Ch. 781..790

Chapter 781

Chapter 781

"What?"

The police officer and Aurelia were stunned.

"Uncle, no-"

"Shut up!" Neil yelled at Aurelia.

Aurelia's heart dropped, and she felt aggrieved and an abrupt pinch in her nose.

"This is the open sea, right?"

"Yes..." The police officer frowned. "It is."

"You're responsible for sending this person out of the border, right?"

"Yes."

"As long as she's out of Chaiseland, you're not intervening in where she's going?"

Each of Neil's sentences was correct, so the police officer could only nod.

Neil took a step forward and wrapped an arm around Aurelia's shoulder.

As the petite girl was embraced, she could not help the reddening of her eyes as Neil's arm felt like a warm and safe haven.

"She's my fiancee! She should leave with me!"

Aurelia sat by the window. It was still the endless sea under her, and she still felt dizzy. What was different was that she had been in a boat an hour earlier and was currently in a helicopter an hour later. "Take a nap if you're tired." The man next to her tossed her a blanket. "I'll wake you up when we arrive."

Aurelia shrank into herself, not daring to speak. She peeked at the moody man.

Neil had landed the helicopter on the deck and had taken her into his arms, announcing that she was his fiancee and taking her away before everyone's eyes... Everything felt like a dream. Happiness seeped into the bottom of her heart like honey, yet she dared not share it with anyone. She could only enjoy it alone.

It was just that she did not know why he was pulling a long face. Was he angry at her?

Aurelia recalled that night and blushed.

"Uncle..." She held the glass, her fingers tapping against it anxiously, and her voice was barely above a whisper. "Actually, actually, I've wanted to explain it to you. I... I drank too much that night and didn't manage to control myself. I...

"Sorry, Uncle, I know I was wrong, but it has already happened. I can only do my best to recompense you. And..."

She looked up with her starry eyes. "You're an adult. You... wouldn't mind it too much, right?"

Neil winced and turned to look at her. He was taken aback. What was Aurelia talking about?

Adult? Would not mind it? She wanted to recompense him?

Who was this girl looking down on!?

Forget that nothing had happened that night. Even if something did happen, he did not need her recompensing him!

Neil felt even more choked with anger. It felt as if all his blood was rushing to his heart to give him a heart attack. He stood up abruptly and went to her seat with one wide stride. With both hands against the back of the seat, Aurelia was securely trapped between him and the seat.

Her expressive eyes were timid and surprised.

"Uncle, you..."

"Let me ask you." Neil's voice was deep, like the cello. "What do you think of me?"

Chapter 782

Chapter 782

Aurelia was bewildered.

"What... do you mean what I think?"

Her heart thumped wildly. She dared not look into his eyes, yet the space was limited. In addition to his current position, the tip of his nose was going to touch hers... Even if she avoided it, she had little room to move around.

The man's warm breaths were close to the tip of her nose. They slowly turned into a ball of flame that burned away her rationale.

Aurelia took a deep breath and tried her hardest to stay level-headed. What could she think? How could someone without a status be worthy of him?

"Are you asking the obvious, Aurelia?" Neil smirked. "Have you really forgotten what you said that night?

"I just want to know if what you said is true!"

Aurelia's throat tightened up. She looked up after a moment of silence and met his eyes. Like a determined warrior, she gnashed her teeth with a made-up mind-she would deny her feelings for him regardless.

If her feelings were a restraint that held him back, she would rather keep it a secret for life.

"Heh... Uncle, you aren't being serious, are you?" Aurelia grinned as brightly as she could. "What did I say that night? I've forgotten all about it!"

The dim glint in Neil's eyes grew darker.

"But don't mind it, even if I did say something, I was drunk! It's all drunken words. They don't count!

"Uncle," Aurelia said seriously. She was smiling, but each word she uttered felt like a cut in her heart. "You're just an uncle to me, actually. Nothing else."

The glow in Neil's eyes went out instantly.

'Hah, so I was the one misunderstanding all this while?'

He smirked and kept heated eyes on her for a while before he darted back to his seat.

"Very well." He chuckled and clenched his fist hidden on his side to the point his knuckles turned white.

"Since we're making things clear, I'll be frank with you too," he said in a deep tone. "Actually, nothing happened that night. You don't have to think about recompensing me, either. I wouldn't take what you said seriously!"

"What?" Aurelia was stunned.

Neil looked into her eyes and said word for word, "I said, nothing happened between us!"

Aurelia's ears buzzed. The helicopter went up to another altitude. The pressure in the cabin lowered, and her eardrums hurt. It must be because it was her first time on a helicopter, and she was not used to it... She felt her eyes burn like she wanted to cry.

