Ch. 61..70

Chapter 61

Chapter 61

Cordelia stood where she was, frozen. She was shaking.

She only spat out two words after a long time. "No way."

Yelena's eyes dimmed.

Cordelia's eyes were sharp as she stared at her. "This is our house. It was dad who gave it to my mom! We've been living here for years. This is our home!"

"How dare you bring that up?" An evil smile flashed through Yelena's face. She yelled in her shrill voice. "Who is your shameless mother even? Do you think she's worthy of my dad giving her a house?

"He only allowed you to stay here temporarily out of pity! At the very least, your mother served my dad. A b*tch like you were born, but who is he even?"

Yelena criticized mercilessly while pointing at Carter. "What you think that a b*stard that came out of nowhere deserves to live in the Jenners' house!?"

Carter had a high ego. He was always embarrassed by the odd family relationship.

Yelena was poking his weak point, exploding the emotions that he had been holding back.

"What nonsense are you talking about!?"

He glared at her in rage. He clenched his fists, and his veins were bulging on his arms. He lifted his hand in an attempt to hit her.

Worried that he would be impulsive, Cordelia got up instantly to stop him.

Yelena was shocked before she took a few steps back. Realizing that it was impossible for Cordelia and Carter to hit her, she criticized them even more. "Tell me, what did I say that's not true? Your whole family is trash! All of you are despicable!"

"Enough, Yelena!"

"Yes, I said it. What are you going to do about it?" Yelena went forward to shove Cordelia. "Scram with your b*stard brother, b*tch!"

Cordelia blocked Yelena while protecting Carter.

However, Yelena was brutal. She scratched Cordelia's arm hard a few times, showing no mercy. There were trails of blood on the latter's fair skin.

She stepped back in pain. Reckless, she missed the steps and fell from the stairs!

At the critical moment, a force wrapped around her from behind. Stunned, she landed steadily in a firm embrace.

"Are you all right?" Marcus looked at her with concern.

The corner of Cordelia's lips twitched. Grievance, rage with a little panic, and all kinds of emotions surged in her eyes. She bit her lip lightly and did not know what to say. She held onto his neck like he was her savior and screamed while shaking. "Hubby..."

Marcus patted her shoulder and chuckled. His expression instantly changed. He glanced through everyone present coldly.

"What happened?"

It was Yelena's first time seeing him.

She dodged a bullet. She had almost married this thug!

However, she was taking a good look at him. This man was tall and handsome. He was filled with powerful charisma and masculinity. He was dignified, like an ancient king.

Yelena scoffed after a short pause.

So what if he was good-looking? He was put behind bars for fighting-he had nothing!

"Hey, so you're Marcus?" Yelena's stare was piercing. "Cordelia's useless husband?"

Marcus' face darkened.

"It's futile even if you're here." Yelena went on. "This is our family matter. My dad is taking the house back. I'm here to get them to move out today!"

"Move out?" Marcus scoffed. "What makes you think that you can do that?"

"For the fact that I'm my father's daughter." Yelena glared at him at the side of her eye. "I'm the first daughter of the Jenners!"

Cordelia felt her heart give a squeeze. She quickly went over to tuck at Marcus.

He turned his head to look at her. He was gentle and determined, with a faint smile at the corner of his lips.

Cordelia was stunned. She was so anxious that she was getting goosebumps.

The sensitive Yelena noticed that.

"Hah, what?" She raised her voice on purpose. "Marcus, you look like a dumb dumb. I guess you don't know the woman that you married?" "Yelena!" Cordelia could no longer hold back. She gave Yelena a murderous stare.

"What? You're silencing me? You've been pretending to be me for six months, my dear sister. You don't want your husband to know that?" "Shut your mouth!"

"She's the Jenners' illegitimate daughter!" Yelena felt proud. "Her mother is a shameless b*tch! She seduced my dad and gave birth to Cordelia, and then she went on to have another b*stard with another man! She's now mentally ill, being all delirious in the hospital!"

Cordelia covered her ears in despair. "Stop it!"

"Do you know why she married you? For the dowry, so that she could get money from my dad to fix her mom!"

"Yelena, you b*tch-"

Cordelia lost it and screamed.

She collapsed, her eyes red and face pale. At that moment, it felt as if she was stripped naked in a crowd. Yelena busted the secret she had hidden with so much effort just like that.

She felt pissed and ashamed. She charged and shoved Yelena.

The latter staggered and almost fell. In her rage, she grabbed a vase and threw it at Cordelia. "How dare you shove me, b*tch!?"

However, before the vase was thrown, someone grabbed hard on her wrist.

She felt as if her wrist was going to be crushed.

"W-What are you doing? Let me go!"

Marcus' cold eyes were murderous as if he wanted to cut her into pieces.

