Ch. 1791..1800

Chapter 1791

Chapter 1791

"No need!" Maisie tilted her head and pouted. "Don't you hate people interfering with your things?"

"That was in the past," Daniel's voice was deep. His hand was playful as he pinched her earlobe softly. The subtle pinch made her heart skip a beat. Leaning in, he whispered in her ear with warm breath, "You'll have to participate in everything about me from now on!"

She looked at him, cheeks burning, looked down, and chuckled.

Outside, it was sunny. A breeze blew, and the soft sunlight seemed to make its way into the car.

Maisie went to the office to submit an outline to Lily, the mission she was given.

Lily remarked, "I think the script you wrote is good. The company is thinking of diversifying. Would you like to try being a screenwriter?"

She had worked for a few days and submitted the script outline. Lily smiled in satisfaction while reading it.

"Your writing is good, and the story flows," she marked it with a pencil. "There are things to note... Go slightly faster. The main plot will be diluted if it's too slow. Write the first five scenes. Show it to me, and we'll discuss it then."

Maisie looked at her in disbelief. "Do you really think I can do it?"

"Why not?" Lily poured her a cup of coffee, wearing a smile. "I didn't give you anything too big. Just write a short story. The investment is low, and there's no need for famous actors. It'll have great feedback if we upload this on social media platforms."

"Okay, got it."

"We have professional screenwriters in the company. You can learn from them," Lily whispered, "I pay them handsomely! It's our big investor Daniel's money!"

Maisie laughed out loud.

"You take one sip at a time. It works the same for your career, too." Lily patted her shoulder. "I go all in when I work, but I'm realistic too. Me getting you to try would prove that you're good with your writing." Maisie smiled and looked at her quietly.

That was the thing she admired about Lily the most. She was realistic but not shameless. She was rational but not snobbish. Feeling uneasy from her stare, Lily asked, "Why are you smiling like that? Also... Why are you looking at me that way?" Maisie smiled, even happier now.

"Hey, little lady, don't fall in love with me. Daniel will kill me!"

"What are you talking about?" She pursed her lips. "I just thought I'm so lucky to meet a boss like you."

Lily raised her eyebrows. "I'm only your boss?"

"You're my friend too!" Maisie hugged her.

Lily pretended she was disgusted and struggled to get away from her but failed.

While they were playing like kids, Rachael came in and was stunned to see that. "What's wrong?" Lily did not mind. "Anything?"

"Oh!" Rachael snapped back to her senses. "Mr. Harvey is here. He brought his work."

Maisie smiled in embarrassment. She turned around to leave, but Lily called out to her, "Wait!"

Chapter 1792

Chapter 1792

"What?"

Lily eagerly shared her plan with Maisie, "Harvey is an illustrator. I'm planning to create an illustrated version of your book since it's trendy. We'll market it immediately and earn more money!"

Lily continued. "I think he has a great style. I'm considering having him illustrate all our books. Take a look at his work and have a conversation with him."

Maisie hesitated and said, "Um..."

Lily quickly discerned the issue. "What? Are you worried about upsetting Daniel?"

Maisie smiled awkwardly.

Lily reassured her, "It's just a job. Don't worry about him. You'll only communicate with Harvey during working hours. You'll go home on your own, right? If you still have concerns..." She glanced around and whispered, "I'll be with you guys during work. With me around, there's nothing Daniel can say!"

Rachael entered with Harvey.

He greeted them with a polite smile and called out to Lily enthusiastically.

Then he turned to Maisie, saying, "I've met you before, at the tea party and hospital. Something odd happened on both occasions. I'm happy to properly meet you today, Maisie." Lily teased him, "Mm-hmm, take a good look at her!"

He smiled. "Lily, the saying, 'There are no weak troops under a strong general', applies perfectly to you! You're charismatic, and your writers are beautiful. Are you trying to outshine other publishing companies?"

A charming man's sweet words were always captivating, especially when he was as good-looking as Harvey.