"Haha..." She coughed a laugh. "That's good, that's great! We don't have to be awkward now, right, uncle?"

"Yeah."

Neil's voice was deep, and his gaze was complicated to read.

The girl really did not want anything to do with him...

He calmed down and told himself he wanted nothing to do with her, either.

That was it. He came from a noble birth, and his family was well known. He was also an award-winning actor! Why would he want to be entangled with an illegal immigrant? Helping her now was only because it was humane to do so.

Aurelia asked him softly, "Uncle, where are we going now?"

"Feranche, for a transit," Neil answered. "But you don't have a visa. I know a diplomat there who could allow our helicopter to stay for 24 hours."

"Then I..."

"Don't leave the helicopter. I'll take care of things then."

Aurelia nodded.

Chapter 783

Chapter 783

"A private jet from Centrolis will come to pick us up when we're at the airport." Neil then added, "I still have work in Centrolis, so you'll have to stay with me for the time being. But it's easier in Centrolis. You can stay with the Hamertons, even though you don't have an immigration status there..."

"I'll have to trouble Cordelia again?"

"If you feel bad about it, help her babysit."

Aurelia smiled and pulled the blanket up herself, falling asleep in a while.

Neil looked at her sleeping profile quietly, unable to help himself from stroking her long, chestnut hair.

The girl had not taken a shower in days, and her hair was knotted. She also had patches of dirt on her face. She looked pitiful.

He recalled the moment he saw her on the deck. She was like a weak, helpless stray kitten with fear of the unknown in her eyes. It was just that this kitten did not belong in his world, after all.

Cordelia returned to Centrolis with Zephyr after she recovered from her labor.

Baby Zuko became everyone's favorite.

First, he received five big chests of gold from his great-grandfather, Liam. Then, it was his first-month party, where all the wealthy families that wanted to pander to the Hamertons gifted all sorts of expensive and rare presents, a contest among themselves both discreetly and in the open. Next were the Hamerton relatives who turned fortune tellers in the blink of an eye, all of them reading success, prosperity, good luck, and more from a little baby...

It finally came to the day they would meet Josiah and the others.

Cordelia and Zephyr dashed out of Hamerton Manor with their son early in the morning. Both of them had cramped faces from smiling so much in socializing these days, and they needed a breather. The attendance was full at the gathering.

Josiah and Nicholas gave monetary gifts each and were despised by Zephyr. "Old-fashioned!"

"Come on, forgive them!" Linda grinned, her gold earrings, necklace, and bangles clinking loudly. "Don't you see? These are what Nicholas gave me for our anniversaries and stuff too!"

Nicholas scratched his head with a silly grin. Gold was the most valuable, and monetary gifts were the most practical to him. Gold and green were great!

As for Josiah, he defended himself, "Z, birds of a feather flock together. I spent too much time around Nicholas, so I definitely got the old fashion from him!" "Repeat yourself, Bayer?"

Nicholas raised a brow, and Josiah was quick to hide, afraid that the former would snatch his bank card.

"Cordelia, this is from me!" Linda was excited as she put on a cute little gold pendant that she had specifically asked someone to design for Zuko.

Zuko's eyes were big as he looked around without fussing. With how plump he was, he looked absolutely endearing.

"Aww, I love him so much!" Linda could not help it. "Can I carry him? So I get some baby luck!"

Cordelia passed Zuko to her with a smile. Linda carried him for a while, thrilled to discover the baby smiling at her.

Kelly wanted to carry the baby too but dared not do anything, afraid she would pass her illnesses and hospital viruses to him.

Cordelia let her hold the baby's hand.

This was Kelly's first time coming in contact with a baby. The flexibility and suppleness of a baby surprised her, and the more she looked at the baby, the more she liked it. "What do you think?" Josiah smiled crouching in front of her. "If you like one, we can make a team next time!"

Kelly whined and glared at him, asking him to shut up.

"Sorry we're late!" A sweet voice rang at the door.

Zennie skipped inside, with Seth following her. Both of them presented their gift the moment they came.

"Zephyr, we got this for my little nephew!"

Zephyr froze. 'This thick stack of papers... Are these years' worth of mock exam papers!?'

Chapter 784

Chapter 784

"Don't worry, Zephyr!" Seth said with a smile, "It's not mock exam papers!"

Zephyr and Cordelia exchanged a look and chuckled. What they heard next made them stiffen up, however.

"There'll be new mock exam papers when little Zuko grows up! This one here is his customized study plan!" "What did you say!?" Zephyr's eyes bulged. "My son just turned one month old, and you two made him... a study plan?"