Chapter 62

Chapter 62

"Are you guys dead?" Yelena called out to the movers around. "Did I pay you to watch the show? Come help me!"

Marcus served a murderous look. The movers looked at each other, and none of them dared to go forward.

Yelena felt as if her heart was going to fall out of her chest. She stared fixedly at the man before her and felt a growing suppression. She was frozen.

"C-Cordelia!" She caved and shouted in fear, "Are you going to control your husband or not!? I-I tell you. If he dares to hurt me, I-I'm calling the police! I'll get them to arrest him and put him behind bars again!" Marcus exerted more force with his hand. The icy smile was scary.

Yelena screamed from the pain. Her knees felt weak, and she knelt on the ground.

"The Jenners' heiress calls someone a b*tch like she's breathing. Aren't you a little too mean?" Marcus scoffed and continued. "What? Are the Jenners so poor that they can't afford mouthwash?"

He threw her out as soon as he was done speaking. Yelena slammed hard against the wall!

Cordelia quickly grabbed him and shook her head.

Marcus took a deep breath in.

Usually, he would not hit women. It was Yelena who kept provoking him, forcing him to break his bottom line. He thought since he was taking action, he would go all out. He would not let this vicious woman go today.

However, Cordelia was grabbing hard onto his arm. The concern and begging in her eyes made him soft.

He knew that she was not begging for Yelena but for him.

She was worried that if she really hurt the latter, he would really be arrested and imprisoned again.

Marcus chuckled. He gave her a look, reassuring her that he had everything under control as he embraced her tiny body.

"Indeed, my wife didn't tell me who she is." He enunciated coldly. "But I don't care who she is. She's my wife, the woman that I'll protect with my life forever.

"Whoever dares to bully her will have to fight me first!"

Cordelia followed behind Marcus quietly as they returned to their home.

Yelena did not get her way. Taken aback by Marcus' power, she could only leave with her men. Marcus moved back the furniture that was thrown back one by one. He spent the entire afternoon recovering the house.

He did not let Cordelia lift a finger. He did all of the work.

She had tears rolling in her eyes. Upon recalling Yelena calling her out in front of Marcus and what he said, she was feeling all the emotions. Tears were pouring.

"What's wrong?" His low voice suddenly came. "Go in."

Cordelia's heart thumped. She did not want him to see that she was crying. She took out the keys with her head held low.

She rushed to help him change into his slippers as soon as she got into the house.

Subsequently, she went to the fridge to bring out the meat and vegetables before she could even have a sip of water. She then went into the kitchen and started to cook. Marcus watched his lady working hard. He suddenly felt a pang in his heart. He walked slowly to the kitchen and smiled at her. "It's late. Let's not cook. How about we eat out tonight?"

Cordelia's hands froze, and she looked at him in fear. She lowered her head instantly.

"I-I'll be done soon." Her voice was so soft that it was almost inaudible. "They're your favorite, definitely better than eating at a restaurant. Can you give me a minute?"

She thought something was off after saying that. She lifted her eye again to look at him. "Are you hungry? I'm sorry... that you worked the entire afternoon. Hmm, let's eat out if you want to! Should we go to the Regalia Hotel?"

Marcus stared at her for a long time. His lips moved as he said with a light chuckle. "The Regalia Hotel is expensive. Can you afford it?"

Chapter 63

Chapter 63

Cordelia suddenly stopped cutting the meat and bit her lip. A complicated expression flashed through her tiny, pretty face.

Her eyes turned red after falling into a moment of silence. Tears were pouring.

"I'm sorry... I've been deceiving you. I'm not Yelena, but Cordelia. I'm not the Jenners' heiress. I'm just a disgraceful illegitimate daughter. I'm poor...

"If you're mad, I'm willing to make it up to you. Name whatever you want. All I'm asking is not to be mad at my mom and Carter. They don't know that I married you. I..." "Whatever I want?" Smirking, Marcus walked to her.

"Huh?"

He was smiling with his eyes. He said with his voice deepened, "My compensation is expensive." Cordelia was scared but said with determination. "It's okay. Just tell me, and I'll definitely fulfill you." Marcus was intrigued. Suddenly, he embraced her slender waist while looking into her bright eyes.

In all seriousness, he enunciated each word. "I want you to compensate me forever."

Cordelia was stunned.

"What? Is forever too short?" He chuckled. "Then let's do that for all our lives to come."

She stared at him for a while. Like a burden being released, she finally smiled, leaned on him coquettishly, and hugged him tightly.

As usual, Marcus patted her head softly. There was a boundless softness in his deep voice. "I want you, not some Jenners' heiress. Also... I didn't come from a prestigious background. I think I hit the jackpot that you're not disgusted by me."

"You're my husband. Why would I be disgusted by you?"

"That's right." He looked at her with a smile. "You're my wife. Why would I be mad at you?"

