Ch. 991..1000

Chapter 991

Chapter 991

Lina knew she had misspoken and blinked, looking at her mother silently.

"Silly girl!" Melissa was exasperated, pulled her to the living room, and spoke in a low voice. "Do you have feelings for him?"

"I do... so what?" Lina lowered her head as if she had done something wrong, but her expression was one of stubbornness. "W-We have a marriage certificate..." "Have you lost your mind!?" Melissa poked her with a finger. "That marriage certificate is fake!"

"Mom, lower your voice!" said Lina.

"Lina!" Melissa sounded almost mournful.

It felt like the beautiful flower she had planted was snatched together with its pot. The daughter she had painstakingly brought up was going to be stolen!

"I know what's in your mind. That's why I'm training him!" Melissa lowered her voice and patiently explained to her, "If we train him well now, he'll listen to you in the future, and you two will be happy!"

"Huh?" Lina was taken aback.

Melissa chuckled, adoring and helpless against her daughter. "How could I do anything to harm you? I just want a good man who treats you well and can spoil you forever, like how your dad and I would. If it's hard to find such a man, then I'll transform one for you! Look, Zeke is a great candidate for the transformation!"

"Mom..." Lina's emotions were complicated as she glanced quietly at the kitchen.

Zuko was exerting all his strength to clean the fish, splashing water everywhere. It was a fierce battlefield! Melissa exclaimed, "Oh no!"

She then hurriedly ran over. Before long, her scolding could be heard coming from the kitchen like a barrage.

"Just because I didn't keep my eye on you for a moment, you start causing trouble!

"Zeke, how much water did you waste? Double the amount in the living expenses you pay me this month!

"You won't have dinner tonight!"

Lina knew her mother's temper well when it flared up. All she could do was watch from afar and silently pray in her heart.

During dinner, Zuko obediently went to sit outside in the entryway.

However, Melissa set his plate and cutlery on the table and filled a large share of food for him, asking Lina to call him inside after that.

Lina happily agreed, feeling like a blissful little bird.

Zuko was somewhat surprised, but Lina's small hand on his arm and the warmth of her touch caused his heart to flutter involuntarily. He maintained a neutral expression, but there were ripples in his heart. Lina sat him down on a chair, and the whole family gathered around the round table with steaming hot dishes on it.

There was also a glass of wine, which Jesse had pushed over.

Across from him, Dave had a playful expression, while Melissa's gaze seemed serious but held a hidden smile.

Beside him, Lina's soft body occasionally brushed against his.

Zuko was momentarily dazed.

At that moment, he genuinely felt like changing his name to Zeke and becoming Lina's Zeke...

"Zeke, why are you daydreaming?" Melissa called out to him.

Zuko snapped back to reality. Just as he was about to pick up his cutlery, Melissa scooped a large piece of fish for him. "Have more, have more!"

"Uh..."

Melissa's grin was wide as she showered praises. "Let me tell you all, Zeke cut the onions and prepared the fish! He has half of the credit for tonight's meal!" "Ah, really? Then I'll eat more!" Dave immediately started to dig in, only for Melissa to slap his hand.

"You! All you know is to eat! Your brother-in-law hasn't even started yet!"

Dave stared at his mother in disbelief. "Mom?"

"Oh, no, no!" Melissa quickly corrected herself. "It's Zeke... Zeke hasn't eaten! Zeke, hurry up and start!"

Lina's face had long turned red-even the tips of her ears were red.

Chapter 992

Chapter 992

Zuko turned to look at the young woman beside him and felt that she was like a cherry blossom, delicate and captivating.

At that moment, a subconscious voice suddenly asked him, 'Do you still remember Pammy?'

Zuko's hands trembled slightly, and he quickly shoveled food into his mouth to conceal his absent-mindedness. 'Pammy...'

Had Pammy still been there, would he have fulfilled the marriage agreement with the Thompsons long ago, gradually taken over the Hamerton Group, and become a good husband and father?

Meanwhile, he was now in Jangasas as Zeke Hamerton. He had shed the husk of Zuko, but he knew that he would forever be in Pammy's shadow.

Actually, he had told himself many times that Pammy was only five years old when she went missing, and he was just a child. How could a child have such deep feelings? He should not have cared so much. For some reason, every time he saw Lina, her innocent smile, her soft voice, and her pouts when she was teased, he could not help but think of Pammy.

Zuko wondered if this was some kind of psychological illness.

He sighed softly and took the initiative to bring the dishes to the kitchen after finishing the meal.

Lina was about to turn on the faucet when Zuko gently blocked her hand. "The water's cold. I'll do the dishes."

Lina was taken aback.

Melissa was filled with joy. She did not expect her transformation attempt to be so successful! Zeke was already taking the initiative to do chores. She exchanged a glance with Jesse and smiled as they walked over.

