Ch. 1471..1480

Chapter 1471

Chapter 1471

A hint of disappointment flashed across Lena's eyes. Lina held her hand.

Lena did not want to worry her, so she forced a smile and said, "She... is probably Mrs. Hamerton's prospective daughter-in-law, right? She seems to fit the bill. Beautiful, from a good family, and they grew up together, so they know each other well."

"What nonsense are you talking about!?" Lina frowned. "Marriage is your and Chris' business. What does it have to do with Bitchy Bianca?"

"Bitchy Bianca?"

"Uh..." Lina stuck out her tongue, laughing in embarrassment.

Just as Lena fiercely protected Lina, the latter was equally protective of Lena. Seeing someone threatening Lena's position, she naturally did not like that person, regardless of whether they were Chris' childhood friend or had connections!

"Anyway, I won't allow anyone to harm you!" Lina squeezed Lena's hand firmly. "Including Chris!"

"Lina..."

"Let's watch and see for now." Lina chuckled. "If Bitchy Bianca behaves herself, that's fine. But if she dares to misbehave in my house, watch how I handle her!"

A maid knocked on the door, informing them that the meal was ready.

Lina led Lena to the dining room, where everyone was getting ready to sit down.

It seemed like Bianca and Chris were enjoying their conversation.

However, just as Bianca was about to sit next to Chris, Lena suddenly felt being pulled away by some force. When she came back to her senses, she realized that Fleur had firmly pushed her into the seat next to Chris.

"Dilly dallying even just to eat!" Fleur grunted. "There won't be any seats left for you if you're late!"

Lena was slightly stunned.

Equally surprised was Bianca.

Zuko and Lina exchanged a knowing smile and sat down as if nothing had happened.

Bianca stood awkwardly in place.

Fleur then spoke again. "Bianca, go sit over there!"

"Huh?" Bianca looked around. It was a round table, and the only available seat was the one between Lena and Lina.

It was neither next to Chris nor close to Fleur. It was genuinely a guest's seat.

Bianca was upset but did not want to make a scene in someone else's home. She forced a smile and said, "Okay, whatever you say, Aunt Fleur! Sitting here is great, too. I like sitting next to Pamela!" Fleur chuckled. "Oh? You don't like sitting next to your sister-in-law?"

Now, everyone was stunned before they smiled cryptically.

Bianca's expression changed slightly. "I like it. Of course I like it!"

"Your sister-in-law doesn't talk much but has a good heart!" Fleur pursed her lips. "Bianca, you're back for good this time, right? When you have time, let your sister-in-law take you around. You haven't been in Centrolis for many years, and it has greatly changed!"

"Yeah, okay..." Bianca took a deep breath. She raised her glass to thank Lena in advance, mumbling the word 'sister-in-law' and making it almost indistinguishable.

Lena smiled politely and was about to raise her glass, but Chris gently took it away.

"It's a bit early for thanks now." Chris smiled. "Lenny and I are going to the mountainous area. We'll probably be back in about a week. Ask Lenny to take you around by then, and you can thank her after!" "You're going to the mountainous area?" Bianca widened her eyes. "For what?"

"Good deeds, of course!" Lina interjected. "Bianca, don't just talk. Try the dishes our chef prepared!"

Chapter 1472

Chapter 1472

Bianca outwardly complied, but a hint of discontent lingered in her eyes. Throughout the meal, her gaze kept drifting toward Chris. When Fleur spoke, Bianca would actively join in, steering the conversation toward their shared childhood memories.

In their youth, she frequented Fleur's home, adoring the swing in her backyard and sharing a bed with Chris.

Lena listened quietly, her calm facade masking the fact the delicious food lacked flavor to her.

"Oh, Chris..." Bianca gazed at him innocently. "Could you take me to the mountains? I'm seeking inspiration for a photo series featuring the mountains."

Chris' eyes darkened, and he remained silent, subtly holding Lena's hand under the table.

Bianca pouted. "Why aren't you responding?"

"Aren't you hungry?" Fleur tapped the table gently. "Let's eat."

"Aunt Fleur, I-"

"I don't think you should join them," Fleur gracefully adjusted her hair. "They have important matters to attend to. What would you gain by tagging along?"

"Aunt Fleur!" Bianca protested, attempting to appear charming. "Chris and I used to travel all the time when we were kids!"

