Ch. 1691..1700

Chapter 1691

Chapter 1691

Daniel's heart skipped a beat as he gently kissed her on the cheeks.

"Never," he said, his voice low and resolute.

Maisie smiled happily.

The car behind them honked as the traffic light turned green. They exchanged smiles, and Daniel quickly drove toward their destination.

Their destination was a stylish private club nestled in the mountains, surrounded by lush trees, making the porcelain-white building appear like a pearl in the forest.

Maisie's curiosity brimmed as she looked at him. "Why did you bring me here?"

"Didn't I say we're meeting some people?" Daniel asked.

"Are they your business associates? I..." Maisie hesitated, but Daniel didn't wait for her refusal. He took her hand and led her into the VIP room.

The people inside had been waiting for a while. Once they saw Daniel, they all stood up.

Maisie examined them. There was a middle-aged man who looked gentlemanly and a seemingly capable career woman. She was surprised because these people seemed familiar like those often seen on in- depth interview programs on television.

They all treated Daniel with great respect.

"You're probably not strangers to these people," Daniel said, holding her hand. "They're all renowned journalists in Cumulus City and frequently appear on national television."

Maisie felt a little excited. The other day, Daniel had mentioned introducing her to some journalist friends who could help with her exam preparations. She had been under the impression he had just said that in passing, but he had really delivered on his promise.

Moreover, these journalist friends had quite a significant influence.

Maisie looked at Daniel with gratitude and joy, politely greeting the journalists.

These seasoned journalists were quite sharp. When they saw that Daniel, who was usually aloof with women, was showing such concern for an ordinary young girl and using his connections to help her, they could more or less guess what was going on.

With knowing smiles, they subtly shifted the conversation to the topic of journalism exams. They discussed the exam process, question types, and answering techniques and even offered advice on how to work in the field and uncover valuable news stories in the future. They shared their knowledge extensively.

Maisie was overwhelmed by the amount of information she received, but Daniel had prepared for this. He had not only brought a voice recorder but also had these journalists write their experiences and insights into documents that would be sent to her via email.

"Don't rush it. Take it slow," Daniel said with a gentle look in his eyes. "These mentors are seasoned professionals in this field. You can ask them for advice anytime."

"Yes, yes!" The journalists chimed in enthusiastically. "Actually, from our conversation earlier, we could tell that you have great potential. You'll surely become an outstanding figure in this field!" Maisie chuckled modestly. She knew these were flattering words, and they were all saying this out of respect for Daniel.

At that moment, she felt an unusual gaze fixed on her. She turned to look, and the female journalist, who was not far away, met her gaze. The journalist averted her eyes, pretending to be nonchalant. Maisie furrowed her brow. After a while, she looked back at the female journalist subconsciously and realized she was still staring at her.

The woman seemed to be in her mid-30s, with an alluring appearance and fashionable attire, but her gaze was unfriendly. She exuded an air of arrogance, looking down on others as if she were superior. It made Maisie uncomfortable.

Chapter 1692

Chapter 1692

The meeting ended quickly, and everyone else left, leaving only two journalists.

One of them was Leroy Kerk, who had a close relationship with Daniel, and the other was the woman who had been eyeing Maisie earlier.

"You might not have remembered with so many people around earlier," Daniel reassured Maisie with a smile. "This is Leroy, a significant figure in this field, and we're old friends." "And this..." Daniel paused. "She is Amanda Winslade, the Editor-in-Chief of Cumulus Morning Post."

Maisie politely nodded her head, but Amanda's attitude remained icy. Maisie even sensed a hint of anger in Amanda's eyes.

"Alright, it's getting late," Leroy said with a smile. "I still have work to do, so I won't disturb you and Ms. Squire. Amanda, are you leaving? I can give you a ride."

"Sure," Amanda replied with a light laugh. "Mr. Quimby, we'll be taking our leave."

She only greeted Daniel and completely ignored Maisie as if she were invisible.

Maisie found this quite puzzling. Her first thought was whether she had made an enemy back when she was in Cumulus City.

Once they were outside, Leroy frowned as he looked at Amanda. "I've got to say, you were acting a bit strange just now."