"You two don't have to do it. Your father and I are in the kitchen! Lina, it's still early. Why don't you take Zeke for a walk by the seaside?"

Zuko and Lina were both stunned for a moment. Then, Melissa pushed them out of the front door.

The two of them stood there, staring at each other and feeling a bit awkward.

"You go first," said Zuko.

"You... You first." Lina followed behind him like a dutiful wife.

Zuko put his hands in his pockets and walked ahead with big strides. The streetlamp elongated their shadows-Zuko's shadow covered Lina's, and only the moonlight could see the smile on her face. They were walking slowly toward the alley when Dave suddenly ran over from that direction. "Door Guardian, bro! Someone's looking for you!"

"What?"

"Just over there!" Dave pointed nearby.

A tall figure stood in the dim light outside the alley.

Lina couldn't see clearly but sensed an air of affluence emanating from the silhouette.

Zuko quickly approached and asked, "Why are you here?"

Jacob glanced in Lina's direction, seeing her hesitation about whether to come closer or not.

He joked, "Why isn't she getting closer? I want a better look!"

Zuko gave him a sharp look in response.

Jacob quickly changed the subject. "So... have you eaten?"

Zuko responded with a monotonous sound.

Jacob furrowed his brows. "Did you have onions?"

Zuko glanced at him.

"Didn't you used to dislike anything with a strong smell?" Jacob asked.

"I used to dislike paying attention to you too, but here we are, talking," Zuko retorted.

Jacob was rendered speechless, scratching his head and awkwardly laughing. "Why did you come to find me?" asked Zuko.

"Oh!" Jacob snapped back to his senses and quickly took out his phone. "I wanted to show you this!"

Zuko leaned over and saw several photos. They were all chat records between Violet and someone else.

Chapter 993

Chapter 993

Zuko was bewildered. The indecent conversation and crude language stung his eyes.

Zuko scoffed. "What's this!?"

Jacob told him truthfully, "This is chat records between Violet and a male escort."

Zuko was taken aback, his expression changing. "A male escort?"

"Yes." Jacob chuckled. "The kind of men in nightclubs who are handsome and have hot bodies specifically to entertain wealthy women."

Zuko felt a wave of nausea. "Violet has such a fetish?"

"I didn't believe it at first either." Jacob shrugged, his expression complicated. "She doesn't have a good reputation in the circle, but I couldn't believe she'd stoop so low as to hire male escorts. Then I..." "You tried it out yourself?" Zuko's sharp eyes immediately saw through it.

Jacob froze, his expression complex as he nodded. Then he explained the whole process to Zuko, "I heard that she likes to hire male escorts, so I registered an account and pretended to be one to chat with her. Unexpectedly, she took the bait! She's been trying to meet up with me these past few days!"

Zuko was dumbfounded, unable to hide the twitching of his lips.

"And using that account, I also approached several real male escorts." Jacob continued. "Those guys have served Ms. Grist before. People like them always keep something up their sleeves, so they have a lot of dirt on Violet. This chat record screenshot is just the tip of the iceberg!"

Zuko glanced at him. "So, Violet isn't the wealthy goody-two-shoes like how she portrays herself to be online. She's deceived her fans!"

Jacob nodded. "That's right."

Zuko snorted coldly.

Violet Grist was not only arrogant and conceited but also foolish. Dealing with someone like her would not be difficult at all.

Zuko would first ruin her public image to get even on Lina's behalf.

"I need your help with this matter," Zuko said in a low voice. "Make sure it's done perfectly. It's time to remove the goody-two-shoes mask!" "Got you." Jacob smiled. "I know what to do. I'll make sure your little bunny is happy!"

Zuko did not expect his thoughts to be seen through so quickly, so he glowered.

"Aww, bro..." Jacob teased him, "I've sacrificed big time! I even turned myself into a male escort. Tell me, how do you plan to thank me?" Zuko was about to reply with a "get lost", but a soft voice came from behind him before he could speak. "Zeke, is this your friend?"

"Huh?" Jacob was startled by her sudden appearance.

On the other hand, Zuko remained calm as he looked at Lina and nodded lightly.

Jacob grinned awkwardly and approached Lina, intending to shake her hand, but Zuko glared at him.

"Hello, hello..." Jacob withdrew his hand but did not know where to place it. "I'm Jacob Welsh. I'm—"

Lina's expression was serious but polite. "Mr. Welsh, you look handsome for sure, but this line of work is not a long-term plan. You ought to consider your future."

"Huh?" Jacob did not understand what she meant.

However, he saw Lina holding onto Zuko's arm and standing beside him, looking dainty as if she was a helpless little bird relying on him.