Cordelia smiled from ear to ear. The two faint dimples contained all of the goodness in the world.

Marcus, on the other hand, looked a little dejected. The person who had been lying was him.

Cordelia put the meat and vegetables back in the fridge. Putting on a pretty dress and holding Marcus' hand, they headed out.

They arrived at the Regalia Hotel and sat at the table near the window again.

She ordered lobster risotto, but she ordered a big portion this time which was enough for the two of them.

"Order whatever you like!" She chuckled playfully. "I got a raise. I can afford to feed you with the commissions and rewards I got before!" Marcus scratched her nose. "I'll let you feed me, then."

"For sure!"

He chuckled and ordered two more dishes and a soup.

However, he asked the attendant to pack the food.

"Why did you do that?" Confused, Cordelia looked at him. "Is it not enough for you to eat here that you want more to go?"

"I ordered these for your mom." He put down the menu and looked at her quietly.

Cordelia's heart skipped a beat.

"I suppose she hasn't eaten yet. Let's eat quickly so that we can send her the food," he said softly. "She's my mom too. We'll take care of her together."

"Hubby..." She had a complicated feeling. She felt a lump in her throat and did not know what to say, so she gave him a smile.

"Thanks for your kindness, but I'll visit her myself. You should go ahead and go home."

Marcus' eyes dimmed. "What's wrong?"

Cordelia forced a smile. "My mom... She's scared of strangers. To be honest, she can't even recognize me sometimes. If you appear out of nowhere, I'm worried she might be triggered." "What's wrong with her?"

"Mental illness." Her voice was soft. "She hardly has a clear consciousness. She's delirious most of the time. Not only that, but her illness has caused many of her organs to fail. She almost lost her life once. "This is the reason I replaced Yelena to marry you." She bit her lip. "My dad said as long as I agreed to marry you, he'd give me a sum that's enough to treat my mom." Marcus frowned lightly. His eyes were dull.

As usual, Cordelia gave him more than half of the portion when the lobster risotto was served. She even placed the lobster that she carefully peeled onto his plate. She told her story as she ate with a spoon.

"I don't know much about my mom, but I heard from the previous maids at the Jenners in the past that she used to be a maid in the family too. One night, my dad went into her room when he was drunk. Then..."

Cordelia paused. Her heart ached when she talked about what her mother had gone through.

"From then on, she became unstable. She didn't even know that she was pregnant. It was the maids who noticed that. I was mature at that time, and it would have been risky to abort me, so she could only give birth to me.

"Later on, my dad got my mom and me to live here." Cordelia looked at Marcus. "Since I was young, I don't remember my dad visiting us often. Joanne, however, would always come and throw a fit. She said every terrible thing, making my mom's illness even worse.

"My mom never argued with anyone. She would hold everything in to the point that she was sick. IV drops and medicine sustain her life."

Cordelia sniffled, and her eyes dimmed.

Marcus held her hands. He frowned even more now.

"Then what about Carter?" He was confused. "What's the story behind it?"

Chapter 64

Chapter 64

Cordelia paused her speech, followed by a sigh.

"To be honest, I have no idea who Carter's dad is either. I only remembered that when I was seven, my mom went out after dollying up. She got the neighbor to watch me before leaving, and she was gone for a month.

"I thought she abandoned me. Just when I was in despair, she came back. She was as beautiful as she headed out, but there was no longer light in her eyes, l-like a zombie wandering the streets. She would not respond to me no matter what I said to her.

"Then she gave birth to Carter." Cordelia's voice was getting lower. "Dad flew into a rage and gave her a scolding. The day they fought, I saw her laughing at my dad. The peals of laughter were terrifying. I feel a chill running down my spine whenever I recall it.

"That day, dad left a check, and he never came back. We only had a rushed meeting before I got married." Cordelia scoffed and chuckled. "I guess he gave the check to cut ties with me and my mom." Marcus sat beside her, gently holding her skinny shoulders and pulling her into his embrace.

He was not in her life before, but he would not let her suffer anymore.

The people walking by were surprised to see Marcus sitting in Fredric's office. The latter was a famous attorney in Centrolis and Jangasas. Those who came to him were respected figures of the upper class. Meanwhile, Marcus was dressed casually in a baseball cap. Given his stern face and cold aura, people could not help but speculate about his identity.

"How did Mr. Constable get acquainted with such a person?"

"I heard he's been working on criminal cases... Is he a criminal who is here to stir trouble?"

Marcus peeped at the door. Those people scattered when they saw that.

Fredric walked fast. Footsteps were approaching from far.

He was stunned when he entered his office. He shut the door and blinds, serving a cup of the highest quality Darjeeling tea.