Amanda glanced at him and smirked. "Strange? It seems I'm not the only one, am I?"

Leroy knew what was on her mind. He had also been taken aback when he first saw Maisie.

Back then, they had all assumed that Daniel was just playing around with the young girl and wouldn't get emotionally involved. Who knew he would fall so deeply for her? Even after all they had been through, he still wanted to be with her.

Amanda lowered her voice. "Leroy, Maisie is Daniel's previous girlfriend, but she disappeared two years ago. How did Daniel bring her back?"

"Hush, keep your voice down!" Leroy quickly pulled her to a spot further from the club. "Daniel's people are still around here. Watch your words! If we provoke him, your news agency and my company will be in big trouble!"

Amanda crossed her arms and pouted, turning her face away.

As the mentor who had once taught Amanda the ins and outs of journalism, Leroy understood her feelings, but he felt quite helpless about it.

Amanda had a long-standing crush on Daniel, but no matter how she interacted with him under the pretext of interviews, he always treated her strictly professionally. However, her feelings for him only deepened.

She no longer had any interest in other men and kept stalling romantic affairs, including marriage, making her still single in her 30s.

Leroy didn't want to see her like this. He had subtly tried to find out if Daniel had any romantic interest in her and received negative answers.

However, later on, they heard that Daniel had the company of a female college student...

Amanda didn't believe it at first, thinking it was rumors by Daniel's business rivals. However, when she saw Daniel kissing Maisie in front of the villa with her own eyes, something seemed to have exploded in her head.

Daniel had bought that villa in secret. It was by Cumulus City's river and oversaw the best riverview. It was also where he kept the girl.

Later, Amanda began to investigate Maisie obsessively. The name "Maisie" became like a thorn embedded deeply in her heart.

Chapter 1693

Chapter 1693

When Amanda delved into Maisie's background, the results left her disappointed. Maisie, a financially struggling student with family burdens, had little to her history.

In terms of looks, she appeared decent, but compared to Daniel's social circle, she might seem plain. She had delicate features, long hair, a petite figure, and minimal makeup. It appeared there wasn't much more to her than this.

Amanda couldn't fathom how Daniel, used to a high-class lifestyle, could fall for this seemingly unremarkable woman.

Leroy's voice interrupted Amanda's thoughts. "Don't be too hard on yourself. Love isn't always easy to explain. I know you still have feelings for Daniel, but I suggest you move on. This guy isn't someone to mess with."

"But-"

Leroy said, looking serious, "Amanda, I'm telling you this because you're my mentee. Take my words to heart."

Amanda fell silent.

After a while, Leroy spoke in a hushed voice. "Besides, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and that 'plain Jane' isn't exactly plain."

"Don't men like these seemingly fragile, delicate women?"

"Amanda!"

Seeing Leroy genuinely upset, Amanda quickly apologized for her impulsive comment. However, she couldn't let it go and asked, "Back then, she lost her child and almost lost her life... I just can't believe that she and Mr. Quimby could reconcile after such a significant incident."

Leroy frowned. "You... I can't say more. Daniel doesn't want too much revealed."

Amanda continued. "I believe we should investigate this matter further."

Leroy glared at her, saying, "That's enough! You're a journalist. Focus on news, not personal matters!"

He walked away from her.

Amanda rolled her eyes, took out her phone, and prepared to continue her investigation.

After lunch, Daniel took Maisie to a five-star hotel of the Quimby Group. They reached the top floor via the elevator, where Maisie noticed that this level had only one room, with the rest of the space converted into fitness and entertainment facilities. On the rooftop platform, a black helicopter with "Quimby" on the side awaited.

"It's mine," Daniel said, placing his hand on her shoulder and smiling gently. "I've had it checked and maintained by professionals. I'll take you for a ride when it's ready."

Before Maisie could fully process this, he took her hand and led her into the suite.

"You can stay here during your time in Cumulus City."

Maisie was taken aback, saying, "But..."

"I know you don't want to stay at home," Daniel said, holding her hand. "This is my private suite. The exclusive elevator we just took brings you here directly."

