Ch. 1301..1310
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1301
Provoked
Zachary stared at Charlotte’s back, his gaze turning grim. He initially assumed that his actions would provoke her. If she became jealous and kicked up a fuss, it would prove that she still cared about him.
Yet, she was simply too calm.
She showed no reaction when she saw him protect Nancy.
Even though he was hugging Nancy, she still came over and greeted them so graciously.
He had provoked her on purpose, yet she responded with such ease, as if she was completely unbothered.
Zachary wanted to provoke her, but he ended up being infuriated.
Although he wished to tear Charlotte apart out of fury, he held himself back.
I mustn’t act like I’m angry, as if I really wished for her to be jealous. What’s the big deal, anyway?
He had never cheated on her. No matter what, he still clung to his true feelings and waited for her. It was her who betrayed their love and got together with Louis.
Although he was no longer hung up over the past, she still insisted on treating him so coldly.
This meant that she did not care about him at all.
Perhaps, she had stopped loving him a long time ago…
On the other hand, while Charlotte walked away, she kept reminding herself quietly, Don’t be mad. Don’t turn around. Don’t stop walking. Since he wants to anger me, I need to be calm and gracious…
“That *sshole!” cursed Lupine in fury.
It was Morgan’s catchphrase. In the past, Lupine kept scolding her for not being civilized enough.
Yet, she was saying it now.
“Who are you talking about?” Charlotte rolled her eyes.
“B-Ben of course.”
Naturally, she did not dare to scold Zachary. No matter what, he was still the father of Charlotte’s kids.
Hence, she could only vent her anger on Ben.
“What did Ben do wrong? Why are you scolding him like that?” Charlotte laughed. “He was so terrified when you yelled at him just now.”
“Ms. Lindberg…” Looking at Charlotte, who was forcing a smile, Lupine could not help but feel worried. “What’s happening to you? You’ve just been bullied! Are you completely unbothered?”
“Bullied? Who bullied me?” asked Charlotte.
“It’s obvious that Nancy did it on purpose,” exclaimed Lupine indignantly. “She asked you out deliberately before bringing Mr. Nacht here to show off how intimate they were. She’s provoking you and flaunting her dominance!”
“Firstly, she might not have done it on purpose. Even if she did, she still needs Zachary’s cooperation,” replied Charlotte calmly. “He’s not dumb enough to be exploited by someone else. Perhaps, the opposite is true—he brought Nancy here deliberately to act all lovey-dovey and provoke me.”
“Huh?” Lupine was stunned. “That sounds logical too. If Mr. Nacht is provoking you on purpose, it means that he cares about you and hopes to receive a response from you!”
“Response? What response?” Charlotte scoffed mockingly, “Should I lose my temper and kick up a fuss like an uncivilized woman?”
“Well…” Lupine was rendered speechless.
“It doesn’t matter who’s using who to provoke me.” Charlotte sighed. “Now that our survival is a problem, I’m in no mood to think about such relationship dilemmas. It’s pointless.”
“You’re right.” Her heart aching for Charlotte, Lupine gazed at her. “Mr. Lindberg’s gone now. The Lindberg Corporation’s situation is so unstable, with the only project we’ve invested in being oppressed. At this juncture, it’s true that…”
“That’s enough. Let’s go back,” said Charlotte nonchalantly.
Not daring to say anything, Lupine took the car keys from the valet and drove away with Charlotte.
“After we visit Dr. Felch tomorrow, return the car to the Nacht family,” reminded Charlotte. “We need to cut off all ties with them after sending Dr. Felch off.”
“Understood!”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1302
Before Dying
“Are you okay, Mr. Nacht?”
Nancy shot a concerned look at Zachary. A smart woman like her immediately read his mind. No wonder he brought me to Sultry Night. Turns out that he only wanted to provoke Charlotte.
“Of course I’m okay!” Zachary feigned indifference. “Let’s go. I’ll treat you to a drink.”
When he strode into his private room and saw the familiar surroundings, he could not help but think about Charlotte and their past events…
Memories surged through his mind while a turmoil of emotions ravaged him.
“I think that you need to be alone tonight,” said Nancy considerately. “Why don’t I leave first?”
“Send Ms. Gold back,” ordered Zachary solemnly.
“Understood.” Ben arranged for two of his subordinates to send Nancy home.
