Ch. 761..770

Chapter 761

Chapter 761

The result was out, and the child was not related to Noah as expected.

Zephyr's hand shook a little as he clutched the piece of paper. Although he was mentally prepared, he could not help his rage when he saw the result with his own eyes.

Although Liam doted on him when he was younger, the Hamertons fought and schemed against each other, so he had not received much warmth from there.

It was on his maternal grandfather's side that shone a ray of light on his cold childhood. Zephyr especially could not forget his uncle's affection for him. He would carry him on his shoulders, give him horsey rides, and take him fighting with wooden swords.

He was young and did not know how to hold back, always hitting and bruising his uncle, but the latter had never blamed him, merely grinning at him without much care.

Each time he returned to Centrolis from Chaiseland, he would cry and bawl about not wanting to leave his Uncle Noah...

Now, however, Zephyr would break his uncle's bubble with his own hand.

He took a deep breath and bit his lips.

Cordelia stayed close to him. "Zephyr, what do we do next?"

"Like what we've agreed on," he replied seriously. "This farce should come to an end."

Ava was hiding in Chuck's apartment when she received Trinity's call.

It had been days since she went out, and what was weird was that the Bakers had not sent anyone after her. Even Hannah's hospitalization was found out through their family servant. She had asked the servant not to disclose her whereabouts, but the servant answered weakly, "Miss, no one at home seems to be concerned."

Ava's heart dropped.

She was really redundant in the Bakers. For years, she did not manage to make her presence matter. Instead, others were disdainful toward her!

When thinking about that, resentment and grievance rushed into Ava.

She had to star in the movie and shoot to stardom! She wanted those who looked down on her to beg her on their knees!

"What's gotten into you?" Chuck came out lazily from the bathroom in a robe and saw Ava, distracted by the window.

She had been distracted in bed just now, making him lose interest and the mood that he could only end it hastily.

"You don't even know how to keep a man happy. All you know is being dazed here!" Chuck lit up a cigarette and plopped himself down on the couch. "You can't even compare to your mother!"

Ava turned back to look at him.

The man was vile and ugly. She was disgusted when she was with him, and it was already a favor to him that she could moan. What more did he want!?

However, Ava could only fume inwardly. She contemplated and went over to snuggle him, saying coyly, "Uncle Chuck, I haven't gone out for days and have been keeping you happy all day long... I'm just a little tired!"

Chuck snorted and pinched her chin. "So, you want to go out?"

"I..." Ava paused. "I want to act."

"Act what?" Chuck narrowed his eyes.

"Ms. Lulham's film! She called me again."

"Ms. Lulham? Trinity Lulham?" Chuck recalled that he had previously wanted to use her production to launder his money.

"Yeah! Ms. Lulham regards me highly and has been keeping the female lead role empty for me. She even asked me to attend the press release a week later!"

The more Chuck listened to it, the more he found it a trap.

How many awards had Trinity won, and what kind of award-winning actresses had she never met? Why would she have eyes on Ava, who was more like a wooden sculpture?

Using Ava as the female lead previously was because she came with funds. 15,000,000 in Eropah dollars was not a small sum. That was pulled out now!

Had Trinity lost her mind?

"Uncle Chuck!" Ava shook his arm coquettishly. "Let me act in it! This movie is really important to me. I'm aiming to win an award with it!"

"Well..." Chuck looked at her. "It's impossible that the Baker Group has no money! Figure out a way to get it from them!"

"Uncle Chuck, you..." Ava was instantly tearful.

This was the outcome she got in exchange for days of torment by him? She could not accept that!

As soon as Chuck saw her tears, he lost his composure and quickly pulled her into his arms to coax her like she was a precious gem.

"The Baker Group has no money now anyway!" Ava sobbed. "The production lacks funds right now. As long as I can get it, I will be the female lead, and Trinity will listen to me no matter how I want to change up the script!

"Are you investing or not, Uncle Chuck!? If you're not investing, am I telling all the press in next week's launch that we're not shooting the film anymore?

"I can't do something so embarrassing!"

Ava threw herself to the couch and wailed.

Her cry stirred something in Chuck, and he suddenly had an evil thought looking at her back...

Out of the blue, he pinned her down from the back! Ava was caught at a loss and cried in pain, "Ah..."

"Mm, good!" Chuck looked gratified. "I'll invest! Baby, you just had to do this earlier..."

Ava was assured then. Her hard work did not go to waste. It would be fine if she held out just a little more...

While they hooked up, they did not realize that there was a gap in the door. Hannah stood outside with a pale face and trembling body.

Cordelia sorted through all the evidence.