"Mr. Welsh, Zeke is honest and reliable and only suitable for honest work. Heh, I suppose you two don't share the same goals...

"In the future, he'll also be prioritizing family and will definitely not engage in any indecorous activities!" Lina's throat felt dry. She looked up at Zuko as if seeking confirmation and asked him softly, "Right, Zeke?"

Zuko was momentarily stunned.

A split second later, he and Jacob realized something-Lina must have heard them mentioning the words 'male escort' just now!

Chapter 994

Chapter 994

Lina had not just heard them. It was obvious she had also misunderstood-evident from her gaze on Jacob!

Zuko could not help but burst into laughter.

Jacob panicked and was about to explain, but Zuko interrupted him. "Yeah, Jacob, don't come looking for me anymore! I really can't do that kind of thing you mentioned!"

Jacob was at a loss for words.

'Damn it!' Jacob widened his eyes, doubtful and exasperated.

Lina's heart warmed, and she tightened her grip on Zuko's arm.

Zuko smiled at her, then fixed his serious gaze on Jacob. "I know you wanted me to join you in this line of work back when we were in there. But Jacob, what Lina said is right. Being a male escort isn't a long- term thing!"

"Zu-"

"Perhaps you should also consider your own future!"

Jacob's nostrils flared as he panted heavily.

Zuko struggled to contain his laughter, feeling his stomach ache. He confidently led Lina to stroll by the seaside, leaving the shocked Jacob.

Not long after they left, Zuko's phone buzzed incessantly with messages. Jacob: [Hamerton, you owe me compensation for damages to my reputation!] Jacob: [Bro, I'm begging you, explain to Lina. How am I a f*cking male escort?!] Jacob: [You've completely destroyed my lifelong innocence in just one night!]

Zuko chuckled softly and replied: [Handle Violet's matter nicely, and I'll consider clearing your name!]

He then turned off his phone and focused on accompanying Lina to watch the sea.

The deep blue ocean connected with the night sky, with countless stars intertwined with the distant lights.

Zuko glanced down and saw that the girl's hand was still linked with his arm, unsure if she had forgotten it or if she had done it intentionally. He preferred to believe it was the latter. He chortled, and the sound reminded Lina.

She paused briefly with a blush and released her hand, softly apologizing, "I'm sorry, I forgot."

Zuko suddenly felt like the air had lost its sweetness.

Lina looked into his eyes. "Um... Also, was I rude to your friend just now?"

"No, why would you say that?" he asked.

Lina elaborated, "I shouldn't judge your relationship based on his occupation as a male escort. Everyone has their own way of making a living. Maybe he has his reasons for being one!" "Or maybe, he has willingly chosen to follow that profession." Zuko continued to smile.

Jacob had always been quick-witted back in university, and Zuko had never won an argument against him. Zuko never expected he would be able to tease him like this one day! "Alright, let's not talk about him anymore," Zuko said softly. "It's getting late. Let's go back and rest."

Lina nodded.

This time she walked in front with him watching her from behind.

Zuko's phone vibrated again. It was another message from Jacob.

Jacob: [Bro, you nearly flummoxed me tonight. There's something important I didn't mention... I visited Centrolis a few days ago, and your parents hope you can go back for a visit!]

Chapter 995

Chapter 995

Zuko paused and called Jacob. "What happened at home?"

"It's not your family," Jacob replied in a low voice. "It's the Thompsons."

"The Thompsons?"

"It seems... it's about the little girl betrothed to you in childhood," Jacob said hastily. "I couldn't inquire too much about your family matters. Just make a trip back."

"Okay, got it," replied Zuko, agreeing and ending the call.

Lina was walking ahead and did not hear him making the call. The night enveloped her joyful figure as she occasionally turned around and waved at him.

Zuko spent the next two days contemplating how to take a "leave" from the Jenners. After much consideration, he decided to be honest. "My younger brother called and said there's something going on at home. He wants me to go back for a while. I won't be away for long, just two or three days, and I'll definitely rush back."

After speaking, Zuko looked directly at Jesse and Melissa, who were standing in front of him. They both stared at him intently for a moment before exchanging a smile and nodding.

Zuko was taken aback. In the blink of an eye, the couple swept the shelves clean and packed everything into a large duffle bag.

"Sir, ma'am, you-"

"Zeke!" Jesse looked at him, beaming. "We got nothing much for you to take home, but we run a supermarket. We have plenty to eat and drink!"

Melissa also smiled warmly. "That's right. You can bring these to the in-laws- Oh no, no, I mean to your parents as a small token of our regard!"

Zuko was dumbfounded.

The couple acted as if the goods were free, filling the bag with staple foods and various snacks-two big bags of them. Even when they could not fit more inside, Melissa still managed to squeeze in a few bags of calcium-rich crackers for the elderly...

