Ch. 1741..1750
Chapter 1741: Reunited
Francesca was over the moon after receiving Charlotte's payment. She even greeted Hayley and Sam with a smile when they arrived that afternoon.
Hayley and Sam were overjoyed when they met the legendary Francesco. Their eyes shone with admiration when they met her.
Francesca was very friendly with them. After all, they were all Dr. Felch’s apprentices even though they had never met before. She treated them as if they were her siblings.
Francesca taught them everything and even asked Bruce to act as a patient. She explained every single detail of the acupuncture treatment to them.
Hayley jolted everything down in her notebook while Sam did a hands-on practice.
After that, Francesca taught them how to prepare Zachary's medication. She taught them everything in great detail but only said it once since it was all very simple to her.
She would rebuke Sam whenever he asked further questions. “Dr. Felch would never go into so much detail when he taught me. I learned everything just by watching him..."
After hearing that, Sam immediately shut his mouth and dared not ask any more questions. Francesca's attitude softened when she saw Sam quivering and Hayley lowering her head meekly. “I'll repeat. Listen carefully and remember everything I say!”
“Yes, Francesca!”
Just like that, it took Francesca one day to teach Hayley and Sam everything. She retired to her room to pack her bags that night and left for Erihal in a private jet the next morning.
Charlotte sent her off at the airport and gave her three presents for her three kids.
Francesca opened the box and saw three jade pendants. Her eye lit up. “This must worth a lot too.” “I don't know how much it is worth, but it's the thought that counts. Robbie, Jamie, and Ellie also have one each. I've also prepared gifts for Alpha, Beta, and Gamma. I hope to see all six of them grow up to be healthy and happy.”
Charlotte was extremely sincere.
“Thank you, Charlotte...” Francesca wrapped her arms around Charlotte. “I finally know why that bast*rd husband of mine treats you so well.”
Francesca wasn't very good at conveying her thoughts, but she considered Charlotte a warm and thoughtful girl. She was popular among her friends because she treated everyone with sincerity. “Francesca, you're going to spend more than ten hours on the private jet to fly from H City to Erihal. You can use this time to figure out what you want to do with your life from here on...”
Charlotte patted the back of her hand and reminded her gently.
“Yeah...” Francesca had been giving it some thought as well. She had always wanted freedom. However, she felt as if something was missing now that Danrique no longer cared for her nor pursue her.
She felt as if freedom meant nothing to her without her kids by her side.
However, she wouldn't be able to take it if she had to return to her old life of being imprisoned in Danrique’s castle.
She felt conflicted.
Nonetheless, she learned some valuable lessons after spending some time with Charlotte and Zachary. Communication and tolerance were key in maintaining a healthy relationship.
I should compromise and be more considerate towards Danrique. This might be the only way for us to live together.
“A lot of love is not being reciprocated in this world. You are blessed to meet someone you love and loves you in return. However, it can be hard to get along with one another from time to time. After all, no one is born for you alone. You need to get in tune with one another, build tolerance with one another, and show some empathy. That's the only way to make this relationship last. It might be a long and grueling journey, but it will be worth it in the end.”
Charlotte advised earnestly.
Francesca didn't have a very good grasp of her advice. Nonetheless, she decided she would talk to Danrique once she gets back home.
Chapter 1742: Silly Wife
Charlotte returned home after seeing Francesca off to find Zachary sipping on his coffee with an open newspaper in his hands.
Flaring up instinctively, she stomped toward him. “Why did you lie to Francesca, Zachary?”
He folded the newspaper and smiled pleasantly at her in response. “You're home, Wifey. Have some breakfast.”
Charlotte wrenched his ear. “Answer me.”
"I will after you make yourself comfortable.” Zachary coaxed her patiently despite the pain. “Have you seen her ledger?”
“I did.” Charlotte maintained her frosty glare. “Though what she did was over the line, you were the one to have agreed to it with your thumbprint. Don’t make promises you can't keep!”
“I was so ill that I did not even know what I was agreeing to,” he protested indignantly. “All I remember was my thumb being nipped for blood whenever she charged me for something. You can imagine how much I've been taken advantage of.”