It would certainly stir a tide this time, but they had fortunately informed Janine discreetly beforehand.

With Janine being the spine of the Bakers, the commotion would surely be settled soon.

It was close to Cordelia's expected delivery due date, so she dared not spend too much time outside. Aurelia would sometimes come over to chat with her or send her handmade baby clothes and socks, so intricately made that they were better than what was sold out there.

Cordelia asked her if she had thought about living elsewhere, like Southeast Aciatic.

A sparkle flashed in Aurelia's eyes before they dimmed swiftly.

"You mean uncle's place?" She shook her head with a smile. "No need!" "Why?"

"I don't want to trouble him!"

Cordelia held her hand and smiled. "But he might like you troubling him?"

Aurelia's heart squeezed, and she did her best to calm her thumping heart.

"There's really no need," she said softly like she was telling herself.

"Hah, Cordelia, you've probably misunderstood." She looked up and said with a smile, "Did you think I like uncle? Hahaha... how's that possible!? I'm used to living freely alone. I don't want to like anyone or be liked by anyone. I just want to keep living this freely!

"So be it that I have no immigration status! I can feed myself, and I just have to be more careful usually, heh... I've spent the last 18 years like this! It's not a problem!"

Aurelia's smile was still bright like sunshine, but the gloomy cloud behind her smile cast a shade only over her heart.

Chapter 762

Chapter 762

After Aurelia left the villa, she wanted to have a drink at a bar, but bars required ID and the law stated that anyone below 21 years old was prohibited from drinking. She tried a few bars in vain and could only leave.

Coincidentally, she met her old neighbor, the quiet middle-aged man, on the way. She took the initiative to greet him and chatted, but the man was not good with words. With a smile, he gave her the cans of beer he had just bought.

Aurelia needed the alcohol and did not refuse them.

Accepting the gift, she sat by the road and started drinking quietly.

She had never drunk in the past and nearly spat the beer out in her first sip.

Alcohol was good for getting drunk and forgetting, though. Downing two cans, she was pink and could barely walk straight. Her mind was filled with pink bubbles, and even the night sky felt dreamy. Aurelia grinned and recalled what she had said when she first met Neil.

"Hey, mister, do you want a jacket?"

If time could be rewound, she would absolutely not sell the jacket to him or allow herself to have any fantasy about him.

She got up to return to the hotel, luckily still recognizing her way back.

Stumbling to the door, she pulled out the keycard and waved it at the door several times. Aside from the beeping sound, the door had no other reaction.

Aurelia checked the card with a squint then looked at the door. Was she staying at 16 or 18... She had no idea.

She supported herself up with the wall, and the door opened from the inside while she was lost. With a chuckle, she looked up to meet a pair of deep eyes.

Neil was in a set of satin pajamas with the chest part opened, looking casual and idle.

Aurelia was dazed, especially when she saw the muscular chest and enchanting long legs.

"You..." She gulped. "What are you doing in my room?"

Neil frowned.

What nonsense was the girl saying? This was his room!

He had heard constant attempts of someone trying to enter his room with the keycard just now and was going to report it to the reception when he discovered it was her.

It also just happened that Aurelia burped at that moment, and her alcoholic breath put a scowl on the germaphobic award-winning actor.

"You drank?" Neil asked with a long face.

Aurelia chuckled with pink cheeks.

"You aren't even 21 yet, and you're drinking!?" Neil glared at her. "Brat, go back to your own room!"

Aurelia's eyes were hazy, and it felt like there was a filter to her ears. Her feet felt floaty too. She did not know where to go and only had one thought in her head-Neil's visa was reaching its due. She was suddenly saddened.

Did it mean that she would never see him again in this life if he left?

His time here in Chaiseland felt like a dream to her. She really wanted to keep staying in the dream and never wake up.

This... This must be a dream too? Neil was standing in front of her in pajamas, looking sexy and handsome. The dream lover of so many girls only had her in his eyes right now... Aurelia beamed dreamily. Since this was a dream, it should be fine to confess in it... If she could kiss him and pounce on him in the dream too... it should also be fine, right? That was what she would do!

Neil did not know what was up with Aurelia's constantly changing expressions, nor had he any idea that she had made an important decision.

He shook his head weakly and was going to grab her arm to drag her to her room when she grabbed him instead and buried herself into his embrace.

"Uncle!"

"Hey, you—" Neil was startled, but the warm and pliant body in his arms made his heart beat erratically.

Chapter 763

Chapter 763

"Uncle..." Aurelia said drunkenly, "I-I have something to tell you..."

"We'll talk tomorrow." Neil held her by her shoulders. "You drank a lot. Go get some sleep first."