Zuko looked at the empty shelves and the couple's satisfied expressions, feeling both speechless and touched.

"You don't need to do this..."

"Why not?" they said in unison.

"Zeke, when are you leaving? We'll help carry these to the train for you if it's too much!"

Zuko felt like telling them a private plane was coming to pick him up.

"By the way, where's your family located?"

Zuko hesitated for a moment and answered softly, "Centrolis."

As soon as they heard the name, Jesse and Melissa fell silent. They had always been in sync for so many years, never mentioning the place "Centrolis" in front of Lina. It was because they had stolen their daughter from there.

They stubbornly believed that even though a little girl did not have memories, they might rush forth like a torrential flood-unstoppable once a certain point triggered those memories.

They wanted to keep Lina by their side for the rest of their lives, so they never mentioned the word "Centrolis" in front of her.

It was just that not mentioning it did not mean it did not exist. After all, a person from Centrolis was standing before them right now.

Melissa was concerned. Apart from telling Zuko to return quickly, she repeatedly reminded him that there was no need to let Lina know about it.

"Lina's preparing for some kind of exam and is studying intensively. She's quite nervous, and it might distract her if you tell her!" said Melissa. Although Zuko found it strange, he complied.

The next day, he carried the bags and hopped into the car waiting for him at the alley entrance early in the morning while the family was still asleep as if he was a thief. He headed straight for the airport.

...

Toph was overjoyed when he heard that his brother had returned. When he heard that his brother had gone straight to the kitchen instead of going to see their parents, he found it unbelievable and hurried over to take a look.

"Zuko!?" Toph was dumbfounded seeing the floor covered in pasta, grains, snacks, and drinks. "What... is the situation?"

Zuko was directing the servants to put the things in place.

"Nothing." He glanced at Toph indifferently. "Just something for our parents."

Toph looked at him as if he were an alien before he suddenly burst into laughter. "You? Being nice to them? If you don't anger them to death, that's already nice enough! Do you really need to bring these with you?"

Zuko raised his hand, prepared to resort to violence.

"What? Did I say something wrong?" Like when they were younger, Toph tickled Zuko in the armpits when he was about to hit him. "You were like this when you were younger! You do exactly the opposite of what our parents ask, and you just left for Jangasas this time! Do you know how much effort I had to put in to appease our elderly parents?"

Zuko's hand, which was about to strike, landed on Toph's head and rubbed it hard. His stern face showed a hint of a smile.

Toph kicked the bucket of peanut oil beside him and asked in a low voice, "Zuko, where did you get these miscellaneous brands? Are they edible? Don't get food poisoning from them!"

"You..."

Chapter 996

Chapter 996

Zuko glared at Toph. Before he could say anything, Wendy, the nanny who had been taking care of them since they were little, came over with a smile. "Mr. Toph, this brand is decent. It's cheap and has a large volume. It's economical! I'll use this to fry sometime for you both tonight!"

"Don't use this one first!" Zuko said in a serious manner.

"Huh?"

"Uh, I mean..." Zuko rubbed his nose with an evasive gaze. "Don't use it up too quickly!"

Wendy was confused. It was not like the Hamertons could not afford the peanut oil, but she nodded anyway.

Zuko watched the servants put the items away, neatly kept in the cabinets according to his request, like he was watching over some treasure, and flashed a pleased smile.

"I'm going to see our parents," he said and left, leaving Toph and Wendy stunned.

Wendy asked, "Mr. Toph, what's gotten into him? When have either of you come into the kitchen and got concerned over how things are kept since you were kids?"

Toph had always been smart. In addition to Jacob's visit a few days ago and finding out from him the little news of his elder brother in Jangasas, he quickly pieced the clues together.

"No need to find it odd." Toph smiled. "I think Zuko's not only presentable outside but can make himself useful in the kitchen too now!"

"What? Aren't there people serving him in Jangasas' villa!?"

"He might not be staying there!"

"You mean..." Wendy felt bad. "He's having a hard time in Jangasas?"

Toph thought about it and grinned. "Probably enjoying it, though!"

Wendy could not understand him and sighed with a shake of her head before she went off to work.

The chauffeur came over to pick up Zuko. He traveled over half a Hamerton Manor to arrive at Zen Residence, where his parents lived. Robert came out to welcome him and asked him to wait before going upstairs with a smile.

Zuko was confused. "Why?"

"You can go up too, Mr. Zuko, but don't disturb them first," replied Robert.

Zuko understood it right away. His parents must be publicly displaying their affection for each other, so no one could interrupt them.

He went upstairs quietly and came to the glasshouse on the top floor. Cordelia and Zephyr were coming up with new desserts there. Zuko took a glance.

