, but they took pictures. Among them... was the ring my mom gave, Le Fari."

"What?" Lina was astonished.

"That ring is invaluable, so the sharp-eyed owner naturally wouldn't dare to buy it. But there's a silver lining to this, as the store owner kept Kaitlyn's contact information. That's how Uncle lan's men managed to trace her to the old city area."

Lina sighed.

Renee was her cousin, yet their lives took completely different paths.

While she was separated from her parents at a young age, she was lucky to be raised lovingly by her adoptive parents.

And Renee?

She wasn't welcomed into the world with hope. Melvin saw her as an instrument, and Kaitlyn had two personalities. She got stuck in between, and it was truly tough.

"Oh, by the way, I need to tell you something." Zuko ruffled her hair. "Chris and Lena will be back soon."

"Really?" Lina finally had a smile on her face.

"Yeah. Lena's injuries have almost healed. According to Chris, she's been insisting on returning to Centrolis these past few days, saying she wants to see you." Zuko leaned over and said half-jokingly, "It seems my wife's charm is quite something, huh?"

"Zuko!" Lina playfully punched him. "What nonsense are you spouting? Didn't we agree to set them up?"

"Let's not talk about that. Chris will be sad at the mention." Zuko could not hold back his amusement. "Once those two return, you'll get to witness the shattered heart of a pure-hearted young man!" Lina giggled.

"Honey, there's something I need to remind you of!" Zuko suddenly remembered something. "When Lena returns, don't let her get close to Renee. According to Chris, Lena's already figured out that Kaitlyn sen the attackers, and she's holding a grudge. She's determined to avenge this."

Zuko smiled faintly. "Honey, only you can control her."

Chapter 1334

Chapter 1334

While conversing, they suddenly heard sounds from behind the fire escape corridor's door. Swiftly, Zuko opened the door, revealing a visibly embarrassed Renee, her head lowered.

Lina was surprised, then realized Renee must have overheard their conversation. She felt sad and embraced Renee gently, whispering, "It's okay."

Renee murmured, "I'm sorry..."

"No need to apologize. It's not your fault."

"That ring... It's an heirloom of the Hamertons, but my mom..."

"Thankfully, it's been found," Zuko said with a faint smile. "You shouldn't carry this guilt. We trust you with Toph. When he wakes and sees you, it'll help more than any medicine!"

Yet Renee couldn't shake off her guilt. "Lina, did they find my mom?"

After a pause, Lina nodded gently.

"Can I come with you to find her?"

"Renee, it might be better if you stay."

"But she might listen to me!" Renee insisted. "Let me try. She's not really like this!"

Zuko's expression grew serious. Lina was uncertain.

At this point, no one could persuade Renee otherwise.

The next day, Renee joined them in the MPV.

The vehicle had seven seats, and everyone was present except for Toph, who was still in the hospital. Two more cars followed, each filled with Thompson bodyguards.

Based on the information they got, Kaitlyn had left the old city area and was headed to the suburbs.

The suburbs were mostly mountains, with few people living in that direction. Continuing on that path would lead them out of Centrolis. Interestingly, that area also passed through the forest where Lena had been attacked.

No one spoke in the car. Renee seemed nervous, biting her lip, and her eyes looked like they were about to tear up.

Lina and Zuko sat together while Lena stared at the back of Zuko's head. Beside her, Chris occasionally glanced at Lena and cleared his throat loudly.

His efforts finally caught Lena's attention. She turned and asked, "Feeling sick?"

"Huh?" Chris was surprised. "No."

Lena replied coldly, "Then be quiet."

Chris was confused.

Zuko got a call from lan's team member, informing him that they had caught up to Kaitlyn and sent him the location.

As they got closer to their destination, the road became more mountainous, and the conditions worsened.

Zuko moved to the front seat next to the driver, checking the GPS on his phone and giving directions.

Suddenly, Lena pushed Chris aside and quickly sat next to Lina.

Zuko turned around and was shocked. Chris was equally surprised.

"Uh..." Chris finally managed to say after a moment, "You... What are you doing there? That's Zuko's seat!"

"But he's sitting up front now, right?" Lena said casually.

Chris stuttered, "Well, y-yes, he did move to the front, but..."

"We're almost there, and he definitely won't move back now!"

Chris widened his eyes. "Uh, Zuko, aren't you coming back here?"

Zuko struggled to contain his laughter as he shook his head. "Lena's right. We're almost there, so I won't keep moving back and forth. Besides, I still need to give directions... Take the right turn at the upcoming fork."