Maisie chuckled, looking down. If someone else said it, it might seem clichéd, but coming from him, it worked.

Harvey approached Maisie with her book in his hands.

She was surprised when he showed her his drawing book.

The drawings were beautiful, with muted colors and smooth touches-exactly her preferred style.

"I've read your book," he said. "I designed these scenes following your book. What do you think? I can make edits if needed."

Lily added, "I also contacted another illustrator, Toph Hamerton, from Centrolis. He did a test drawing for a few chapters. You can compare to see which one you prefer."

Maisie recalled that the second heir of the Hamertons was also an outstanding artist. Perhaps he excelled in techniques, but she preferred the warmth in Harvey's drawings. It suited her style. "Choose wisely, Maisie." Harvey's smile was carefree.

Leaning on the table, he softly blew his fringe, almost covering his eyes. "Lily, you better choose carefully too. Toph charges more than I do!"

"You cheeky kid!" Lily joked, "Do you think your rates are low?"

He smirked and looked at Maisie. "I'm a sensitive person. If someone appreciates my work, I'll do a great job even if I don't make much money. Money isn't everything!"

Lily smiled. Just then, a woman entered.

Maisie was surprised. The sound of her heels echoed loudly, and her perfume was overpowering.

The woman wore a royal blue suit, exuding overbearingness and contempt.

However, Harvey's expression soured when he saw her.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Reyes," she apologized. "Did Harvey cause trouble again? What nonsense is he spouting now?"

Chapter 1793

Chapter 1793

The woman chuckled. "Ms. Reyes, I'm sure you remember me. We met at a work dinner. I'm Harvey's sister, Jodie Newhouse."

Lily was stunned but greeted her with a smile, "Oh... So it's Ms. Newhouse. I remember you."

"Did my brother have an outburst again?" Jodie asked.

"What?"

Lily and Maisie exchanged glances, uncertainty written on their faces.

The moment Harvey locked eyes with Jodie upon entering, Maisie noticed the upbeat man's face turn grim as he clenched his fists. Soon, he released his fists.

Just as Lily was about to ask about the situation, she noticed a few medical staff following behind Jodie.

Even more confused, Lily asked, "Ms. Jodie, what's this?"

"Go away!" Harvey erupted suddenly, shouting and throwing his drawing book at them. "Get out! Get the hell out-"

"Don't do this, Harvey!" Jodie said.

Jodie signaled the doctors, and they swiftly moved forward to restrain him.

He struggled vehemently but was outnumbered, held like a fish on a chopping board. A madness-tinged shriek escaped him. Chaos erupted in the office.

Lily and Maisie stepped back in shock.

One of the doctors swiftly took out a syringe, rolled up his sleeves, and injected his vein.

"Ahh!" he shrieked.

Maisie shuddered, recalling her past. She also had been mad like that before, injected with a tranquilizer while being restrained.

Lily thundered, "Ms. Newhouse, this is my office! What are you doing? Go home if you want to teach your brother a lesson!"

"I'm so sorry, Ms. Reyes." Jodie looked at her, remaining courteous and respectful. "My brother is still in treatment. He can't sign with your company to be your illustrator. Please forgive him!" "What did you say? What treatment are you talking about?"

"You've witnessed it yourself. He's-"

"Jodie!" The exhausted Harvey used all his strength to speak fiercely, "You lunatic, you're out of your mind! You...

"Lily, save me! I'm not crazy! I-"

Perhaps the drug took effect before he finished speaking. He shut his eyes and fainted.

The chaos finally quieted down.

The medical staff took him out, leaving the office in disarray.

Jodie apologized again, bowing deeply before leaving. "I'm deeply sorry about the trouble we brought, Ms. Reyes. I'll get someone to clean up."

Lily frowned, glancing at her with disdain.

Meanwhile, Maisie felt a chill in her limbs.

"Maisie?" Lily noticed her paleness. "Are you okay? You don't look very good..."

Chapter 1794

Chapter 1794

"I'm okay." Maisie's voice was weak.