Zephyr was fighting with a glob of cream and was unable to pipe his desired effect despite many attempts. Cordelia looked at him with harmless disdain and complained about him being slow before putting her hand over his with a smile to help him pipe the cream on the cake.

Small pink flowers were piped on the white cake, looking refreshing and pretty. There was some cream left after they decorated the cake, so Zephyr swiped some on Cordelia's nose. The two of them then messed with each other in the glasshouse.

Zuko was actually moved, watching from afar.

The villa's top floor did not have this glasshouse when he was younger.

One day, Cordelia spoke about the days she and Zephyr used to run a cafe in Jangasas and smiled incredibly, blissfully talking about it. Zephyr's eyes were naturally stuck on her when she spoke. That was how he remembered what she said and immediately asked for the design and construction to be done, building a big and beautiful glasshouse patisserie kitchen on the top of the villa.... Zuko could never forget the surprise, excitement, and bliss on his mother's face when she saw the dazzling glasshouse. She had turned to throw herself into his father's arms, turning into a young girl in love once more at that moment. His father had held her gently, his doting gaze exclusively on her.

Zuko breathed out a long sigh and smiled helplessly. He and Toph had endured too many public displays of affection from their parents since they were kids. He had already surrendered to this reality-his parents were true love, while he and Toph were simply accidents!

"Who's outside?" Cordelia's voice sounded suddenly.

Zephyr went to open the door and abruptly met his son's gaze.

To make his wife happy, he was smudged with cream like Santa Claus...

Zuko burst out laughing, unable to help it.

"Why didn't you let us know you're coming back!?" Zephyr glared and smacked him. "And you're hiding at a spot like this. What if you scared your mother?"

"Hey, I'm not that fragile!" Cordelia forgot her husband when she saw her son. "Zuko, come have a taste. I just made this cake!"

"Darling, isn't it for me?" complained Zephyr.

"How old are you? Why are you fighting over it with your son!?" retorted Cordelia.

"I..." Zephyr stood rooted as he watched Zuko take the cherry blossom cake away and even turn around to make a funny face at him.

Chapter 997

Chapter 997

Zuko lazily leaned back on the sheepskin sofa.

The servant had already prepared his usual hand-brewed Yirgacheffe coffee, and the aroma filled his nose, making him feel like he was in a dream.

In the dream, he was in Jangasas. Now that he woke up from the dream, he was back in Centrolis.

"How is it, Zuko?" Cordelia asked with a smile, "Is the cake delicious?"

Zuko nodded, pretending that it was tasty. In truth, he did not have much, as he did not enjoy sweet things.

He had heard that his father did not like sweets either, but his mother did, so he followed suit. Then his mother started calling him "Bald Meatball".

Zuko chuckled. His father had actually aged quite well compared to his peers. The Hamertons had good genes in that regard. Even in his middle age, Zephyr was a tall and handsome middle-aged man with a touch of mature charm.

Zuko sat up and asked, "Dad, mom, what happened that I'm needed back so urgently?"

Zephyr looked at him and asked in a low voice, "Jacob didn't tell you?"

"He was quite vague and said it's not something that can be explained in a few words," replied Zuko.

"Mm, that's true. It's got to do with Pamela." Zephyr's gaze was deep as he looked at Zuko silently, his voice soft but deliberate. "Son, your Uncle Nicholas has found Pammy."

"What!?" Zuko was stunned.

"Our reaction was the same as yours when we received the news," said Cordelia. "But after the initial excitement and joy, we found it quite unbelievable when we calmed down and thought about it."

Zuko furrowed his brows. "Who found her?"

"It's a younger cousin of Nicholas. His name is Melvin Thompson."

"On what grounds do they claim that the girl they found is Pammy?"

"That's the part we have doubts about as well!"

Zephyr dismissed all the servants and asked Robert to keep watch outside-even Toph was not allowed to enter. Only the three of them remained in the spacious living room. Zephyr took out a copy of a DNA report and handed it to his son.

Zuko had studied both schools of medicine from his grandfather and on his own, so reading a report was no big deal. As he read through it, his brows furrowed tightly. "Where did this report come from?" "Melvin took Pammy for it." Cordelia explained the whole story to Zuko, "The person who abducted Pammy was one of the survivors of the shipwreck, but he didn't escape legal punishment. He was sentenced to death, and Melvin met him before the execution. He told Melvin that a couple took Pammy away back then, and her fate was unknown..."

Zuko finally understood why the Thompsons had never given up on searching for Pammy all these years. There was really a glimmer of hope.

"So, Melvin had been searching all these years following this lead, and he actually found her!"

Zuko asked in a low voice. "Dad, Mom, have Aunt Zennie and Uncle Seth seen this report?" "They have," said Zephyr. "But there's no problem with the report itself."

