Ch. 1441..1450

Chapter 1441

Chapter 1441

"What did you say?" Renee could not believe it.

"It's true," Jacquelin replied casually. "Sandra previously used the computer Lena is using. You know who Sandra is, right?"

Renee paused.

Sandra used to be an excellent salesperson, playing a big role in the sales department's success at one time. However, her remarkable skills and good looks had made others, especially Jacquelin, jealous. Jacquelin had been worried that Sandra's exceptional performance might catch the eye of the company's higher-ups, especially Elijah. Thus, she had secretly messed with Sandra's computer. That way, anything Sandra wrote on her computer, whether it was documents, reports, or chat records, would also go to Jacquelin's computer.

Later, Sandra left the company due to health reasons, and the computer had remained unused. That was until Lena took the seat...

"So, you've known everything she's written from the beginning?"

"Yes." Jacquelin smirked. "But she's an odd one. She rarely writes on her computer. It was just that one time when we were working late..."

During that late-night overtime, Lena had not had her diary with her, and her anxious expression had caught Jacquelin's attention. Jacquelin had found it unusual because Lena had always been composed, even in the face of significant events.

She had discreetly accessed the surveillance equipment and monitored Lena's computer.

"I saw what she wrote then. She mentioned how kind her elder sister was to her, how she worked in her sister's company, and how she asked her mother not to worry...

"I didn't understand it at first." Jacquelin grinned. "But later, I figured it out. Her sister... isn't that Ms. Pamela? Jade brought in Lena. And Jade... Well, who else but Ms. Pamela could instruct her?" Renee's scowl deepened.

"Ms. Renee, I should be correct in my analysis, right? What else could she be if not Mr. Thompson's illegitimate daughter?!"

"That's enough!" Renee did not want to hear any more.

She did not know how she managed to walk out of that prison. When she was outside, the sunlight was blinding. She instinctively raised her hand to shield her eyes, suddenly feeling like she was better suited to stay in the shadows.

Her hatred for Lena had been reignited. Originally, she had been under the impression Lena came from a pathetic background, but she turned out to be Nicholas' daughter!

Zuko was working in the study while Lina sat on the couch, quietly admiring her diligent husband. She smiled as she gently rubbed her gradually growing belly.

With the months passing, she found it increasingly difficult to move around. During this time, she decided not to go to the company, entrusting all the work to her husband. Zuko did not ask for much except for a bit more spending money...

Lina moved behind him and gently massaged his shoulders. "Honey, you've been working hard during this time."

Zuko smiled and took her hand, inviting her to sit on his lap.

Lina had gained some weight, and together with the baby, they were heavier than when it was Lina alone. However, this feeling of having the whole world in his arms made the extra weight worth it. Zuko softly kissed her forehead.

Working for her, even for a lifetime, did not feel like hard work.

"Everything is going well at the company, so you don't need to worry," he said softly. "Lately, the real estate sector has been performing well, but I think we shouldn't forget our original business. "After all, the Thompson Group made its fortune through Sol Entertainment. So, I've invested in three more movies and had the entertainment department sign new talents."

Chapter 1442

Chapter 1442

Lina nodded. "You can decide."

Zuko placed his hand on her belly. With the months passing, he could sometimes feel the baby's movements. Right now, their little one seemed to respond to his touch as if greeting him.

"By the way, there's a secret I want to tell you..." Lina's smile was radiant. She leaned close to his ear and whispered, "Our baby... is a girl!" "What?" Zuko's heart skipped a beat, and he could not react for a moment. He was so happy this time that he could not even manage a smile. "A-Are you sure? How did you find out?"

Lina giggled embarrassedly. "I pestered the doctor until she told me! She kept saying that there are rules against revealing the gender during ultrasounds, but she told me to prepare a princess bed after the checkup!"

Zuko was overjoyed, and he almost gave Lina a princess carry. He remembered his mother saying that the Hamertons had always been having more sons than daughters. In Zephyr's generation, all the others were boys aside from Zennie.

Going on, it was Zuko and Toph. Moreover, there was a superstition that Cordelia needed to have seven sons before they would finally have a daughter. It was why she stopped after giving birth to them both. Zephyr had always been a little regretful that he had no daughters.

Now, Zuko had a daughter!

He was ecstatic and could not wait to call and share the news with his entire family.

"Stay calm for now!" Lina admonished. "Sometimes, ultrasounds can be wrong..."