Maisie took a deep breath and paced around the room. Like the apartment in Centrolis, there were massive floor-to-ceiling windows with a stunning river view. The furnishings were luxurious but not overly extravagant-everything was just right.

"Staying here will be convenient." Daniel continued. "There's daily housekeeping, and you won't have to worry about anything.

"If you don't want to dine in the restaurant downstairs, you can have your meals delivered. The facilities here are complete, and you can enjoy entertainment or work out. Moreover, it's very private. No outsiders will disturb you, allowing you to focus on your exams."

Maisie turned to him with a sweet smile. "Why are you so considerate?"

Daniel felt a sense of triumph but was soon humbled by a single sentence from Maisie.

Chapter 1694

Chapter 1694

"Are you also this considerate with other women?"

Daniel looked alarmed. "Wh... What do you mean?"

Maisie pouted. "That female journalist... She didn't seem too friendly..."

Daniel was taken aback. Which female journalist was she talking about? There were several this morning, and he had been fully focused on Maisie. He had no time to pay attention to other women's expressions.

However, since his lady had spoken up, he had to clarify it. He couldn't bear an unjust accusation.

He forced a smile. "Maisie, there were so many people this morning, and I honestly didn't notice. I'm not sure which one you mean."

Maisie glanced at him. This mature man always carried an aura of composure and authority, but seeing him so flustered was rather amusing. Amanda had dampened her mood, but the vexation vanished upon seeing Daniel's response.

"It's Amanda," she said bluntly. "The one who left last."

"Oh..."

"Be honest now. Does she like you?"

"Huh?" Daniel was already starting to sweat on his forehead.

"Let me tell you, a woman's sixth sense is quite accurate! If she didn't like you, she wouldn't have given me that hostile look!"

Maisie pursed her lip and turned away from him.

Daniel paused for a moment, then chuckled secretly. He walked over to embrace her from behind and held her in his arms. She struggled a bit but then allowed him to hold her. He knew she was feeling jealous, and her jealous reaction was something he wanted to see and cherish the most.

"Well... You can't blame me just because I have charm. Don't put other people's likings on me, okay?"

"What are you saying?!"

Daniel laughed and held Maisie tightly.

Maisie blushed and nudged him with her elbow.

During their playful moment, Maisie slipped. Daniel failed to stabilize her, so both of them fell onto the large bed.

With Daniel on top of her, their eyes met, and it felt as if a fire was burning in the depths of her heart. Even the air seemed to heat up.

Daniel's gaze appeared as if he wanted to melt her, and his hand moved along her slender waist, inching toward that forbidden place.

"Is it alright?" he asked breathlessly.

Blushing, Maisie dared not look into his eyes and whispered, "But it's daytime."

He grinned. "It'll be nighttime when we finish."

"Daniel!"

Maisie was both embarrassed and shy, her face turning to the side and her heart pounding. Yet deep inside, there seemed to be a hidden sense of anticipation. This feeling was something she had never experienced while being with Graham. Maybe it was time for some things to happen...

Chapter 1695

Chapter 1695

Daniel eagerly unbuttoned his shirt, unveiling his muscular chest.

With her eyes shut, Maisie slowly lowered her hands that had initially pushed him away. She lay there tensely, anticipating the moment.

Daniel's kisses traced from her cheek down to her neck, heading lower...

He sensed her trembling breath, her body stiff with fear, and he felt that he consumed her heart. He was thrilled. This feeling was even more gratifying than the first time he had her. Just then, Maisie's phone suddenly rang.

Both of them were startled by this unexpected noise. The ringing persisted as if it was determined that she would answer.

Maisie opened her eyes, feeling somewhat disoriented. Daniel had lost interest as well and silently gestured for her to answer the call.

The caller ID displayed Cindy. Maisie felt awkward and adjusted her clothing before moving to the window to take the call.

"Mom, what's wrong?"

All she could hear on the other end was a torrent of tears and cries. "Maisie, why is our family so unlucky?"

"What happened, mom? Stop crying... Calm down. What's going on?"

It took a while for Cindy to regain her composure, all the while sniffling and crying. She finally spoke. "Our... Our home... won't be demolished."

"What?"