"No! It'll be too late tomorrow. You'll leave tomorrow!"

Aurelia began to speak nonsense.

It was true that some alcohol braved one up. Usually, Aurelia would never dare stay so close to him.

Now, not only did she dare cling to him, but she also took advantage of her tipsiness and shoved him into the room, closing the door with a hook of her foot.

Surprised, Neil was pushed far away and lost his balance.

Both of them got entangled and fell to the bed...

Neil was shocked, especially given the position they were in where the girl was on top...

From the angle, Aurelia's beautiful face looked even more captivating.

The air froze, and even time seemed to stop. Neil could only hear his unusual thumping heart in the quiet space.

The moment Aurelia smiled, it was like all the flowers in the world had bloomed.

"A-Aurelia..." Neil's Adam's apple bobbed. "You..."

"Uncle..." Her voice was meek like a lamb. "Don't talk first. I'm afraid that I'll wake up once you talk..."

"What are you talking about?"

"Shh!" Aurelia put a finger against Neil's lips and grinned. "I know I'm dreaming! Hehe... But I get to speak my mind in dreams.

"Even though... Even though I call you uncle, you're really not that old... Not only that, but you're so handsome too!

"Uncle, you... Will you forget me when you go back?

"Heh... I won't forget you!" Aurelia pulled Neil's hand over to carelessly press it against her chest. "I'll keep you here! Here, right here!"

Neil felt like a zap of electricity zipped through him when he came in contact with the softness. His rational mind told him that he needed to pull his hand back, but his body was honest-his hand stayed being held by the girl, enjoying the warmth and softness.

"Uncle..."

Aurelia slowly let herself down, and the tip of her small nose met Neil's, with eyes sparkling like the stars.

"I like you."

The words hit Neil's heart heavily.

Aurelia grinned, her big eyes sorrowful. "I can't say these after I wake up from the dream... I like you, uncle. I'm willing to do anything for you, and I'll be right here as long as you need me..."

Neil's ears buzzed, and it felt like his blood all rushed in reverse. He gripped the bedsheet under him with stiff limbs.

Aurelia slumped down next to him with a plop after what she said. Her chestnut hair covered her pink face, and her cropped T-shirt could barely cover her wonderful figure, revealing her slim waist. After a while, she fell soundly asleep with a smile on her face.

Neil took a long time to calm down and for his heartbeat to return to normal.

Aurelia had said that she was dreaming. It was the same for him.

The moment she threw herself into his arms, shoved him to the bed, and spoke nonsense, he thought it was all a dream.

Neil sobered up and got up to tuck the girl in, leaving carefully after turning off the light.

He took another glance before he closed the door. His eyes were tender, but his furrowed brows were helpless.

Chapter 764

Chapter 764

The following day, Aurelia woke up groggily with a blank mind and a splitting headache.

When her thoughts came back to her, she recalled what happened last night briefly. She was moody after leaving Cordelia's place and wanted to get drunk but could not due to her non-existent ID. She then ran into her old neighbor. The kind nomad had given her his beer, and she drank, sitting by the road.

Then... Then how did she get back to the hotel?

From what she could remember, she seemed to have scanned her keycard, but.....

Aurelia's eyes flew open abruptly.

The room's design was different from hers! The faint fragrance on the pillow was the smell of Neil's aftershave! And she-she was lying in Neil's bad!?

"Ah!" Aurelia screamed in hysterics.

She was doomed, she was done for! She slept with him in her dream yesterday and thought that she could do anything she wanted in her dream, even rated things... so she let it all go and said whatever she should and should not have!

Who would have known that it was not a dream!?

Aurelia scratched her head in regret.

She peeked to her left and right like she was a thief. Neil did not seem to be in the room. She should take the opportunity to flee...

Biting her lips, Aurelia was going to get out of bed when the door opened.

Neil came in, dressed in pajamas and slippers, holding a glass of honey lemon water.

Aurelia gaped at him with widened eyes, unable to utter a single word.

Neil had wanted to sober her up and talk to her about last night seriously, but he was amused looking at her and suddenly felt like teasing her. With a smirk, he placed the glass of water on the bedside table and sat on the bed, crossing his legs.

"You're awake?"

Aurelia looked down timidly, and her nod was as good as none.

"Drink it. It'll sober you up."

Aurelia looked at the glass and then at the man, her hands gripping the blanket with her heart thumping wildly.

Last night... he seemed to also be wearing these pajamas-satin with an open collar exposing his sexy and muscular chest...

Aurelia closed her eyes in pain. How could she be such a pervert and ruin his innocence!?

"What's with the face?" Neil asked in a deep voice, "So much drama this early in the morning?"