"I heard those people talking as I was making my way here," said Fredric while chuckling. "They told me there's a criminal in my office, asking me to watch out. Hah, Z, it seems like you're so much more superior than that Marcus. He's just a thug, while you exude the charisma of a criminal!"

Marcus lifted his eyes to look. He smirked.

"Dude, are you not done with your hidden identity?"

Marcus did not respond to that. Instead, he asked. "Have you taken any real estate cases before?"

Fredric frowned.

"Real estate company?"

"Private property."

"Hmm... I haven't." Fredric revealed an awkward smile. "I usually get my attorneys to take these small civil lawsuits."

"Hmm." Marcus nodded and tossed a document on his desk. "Take up more cases that you've never done for practice. It's helpful for your career."

"Huh?" Fredric was stunned. He flipped through the document quickly. His facial expression was changing as he checked.

He snapped his head up, locking eyes with Marcus, who had a cryptic expression.

He was rendered speechless.

He knew the latter would not come to his insignificant abode for nothing. After all, he came here for the sake of Cordelia.

"Z." Fredric chuckled awkwardly. "Don't tell me you want me to take this case for Cordelia? You know my principal when it comes to lawsuits. This is just..."

"That's all." Marcus was expressionless. "William Jenner gave this house to Cordelia and her mother. She has been living there since she was young. How can he take it back just like that?

"That doesn't make sense to me, at least!"

Marcus scoffed and flicked the cigarette butt hard. His eyes were turning grim.

"Z, this is the law. We don't talk sense here," Fredric explained patiently. "Yes, they've been living in the house for a long time, but Cordelia's mother isn't the property owner! It was William Jenner who bought the house. Of course, he can take it back whenever he wants!"

Marcus glared at him. Fredric licked his lips and remained silent.

The former took a sip of tea after a long time and scoffed. "Aren't you the high and mighty attorney? You're so good with your words, don't tell me you can't win a mere case?"

Fredric was not sure whether to laugh or cry.

Would he not be teased if an attorney at his level took up this case?

"Z." He could only take a step back. "How about this? I'll introduce the elite attorney in my firm to Cordelia. He's fantastic in civil lawsuits-"

"I don't want anyone else!" Marcus served a fierce look. "You'll take it!"

Fredric gulped.

He was forcing him against his will!

Marcus gave him an ultimatum. "I don't care what you do. Don't let William Jenner take the house!"

Fredric released a heavy sigh. He could only force a smile after a moment of silence. "I'll get someone to investigate, and I'll take the case myself. Happy?" Marcus smiled in satisfaction. Just when he was leaving, he suddenly paused.

"Oh, one more thing." He asked in his low voice, "Can you get a job suitable for me in Jangasas?"

Chapter 65

Chapter 65

Fredric looked troubled sitting in his office after seeing Marcus off.

Zephyr Hamerton was calm, decisive, and vigorous in everything he did. He had always lived like a cold-blooded animal.

Meanwhile, this Marcus, who forced him to represent Cordelia, did not behave like Mr. Z at all.

As an attorney, Frederic hoped that he would not be so emotional. After all, they would be separated in the future. How was it possible that the Hamertons of Centrolis would accept Cordelia? However, as his best friend...

He released a long sigh. In the end, he decided to check the document thoroughly.

He shared the result of his research with Marcus a few days later.

"From what I see, I'm sorry that these documents do not help Cordelia."

Marcus frowned hard.

"However..." Fredric coughed softly. "We can go from another angle."

"Go on."

"The community that Cordelia's mother is living in used to be a village. It was made into a residential area after the urban reform."

Marcus glanced at him. "So?"

"So, this house is a village property," Fredric explained. "Selling village property is prohibited."

"So William Jenner is going against the law by selling it?"

Fredric nodded with a smile and gave a thumbs up.

Marcus lifted his brow, and a grim look flashed through his eyes. A smirk appeared at the corner of his lips after falling into deep thought for a moment.

"Great." He looked at Fredric. "Let's start from there!"

"Um..." The latter looked troubled. His style had always been direct and straightforward. He had always despised the roundabout way of doing things. Let alone an insignificant case like this. It was like a children's fight.

"Z, this case isn't me at all!"

"So what's you? Transnational litigation and economic cases?" Marcus rolled his eyes at him.

"Mr. Constable, there's a great saying that goes, anyone who doesn't take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in large ones either!" Fredric stared at him, dumbfounded.

"If you reject small cases like this now, you're going to get rusty and won't get any big cases anymore!"

Fredric was rendered speechless. Marcus was lecturing him. It seemed like he would really do anything for Cordelia.

Marcus proceeded to ask, "I wonder what's important to William Jenner?"

Fredric thought about it before answering, "His pride."

"If the people in his circle find out that he goes against the law, will he still have his pride?"

Fredric forced a smile so hard that his eyes and nose were squeezed together.