"The company in charge of the demolition changed the blueprints. They're only demolishing the surrounding shanty areas, but buildings like ours, they are... They seem to have historical value, so they won't be demolished. They're going to reinforce and renovate them instead!"

"Oh..." Maisie thought for a moment, then tried to console her, "Mom, I think this is actually a good thing. You won't have to spend any money, and they'll reinforce and renovate the house for you. Isn't that great? You won't need to move if it's not being demolished, right?"

"You're talking nonsense!" Cindy yelled from the other end. "If they don't demolish it, where will our big house and compensation come from? Do you know that old man Tom, who lived in the city's shanty area, got a brand-new apartment that's over a hundred square meters?!

"Your brother already has health problems, and he finally started dating a girl who was only willing to be with him because she thought we'd be compensated since our house would be demolished. Now it's a mess. That girl will definitely break up with your brother!

"Oh, that damned company! Changing the blueprints like this is just outrageous!"

Cindy kept on scolding. Despite the distance, Maisie could easily imagine her mother's outburst.

Maisie was quite helpless and put in a few comforting words before quickly hanging up. She turned back to Daniel with an embarrassed smile.

Daniel smiled back at her. What she didn't know was that the company her mother had just called "that damned company" was none other than the Quimby Group.

"Sorry for letting you hear that," Maisie said softly. "My mom, she..."

"Does your mom usually talk to you like this?"

Maisie lowered her head and remained silent.

Daniel felt bad for her and gently embraced her. He understood that Maisie was someone who valued family relationships. Although Cindy treated her this way, she still regarded her as her mother. Despite that, he wouldn't allow her family to hurt her endlessly and drag her down. Since Cindy was so selfish as to leave all her assets to her son, then their house wouldn't be demolished.

He didn't hesitate to spend a large sum of money to hire an architect to alter the blueprints, all to win justice for Maisie. At the same time, he sent professional PR personnel to appease the other residents of the apartment buildings and even provided compensation for them.

Chapter 1696

Chapter 1696

Cindy was the only exception.

"It's okay now," Daniel reassured Maisie, gently stroking her back as if comforting a child. "From now on, you can stay here and leave behind all your family worries. Focus on what you want to do."

"Mm."

"But..." Daniel hesitated, wanting to gauge her feelings. "Do you hope for your family's house to be demolished?"

Maisie paused and gently shook her head.

"Why?"

"It's not that I don't hope for it." She looked up at him and smiled. "I'm indifferent. Even if it's demolished, I won't receive any compensation, let alone the house.

"To be honest, my mom's actions have left me and Nicole quite disappointed. Aren't we her biological daughters? Why is she treating us this way?"

Daniel patted her head, unsure of how to console her. Since she felt indifferent about it, he would proceed with the changed blueprints. If she ever desired the demolition for her family's sake, he would change them back.

"I'll have dinner sent up to you later," Daniel said, putting on his coat and looking at her. "I need to handle some work at the office, so I won't be with you."

Maisie nodded, saw him off at the door, and watched him enter the elevator before slowly returning to her room.

She felt a little absent-minded and somewhat downcast. They had come so close, but it didn't happen.

Her cheeks turned a shade of red, and she quickly erased those erotic thoughts from her mind, focusing on her study materials.

From the moment Amanda entered this shanty area, her expression had been far from pleasant. She seemed to have forgotten what it was like when she used to endure the scorching sun and the rain, conditions far worse than this shanty area, during her days as a news reporter.

It appeared she had grown accustomed to comfortable days in a leadership position, and this kind of place no longer suited her.

She believed that sitting in Daniel's spacious and well-lit office, chatting with him over afternoon tea, was a true interview.

Amanda collected herself, struggling to walk in high heels through the dusty area. She found Maisie's home based on the address she had obtained. Before she could knock, she heard a woman cursing inside Every word and sentence was a complaint about life's unfairness, crude and vulgar, insulting to the ears of those listening.

Amanda sneered, thinking that this must be Maisie's mother, who only cared about money.

She knocked on the door. Before long, Cindy stuck her head out, scrutinizing her from head to toe, furrowing her brows as she asked, "Who are you looking for?"

"May I ask..." Amanda took precautions. "Is this the home of Ms. Cindy Leech?"