“When I regained consciousness,” he added fearfully, “she threatened to have her wolves devour me if I did not agree to her exorbitant sum.”
Charlotte's anger abated momentarily. “That does sound like her. She's definitely capable of something like that.”
As if suddenly recalling that she was in the middle of chastising him, her brow hardened again. “Be that as it may, you owe her your life. If you didn't find the terms agreeable, you should have discussed them with her instead of manipulating her with the five million!”
“I did no such thing,” Zachary replied calmly. “As all of the resources of Nacht Group are currently under your name, I'm left with only ten million or so by Rodney's estimate. Her fee alone is exactly half that amount.”
“You!” Charlotte blurted, too angry to speak. “You businessmen are all the same! Cunning and deceitful!”
Zachary burst out laughing as he gave her an affectionate squeeze. “I don't really intend on defaulting, you know. I was only teasing you.”
Charlotte waved her hand resignedly. “There's no need for that anymore. I'd just given her the three hundred million I have on hand on top of a bunch of jewelry which amounts to a billion and a half, give or take. Since she considers herself well compensated for her troubles, I think we'll call the matter resolved.”
"What?" Zachary exclaimed as his eyes widened with shock. “Why didn’t you tell me before handing over that kind of money?”
Charlotte rolled her eyes. “What else could I do? You were the one to have promised something before running away when things began to look bad. As your wife, it is my duty, unpleasant as it is, to take on your debt. Besides, it is to my future sister-in-law you owe money. I'm trying to welcome her to the family, not drive her away from it!"
"Give her money instead of the jewelry I bought you!” Zachary protested. “They carry sentimental value. I would have just paid her if I knew you were going to do something like this. I was going to, anyway.”
“I can't be asking her to hand everything back, can 1? I made up for the balance with the jewelry. At least it's still within the family!”
Zachary did not say more on the matter as awful as he felt about it.
If I knew that was going to happen, I would have paid Francesca the money in the first place. Charlotte wouldn't have had to appease her by giving away all her sentimental jewelry if I did. “Never do something like this again,” said Charlotte severely. “Especially to Danrique and Francesca. I always have to be the one to clean up your mess!”
“I'll try not to,” replied Zachary meekly, succumbing to his wife's irate glare.
As big of an expense it had incurred to orchestrate, he considered it a win to have Francesca return to Danrique’s side since it also meant that Zachary had won five percent of Lindberg Corporation's shares.
If my silly wife finds out about it, is she going to give it all back?
Chapter 1743: Going Through The Pains
Sure enough, Charlotte received a call from Sean seven days later who informed her that Danrique intended to transfer some shares in Lindberg Corporation to her and to have her return at once to attend to the paperwork.
Charlotte was most surprised as it was not the first time he had transferred some shares to her. When the company ran into trouble, he had taken back the shares to prevent her involvement. Fueled by curiosity over Danrique’s uncharacteristic gesture, she pressed for answers to why he might do such a thing. Sean revealed that some of them were her mother's shares, which rightfully belonged to Charlotte. The rest had been the winnings of a bet placed between Zachary and Danrique.
Furious at the news, she demanded details but Sean remained reticent by merely reiterating his reminder for her to attend to the share transfer paperwork.
After assuring him that she would get around to it, Charlotte called Zachary as soon as Sean departed.
Seeing no way around her blunt questions, Zachary admitted to the wager.
Charlotte lost her temper and yelled at him.
Zachary gave a wry smile at her tirade. “You misunderstood my intentions, Wifey. I placed the bet to propel Danrique into action.”
"He's like a brother to me!” she snapped. “How could you stand to make a dime on the pretext of helping him?”
“If 1 had lost, I would still be a man of my word by honoring the terms of the wager.”
"You..."