"What do you want, Z?"

Marcus raised his brow. "We won't go to court if we get this old, cunning man to buy a house for Cordelia."

"Are you saying you want him to buy a house to shut your mouth?"

Marcus laughed. "That's right!"

Fredric suddenly felt his temples twitching.

"I'll leave it to you." Marcus patted his shoulder. "Remember, the house must be in a good location, have good ventilation, and be brightly lit. Most importantly, the deed must be in Cordelia's name. Got it?"

Fredrick was efficient and a master negotiator, so he settled the matter quickly.

It felt like a dream when Cordelia received the deed. She flipped through it over and over again. She felt as if she was waking up from a dream when she heard William telling her about the house on the phone flatly.

Her heart was pounding. She asked Marcus to pinch her.

He hugged her while smiling, whispering, "Don't worry. Your mom and brother have a roof above their heads now. I guess your dad came to his senses that he didn't want Yelena to bully you guys."

Cordelia was stunned.

However, from what she knew about William throughout the years, there was no "coming to his senses" to him.

"Hubby." She looked at him with confusion written in her eyes. "I don't think this is what my dad would do... Don't tell me you secretly got someone to do this?"

Chapter 66

Chapter 66

The corners of Marcus' lips twitched.

Cordelia looked at him in worry. She was worried that Marcus had gotten together with those dodgy inmates from the past and resorted to some dubious tricks to force William into buying this place for her. Even if they succeeded in coercing him for now, there would be endless troubles after this.

She honestly did not wish for Marcus to get into unnecessary trouble anymore.

"Are you worried about me?" Marcus' gaze was deep, but his smile was carefree. "Don't worry. It's completely legit. I promised you I wouldn't get into trouble, so I will keep my promise." "But someone like my father..."

"I got a lawyer," Marcus said nonchalantly. "I got to know him since... I was in jail. He often gives legal assistance to inmates. He is a nice guy and has helped me a lot after I've gotten out too."

"Oh, I see." Cordelia was finally relieved. "Then we should thank him properly! Why don't we invite him home for a meal?"

"No need for now. Mr. Constable is kind of busy. Next time when he's free."

Cordelia nodded and kept the property deed carefully.

Marcus hugged her from the back. He had not properly been intimate with her recently since he was occupied with his family affair. Now that the moon was hanging high in the sky with a cool breeze blowing in her sweet fragrance felt like a kitty pawing at his heart.

Marcus was enthralled, resting his chin on her shoulder as he left kisses all over her fair neck. Just when he was going a step further, Cordelia tugged him and turned to smile awkwardly at him.

"Don't... It's not a good time today."

"What's not a good time?"

"Uh..." Cordelia blushed. "I have a stomachache."

The words felt like a bucket of cold water on Marcus. He slowly and reluctantly pulled his hand back with an expression that screamed sexual frustration.

Cordelia bit back a laugh and hooked her arms around his neck to peck his cheek. "Consider this your compensation, okay?"

"That's all?" He feigned seriousness. "It's too light. I don't see any sincerity."

"I'm afraid that you won't be able to control yourself if I'm too sincere. You'd be the one frustrated by then, right?"

Marcus looked up to meet her beautiful doe eyes shining slyly. She looked more endearing and playful than when she was usually quiet and docile. The little woman was like a thousand-faced lady who could bring him novelty each time, reeling him again and again.

In spite of it, he could only hold back his urge. Marcus let out a long sigh and lay on the bed, hugging her. He buried his face and rubbed it against her chest.

Cordelia giggled from the motion and ran her fingers through his hair, asking him to sleep earlier softly.

"Can't sleep." His voice was husky. "Why do you still have your period?"

"What's so strange about it?" Cordelia looked at him. "Once a month. Very punctual."

"I worked so hard last month. Shouldn't you already have a baby this month?"

Cordelia flushed. Her cheeks felt like they were burning.

"What are you talking about!?" She turned to face him with her back. "Getting pregnant is a matter of course."

"Mm, that's also true. Go with the flow..."

Marcus put his palm on her stomach, his serious expression amusing her.

"Honey." She asked him softly, "Do you really want a baby?"

"You don't?"

"Not for now."

Marcus furrowed his brows, but the frown quickly smoothed out.

Cordelia pouted and muttered to herself, "It's too expensive to raise a child nowadays. Not only do we have to give birth to them and raise them, but we also have to get them educated and plan for their future. I personally don't think I'm capable of affording it yet.

"Besides..." She turned to look at him, and a glint of shyness flashed in her eyes. "I want to spend a longer time with just you."

She looked down with a smile, her dimples evidence of how sweetly in love she was.

Marcus felt like something had knocked into his heart.