"Yes." Cindy was puzzled. "That's me. Who are you?"

Amanda revealed her identity directly. "I'm Amanda Winslade, Editor-in-Chief and Senior Reporter from the Cumulus Morning Post. Here's my identification."

Half-believing, Cindy took it and widened her eyes after reading. She welcomed Amanda in as if she were a VIP.

"Ms. Leech, you don't need to go to the trouble of hosting me." Amanda smiled. "I'm here today to investigate the demolition and reconstruction of this area. I heard that you haven't received any compensation?"

"Oh, our place isn't being demolished anymore, so there isn't compensation now!" Cindy pulled a long face at the mention of this subject. "The damned construction company changed the blueprints! The residents are all against it!"

Amanda thought quickly. "Ms. Leech, do you know that other residents actually don't oppose it?"

"What are you talking about?"

"That's because they've all received compensation," Amanda said. "Only you haven't!"

Chapter 1697

Chapter 1697

Cindy's anger flared up instantly. "What? What kind of company is this? Bullying others? Why are they targeting me?!"

Amanda swiftly achieved the desired effect. She smiled and glanced around, signaling that the hallway wasn't the best place for a heated conversation.

"Ms. Leech, would you mind if we step inside to talk?" Amanda asked.

Cindy wasted no time and ushered her inside. The place turned out to be even smaller and more cluttered than Amanda had expected. The furniture was worn, and the grease on the stove was revolting. Amanda instinctively frowned, surprised that Maisie had grown up in such a place.

"Miss, please have a seat," Cindy offered with a big smile as she poured a glass of water. "Let's talk."

Amanda got straight to the point. "Ms. Leech, the demolition company is indeed violating regulations. I've been investigating this."

Cindy, wiping away tears, nodded in agreement. "But now that things have come to this point, what can we ordinary folks do? We don't even know which door to knock on at that demolition company!" "But your daughter might," Amanda suggested.

"What are you saying?"

Amanda smiled mysteriously while her eyes filled with suspicion. Did this old lady not know that her daughter was involved with Daniel again?

"Ms. Leech, I won't beat around the bush," Amanda said in a low voice. "The one responsible for this demolition project is the Quimby Group... You should be familiar with that name, right?" Cindy was stunned and remained silent for a long time.

"Ms. Leech, from what I know, your daughter... Didn't she have a past with Daniel, the CEO of the Quimby Group?"

"No, no..." Cindy's face turned pale, and she vehemently denied it. "There was nothing, nothing at all!"

"Ma'am, don't deny it!" Amanda insisted. "Many people know about the history between Daniel and your daughter!" "You..." Cindy sprang up, staring at Amanda as if she had seen a ghost.

Since Maisie's accident, Daniel's name had become taboo in the Squires. Cindy, who had witnessed Maisie's tragic situation, had found the little maternal love left in her and dared not let Maisie get close to Daniel again.

She hoped Maisie could forget the past and find another wealthy man to continue her life. These past few days, she had been thinking of how to persuade Maisie to reconcile with Graham. However, someone had now come to tell her about knowing Daniel and Maisie's past...

Flustered, Cindy opened the door and pushed Amanda out, claiming to know nothing.

"Ma'am, think about it!" Cindy's reaction took Amanda aback. "It's just a matter of a few words from your daughter. Are you willing to let the compensation slip through your fingers?

"I'll continue to follow this matter. If you're really treated unfairly by the Quimby Group, the media will stand up for you! Ma'am, does your daughter still have contact with Mr. Quimby?"

"Get out!" Cindy abruptly opened the door and glared at her. "You journalists without a trace of conscience, my daughter has finally forgotten the past and started anew. What are you trying to do now?!" Amanda froze. 'So... Maisie has amnesia? No wonder she can still stand by Daniel's side as if nothing had happened!'

Chapter 1698

Chapter 1698

Amanda bit her lip as a thought suddenly crossed her mind. Would Maisie still be with Daniel if she knew why she had amnesia in the first place?

While lost in thought, Cindy closed the door with a loud bang.

Amanda gazed at the door with a mysterious smile, then turned to leave.