"Zuko Hamerton!"

Chris had no choice but to restrain himself at that moment. However, when he looked up, he unexpectedly caught Lena gazing at him as though he were an idiot. Then, he overheard her whisper softly, "So ridiculous."

Zuko couldn't hold back any longer and chuckled from the front seat.

"Hey..." Chris whispered from the back, "Do you really need to stick so closely to Pammy?"

"Huh?" Lena earnestly clarified, "Why shouldn't I be close? We're about to confront Kaitlyn, the person who attacked me mercilessly! If there's a conflict, staying near Lina will help me keep her safe!"

Chapter 1335

Chapter 1335

"Lena! You just recovered from a serious injury. Who do you think you can protect? Can you protect anyone?" Chris's frustration grew.

He recalled how he had urgently rescued her from near-death, covered her medical and living costs, arranged a place for her to recover, and even transformed into a home chef, making various dishes every day. He had treated her like royalty...

Yet, what about her? She appeared entirely unappreciative!

He had nurtured her back to health so she could endanger herself once more for someone else?

Chris erupted in anger, exclaiming, "You've barely healed from your wounds. Can't you look after yourself?"

The car fell into silence. The driver braked, glancing at the normally composed Hamerton heir through the rearview mirror, perplexed by his sudden outburst.

Lina gently nudged Lena, signaling her to move to the back.

Lena remained unmoved.

The incensed Chris was not finished. He turned to Zuko and shouted, "You're responsible for your wife's safety!"

Zuko knitted his eyebrows. "Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed again?"

Chris crossed his arms, sulking as he turned his gaze out the window.

Lina and Zuko exchanged a glance and chuckled.

To Lina, this wasn't just a young man's shattered heart but fragments of that broken heart cruelly flung at everyone around him.

The cars swiftly halted at the mountain's base.

The Thompson bodyguards were once members of gangs. They were not just quick but also skilled in understanding the terrain, which helped them catch up to Kaitlyn effortlessly.

Kaitlyn was driven to a cliff. She stood near the edge, her hair tangled by the wind, and her expression grew darker.

Renee dashed ahead of everyone without hesitation. She came close to Kaitlyn and stopped abruptly.

"Renee, you're here," Kaitlyn greeted with a smile.

Renee's heart skipped a beat. This woman wasn't her real mother-her true mother's smile was different, filled with love, even in her eyes.

"Renee, why did you bring all these people here? Did I... Did I cause trouble again?" Kaitlyn held her forehead, seeming to struggle. "My head hurts so much... Renee, what's happening to me?"

"Mom, why did you go out alone? Why did you have people hurt Toph?" Renee's voice trembled. "Toph had to stay in the ICU for a long time because of the accident!"

"Are you here to question me?" Kaitlyn's smile didn't reach her eyes. "Hah, that brat can forget about breaking up with you. He deserves whatever comes to him!"

"Mom!" Renee's voice rose, "It's not him breaking up with me. It's me wanting to break up with him!"

"It's a breakup either way." Kaitlyn's gaze had a strange glint. "Renee, don't worry. As long as I'm here, you two won't be apart... You're going to marry into the Hamertons. You'll make that jerk Melvin pay me back!"

Renee stepped back, her heart aching.

"Aunt Kaitlyn, watch closely!" Lina stepped forward, gripping Renee's shoulder. "She's Renee, your daughter! When Melvin asked her to act as me, you told her not to take what's not hers. Renee is honest and kind, just like you! But you... What did you just say?"

"Honest and kind? Hahaha!" Kaitlyn laughed maniacally.

"What's the use?" she yelled. "Things like this, intangible, only get exploited!"

Kaitlyn continued to gaze at Lena, who stood behind Lina, while she spoke. Her look seemed evasive. However, Lena stepped forward with a mocking smile and positioned herself in front of Lina and Renee. "Why do you have this expression?" Lena grinned. "Like you've seen a ghost upon seeing me?"

"You..."

"I'm sorry I didn't die." Lena's demeanor turned icy. "Not only am I alive, but I'm also here to avenge myself!"

"Lena!" Lina pulled her back and shook her head.

Renee spoke with determination. "Please don't harm my mom!"

Then she told Kaitlyn, "Mom, I realize this isn't truly you... You're unwell, battling dissociative identity disorder. This voice is from another side of you. To be exact, you're not my mom but a monster lurking within her!"

"So you've figured out so much?" Kaitlyn tilted her chin. "Just as I'd expect from my daughter!"