He used to live life carefully as it was filled with intangible dangers and risks. It was only now that he had Cordelia that he knew how pleasant sunlight could be in this world. She warmed his dark and cold heart. She was the one who took him into spring, where flowers blossomed.

If he returned to Centrolis, all these would vanish...

Marcus smiled and hugged her tighter as if he was afraid that she would run away.

"Don't worry. I won't let you shoulder the burden alone if we have a baby." He chuckled with a husky voice. "I found a job. I'll give the salary to you, and your burden will be lighter."

"What?" Cordelia widened her eyes, surprised and delighted. "You found a job? When?"

"Just two days ago." Marcus smiled. "I'm going to be a boxing instructor in a boxing gym. I'll join matches sometimes too. If I win, there'll be cash prizes."

Cordelia was dazed.

Being a boxing instructor was a decent job. He usually liked toying with weapons and often punched sandbags on the balcony too. With the muscles he gained, he seemed to fit the job quite nicely.

It was just that Cordelia was worried. This job was still risky. Getting injured would be common. She did not want him to work so hard. Moreover, many women liked signing up for self-defense lessons nowadays and could hardly move when they met muscular men. If...

She pursed her lips, suddenly inexplicably jealous.

"You can go out to work." She looked at Marcus. "But I have terms!"

"What?" Marcus paused, amused.

Had the world changed so much now that a man had to gain permission from a woman to go out and work?

Chapter 67

Chapter 67

Marcus squinted and adjusted to a comfortable position to look at her with a smile.

"First, you can't give yourself too much pressure. I'm not the kind of person who must get rich. It doesn't matter how much money you make as long as we make ends meet. What's important is that you're happy at work, understand?"

He nodded seriously.

"Second, don't do anything dangerous." Cordelia pressed her lips together. "I'm referring to your contests and stuff. Don't push yourself too much. We don't need those cash prizes! Anyway, I can only support you 100% with the premise that you're safe!

"Third..."

She looked up at him and said softly after stalling for some time, "If you have female students, you can't let them feel your muscles!"

Marcus failed to hold it in this time and burst out laughing.

Cordelia was red like an apple as she buried her head into his chest and punched him twice.

"I mean it!" She protested. "I'm a woman, so I know what the other women think! I... I forbid others from touching you anyway! Normal physical contact is fine but something that crosses the line like this... no way!

"If you don't agree, I won't let you go to work! Stay right here at home and don't go anywhere!"

Cordelia looked unusually adorable, trying to act fierce. Marcus was suddenly filled with affection for her. He hugged her tightly and promised seriously in a whisper next to her ear, "Okay. I'll listen to everything you say."

Cordelia finally relaxed. She grinned and fell asleep in his arms not too long later. She even had an interesting dream.

The next day, it was a weekend, so Cordelia went shopping, hooking arms with Marcus.

Marcus had never been interested in shopping, but the girl insisted on buying him fitted clothes. They shopped around for some time before finally deciding on a luxury brand of menswear. Cordelia pulled him there happily.

Even when Marcus kept emphasizing that his job was as a boxing instructor, Cordelia wanted him to try the tailor-made suit.

"Even if you're an instructor, you could use a suit too!" She looked at him seriously and chuckled, saying, "The suit looks nice, and it's free to try it on. Put it on for me!"

Unable to stop her from getting her way, Marcus could only go to the fitting room with the suit.

When he came out, Cordelia's eyes bulged. The man was always wearing T-shirts and jeans or sportswear. This was her first time seeing him dressed properly. She did not expect her husband to look so good in a suit!

Marcus was slightly over six feet. He was tall and well-built with almost perfect proportions. He was basically a walking mannequin. The suit looked like it was made for him as it accentuated his figure and made him look fine and handsome.

In addition to his manly features, Cordelia felt he was a hundred times better looking than the models in magazines!

She felt the suit and thought the fabric and workmanship were rather detailed. Marcus looked great in it too. However, when she saw the price tag, she felt her heart jolt. Nonetheless, she smiled at the sales assistant and told them she wanted the suit.

Her subtle change of expression did not escape Marcus' eyes. A rush of emotion came to him.

The suits he used to wear were limited haute couture from top international brands. The best designers personally measured and tailored the suits for him.

Thousand-dollar suits like this were basically cheap stuff to him.

He did not want Cordelia to spend unnecessarily, but he could not bear to pour the bucket of cold water on her seeing how bright her smile was. His gaze took on some warmth.

"Honey, do you like it?" Cordelia flew back to him after she paid, chattering, "You look so handsome in it! I know now. I'll get you shirts and a few nice long ties the next time I shop for you, then.....” Cordelia suddenly stopped talking and stayed rooted.

Chapter 68

Chapter 68

Marcus paused and followed her gaze.

Yelena had come to the same boutique somehow and was watching the two of them mockingly, occasionally scoffing.