"No, no!" Zuko was sure. "I know it's a daughter!"

"Even so, let's not say anything until she's born." Lina whined, "It's only a few months from now!"

Zuko smiled and gently embraced her. If his wife did not want to disclose it, he would enjoy his happiness in secret. From now on, though, he needed to prepare baby supplies.

The doctor had mentioned a princess crib, right? He would buy the best princess crib, hang dreamy curtains all around it, and ensure that the Hamertons' little princess felt like true royalty from the moment she arrived.

"By the way..." Lina looked at him with some hesitation and asked, "Renee..."

"You still can't let go of her, can you?"

Lina shook her head. She felt torn. Her feelings for Renee were complicated. They had faced hardships together, but Renee had now repeatedly challenged her bottom line.

She wanted Renee to be rightfully punished but did not want her to end up too badly.

Zuko said, gazing at her, "Honey, I've found her."

"Really?" Lina exclaimed.

"Yes," Zuko said softly. "I made a deal with Jacquelin, promising the safety of her family in exchange for her finding a way to lure Renee out... She actually did it."

In fact, on the day Renee entered the prison, the female guard had recognized her and reported her whereabouts to Zuko. This included the conversation between Jacquelin and Renee. Lina asked him, "What did Jacquelin do?"

Zuko licked his lips but did not say anything. He did not know how to tell Lina about it, and he could not be sure whether it was true or false.

Chapter 1443

Chapter 1443

Chris arrived at the apartment. As soon as he entered, he smelled a delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen.

There, he found Lena busily cooking, tending to a pot of chicken soup that had been simmering for hours. Though soup required patience, she did not seem to mind. She lifted the lid and took a whiff, then used a small spoon to taste it before she smiled in satisfaction.

Chris leaned against the kitchen doorway, a mix of emotions washing over him as he observed her.

He walked over quietly and embraced her from behind, causing her to jump in surprise. He tightened his hands around her waist, and she relaxed upon recognizing his familiar touch.

"What are you doing?" she asked softly.

Chris did not reply. Instead, he took in her scent and kissed her neck tenderly.

Lena shrank into herself, her face flushing.

Chris chuckled. It seemed he had discovered her sensitive spot.

"Even though this isn't for me, it still feels great," Chris said softly.

"What?"

"To come home and see you busy in the kitchen, the house filled with warmth and the aroma of cooking, and to have you beside me. This is the life I want most."

Lena served him a bowl, and Chris acted flattered. "What? Isn't this a treat for pregnant ladies?"

"Are you having it or not?" Lena asked with a casual tone, but there was a hint of a smile on her face.

Chris could not have been happier. He carried it to the dining table as if he were holding a precious treasure and savored every spoonful.

Lena turned off the stove and sat across from him, watching him with a faint smile.

The life he had described earlier was exactly what she wanted most, too.

Chris looked at her and said thoughtfully, "Lenny, about what you told me the other day..."

"Don't mention it to anyone," Lena said in a hushed tone. "I don't want others to know. If it weren't for wanting to explain that photo to you, I wouldn't have told you either." Chris lowered his head, hesitating to speak. "Lenny, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure."

"Are you absolutely certain that you are Mr. Thompson's daughter?"

Lena was taken aback. What could be uncertain about this? Her mother had written all those things in her diary, and they were all based on actual events. Nicholas had saved her mother's life, and her mother had loved him deeply, willing to do anything for him. Did the "anything" not include bearing his child?

She nodded firmly, her gaze unwavering. "I'm sure. Everything my mother wrote is true!"

"Your mother's words are true, but..." Chris looked a bit anxious. "But she didn't explicitly write that you are Nicholas Thompson's daughter."

"Chris, what are you trying to say?"

Chris cleared his throat and reached into his pocket for the crumpled DNA test report. He had secretly taken Lena's hair for a DNA test, and the result showed she had no biological relationship with Nicholas. This result, though logical, had taken him by surprise. When he had read Lena's diary and listened to her life story, he had harbored doubts. He knew what kind of person Nicholas was, so he could not believe he had ever betrayed his family.

Despite that, when the result was presented before him, he felt a pang of sorrow for Lena. He understood her yearning for a family and the fantasies she had built around it. He wanted to protect her and could not bear to shatter her illusions. After all, Lena was unlikely to spread the truth. So, why not let this beautiful misunderstanding continue?

Chris licked his lips and gently held her hand.

"You're acting a bit strange today." Lena looked at him, puzzled.