Gazing at Zachary reluctantly, Nancy reminded Ben, “Take good care of Mr. Nacht.”
“Don’t worry, I will.” He nodded with a smile.
Nancy left with the subordinate. When she walked out, she kept turning around to look at Zachary. It was only after the subordinate closed the door that she averted her gaze.
Ben heaved a sigh. Ms. Gold isn’t that simple.
Sitting on the sofa, Zachary cast his gaze downward and fidgeted with the lighter on the table. He kept flicking the switch, causing the flame to flicker. The flame, which was dancing in the darkness, seemed to represent his complicated emotions…
Ben dismissed the manager and opened a bottle of wine.
“Did her personality change after she changed her surname to Lindberg?” Zachary suddenly asked. “Is it possible that the current Charlotte is different from the previous Charlotte? Perhaps, they just look really similar…”
Ben felt upset when he heard that. Naturally, he understood how Zachary felt. It was true that Charlotte’s current personality was completely different from her past self.
Back then, although Charlotte had her weird tendencies and had given in before, she still loved Zachary deeply.
For Zachary’s sake, she resisted the family’s pressure and mustered up the courage to lead a new lifestyle. For him, she married into the Nacht family…
When they were in love, they were inseparable. It was as if they only cared about each other and no one else in the world mattered.
Yet, nothing that Zachary did now could affect her.
She was always so cold and distant. Even though they were just right in front of each other, it felt like their souls were miles apart.
He had exhausted all sorts of methods to become closer with her, but everything ended in failure.
“Perhaps, she has never loved me…” Zachary’s voice was filled with disappointment. “Otherwise, how could she change so drastically?”
“Actually, if we think about it, it’s understandable,” consoled Ben softly. “Two years ago, the Nacht family has harmed her too much. She even lost Mrs. Berry because of it.”
“It’s true that the Nacht family has let her down, but I’ve tried my best to make it up to her.” Zachary felt extremely helpless when Ben mentioned it. “Furthermore, I’ve never cheated on her. For the entire of my life, she’s the only woman I loved. Yet, she…”
Zachary’s heart ached terribly when he mentioned that.
“About that, I have always believed that Ms. Lindberg had been tricked by the Laurent family. She didn’t do it willingly,” said Ben carefully.
“I’ve given her a chance before. When I asked her if she was forced to do this, she didn’t answer me.” Resentment surged through Zachary when he remembered that incident. “I’ve already let the bygones be bygones. I’ve even stopped investigating it, yet she’s still pushing me away…”
“Take it slow. Give her some time…” advised Ben.
“I’m already running out of time!” Zachary’s voice suddenly became solemn. “How long more do I have to live? I just want my family to be reunited… before I die!”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1303
You Must Be Happy
But a simple wish like that can’t even be fulfilled…
Zachary, who used to be so powerful and charismatic, had become so pathetic because of love.
Ben’s heart ached when he looked at Zachary. He could not help but suggest, “Why don’t we tell her the truth?”
Shut up!” Zachary squeezed his throat abruptly and warned, “If you dare let her find out, I’ll kill you and Lupine!”
“Ahem…” Although Ben was almost strangled to death, he did not dare to resist.
Luckily, Zachary released him quickly. Collapsing on the sofa, Ben clutched his neck and kept coughing. After he regained his composure, he apologized frantically, “I’m sorry, Mr. Nacht. I was only making a suggestion. I won’t tell her. I swear on my life!”
“You’re not allowed to bring this up in the future.” Zachary was furious. “I want her to return to my side willingly, not out of pity for me.”
“I understand.” Ben nodded fearfully.
Zachary did not say anything else. He raised his wine glass and drank silently.
Standing beside him, Ben reminded carefully, “You should stop drinking after finishing this glass. You still have to see Dr. Felch tomorrow morning.”
When Dr. Felch reviewed the information that Bruce had given to him, he had asked Zachary to meet him the next morning.
“Shut up!” Zachary was bristling with frustration.
Not daring to say anything else, Ben stood at the side with his head lowered.
At that moment, someone knocked on the door. When Ben opened the door, the manager walked in with a pot of tea. He said carefully, “Ms. Gold prepared this and asked me to send it over.”
“Hasn’t she left already?” asked Ben, feeling puzzled.