That night, Cindy couldn't sleep, tossing and turning in bed. Memories of the past events played in her mind like a movie. Despite treating her daughter as a source of money for all these years, guilt gripped he heart when she learned that Maisie had lost her child, suffered mentally, and couldn't even remember who Daniel was.

After all, she had raised Maisie for so many years. Even if one raised a cat or a dog, they would develop feelings for them....

In fact, when Amanda revealed that the Quimby Group managed the demolition project, Cindy was swayed. She considered convincing Maisie to seek Daniel's help, even if it meant sacrificing herself once again. In the end, her remaining maternal love overcame her extreme selfishness.

She wanted Maisie to find a wealthy man, but Daniel was not the only wealthy man in this world. She didn't want to throw Maisie into the fire pit again.

Cindy sighed deeply, her eyes welling up. Eventually, she fell into a restless sleep.

The next day, she headed to the Quimby Group. Before arriving, she called Daniel. She had saved that number for many years but had never dialed it and hadn't dared to. Daniel's office was spacious and grand. When the assistant ushered her in, it felt like entering a palace. The owner of this palace gazed at her with a cold, sharp look. "M-Mr. Quimby..." Cindy humbly bowed.

Daniel's expression remained calm as he set aside the documents in his hand. "What do you need?"

His imposing presence made Cindy tremble uncontrollably. After a brief silence, she mustered her courage and spoke tremblingly. "I... I came today to confirm if you are... with our Maisie again?" Daniel smiled faintly, tacitly confirming her statement. However, her visit today caught him off guard. He thought she had come to demand compensation for Maisie.

Cindy felt an urge to kneel before him. "Mr. Quimby, please have mercy on her... Maisie has suffered enough in the past. She's finally started anew. Will you—" "Have mercy?" Daniel's voice was frigid. "Are you even qualified to talk about having mercy? Have you ever shown any to her?"

"Well-"

"Your entire family has exploited her!"

Cindy's heart raced, and she remained frozen, unable to utter another word.

"I did mistreat her in the past, but where did that leave you?" Daniel glared at her. "I'm willing to do everything I can to make amends for her now.

"What about you? As a mother, have you ever considered what's best for your daughter? When you wanted to leave all your assets to your son, did you ever think about your daughter?" Cindy stood there, speechless and terrified.

"I'm targeting you regarding the demolition." Daniel lowered his voice. "But the change in the blueprint does save some cost. Money is not my concern. I just want to advocate for Maisie and teach you a lesson!"

Cindy now understood that she wouldn't receive compensation or a new house. She nodded and turned away dully, but Daniel stopped her.

"You came earlier than I expected," he said indifferently. "Not many people know that the Quimby Group is handling the demolition project, so... who leaked this information to you?"

Chapter 1699

Chapter 1699

Cindy couldn't bring herself to lie, so she gave Daniel a detailed account of Amanda's visit to her home.

Daniel frowned slightly, deep in thought. He remembered Amanda as a highly competent individual. When the Cumulus Morning Post was on the brink of bankruptcy due to poor management, she had managed to turn it around. The newspaper not only retained a spot in the top three in annual subscriptions but also produced insightful news reports.

Amanda excelled at building interpersonal relationships and had a strong reputation in the industry. Her close association with Leroy added to her credibility. Perhaps it was this high regard that got to her head. Daniel extinguished his cigarette with a cold snort and crushed it into the ashtray.

Several days later, he arranged another meeting with Leroy and Amanda at the same private club. This time, he arrived earlier than them.

Guided by his bodyguards, Leroy and Amanda navigated the maze-like corridors to reach the innermost room. The private room's door was slightly ajar, and Leroy cautiously peeked inside.

The table was already set with food, and Daniel was enjoying the meal. In front of him was a traditional bronze soup pot. The atmosphere seemed friendly but carried a hint of peculiarity.

Leroy hesitated momentarily, then furrowed his brows as he looked back at Amanda. However, she was rather excited, relishing the opportunity to interact with Daniel, especially in the absence of Maisie. "Hey, what are you doing?" Leroy stopped her, giving her a look and whispering, "This meal seems rather strange. He suddenly called us here, and I'm not sure why..."