Cordelia tugged Marcus to leave, but Yelena was faster in blocking their way.

"Oh, what a coincidence!" Yelena snorted. "Looks like you are having a good time at work. Gotten a promotion and a raise? That you could take my dear brother-in-law to a luxury boutique like this for shopping "Oh yeah, does the new place feel great to live in? Hah, please, have a good time living there. Dad spent a lot of effort picking it out!"

Cordelia could recognize the sarcasm in her words. When she looked up at Yelena, the hatred in the latter's eyes was like she wanted to rip her apart.

"Yeah, Mr. Father-in-law is pretty nice to us." Marcus smiled and put Cordelia behind him. "Not only did he choose a good place, but the property deed also has Cordelia's name! As for someone else, she probably has to look for a new place as her studio. One can't possibly carry the charge of intruding on private property at this young age, right?"

"You" Yelena glared at him.

Marcus looked indifferent, completely disregarding her.

"Don't feel too triumphant!" Yelena gritted her teeth. "It's just a cheap house! Consider it charity from the Jenners to shoo beggars away!"

"It'd be best if Ms. Jenner thought that!"

Marcus was disdainful of getting petty with her. He was going to leave with an arm around Cordelia's shoulders when he heard Yelena yell, "Cordelia, stop right there!"

Cordelia turned around and looked at her after taking a deep breath.

"I've been negotiating a project with your company recently."

Cordelia's expression took a change.

Yelena smiled and continued. "I'm on the guest list for your company event this weekend. Don't be awkward when we meet then!"

Cordelia replied calmly, "I'm paid to work in the company. There's nothing awkward about it. If your project requires my help, you can come to me too, as long as you don't feel awkward."

"Bring your husband too." Yelena mocked, "Show your coworkers and guests what man you got married to that you're treasuring him like a gem!"

When Yelena said that, she had not expected Cordelia to actually attend the event with Marcus.

Cordelia wore a cream-yellow dress with thin strapped heels. Each smile and movement was captivatingly gorgeous. Marcus, who was next to her, was tall and straight. His presence was barely ignorable. He was wearing the suit they picked out at the boutique the other day.

"Hey, he's so handsome!" someone commented softly. "Didn't people say Cordelia got married to a thug who only knows how to fight? Have you met such a handsome thug?"

"When they stand together, those who didn't know better would've thought some CEO that's attending the event with his wife!"

Yelena gripped her champagne flute tighter as the corner of her lips twitched.

Cordelia stayed beside Marcus with a warm and pure smile. The limelight of the event was basically focused on them. She was a little nervous, but because she was holding Marcus' hand, the warmth of his palm calmed her down, and she was at ease among the guests.

"See, I'm not wrong to have brought you here!" Cordelia said with a soft chuckle, "My coworkers are all complimenting you!"

Marcus looked at her with a smile.

"I might not be able to keep you company later." She was apologetic and pointed to show him. "Over there, Ms. Cloud from the Morn-Glo Group, the one who was allergic to peanuts the other time... There, Mr. Oliver Jones from the Star Group. They're all my clients. I have to go greet them. Can you stay here and have something on your own?"

"Mm, I can..." Marcus teased her on purpose, "But you've seen your female coworkers who called me handsome just now. They're staring at me like starved wolves. Aren't you worried about leaving me alone here?"

"You" Cordelia glared at him.

Marcus grinned and swiped at her nose before pressing a kiss on her forehead.

"Go ahead with your socializing. I'll wait for you here, with absolute obedience to morals!"

Cordelia beamed and took a glass of wine, going toward her clients. Just as she stepped away, though, she heard a shrill voice from behind her. "Handsome, are you alone?"

Chapter 69

Chapter 69

Cordelia's ears perked up, and her guard was immediately up as well. She looked back and saw a woman who was dressed with thick makeup smile flirtatiously at Marcus. Her glass shook slightly in her hand, and when she went closer to Marcus, she pulled the slit of her dress to show her fair legs.

Cordelia suddenly found the voice to be familiar.

"Giselle?" She paused. It seemed that Yelena brought along her best friend wherever she went.

When they were in school last time, Giselle Lawler would often bully Cordelia with Yelena. The school later dismissed her due to her poor grades and frequent reports of being found smoking in clubs. The comments about Giselle in the high society of Jangasas were not great either. She was only able to act brazenly because of Yelena's support.

Cordelia was annoyed. She forgot about networking with her clients and walked briskly to Marcus in her heels.

"Handsome, isn't it boring to drink alone?" Giselle approached Marcus swaying her hips. "Why don't we="

"Why don't the two of us have a drink?" A cold voice rang suddenly.

Giselle was shocked, looking up to meet Cordelia's sharp eyes.