“She waited for her subordinates to send the tea leaves over. After preparing the tea and instructing me to send it to Mr. Nacht, she left.” The manager shot a timid look at him. “She said that since Mr. Nacht’s complexion doesn’t seem too good, he shouldn’t drink too much alcohol. She even said that Mr. Nacht will definitely like this tea.”
“I’ve been keeping an eye on her before coming here with the manager,” said the bodyguard who was tasked to bring Nancy out. “Her bodyguards had arrived to pick her up. Kyle sent her out, while I returned with the manager.”
“Alright, you may leave now.” Ben took the teapot and checked it. Then, he brought it to Zachary and said, “You’ve heard everything.”
“That’s very kind of her.” Looking at the teapot, Zachary remembered Nancy’s gentle and affectionate gaze. He could not help but lament, “If only Charlotte can be that nice to me…”
“That’s really thoughtful of Ms. Gold.” Ben poured a cup of tea. “It’s green tea, which is good for your stomach. Why don’t you have a try?”
Zachary took the cup and sniffed the tea. It was obvious that the tea leaves were of high quality. As he had been taking his medication for a long time, his stomach condition worsened. Each time he drank, he would be in much pain afterward.
As he had never told anyone about it, he did not expect Nancy to actually notice such minor details.
“I didn’t say anything!”
Ben was starting to feel fearful now, worried that Zachary would overthink.
“Actually, if one is attentive enough, one will find out.” Zachary lifted the cup and took a sip. He praised, “The tea tastes good. It has been prepared very well.”
“There’s still someone who cares about you,” said Ben gently. “Each time after you drink, your stomach would hurt so much that you can’t sleep at night. Doesn’t it feel much better after drinking some tea?”
Zachary did not say anything. Instead, he stared at the cup and fell into deep thought.
At that moment, he received a message on his phone. When he glanced at it, he saw that Nancy had just sent him a video.
In the video, beautiful fireworks were exploding in the night sky at Baykeep’s beach.
The smoke rose to the sky and formed the words, You must be happy!
There was even a cute smiling emoji at the end, which reminded one of Nancy’s gentle smile.
The nice spot which Nancy referred to was actually a surprise for him on the beach. When she noticed the sorrowful look in his eyes, she did not probe about it. Instead, she wanted to create a romantic surprise to make him smile…
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1304
Thank You
Zachary was grateful for what she had done for him.
I guess women can come up with romantic ways to surprise men too.
Other women would employ all sorts of tricks to get Zachary’s attention, but only Nancy seemed to know what he truly desired!
Zachary was drawn by how graceful Nancy was in the video when she danced barefoot on the beach.
Her smile and the deep gaze in her eyes made her look as meek as an angel.
For once in his life, Zachary watched a video to the end. After turning off the video, he texted her: Thank you.
Regardless of her motive, Zachary was grateful for what she had done for him.
If only Charlotte was the one who did this for me…
After a four-hour drive, Lupine finally arrived at the villa in Yaleview.
It was two in the morning, and everyone was already asleep—except Morgan and Marino.
While waiting for Charlotte and Lupine, this couple took the opportunity to date secretly in the courtyard.
Upon hearing the car engine from a distance, they went up to have a look. Morgan then went up and opened the car door for Charlotte. “Welcome back, Ms. Lindberg.”
Charlotte responded with a low grunt. She then studied Marino from the corner of her eyes. “You’re still here?”
“I… I’ve been assigned to take care of the children.” Marino blushed. “Ben said he would send them home tomorrow, and we’ll also be paying Dr. Felch a visit.”
“All right then.” Charlotte then walked into the villa.
Morgan inched closer and asked Lupine. “What’s wrong? Ms. Lindberg seems unhappy.”
“It’s nothing. Go and get a good night’s rest,” Lupine responded and kept up with Charlotte.
Morgan pursed her lips and told Marino to take a rest in the car. She then followed the rest and entered the villa.
In gentle steps, Charlotte walked to the room. After a shower, she lay on her bed and told herself to sleep early so that she would have enough energy to spend the next day with the children.
Yet, the image of Zachary and Nancy being intimate with each other kept popping up in her mind.
After taking half a sleeping pill, she eventually drifted off to sleep.
Despite being deep in slumber, she had a dream. She dreamed that Zachary and Nancy got married, and the children called Nancy their mommy. She, who had become an outsider, could only helplessly watch them from afar.