Cordelia glanced at him and continued. "There wouldn't be a problem with the report. The problem lies with the person who did the test. As such, the best solution now is to get Pammy to the hospital we invested in and have our own people do another DNA test for her!"

"Uncle Nicholas won't agree, will he?" asked Zuko.

"Of course he won't!" Zephyr shook his head. "They're both exhilarated. They haven't slept well for several nights! Nicholas even said he wants to give 1/3 of Sol Entertainment's shares to Melvin as a token of gratitude!"

"No way!" Zuko said, taken aback.

Sol Entertainment was built out of Nicholas and Linda's hard work. Previously, no one from the Thompsons wanted to associate with them, and now they wanted a share? It was still uncertain whether the girl they had found was the real Pammy!

Zuko bit his lip as he carefully put away the DNA report. He fell silent for a moment before saying, "Those directly involved in the matter are often the most blinded. It's only observers like us who can see the problem."

"Yes!" Cordelia worriedly said, "Your father and I are concerned, but we don't know what to do. If it really is Pammy, then it's a cause for celebration. But if it's not, it'll be another blow to Linda." Zuko remained silent, lost in his thoughts.

If it really was Pammy, would he have to fulfill that engagement? It was just that he could not help the heartache when he thought of Lina.

Chapter 998

Chapter 998

"Zuko? Zuko!" Cordelia called Zuko a few times before he snapped out of his trance. Before he could speak, Zephyr gave his leg a light kick.

"What are you thinking about?" His father's deep and stern voice echoed. "Your mother's talking to you, and you dare to be distracted!?"

Zuko shrank into himself and looked at his mother for help.

"Our son just came back. Stop nagging him!" Cordelia looked like she was scolding Zephyr, but she hooked her hand over his arm and smiled. "You can't always be so angry, or you'll get more wrinkles!" Zephyr smiled as well as he held a hand over Cordelia's gently.

Zuko felt like he was redundant there.

"Dad, mom, uh, I—"

"You're not allowed to leave! Your mother isn't done!" Zephyr shot him another glare.

Zuko sat still obediently.

"Zuko, I've discussed it with your father," Cordelia said softly. "Stay a few more days in Centrolis and take some time out to visit the Thompsons to take a look at Pammy."

"What?"

Zuko was bewildered but quickly understood what they meant. He realized that he should visit Pammy. Their families had a close bond, and there was a marriage agreement between them in the past. Considering the connection they shared during their childhood, it was only right for him to visit his little playmate as well.

Zuko nodded, but his expression was not quite natural.

"Twenty years ago, when Pammy was born not too long after, I would often go to keep Linda company," Cordelia said softly. "We used to bathe her together, and I remember she had a light crescent-shaped birthmark on her waist. I recall telling Linda how fortunate it was that the birthmark wasn't on her face, considering its size."

Zephyr paused, contemplating the words. "Yeah, I've heard Nicholas mention it. He believes it's a good omen, a sign of prosperity, that she's blessed and won't have to worry about finances!" "When Linda told us about finding Pammy days earlier, I specifically asked her about the birthmark..."

"What did she say?"

Cordelia sighed. "Linda said she checked. There is a crescent-shaped birthmark on the waist. The same spot and even bigger with age."

Zephyr looked somber as he could not get rid of the skepticism in his mind.

Meanwhile, Zuko did not say anything, obviously distracted.

Cordelia could see that something was troubling him. "Zuko, is there anything... you're occupied with at Jangasas?"

Zuko raised his brows and forced a smile. "No."

"Your Uncle Fredric's case doesn't actually require you to find out anything," Zephyr said flatly. "Might as well stay home and not go back there. I'll guide you in familiarizing yourself with the Hamerton Group's business, and you-"

"No!" Zuko sprang up.

How could he not return? Who would be that family's door guardian if he did not go back? What if Violet bullied a certain someone again if he stayed here...

In spite of it, he could not tell his parents all this. He could only stand there in desperation, saying nothing else after the loud no.

Cordelia and Zephyr stared at him. Seeing her husband start to scowl again, Cordelia quickly tugged his hand.

"Alright, we'll talk about this again," she said kindly. "Our son's grown up now. He has his own world. He's still young, so let him go about his business for two more years!"

Her words were Zephyr's command. He hummed while staring at his son for a while and took Cordelia back for some rest.

Zuko stood alone for some time before he left and went to the small villa next door. It was actually his study room, a limited edition original books taking up the first three floors of it.

Chapter 999

Chapter 999

The fourth floor was Zuko's "observatory deck".

When he was young, he loved stargazing, so his father had built this observatory for him.

A huge globe was in the center of the room, and a Hubble telescope stood by the window. This was Zuko's private sanctuary.