"Oh, nothing..." Aurelia forced a smile and finally pushed the question out of her lips. "Uncle, did we... Did anything happen between us last night?"

"What do you think?"

Aurelia was stunned.

Neil chuckled and purposely went close to her. "Do you really not remember anything?"

Aurelia was so embarrassed she could die... even though she was happy. However, why should something that would not have an end happen? Would it trouble him? Would it disturb his life? She was so lowly. How would she deserve him? She only wanted to like him in secret and keep him in her heart forever. She did not want to be a hassle!

The air froze again. Neil was waiting for her response, only for the girl's eyes to turn red.

Aurelia took a deep breath and said seriously, "I'm sorry."

It bewildered Neil.

"Uncle, I'm sorry."

Aurelia hopped out of bed and bowed deeply, so guilty she could not say anything.

She looked at him with a complicated gaze and turned to run out.

"Hey, you..." Neil did not manage to stop her, only hearing the door next door beep open and then shut closed. When he chased out, he froze, looked at the door, and finished what he did not say now. "Didn't you see you're still dressed?"

He licked his lips, not knowing what to do next, when his phone rang.

It was Zephyr's urgent voice on the other end of the line. "Neil, I need the men you've brought over!"

"What now?"

"Hannah was kidnapped."

Chuck took Hannah to the forest by the river.

The place was surrounded by mountains and was quiet in isolation. Even if she died there, no one would know.

Hannah looked at the unhinged man in front of her quietly.

A day earlier...

Hannah witnessed the disgrace between Chuck and Ava with her own eyes, and her heart felt like it was plunged into ice.

She did not sleep for the night, the past flashing in her mind... She had taken her daughter to try and survive in the Bakers, living each day on eggshells, afraid that they would offend anyone.

Noah was nice to her, but he was mentally challenged. No one in the Bakers had high regards for them.

She had met Chuck when she had lost hope for life. The man was a romantic and knew what to say to coax her. He was much better than the fool. This was why she was willing to spend so much money for him over all these years.

She just did not expect to put all the money forward to an ungrateful man.

There was also Ava... She was her only daughter-her only family in this world!

Hannah cried as she sorted through the evidence of Chuck's crime.

Since they betrayed her, she would not let them off easily. Worse came to worst, they would all go down together!

Hannah was going out to blow the whistle on Chuck the next day but was stopped on her way.

"Go over!" Chuck held her at gunpoint.

Hannah's heart lurched, and her legs felt weak as she shifted over step by step. Going forward some more was a cliff with a rapid-flowing river underneath. Falling down would mean death. Chuck looked threatening. "Hannah Johnson, I really didn't expect you to dare betray me!"

"You betrayed me first." Hannah looked at him coldly.

There was no longer love, but she subconsciously guarded her belly with a hand.

"You b*tch!"

Chuck slapped her, making her see stars and taste copper at the corner of her lips instantly.

"How dare you collect evidence in secret and even want to report me!?" Chuck kicked her several times more. "B*tch! I'll kill you right here!"

Hannah felt excruciating pain as her stomach was being kicked. She looked at him with a pale face and quivering lips as she sucked in gasps of air. Blood streamed from between her legs... Chuck was alarmed and was going to ask her what happened when dog barks and hasty footsteps could be heard over the distance.

He carried her to hide in the deeper part of the forest at once.

Zephyr caught up swiftly. He had already called the police before he came, and the police had surrounded the area. Chuck would not be able to get away no matter what this time.

"Damn it!"

It was a dead end in front. Hannah and Chuck were forced to the cliff. Wind billowed in the forest and buzzed in their ears.

Hannah fell to her knees, too weak to hold herself up, while Chuck kept a gun against her head.

Zephyr approached with his men to surround them, and Chuck stepped back subconsciously.

It was his first time facing Zephyr, but the latter's presence intimidated him.

Zephyr sneered. "Chuck Cole, are you still going to be stubborn?"

Chapter 765

Chapter 765

With nowhere to retreat, Chuck pulled Hannah over as his hostage.

Zephyr looked at him with a blank face.

"You really think you can threaten me with her?"

"Hah, she can't threaten you, but she can threaten the fool in your family!"

Zephyr's face fell.

Chuck did not know that Zephyr already had evidence of his crimes and had handed them to the police. The evidence in Hannah's hands actually did not matter.

The men from Southeast Aciatic countered him with their guns.

"Ask them to put down the guns!" Chuck shouted hysterically, "Or... I'll shoot this b*tch right now!"

"Zephyr! Zephyr!" Shouts came from afar.

Noah ran over frantically and was stopped by Zephyr.