It was a peaceful dream, and nothing about it was terrifying. Yet, when Charlotte woke up from her sleep, she realized her face was wet with tears that streamed down her face.
The scene from the dream haunted her once again. She stared at the ceiling blankly and felt utterly conflicted.
Danrique was right. I’m not steady and constantly indecisive. I’m not that the kind of person who’s born with a will of iron.
I worry too much because I find it hard to let things go. Yet, I can’t control my feelings. I don’t have the courage to pursue my own happiness…
That was how conflicted she was.
She knew all her weaknesses and hated them, but at the same time, she could not change her personality.
Just when she was still deep in thoughts, Danrique’s children knocked on her door in excitement. “Wake up, Aunt Charlotte! Wake up!”
The three children were all hyped up like energetic sparrows, and they were the reason the villa was lively all the time.
“Don’t disturb my Mommy, okay? Let’s go downstairs and have breakfast. Come,” Ellie said in a stern but affectionate voice.
“What time did Mommy come home last night, Lupine? Why didn’t you tell us?” Jamie asked while yawning.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1305
Chapter 1305 The Last Hope
“We didn’t want to disturb you since you were all asleep when we got home,” Lupine explained with a grin. “Let’s go downstairs. Let your Mommy get some rest.”
“Okay!” All five children formed a line and marched downstairs with Lupine.
After a sneeze, Robbie, too, went downstairs with the other children while holding a book he planned to read in the car later.
“The breakfast’s ready!” Morgan came out of the kitchen with an apron on as she was in charge of the breakfast today.
She greeted the children with a smile. “I made you your favorite breakfast today!”
“You know how to make breakfast?” Ellie tilted her head aside and asked, “I’m pretty sure Mr. Marino helped you with it.”
“Quite some time ago, Marino secretly asked Mrs. Rawlston to teach him cooking. He must have learned a skill or two and taught Ms. Morgan how to cook,” Jamie revealed.
“Stop it, you two.” Morgan blushed.
The children burst into laughter.
“It doesn’t matter whether you or your boyfriend made this. We’ll take it as you’re the one who prepared the breakfast for us,” Alpha said cheekily. “When can we eat? I’m hungry!”
“I’ll bring them over. Just give me a minute!” Morgan then signaled Jade and Emma to help carry all the dishes to the dining table.
Meanwhile, Charlotte had woken up from her sleep and was freshening up. She wanted to bring the children over to Dr. Felch’s as soon as possible.
In the meantime, Zachary and Ben had arrived at Dr. Felch’s residence.
Hayley served the breakfast she made on the wooden table in the courtyard and decorated the site with vases filled with the tiny yellow flowers she picked this morning.
As the car approached, Hayley put aside her work and was ready to welcome Charlotte to the villa. But the moment she saw Zachary, her smile vanished right away. Nonetheless, she still greeted him with respect, “Good morning, Mr. Nacht.”
“Hi.” Zachary came over on Dr. Felch’s instruction.
In fact, Zachary spent the entire night yesterday at Sultry Night, and he only went home and took a shower before coming. He looked a little worn out as he stayed up the whole night.
“Come on in.” Hayley welcomed Zachary and Ben.
Bruce and his men were stationed here for a night, but they parked their car far away to avoid disturbing Dr. Felch.
“Dr. Felch will join us for breakfast once he’s ready,” Hayley said while setting up the table.
All of a sudden, a loud thud emerged from the villa.
Zachary and Ben dashed into the house without any hesitation.
“Oh, no!” Hayley, too, followed them from behind.
When Sam was helping Dr. Felch to get out of his bed, the latter fell and hit the basin as his legs turned weak.
Sam tried to carry Dr. Felch but to no avail.
A pair of muscular arms appeared and put Dr. Felch back in his wheelchair.
Sam tilted his head and noticed it was Zachary. “Mr. Nacht…”
“Are you all right?” Zachary squatted in front of Dr. Felch and asked.
“I’m fine…” Dr. Felch replied in a deep frail voice. It took him a few seconds to open his eyes to take a look at Zachary.
His dry lips quivered as if he had something to say, but at that point, he could hardly utter a word.
“Yes, Dr. Felch?” Tears welled up in Hayley’s eyes as she tried to understand what he was trying to express. “All right. I’ll give Charlotte a call right now.”
She then turned to Sam and said, “Call Charlotte and get her to come as soon as possible. Dr. Felch can’t hold it any longer.”