"Yeah!"

Zennie opened the big package and pulled out a pretty countdown timer.

Cordelia was astonished. "What is this?"

The wooden cards had little rocket patterns around them to show that the baby would shoot right into success. There was a big "Exam Countdown" right in the center.

"Well..."

"Zephyr, Cordelia!" Seth coughed and smiled like an elderly loving professor. "From now on, there are 6,570 days till baby Zuko's first big exam. This study plan is customized for him, specially made by Zennie and me the best we could!"

Cordelia winced. Her baby in her arms blinked his big, bright eyes at his aunt cutely.

"Zephyr, this study plan is amazing!" Zennie was triumphant. "My nephew definitely won't lose to anyone right from the start!"

"Mm!" Seth picked up from her. "I've studied infants' behavioral psychology. Even though babies can't talk, they already have language awareness and sensory awareness of their surrounding environment. Thus, our Zuko will have to be trained slowly, starting with languages..."

"Zephyr, read this set of vocabulary to him every day, so his Chaisene gets an A the moment he's in pre-school!

"This music score contains all the classics of the world, so he'll be in Grade 10 for piano when he graduates pre-school!"

"We picked out this chess book carefully too. He'll be a professional chess player by the time he's in elementary school!"

"When Zuko sits for his exam..."

"He'll be admitted to the Ivy Leagues on recommendation!"

"Uh, you know what!" Josiah interrupted the couple. He could not bear to watch the family of three wearing shocked gaping expressions.

"Uh, Z, when are we eating?"

Zephyr finally snapped out of his trance, secretly touched that Josiah was so tactful, and went along with him. "Let's go to the restaurant now. Come on!"

"Yeah, yes!" Cordelia chorused. "Let's eat now, right now!"

Both husband and wife moved faster than everyone else carrying Zuko. The rest of their friends caught up with them giggling.

Seth and Zennie were caught off guard for a moment before they smiled. They picked up the exam countdown gift package, planning to send it directly to the married couple's home.

Cordelia breathed in relief, hugging her son in the car. She kept breathing in the baby's scent. It smelled so good.

Zephyr was enviously watching them. Forget about Cordelia coming over to take a whiff at him. She would not even touch him.

Their son sometimes fussed in his sleep at night-a kick of his leg, and Cordelia would wake up right away as if she had telepathy and pick the baby up to coax him.

What about Zephyr? Even if he rolled off the bed, his wife would only look at him from the bed and tell him, "Softer, don't wake our son."

Zephyr was dejected. This was no son-he was a love rival!

"Darling, what's up?" Cordelia asked softly.

"Oh, nothing." Zephyr smiled. "Just... thinking about the gift package from Zennie and Seth!"

A giggle escaped Cordelia. No one could top Zuko's aunt and uncle in being this motivated.

"What do you think about it, darling?"

"What about you?"

Chapter 785

Chapter 785

Cordelia looked up and met Zephyr's gentle and indifferent eyes. The man grew up being pushed and motivated. He would certainly not want his son to go through what he had been through. "I think as long as Zuko grows up healthy and happy," she said softly. "I'm not an ambitious person to start with, so I naturally wouldn't ask too much from our son!

"Honey, you... probably think the same, right?"

Zephyr arched his brow.

The same? Heh, how was that possible!?

Once Zephyr thought that the boy was occupying Cordelia since his birth and would occupy her for even longer after this, he felt...

Zephyr smirked. "Darling, you're wrong!"

"Huh?"

"I think exactly the opposite of you. I think the study plan's great! He is a boy and should go through more grinding!"

Cordelia widened her eyes speechlessly.

"If Zuko can't take the hardships of studying, he'll have to take the hardships life throws at him later!" Zephyr said confidently, "Darling, you wouldn't want him to become a prodigal heir, right?"

Cordelia frowned. "That's true..."

"So Zuko's classes have to be packed!"

Once the boy's schedule was packed, he would not be bothering his wife!

Zephyr said seriously, "Darling, early childhood education has to be timely! I think we should get him the best early childhood teacher to start teaching him at home next month!" Baby Zuko blinked his big, bright eyes as he stared at his own father, wondering whether he had come to the correct family and whether this man was really his father.

After Aurelia arrived in Centrolis, she stayed with Cordelia in Royal Manor.

Helen liked the beautiful and hardworking girl. Both of them did household chores together and helped babysit Zuko for Cordelia. Their teamwork was impeccable. Zuko also seemed to like Aurelia a lot. Sometimes, when she played with him by the cradle, he waved his plump little arms and whined.

The baby clothes Aurelia made were soft and thin, with threads carefully hidden inside. The seams were well taken care of.