"When you were kids," Fleur emphasized. "But you've grown up. Your mind shouldn't dwell in the past."

A strange atmosphere settled over the dining table.

Lina and Zuko exchanged a relieved glance. With such a supportive mother-in-law, what could they worry about?

Lena was surprised. She hadn't expected Fleur to take her side at a time like this.

"What's wrong? Why is everyone staring at me?" Fleur widened her eyes. "Is there something on my face?" "Oh, yes!" Zuko called the butler over. "I remember Aunt Fleur loves grilled salmon. Please let the kitchen know." The butler nodded and departed.

Bianca sensed Fleur's unhappiness and bit her lip. Despite her frustration, she refrained from showing it.

Leaning closer to Fleur, she changed the topic. "Aunt Fleur, your seafood casserole looks delicious..."

"Concentrate on your own meal!" Fleur snapped, placing her cutlery firmly on the table. "Don't eye others' plates."

Bianca flinched.

Fleur was usually gentle and amiable, but only as long as her boundaries were respected.

Bianca couldn't believe Fleur, who had always been affectionate toward her, would now include Lena in those boundaries. Taking advantage of the moment, Lina instructed the butler to serve Bianca some grilled salmon.

Zuko engaged in lively conversation with Fleur, and the atmosphere gradually returned to normal. Bianca forced a smile, but a hint of sadness still lingered in her eyes when she glanced at Lena.

Chris had originally arranged for a private plane, but Lena wanted to savor the scenery along the way.

"Could we take the train instead?" she suggested tentatively.

Chris smiled. "Why opt for the train when we have a private plane?"

"The last time I traveled this route, I was too upset to appreciate the journey or the scenery." Lena sat beside him, resting her head on his shoulder. "This time, I'm in a different mood." "Because I'm with you?"

Lena giggled and playfully pinched his cheek.

"I've taken this route with the army before," Chris remarked while checking the train tickets. "Back then, we didn't take the train. We traveled by military bus. It was a bumpy ride, but the scenery was truly stunning."

Lena blinked. "So, is that a yes? Besides, Mr. Chriss mentioned he'd reimburse our travel expenses."

Chris smiled wryly. "I can still afford train tickets!"

Chapter 1473

Chapter 1473

Lena and Chris exchanged smiles, enjoying their peaceful time together.

"Well, how about this?" Chris said, "We take the train there, then the private plane can pick us up, and we can bring the kids along, too. That way, they won't have to be tired." "Sounds good!"

While discussing their plans, Chris booked train tickets for himself and Lena. They opted for regular coach seats, wanting to enjoy the trip as a typical couple without any prior planning.

When the day arrived, they reached the train station with the sun shining brightly. However, their attention was suddenly captured by a voice from the bustling crowd calling out, "Chris!" Lena froze as she was about to step onto the train. Chris was similarly surprised.

Bianca approached them with bags of luggage, her smile radiating warmth.

"Chris, what a surprise! Are you two also taking this train?"

"Yes..." Chris looked puzzled. "How did you know..."

"I mentioned I wanted to explore the mountainous area for inspiration!"

Lena noticed Bianca had a camera hanging around her neck.

Bianca casually tossed a backpack to Chris. "Can you help me with this? It's quite heavy!"

Lena's expression subtly changed, but she remained silent and boarded the train.

Chris and Lena had adjoining seats, while Bianca sat alone further back.

Bianca asked, "Chris, how long is this train ride?"

"Isn't it on the ticket?" Chris placed Bianca's bag on her seat and replied, "It's a six-hour journey."

"Six hours!" Bianca exclaimed, drawing the attention of other passengers.

Chris frowned and returned to his seat beside Lena without a word.

"Chris!" Bianca pouted. "I've never been on such a long train ride! And I'm alone here... It feels quite lonely!"

Lena smirked and glanced at Chris with an enigmatic look.

Bianca spoke again. "Chris, the seat next to me is vacant! But... I'm not used to sitting next to strangers. Can I switch seats with Lena?" She smiled at Lena. "Your seat is by the window, and I'd love to enjoy the view. Can we swap?"

Chris said, "Bianca, if you switch with Lena, aren't you asking her to sit beside a stranger?"