Chapter 1336

Chapter 1336

Kaitlyn suddenly felt a splitting headache. Her face twisted, and she crouched down, clutching her head and trembling all over.

When she stood up again, the affectionate gaze she had for Renee was finally back!

"Renee..." She scanned the area, her lips quivering. "Pammy, Zuko, you're all here!"

"Aunt Kaitlyn!" Lina exclaimed with joy.

"I'm sorry, so sorry..." Kaitlyn knelt, hands pressed together, repeatedly apologizing, "I... caused you trouble... I don't know what I was doing. I..."

"Aunt Kaitlyn, it's an illness." Zuko sighed gently.

Honestly, seeing his little brother injured hurt him deeply. He wished he could confront the person who had harmed his brother!

But Kaitlyn was unwell and couldn't be reasoned with.

"Aunt Kaitlyn, come back with us now. If you agree to treatment, you'll recover."

"Yes, return with me!" Renee urged, reaching for her mother's hand. As she moved closer, she assured, "Mom, I found a great rehab center with skilled doctors and top-notch equipment. You won't suffer. I promise!"

She extended her hand, meeting Kaitlyn's affectionate gaze. Renee was certain her true mother was back.

However, as Kaitlyn reached for her hand, she spasmed, convulsing horribly.

Regaining consciousness, she realized she had nearly touched Renee's hand and hastily pulled away!

"Mom?"

"What a caring daughter... Planning to electroshock me in rehab?"

"No, mom! It's for your well-being..."

"You just want to kill me!

"No, it's you who wants to kill her!"

Kaitlyn suddenly changed again, as if she were performing a monologue on her own.

"You're so despicable. That's my daughter! You even want to use my own flesh and blood!

"Hah! I'm using her? Well, why don't you ask if she's willing to be used by me?

"No... You can't hurt her...

"She's a useless piece of trash if she can't even fulfill a simple request of mine!"

Everyone around was dumbfounded, watching Kaitlyn 'perform' on her own-except for Renee, who was already sobbing uncontrollably.

"I just wanted some money! That's my purpose!" Kaitlyn looked wicked again. "Why, is it too much to ask for? Which of these people doesn't have a motive of their own? You..." She pointed at Lena. "Ask yourself! Don't you have any motive being in the Thompsons? Hahaha!"

Kaitlyn gritted her teeth. "Your motive might not be any nobler than mine! What you want might not even be satisfied with money, huh?" "Enough of your words!" Lena's voice was stern. She was sure the old witch had not read her diary, but she had somehow hit the mark. Kaitlyn inched closer to the edge of the cliff.

"I just wanted some money... Why did Melvin treat me so badly? Why should he die so easily?"

"Mom, please stop!" Renee begged through tears. "Come with me, okay? Mom, let me take you home. After we go back, I'll cook for you...

"Mom..."

Renee got closer to her step by step while Kaitlyn remained motionless, her facial expression changing rapidly.

Kaitlyn suddenly stepped to the very edge of the cliff-the consequences of falling off would be unimaginable.

Renee turned pale in fright and hurriedly shouted, "Mom, don't go any further!"

Kaitlyn smiled faintly as she turned to look at Renee and resolutely put one foot out.

"Mom?"

"Renee, I know my condition probably won't get better." Kaitlyn's voice trembled, but she was resolute. "The only thing I can do for you now is to get rid of the person inside of me!" Renee immediately understood what she intended to do. She rushed forward like a madwoman but was pulled back before she could reach halfway.

Kaitlyn smiled faintly, as if she had detached from worldly matters.

"This is all I can do for you now." She looked up at the sky and muttered, "I'd rather die than let you hurt my daughter again!"

After saying that, she turned around and jumped off the cliff.

"Ah!" Renee screamed in shock, her legs going weak. She stood there, dazed, her eyes vacant like a limp puppet.

She finally realized that both extreme joy and extreme sorrow could not be verbalized.

Chapter 1337

Chapter 1337

Renee had a long dream, taking her back to her childhood. There, she saw the sun setting and her mother waiting at the street corner. Their days together, while simple, overflowed with happiness. As Renee's consciousness slowly returned, she was hesitant to open her eyes. She longed to return to that dream and those carefree days.

A teardrop moistened her eyelashes, rolling from her eye's corner.

Kaitlyn had left this world, leaving Renee an orphan. After the funeral, Nicholas and Linda brought her back home, treating her like their own daughter.