“It's under your name now," explained Zachary patiently. “We would be in a better position to provide assistance if Lindberg Corporation runs into trouble in the future. Isn't that neat?” Charlotte's eyes widened. “I did hear that they have some unresolved issues. As a result of this wager, I would be able to show up as a shareholder and see if there's anything we can do to help.” “Lindberg Corporation is in urgent need of equity.” Zachary had already done his homework. “Do what you do best, shareholder. Bring them some money!”
“But I have none!” Charlotte argued. “I'd given it all to Francesca.”
“No, you didn't. We still have some money! I'll make all the arrangements for you. You are to depart for Erihal tomorrow. Once you get there, I'll walk you through the next step.”
"I can't wait!”
That afternoon, Ben showed Rodney into the house for Charlotte's signature on a document. She was aware that it pertained to the transfer of company funds.
Her fountain pen fell through her trembling fingers to the floor with a clatter at the sight of the number. “Is it all for me? Can Nacht Group manage without this sum?”
“I don't actually know, Madam,” Ben smiled assuringly. “Mr. Nacht was the one to have made the necessary arrangements. I'm sure he has everything under control.”
“Mr. Nacht has instructed us to accompany you on your trip back to Erihal and to assist you wherever you might need,” Rodney added. “I hope you don’t mind the pleasure of our company, Mrs. Nacht.”
“You're coming along too?”
Ben nodded. “Of course! Mr. Nacht left instructions for us to appear before your family with as much pomp as possible.”
“Nobody will dare to underestimate me with Danrique there!” Charlotte laughed. “I'm sure that it's common knowledge who my husband is.”
“I'm sure they do, Mrs. Nacht.”
After guiding Charlotte through the rest of the paperwork and making some vague plans for their trip, it was close to midnight when they finally departed.
Charlotte remained behind to straighten out her files and keep the children company before heading up to her bedroom. Before she stepped foot into the bathroom, Zachary appeared. “Mind if I hop in with you?”
"Hubby!" Charlotte squealed before turning around to embrace him with her cheek pressed on his chest. “I owe you a thank you.”
"Oh? For what?” Zachary asked as he kissed the top of her head.
“It was after calling you this afternoon and saying all those mean things when I realized how carefully thought out your plan was,” Charlotte admitted sheepishly. “You must have known that you would win the wager with Danrique before you made it, didn't you? It was all for a legitimate way to help Lindberg Corporation.”
Zachary pinched her cheek affectionately. “Nonsense! I'm all in the business of making money. Didn't you once call me a cunning businessman?”
Chapter 1744: The Entourage
Charlotte pouted. “I said no such thing. There was no way you could have moved such a large amount of money in a day. Before you made that bet, you must have already begun the process of transferring. You knew that Danrique is too proud to accept help even when he needs it, which is why you'd found a way to sneak me in as a shareholder and use Nacht Group's funds to save Lindberg Corporation. Did I get that right?” she asked as she twisted his ear.
Taking no notice of the pain, Zachary merely smiled as he helped her remove her coat.
“I'm asking you a question!” she pressed on indignantly.
“To the shower!” Zachary declared after giving her cheek a kiss
Charlotte's next question was stifled by Zachary's lips upon hers.
Hot like a flame enveloping her, they rendered breathing and squirming impossible. The only thing left for her to do was to meekly accept the domineering display of passion.
Though Zachary was unwilling to discuss it, Charlotte understood the pains he had gone through for her. Though it looked as though he did it to set Danrique and Francesca up, he had also managed to put them in a position to help Lindberg Corporation.
Best of all, it did not embarrass Danrique and it did not make me feel obligated. We basically managed to do what we always wanted to with the aid of a corporate shroud. Not only did Zachary go through all the time and trouble, not to mention considerable resources to put this together, but he also had to endure my vicious tongue!
Zachary had matured a lot from the barrage of incidents raining misfortune down upon him and his family. Instead of displaying dominance and insistence for things to be done his way, he grew to learn more subtle solutions and began to view business as an art of warfare. As an indirect result, his temper had also grown more mellow. It was a pleasant change for Charlotte and the children because adopting this temperament was a paradigm shift in the dynamics of their family as it anchored them with stability that was never there before.