"So what? She's not a train novice." Bianca pouted again. "My sister-in-law isn't that fussy, right? Plus, I'm really not comfortable..."

Lena clenched her hands inside her coat pocket, suppressing her anger with restraint.

Suddenly, a large hand gently rested on her shoulder. Before she could react, she was pulled up into an embrace.

"Alright, let's swap," Chris said, looking reassuringly at Lena.

Bianca was delighted, but she then saw Chris signaling to the train attendant. "This young lady isn't comfortable sitting next to a stranger. We'd like to give up our seats for her."

"Chris?" Bianca was confused.

"Are there any vacant seats in the business class?" Chris asked.

The train attendant nodded politely.

"We'll upgrade to business class then," Chris said with a smile, looking at Lena. "For a six-hour journey, my wife will be more comfortable lying down."

Chapter 1474

Chapter 1474

Lena blushed and smiled as she followed Chris into the business class section.

Meanwhile, Bianca remained in her spot. Before she could even utter "Chris", the train attendant politely intercepted her. "Miss, these two seats are yours now. Please have a seat!" "You..." Bianca blankly glared at her.

The train attendant bowed and asked with a smile, "Is there anything else I can assist you with?"

Bianca rolled her eyes repeatedly in frustration but ultimately sat down and turned to look out of the window.

This was Lena's first time in a business class section. She had never known that train carriages could be this spacious. Business class seats not only allowed her to sit comfortably, but she could also recline.

"How is it?" Chris asked with a smile.

It was not that Lena did not mind Bianca's presence. Her jealousy dissipated once she looked at Chris' face. Despite that, she still teased him with Bianca's tone. "Not bad at all, Chris!" Chris was rendered speechless and felt beads of sweat forming on his nose.

"What's wrong, Chris?" Lena asked innocently, still with Bianca's tone, taking out a tissue and wiping his sweat. "Why are you so flustered? Did you do something wrong?"

Chris could not find the words to respond. He knew she was joking, so he held her hand.

"I'm not flustered," he said. "I just suddenly smelled something like jealousy."

Lena chuckled and tried to push him away, but he pulled her into his embrace. They lost their balance and fell onto the spacious seat together.

Lena's heart raced, and she avoided his gaze, whispering, "Don't make a scene."

Although Chris was itching for some affection, he had a sense of propriety and held back. He asked for a blanket, gently covering Lena, and said, "We still have a long way to our destination. Get some rest." "Okay." Lena nodded. "But... what about her?"

Chris pinched her nose. "You're not suspecting I'll go to her after you fall asleep, are you?"

Lena giggled. She was not that petty. Her suspicion was about something else.

She asked, "Don't you think it's odd? How did she know we were taking this train? I mean, she's rich, right? So, even if she's going to the mountains for inspiration, wouldn't she prefer a different way to travel?" "True." Chris pondered. Not many people knew about their trip. Fleur assumed they were taking a private jet, and Zuko and Lina had better things to do than to mention it to Bianca. That left only one person-Toph!

Chris gritted his teeth. 'Jackass Toph! I must ask Zuko to interrogate him!'

Toph came to Zuko's house with the newest toy to share it with his little niece. But when he walked in, he was met with an unusual sight.

Zuko and Lina sat on the sofa, smirking mysteriously.

Arya was in an armchair, looking helpless.

Toph's heart skipped a beat. He was direct but not foolish. He realized something. Thus, he smiled innocently and went to get Persephone from Lina. To his amazement, the four-month-old baby waved at him and cooed.

Chapter 1475

Chapter 1475

"Oh, why is little Sephy ignoring her Uncle Toph now?" Toph chuckled dryly. "Little princess, Uncle Toph will have to give you away in marriage one day!"

Zuko coughed and chuckled. "Hey, don't change the subject!"

Toph glanced at Arya, seeking her support.

Arya couldn't help but laugh and looked at Zuko and Lina. "Can we go easy on him?"

"In that case, he has to confess!" Lina raised her eyebrows. "Why did you tell Bianca about Chris and Lenny's travel plans? She's on the same train with them!" "I..." Toph awkwardly scratched his head.

The situation that day went like this-Bianca mentioned seeing his comic adaptation on a website and was eager to meet this talented comic artist. Gradually, he got carried away with the flattery, answering whatever she asked.