Cordelia sometimes sighed. "You're so skilled. You really should use it somewhere it's needed!"

Aurelia chuckled embarrassedly and tinkered with the spinning bells on the bed. Baby Zuko was happily playing with them, flailing his arms and legs excitedly. Cordelia told her softly, "Aurelia, when Neil's done with work here, he'll take you to Southeast Aciatic. He's rather influential there, and the royals will grant you an immigration status as a favor to him." Aurelia's smile froze as she looked back quietly. "Cordelia, am I troubling him?"

"Not exactly. It's an easy job for him to help you."

Aurelia lowered her head. As someone without a registered identity, she knew well how difficult it was to get a status no matter which country it was.

If Neil were to beg someone or get caught in a plight because of her, she would rather be an illegal immigrant for life than for him to lower himself inferiorly to others.

The doorbell rang. The butlers from the Hamertons were here with the accounts to be checked by Cordelia.

Since Zephyr and Cordelia returned to Centrolis, they took on the roles of the man being the breadwinner and the woman being the homemaker. Zephyr ran the company while Cordelia decided every household affair.

Clark came to Cordelia every day with a few other veteran butlers.

Cordelia led them to wait in the study room and went to change, asking Helen to prepare snacks and tea.

Aurelia saw that Cordelia was going to be busy and that Zuko was getting sleepy, so she took the baby back to his room to tuck him in.

When Zuko was asleep, she went on her phone out of boredom and saw the entertainment news that popped on her screen. The person who had been trending these days caught her aback.

Chapter 786

Chapter 786

Since Neil returned to Centrolis, he stirred up some commotion.

Interviews from various media companies came incessantly while film contracts were sent to him like a snowstorm. His agent, Shane, was drowned with the number of scripts they received. A few of the big productions were rather tempting.

"Neil, look at this... The artistic film this director shoots isn't worse than Trinity's. He's won an Oscar before!

"And this. Didn't you want to change up your role and go for the spy action genre? This script is not bad!

"You'll work with a few seniors in this film. The reputation's guaranteed. If you ask me, historical and serious dramas like these will be beneficial to you if you pick them. What do you think? "Neil Harris, say something. Which one do you want to go for?"

Other actors fought for resources while resources lined up after the award-winning actor Neil Harris. He could just sit there, and good scripts were sent his way.

However, Neil was not in the mood. He took a glance at the scripts and answered flatly, "None."

Shane nearly tripped over himself.

"What did you say?"

Neil pinched between his brows and waved his hand. "I don't want to act in any of them!"

"You..." Shane was so close to pushing up his sleeve to punch him.

He was a top agent in the industry and had trained up several big shots. He had guided Neil when the latter had just debuted.

The actor's powerful family background and outstanding talent paved the smooth way to his award-winning career.

It was just that this man could not be hit or scolded, and it was a huge headache for Shane.

Ultimately, Shane's balled-up fist ended on himself.

Neil jolted and looked at him in surprise. "What are you doing?"

"I'm hitting myself for being useless!" Shane was angry. "I can't even manage an artist. Wasted such good resources!"

Neil coughed a chuckle and patted his manager's shoulder apologetically.

"I'm not the only one you manage. Give out these scripts, and you'll earn lots of favors!"

"What do you want, Neil? A course in Chaiseland, and you studied till you lost your mind?"

Speaking of which, Shane suddenly thought of something...

"Neil Harris!" he yelled with bulging eyes. "That fiancee of yours, it's not true, is it?"

There was a change of expression on Neil's face as he stayed silent.

"It's real!?" Shane was frantic.

This could not be... The man was at the peak of his career and popularity. There was also a bright future ahead of him. How could he get married at this prime time!?

He had also heard that the girl had nothing except a pretty face. She had never gone to school, had no powerful family to back her up, and didn't even have an ID!

Neil had talked to Shane on the phone to brief him about the situation before he took her back. Shane had not minded it much back then, as he just assumed that the actor was having fun. He did not expect the man not to even want to work now!

"Neil, are you being serious?" Shane asked again with a stern face.

Neil did not answer. He slouched on the couch, swirling a glass of whisky in his left hand.

What was the point of him being serious? The girl did not even plan to have anything to do with him. She had said it he was just an uncle to her.

Moreover, he did not know what he actually felt for her either. Sometimes, when he calmed down and thought about it carefully, it was probably sympathy and pitiful fondness he had for her... His impression of her was like a poor stray kitten, an alarmed bunny, a lively fox-all that but not a woman.

Neil had high standards for his partner. She had to be intelligent and beautiful, talented, have shared interests with him, be able to take care of a home and be presentable, exude the feminine charm...