Lily beckoned Rachael over, urging her to escort Maisie to the meeting room for some much-needed rest. To be safe, she discreetly contacted Daniel, enlisting him to come and pick her up. Upon hearing the surprising turn of events, Daniel headed to the company to collect Maisie.

Once Maisie was comfortably settled, he thought for a moment before calling Toph.

"Uncle?" Toph's cheerful voice resonated, accompanied by the sound of his vibrant laughter. "Miss me? Hold on, I'm in the middle of drawing... The signal's a bit dodgy here. Let me find a better spot!" After some rustling noise, Toph returned with a smile, saying, "Found a good spot, uncle. We're good to chat now! What can I do for you?"

"Hmm..." Daniel pondered. "Did Sephy grow taller? I've been away from Centrolis for so long, and I miss that little girl."

"Did you get it mixed up? I'm her uncle, not her dad! You should ask my brother about her!"

"Oh..." Daniel paused. "How about my sister and brother-in-law? Are they doing well?"

"Aunt Linda and Uncle Nicholas?" Toph sounded puzzled. "Why not just give them a call and ask yourself?"

"I..." He grinned, feeling a tad annoyed at beating around the bush.

He then chose a direct approach. "Toph, I called to talk to you."

"That's more like it!" Toph chuckled. "What's up?"

"I have a question about someone..." He asked, "As an artist, do you know someone named Harvey Newhouse?"

"He's from Cumulus City." Toph seemed unsure whether to laugh or sigh. "What's gotten into you today, uncle? The Newhouse family is pretty renowned there. You should know him better than I do!" While Daniel was familiar with the family's public image, he remained oblivious to the currents beneath their seemingly calm exterior.

He always considered Harvey as the family's pampered son and believed he was the indispensable right-hand man, the family's master. It never occurred to him that something like this was happening within the family.

Taking a deep breath, he spoke. "I'm sure Lily informed you about Maisie's book. She's releasing a comic version, and you're in the running for the illustration gig, alongside Harvey."

"Yeah, that's right," Toph confirmed. "But my chances are slim. My previous work mostly leaned toward fantasy, not really in sync with Maisie's novel."

"Oh?" Daniel asked, "Does Harvey's style match? What's his style?"

Toph was direct. "He's quite a hit in the industry. His style is unique, a bit schizophrenic."

Perplexed, Daniel asked, "What do you mean?"

Toph chuckled. "His drawings sometimes come to life, featuring beautiful lines and colors. They showcase the happiest side of him. Yet, they turn terrifyingly grim at times, like being thrust into hell. It sends shivers down your spine. Hence, people in the industry label him as schizophrenic.

"But the line between genius and lunacy is often thin. The more a person is like that, the more artistic they tend to be."

Daniel squinted, sensing an odd feeling.

After a pause, he asked, "Would you believe it if he's genuinely a lunatic?"

"Why not?" Toph responded casually. "He's been hospitalized in the psychiatry ward before."

"What?!" Daniel exclaimed.

"I came across it in an artist group discussion. They were talking about his condition. Also, he has a caring sister who brings in doctors whenever his illness resurfaces.

"Of course, I only read about it in their discussion. I can't vouch for its truth! Nevertheless, many things about him are legendary in the industry!"

Chapter 1795

Chapter 1795

"Oh, really?"

Daniel found himself increasingly intrigued by Harvey, especially after conversing with Toph.

In his normal state, Daniel perceived Harvey as an ordinary man. However, when triggered, he transformed into the chaotic force that Lily had vividly described a person capable of turning the entire office upside down.

Yet, the mystery lingered. Why did Harvey get triggered in the first place?

Concerns arose about Harvey's well-being. Was anyone at home aware of his illness? And what about his sister?

Toph had mentioned that she would arrive promptly with doctors whenever Harvey experienced an outburst. Daniel pondered, pursing his lips involuntarily.

"Uncle?" Toph's repeated calls snapped him back to reality. "Is there anything else you'd like to talk about?"