"I... I didn't think much at the time!" Toph said, embarrassed. "Besides, Chris and Lena are doing a good deed this time. What's there to hide? Plus, I wanted to honor our childhood friendship. We used to play together as kids... like with Arya!"

"What?" Lina's eyes widened. "How can you compare Bianca to Arya?"

"Pammy, you seem to really dislike Bianca."

"That's true. I can't stand her!" Lina played with Persephone in her arms.

"Toph, she's not like Arya," Lina said seriously. "Arya is open and honest, but Bianca's interest in Chris seems off."

"Maybe you're just too fond of Lena?" Toph grinned, not taking offense.

In his memory, Bianca had always been a clever and friendly girl, getting along well with the boys. She didn't seem conniving.

"Alright, can we move on from this for now?" Toph straightened up and smiled. Then, he took out invitations from his pocket and handed one to each of them ceremoniously.

Zuko and Lina were surprised.

Arya smiled and explained, "There will be a formal signing ceremony between my studio and Toph next month. You've got to be there!"

"Signing ceremony?"

"Yes, Toph has been working solo until now. Even though he sold the copyright, it's hard for him to go far without a team supporting him." Arya smiled gently, looking proudly at Toph. "How could I miss signing such a talented comic artist? I want to sign him before other studios find him!"

Lina smiled. "Arya, are you planning to stop drawing and focus on behind-the-scenes work from now on?"

"That would be great!" Toph said cheerfully, "I'll be at the front lines charging into battle while Arya guards our homefront. We're a perfect match!"

Arya's face turned red instantly, and she looked a bit embarrassed, lowering her gaze before quickly making an excuse about some studio preparations and leaving.

No one said anything, and Toph had a long thought. It wasn't until Arya was gone that he let out a low sigh and winced. "Bro, did I say something foolish just now?"

"Are you sure it was foolish?" Zuko patted his shoulder. "Words spoken subconsciously often reveal what's in your heart."

"But..." Toph was a little unsure.

His past relationship with Renee was over, and he had cleared space in his heart. However, he wasn't sure if Arya would fill that space willingly.

Moreover, his last relationship had been rather traumatic, and he was hesitant to think about what the next one would be like.

"Why are you just standing there?" Lina also approached and patted him. "Aren't you going to accompany Arya back to the studio? It's far from here, and she doesn't have a car. Who knows how long she'll have to walk!"

Chapter 1476

Chapter 1476

Toph dashed out but halted abruptly, his usual carefree grin replaced by a somewhat serious look.

Lina was puzzled. "What's the matter?"

Toph forced a smile and replied, "I... I don't think I'm going after all."

Lina asked, "Why?"

"Well, Arya knows how to get back, and we're not in the middle of nowhere. She can always call a taxi, and the Bayers won't let her travel alone. Even if she doesn't call a cab, there will be bodyguards to pick her up... I-I don't need to worry about her!"

Zuko caught the hint. He understood that Toph's past relationship with Renee had left him emotionally scarred, nearly preventing him from loving again.

However, life had to move forward. Toph couldn't spend his whole life dwelling in that shadow.

Toph avoided their gazes, saying, "Come on, give me the little princess. You two can go on your date or do whatever you want. Leave the baby to me. You can rest easy! Haha!"

He took Persephone from Lina's hands. The little one cooperated exceptionally well, not crying or fussing. She just looked at her uncle with big, cute eyes and her fingers in her mouth. Zuko softly sighed and shook his head.

Lina quietly asked him, "Do you think... he and Arya have a chance?"

"Let things unfold." Zuko smiled faintly. "Toph is currently focused on his career, and that's a good thing. He needs to learn to grow up."

In the evening, Lina received a message from Lena, letting her know she was safe. Lina couldn't help but smile.

"From the timestamp, it seems like she sent this yesterday," she said, looking at Zuko. "But I only received it today. It shows that the signal over there isn't very good." "Anyway, they won't be gone for long," Zuko commented as he tousled her hair. "Can't you even wait for a week?"

"That's true, I do miss Lenny when she's not around."

"Hmm?" Zuko turned to her, their foreheads touching, and brushed his nose against hers. He teased, "You're saying you miss someone else in front of your husband?" Lina giggled. "You're being silly."

"Sometimes, I envy the relationships between you women."