He yelled anxiously, "Why are you still standing here? Ask them to put their guns down! Your Aunt Hannah is still with the man!"

Zephyr's expression was cold as he looked at Noah. He was the one who had asked for Noah to be brought here.

The man had to see it with his own eyes.

"Sweetheart..." Hannah was about to faint from losing too much blood, but she struggled for the last time upon seeing Noah. "Sweetheart, save me! I... I can't..." "Let go of her!" Noah stomped on the spot. "Please, I beg you. L-Let go of her. I can pay you however much you want!

"Zephyr, Zephyr! Please, save Hannah! S-She's pregnant! My son, my son..."

Noah bawled, crouching on the ground and hugging his head, almost getting on his knees before Zephyr.

"What!?" Chuck was shocked. It was then realization struck him as to why Hannah was bleeding between her legs. She was pregnant?

"What's going on?" He grabbed her hair. "You have the fool's kid? You're f*cking him while you f*cking sleep with me!?"

Noah was stunned as he looked at Hannah in disbelief.

"Sweetheart, w-what is he saying?"

Hannah was slumped on the ground without a hint of color.

"Uncle Noah..." Zephyr turned to the man. "Aunt Hannah's pregnant, but it's not your baby."

Noah felt like thunder struck him, and he could not speak a word.

Chuck slowly let go of his grip as well, and Hannah fell to the ground like a spineless dog. "Zephyr Hamerton, make it clear!" Chuck panicked. "Whose kid is this b*tch carrying!?" Zephyr pulled out the paternity test result calmly.

"I don't know whose child she's having, but I can guarantee that it's not my uncle's nor a Baker's!"

As Zephyr's deep and stern voice echoed in the valley, it felt like a blade slicing Noah's heart.

Chuck was disoriented, and his face began to twitch involuntarily. He looked at Hannah in disbelief, who was on the brink of death, and kicked her.

"B*tch! Whose child is it!? Tell me!"

Hannah looked up at him and mustered all she could to force a weak but mocking smile. She knew Chuck's wish all these years.

The man dreamed of having a child of his own, but no matter how many women he slept with, none was willing to have his baby.

If he knew that Hannah was pregnant, he would keep the child no matter the price! Now, though, his dream was shattered... Hannah laughed. This was the price he had to pay for betraying her!

Chapter 766

Chapter 766

This was Hannah's fatal blow to Chuck!

"Chuck Cole..." Hannah gritted her teeth. "Serves you right! You played with my feelings, cheated my money away, and took my daughter! Hah, the heavens won't let you off easy. You won't have any heirs! "You... kicked me just now. The baby won't make it! You killed your own child. It's you!"

Chuck growled and lifted his pistol.

When he was about to shoot, the police siren echoed from nearby, and a bullet shot through his wrist. He yelped in pain and fell to the ground with blood splattering.

Hannah struggled to get up and staggered a few steps away, but she slipped and fell into the rapid river...

The chaos did not last long as the police arrived soon to take control of it.

Zephyr left with Noah, escorted by bodyguards.

Noah wore a blank face on the way back.

Zephyr was a little worried and called out "Uncle Noah" softly, but it was like Noah was possessed. His eyes stared straight with a dazed look, and his mouth was slightly agape, his body twitching occasionally. "Uncle Noah, don't be like this..." Zephyr was sad.

As soon as he put a hand on Noah's shoulder, the latter suddenly screamed in horror. It sounded like the cry of a dying animal.

"Uncle Noah, don't be scared!" Zephyr comforted him quickly. "It's me, I'm Zephyr! I'll stay with you..."

"

Noah screamed and cried heartbrokenly.

"Why? Why?"

"Uncle Noah..."

"Why do this to me!?"

Noah punched his own chest.

What Zephyr could do now was to hold Noah's hands as much as he could to prevent the man from hurting himself.

"Zephyr..." Noah bawled. "A-Am I really foolish?"

Zephyr bit his lips, unable to speak.

"I-I know I'm stupid... but I have a heart! I'm a fool, but I have a heart too!

"Why must she hurt my heart!?"

Zephyr hugged Noah tightly as he felt miserable. He remembered his uncle hugging him this way too and taking him to the square to feed the pigeons when he was in a bad mood as a child back then. Now that he hugged his uncle, he suddenly felt that he had gone thin and old and was weak and pitiful.

"Uncle Noah, everything's over." He patted Noah's back. "I promise that no one will hurt you anymore!"

Chuck was caught and sentenced to prison with multiple crimes like fraud and money laundering. Hannah survived the fall but lost her baby. She was affected psychologically and could only be sent to a menta rehabilitation center.