“Okay. Got it.” Sam immediately looked for his phone.
“I’ll do it.” Zachary then instructed Ben to make the call instead.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1306
See Him For The Last Time
Ben walked to a corner and gave Charlotte a call. He could not help but feel anxious. Dr. Felch is now hanging by a thread. Does this mean we’d be losing our last hope soon?
Charlotte did not pick up the phone, as she was playing with the children in the courtyard.
Ben then immediately contacted Marino. After getting to know that Dr. Felch was about to give up the ghost, Marino immediately ran to Charlotte and passed her the phone.
Charlotte, who was playing with a bubble gun with the children, planned to depart after this, but after answering talking to Ben over the phone, she dropped the bubble gun and instructed her bodyguards, “Quick. Get the car ready.”
“Right away!”
Morgan and Lupine did not even have the time to help the children change into fresh clothes. After stuffing all the six children and their clothes into their respective seats, they hit the road immediately.
Throughout the journey, Charlotte kept blaming herself. “It’s my fault. I should have left early. I should have brought the kids over to visit him yesterday…”
“What happened to Dr. Felch? He was still pretty energetic yesterday, wasn’t he?” Lupine felt sorry for Charlotte upon seeing how worried she was.
“What’s wrong with Dr. Felch?” Even the children felt something was amiss.
“Dr. Felch is very ill, and he wants to see you,” Charlotte regained her composure and explained. “I need all of you to stay quiet when you meet him later, okay?”
“Okay…” The children nodded despite not knowing what was going on.
“Good.” Charlotte, who grew increasingly despondent, embraced the children.
“Lupine, who called Mr. Marino just now?” Robbie asked all of a sudden.
At that time, Marino was driving the extended Rolls-Royce.
Lupine, who sat next to Charlotte, answered, “Ben called.”
“Does that mean Daddy and Mr. Ben are both at Dr. Felch’s?” A line formed between Robbie’s brows, and his eyes sparkled.
“I guess so.” Lupine did not think much before answering Robbie. “They must have visited Dr. Felch because they knew you’re going to be there.”
“Did you visit Dr. Felch with Daddy last night?” Robbie asked.
“Yes. We went together.” Lupine nodded.
“And you left together?” Robbie asked again.
“Your Daddy left first.” Lupine could feel Robbie had some doubts on his mind. “What’s wrong with you, Robbie?”
“Nothing.” Robbie shook his head and looked dispirited. “I just asked for fun.”
“Oh.” Lupine did not pursue the matter any further.
Charlotte did not hear what Robbie and Lupine said as she was busy reminding the other children not to disturb Dr. Felch when they arrived.
Their car continued to speed on the highway.
Meanwhile, Ben had called Raina and a few other specialists over. He wanted them to conduct a thorough check-up for Dr. Felch.
Dr. Felch waved his hand in the air in a sickly manner. Upon interpreting his intention, Sam choked on his words and said, “Dr. Felch said that won’t be necessary, but thank you.”
Raina, who felt a little uneasy, then looked at Zachary.
Zachary instructed, “Wait outside.”
“All right.” Raina had no choice but to retreat from the room with the medical team and wait in the courtyard alongside Bruce.
Dr. Felch, who could hardly move from the bed, kept staring at the door, hoping he could meet Charlotte and the children for one last time.
“Shall we go out for a walk to get some morning sun?” Zachary whispered his suggestion to his ear. “They should arrive soon.”
Dr. Felch responded with a weak nod.
When Hayley and Sam were about to help Dr. Felch get up from the bed, Zachary went up and carried him instead. “Bring his wheelchair over.”
“Okay.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1307
Perhaps There Is Hope
The winter sun always brought about a unique warmth.
Sam placed a pillow on the wheelchair while Zachary helped Dr. Felch into it. He then placed a blanket over Dr. Felch and ordered Sam to light the fire.
A dying person would definitely be afraid of the cold, so Dr. Felch desperately needed to warm himself up now.
After making sure Dr. Felch was comfortable underneath the blanket, Zachary told Hayley to feed Dr. Felch some hot soup.
Basking underneath the sun, Dr. Felch warmed himself up before the crackling fire and drank some soup before regaining his senses. He squinted at Zachary and summoned his energy to say, “Thank you!”