"No," he replied. "Say hi to your parents for me. Also... I hope to see you in Cumulus City soon."

Amused, Toph replied, "Haha, are you referring to the book? I'm afraid I'm not as skilled as Harvey!"

"You're pretty good." Daniel chuckled. "When there's a will, there is a way. I have a feeling that we will meet in Cumulus City!"

At the Newhouse residence.

Although the room was bathed in sunlight, it felt chilly and inhospitable. Like white paint on a canvas, the sunlight failed to bring warmth.

Harvey sat nonchalantly, leaning on the wall, one leg crossed over the other. His smirk carried a hint of casual mockery. His attention shifted at the sound of the door opening, but he didn't bother to look. Jodie approached, her heels echoing in the vast, cold room.

She spoke with sisterly concern, squatting in front of him. "Harvey, it's time for your medicine."

He glanced at her, scoffed, and abruptly raised his hand, spilling the medicine.

Unfazed, Jodie stood up with a mocking smirk.

"Don't bother, Harvey," she said softly. "I'm handling the Newhouse Group now. Dad is retiring soon. To them, you're just... a sick man!"

He looked up and glared at her. "You know very well whether I'm sick or not."

She smiled. "We'll see about that."

Suddenly, he stood up, nearly toppling a cabinet in a dramatic fashion. His eyes were fierce, veins bulging as he clenched his fists. Prepared doctors lurked like hyenas, ready to restrain him.

A cryptic look filled Jodie's eyes. "I'm doing this for your own good, Harvey. What's the advantage of going against your sister? We're family!"

She bent down, smiling as if playing with a pet. "As long as you cooperate with me, we'll live a happy life like before. I guarantee your illness will improve."

"Get out!" Harvey bellowed, teeth clenched. "Who the hell wants to be your family? You psycho, you lunatic, you..."

He struggled to find more words.

Calling her a psycho was the worst insult he could muster.

Envy gripped him, wishing he could freely curse like thugs facing enemies. Alas, he was never taught to curse from a young age.

Chapter 1796

Chapter 1796

Nobody had taught Harvey to be wary of those closest to him.

Jodie grinned and departed, arranging for the doctors to clean up the mess.

As usual, Harvey fought with all his might, only to find himself restrained on the bed, tranquilizer coursing through his veins.

Before long, his eyes closed, and he drifted into a stupor.

During these episodes, fragments from his past would unfailingly flash in his mind.

From a young age, Harvey had unknowingly distanced himself from his sister. Perhaps it was his extroverted facade and cold inner world. Outwardly friendly, he kept his heart guarded.

His artistic expressions swung between two extremes, making him question if he might be schizophrenic. He had even consulted a doctor.

Little did he anticipate it would become Jodie's tool...

She had bribed the doctor, fabricating a report of his mental illness and successfully excluding him from the Newhouse Group's heirs.

A searing headache gripped him, images hazy and disjointed. The tranquilizer seemed to lose its effect after being administered so many times.

Each time, the pain intensified, and he pleaded, "Sister..."

Curled on the bed, he pulled at his hair. "Save me, save me..."

"You devil!" he erupted suddenly. "You're a devil-"

Daniel stood beneath Maisie's apartment, surveying the community.

The well-managed environment, centrally located and just a short walk from the publishing company, made it convenient.

Maisie had purchased the small residence with her royalty fees, adapting to the city's jungle law.

A bittersweet smile crossed Daniel's face-his little bunny had found her own way and no longer required his protection.

Did that imply he was now of no use to her?

Maisie descended the stairs as he pondered, and he was taken aback when he laid eyes on her.

"What..."

She didn't look well. Clad in a thin sweater, she appeared frail and pale.

He had fetched her from Lily's earlier, heading straight to the Quimby Group for work without exchanging words. He hadn't even had a chance to talk to her. Seeing her in that state, he hurried over, took off his jacket, and draped it over her. "Why didn't you wear warmer clothes?"