Cordelia and Zephyr visited often. Even Toph, still recovering, hobbled over on crutches to be by her side, his cheery disposition brightening her somber life like the sun. Strangely, the more they did, the sadder Renee became. If only she had decided earlier and sent her mother to get treated-maybe these events wouldn't have unfolded. One evening, Lena noticed Renee barely ate. After a pause, she chose to make soup and offer it.

Just as she approached the stairs, Chris suddenly appeared! The soup might have met his head if Lena hadn't been composed.

Staring at each other, Lena asked, "W-Why are you here?"

Chris chuckled without words.

"Are you staying at the Thompson's?" Lena was puzzled. "Why do I keep seeing you here all the time?"

"Is it that you don't want to see me?"

"Not that, it's just strange." Lena sighed. "You have a home, yet you're always here!"

Chris stood tall. "Don't you know why I'm here?"

Lena wrinkled her brow and chuckled.

Ever since they returned from that village, Chris had become a ticking time bomb, always carrying a sense of resentment in his words.

Chris' gaze fell on the bowl of soup in her hands. "This..."

"Oh, Ms. Renee hasn't eaten, so I'm sending this to her."

"I haven't eaten either!"

Lena was confused.

Before Lena could react, Chris sat at the dining table and sulked with his arms crossed over his chest. He said, "Lena, let's see how you handle this!"

Lena was even more confused.

She gazed at him, then at the kitchen, and murmured, "There's some food left in the pot. Help yourself!"

"You..." Chris grumbled, but Lena paid no mind and took the food upstairs.

Chris lingered in the Thompsons' dining room until late at night. Household staff came and went, finding his behavior amusing. However, no one dared laugh in his presence. They all pretended he wasn't there. staying busy.

Bored, Chris slumped onto the table when fatigue set in. He dozed into a dream. In the dream, Lena transformed into a devoted wife, cooking and tending to chores. They lived in a small village, sharing a content life.

Lena's image blurred in the dream, replaced by Zuko. He questioned, "When will you make a move?"

Surprised, Chris defended, "I crafted her a sniper rifle. I gave it to her..."

Zuko laughed, his voice fading.

Resting his head on his arm, Chris mumbled, "What does 'give her a shot' mean? Zuko, I lack energy now. I need to eat first..." "Here, enjoy your meal!"

Out of nowhere, a voice echoed.

Chris furrowed his brow, catching a delightful aroma in the air.

Abruptly, he opened his eyes, realizing he wasn't dreaming. A plate of pasta was on the table!

"What..."

He was stunned.

The pasta was in a white porcelain plate, and the hand holding the plate was as fair as the porcelain, as if it was part of the craft.

Lena's beautiful eyes were fixed on him.

Chris snapped back to attention, sat up straight, and solemnly accepted the plate.

"Did you... make this?" he asked.

Lena chuckled softly. "You're quite something, sleeping in someone else's dining room."

Chris smiled and picked up a fork, quickly devouring the pasta. It was delicious and not greasy. He slurped it all up, finding it incredibly satisfying.

Lena watched him silently and suddenly felt a strange emotion. "It seems you were really hungry..."

"Hmm?"

"I heard you mumbling in your sleep just now." She pursed her lips. "Saying something about not having energy and needing to eat before doing anything. Hey, what are you going to do that requires energy?" Chris stopped to think for a moment, and his face turned slightly red.

He chatted half-heartedly with Lena while eating. "Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda are asleep? I've been here for a while but haven't seen them."

"They don't usually have a big dinner. They only have some soup at night, so they usually stay in their room."

Chris grinned and kept eating, finishing everything.

"I'm not a great cook." Lena said softly, "But filling the stomach is not a problem, so bear with it."

"No, no, it's delicious!"

Lena glanced at him. "You're really good at comforting people."

"No!" Chris straightened his back and raised his voice. "I'm being sincere!"

Lena could not help but laugh. When the two locked eyes, her face heated up.

The air seemed to freeze, and time stopped.

Lena could only hear her heartbeat, thumping and blooming like the blossoming flowers.

"Lena..."

Chris was about to hold her hand, but she quickly dodged.

They felt a bit embarrassed-one looking down, the other glancing around.

Time suddenly felt long and awkward.

Chris wondered if he should break the thin barrier. He then thought that he had already made his intentions clear enough.

He gathered his thoughts, chuckled softly, and said, "Lena, I have a question for you."

"What?"

"Is it really because you like Pammy that you're so good to the Thompsons?"

Chapter 1338

Chapter 1338

Lena furrowed her brow.