With the abundance of loving support behind her, Charlotte felt as if she was filled with the confidence to be able to take on anything
After a night of frolicking, the sunlight had already shone through the window by the time Charlotte woke up to an empty room. Instinctively, she rose and walked to the windowsill. Throwing open the curtains, she watched Zachary and the children playing together in the garden.
Robbie, Jamie, and Ellie hid behind their father as he stood with his arms spread to face the mock wrath of Fifi
Spurred on by the children’s screams, Fifi spread its wings and dived excitedly.
The children remained as safe as they could be behind his broad back. Fifi could not even peck at the children no matter how hard it tried.
Not only were the children not afraid, but they were also hardly able to stand upright from laughing too hard.
The mid-morning sun shone down upon them and immortalized the memory in a warm sepia glow into Charlotte's consciousness.
Her lips parted in a sigh of contentment, the sunniness of the day reflected in her mood. She watched the children, still as a statue, until Lupine’s voice roused her out of her reverie. “Everything has been prepared, Ms. Lindberg.”
“Thank you. We'll leave in half an hour.”
That's right. I'm going back to Erihal today.
Charlotte went downstairs after getting dressed. Coincidentally, Zachary was leading the children back in to wash up for breakfast at the same time. “Mommy! Mommy!” the children squealed as they flocked around her. “Daddy told us you're returning to Erihal! Is that true?”
“Yes, my dears. I have some business to attend to. It'll only be a few days!” Charlotte squatted down to give each child a kiss and a hug. “Listen to your father while I'm gone, will you?”
“Yes, Mommy," the children chorused.
"Have some breakfast before you leave.” Zachary glanced at his watch. “You still have time.”
“I don't think I will. I'll just grab a quick bite at the airport.” Charlotte saved her last hug for him. “I'm leaving the house to you, Hubby. Try not to burn it down while I'm gone!”
“I won't, Wifey. The house and the kids are in safe hands.” Zachary pecked her on the forehead before turning to address somebody behind Charlotte. “Take good care of my wife!”
“Yes, Sir!"
She whipped around at the volume of the response and was shocked to find an entourage of around twenty people sharing her flight. Aside from two lawyers, two accountants, two high-ranking executives of Nacht Group, and a team of bodyguards, there seemed to be at least one representative from every conceivable department.
Charlotte groaned. “Is there really a need for such a spectacle?”
Chapter 1745: Richest Woman In The World
"You are the wife of Zachary Nacht,” he declared as he returned her hug. “No spectacle is too grand for you. Besides, you are the second-largest shareholder in Lindberg Corporation! An entourage this size is still not big enough for your worth.”
Charlotte snorted before doing a double-take. “Second largest?” she asked, confused. “How much exactly did Danrique give me?”
“Twenty-five percent, I heard,” Zachary sighed. “My wife is now the richest woman in the world!” “Rubbish!” Charlotte exclaimed, hardly daring to believe it.
Zachary rubbed her cheeks. “Twenty-five percent of Lindberg Corporation, fifty-five of Nacht Group, and that's not mentioning me working endlessly to bolster your coffer. Name me another woman in the world of equal wealth to you at this very moment.”
“Twenty-five?” Charlotte repeated in a daze. “Danrique gave me twenty-five percent, you say?” Zachary nodded patiently. “Yes, my dear. Twenty-five percent. The best part is that your shares are permanently yours now. Danrique had only granted you temporary ownership of the shares the first time you went home, which could be taken away at any time. This time, nobody will have a say in what you do with them.”
Charlotte was visibly nervous. “Twenty percent was left to me by my mother, I understand that. What I don't understand is how I ended up with the remainder as a result of your wager?”
“You are my wife. Who else is it going to?” Zachary rolled his eyes at her. “I'm actually looking forward to you becoming richer so that I can finally retire. When I do, I'll be looking to you to feed me!”
Charlotte failed to stifle a laugh. “No pressure, right?”
"Don’t worry,” Zachary reassured her with a peck on her forehead. “Danrique and I have your back. Get it done quickly in Erihal, will you? The wedding will be held on the ninth.”