"It's nothing," Chris said softly. "I just want to discuss something with you..."

"What is it?"

"I know this might sound hasty, but it's what I truly want..." Chris looked into her eyes and spoke seriously. "Lenny, let's get married."

Lina woke up to see Linda's gentle smile. There was a soft blanket on her, and she realized that Linda had draped it over her while she was sleeping.

"You're such a big girl now, but you still can't sleep properly!" Linda chided. "You came back home and collapsed on the sofa right away. Aren't you afraid of catching a cold?"

Lina blushed and smiled apologetically, leaning into her mother's embrace.

When she had come back to her parents' home today, she had intended to spend quality time with them. However, as soon as she stepped inside, she had not even sat down for a moment before she felt fatigued and soon dozed off.

"I don't know what's come over me. Lately, all I want to do is eat and sleep." Lina stretched and spotted some fresh oranges on the table. Her mouth watered at the sight.

"It's because you're at an advanced stage of pregnancy, so your mobility is limited and you feel sluggish," Linda said, stroking her daughter's head. "But having an improved appetite means that the baby needs it."

Lina was just about to reach for the oranges when Lena walked over with a glass of orange juice. Wherever Lina was now, Lena would be around her as long as Zuko was not with her. She had sensed Lina's craving and squeezed fresh juice for her while she was sleeping.

Lina shot her a grateful look and looked at Linda. She felt a surge of happiness.

The three of them sat together, chatting and laughing, truly resembling a mother and her daughters.

It was then Evelyn rushed in with an anxious expression and called for Linda, "Madam..."

"What's the matter?"

"Madam, Ms. Renee... She's here!"

Linda straightened up while Lina and Lena were surprised. Evelyn went to the living room door and activated the surveillance system. They could see from the screen as Renee stood at the entrance of the Thompsons' mansion, accompanied by a group of people.

"Are those reporters?" Lina gasped. "She actually brought reporters!"

"Pammy, Aunt Linda, stay here." Lena's expression was cold. "I'll take care of her!"

"That's fine." Evelyn held Lena back. "Ian has sent his men. Those reporters wouldn't dare to come in!"

"But is Renee going to camp here with those reporters every day?" Lena frowned. "What exactly does she want?"

Linda took a deep breath, her gaze now displeased.

"Lena, watch over Lina and make sure she doesn't get too agitated. At this stage of her pregnancy, she can't afford emotional fluctuations," Linda instructed and turned to Evelyn. "Where's Nicholas?" "He went to the Hamertons early in the morning-had a fishing appointment with Mr. Zephyr."

"Ask him to hurry back. Fishing at this moment?!" Linda's presence was intimidating as she put on her coat and headed out with a determined stride. "I'll personally go ask Renee what she's up to!"

Chapter 1444

Chapter 1444

When Renee saw Linda coming to the door, she initially appeared flustered but soon wore a smug smile.

Linda remained composed. The maroon shawl on her accentuated her grace, and she looked authoritative just standing there. She looked at Renee quietly, reminding herself not to repeat the story of the farmer and the snake.

Renee spoke softly. "Aunt Linda, how have you been lately?"

"You still think of me as your aunt?" Linda glanced behind Renee, and the reporters all lowered their cameras and stood quietly, forced to lower themselves in Mrs. Thompson's presence. "You brought so many people to see me?"

"They're all seasoned journalists in this field." Renee smiled. "I invited them. I want them to witness something with me today."

Linda's expression darkened. She recognized a few faces among the reporters, the ones who always fueled controversies whenever celebrities were involved in scandals. "Witness?" Linda sneered. "Witness the bad deeds you've done? Witness how you stole the Thompson Group's client information and spread rumors about my husband?" Renee's face fell slightly, and she involuntarily took a step back.

Linda sighed, still clinging to a glimmer of hope as she tried to persuade Renee. "People's hearts are inherently good. Have you forgotten how your uncle and I treated you before?

"I always considered you as my daughter." Linda added, her tone filled with sadness, "I don't think we ever mistreated you. But Renee, why have you turned out like this? People's hearts are made of flesh and blood. Have you forgotten all the good things we did for you?"

Renee stood stiffly in place, her fists clenched tightly.

"Regardless, I hope you can find your way back. Actually, we all love you, including Lena..."

"Don't mention her to me!" Renee screamed uncontrollably once the name was brought up.

Behind her, the reporters exchanged glances and discreetly prepared their cameras and recording devices.