"I was bored at home, so I decided to take a stroll. I didn't plan to go too far, so..."

"Even though it's spring, evenings can be chilly. You need to take care of yourself!"

She looked at him and smiled.

It used to be her advising him like that. She used to be the one dressing him, like a wife urging him to drink less and avoid all-nighters...

The roles had reversed now. He found himself chasing after her.

"Why are you smiling?" He raised an eyebrow.

Maisie remained silent, inching closer to him.

The evening pulled their shadows along, elongating them on the street.

"Oh, I want to discuss something with you," he said. "I think you should have someone you know to do the illustrations for your book. What do you think?" "What?" Maisie was shocked. "Are you talking about Toph?"

"Is there anyone else more fitting for the role? He's skilled and has his own work. Plus, we know him well."

"But..." She hesitated before saying, "Daniel, I prefer Harvey's style."

Chapter 1797

Chapter 1797

Daniel stood in stunned silence. "Why?" he finally managed to ask.

Maisie pondered for a while before replying, "Because... I can't pinpoint it, but his style is impactful. I've examined Toph's test illustration. It's good, but it lacks the same impact.

"Do you know, Daniel? There are a couple of scenes Harvey drew that perfectly match what I imagined when I wrote! The figures, expressions, and movements are exactly as I picture them. Isn't that magical?' Daniel couldn't decipher his emotions. He believed he had the strongest connection with her in this world.

Sensing his mood, Maisie softly grabbed his arm and leaned on him playfully.

"But you're the most magical one," she said gently, "You lost me and found me again. And I willingly came back to you. Isn't that magical?"

His heart jolted, and he detected a warm fragrance on her.

Unable to resist, he smirked, proud but not letting it get to his head. He suppressed the urge to hug and kiss her, opting to gently caress her cheek.

"Yes, it's magical," he whispered. "Will there be more... miracles between us?"

"What?" she asked.

He hesitated, leaning close to her ear. "Such as... having a child..."

Her cheeks flushed, her heart racing. She let him go and walked ahead.

He followed with a smile, ready to show a face filled with love whenever she turned to look at him.

As promised, he would be there every time she turned her head.

Lily looked concerned while examining the illustrations in the office. Although she was pleased with Harvey's submitted draft, the unexpected revelation about his condition from Jodie, who had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, left Lily uncertain about signing him.

At that moment, Rachael walked in, her own worried expression mirroring Lily's concern.

Lily greeted her with a smile, seeking her opinion. The two had developed a strong bond over the years, transcending the typical dynamics of boss and subordinate. They were more like sisters, discussing matters and overcoming challenges together.

This situation was no different.

"Rachael, do you think..."

Before Lily could finish, Rachael interjected, "Boss, are you sure you want to sign a mentally ill artist?"

Lily was taken aback.

After a thoughtful pause, she said, "Harvey's talent is impeccable. Most importantly, his style and Maisie's work are a match made in heaven!"

Chapter 1798

Chapter 1798

"Then there's no need to ask me." Rachael smiled. "You've already made up your mind."

"But I'd like to know what you think."

Rachael looked down, unusually quiet for the day.

"I'll share my concerns then," she said after a while. "Harvey comes from a prestigious background, after all. Even if he's mentally stable, we should get the family's consent before signing him." A strange expression lingered on her face. She hesitated.

Lily trusted her completely, always straightforward in their conversations. However, she failed to notice the subtle change in Rachael's expression.

Rachael continued. "No matter what, you can't just ignore everything else to get Maisie an illustrator."

"Huh?" Lily frowned. She didn't understand.

"Of course, I must get the best illustrator for my writer! Maisie's book is hot right now. We'll miss out if we don't seize this opportunity to publish the comic version. If it's a success, the company will make a big profit. I'm serious about this."