The Bakers' lawyer team worked swiftly to settle the divorce between Noah and Hannah, with the latter not getting a single cent.

Ava had been hiding in Chuck's apartment all this while, focusing on studying and memorizing her script, so she had no idea what had happened outside. She just knew that Chuck had not been back for a while, but she was happy to be left alone.

She felt rather guilty toward Hannah, and there were several times she wanted to call her but gave up, knowing that her mother would never forgive her for what she had done.

Even the fool, Noah, who usually showed concern for her did not contact her.

Things felt unusual!

However, Ava was obsessed with becoming an award-winning actress and did not contact anyone aside from Trinity.

She was practicing her expressions in front of the mirror that day when she suddenly received Trinity's call.

"Ms. Baker? The press release for the new film is tomorrow. There'll be a lot of press there. Be punctual. Don't be late!"

Chapter 767

Chapter 767

Ava was so thrilled that she lost her voice, and her hand holding the phone shook.

She had prepared a gown a long time ago. It was expensive since it was a limited edition designer one, so she had been holding back from wearing it. She finally had a use for it now!

The new film press conference was held as scheduled the next day.

Before Ava went out, she felt that the apartment had been eerily quiet recently. Chuck had not come to her, and her family servant and chauffeur were gone too.

She was the only one left in the spacious apartment. It felt as if she was abandoned on a deserted island.

Ava walked out of the door and took a deep breath. People were still walking on the streets, and everything went on as usual. The world did not abandon her.

Perhaps, she was only abandoned by Chuck... She gnashed her teeth. As expected, men were not reliable!

It was okay, though, as he had already invested the money. She was going to be the female lead of the movie and would shine and succeed! By then, she would step over all those people who used to look down on her!

Ava grinned and called for a cab. While she waited for the car, she browsed her phone album and discovered a video clip.

Trinity greatly admired the mixed girl in the clip as the former kept taking photos and videos of her on the set that day, claiming that the girl was perfect at all angles!

Ava had wanted to see if the girl was truly all that flawless, so she had looked for the worst angle and recorded this clip.

Ava frowned. What was the girl's name again? Aurelia?

"Hah, who does she think she is to fight with me!?"

She was just going to delete it when her finger hovered as a thought flashed in her head...

Her cab came then, so she returned to her senses, got into the car, and headed for the press conference.

The press release was not too big in scale, but those who came in support were seniors in Eropah's film industry. Some knew Trinity privately and promoted the movie to the press wholeheartedly. Trinity weaved through the crowd with Millie, at ease and chatting casually.

"Honorable guests and press!" The host smiled. "Ms. Trinity here will announce the cast of this movie next!"

Trinity walked up the stage gracefully and spoke. "This is my second production in Eropah's market... Heh, speaking of which, I'm rather embarrassed. The last box office was awful, and that was because I misjudged the market here.

"This time, with the Baker Group and Imperial Media's full support, I'm back here again... I believe that we learn from our mistakes. With the last experience, my new film will not disappoint you!" Applause erupted from below the stage as celebrities and directors raised their glasses in congratulations.

Trinity continued. "This film is mainly an opportunity for new artists, but the spot of the female lead remains open for the most beautiful award-winning actress to me-Millie!"

"Trinity Lulham, what did you say!?" A shrill voice pierced through the air.

The venue fell silent as everyone looked toward the source of the voice.

Ava stood at the door, pale and furious. Her resentment nearly condensed into sharp blades that flew off her eyes.

Trinity was unfazed, prepared for this.

"You... Didn't you ask me to attend this press conference!?" Ava's face was twisted in anger. "Why is it her? The female lead should be me. Why would it be her!?" Millie scoffed and shook her head. "Miss, you-"

Chapter 768

Chapter 768

Ava dashed over like she had lost her mind before Millie could finish.

Millie reacted in time and took two steps back, so Ava did not manage to hit her but fell down and screamed hysterically.

The reporters were quick to capture the scene, and the cameras' flashes flickered instantly.

Trinity saw that it was time and shot her assistant a look. The screen showed Prestige Agency's accounts, where the 15,000,000 Eropah dollars from Chuck came from, and news about Chuck being caught.

"I'd also like to announce something." Trinity was calm and authoritative. "There've been rumors previously saying that Ms. Baker's joining the production as the female lead with the investment funds she's bringing in. I can clarify this now...

"Ms. Ava Baker did join with the funds, but the amount, 15,000,000 Eropah dollars, is actually for money laundering for criminals!

"I, Trinity Lulham, as a filmmaker with conscience, will hand all illegal funds to the police and work with them the best I can!"

Ava looked at the screen wide-eyed as if she had fallen into hell, and her mind went blank.