“No problem. You saved my wife and kids,” Zachary answered, reaching out to wipe the stain on his lips.
Back then, he didn’t even get a chance to take care of his own grandfather.
Now that the chance had arrived, he wished to repay Dr. Felch’s favor.
“I’m sorry…” Dr. Felch mumbled apologetically.
He stared at Zachary, guilt evident in his gaze. Though he couldn’t speak coherently, Zachary’s illness remained a niggling concern in his heart.
For his entire life, he saved countless lives and did many good deeds.
Before he got sick, he even treated Charlotte and Ellie, repaying Richard’s favor from years ago.
If anything, he should be able to rest in peace.
However, whenever he saw Zachary, guilt would rise in his heart. I wasn’t as strong as before and ignored his condition. Though I want to treat him, my stamina is lacking.
Dr. Felch initially wanted to write the treatment plan so Sam and Hayley could treat Zachary even after he was dead, but he had no idea he’d breathe his last breath before the plan was completed.
“The number of one’s days is fixed,” said Zachary as he took Dr. Felch’s hand. “Don’t worry about me.”
Dr. Felch pointed at his own chest with a shaking finger, and Sam immediately realized what he meant. The latter pulled out a piece of paper from his shirt.
The crumpled piece of paper was full of unintelligible words and strange drawings. There was no full stop, and only half of the drawings were completed, so it was clear that Dr. Felch didn’t manage to finish what he was writing.
Dr. Felch pointed at Zachary.
Sam gave the paper to Zachary and said solemnly, “Last night, Dr. Felch woke up briefly and told me a man might understand the plan he wrote on the paper. You might have a chance to get better.”
“Who could that man be?” Ben inched nearer anxiously.
“His name is Francesco,” revealed Sam carefully. “He was Dr. Felch’s first apprentice and had remained with him for twenty years. As he was extremely talented, he inherited all of Dr. Felch’s medical skills.”
Sam hung his head low, feeling somewhat ashamed. Though he had been Dr. Felch’s apprentice for years, he didn’t manage to learn a lot from his teacher.
Dr. Felch told him to leave a few times, saying he wasn’t suitable to be a doctor, but he refused to do so.
He was an orphan and had nowhere else to go. Dr. Felch had adopted him from the orphanage, so he planned to stay and serve Dr. Felch until the latter died of old age.
“I didn’t know Francesco was Dr. Felch’s apprentice,” Zachary mused in surprise.
The legendary Francesco did not have a fixed address and was travelling constantly. Besides being a skilled doctor, he was also skilled in defensive skills.
At the mention of his apprentice, Dr. Felch let out a long sigh.
“Keep it.” Sam offered the paper to Zachary.
After accepting it, Zachary folded it carefully before placing it in his pocket. He turned to Dr. Felch and said, “Thank you!”
Dr. Felch squinted his eyes and stared into the distance, waiting for Charlotte to arrive.
Zachary had just told Ben to call her when a car rolled to a stop outside. Ben dashed out at once.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1308
Funeral
Charlotte scrambled out of the car and raced into the house without her kids.
Seeing how weak Dr. Felch was, tears spilled down her cheeks. She ran over to him, knelt on the ground, and took his hand. “Dr. Felch, I’m here. Charlotte’s here.”
As his lips curved up slightly, Dr. Felch’s frail hand clasped her hand. He parted his lips to say something, but nothing came out of his mouth.
“Dr. Felch!”
The kids dashed in after getting off the car. They burst into tears at the sight of his fragile figure.
They had promised Charlotte to not disturb Dr. Felch, so they merely pouted and sobbed quietly.
“Kids…” Dr. Felch stretched his arm out toward them.
Morgan led the kids over, and they surrounded Dr. Felch and greeted him softly, “Dr. Felch.”
“Dr. Felch, you must get well soon so you can buy more sweets for me.”
“Dr. Felch, you promised to teach me acupuncture! You must keep your word!”
“Dr. Felch, remember how you promised to bring me to Mount Phoenix so we can catch wild hogs?”
“Dr. Felch, you wanted to see my latest invention, right? Here it is…”
“Dr. Felch, you lied to us! You said you’ll bring us to Daddy. You’re a liar!”
The kids sobbed sadly as they tamped down their feelings so Dr. Felch wouldn’t find them rowdy.
Charlotte wasn’t planning to cry, but she couldn’t hold her tears in.