"What?" Charlotte gasped. “I'm getting married on the ninth? How is this the first time I'm hearing about this?"
“Well, I'm telling you now, aren't I? I've got it all under control, don't you worry.”
“It's my wedding!” she protested. “Shouldn't the bride be at least informed of the date of her own wedding ahead of everybody else?”
“I didn't broadcast it to avoid any unwanted attention if that's any consolation.” Zachary stroked her hair. “Off you go, then. You are to return on the third.”
“Isn't that cutting it close? Today's already the thirtieth...”
"Do as I say!” Zachary said sharply before turning to Ben. “Keep things moving as planned, understand?”
“Yes, Mr. Nacht!”
Charlotte knew that she wouldn't be able to win the argument. Without further ado, she bid the children farewell before getting into the car obediently.
She saw from the rearview mirror as the car drove off that Zachary was waving at her. “It looks as though I am in charge but he is actually the one pulling the strings!”
Marino smiled. “Mr. Nacht only does it to protect you, Madam.”
“He does!” Morgan chimed in eagerly. “Mr. Nacht always has your best interests at heart.”
“Five days is plenty of time, Mrs. Nacht,” Ben said comfortingly. “Mr. Nacht spoke to Mr. Lindberg several times on the phone and has made all the arrangements ahead of time. All you have to do is just follow through with the procedures.”
“That's right. I'd heard Sean said that his side was good to go as well,” Lupine added
“I'm beginning to suspect that you two are only here to butter me up.” Charlotte cuffed Lupine and Morgan lightly. “What else did he instruct you to say?”
Charlotte patted the back of Lupine and Morgan's heads. “I guessed the reason he sent you two along is for your marriage proposals as well?”
Chapter 1746: Involvement
Lupine and Morgan blushed as their charade fell apart while Marino gave an uncomfortable grin. Ben was the most outspoken. “Yes, there was that idea. I must thank you and Mr. Nacht for the help you gave me.”
“Don’t worry, I will make sure Danrique is aware of this.”
Everything is coming together at last! I'm so happy for my girls.
As Charlotte boarded the private jet headed for Erihal, Zachary busied himself with the wedding preparations.
This time, to avoid unsolicited attention, he did not make the announcement. All he wanted was to get married in peace.
News of Spencer's death arrived from the hospital just as Charlotte boarded.
Zachary made frequent visits throughout the butlers stay in the hospital. He had even brought the children along during the most recent visit which was on the night before.
Spencer had smiled in contentment at the sight of the children, aware that it might be his last. Zachary was devastated. He had hoped that Spencer would have been able to hold on at least until his wedding.
After notifying Charlotte of the news, he made arrangements for a quiet funeral.
Aside from members of the Nacht family, only the inner circle of Nacht Group executives was present.
Johann lamented Spencer's untimely death during the service, feeling particularly morose as they were of a similar age with him being in his twilight years as well. The numerous upheavals within the company had severely weakened him. Under Zachary's strict orders, he had been forced to take a step back from company affairs to recuperate.
Johann had expressed a wish to spend his last years with his daughter's family after attending Zachary's wedding, a decision that had earned the respect and blessing of the groom
During the period of his recuperation, Johann managed to regain his strength from his mandatory vacation. He had even developed the habit of seeing Robbie at least once a day to engage in conversations regarding technological research and passed on everything he knew to the child. Zachary was deeply appreciative to Johann for that.
Robbie was a fast learner. Despite being only seven years of age, he kept up with the company’s progress easily. Harder problems were generally referred to him by employees who were unable to solve them on their own.
With everything progressing according to plan, it did not look as if anything could go wrong.
That morning, Lucy came over with a report as soon as Zachary arrived at his office. “Mr. Nacht, the cops have some news.”
Zachary took a closer look at the contents of the file to discover that Jesse had been formally charged. His involvement in a large number of criminal activities including the kidnapping of Ellie by Sharon to T Nation had been proven.
Zachary had been under the impression that Chris was Sharon's secret benefactor. He did not expect it to be Jesse and was shocked to learn how early the plot had been put in motion.