Aurelia did not match his standards at all.

Neil chuckled and emptied the whisky in his glass.

"Hey!" Shane nudged him and shook his head weakly. "There's something I have to remind you."

"What?"

"Whether your fiancee is real or not... the fans don't want it to be real, understand?"

Neil frowned.

"You wouldn't want to retire so soon, right?"

Neil's gaze was aloof as he looked out the window. Of course, he wanted to make something out of this. It would be boring to go home and take over his family business.

"If you still want a place in showbiz, maintain your relationship with your fans! You aren't just an award-winning actor. You're also a popular celebrity. No matter how talented you are, it'd be useless without the fans' support!"

"Mm, I know," Neil replied indifferently.

"Good." Shane was not assured. "I've sent the schedule for the next few days to your phone. Film festival's red carpet first, then judge in a variety talent show. There'll be lots of press crowding you in these two schedules. You know what to say by then!"

Neil nodded, still distracted.

Shane could only point it out to a certain extent. It was fortunate that Neil had never failed him at times when it mattered.

...

Two days later, on the red carpet of the film festival, Neil caused a bout of squeals and screams as soon as he appeared.

Just like Zephyr had said, his three-month absence in Centrolis had not reduced his popularity. Instead, the mysteriousness earned him more attention.

Aurelia was making soup in the kitchen currently, a new skill picked up from Helen recently. She wiped her sweat and adjusted to the lowest heat. She was cooking with the lowest heat now, so she only needed to keep an eye out on the side.

She had placed her phone on the stand while she made soup and casually played a video. It was unexpected that a familiar voice came from the video.

"Thank you for your concern. I've learned a lot about performing during my three months in Chaiseland. I hope I'll be able to present better work now that I'm back!"

Aurelia froze. She looked up at her phone. The man on the screen was poised. His perfect proportions and features looked like God had favored him.

"Mr. Harris, rumors have it that you have a fiancee in Chaiseland. This is also what the fans are concerned with... We wonder if the rumors are true." Aurelia's heart squeezed abruptly.

Neil looked unfazed in front of the cameras. The flashlights kept going off on him. Aurelia could hardly see him, but she heard his deep voice answer slowly, "I'm not answering this question. I hope to keep some privacy to myself."

The reporters paused before they whispered to each other. He wanted some privacy? It meant that the rumor did not come out of nowhere.

The reporters' interest was piqued as they pursued it. "Mr. Harris, someone's captured photos of a girl by your side upon your return to Centrolis via a private jet... Is that your fiancee?"

"Mr. Harris, you're already engaged. Why did you tell your fans that you're single?"

"Mr. Harris, please explain!"

Chapter 787

Chapter 787

Neil suppressed his emotions to maintain superficial politeness and courtesy. However, the reporters were relentless no matter how he diverted the topic. Some even began to make stories up right in front of him.

Neil looked at Shane, who shot him a look to ask him to hold it in.

"People!" Shane went up with a smile and put Neil behind him. "That's all for our interview today. It's the red carpet here. Let's not delay the interview coming up...'

"Does this mean that Mr. Harris really has a fiancee since he doesn't want to answer the question?"

"I said, this is my privacy!" Neil stopped in his tracks, and his gaze turned sharp. "I do not want to say more!"

"Are you feeling guilty about something since you're not answering?"

Even Shane, who had a mild temper, was provoked now. "What's up with you? Does Neil have to tell you every single one of his private affairs?"

"Mr. Harris' private affairs are the public affairs of his fans!" That particular reporter was triumphant. "If you don't explain it to the fans, I'm afraid this won't cut it. It'd be a disservice to everyone's constant support for you!"

"What? Say it again. I didn't hear you properly!"

Shane was a known name even before he became an agent. He had a bit of say in both the legal world and the gangs. Otherwise, he would not have been able to keep it smooth sailing for his artists for so many years.

He had always kept a civilized front, but now that someone was targeting Neil, there was no stopping him from rolling up his sleeves for a fight!

"Neil, step back!" Shane jutted his chin. "Leave this to me!"

"I think it's better that you step back."

Before Shane started anything, Neil had two fingers against his chest to nudge him back.

Neil's presence was commanding as his deep eyes gleamed with a reckless sneer.

"I'm only saying this once. I hope you listen carefully.

"First, my fans are rational and well-mannered. They won't hunt me down over some private affairs but focus on my acting and work. They give me sufficient respect and space, and I work hard to repay their support!

"Next, whether I have a fiancee or not, I'm not putting it out there for the public's gossip or for the conscienceless media's views.