Dr. Felch held their little hands and squinted at their adorable little faces. Gradually, his eyes fluttered shut.
“Dr. Felch? Dr. Felch!”
“Dr. Felch!”
“Dr. Felch…”
The men in black outside bowed their heads low as they mourned in silence. Loud sobs rang out inside the courtyard.
Zachary stood in a corner and looked at them silently, filled with conflicting emotions.
Fate decreed that Dr. Felch would die when he was ninety-nine years old, so he had no choice but to accept his fate.
There’s no way they’ll find Francesco in a short time. He’s Danrique Lindberg’s best friend and my enemy, so he won’t agree to help.
The last shred of hope was practically non-existent.
As Dr. Felch breathed his last breath, Ben exhaled sharply.
Actually, he had the same thought as Zachary. They both hoped that Dr. Felch would at least complete his treatment plan before his death, but alas, their wish hadn’t come true.
Dejected, he thought of how there was no news of Francesco, though they had been searching for around six months. Even if we manage to find him, it should be difficult to persuade that weirdo to treat Mr. Nacht. Although it seems like a slim chance, we will never give up!
The breakfast on the table had cooled down. A wildflower was dancing in the wind as a light floral scent wafted in the air.
The sun shone on Dr. Felch’s kind face, encircling his awfully quiet figure.
In a daze, Charlotte thought she saw his soul enveloped in a golden aura as he rose to the sky slowly under the sunlight.
Nice people are supposed to go to heaven. Perhaps he’ll meet Father in the afterworld? They can drink and talk together like old times.
That afternoon, Charlotte dealt with Dr. Felch’s funeral. According to his wishes, his body was transported back to Mount Phoenix and cremated there.
Zachary kept her company throughout the whole journey before bidding Dr. Felch goodbye forever.
The children also tagged along to Mount Phoenix so they could pay their last respects to Dr. Felch.
Three days later, the dust had settled.
Charlotte wanted to leave with Sam and Hayley, but they insisted on mourning Dr. Felch on the mountain for three months. They promised to contact her after that.
Instead of forcing them to leave with her, Charlotte made the arrangements so they could spend three months comfortably there. She then left with the kids in tow, boarding a flight back to Yaleview.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1309
In the private jet, the kids promptly fell asleep.
They were exhausted after not getting enough sleep for the past three days. Closing their swollen eyes, they fell into a deep sleep.
Charlotte leaned into her seat and stared at the sky blankly.
Zachary came over to her with a cup of hot tea and offered it to her.
“Thank you!” Charlotte took it from him and felt the warmth spreading from her palms to her entire being.
“You should move back to Northridge,” Zachary said suddenly. “It’s easier for the kids to travel. Yaleview is too far away.”
“I—”
“I know what you’re thinking,” Zachary cut in. “You want to stay away from me. I promise I won’t harass you. In fact, I won’t come to you. Will that work?”
Hearing his words, there was only one thing that Charlotte could think of—he had decided to date Nancy.
She didn’t blurt that out loud and instead reminded herself repeatedly that it was over between them. The man could date anyone he wanted, and she had no right to question his decision.
“Think about it.” Zachary rose to his feet and returned to his seat.
Charlotte lowered her head, saying nothing. Robbie walked up to her and whispered, “Mommy, I need to talk to you.”
“Sure. What is it, Robbie?” Charlotte patted the seat next to her.
After climbing into the seat, Robbie went straight to the point. “I hope you can move back to Northridge so Jamie, Ellie, and I can see you every day. We can also get to play with Alpha, Gamma, and Beta. Yaleview is too far away for us to visit frequently. Besides, Jamie and Ellie had missed a lot of classes, and they are going back to school next week. They will be busy with school on weekdays and various extracurricular classes on weekends. It might be hard for them to pay you a visit. Don’t you miss us?”
“Of course I miss you,” Charlotte replied, patting his head softly as guilt overwhelmed her heart. “I’m sorry that you have to travel frequently because of me recently.”
“So will you move back to Northridge?” Robbie inquired earnestly.
“Mommy, Mommy…” Jamie and Ellie ran over to them. Taking Charlotte’s hand, they pleaded, “Please move back. I want to see you and the little ones every day!”
“Yes! Please…”
Charlotte finally budged under the kids’ constant entreats. “All right. I’ll move back.”
“Yay, that’s great!” the kids cheered.