Marcus was also stunned before he smiled in amusement. Cordelia put him behind her, met Giselle's provocative gaze, and scoffed, "Why? Don't you know me anymore? You snatched my homework to copy it when we were in school, and now you want to snatch my man?"

"Well, who else if it isn't Cordelia!" Giselle chuckled. "What are you saying? I want to get to know this handsome man, and I'm snatching your man? You weren't standing here just now. How would I know of your relationship?"

"You know now, right?" Cordelia stared at her. "Leave now that you know!"

Marcus held Cordelia's waist without a sound. He noticed the woman's tightly clenched fists and her shaking body out of anger. Yet, she was determined with an aggressive gaze, like she would kill whoever dared hit on her man.

He chuckled inwardly, not expecting himself to hide behind a woman one day. It was a feeling he liked, though.

"Oh, I remember! This is the thug you married?" Giselle scanned Marcus blatantly. "I heard that he's always causing trouble fighting and even gone to jail!"

Cordelia rolled her eyes and hooked arms with Marcus to leave.

Despite that, Giselle went up and hooked Marcus' other arm. Her gaze was seductive. "Handsome, do you know that Cordelia's an illegitimate daughter of the Jenners? No one in the Jenners likes her, and she's broke. She used to stay in the basement and smelled musty!

"Why don't you come with me?" Giselle's fingers climbed up. "I'm rich and hot. There are a lot of guys after me! It'd be a waste of your face to be together with Cordelia-"

"Enough!" Cordelia shoved her away.

Giselle stumbled and nearly knocked a table over. The noise caused everyone nearby to look over.

"Giselle, have some shame!" Cordelia said through her gritted teeth, "Are all the men dead that you have to flirt with my husband!?"

Murmurs of comments broke out from the surroundings while some people's mocking gazes felt like sharp knives that were slowly slicing up Cordelia's pride. Even when she felt that she was not wrong, her husband being hit on was nothing to be proud of. She did not want to fight for her man like a frenzied woman in public either.

She dipped her head and bit her lips.

Chapter 70

Chapter 70

Cordelia assumed that Marcus would hug her and keep her in his warm and secure embrace, but seconds ticked by, and she did not get the sense of security she anticipated. She widened her eyes when she saw Marcus actually approaching Giselle and extending a hand!

Cordelia's heart thumped, and all her blood seemed to be rushing to her head.

"See? Men are realistic too." Someone snickered. "Ms. Lawler doesn't have a good reputation, but she's a real heiress. How could Cordelia compare to her?"

"Sigh, her own husband's helping another woman in public... Cordelia's so pitiful. She treasures the man so much, but now..."

"That's why you can't dote on men!"

Cordelia's mind went blank as she stood frozen, feeling a pang in her heart.

"Honey, you-"

"Darling, you nearly injured Ms. Lawler." Marcus smiled and turned to Giselle. "Are you okay?"

Surprised at the affection, Giselle quickly caught Marcus' hand.

"Of course, I'm fine now with your concern!" Giselle smiled widely. "Handsome, let's dance? I could tell you're good with women once I held your hand..." "Marcus!" Cordelia bit her lips with tears welling in her eyes.

Marcus still looked nonchalant. He did not push Giselle away but held her hand tighter.

Giselle raised a brow, her gaze at Cordelia even more brazen.

"Ms. Lawler, you like my hand a lot?" Marcus' voice was deep and husky.

Giselle was long captivated. "Of course!"

"Even when this hand has killed someone?"

Giselle jolted and looked appalled, fear flowing from her eyes.

Marcus' eyes flashed darkly as he sneered. "An oblivious woman used to approach me in the past, and I used this hand to choke her to death!"

"You-"

Giselle wanted to pry her hand off, but Marcus gripped her wrist tight. The man's commanding expression and aggressiveness made her panic. Marcus asked with a smile, "Ms. Lawler, didn't you want to dance with me?"

Giselle deflated. The pain that came from her wrist made her turn pale while her teeth clattered.

Marcus reeled in his smile. His expression sobered up, and he felt like a reaper from hell.

When he let go lightly, Giselle stumbled back and hit the corner of a table.

The entire hall felt like the pressure was lowered. No one dared breathe any louder. Cordelia walked over and tidied Marcus' tie and suit.

She looked up and broke into a smile.

Giselle's legs felt like jelly. She could only stand holding on to the table. She glared at Marcus and Cordelia, gritting her teeth and saying shakily, "W-What's... so good about this? Cordelia, you married a killer! Be careful when you sleep at night. Who knows if he has a knife hidden!?"

"Yeah, my husband has a knife kept under his pillow," Cordelia snorted. "But it's not for me. It's for those shameless women who keep throwing themselves at him!"

Marcus smiled and was about to stroke Cordelia's face when he remembered that Giselle had held his hand. He asked for the server and wiped his hand with a disinfecting towel before throwing it into the trash

can.