He had sensitive and vulnerable phases during his adolescence too, and when he could not resolve his troubles, he would come to this observatory and entrust his worries to the distant stars. He once again stood in front of the telescope.

He had heard that wormholes in space were real and could connect two distant points in time and space. In that case, could he travel through a wormhole and go back to the day when Pammy disappeared? He really wanted to see who had taken her away.

It was the weekend. It was drizzling in Centrolis, while Jangasas enjoyed clear skies.

Lina stretched lazily, wearing a simple T-shirt and wide-leg pants, as she went downstairs to help Melissa prepare breakfast.

Melissa looked her up and down as if she could not recognize her. "When did you become so nice to help your mom out in the kitchen?"

Lina blushed and smiled playfully as she leaned toward Melissa.

"Go away!" Melissa feigned annoyance but was extremely pleased deep down. "Don't be a bother. I'm frying here, and it's greasy. Just wait outside to eat!"

"Mom, let me help you do it!"

"Missy, there's no need for that!" Melissa smiled.

Melissa had only taught her daughter the most basic cooking skills, just enough to fill her stomach, growing up. For more difficult tasks like frying, she would not let Lina try in case she hurt her hands. It would be more painful than if Melissa herself got injured.

Sometimes, Jesse would advise her to teach their daughter more things, or she would not even know how to cook a decent meal when she got married. What would happen if her in-laws looked down on her? Upon hearing that, Melissa would glare at him. "Why should the daughter I pamper growing up cook for her in-laws?! In the future, Lina's husband must cook for her for the rest of their lives!" Jesse could say nothing and only laugh at her unreasonableness.

Melissa had a proud look on her chubby face as she said, "Don't worry. I'll definitely teach our daughter everything I've learned, but it must be done slowly! Besides, I'm teaching her these things not for her to serve her in-laws or husband but to give her the ability to survive when she has no one to rely on!"

As long as Lina still considered her as her mother, she was willing to pamper her every day.

Melissa hummed a tune and fried the crullers with even more enthusiasm. These were filled with cheese and bacon, which Lina loved the most.

Lina was "mercilessly" chased out of the kitchen by her mother, so she could only lean against the doorframe to chat with her.

However, the shrewd Melissa quickly noticed that no matter what her daughter said, the topic always revolved around that Hamerton boy.

"I've been going to the store to help out these past few days, and I see dad struggling to move the goods. Well, if Zeke were here, dad wouldn't have to work so hard, right?"

Melissa glanced at her and concealed a smile.

"By the way, mom, did Zeke not say when he'll be back?"

Melissa focused on frying the crullers and did not respond.

Lina mumbled to herself, "I remember you said he'd be back in two or three days, but it's already the fourth day... Why hasn't he..."

Melissa turned off the heat and said, looking up at her, "Are you worried?"

Lina hesitated, unable to form a complete sentence. Finally, she casually made up an excuse. "I... I'm just worried that dad will be exhausted working alone! If Zeke is there, at least he can lend a hand!"

"Oh, so you're worried your father will get tired?" Melissa smiled. "Don't worry. Your father won't get tired! Zeke rarely goes home, so his parents would want him to stay for a few days! I've already told him about it and told him to spend two weeks at home!"

"What?" Lina couldn't help but exclaim, her voice filled with surprise. She quickly lowered her head and lightly bit her lip.

Chapter 1000

Chapter 1000

Melissa had already seen through her daughter's thoughts. As someone who had gone through similar experiences, how could she not understand what the little girl was thinking at this time? But until everything settled and before Zeke was successfully trained, she could not let her daughter get too deeply involved.

"Alright, alright. Go and call your father and Dave for breakfast!" Melissa said, and Lina obeyed, looking a bit listless. Melissa smiled and whispered, "Since you're missing him so much, take some time to give him a call and ask when he'll be back! Asking him yourself is much more effective than us asking a hundred times."

"Mom!" Lina felt a little embarrassed. "What are you saying? I don't miss him!"

"Alright, if you say so," Melissa said affectionately. "Anyway, I've taught you a way. Whether you do it or not is up to you!"

Lina blushed and lowered her head, chuckling softly. Although she denied it verbally, her spirits noticeably lifted. She skipped away to call her father and look for Dave in the yard.

She took the opportunity to do a stretching exercise, raising her arms to prevent excess fat from accumulating around her waist. As she lifted her arms, her already short T-shirt became even shorter, revealing glimpses of her slender waist.

Melissa came out holding a plate and started nagging. "Oh, you silly girl! Wearing such a short shirt, aren't you afraid of catching a cold?"

The quick-witted Dave took action to defend his sister. "Mom, you don't understand. It's a fashion trend now! Wearing a short top with high-waisted pants makes the legs look longer! Many girls in our class dress like this!"