"Really?" Rachael pursed her lips. "Don't you think you're caring for her too much? You're taking care of her book and her life! Don't you think you've intervened too much between her and Daniel? Why did you

"She's naive and stubborn. She suffered because of him in the past, so it makes sense that I help her, right?" Lily was quite irritated. "I just can't stand a pure and kind girl being taken advantage of by a man. That's why I taught her to be independent!

Not only her, if you have a boyfriend one day, I'll do the same for you if you're being bullied! Of course, it's impossible that you'd be taken advantage of!"

Lily glanced at her. "You've been with me for so many years. You're more cautious than Maisie is."

Rachael chuckled, "So to you, I don't need any protection."

"What's wrong with you today?" Lily looked at her impatiently.

Rachael was irritated. It seemed the friendship they had built throughout the years had changed since Maisie joined the company.

Lily held the position of the company's boss, with Rachael as her second-in-command, managing everything on her behalf. Rachael believed she was Lily's right-hand person, an essential advisor.

Full support had been given to Lily when she expressed the desire to sign Maisie, and Rachael had discreetly shielded Maisie from Camila's scheming.

However, it seemed Lily was increasingly aligning with Maisie, especially evident in their camaraderie observed by Rachael in the office recently. Their closeness resembled that of sisters.

Rachael was concerned about her status and feared the ongoing situation might jeopardize her position.

Rachael took a deep breath, forcing a seemingly natural smile. "I apologize. Work has been stressful. Please forgive my thoughtless words."

Lily gazed at her, then broke the silence. "Take some days off if you're stressed. I'll extend your annual leave."

"It's alright," Rachael replied with a shake of her head. "Maisie's book revision is due. I can't leave you at such a crucial time. I'm fine! If you approve of Harvey's work, I'll discuss it with Ms. Newhouse again. We may need the guardian's agreement to sign a mentally ill man."

"Sure, go talk to her," Lily said wearily, massaging her temple. Work exhaustion weighed on her.

Lily softly added, "Rachael, if it doesn't work out, consider Toph the main illustrator. Daniel would likely prefer him for Maisie.

"Harvey is unstable, but he can bring inspiration. If they collaborate, magic might happen. Draft a collaboration agreement and expedite the process. We're already promoting the book. Any delay will result in losses!"

Chapter 1799

Chapter 1799

"Okay, got it," Rachael acknowledged Lily's words and promptly left her office.

A couple of days later, Daniel and Maisie headed to the airport.

Toph wasn't the sole person emerging from the VIP lane. Chris, Lena, Zuko, Lina, and Persephone trailed behind.

Passionate waves greeted them upon sight.

Filled with cheer, Persephone skipped along, almost throwing herself at Daniel!

The atmosphere was lively, and everyone was smiling happily.

Maisie, a bit surprised, returned the smiles as she greeted them. Among them, she only knew Persephone.

"Ms. Maisie!" Persephone hugged her, sweetly saying, "It's been ages since I last saw you. I don't want to go to school anymore!"

"She's not kidding," Lina added with a smile. "She kept asking for you for days after you left. Refused to go to school. It was quite a hassle!"

"She only listens to you." Zuko chuckled, carrying her. He pinched her nose. "I didn't deceive you, did I? Ms. Maisie really isn't in Centrolis. So, when we return, will you stop complaining and go to school like a good girl?"

"Hmm..." Persephone pouted. "Then I'm not going back. I'll go to school here!"

Laughter filled the air at her childish declaration.

Toph faked a cough, explaining to Maisie, "I came to Cumulus City for work, but these folks are here for vacation!"

"Didn't Arya come with you?"

"She's busy right now. She's taken a break from drawing." Toph smiled helplessly. "She's managing everything with the Bayers. I'm running the studio. Even though we're apart, we always discuss our work. I appreciate her support to come to Cumulus City!"

Maisie nodded, feeling a twinge of guilt for Arya because of Graham.

"Granduncle!" Although Zuko was carrying Persephone, she pinched Daniel's cheek mischievously. "I miss you too, granduncle!"

"Really?" Daniel's eyes reflected affection. "Then stay longer. I'll treat you like a princess!"