"What's so strange about it?" Amanda glanced at him. "Maybe Mr. Quimby has something he needs the media's help with, which is why he called us over."

She said this out loud, but her thoughts were quite different. She had even brought a gift for Daniel-an exquisite mechanical watch. The watch was not cheap and was a couple's design, with the women's version adorning her wrist.

"Don't worry." Amanda chuckled. "Aren't you and Mr. Quimby good friends? It's normal for good friends to meet up for a meal!"

"You don't understand!" Leroy sighed.

Being friends with Daniel was like keeping a ticking time bomb. Moreover, a person like Daniel didn't truly have friends. People only associated with him because of the value he provided.

Leroy felt a bit anxious as he entered. Since he couldn't fathom Daniel's intentions, he would have to play it by ear.

"You've arrived!" Daniel looked up, smiling as he enjoyed his meal. "Have a seat! Heh, this beef and lamb were flown in this morning, and they're exceptionally fresh. Give them a try!" Amanda was about to pick up her utensils but was stopped by Leroy's stern gaze.

The atmosphere felt somewhat awkward, with the silent air almost echoing one's rapid, frantic heartbeat in the room.

Daniel scrutinized the faces of the two. Although he appeared to be smiling, the chill in his gaze made it feel like an icy tundra. "What's the matter?" he asked. "Are you two not feeling well? Should I instruct the kitchen to change a few dishes for you?" "No need, Mr. Quimby!" Leroy replied and quickly stood up, downing his wine.

Daniel smiled, his gaze knowing as he watched Leroy.

Amanda couldn't discern his intentions and was continually trying to intervene. "Leroy, you're allergic to wine, right?"

"That's right," Daniel said casually. "Ms. Winslade is right. When the two of us ate together in the past, you didn't drink wine."

"It's different today," Leroy said with a wry smile. "Mr. Quimby, please, if you have something to say, feel free to say it. If I've made mistakes, I'll definitely correct them!"

Chapter 1700

Chapter 1700

Daniel fell silent, then gently placed his cutlery down. Every move radiated authority, allowing no offense.

"I know both of you are media figures. A few words or articles from you can damage someone's reputation. But I'm used to getting my way!"

Daniel's voice was low, yet each word held weight. His gaze was equally sharp. "I'm not afraid of what anyone might say, but if anyone dares to harm my people, I won't hesitate to make their life miserable. "Leroy, you know me, right?"

Daniel patted Leroy's shoulder, nearly making the seasoned journalist tumble from his chair.

Leroy stood with a pale face, his voice trembling. "I'm not sure where I've upset you, Mr. Quimby... Please, tell me!"

Amanda couldn't relax either.

"Yes, Mr. Quimby." She quickly took out a watch and opened the box, placing it before Daniel. "This is a small gift from me. You've been friends with Leroy for years, so why can't we be straightforward? Besides... a word from you, and even I am ready to do anything for you!"

"Is that so?" Daniel raised an eyebrow.

He glanced at the watch on the table, an expensive item. What bothered him was that Amanda had a similar one on her wrist, which repulsed him.

He controlled his anger, picked up the watch, and tossed it into the soup pot without a word!

Hot soup splattered everywhere, and sparks flew from the stove beneath.

Amanda cried out in shock, instinctively shielding her face, while Leroy sat in horror.

Daniel looked at Amanda, almost smiling, but not quite, as he said, "Retrieve it."

"What?"

"Do I need to repeat myself?"

Amanda turned pale and nearly collapsed into her chair.

"Don't you recall saying you'd do anything for me?"

"Mr. Quimby-"

Daniel said coldly, "You know very well what you've done. I don't need to remind you, do I?"

Leroy wiped the sweat from his brow and glanced at Amanda with disbelief but quickly grasped the situation.

She had probably harassed Maisie again!

Leroy glared at her, wishing he could toss her into the pot like Daniel had with the watch.

"Mr. Quimby, I-"

"I'll let it slide this time, given it's your first offense and you're Leroy's protege." Daniel looked at them. "But if this happens again, it won't be as simple as today. The Cumulus Morning Post, despite its influence, is just a newspaper agency, and Cumulus City has no shortage of those. Do you understand?"