He said with emphasis, gaze sharp on the reporter, "Lastly, anyone who dares make things up, I promise that you'll receive my lawyer's letter within three hours after the article's published. I'll see you in court!"

Cordelia hung out on the balcony on the rooftop with Zuko in the evening.

The sunset glow colored the sky golden pink while the night crept in. The air was summery, light and sweet.

She placed the baby in the stroller before she leaned against the rail to enjoy the momentary peace. The baby cried a while later, and she picked it up swiftly to coax it.

The moment Zuko was in his mother's arms, he stopped crying. He blinked big eyes at his mother as he whined.

Cordelia chuckled dryly and touched his little nose. "You naughty little boy. You aren't letting me rest at all, are you?"

"Hah! Hah!"

Helen brought fruit tea up to her and took the baby from her.

"Madam, take a break. I'll look after him!"

Cordelia smiled and massaged her sore shoulders.

She had gotten decent rest after the labor. There were plenty of service staff, and they hired the best nutritionist and caretaker in the industry, yet Cordelia still felt tired. It was both physical and mental. Her postpartum body was no longer like before. In addition to being a first-time mother, worry and anxiousness came after the initial excitement and joy.

Chapter 788

Chapter 788

Cordelia was always worrying and afraid, fretting that something was wrong with her baby. Sometimes, she was so anxious at night that she felt for her son's breathing from time to time.

Zuko clung to her especially much too, crying whenever he did not see his mother. Cordelia could not get away even if she wanted to.

"Motherhood's never easy!" Helen said with a grin, "Our baby Zuko's already very easy to handle! Right, there's a term for it online... angel baby!"

Cordelia chuckled. "Aunt Helen, you go online too?"

"Of course! I might be old, but I'm trendy! Just this afternoon, I went on social media!"

Cordelia grinned. It was no wonder she did not see her for the whole afternoon.

"Sigh, it's just my bad eyesight that I can't see some words clearly. I don't know if it helps Aurelia!"

"What?" Cordelia paused. "What does it have to do with Aurelia?"

"Oh, well..." Helen explained, "The child came to me during noon, panicky, and asked me to sign up dozens of accounts to help her publish posts! Almost got to her knees to beg me! She can only speak Acian but not write and barely can read. I taught her for quite some time!"

Cordelia was confused, listening until Helen showed her the phone. It was only then she figured the situation out.

The posts were right below the same video clip by different accounts but all Aurelia's tone of speech. The video clip was Neil's interview.

Neil was in Shane's office. Both of them spent a long time looking at their phones.

Shane had pulled several strings to cut the video clip's clout, but he was still amused by the posts he saw here and there.

There were a few of them that stood out.

[Disclaimer: I'm Neil Harris' friend. I can be witness that he absolutely does not have a fiancee!]

[I have insider news. Neil's not in any relationship. He has never lied to his fans. He's been sincere and open!]

[Me, me! I also know that the girl by his side isn't his fiancee! He doesn't like her! Please don't be misled by conscienceless paparazzi and misunderstand Neil! He's your best actor, always!] Shane could not help laughing.

"Hey, what fans do you have? Good job trying to get you out of this!"

Neil was silent. The complicated emotions in his eyes spread like ink.

With that awkward Acian, he knew right away that it was the girl! Not only had she left comments, but she also retorted to every post that was unkind to him. It was just that her Acian was so bad that her retorts read like an elementary school kid.

Neil rubbed his temples. The feeling of a rock weighing down his chest came to him again.

Aurelia probably did not know that his agency would take care of things like this and that his PR team was one of the best in the industry. She had signed up for so many accounts and left comment after comment, retorting post after post and bumping posts that got flooded by newer ones. She was using her clumsy ways to protect him stubbornly.

"Hey, look at this one!" Shane got to the last page.

The comments on that page were posted when the video clip had just been uploaded. People were influenced, fully criticizing Neil for disrespecting the reporter and not caring about his fans. Some even instigated that Neil's talent did not deserve such a reputation and that he was unworthy of his title as an award-winning actor.

There was also a rather insignificant comment on the same page, [He's the best uncle in the world. You can't say that about him!!]

Neil's gaze dimmed as his heart suddenly throbbed in pain.

Chapter 789

Chapter 789

There were numerous replies under that comment laughing at the poster for being an infatuated fangirl. However, Neil's hand stopped on the screen as his finger slowly glided over each word, like he was stroking her long, chestnut hair that was fluffy like a kitten's.

That account's username was Sunny...

Neil closed his eyes and exhaled a long breath.

"Say, Neil," Shane said with a lowered volume. "If you really don't feel like acting recently, I suggest that you go back to Southeast Aciatic for some time. Consider doing it for your family!" "What happened?"