"Your sister already has long legs and doesn't need to accentuate them!" Melissa scolded with a smile, "Besides, your brother-in-law is an honest person. He definitely wouldn't like your sister dressed like this!" The dining table instantly fell quiet as soon as those words were uttered. Dave secretly glanced at Lina and smirked mischievously. "Sis, isn't that the door guardian? Why does mom always say he's my brother-in-law?"

"Enough, eat your food!" Melissa raised her spoon and lightly tapped his head.

The whole family burst into laughter.

Then, Melissa suddenly seemed to remember something and turned to Lina, her gaze falling on her waist.

"Eh? Lina!" She asked, "I just realized... Where did the birthmark on your waist go?"

"Birthmark?" Lina looked down and smiled in embarrassment. "Mom... I didn't tell you about this. I... I wanted to look prettier, so I had cosmetic surgery to remove the birthmark."

"What!?"

Lina chuckled softly. "Gia went with me. She wanted to get her nose done too, so we went together! She was the one who found the aesthetic center, and we both received a 20% discount as a referral bonus!" "You... Why didn't you tell me about such a big thing!?" Melissa exclaimed, her concern evident in her voice. She was only thinking about the possibility of Lina experiencing pain. "The birthmark was on your waist, not your face. How did it offend you?"

"It didn't look good!" Lina took a big sip of milk. "I don't get to wear a lot of clothes, and Gia said it didn't look good either!"

"Stop hanging out with that Gia! Just because she said it didn't look good to her doesn't mean it didn't look good!" Melissa pursed her lips and muttered under her breath, "The first time I saw her, I already knew she was not a good influence. She's the one who doesn't look good!"

"Mom!" Lina smiled helplessly.

Growing up, Melissa had always been incredibly protective of Lina. Sometimes, Lina felt that her mother's protectiveness was excessive. For example, when it came to making friends, she couldn't understand why her mother strongly disliked Gia. Whenever she asked, her mother couldn't provide a clear explanation. It seemed to be a matter of intuition, something only a middle-aged woman could understand. Despite that, Lina enjoyed hanging with Gia and was grateful for all the times the latter had helped her.

"Lina, don't mind your mother." Jesse joked with a squint, "Your mother doesn't like your friend simply because her family's poor. Your mom loves money!"

"Jesse Jenner! Your mouth never stops even when you're eating!" Melissa immediately raised her voice. "I don't dislike her because she doesn't have money! Not at all! I sent our daughter to an elite university so she could broaden her horizons and study abroad in the future. But Gia's family? They sent their daughter there to fish for a rich husband!

"Can that be considered beneficial for the mind? Can it be considered a noble pursuit?"

"Of course not!" Jesse raised his hands in surrender, hoping his wife would eat more and speak less. "Alright, alright, I misspoke. Just focus on eating peacefully. Our daughter will not only study abroad and broaden her horizons, but she'll also be able to find a wealthy husband! How about that?"

Only then did Melissa reveal a hint of a smile.

Jesse quickly took the opportunity and served his wife dinner, not daring to relax for a moment.

Lina could not help but burst into laughter, looking quite envious. She lowered her head and quietly looked at her phone as she suddenly received a message.

She looked at the name, and her heart started pounding.

Opening the message, Zuko had sent only four words: [What are you doing?]

Lina felt like she had cotton candy stuck in her heart, feeling overwhelmed by the sweetness. She could not even focus on eating her sweet roll. After much deliberation over her words, she finally replied. [Having a meal.]

She added two more words to make it more reciprocal and less deliberate. [And you?]

After sending the message, she quickly put her phone on silent mode and locked the screen. However, she could not resist for more than ten seconds before unlocking it again. Another message from Zeke had arrived.

[I'm home watching my parents show affection.]

Lina smiled and typed a few words. [Me too.]

Then, both of them sent each other an emoji.

Melissa couldn't help but notice Lina's radiant appearance. As she calmly ate her breakfast, memories flashed through her mind.

She recalled how Lina had successfully removed her birthmark just a few days ago. And if she remembered correctly, Lina had also added a mole below her eye last year. It seemed Lina and Gia had gone together, as the latter claimed such things were trendy.

Melissa often lectured Lina about being proper and not overdoing her makeup. But despite that, the mole under her eye seemed to suit Lina perfectly. It added an extra touch of loveliness and charm to her already beautiful face.

Melissa let out a soft sigh, feeling somewhat comforted. Her daughter had lost her birthmark and gained a mole, drifting further away from the little girl she had brought ashore years ago. Her daughter would definitely stay by her side this way. Even if she got married and left her in the future, they would only be a bowl of soup apart.

Whenever Melissa thought about these things, her nose would tingle. The thought of the day Lina would find her biological family and leave her was as painful as a knife cutting through her heart.