“Shh,” Charlotte gestured for them to keep quiet. “The little ones are asleep. Keep down the noise.”
“Okay!” Jamie and Ellie nodded profusely. They covered their lips and said nothing after that.
“Go take a nap.” Charlotte ruffled their hair affectionately. “Mommy will pack up and move back to Northridge.”
“Okay.” The kids shuffled away, pleased with themselves.
Charlotte noticing Jamie exchanging a look with Zachary. She immediately glared at the latter. “Come here!”
Zachary came over to her as requested. “What is it?”
“Did you teach them to say that?” Charlotte demanded as a frown marred her brows.
“I did nothing of the sort!” Zachary answered, flashing an innocent smile. “They miss you too much and kept bothering me, so I told them to persuade you, as you’d be more inclined to listen to them.”
“Did you mean what you said earlier?” she questioned.
“About what?” Zachary responded. Realization dawned on him as he nodded. “Oh, you mean that. Don’t worry. If you don’t come to me, I won’t show myself to you.”
“Make sure you don’t go back on your word,” Charlotte reminded.
“Are you the only woman on earth?” Zachary scoffed. “Why would I harass you if you’ve rejected me? I’m not that shameless.”
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1310
Hearing the determination in Zachary’s words, Charlotte relaxed. Looks like I don’t have to worry. He has decided to stay away from me and is doing this for the kids.
Though that was what she wanted, strangely, she felt a tinge of disappointment. However, her expression remained cool as she replied calmly, “Good. We’re divorced, and now we’re neighbors. Nothing more. We shall stay out of each other’s lives from now on.”
“Is this a peace agreement?” Zachary stretched his arm out. “No problem!”
Rolling her eyes, Charlotte took his hand.
From today onward, Northridge and Southridge’s previous glory would be restored.
Behind them, Ben and Lupine shared smiling looks.
Marino and Morgan were secretly overjoyed, for it was much easier for them to meet up now.
Back in H City, Charlotte told Lupine and Morgan to prepare for the house moving while she went to Yaleview to visit Jeffrey.
The factory that Charlotte invested in was doing well under the reins of Jeffrey and the other men.
After working hard for two years, they finally expanded and opened three more factories. Now, they were planning to rent an office building in the city for their company. Slowly, they’d establish the brand and increase their influence in the industry.
Jeffrey was delighted to learn about Charlotte’s return. He gathered two shareholders to meet her with the accounts so they could report about the profit and results for the past two years.
Though Charlotte was the biggest shareholder and invested a huge sum of money, she didn’t bother asking how the company was doing. A satisfied grin lit her lips when she found out her initial investment had at least tripled.
Thus, she thanked Jeffrey and the other two profusely.
After exchanging pleasantries, Charlotte suggested, “I’ve looked around, and the factories seem to be doing well. You can continue with the expansion. I’ll invest another one billion, so just go all out. You shall handle the products, and I’ll help to promote the brand in secret. Don’t let others know that I’m a major shareholder, though.”
The few shareholders were dumbstruck. Though they were successful businessmen, the sum of their investment was only around twenty million.
Now that business was booming, they had considered seeking other investors to expand the business. Alas, they dared not bother Charlotte. To their utter surprise, she offered to add on two billion to her initial investment.
Her statement shocked them senseless.
“Charlotte, w-where did you get so much money?” Jeffrey pulled her aside and whispered, “I heard that Lindberg Corporation is now in trouble. You’ve received your share, so even if you can afford it, keep the money. Investments are risky, and we’re not that capable. Running a small company is fine, but we don’t have the confidence to expand further.”
“He’s right.” The other shareholders nodded. “Your investment sum is too large.”
“We’ve worked under your dad. Handling the products is fine by us, but branding and being entrepreneurs don’t suit us.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll take charge of that,” Charlotte assured them confidently. “Just do as I say. Mr. Judd, send me the company account number. I’ll transfer the money over shortly.”
Jeffrey parted his lips to convince her to change her mind, but she was insistent. “Please don’t worry. I’ll bear all the risks. If the company is a success, we’ll divide all the profits. All losses will be bored by me.”
“H-How can we let you do that?” the shareholders stuttered anxiously.
“Since Charlotte’s confident in the expansion, it’s a yes from us.” Jeffrey made up his mind. “We should stick together through thick and thin!”