"I don't think so," Chris said, looking into her eyes seriously. "You're not that type of person, Lena. Don't misunderstand me. I have no bias against homosexuality, but I just don't feel that's you. You're into guys!"

Lena gave him a sharp look, and the blush that had just faded returned to her cheeks.

"I'm right, aren't I?" Chris leaned in. "You're into guys, and maybe someone like me, right?"

"You..."

Lena felt a mix of irritation and amusement. Given his naive expression, she wished she could give him a wake-up slap.

She looked seriously into his eyes. "Chris, when did I ever say I'm attracted to women?"

"You mentioned it once, about liking Pammy..."

"Are human emotions that one-dimensional? Can't I appreciate her for other reasons? I see her like a sister. Does it have to be romantic?" Chris paused, struggling for a moment.

Lena stood up with a trace of amusement in her eyes. She wasn't going to let him off the hook easily. "Done eating?"

"Um..."

"If you're finished, clean your own dishes and the pot!"

"What?"

Before Chris could react, Lena had vanished.

He stood there dazed, then chuckled and scratched his head. He went to wash the dishes and the pot, humming a tune as he worked.

Life returned to its peace after the storm passed.

The pressure was actually now on Zuko. He had to face the embarrassment his father had faced back then-making a baby.

First, his grandparents at Southeast Aciatic bombarded him with video calls three times a day, asking when they would get to hold their great-grandchild. Then, his grandparents in Melorian also bombarded him with video calls three times a day, asking the same thing.

Sometimes, there were conflicts in timing, so they just held a group video call together, which turned the urging into a quarrel between Rowan and Janine.

"Janine! I'm talking to my grandson. Why are you meddling?"

"Hmph! Rowan, you still haven't outgrown your annoying ways, even in your old age! Zuko is my grandson. You're the one meddling!"

"Your grandson? Oh please, does he even have your last name?"

"But he doesn't have yours either!"

"At least I've given my precious grandson a Count title. What have you given him?"

"I've given more! The entire Baker Group is what I'm leaving to him!"

"Fine! Since you put it that way... Zuko, I'm telling you! As long as you let me get my great-grandchild within a year, the Irwins' Count title will continue to be passed down! My great-grandchild will be the next little Count!"

"Grandpa, Grandma, please calm down..."

Zuko was drenched in sweat, quickly exiting the group chat.

The first time Lina saw them arguing, she was shocked. Now, she was used to it. She smiled lightly and continued to bury herself in the stack of documents she had to deal with.

Even on her days off, she would bring unfinished work home.

Zuko looked at how earnest and diligent his wife was and suddenly felt like he had not married a wife but rather a young toiling worker bee.

Chapter 1339

Chapter 1339

"Uh... honey." Zuko wrapped his arms around Linar from behind, burying his face in her neck and taking a deep breath. His voice was husky as he asked, "Shouldn't we... fulfill the elderly's wishes?" Lina put down her documents and turned around to caress his face with a smile. "I'm not against that. Didn't we agree to let things happen naturally?"

Zuko felt her flat stomach. "But, it's been so long without any news. Is it because I haven't worked hard enough?"

"You..." Lina pushed him away.

Not enough? He was clearly quite diligent! How many times had he claimed his allowance this month?

The Hamertons' rule was 70 dollars, but he had made tens of times that!

"Honey!" Zuko continued to cling to her and whined.

Lina cradled his face and reasoned with him. "Zuko, I really don't have the time or mood today! Besides having a lot of work to do, I also need to check on Renee."

Speaking of Renee, Zuko thought of Toph and turned serious. "By the way, it seems like she's avoiding even Toph's visits lately. When my parents go to see her, she locks herself in her room, too. Will something go wrong if she keeps this up?"

"That's what I'm concerned about." Lina nodded. "A person's personality is bound to undergo some changes after experiencing a huge change. I thought of getting her a psychologist, but she refused." This answer was within Zuko's expectations.

Renee was a girl with a sensitive personality, naturally carrying a touch of melancholy.

Toph's cheerfulness had only saved her for a while, but it seemed to have lost its effect since Kaitlyn's passing.

"People like her won't actively seek help even if they know there's a problem." Zuko stroked Lina's head. "People tend to avoid addressing their problems, especially someone as sensitive as Renee." "But it's best if someone can constantly guide and counsel her," Lina said.

Zuko thought for a moment. "Isn't Lena living with your parents?"

"Don't bring it up." Lina smiled wryly. "Renee seems to really dislike Lenny and doesn't want to talk to her. Also, Lenny mentioned that the way Renee looks at her seems different from usual."