Lina nestled in his embrace, her fingers lightly tapping on his chest.

Zuko inhaled her scent. Considering she had just given birth, she had become even more plump. Since she was still breastfeeding, she had a faint trace of a milky scent...

He felt a stirring within him and hugged her tighter. It was one of those late, quiet moments at night. The desire between them seemed to awaken, starting to stir.

"Honey..." Zuko gently held her as they lay on the bed.

Lina understood his intentions. Her cheeks turned slightly red, but she couldn't deny she also missed him. Her hands slid onto his broad shoulders, and she gently kissed the corner of his lips. Encouraged, Zuko acted swiftly.

However, just as they were about to reach the most crucial moment, a loud cry suddenly echoed from the crib beside them.

Zuko froze, and Lina was also surprised. She immediately pushed Zuko, who was above her, and rushed to the crib to pick up Persephone, gently comforting her.

Zuko's slow movements revealed reluctance and helplessness. He took his time to sit up, retrieved his clothes from the floor, and sighed deeply.

"What's wrong with this little one again?" he asked with a wry smile.

Chapter 1477

Chapter 1477

Despite the complaints, Zuko couldn't bear the thought of their daughter sleeping in a separate room. It was his idea to bring the crib into their bedroom.

He gently approached, took their baby girl from Lina's arms, and began soothing her with tender words.

"Honey, you should go to sleep first. I'll hold her for a while," he said.

Lina's eyes glistened with tenderness.

Even before Persephone was born, Lina had read many posts about women's challenges after childbirth on different websites. Some described husbands who offered little help, acting like absent parents. Others talked about widow-style parenting, where women cared for their children and husbands, leaving themselves exhausted.

Zuko, however, was different.

Since Persephone's birth, he had been actively involved in everything, even though they had hired help for various tasks. He handled diaper changes, prepared bottles, washed them, and even took part in massages and skin-to-skin contact. Despite having caregivers, he remained hands-on.

As Persephone grew, he made time for her every day, even amid his busy work schedule. He carefully selected her tiny clothes and socks, showing more detail-oriented care than when signing contracts.

His devotion to Persephone didn't mean neglecting his wife. He became even more caring and attentive, ensuring Lina didn't have to wake up at night. Although the maid brought soups and beverages, he tasted them before letting her drink to ensure they suited her taste.

Sometimes, when Persephone cried at night, it was Zuko who would soothe and carry her around the room.

Lina watched him, determined yet fatigued, and felt a mix of heartache and happiness. She realized she had married the right person.

"Honey..." Lina's voice quivered slightly. "You go rest. I'll take her."

"Are you trying to take her away from me too?" Zuko teased with a gentle smile. "I don't get to see my precious during the day, so I cherish the moments we have together at night. Can you not be so cruel?" Lina laughed and playfully punched him.

Gradually, Persephone's cries subsided. After a yawn, she peacefully fell asleep again in Zuko's arms.

In the quiet room, Zuko approached the crib with care. Persephone was like a ticking time bomb now. Putting her down was a delicate task, requiring the right moment, angle, and force.

He adjusted his posture, ready to put her down when Lina's phone suddenly buzzed.

Persephone stretched her tiny hands and feet and smacked her lips a couple of times.

Quickly, Zuko patted her to keep her calm.

"Is it Lena again?" he asked with a wry smile. "Reply to her. Tell her that she's the culprit if I can't put down Sephy tonight!"

"No..." Lina's expression changed slightly.

Zuko paused. "What happened?"

Lina hesitated but handed her phone to him.

The message was from her assistant.

Renee was on a hunger strike in prison, showing a stubborn attitude, and insisting on seeing Lina. The prison had no choice but to contact Lina's assistant.

"She wants to commit suicide?" Zuko looked indifferent. "Hah, this isn't the first time she's playing this trick!"

"But if she wants to see me, there may be something important she wants to discuss, right?"

Zuko wondered. "If you want to go, I'll go with you. I'd like to see what tricks she can pull!"

Chapter 1478

Chapter 1478

At Centrolis Prison.

The tall building cast a somber shadow beneath the gray sky, and the surrounding barbed wire sent shivers down spines.

Lina frowned, her steps heavy as if each foot carried a thousand pounds.

"If you don't want to go, you don't have to," Zuko said and wrapped his arm around her, sensing her unease. "Dealing with someone like her isn't necessary..."

Lina glanced down, then replied softly, "Let's still go and see her. We've shared so many experiences, and those real memories can't be easily discarded. I'd rather believe Renee is ill than accept that she's gone bad."

Zuko's grip on her shoulder tightened, and he walked alongside her with determination.

The meeting place had a transparent partition. Lina saw the iron door open, revealing a haggard and cold face. Renee's eyes betrayed indifference, and she smiled mockingly.

Renee wore rough clothes, her once-long hair cut short to her ears. She sat across from them, looking like a lifeless puppet.

After a long silence, Lina took a deep breath and spoke softly. "Renee, I've brought you some items. After the guards check them, they'll be delivered to your side. They're consumables. If they're not enough, you can "

"They're, of course, not enough," Renee coldly interrupted. "Cuz, what's the point of bringing these things now?"

A tight feeling constricted Lina's chest.

Renee raised her cuffed hands, making them clank heavily.

"Do you enjoy that sound?" She smiled bitterly. "You've given me such wonderful gifts, and I'm truly grateful. How could I ask for more now?"

Zuko's voice grew stern, "Renee, there's no need for this hostility. Lina and I will leave if there's nothing important today. I wanted to stop her from coming, but she insisted because you're her cousin."

He warned, "If you keep speaking this way, I can take back the things she brought you. I can also assure you your time here won't be pleasant. Think about it."

Renee bit her lip. Zuko's sharp gaze felt like a cutting blade against her face. She looked down, tugging at her clothes, her resentment lingering.

Lately, she had been plagued by restless sleep, nightmares, palpitations, and dreams filled with memories of her time with Toph. Happiness had been fleeting, and she saw Kaitlyn leaping off the cliff in her dreams, shattered into pieces.

She often woke up screaming, her mouth bleeding from biting her gums.

If it weren't for Lina, she wouldn't have lost her mother.

Lina wouldn't have returned to the Thompsons if she had continued pretending to be Pamela.

Life was unjust. Good people never got what they deserved!

Now, Renee was trapped in this lightless place, all thanks to Lina and Lena.

"Renee?" Lina's voice snapped Renee out of her thoughts.

The sinister gleam in Renee's eyes startled Lina.

Renee's voice slightly quivered as she chuckled. "Lina, are you doing well these days? Your daughter... What's her name?"

Zuko stepped in, saying firmly, "That's none of your business."

"Zuko, don't be so hostile." Renee smiled. "After all, I almost became your sister-in-law."

Chapter 1479

Chapter 1479

Zuko's expression darkened.

"Lina, I asked you here today for one reason only," Renee said, looking at Lina intently. "You're a mother now. Whatever you do, please prioritize your daughter."

Lina frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Cuz, are you planning to keep Lena with you?"

Renee's eyes gave off a mocking gleam, unsettling Lina.

"I've been having nightmares lately... Remember when we were kidnapped and taken on that ship? We met Madame Krys there. "Remember her? She was a human trafficker! Haha!" Renee laughed oddly. "She had another identity-she was Lena's mother!" "Have you said enough?" Lina's face grew serious. "If you called me here just for this nonsense, I don't want to hear it!"

Lina stood to leave.

Behind her, Renee's voice turned hysterical and venomous. "You're guarding her like a treasure, but have you considered she's Krystal's daughter? She's the child of a human trafficker!" Lina halted, her back stiff as she turned around.

A prison guard moved to restrain Renee, but she fought back, her eyes slightly red.

"My father was Melvin, and I have his blood. I'm no saint!" Renee's voice was hoarse as she shouted, "But what about her? Her mother was a human trafficker, and she carries that blood too!" "Don't say I didn't warn you, Lina. You better watch out for your daughter! Who knows? She might already be in her sights! Hahaha!"

Lina's eyes widened, anxiety coursing through her. She clenched her fists, and her face grew paler by the second.

These were words no mother could bear to hear.

"This is madness!" Zuko snapped angrily, waving to get the guards' attention.

For some inexplicable reason, the two female guards couldn't pull Renee back behind the iron door. She continued to rant hysterically, "Lina, be cautious! You were taken away from your mother as a child. This nightmare might repeat with your daughter!

"If you keep that person around... Haha! You know the consequences! Your daughter might not be as lucky as you and escape a shipwreck!"

"Stop it! Just stop!" Lina covered her ears, trembling all over.

She turned and fled. The place felt dark and oppressive, enclosed by towering walls and fences, making breathing difficult.

Zuko followed. He helped her into the car and held her tightly. He gently stroked her back, and her trembling body filled him with sorrow.

"It's alright, don't be scared," he whispered, "Think of it as being nipped by a rabid dog. Don't pay attention to what she said."

With tears in her eyes, Lina nodded.

She suddenly recalled the tale of Sleeping Beauty. On her first birthday, the uninvited witch cursed her, foretelling she would prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an eternal slumber when she came of age.

Lina took a deep breath, attempting to soothe herself.

"It's okay, my love," Zuko reassured her, trying to console himself too. "We'll take great care of Sephy, and she'll always be with us."

In truth, he was scared as well. In the past, he had never believed in such things. But since having a daughter, a simple curse felt like a poisonous thorn in his heart, leaving him restless.

Chapter 1480

Chapter 1480

Bianca suffered during the few days in the mountainous area.

She had followed Chris and Lena all the way, but when they got off the train, it seemed like Chris had completely forgotten her existence.

When they boarded a bus to head into the mountains, she didn't have any change, so Chris kindly helped her buy a ticket. But his demeanor toward her was like she was a complete stranger, merely assisting out of goodwill.

Bianca tried to strike up conversations with him, but he brushed her aside, showering all his attention on Lena. Throughout the journey, Bianca gained nothing more than witnessing their affectionate interactions.

In the mountainous region, she made it her mission to show up wherever they went, even visiting the local school and volunteering to take photos of the children with her camera. But Chris' attitude toward her remained lukewarm. His gaze was solely on Lena.

Moreover, the signal was terrible in the mountains, making it difficult for Bianca to find someone to vent her frustrations. Meanwhile, the harsh living conditions made her extremely uncomfortable.

Chris and Lena stayed at the only local guesthouse in the area. The owner, Edward Delaney, was a kind-hearted middle-aged man who wasn't a local but was drawn to the place's natural beauty. Running the guesthouse was his way of expressing his love for it.

This guesthouse rarely received visitors throughout the year, but Edward diligently kept it clean daily. Now that three living souls had suddenly arrived, he was overjoyed.

He would occasionally brew a pot of tea and bring it out to the courtyard to chat with Chris and Lena. After getting to know them a bit, he smiled and asked, "I can tell you two are a couple, but what about that young lady?"

Chris evaded the question. "Oh, she's our neighbor's daughter."

"But it seems like she's here for you!"

Chris widened his eyes, exchanged a secretive glance with Edward, and then sneakily glanced at Lena.

Lena sipped her tea and smiled without uttering a word.

"Oh, I see," Edward grinned slyly. "it looks like unrequited love, doesn't it?"

"Uh..." Chris was embarrassed and hid his face behind his cup.

"Nevertheless, it's unsafe for a girl to wander the mountains constantly. Have you noticed that village on the other side of the mountain? There are so many single old men in that village! You'd better make sure no one snatches her away to become their wife!"

"That won't happen!" Chris laughed. "She's timid and won't venture that far."

Lena gazed toward the village on the other side of the mountain, her bright eyes filled with melancholy.

Sensing her troubled expression, Chris gently held her hand and asked, "What's wrong?"

After a prolonged silence, Lena finally asked, "Do you know that village?"

"Yeah." Chris nodded. "When I was on a mission here before, I visited that village. It looks closer than it actually is. You have to cross this mountain, and it's quite a long distance."

"Do you know the people there?" Lena clutched her tea cup tightly, suddenly feeling a chill.

Chris nodded. "I know that the village is even poorer and more isolated. The men there are very lazy, and their only pastime is drinking. After drinking, they often mistreat women..."

He abruptly stopped as realization dawned on him.

Lena had previously confided that she had grown up in a mountain village, where she was fostered. The man in that family would become violent after drinking, often causing her to suffer for no reason... "Lenny!" Chris held her in his arms and gently stroked her back.

Lena took a deep breath, paused for a moment, and finally mustered the courage to say, "I grew up there."