Soon, the police arrived, and Ava was caught in detention to be tried.

Not only did the Bakers send their lawyer team, but they also sent their best PR team to minimize the impact of this matter as much as possible.

It was fortunate that the Baker Group's shares did not fall and actually increased significantly because of the assistance in catching Chuck.

The matter came to a close, but Noah was greatly affected and turned much quieter and gloomier.

Franklin talked to Zephyr and Cordelia, deciding to let Noah go to Centrolis with them after Cordelia gave birth. Perhaps, changing the environment would be better for him.

Carter made a copy of Noah's medical history and took the flight back to Southeast Aciatic.

"Cordelia, Zephyr, don't worry," he said with a smile before he left. "The first thing I'll do after I get home will be to pass the records to dad. I think he'll have a way!"

Zephyr patted his shoulder with a grateful smile.

There was one week left until Cordelia's expected due date. Both husband and wife were incredibly cautious these days, avoiding going out as much as possible and waiting for the baby's arrival at home. The weather was getting warmer. Sleep sometimes could not come to Cordelia at night because of how warm it was, and she would stay snuggled in Zephyr's arms, firing him trap questions. "Darling, the lines on my stomach are growing worse..."

Zephyr perked up in alert. According to experience, he could not say that they were "not getting worse" or what he thought. He also could not say things like she was pretty no matter what... His wife was asking for his attention and needed his empathy right now.

Hence, he hugged her and smiled softly. With a hoarse voice tinged with self-blame and guilt, he told her, "It's all my fault that you have these marks. My bad! Thank you, darling."

Cordelia paused before the corners of her lips flew up. She had to admit that the honeyed words were so sweet that they went straight to her heart.

"Then... honey." She brightened up and switched positions in Zephyr's arms to continue asking, "If, I'm saying if, you meet a girl who's younger, prettier, and better shaped than me, and has no stretch marks or her, is talented and understanding, and you like her very much... What will you do?"

Zephyr was stunned while listening and worked quickly to search for the keyword in her question.

He liked her very much? This was an obvious trap and unlike his wife's style!

Hmm, there must be another trap within the trap!

Zephyr chuckled and rubbed the tip of his nose against her forehead.

"That's not right..." he replied softly. "How do I 'meet' this girl? It's simply impossible!"

Chapter 769

Chapter 769

"Just... Just what if!" Cordelia looked at him. "What if you met one?"

Zephyr pressed his lips together.

Nothing could ever handle "what-ifs".

Once a woman was engrossed with hypothetical questions, she would play a full-fledged soap opera in her mind. Not even Trinity would dare direct her film that way. Yet, once the man failed to counter the "what-if", the consequences would be grave.

Zephyr chuckled. He might be even more experienced than Nicholas in terms of traps and loaded questions now.

This was nothing to him! He cleared his throat and asked pointedly, "Oh, if I met one? Okay, where did we meet?"

"Um..." Cordelia blinked her big eyes. "Just anywhere."

"How could your husband be just anywhere?"

"Then... you met on the streets!"

"Your husband drives when he's out. He doesn't roam the streets."

Cordelia grinned. "Then you two got in an accident!"

She did not realize that she had already fallen into the man's trap and was drifting farther away from the main topic.

Zephyr held back his laugh and stroked her hair gently. "She drove her car into mine?"

Cordelia nodded seriously. "Mm!"

Zephyr replied seriously straightaway, "Then I have to report it to the police and let the traffic police catch her! How did she get her driving license when she drives recklessly on the road!?"

Cordelia was stunned.

"And she has to bear full responsibility and compensate for my car!"

"Darling?"

"We'll get the lawyer to settle this! We'll meet at the court if she doesn't want to pay! I'll sue her until she goes bankrupt and gets too embarrassed to see anyone!" "No, no!"

Cordelia was lost by what he said. How did they get to this point in their conversation? She looked at Zephyr, catching the triumphant smile at the corner of his lips. "Stop diverting the topic! I'm asking you, what will you do if you meet a girl like this?"

Zephyr could not help it. "Then how did we meet!?"

"Just... we'll make it more romantic. You both see the same thing in the mall and reach for it simultaneously and then you meet!"

"Reach for it at the same time?" Zephyr arched his brow. "An XL shirt? Or size 43 shoes?"

Cordelia was rendered speechless.

"If she wears such a big size... Honey, you call that better shaped than you?"

Cordelia stared at him dumbly and blinked.

This was odd. Why did it seem like she was lost in the conversation again?

"No, darling, I mean- Mmh!"

Her lips were sealed with a deep kiss before she could finish her sentence.