After a thorough investigation by the cops, other crimes committed by Jesse were beginning to come to light. As of that morning, the list of his crimes with solid evidence had filled an entire page with more under investigation.
With sufficient proof to detain him, he had been handed over to the court to await trial.
Nancy too had been charged with a multitude of crimes. Due to the high possibility of her contracting AIDS, she was subjected to medical treatment. Her trial had been postponed by three months until she recovered.
Zachary's brows creased with worry after scanning through the documents. “Send a softcopy of everything to Mrs. Nacht,” he instructed Lucy.
"Already did, Mr. Nacht,” replied Lucy briskly before handing him another folder. “This contains the information regarding all of Gold Group's partners.”
“There's no need to look at those.” Zachary did not even glance up.
“There is a page that might be of interest to you,” Lucy prompted gently. “It pertains to the Brown family.”
Zachary started in surprise before examining the folder more closely. Indeed, Michael did work together with the Golds once. Because of Gold Group's bankruptcy, the Brown family suffered great losses as well.
Zachary read the document intently and discovered that the Browns and Golds had a legitimate partnership. It appeared that their project had been picking up steam, scheduled to begin two months ago.
Michael does have connections to the Gold family! He must have been working with them as early as my first encounter with Nancy at South Sea Hotel where I was attacked.
Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort
Chapter 1747: Formal Apology
Zachary had no interest in the exact manner their partnership had begun, nor what other projects the duo had launched together.
His only goal was to clarify whether or not Michael's dealings with the Gold family pertained to him. Zachary placed the folder back onto the table and summoned Bruce to investigate.
Just as Bruce was about to depart after receiving his orders, the secretary returned with the news of a Mr. Brown requesting an audience with Zachary.
Bruce switched the focus of the monitor to the surveillance camera overlooking the reception. Sure enough, Michael was standing in wait.
Zachary ordered for Michael to be shown up at his office.
“Should I proceed with the investigation, Sir?” Bruce asked.
Zachary nodded. “Definitely. Inform me the second you find something.”
"Yes, Mr. Nacht.” Bruce departed smartly.
Not long after that, Michael was ushered up into Zachary's office. He appeared nervous and unsettled.
Zachary, on the other hand, was much more at ease as he gestured boisterously to the seats.
After reappearing with a cup of coffee for the guest, Lucy retreated tactfully into the shadows of the room.
“To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr. Brown?" Zachary cut right to the chase.
Michael hesitated. “I was supposed to speak to Charlotte about this but she is currently abroad. She told me to speak to you instead.”
“You might as well be honest with me. She'll fill me in anyway.” Zachary glanced at his watch. “I have another meeting soon. You have ten minutes.”
“I'm sorry to have disturbed you.” It became evident to Michael that his appearance might have been rather sudden. “I only wish to clarify myself.”
Zachary nodded encouragingly. “Feel free to speak your mind.”
“I have had business dealings with Gold Group, it's true, but I was not aware of their true intentions of toppling Nacht Group. I put myself in touch with Ms. Gold when I found out. I didn't expect her to run into trouble as well.”
Michael drew a deep breath before continuing. “As for the incident with Helena, I did think that you and Charlotte were harsh to her. Jesse instigated the situation by coming to me, and with some provocative words to force me to pitch the business proposal to Charlotte. Once I realized his ulterior motive, I cut off ties with them immediately. I'd wanted to pull out my investment with them but it was too late. I am a victim of the Gold family’s actions too, Mr. Nacht, just as much as you. I apologize for my actions and wish to impress upon you that I did not know that they were being done to your detriment. I am also thankful that I didn't let it get out of hand. I came to you today because it was the right thing to do, not because I feared your retribution. I knew that you would at least conduct your own investigation to ascertain my involvement with the Golds before jumping to conclusions.”
“I only hope that my long-standing friendship with Charlotte would not be damaged by a misunderstanding,” Michael continued. “I need to clarify things with you to the best of my ability and make sure you understand what transpired. Though I can't claim to be morally superior than most, I would never dream of harming my friends.”