Zuko frowned. "What does that mean?"

"I don't quite understand either." Lina sighed. "In any case, Renee doesn't want to see Lenny. So when I get home later, I'll see what's going on with Renee. I'll also ask Lenny to go out to work so she's not constantly hanging around Renee. I think that could solve some of the problems."

Zuko smirked. "Isn't Lenny's job to protect you?"

"What are you saying?"

"I'm serious." Zuko hugged Lina gently. "Actually, I quite hope that you have someone like her protecting you. I'm very at ease having her around you, but..."

"But what?"

Zuko smiled. "But Chris has a short fuse and turns extremely explosive!"

"He really likes Lenny?" Lina's eyes lit up.

"If he didn't like her, would he have gone to such lengths to track her down out of the city? Would he have stayed by her side and taken care of her when she was seriously injured, making her various meals?" Lina smiled and grew impatient. "Why's Lenny like a block of wood and not reacting at all?"

Zuko was about to say, "All her attention is on you, so what can she react to?" but he changed his mind at the last moment.

"Maybe she feels inferior. After all, Chris' background isn't what regular rich heirs can compare with. Someone of his background would usually choose an heiress from the four major families."

"Oh..." Lina's eyes lit up cunningly, and she smiled, "I'm curious which heiress from the four main families Mr. Zuko Hamerton would pick."

"Hey, sweetie..."

Zuko playfully stuck out his tongue. He realized he had put himself in a tricky situation by saying the wrong thing.

It was Chris' fault!

"My wife can outshine any woman in those four families," he said, holding her hand. "So, it's not something I need to be concerned about. Chris should be the one bothered by this!"

Chapter 1340

Chapter 1340

Lina smiled and gently kissed Zuko on the lips.

It was destined to be another restless night tonight.

The next day, Lina set up a meeting with Lena at the company.

Lena was cautious, not using the main entrance but a side door and a dedicated elevator to get to Lina's office.

"You don't need to be so careful," Lina said, pouring her some tea with a smile. "Since you'll be working here soon, you'll come in daily through the main entrance." "What?" Lena looked surprised, meeting Lina's gaze.

Lina handed over documents related to the sales department. "The project I've been handling is almost done. Now, the main focus is selling these properties."

Lena glanced at the documents and turned to Lina, clearly surprised. "You... want me to help sell houses?"

"Why not?" Lina smiled, gently holding Lena's hand. "I've considered it. You're still young. You shouldn't always be at home or looking after me. You should have your own world."

Lena quickly responded. "If you think staying with the Thompsons isn't good for me, I can leave anytime! I can also go back to my old job..."

"I don't want you to go back. That's why I want you here at the Thompson Group."

Lina's words caught Lena off guard.

"Being at the Thompson Group is much better than your previous job as a janitor," Lina said earnestly. "The other departments here have high education requirements that don't really suit you. After thinking it over, the sales department values individual skills, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Plus, you can earn a good amount of money here, so—"

"Okay, I'll go!" Before Lina could finish, Lena gave a firm answer.

Lina paused before she smiled.

Lena smiled back. "Lina, I'm fine going anywhere as long as it's your request."

Lina gripped Lena's hand tighter, her heart warmed by the touch. She was increasingly sure that the bonds between people were truly mysterious. Someone as sincere in her feelings as Lena was a rarity, especially in these ever-changing times.

Lena looked down. "I also think Ms. Renee might prefer it if I'm not around at home."

"What?" Lina was surprised.

"It's true." Lena nodded slightly. "I can sense it. She's a bit distant with me... I understand. In the beginning, I didn't treat her mother well."

Lina tried to dispel her doubts. "Lenny, Renee's mom just passed away. Her wedding plans with Toph have been delayed, and the wedding might not happen for another couple of years. Her moodiness isn't about you. It's just temporary emotional turbulence. Don't take it personally."

"How could I?" Lena smiled softly. "Actually, it's my fault. My presence triggered Kaitlyn, which pushed her to make those extreme choices."

"Don't blame yourself for this! She had deeper psychological issues. No one could have foreseen this outcome."

Lena lowered her head and held the teacup, her thumb tapping the rim nervously.

Soon, Lena officially joined the Thompson Group's sales department. Despite having worked from a young age, she was accustomed to solitude, so being part of a team was a new experience.

She felt the pressure as she observed the elegant sales department bustling with activity. She didn't want to disappoint Lina or shame the Thompsons.