Zephyr kissed her, and his hand roamed up her back like it had a mind of its own.

Cordelia was delirious and could not help wrapping her arms around his neck to respond in equal passion. "Darling..." Zephyr left her lips and met her dazed eyes. He swiped a finger across her supple cheek. "What you said about 'what-if' will not exist at all. I don't want anyone but you in this world. "Actually, I don't even mind the world..." he whispered deeply by her ear with a smile. "I only mind you."

After Carter returned to Southeast Aciatic, Rowan and Xyla rushed to Melorian.

Chapter 770

Chapter 770

One of them was there to accompany Cordelia for her delivery, while the other one was there to study Noah's condition.

"Dad, how is it?" Cordelia asked in worry.

Rowan shook his head lightly with a grim expression. Zephyr's heart sank.

"I can do my best to treat him." Rowan looked at them. "But don't have too much hope. It's not something treatable in a short time, and just medicine isn't enough. Rehab training is required too." "Mm." Zephyr nodded. "Thanks, dad."

Xyla sighed and said, "Actually, your mom came to me before when Noah had just fallen from the horse. My dad was the one who treated him then, and my grandpa joined. They could only ensure that his condition wouldn't worsen. It might not be easy for him to recover to being fully abled."

"It's great that it didn't worsen." Rowan patted her shoulder. "A brain injury remains a challenge in the medical field to this day."

Zephyr hung his head in silence. He was sad, but when thinking about it from another perspective, his uncle's greatest good luck was that he was born in the Bakers. The wealth and luxury he enjoyed in this life were not what regular people even dared fantasize about.

Even if he was a fool, he got to live in affluence and security.

"Spend a few more days here in Melorian since you're already here." Zephyr smiled. "There's a small villa next door. Carter stayed there when he was here. If you want to stay with Cordelia, I'll get someone to prepare the guest room."

"No need for the trouble." Xyla smiled lovingly. "We can just stay at a hotel."

"Huh?" Rowan's eyes bulged instantly. "Aren't we here for Cordelia's delivery? Why are we staying at a hotel? We're already here in our daughter's home. Of course we're staying with her!"

"Right!" Xyla shot him a look and said in a harsh whisper, "Can't you tell that your son-in-law is just being courteous? We're staying outside. Don't be an annoying third wheel here!" "Oh..." Rowan pursed his lips dejectedly as his wife pulled his ear.

"Mom, just stay here and keep me company!"

"No, it's really fine." Xyle stroked Cordelia's hair. "Don't worry. We'll support you outside the ward the day you give birth!"

"Yes." Rowan grinned. "And to say hello to my precious grandson..."

"Yours?" Xyla knocked his head. "Janine will be the first one even then. That's her grandson!"

"Cordelia, look at your mom!" Rowan complained. "I was ranked behind Janine when we were younger, and I still lose to that witch now!"

Cordelia quickly covered the man's mouth while Zephyr turned around with a cough, unable to hold his laugh back.

"Oh, right, Cordelia..." Rowan went closer to mutter to Cordelia, "I've been looking at Noah's records these days, and I suddenly thought of something." "What is it?"

Rowan spoke seriously. "Do all the men in their family... have hereditary genes of becoming silly after a collision?"

Cordelia widened her eyes and furrowed her brows in exasperation.

"Dad!"

"I'm considering this for your sake. Zephyr's fallen off a plane before!"

"Noah's his uncle. It's scientifically proven that nephews are like their maternal uncles! Cordelia, I think running Zephyr through a detailed checkup is necessary!"

Cordelia was rendered speechless. "Mom, take dad to the hotel! I'll get the chauffeur to send you!"

"Cordelia, take my son-in-law for a brain CT scan first. I have people I know in the hospitals here—"

Rowan did not get to finish his sentence as Xyla dragged him out of the villa, muttering, "I think you're the only one who needs a brain CT scan!" After they left, the villa went back to its peace and quiet.

Cordelia stood by the window, and Zephyr hugged her from the back, looking at the smile blossoming on her lips. He felt full in his heart as well.

He stroked her belly. The baby had been lazy recently, not that fond of moving around now probably because of the lacking space in there.

Cordelia suddenly looked at Zephyr, blinking her big eyes. "Darling, do you look forward to meeting him?"

The corners of Zephyr's lips curled into a doting smile.

"Of course I do." Sometimes, when he thought about his son, about how his blood flowed in the baby and would pass down his excellent genes, maybe turning out even better than him... he was filled with pride.

"But..." Zephyr paused and looked at her deeply, saying with a husky voice, "I hope that he doesn't give you too much trouble anymore.

"Cordelia, I... I'm afraid about you being in pain."