Michael paused to draw breath again.
"What's more, I'd realize recently that you had been seriously ill when Helena assaulted you with the vase. It must have almost claimed your life! No wonder Charlotte was so upset by it that she refused to let Helena off the hook. I'd thought that it was unreasonable to demand Helena’s head the way she did since it must have been merely a bruise. I was the one who was unreasonable. For that, and many other things, I would like to offer my sincerest apologies.”
Michael stood up and sank into a deep bow.
“Thank you for saying all of that,” Zachary said with a gracious smile. “Charlotte has always spoken highly of you. I hope that the friendship between the both of you blossoms into something that stands the test of time.”
“Thank you, Mr. Nacht.” Michael appeared thoroughly surprised.
“You must have lost a lot in the fiasco with Gold Group. Let me know if there's anything I could do to help.”
“That would be too much to ask of you.” Michael hastened to decline. “I just came here today to clarify things. I must say, it's a great burden off my chest to see you well and happy. I've taken up enough of your time, Mr. Nacht. Enjoy the rest of your day!”
“Goodbye, Mr. Brown.”
Chapter 1748: Again
Not long after his departure, Bruce returned with news confirming Michael's attestation.
Having almost been a pawn of Jesse's, Michael withdrew his involvement just in time when he realized what he was about to step into.
Originally intending to end their partnership, Michael found himself dragged further into it by Jesse, resulting in huge financial losses on his part.
I hope he takes this as a very expensive lesson not to be repeated again.
Michael also let his emotions dictate his downfall. Having borne Zachary and Charlotte some resentment on behalf of Helena, he had allowed Jesse to manipulate him.
There is always the darkest time when a man must choose the more difficult but ultimately correct decision.
Satisfied by the amount of proof gathered, Zachary did not deem it worthwhile to pursue Michael's involvement anymore. Contrary to what he had offered out of politeness, he was not going to offer the latter financial aid.
Everybody should bear the cost of their mistakes. The cost of Michael's mistake happens to be thirty-billion in damages.
As his afternoon was freed up, Zachary took the opportunity to conduct a video call with Charlotte. At that moment over at Xendale, Erihal, Charlotte was perusing some documents in the office with a thick leopard-print coat around her shoulders.
Around her sat a group of executives of Lindberg Corporation, all of whom watched her every move with apprehension.
Zachary smiled with satisfaction. The amount of money she brought back with her has managed to secure respect from her family's employees!
“I have some matters to attend to, Hubby,” she said rather stiffly in the presence of her subordinates. “I'll call you when I get back tonight!”
“Don't let me bother you, dear.”
After hanging up, Zachary read the report Ben had sent him via text.
Ms. Lindberg spent her first day in Xendale conducting a meeting with the executives of Lindberg Corporation. Mr. Lindberg and his staff were trying to come up with a solution to the financial constraint when Ms. Lindberg promptly announced that she had arrived with enough equity to tide the company over. Every eye was wide with shock when they saw the number. Even Mr. Lindberg was taken aback. Having not expected Ms. Lindberg to come prepared with that amount on hand, he pulled her aside to ask her where it came from. Ms. Lindberg told him that it came from you and showed him the approval letter with your signature. Mr. Lindberg appeared calm but he was visibly still reeling from the shock. All in all, Ms. Lindberg established her position within the company by the end of that day. Nobody else dared question her again after that. Mr. Lindberg had been attending to personal matters over the past two days and handed the company over to Ms. Lindberg. She rose to the occasion admirably...
The rest were words of flattery that sounded just plausible enough.
Zachary smiled as his eyes twinkled with pride. What a capable wife I have!
All that was left to do was to have the wedding.
At that moment in H City, Erihal, Charlotte was busy running a meeting.
As she was delegating some essential tasks to the executives, Lupine rushed in to whisper out of Danrique’s earshot. “Ms. Felch escaped again!”
"What?" Charlotte frowned. “What happened?”
“I'm not sure,” Lupine muttered worriedly, “but I heard this time she ran with the child. