Ch. 1611..1620

Chapter 1611

Chapter 1611

It was a chilly late autumn, much like the last time. Daniel had spent a significant sum to persuade Maisie to stay with him when she was desperate.

Autumn in Cumulus City mirrored Centrolis. It was dry and chilly, with golden sycamore leaves adorning the entire city. It cast a dreamy and romantic spell over the otherwise quiet urban landscape.

Back then.

Maisie was a university student in her third year.

To ensure Maisie's well-being, Daniel arranged for her brother's treatment at the best hospital, providing her with a generous monthly allowance. This transformed her into someone without status or identity, someone he could instruct.

However, he didn't rush to win her heart from the outset. For some inexplicable reason, he felt a unique connection with her from their very first meeting.

Later, he realized it was something they called "love at first sight". Regrettably, he recognized this feeling too late.

On the day they officially became a couple, Daniel's driver chauffeured Maisie to a luxurious villa.

While Cumulus City had many exquisite villas, this one was exceptional. Nestled in the city center, it offered tranquility amidst the urban hustle, featuring a classic European-style house surrounded by romantic sycamore trees.

Stepping inside, Maisie felt as though she had entered a painting.

The driver introduced her to a kind lady.

"Miss, this is Aunt Leah," the driver said respectfully. "She'll be looking after you from now on."

Being addressed so respectfully as "Miss" was a first for Maisie, and it left her feeling flustered.

"Mr. Mr. Quimby will join you in the evening." Leah smiled. "What would you like for dinner, Ms. Maisie? I'll prepare it for you."

Maisie shook her head and proceeded to prepare a feast for Daniel. It was the most satisfying meal he had ever had. She worked culinary magic, turning ordinary ingredients into a delightful experience.

"Mr. Quimby?"

Startled, Daniel returned to reality, captivated by the aroma of the food. What he saw felt like a memory come to life.

"What's the matter, Mr. Quimby?" Maisie stood before him, holding a bottle of sauce, her face adorned with a smile. "The supermarket downstairs had limited choices. Sephy said they didn't have your favorite brand of sauce, so I picked this one. Is it alright?"

"Granduncle!" Persephone chimed in, rubbing her tummy. "I'm starving! Can we eat?"

Maisie held Persephone's hand and said gently, "Let's dig in!"

"I want Ms. Maisie to feed me!" Persephone stated.

"Hey, don't you eat by yourself at kindergarten? You can use a spoon, so why do you want me to feed you at home?" Maisie quipped.

Persephone leaned against her, speaking playfully. "I want you to feed me! I know you fed my granduncle before. If you can feed him, you can feed me too, right?"

Maisie blushed, her heart racing.

Daniel approached and tugged on Persephone's braid, looking at Maisie apologetically. "L-Let's eat," Maisie stammered and hurried into the kitchen to fetch plates and utensils.

After dinner, Daniel and Persephone bid goodbye to Maisie.

He walked in contemplative silence, absentmindedly letting go of Persephone's hand a few times.

The little girl had to run to catch up and eventually managed to run ahead. Breathless, she stood in front of him and glared at him with her hands on her hips. "Why didn't you wait for me?" Only then did he realize he had let go of her hand.

However, he didn't offer the comfort he typically would. Instead, he seemed like a lifeless puppet, staring blankly into the distance.

"Granduncle?" Persephone furrowed her brow. "You're acting strangely today. Did you not eat? The food Ms. Maisie made was delicious!"

"Yes, it was." He forced a smile and replied, "I've had it before. I ate it every day."

Chapter 1612

Chapter 1612

"What?"

Daniel turned to look at Persephone. He patted her head and lifted her up. "I'll take you home, Sephy."

"Are you going somewhere else?" Persephone asked.

"I want to go to the theme park," Daniel replied.

Persephone cheered. "I'm coming too!"

"I'm sorry, Sephy," he said, looking at her, "I can't take you with me today. I'd like to be alone."

Persephone felt down but didn't make a fuss. She understood that her beloved granduncle was having a tough day.

'Is it because of Ms. Maisie?' Persephone recalled how she used to be rewarded with snacks every time she shared information about Maisie with him. She figured she could brighten his mood by revealing a secret about her teacher.

She leaned in close to his ear. "Granduncle, let me tell you something about Ms. Maisie..."

She emphasized, "The prince is coming back!"

"What?" His expression changed, as she expected.

"It's true." Persephone nodded. "She told me herself when we were buying sauce. The prince is returning to discuss their wedding. Granduncle, is a wedding like the picture my mommy and daddy have at home? Will they take pictures together and live together in the future?"

Daniel released her hands, and Persephone nearly fell. Luckily, one of the bodyguards behind them caught her just in time.

The shocked little princess gazed at Daniel. He appeared even paler than before, with a deeper seriousness in his eyes.

The bodyguards exchanged glances, unsure of what was going through his mind. They only noticed his clenched fists trembling at his sides.

"Mr. Quimby, should we "

Before one of the bodyguards could finish, Daniel turned and strode back.

His footsteps were swift, powerful, and heavy. His mind was in turmoil, torn between wanting to prevent Maisie from marrying Graham and not wanting to disrupt her peaceful life. He longed to finally share the past with her but feared the pain it might bring her.

He felt conflicted and panicked. He had never been afraid of anything, but Maisie was the exception.

Upon arriving at Maisie's, he saw that someone had beaten him there. This person had gone to the apartment opposite hers, only knocking on her door after putting down his bags.

Maisie was stunned when she opened the door, her eyes filled with surprise.

"What? Don't you welcome me?" The newcomer was Graham!

Daniel stood at the corridor's side, watching from a distance as Maisie embraced Graham like a joyful bird.

"Why did you come? I didn't know that you..." Maisie was flustered.

Graham smiled, playing with her hair. "Didn't I mention that I was returning to discuss our wedding?"

"But..."

"I told you it was happening next month when we spoke on the phone. I came back early to surprise you."

Tears welled up in her eyes as she hugged him with a smile.

Daniel's eyes gradually dimmed as if needles were pricking his heart.

Chapter 1613

Chapter 1613

Daniel observed as Maisie welcomed Graham with a smile. However, as the door closed behind them, his heart sank.

He restlessly paced back and forth, eventually reaching for his phone to call his subordinate. He couldn't contain his frustration and yelled as soon as the call was answered, "Why is Graham here?!" His subordinate was taken aback, clueless about the situation.

In need of a moment to calm down, Daniel closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly.

"I asked, why is Graham staying in the apartment in Mange Square, right across from my house?" he asked with more composure.

The subordinate hesitated before speaking. "I... I'm not sure."

Daniel was frustrated. He hung up and awaited an update from his subordinate.

After a short while, he received a report. "Mr. Quimby, the Bayers don't own the apartment Mr. Bayer is staying at. He bought it after making his first million from venture capital. It's his personal property." "Why did he choose this place, then?" Daniel questioned.

His subordinate found himself in a difficult position. "Mr. Quimby, it's a great location. We can't stop him from purchasing it."

Uncertain how to vent his anger, Daniel strolled over to Maisie's door and paced back and forth. The apartment had been meticulously renovated, with even the door soundproofed, preventing him from listening to what was transpiring inside.

Would Graham stay there tonight?

'Absence makes the heart grow fonder...' he thought.

They had been apart for so long, but that didn't mean they would...

No!

Daniel quickly dismissed that thought. Maisie was a traditional girl who wouldn't give herself away before marriage. But... what about their past experiences?

Inappropriate images flashed through his mind, and he clenched his fists, veins bulging on his arms. He fixated on the door, feeling he might lose control at any moment.

Unexpectedly, at that very moment, Graham emerged from the apartment. They locked eyes, both expressing shock.

"You're... Mr. Quimby?" Graham recognized him.

Daniel nodded, his expression frosty.

Graham looked uneasy. "Have you been looking out for Maisie?"

Daniel remained silent.

"Thank you for your help," Graham added. "The rent here is quite high. I can cover it if she can't pay you on time." "Mr. Bayer," Daniel called out to him. "Do you live next door?"

"Yes."

"I purchased this house a few years ago on a whim. I had no idea we'd become neighbors," Daniel said with a flat smile.

"Don't misunderstand. Ms. Maisie takes good care of my Sephy, so I wanted to find a way to thank her. Since she happened to be moving, I offered her the house. But if you're staying here, it might be better fo her to move in with you so she won't have to pay me rent."

"Sure." Graham said cryptically, "Why don't you talk to her? I think your words mean more to her than mine."

Without looking back, he entered his house and closed the door loudly, leaving Daniel annoyed. He rang Maisie's doorbell, and Nicole answered. He spotted Maisie sitting in the living room. "Um..."

"What's up, Mr. Quimby?" Nicole asked.

Daniel came up with an excuse, "Sephy told me she left her hair tie here and asked me to pick it up for her."

Nicole was no fool and understood his real intention. She stepped outside and drew Daniel aside in the corridor.

"Mr. Quimby," she began hesitantly. "Could you please stop disturbing Maisie?"

Daniel frowned.

"I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have said that." Nicole continued, still intimidated. "But she had a fight with Mr. Bayer, and you played a part in it." "Did he misunderstand?" he asked.

"She told him everything," Nicole said. "You defended her and helped her move. Any man would misunderstand."

Surprisingly, Daniel found it rather amusing. Maisie was still so innocent that she shared everything with her fiance. She didn't understand men at all. "Besides, she doesn't want to move in with Mr. Bayer," Nicole added. "She doesn't want to do that before the wedding. He's upset, thinking it's because of you."

He was taken aback. 'So, the couple hasn't been intimate yet,' he thought.

That wasn't what mattered to him, but he was relieved to hear Nicole's revelation. Maisie had always been his.

Feigning a cough, he asked, "Their fight was about these things?"

"I'm part of it too," Nicole admitted. "For the 4,000,000 dollars for Wesley..."

He suspected Nicole might be a masochist to endure such a relationship with a man like Wesley for so long. Even if she mustered the courage to divorce him, getting rid of Wesley wouldn't be easy.

The 4,000,000 dollars represented their shared debt after marriage. She would have to shoulder the debt unless she could prove they hadn't used the money for both of them. Naturally, Wesley wouldn't bear 2,000,000 dollars by himself-he had shifted the entire burden to her.

Daniel said slowly, "So, he refuses to pay for you?"

Nicole felt ashamed, wishing she could disappear.

"The Bayers don't care about that insignificant amount of money." Daniel continued. "But Graham is shrewd. Why would he pay before Maisie is committed to him? He's still cautious with his money." "Mr. Quimby..."

"Neither do I have any obligation to take on your and Wesley's debt," Daniel stated coldly, his eyes reflecting an abyss that seemed to swallow her last glimmer of hope.

"Who is Maisie to me?" he added, scoffing. "Didn't you want me to stay away from her so she could have peace?"

Nicole looked at him in astonishment and took a step back.

Daniel left without looking back. However, when he reached the ground floor, he glanced back at the lit top floor and made a call to his subordinate.

"Fetch Fat Lawler for me."

His subordinate was bewildered. "What did you say, Mr. Quimby?"

"I want to see Fat Lawler," he repeated.

The call ended with the subordinate still in shock. If Daniel remembered correctly, the men who had attempted to kidnap Maisie had claimed to be working for Fat Lawler...

Chapter 1614

Chapter 1614

A few days later, Daniel's subordinate handed him an invitation and Fat Lawler's information.

"This Fat Lawler has been running Cumulus City's underworld. His influence in Centrolis is minor, but he has been infiltrating Centrolis in recent years."

Daniel casually flipped through the file, "So, did he succeed?"

"Not really." His subordinate smiled. "You know that Centrolis is your brother-in-law's territory. Even though Nic is no longer in the underworld, his sway is much greater than Fat Lawler's. But there's one thing..."

"What is it?"

"Fat Lawler is smart to be cozying up to the kingpins in Centrolis. As Nic is no longer a part of the underworld, they no longer belong to the same world, and he has to abide by their rules. Although he's influential, he can't meddle in the underworld.

"Also, Fat Lawler's business primarily revolves around casinos and providing loans. Whether in Cumulus City or Centrolis, he has a piece of the pie in both casinos and providing loans businesses. "Meanwhile, Wesley went to Fat Lawler's casino and borrowed 4,000,000 dollars from him. Those kingpins can't intervene even if they want to. It's Fat Lawler's territory, and they can't bend the rules." "Hmm..." Daniel frowned and glanced at the invitation.

"He's opening an underground casino this weekend," his subordinate said. "He's aware of your connection to Nic, so... he's requested to meet you there."

Daniel nodded and replied, "Sure."

Daniel lit a cigarette after his subordinate departed, and the nicotine smell hung in the air. He used to smoke and drink, but he had quit all of it when he and Maisie ended their relationship. He was willing to change for her, just as he was willing to stand up for her now.

Over the weekend, he successfully met Fat Lawler. The underground casino was located in a remote suburban area disguised as an abandoned construction site. The exterior looked rundown, but it was a whole different world as one stepped inside.

Fat Lawler had spared no expense on the luxurious renovations, knowing exactly what gamblers desired.

His subordinates searched Daniel and led him to a hidden room. As soon as he opened the ornate door, he saw the lingering smoke from a recently extinguished cigarette. A man was leisurely playing billiards. He appeared to be in his 50s, wearing a red coral necklace. He was somewhat plump but exuded charisma. His friendly demeanor concealed a lurking danger honed in the criminal underworld. "Sir, the guest has arrived," the subordinate announced.

Fat Lawler finished his last game with composure. The 8-ball went into the pocket just as he intended. He smiled and stood up to address Daniel. "Hello, Fat Lawler." Daniel nodded.

"Hello, Mr. Quimby." Fat Lawler smiled. "Your brother-in-law and I have no business with each other. I'm curious why you've come to see me today." Daniel didn't reply immediately. Instead, he smirked. "You're familiar with my brother-in-law?"

"Nic is well-known. In the underworld, who doesn't know him? But I've heard that he ventured into... the entertainment business after he retired?"

"He's talented and fair. He treats people well, so, of course, there are those who want to work for him," Daniel said.

Fat Lawler paused, looking at him with a squint. "Mr. Quimby, are you here to... ask me to work for him?"

"No." Daniel met his gaze, "I won't beat around the bush, Fat Lawler. I'm not here for him. I'm using his name to ask for a favor from you."

"What?"

"You lent money to a man named Wesley Mebane, right?"

Chapter 1615

Chapter 1615

Fat Lawler furrowed his brow, deep in thought. He didn't recall the name Wesley Mebane.

"I've got my subordinates handling my business," he replied matter-of-factly. "We give out loans to a lot of folks daily. How could I be expected to remember them all? But why are you asking about this?" "Wesley is a worthless gambler and a real jerk. But, well, he happens to be my..." Daniel paused for a moment, then continued. "He's my wife's brother-in-law."

"Your wife?" Fat Lawler asked.

"Exactly." Daniel nodded with a hint of a smile. "He had the audacity to use my wife as collateral. He even suggested that your subordinates could have her if he couldn't pay up."

Fat Lawler's expression grew serious. "How did this happen?"

Just then, someone whispered in his ear, and he had a sudden realization. A cold gleam flashed in his eyes.

"So, you're the one who had my two subordinates arrested that day!"

Daniel remained composed. "They caused trouble for my wife. I showed mercy by having them handed over to the police."

"Mr. Quimby, you..."

Fat Lawler's attention spiked. Had Daniel brought the police?

With a signal, his subordinates, who surrounded him, swiftly drew their guns. The dark muzzles aimed at Daniel's head, and his expression remained cool, his eyes commanding.

"Fat Lawler, I'm here to talk. No need to worry about the police," Daniel reassured.

Fat Lawler glanced around and gestured for his subordinates to lower their weapons.

Soon, someone brought Wesley's promissory note to the table. The document clearly stated that if Wesley failed to pay, Maisie would take the blame, subject to Fat Lawler's whims.

"This is the promissory note. Do you want me to dispose of it, Mr. Quimby?" Fat Lawler asked.

"I'll give you the 4,000,000 dollars," Daniel said coldly. "I'll wire the funds once I get your confirmation."

"This isn't your decision." Fat Lawler scoffed. "It goes against our agreement. The promissory note serves as proof. If I do as you ask, won't I be reneging on my word? How can I maintain my reputation? "Besides, it's not just 4,000,000 dollars anymore. It's been dragging on, and with interest, it's now 4,700,000 dollars."

Daniel's eyes dimmed. In just a few days, the debt had grown by 700,000 dollars. This wasn't lending loans-it was blackmail.

"Mr. Quimby, money is secondary," Fat Lawler explained. "I decline mainly because accepting your terms now would set an undesirable precedent. Others will expect the same leniency if I agree to this for you. My operation would descend into chaos."

"Hmm! Fat Lawler..." Daniel advanced, towering over the older man. The proximity felt imposing. "Rules are dead, but humans are alive. Consider this: how long can you sustain this business? Can it truly provide you with enduring wealth?"

"What are you getting at?" Fat Lawler asked.

Daniel chuckled and took a seat on the couch, radiating confidence. "Providing loans and gambling are illegal in Centrolis. Earnings may be lucrative, but every penny comes with the specter of the law. "What if I presented a solution that legitimizes your wealth, surpassing your current gains? Would you still demand 4,700,000 dollars from me?"

Chapter 1616

Chapter 1616

Maisie hadn't seen Daniel outside the kindergarten for a few days. Instead, it was the Hamertons' nanny and bodyguards who came to pick up Persephone.

She didn't know why, but she would instinctively look for him as soon as school was over. She told herself it was wrong. However, she couldn't shake Daniel from her mind as if she was bewitched. As she opened the door to the apartment, the door across from her opened, revealing Graham with a smile on his face. He walked toward her.

"I... I don't have a kettle here. Can I have a cup of tea at your place?" he asked.

She nodded and let him in. She made a pot of Ceylon tea but noticed his frown when she brought it out.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"I..." He hesitated. "I never drink this tea."

She was stunned. Indeed, she had never found out what he liked. Meanwhile, Daniel had drunk this tea when he came the other day. She flushed, feeling guilty.

Maisie was about to make him a new one, but Graham grabbed her.

"Maisie, can we talk?" he asked.

She looked at him and sat across from him.

"It was... my fault," he admitted. "I shouldn't have misunderstood you and Mr. Quimby. I shouldn't have said something so horrible. You're my fiancee, and I should trust you." She held her head down and said nothing.

"About the 4,000,000 dollars debt your brother-in-law owes..." He paused, and Maisie looked up, hopeful and nervous, like a student waiting for exam results.

"I stand by what I said," he stated, his voice soft but clear. "It's his debt. He should bear it. Also, the promissory note with you as the collateral is illegal to begin with. We can sue them if they cause trouble for you again.

"Maisie, I still think we should use the law to solve this instead of giving in."

"You..." She looked at him blankly, unsure of what to say.

Graham had grown up overseas with a different way of thinking. To him, regardless of the Bayers' wealth, the money belonged to his parents, and it had nothing to do with him. He preferred to make his own way in the world, valuing personal responsibility.

"Graham, have you ever thought that Wesley and my sister aren't divorced yet? They're bearing the debt together. She won't live a peaceful life as long as the debt is still there!"

"Must I sacrifice for them?" Graham questioned.

"I'm not asking you to do that. I just thought we could borrow money from you," she said, her voice trembling.

"Borrow?" Graham shook his head. "Maisie, how will you pay me back with your monthly salary? You're a kindergarten teacher whose annual salary is likely low."

"Graham-"

"Yes, we're getting married," he said, standing up and looking into her eyes, "But when it comes to money, I insist on drawing a clear line. Even for family, there are boundaries. I won't be like other men who forbid their spouses from working after getting married. My family doesn't have many rules, and I support you having your own career."

Maisie squinted and chuckled. "So, we're still going Dutch after we get married?"

"I don't think that's a bad thing." Graham shrugged. "It's the mode of marriage for most people nowadays. But since I have a higher income than you do, I'll contribute more to our daily expenses."

Her head was a mess at that moment.

"Trust me," Graham said as he walked over and patted her shoulder, "Our life will be great after we get married. We'll have fewer problems when we have everything in place."

She was stunned for a moment, then lifted her face and asked, "Can I ask you something, Graham?"

"Of course," he replied.

"What... do you like about me? Do you truly want to marry me?"

He paused, then smiled at her. "Aunt Linda brought you to Centrolis, and the people she likes must be great. I think you're a great person. You're down-to-earth and hardworking. You'll be a wonderful mother and wife in the future. You're a great candidate for marriage."

"So, you're marrying me because I fit your standards?" she asked with a forced smile.

"Isn't being a good fit great?" Graham raised his eyebrows. "It's rare to find someone who is a fit in everything."

What he said was true, but Maisie couldn't help feeling that something was missing.

Chapter 1617

Chapter 1617

Graham said, looking at Maisie, "Do you understand what I just said?"

Maisie smiled, indicating she understood.

This would mean they would have an independent marriage, not interfering with each other's lives, sharing living expenses, and offering help in family emergencies if desired, or not if they chose not to.

However, the Bayers were a prestigious family and were unlikely to face such emergencies. Meanwhile, Maisie was from a less notable background and seemed to be the one with endless troubles. She asked, "Graham, are you considering a prenup with me?"

"How did you guess?" His eyes brightened. "You've grasped my point, Maisie! I'm pleased."

Her surprise was evident. She had only been testing him, not expecting a definite answer.

"Prenups are necessary," he affirmed. "Many young people overseas do this before marriage. I've spent enough time abroad to embrace the concept, and I agree with it. It's better to clarify everything before marriage. Even if we were to divorce in the future, it would be straightforward. Otherwise, it'd be a waste of time and energy, detrimental for both parties."

Maisie was taken aback. "You've thought about divorce?"

He chuckled. "I believe in being prepared. Of course, no one aims for divorce when they marry, but it's wise to be ready."

He added, "I'm someone who values backup plans."

Maisie mustered a smile. The notion sounded reasonable-independence in marriage, financial boundaries, but...

If they couldn't support each other, not stand by in times of need, if they ended up splitting the cost of a bowl of salad, what was the point of such a marriage?

It wasn't about wanting his money-she hadn't dated him for his family's wealth. She had envisioned a life with him from the start, but now, it seemed she might have chosen the wrong person. She shook off the thought.

"I understand now," she assured him. "I won't bring up my brother-in-law's matter again. I'll..."

"You can't carry the burden alone!" Graham reassured her. "This is their issue. They need to resolve it themselves. If they can't, they'll face the consequences!"

"Graham! That's my sister!"

"Sisters can't stay together forever, can they?" Graham thought she was being unreasonable. "You can't solve all her problems."

"But don't you provide everything your sister asks for? She doesn't want to work. All she does is draw, and you invested in an animation company for her!"

"My sister is different from yours," Graham remarked.

Maisie stood there, shocked, and asked, "How are they different?"

Realizing his mistake, Graham quickly grabbed her hand. "That's not what I meant! I—"

"Forget it! You don't have to explain." She let go of his hand. "I understand."

Arya was a prestigious princess, deserving everything she desired, while her sister, born humbly, didn't deserve respect.

Just as Graham was about to clarify his statement, the doorbell rang. It was Nicole with two men.

Maisie's heart raced as these men appeared suspicious. She hurriedly approached her sister.

"Don't be afraid," one of the men said with a smile. "We work for Fat Lawler and are here to escort your sister home."

Nicole explained, stuttering, "-FFat Lawler said... W-Wesley's debt has been forgiven."

The man added, "And we're responsible for your safety from now on. We won't let Wesley bother you. Fat Lawler's men are searching for him citywide. We'll make him sign the divorce papers once we find him."

Maisie and Graham were stunned by the news.

"What happened, sis?"

"I'll tell you later," Nicole said, avoiding eye contact. She turned to the two men and said, "Thank you, but I don't need your assistance right now."

"Of course," they replied, bowing. "Call us if you need us."

"Mr. Bayer..." Nicole then looked at him. "You can't stay tonight. Could you..."

"Sure." He nodded and left.

Once the door closed, Maisie rushed to her sister. "What's going on? Why did you return from Fat Lawler's? Did he do something to you?"

Nicole pushed her away. "What are you thinking?! I was also scared, thinking I might die, but Fat Lawler brought me there to tear up Wesley's promissory note in front of me. He told me the debt was canceled and that he'd help me get a divorce from Wesley!"

Maisie couldn't believe it—she widened her eyes. "Why is he being so kind?"

"He's not being kind," Nicole replied cryptically. "Someone struck a deal with him."

"What?"

After a lengthy pause, Nicole revealed, "It's Mr. Quimby."

Maisie's heart skipped a beat.

Nicole continued. "He met with Fat Lawler and convinced him. The 4,000,000 dollars will be invested in his Liz-Inn Hotel, and Fat Lawler will become a shareholder."

Maisie pondered this, shaking her head in disbelief. She knew it couldn't be as simple as Nicole had been told. Daniel must have paid the 4,000,000 dollars himself. Not only had Fat Lawler made a great deal, but he had also secured a title as a shareholder.

Maisie's thoughts were in turmoil, and she couldn't fathom why Daniel had paid such a high price to help her. But one thing was clear-she felt safe when he was around.

She lay on the bed, her eyes falling on a cute bear plush toy. She smiled and hugged it. As she closed her eyes, all she could see was Daniel.

Chapter 1618

Chapter 1618

The next day, Maisie hesitated but eventually decided to call Daniel.

Her heart raced when the call connected, and she felt nervous hearing Daniel's deep, electric voice on the other end.

"Maisie?" Daniel suppressed his joy, keeping his tone flat. "Why did you call?"

"I heard about what happened with my sister," she said, "I know you helped. I'm grateful."

"Oh, it's nothing." He played it cool. "Fat Lawler and my brother-in-law go way back. I was just catching up for him."

She mustered her courage and said, "Mr. Quimby, let me treat you to a meal just like before. You come to my place, and I'll cook."

Daniel's heart almost jumped out.

He was over the moon. He wanted to say yes, but his rationality kicked in.

In the end, he suppressed his emotions.

He pretended to be calm and said, "No need."

Maisie was disappointed but tried again. "It's actually my sister who initiated this. She's grateful for you. Not only did you help her clear her debt, but you also helped her get a divorce..." "No need, really." Daniel chuckled. "You don't have to take it so seriously."

"Mr. Quimby..."

"I'm sorry, I've got to run. That's all for now."

As the call ended, Maisie's eyes dimmed.

Daniel stared into space on the couch for a long time. He snapped back to his senses when his subordinate called him.

"Are you going to sign the document?"

"Oh..." He refocused and reviewed the document. He nearly signed it in the wrong box.

His subordinate sighed upon seeing him losing his spirit. "Mr. Quimby, why didn't you—"

"I shouldn't see her again," Daniel took a deep breath. His eyes were tired. "Her boyfriend's back. I'll stir up trouble for her if we still see each other."

"But I don't think she sees it that way."

"What do you know!" Daniel glared at him.

His subordinate put the document away and left.

Daniel leaned on the couch, forcing a smile. He hoped Maisie would come back to him, but what he wanted more was for her to return willingly.

Loyalty was Maisie's core belief. Even though she didn't love him, she would still be loyal to her fiance, Graham.

If he interfered with their relationship and she fell in love with him, she would blame herself and be in pain.

Daniel held his forehead, feeling a deep sense of sadness. Like thorns growing in the wind, his heart ached and felt chaotic.

When Daniel arrived at the Thompsons, Linda teased him immediately. "Wow, the VIP is here! Do you still remember your sister?"

He smiled and handed a gift to the butler.

"What goodies have you brought?" Nicholas asked, peering with tea in his hand.

"Don't worry. You'll love it," Daniel assured.

"I only like allowances and cigarettes now. Don't give me anything else!" Nicholas stated.

Linda sat on the couch, too far away to hit him, so she glared at him.

Nicholas playfully showed his teeth at her, like kids.

Daniel envied their carefree relationship. It was then that he noticed Zuko and Lina were also present.

Linda affectionately called him "uncle" and said, "Ah, you're so young. They should be calling you 'cousin' instead!"

Chapter 1619

Chapter 1619

Linda said with a smile as she pulled Lina closer, "He's not much older than you, anyway.

"Daniel, it's perfect that you're here. Let's have dinner together. Zuko and Lina have some good news."

"Oh?"

"I'm going to be a grandmother again!"

Stunned, Daniel looked at them.

Lina blushed, leaning her head coquettishly on Zuko's shoulder.

"Lina's pregnant again." Zuko's face beamed with joy. "She's just entered her third month. The baby's healthy, and Lina is feeling well. Everything's good!"

"Congratulations."

Daniel offered his congratulations, but in his mind, he couldn't help but think, 'Ugh! Your parents were just killing me with their PDA, and now it's your turn. Is this family going to make me, the single man, die of loneliness?'

"Ah, my granduncle's here!" Persephone, drenched in sweat from playing, ran in from the courtyard. She held a toy gun and playfully aimed it at Daniel.

Daniel fell onto the couch, pretending to be shot, and they all had fun.

"Let's play in the courtyard!" The young princess dragged Daniel outside before he could say anything.

Daniel was more than happy to seize the opportunity to escape the living room filled with public displays of affection.

Persephone ran and jumped around the courtyard, but Daniel didn't seem thrilled while following her.

She took his hand and looked up at him. "Granduncle, why aren't you playing with me?"

"Can we sit down for a bit, Sephy?" he asked.

"Mm-hmm." She obediently sat on his lap, even fanning his face with her little hand.

That brought a smile to Daniel's face. "Did you know there's a baby in your mom's womb?"

"I do!"

"Do you want it to be a brother or a sister?"

"Hmm... A brother!"

"Why?"

"I can play with him!" She giggled and played with her toy gun. "I wouldn't want to do that if it's a sister!"

"You little rascal!" He playfully scratched her nose. "Where do you get all these funny ideas?"

"Granduncle, will you be happier if I tell you a secret?"

His expression dimmed.

She leaned closer to his ear and whispered, "Ms. Maisie asked why you stopped picking me up."

"Oh." He looked composed on the outside, but turmoil brewed within.

"Granduncle, are you hiding from her?"

"What?" He was taken aback. "Who told you that?"

"Ms. Maisie did," she said with utmost seriousness. "After asking me, she whispered, 'Is he hiding from me?' Hehe! Even though her voice was soft, I have sharp ears! Granduncle, aren't I the best?"

Daniel suddenly felt a pang of guilt. What Nicole had said was true. He always intruded into Maisie's life without notice in the past and now and left just as unexpectedly.

"Granduncle, can you stop hiding from her?" She gazed into his eyes. "She's going to try on wedding dresses this Sunday. You can see how beautiful she's going to look!" "What did you say?" he exclaimed.

"She asked me to be her flower girl!" Persephone beamed with pride. "I'll be trying on dresses on Sunday too! Granduncle, come with us, okay?"

Chapter 1620

Chapter 1620

Daniel hesitated at first, but his mouth had already agreed before he realized it.

"Sephy, where's the place for trying on the wedding dresses?" Daniel asked.

Persephone momentarily pondered and replied, "It's on the city's south side, at a studio."

Daniel nodded.

After returning home, Daniel managed to piece together the location based on Persephone's fragmented information. It turned out to be a high-end bridal brand renowned both in Centrolis and internationally. Daniel smiled cynically as he thought that this probably wasn't the place Graham had found. It seemed likely that the heir to the Bayer family had been directed by his parents to choose a wedding dress there. After all, a man who split living expenses probably wouldn't be keen on spending so much money.

On the weekend, in the south of Centrolis.

Graham and Maisie arrived at the bridal store on time.

Persephone, who was seeing these exquisite gowns for the first time, excitedly hopped among the colorful dresses.

The chief designer, Mario Lyon, personally greeted the couple.

Maisie couldn't help but chuckle when she saw his fashionable appearance-long hair in a floral bandana and a matching personality.

Mario introduced himself, "Thank you for waiting. I'm Mary... Oops, no, no, I'm Mario! Manly Mario, got it?"

Trying to stifle her laughter, Maisie greeted Mario after Graham had finished chatting with him.

Mario examined her with delight and remarked, "You're the most beautiful bride I've ever seen! Let's start with the bridal makeup for the bride. No rush for the groom. He can wait outside." Graham seemed indifferent, as if this matter did not involve him.

Persephone interjected, "Mister, there's also me!"

Mario grinned and agreed, "Oh, there's a little princess here? Alright, you can follow the big princess to the back. I shall personally get you dressed!" Persephone cheered and led Maisie inside.

Unexpectedly, Graham's phone rang at that moment. He went outside to pick up and returned looking flustered after a brief conversation.

"Sorry, Maisie," he said, "I have something urgent and need to leave. You can try on the wedding dress by yourself and let me know your choice later."

Maisie was taken aback. She couldn't fathom what could be more important than trying on wedding dresses that day or what could possibly be more significant to Graham than his fiancee.

Even Mario expressed his bewilderment, stating, "Asking the bride to try on wedding dresses alone? Why have a groom at all? You could just get married on your own!"

Maisie held back her emotions and managed to say, "Alright, he's very busy. I can try them on by myself."

Mario called over some assistants and instructed, "Ladies, let's get to work!"

Meanwhile, Persephone took advantage of the assistants' distraction, sneaked outside, and called Daniel.

"Hello, granduncle!" She whispered, "It's your turn now!"

"Okay."

"Granduncle, you're amazing! How did you know that the prince would leave?" she asked.

Daniel smirked, even though he had only been guessing. Graham's words and actions hinted at his reluctance to go through with the marriage.

Furthermore, Daniel's expression darkened as he examined a picture in his hand. The photo depicted a couple walking closely together, with the man's arm around the woman's waist. Although they appeared to be an ordinary couple, the man was Graham, and the woman was not Maisie.

Gritting his teeth, Daniel put the picture away and entered the bridal store.

Maisie had just begun to select her makeup, and the assistants were introducing various bridal styles.

Daniel approached, shaking his head. "These don't suit her. Find something light and fresh."

Maisie was startled, barely able to speak when she saw him. Her emotions were hard to describe at that moment.

Daniel stood there with a reassuring smile, like a beacon of hope.

After a pause, Maisie finally greeted him, "Mr. Quimby... Why are you also here?"

Daniel had a ready answer. He looked at Mario, patting him on the shoulder. "It's been a while."

Mario was at a loss for words.

Daniel explained to Maisie, "Mario's my friend, and I haven't seen him despite being in Centrolis for a while. I'm here today just to visit him. What a coincidence to run into you."

Mario was rendered speechless, and Daniel added, "Let Ms. Squire choose her makeup, and you can give me a tour."

With a firm grip on Mario's shoulder, Daniel took him upstairs.

When they were a good distance away from the lower floor, Daniel let go, and Mario rolled his eyes.

"Are you... Mr. Daniel Quimby?"

"Indeed," Daniel said with a smirk. "You recognized me."

Mario snorted. "When did we become friends?"

"Starting now."

"Is it that easy?"

Daniel was undeterred. "I can double the value of your brand."

"Am I that desperate for money and fame?"

"Triple it."

"Think I can be bribed so easily?"

Daniel blinked. "Five times."

"I bow to your persistence!"

Pleased with the outcome, Daniel continued, "Now..."

Mario quickly said, "I'll go measure the girl right away!"