"Well..." Shane hesitated before telling him, "I heard that the princess in Southeast Aciatic is asking about you again!"

Later, Cordelia sprawled on the bed in exhaustion after coaxing her son to sleep.

Zephyr came out from the bathroom and sat beside her to gently massage her shoulders.

"Oh, right here..." Cordelia exclaimed softly, "Harder!"

Zephyr froze before he chuckled. "I'm afraid that too hard will hurt you."

"No, it won't! I just want you to go harder... Hmm, that feels so good..."

Her moan was soft and pleased that Zephyr could hardly keep his control in check. If her "harder" and "so good" were not because he was massaging her shoulders but... it would be great! Zephyr smirked. As he thought about it, he inched closer to her.

Cordelia's voice was soft. "Darling, Zuko's only two months old. Why does each day feel like years... When he's growing up, so I don't have to carry him anymore?"

Even though she had help around her, Zuko only wanted Cordelia and could not bear to be separated for even a moment.

Moreover, the baby could eat, so his weight shot up, and his plump little arms and legs looked like the Michelin mascot.

Cordelia felt like her body was breaking apart, carrying him for the whole day. Her arms, especially, did not feel like hers anymore.

Zephyr raised his brows and spoke softly next to her ear. "Realize your husband's better than your son now, huh?"

"Huh? What?"

"Your husband doesn't need you to carry him!"

Cordelia paused before punching him with her dainty fists, giggling.

"Not only does your husband not need you to carry him, but he can also carry you when you're tired!"

Before Cordelia could react, the man had pulled her into his arms.

She had put on some weight after her labor. She was still slim where she was supposed to be, but where she was supposed to be voluptuous had gotten even bigger. In addition to her breastfeeding, she always smelled faintly of milk...

Zephyr buried his face in her chest. His mind went blank as blood rushed all the way south...

His hands that had been massaging her slid down her back to her waist and hips, groping. "Honey, can we... today?"

Urgent pants accompanied his husky voice, hitting Cordelia's heart like little pebbles. She could feel the heat and change of his body.

It had been months since they were intimate, and she actually yearned for him too...

Cordelia flushed red, pushing him twice halfheartedly before she completely surrendered to his kisses.

"Softer..." She held his roaming hand. "Don't wake Zuko up."

"Didn't he feed before he slept?"

"Yeah, but I'm still worried."

"That he's hungry?" Zephyr smirked. "Why aren't you worried about me getting hungry?"

"You..."

"So you should feed me now first!"

Zephyr flipped the blanket and covered both of them securely.

Even though Zephyr had been suppressing his urge for a long time, he was considerate of Cordelia's feelings and did not move too recklessly, trying his best to restrain himself. After all, this was her first time postpartum. Physically or psychologically, there ought to be an adapting process.

When they were done, Cordelia snuggled into his sweaty chest.

Zephyr had only gotten a taste, not thoroughly satiated as he used to be, but he was already in glee.

They should take things slow, and he should understand her. She was not just his wife now but also a mother. Zephyr smiled and kissed her forehead.

"Zuko's such a good boy." He looked at the baby cot. "He's so sound asleep and didn't even interrupt us!"

Cordelia pulled her pajamas over herself to feel their son's little hands, feet, and head before she flashed a relieved smile.

"What's wrong?" Zephyr was puzzled.

"Nothing," Cordelia answered with a smile. "He doesn't have a fever!"

"Darling... why would he have a fever?"

"I'm just worried!" Cordelia stuck her tongue out. She was pretty helpless about her anxious antics as well.

She was either feeling for the baby's breathing or his temperature. Everything was actually normal. Little Zuko ate, slept well, and had good lungs for crying, too-he was an incredibly healthy baby. "Cordelia." Zephyr felt both amused and bad. He went over to hold her shoulders. "You're being too stressed.

"You really don't have to worry about him so much. There are Hamerton ancestors who've been generals. Zuko has the genes, so he'll be fine!"

"Mm, I know, but I can't help it." Cordelia chuckled and leaned back into him. "It's only now that I understand how hard it is to be a mother... Thinking back now, my mom raised Carter and me alone, and in that environment. I wonder how she overcame it."

"Missing mom?"

Cordelia did not say anything but closed her eyes.

It was most probably because she had been too tired recently. Her sleep was light too, and she kept dreaming. Her dreams were all days when she was bullied back then.

Her mother had been mentally unwell, and they had not had the money to get her treated. Cordelia was so young, but she had had to take care of both her mother and younger brother, pinching every penny she had.