"She caused my mother's death... She didn't just harm my mother but also caused Toph to break up with me! It's all because of her!"

"Renee, what nonsense are you spewing?"

"If it weren't for her, I would be happy now!" Renee shook all over, her face turning pale. After a while, she smiled strangely. "Aunt Linda, you probably still don't know who she is, right? Those eerie eyes of hers always staring at others, have you ever seen any secrets in them?"

Linda glared sternly at her with a repulsive expression.

Just when Renee was about to take a step forward, the Thompson bodyguards firmly blocked her way.

"Aunt Linda, don't let her deceive you!"

"I don't want to hear you anymore!" Linda sternly rebuked. "Renee, you truly live up to being Melvin's daughter. You have absolutely no empathy! I must have been blind to have let your uncle give you shares in the company!"

"Didn't he take them back?" Renee's gaze gradually changed. "The shares he took back will probably end up in the hands of that wretched Lena!"

Linda did not want to say more. She turned to enter the house only to hear Renee shout from behind.

"Do you know why? Because she's Uncle Nicholas' illegitimate child!"

Linda froze as if rooted to the spot and feeling a tremendous weight upon her. She turned around slowly and looked at Renee in disbelief.

At that point, the reporters were already prepared to capture this major news.

Lina and Lena had just come out as well. Lena had wide eyes, filled with shock and anger. When she turned and met Lina's doubtful gaze, something seemed to collapse within her. "Pammy, I..."

"W-What's going on?" Lina's voice trembled as she felt a sudden pain somewhere, causing beads of sweat to form on her forehead. "Lenny, you... You already knew? Is that why you approached me?" "Yes, she knew a long time ago!"

Chapter 1445

Chapter 1445

Renee's malicious voice echoed at an opportune moment.

"She knew everything long ago, and it's all written in her diary! Aunt Linda, Lina, the real liar here is her! She has ulterior motives for getting close to the Thompsons!" Lena yelled, "Stop it!"

Renee laughed heartily. "What's wrong? Feeling guilty now? Hahaha! Just like that phrase you once said, thief crying thief-I'm returning these exact words to you!" "Renee Thompson!

"You are the thief, and your mother is one too! She even seduced my uncle!"

"Shut your mouth!" Lena lost her composure. She rushed forward to hit Renee but was held back tightly by Lina.

"Lina, do you know who her mother is?" Renee continued to add fuel to the fire. "Her mother is Krystal, the human trafficker who almost sold us off!"

"Shut up!" Lena screamed, tears streaming down her face.

Anger, panic, shame, and various emotions mingled together in her heart, reaching their climax like a volcano on the verge of eruption.

Lina and Linda were both stunned, but Lina snapped out of it first and rushed forward to support Linda.

"Mom..."

Linda trembled and struggled to catch her breath as if her heart had been through a tormenting ordeal. A sharp pain made each breath a challenge.

Yet, she managed to glean a fragment of clarity from her chaotic thoughts. Lena, younger than Lina, was apparently Nicholas' child. This implied that he might have been with another woman after their marriage.

Setting aside the impossibility of such an act by Nicholas, Krystal had connections to the criminal world, and Nicholas had left that life behind before marrying Linda. How could he have possibly been romantically involved with another woman, let alone fathered a child with her?

"No..." Linda's voice trembled. "No..."

"Mom, don't be like this," Lina said worriedly. "Let me help you back to your room first."

"No need." Linda's voice was very soft but determined. She glanced at Lina with a smile. "Pammy, I wasn't upset by her words. On the contrary... I don't believe a word she's saying!"

When the Thompsons' staff rushed to the Hamertons', Nicholas and Zephyr were knee-deep in the water catching fish.

Zuko and Chris watched from the shore and exchanged a wry smile.

"Fishing turned into catching fish. These old men know how to have fun!"

"Hush!" Zuko warned him hastily.

Chris chuckled. Just then, the butler arrived in a panic.

"Sir... something happened! You need to return home quickly!"

"What happened?" Chris stopped him. "Which sir is it? Be clear!"

"It's the Thompsons!" The butler panted. "Someone from the Thompsons came s-saying that Ms. Renee led reporters to the front gate and said some outrageous things. She made Madam so angry she fainted on the spot!"

"What?!" Zuko and Chris shouted simultaneously, alerting the two old men in the water.

"What happened to Linda?" Nicholas rushed up, not even bothering to put on his shoes. "Hurry... Zuko, take me back!"

Chapter 1446

Chapter 1446

Zephyr nagged that he wanted to go along, and called for Cordelia as well.

As the group hastily got into the car, the butler awkwardly explained, "Sir, Madam, Mrs. Thompson did not faint, but she said she could handle it herself... Heh, I don't know who relayed the message to this point..."

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

However, Cordelia still frowned. "Linda is strong, but it's still a problem that Renee kicks up a fuss at the doorstep! Besides, Pammy is pregnant. She can't take this kind of commotion!"

"Right!" Zuko had already instructed the driver to start the car. He could not wait to go back to protect his wife.

"Let's all go together," Cordelia decided. "Zuko, didn't you have people following Renee all along?"

"Yes," Zuko replied indifferently. "The people I sent reported she's been actively contacting reporters recently. But I didn't expect her to bring them over today."

"What is it for?"

Zuko remained silent and glanced at Chris.

Chris had the same cold expression.

Given the current situation, Zuko had no choice but to tell the truth. "Renee somehow read Lena's diary, which states that... she's dad's... illegitimate daughter." The car fell silent.

Zephyr and Cordelia stared at Nicholas, who was frantically at a loss for words.

"I swear on my conscience!" Nicholas yelled, "If I've had any other women in my life besides Linda, then may I be struck by lightning and never have a good life!" Zephyr and Cordelia still stared at him without saying a word.

Nicholas was anxious and grabbed Zephyr, explaining desperately, "You know about my... I can't possibly have slept with another woman when I'm sober. When I'm drunk, I... I can't perform!"

"Pft!"

Zuko turned his face to the window, trying hard to hold back his laughter.

Zephyr pushed Nicholas away with disdain, and Cordelia could not help but laugh.

Only Chris remained serious, sighing softly. He looked at his phone, where the DNA test result with a 0% match was stored. It was supposed to be his lifelong secret.

The reporters were still gathered at the entrance when they arrived at the Thompsons'.

Zuko immediately noticed Renee's triumphant look. He instructed the driver to sound the horn loudly, and the reporters split into two sides, clearing a path for them to drive through the gate. Nicholas got out of the car and rushed to Linda, tightly embracing her. Just like when they were young, he would make sure anyone who made his woman unhappy had an unhappy life! Zephyr and Cordelia went over as well. Zuko held Lina's hand. The warmth of his palm provided her with enough comfort.

Chris stood by Lena's side, his heart ached at the sight of her reddened eyes. He gently hugged her shoulders, telling her not to be afraid and that he was there with his gaze. Renee bit her lip.

A sense of desolation suddenly swept over her. In the past, Toph would have definitely stood by her side in such a situation. However, the thought only flashed through her mind. What she felt instantly turned into endless hatred.

"Heh, are you all here to support that little bitch? A love child can wield quite some power, huh!"

"What nonsense are you talking about?" Nicholas roared. "Lenny is not my illegitimate daughter! I've never done anything to wrong Linda! Don't blame me for the consequences if you dare to talk nonsense again!"

"Uncle Nicholas, you must be turning senile." Renee stared into his eyes. "Don't you know who her mother is? It's Krystal, the woman you saved! You know best what you did back then!"

"Renee!" Lina could not help but speak up. "Madame Krys saved our lives. How can you say such things about her?!"

Chapter 1447

Chapter 1447

"She saved you!" Renee's mind was clouded by hatred. "Back then, those people wanted to kidnap you! I was the one who got involved because of you!"

"You..."

"Krystal saved you out of consideration for your dad! Saving her old lover's child, she's really noble, huh?"

Lina bent over, clutching her stomach, which was throbbing in discomfort.

"But don't you forget who it was who wanted to kidnap me back then!" Lina bit down hard on each word. She had not wanted to say these heartless words-they were like sharp blades that would leave others wounded. She did not want to fall out with Renee as she still had a last bit of bottom line.

But she now understood that Renee was not worth it.

Toph's decision to break up with her was correct. There was no need for sympathy when dealing with a venomous snake.

"It was Melvin who wanted to kidnap me back then! It was Melvin who separated me from my parents for 20 years!

"Renee, I always treated you as a younger sister and felt sorry for you for losing your mother... I also thought that we could be sisters for the rest of our lives. But now I understand that it was all my wishful thinking!"

"You..." Renee's lips trembled. "You don't hate that bitch, and you hate me instead?"

"I don't hate you," Lina said with a bitter smile. "Hating someone is too exhausting, and you're not worth my time. I still have to live my life, and I just hope you won't be a part of it in the future!" Renee stumbled back and happened to bump into a reporter's camera.

She was startled and heard the reporters behind her discussing eagerly. She had originally intended to bring them there to reveal Lena's identity as an illegitimate daughter, but all of them were standing by Lena's side!

"Overall, this wealthy family drama is quite entertaining!"

"Yeah, the legitimate and illegitimate daughters teaming up against an outsider is quite rare!"

"If it weren't for Melvin, Nicholas wouldn't have suffered so much, not seeing his daughter for more than 20 years..."

Renee covered her ears, feeling choked up. Her tears suddenly surged, but she forcefully held them back. "Alright, I think the show's over. Let's go!"

Just as the reporters were about to leave, a voice suddenly echoed. "Please stay put! I have something else to say."

They turned to look at the source of the voice.

It was Chris, standing there with a determined expression. He took a deep breath and clenched his fists, knowing that what he was going to say would hurt Lena. If he did not say it, however, this matter would never be resolved!

He did not want Lena to be labeled an illegitimate daughter, especially when she was never one!

Zuko looked worriedly at Chris and Lena, then squeezed Lina's shoulder.

"What's happened?" Lina had a bad premonition. "What is Chris going to say?"

"Let's wait and see," Zuko whispered. "Believe in Chris, honey. He will handle everything well."

Lina looked at Chris with a mixture of trust and doubt.

Standing in the crowd, Chris raised his phone to show everyone the DNA test result and spoke clearly. "I believe you've all seen it... This is the DNA test report of Mr. Nicholas Thompson and Ms. Lena Harding. The report shows they are not biologically related, with a zero percent likelihood of a blood relationship!"

The reporters erupted into a buzz of discussion, and the rest were left in shock.

As for Lena, her mind went blank. She stared at Chris in astonishment, unable to utter a word.

Chapter 1448

Chapter 1448

"Chris, you..." Lena asked him in a murmur, "What are you saying?"

Chris' heart clenched, but his words could not be taken back. He did not regret revealing the truth-he was just afraid of seeing the disappointment in Lena's eyes.

That look was as if her unwavering beliefs had collapsed, and the light she had always trusted had suddenly gone out. She had thought she was not alone in this world, but it was all a joke now. "Lenny..." Chris licked his dry lips. "I'm sorry, I..."

Under Lena's gaze, he could not even say a complete sentence.

Lena's ears were buzzing. When Renee had exposed her as Nicholas' illegitimate daughter earlier, she had been angry and afraid-angry that Renee had revealed her secret and afraid that she would lose Lina and Nicholas.

Now, Chris was saying that she was not from the Thompsons.

She felt hopeless. It was like stepping into an abyss. There was nothing left in her world to support her.

Her legs gave way, and she collapsed.

"Lenny!" Chris panicked and reached out to catch her.

Lena went limp as she curled up in his arms as if she had been drained of all her strength. Her eyes lost focus, and she closed them weakly with a flutter of eyelids.

Lena felt like she was walking on an endless road. She was all alone on this journey, facing venomous creatures and wild beasts, sharp stones cutting her feet, scorching sun and freezing cold. Everything she encountered, she faced alone.

She thought her heart had become hardened and could withstand anything, but when she saw their faces one by one-Lina, Chris, Nicholas, Linda, Cordelia, Zephyr, Zuko, and Toph... her heart softened. She rushed toward them eagerly, but these people instantly disappeared when she got close.

Lena shouted, waving her arms, tears streaming down her face.

Lina stayed by her side, wiping the sweat from her forehead, and looked worriedly at the doctor. "How long will it take for her to wake up?"

"The reason she fainted suddenly might be due to excessive mental stress," the doctor said. "Let her rest, and she will recover soon."

Zuko's hand rested on Lina's shoulder, gently squeezing it.

"It'll be okay," he said softly. "Lena is a strong person. She will get through this."

Chris sat on the side, watching Lena's pale face with an aching heart. She only wanted a family...

He covered his face and took a deep breath. He could give her that family, but the family he could provide was different from the one she wanted.

As the doctor had said, Lena recovered quickly. However, it seemed like her consciousness was still stuck on the day her true identity was revealed. She became less talkative and less inclined to smile. She had always been quiet, to begin with, so now she was even more withdrawn.

Most of the day, she sat quietly in a corner by the window, staring outside without really seeing anything.

She still responded to Chris' careful care, but the feeling of it had changed. She continued to cook and make soup in the kitchen, still serving him food, but her movements were mechanical as if someone had programmed her to do these things.

When Chris suggested getting everyone together, she did not say anything, but her eyes showed her refusal.

Lena did not know how to face Lina anymore.

One night, she hid in her room and quietly burned her diary. It seemed that she had been deluding herself. How could she deserve to be a daughter of the Thompsons?

After a few days, she packed a simple bag and left Centrolis on a moonlit night.

She left behind a short message, saying she had gone to teach in a mountainous area and that her return date was uncertain.

When Lina saw the letter, she cried and leaned against Zuko's shoulder.

On the other hand, Chris remained calmer than anyone else.

Lena's choice was within his expectations. He understood her. She was slow to warm up and not easily adaptable to sudden changes.

Lina sent messages to Lena almost every day, but Lena did not reply.

"Why is she ignoring me?!" Lina lamented, her eyes red from frustration. "She was never like this before... She always considered me her elder sister, and I always thought of her as my younger sister, blood or not!"

Zuko did not know how to comfort her and took her to Chris' house.

Chris' response was that Lena had never texted or called him either.

"But I know she isn't really abandoning us." He smiled confidently.

It was actually very easy for him to find Lena based on his abilities, but he did not track her down. He knew her. She wanted to be alone, to find some peace. She just needed some time to heal.

He would let her heal alone. Some people always needed companionship, while others were better off alone. What he needed to do was respect all of her choices.

If he loved her, he should not disturb her.

"Pammy, don't worry," Chris said with a gentle smile. "Lenny still has us in her heart. She just doesn't know how to express it. Give her some time, and she'll come back."

Despite that, Lena was still biased toward Chris.

Every day, he would receive a silent call.

The call had no caller ID or displayed location and came every day at exactly 4:00 p.m. Once answered, there would be no voice on the other end, but Chris could hear faint breathing. He could feel her presence even though they were thousands of kilometers apart.

He knew it was her.

The first time he received the call, he answered with a racing heart and cautiously asked, "Lenny, is that you?"

There was no response.

"Lenny, don't hang up!" Chris' voice was slightly hoarse. He had so much he wanted to say, but he did not know where to start.

"Lenny, I... I miss you."

The other end remained silent, but there was a slight sound like a finger tapping the microphone.

Chris teared up, and he smiled with relief.

Later, he would receive Lena's silent calls every day.

She would not hang up and listen to him recount his day, just like how she used to write in her diary. She had written the diary to talk to her mother, but she no longer had it. Instead, Chris became her storyteller.

Chapter 1449

Chapter 1449

"Lenny, are you adjusting well over there? Do you know that I've been to that mountainous region?"

There was no response from the other end, but Chris continued to talk.

"Haha, you don't believe me? I really have been there! Back when I was still in the military, I assisted a special police unit in that area to eliminate a criminal gang. Hehe... I even earned some merits! So, how about it? Do you think your man is impressive?

"I knew it. You must think I'm impressive!

"By the way, Lenny, Renee... has been prosecuted. Since her last uproar at the Thompsons', Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda have not planned to let her off. She's now receiving the punishment she deserves. "Lenny, look, they all love you very much... and Pammy sends you messages daily. Haven't you seen them?

"Oh, I know, the signal in the mountains is not great, and you can't receive messages sometimes, right?"

Lena giggled on the other end. That was true-the signal was not very good in the mountains, so she had stopped using her phone. Every day at this time, she would stand in a very old public telephone booth, insert two coins, and listen to Chris' voice.

"Lenny, I..." Chris seemed to have a lot to say today. "I've always wanted to say, I'm sorry."

Lena was taken aback, her heart pounding.

"I know you've always yearned for the warmth of a family. And I... I shattered that dream. I'm sorry."

Lena's lips moved, but no sound came out. Tears streamed down her face.

He understood all of her thoughts. Did he also know that the "family" she yearned for included him?

"Lenny, Pammy misses you a lot," Chris said softly. "She said that whether you have a blood relationship or not, you'll always be her sister."

Lena nodded with a smile while tears flowed down her face. No matter what, Lina would always be her sister, and she would never abandon her sister.

"Pammy will be giving birth in three more months." Chris smiled. "It's said to be a girl. Won't you come back to see the little princess?"

Three months later...

The due date for labor was approaching, and Lina became increasingly restless. A few days ago, she did not feel well, so she checked into the hospital early for childbirth. The doctor said the baby's arrival would be any day now, so they needed to be prepared.

Zuko was so nervous he did not dare to sleep and stayed by Lina's bedside every day.

Cordelia smiled and pushed Zuko out, urging him to get some rest in the nearby room.

"You won't get much sleep when the baby's here!" Cordelia teased. "Now that she's not here yet, conserve your energy for when she arrives. You'll be taking care of her day and night!" "But..."

"Pammy has me and Linda to take care of her. Now, go and get some sleep!"

Zuko scratched his head apologetically. "Mom... was I so fussy that I kept you up when I was born too?"

A loud cough sounded. "Of course!"

No matter how old Zuko was, that voice would always carry a sense of intimidation by blood.

He turned to meet Zephyr's gaze and chuckled fawningly after a pause. "Dad..."

"You rascal, when you were just born, all you did was cry and feed. As you grew up, you kept your mom awake for years. She couldn't get a full night's sleep!"

Nicholas, who was nearby, shot Zephyr a disdainful look.

"It seems... your house had plenty of servants and nannies back then. It wasn't as difficult as you're making it sound," he said.

Zephyr glared at him. "Don't speak unless spoken to, got it?"

Everyone burst into laughter.

Lina had been somewhat irritable just a while ago, but her mood had brightened considerably now. She glanced at her phone-still no messages from Lena. She sighed softly.

Chapter 1450

Chapter 1450

It was then she felt a warm rush surge, and there was a sensation... like she was wetting herself!

"Ah!" Lina screamed in fright. "Mom! Mom!"

Cordelia and Linda quickly turned around. "What is it?"

Lina pointed downward.

Linda lifted the blanket and saw that a puddle of water had formed beneath her.

"Your water broke!" Linda pressed the call button.

Doctors and nurses rushed in, examined Lina, and then wheeled her into the delivery room.

For the next while, every minute and second felt like agony for Zuko. He tried several times to peek through the delivery room door to see what was happening inside, but he could not see anything. The delivery room door had strong soundproofing, so he could not hear any sounds from inside. But he knew Lina must be in pain!

He sat on a chair, clutching his hands together and his eyes reddening. He wished he could bear the pain for her.

"Don't worry," Cordelia comforted. "I heard they have epidurals for childbirth nowadays. I've already arranged for the doctor to administer it. The obstetricians inside are friends of Zennie and very experienced. Pammy and the baby will be fine."

"But it's been so long!" Zuko was restless as he grabbed his hair.

Cordelia chuckled. "First pregnancies are usually slow. Wait until you have more children. They'll be born faster, one after the other!"

As soon as she finished speaking, the automatic door of the delivery room opened.

Zuko took a quick step forward. "How's my wife?"

A few nurses nearby paused before they chuckled. Men outside the delivery room would typically ask about the baby upon seeing the doctor. It was rare for someone to inquire about his wife first.

The doctor congratulated him with a smile. "Mr. Hamerton, don't worry. Everything is fine. Your wife has given birth to a beautiful baby girl. Both mother and daughter are safe!"

Lina lay weakly on the bed. Despite the pain relief, her incision still felt like it was burning, and she did not dare to move.

The little baby next to her was sleeping peacefully. She smiled and wanted to touch her but was stopped by a gentle hand.

"Honey..." Zuko's voice choked. "You've been through so much."

Lina smiled and looked at him. His hair was a bit disheveled, his eyes were red, and he did not look as spirited as usual. He even seemed a bit beat up.

It was a stark contrast to the usually poised young count he was.

She asked softly, "Honey, why did I having a baby make you look like this?"

They both laughed after that. Lina did not dare to laugh too hard due to the incision. Zuko wanted to take a look, but she stopped him, knowing the scar must look awful.

She had faced complications during the natural birth process. Her amniotic fluid had almost drained, and there was the risk of the baby's umbilical cord wrapped around her neck. The doctors had to make a quick decision and perform a C-section.

Zuko felt deeply apologetic. He would have insisted on a C-section from the beginning if he had known earlier, sparing her the ordeal.

"Silly." Lina caressed his face. "All sorts of unexpected things can happen during childbirth. You can't predict them in advance. I'm content as long as the baby's safe." "Honey..."

Lina hesitated momentarily and asked, "By the way, is there still no news from Lenny?"