Blushing, Lina spoke with a smile, "Uncle, thank you for your time!"

"Stop it!" Daniel squinted at the group. "I'm older than all of you, but I feel like we're all the same age!"

"Please, uncle!" Toph teased. "You're over ten years older than Maisie, much older than my brother as well. You-"

"Oh my!" Chris playfully punched him mid-sentence.

Pretending to be mad, Daniel pursed his lips and stared at Toph.

"Don't worry, uncle," Chris reassured. "I'll teach him a lesson for you!"

Toph begged for mercy, apologizing profusely. "I'm sorry, okay! Save me, aunt... Save me!"

Amid laughter, Maisie blushed, and Daniel seized the opportunity to grab her hand.

After the joyful interaction, Daniel treated them to a meal at the Quimby Group's five-star hotel, a city landmark with a prime location.

The bustling scene in front of the hotel showcased its popularity.

Daniel arranged the best private room and served the most delicious food inside.

Toph indulged in the local cuisine, oblivious to his appearance.

Zuko and Lina attended to the princess while Chris and Lena exchanged food, radiating affection.

The family departed happily after a memorable time together.

Chapter 1800

Chapter 1800

It went without saying for Daniel-he was almost spoon-feeding Maisie.

Toph suddenly felt his meal wasn't appetizing anymore and slowed down his eating pace.

"Uncle Toph, what's wrong?" The kind-hearted Persephone placed the shrimp her father had peeled for her onto Toph's plate.

Toph smiled wryly. "Little princess, they're all in pairs, and it's just the two of us-"

Before he could finish, Persephone rejected him, "I don't want to be paired with you!"

"Oh, you little rascal..."

"You're too old!" Persephone retorted, scrunching up her face.

Daniel almost choked at those words. Everyone laughed except him. He merely repeated Toph's words, "You little rascal..."

Persephone ran to Maisie, asking cutely for cotton candy.

After getting her parents' permission, Maisie got up to find a server.

Unexpectedly, as she left the private room and entered the hotel corridor, she saw a sneaky figure darting from behind a pillar. Maisie paused. The person's back looked extremely familiar. Involuntarily, she followed and grew more surprised as she got closer.

"Mom?" she called out.

"Ah!" Cindy was so startled she almost jumped. She turned pale when she saw it was Maisie.

"Mom, what's wrong?" Maisie was puzzled. "You... You're discharged? I didn't arrange for that. Why are you here?"

"I-I..." Cindy stuttered, unable to answer.

She stared at Maisie for a while, then finally calmed down and aggressively retorted, "What's wrong with me being here? This is a hotel! Can't I come here for a meal? Besides, I... I'm hospitalized, not imprisoned! Can't I come out for a while?"

Maisie looked at her, bewildered.

"You!" Cindy's unreasonable tone rose higher as she scolded, hands on hips. "What are you doing here? To eat? Huh! It's with Daniel again, right? You ingrate! Got some money and now squandering it at this high-end place. Can't you save a little and help your brother? I've raised you for so many years, and you're just a money-losing investment!"

Maisie paled, biting her lip tightly. She shouldn't have called out to her!

It was strange. Every time Cindy saw her, there was an endless stream of insults. No matter what she did, Cindy would always find fault with her. Perhaps they were destined to clash as mother and daughter... Maisie took a deep breath, her voice slightly trembling. "I have something to do. I'll leave first. You should go back to the hospital. The specialists Daniel found for you are the best in the cardiology department. You need to cooperate with them for a faster recovery!"

"I know, I know. Do you need to nag? So annoying!" Cindy rolled her eyes while briskly walking away. Soon, she disappeared from Maisie's view.

Maisie felt a heavy weight in her heart, her earlier good mood gone.

She turned to go back to the private room but suddenly saw Jodie coming out from the same direction as Cindy! Jodie also saw her.

Both of them froze momentarily. Then, Jodie smiled and greeted her, "Ms. Squire? Hello, we met last time in Ms. Reyes' office."