It was until she met Zephyr that she knew what it felt like to be spoiled and protected.

Her eyes felt wet as she hugged his neck. Sometimes, she felt like life was a gamble. Meeting the man and marrying him was the most successful bet she had made in her life.

Baby Zuko fussed and cried a little, prompting both of them to go over.

Zephyr changed his diaper, and Cordelia picked him up to feed him. Once the baby had his needs all fulfilled, he went back to sleep.

The husband and wife got ready for bed as well when Cordelia's phone rang all of a sudden.

"Who's calling so late at night?" She frowned and saw that it was a Southeast Aciatic number.

"Cordelia, I hope I'm not disturbing your rest?"

"Carter?" Cordelia was surprised. "Why are you calling at this hour?"

Carter's voice sounded off. "Mom's ill, Cordelia... Dad's putting everything off to keep her company. When... When can you make a trip to Southeast Aciatic?"

Chapter 790

Chapter 790

Cordelia's heart lurched. "Carter... tell me properly, how's mom?"

"Mom hasn't been feeling well the past two months. I don't know what illness it is in particular..." Carter's voice wavered. "Dad said that you were giving birth, so he didn't let me tell you. Cordelia, can you come?"

Cordelia bit her lips. Fear engulfed her like a monster with a wide, bloodied mouth.

Zephyr hugged her and took the phone, calmly telling Carter they would be back in Southeast Aciatic soon.

"Darling..." Cordelia was at a loss.

She had just been thinking about the hardship in the past, not expecting that the shadow those days left could never be wiped away.

"Don't worry," Zephyr comforted her softly. "Dad's a good doctor. He'll take good care of mom. I guess Carter's calling because he's so young and gets too nervous. It's always been you when mom was sick in the past. Now that you aren't around, he's lost his support."

Cordelia's eyes were rimmed red with glistening tears.

Zephyr hugged her, feeling his heart ache for her. He knew that no amount of comfort or coaxing would work. She would only be soothed when she was taken back to Southeast Aciatic for a visit personally as soon as possible.

Two days later, Cordelia and Zephyr arrived at the airport with Zuko.

Cordelia had felt a little guilty for leaving after a short time in Centrolis, worried that Liam would be angry. However, Liam frowned.

"What do you take me as? Of course you should go check on your mother when she's ill! Who knows? She might be happy and recover when you're back with my great-grandson!"

Cordelia was grateful for the old man's understanding.

Liam had even lent them his private jet.

His private jet had the best security in the whole Hamerton family. No one dared try tinkering with it. The pilot had more than 20 years of aviation experience, so everything was safe and secure. Cordelia carried Zuko and leaned against Zephyr's shoulder in the VIP lounge.

"Grandpa's so kind to me, yet I can't take care of him, and I'm taking you with me too..."

"That's silly of you to say." Zephyr chuckled. "Taking care of mom is our priority now. Grandpa's not insensible. Besides, do you think there's really no one to run the household without you in the Hamertons?" Cordelia gave it a thought. That was right. There were about a dozen experienced butlers who were capable and loyal like Clark in the household. The company also had a professional management team and plenty of talented individuals on the board of directors.

Liam had passed the family and business matters to her out of his affection and trust for her.

Cordelia smiled and looked up to rub noses with Zephyr.

This was the first time, postpartum, that she had taken the initiative to be intimate with him.

Zephyr looked delightfully surprised and adjusted himself to kiss her... when someone knocked on the door.

"Mr. and Mrs. Hamerton, there's someone for you!"

Cordelia was amused by Zephyr's scowl and pushed him away softly.

Zephyr gnashed his teeth. "I'm twisting the person's head off no matter who it is outside!"

The door opened, and Neil was standing outside.

Zephyr jolted.

Neil removed his sunglasses and hat before slowly entering the VIP lounge.

Cordelia was slightly surprised to see him. "Why are you here?"

"I heard that Aunt Xyla's ill. I'm going back to Southeast Aciatic with you!"

"You..."

"Don't worry." Neil smiled. "I've taken care of work here. I don't want to act for the time being, so I might as well spend some time back home!"

Cordelia nodded and kept her eyes on the door.

Aurelia was following her back to Southeast Aciatic this time. Aurelia had thought that the Centrolis airport was huge and beautiful with so many expensive-looking duty-free shops, and she did not want to be a third wheel, so she had gone out to walk around.

Cordelia was just about to discuss Aurelia's immigration status in Southeast Aciatic with Neil when the girl ran in excitedly.

"Cordelia, all the way over that side of the airport... there's a row of claw machines a whole row!"

As soon as she spoke, a cold voice retorted, "What's so exciting about claw machines?"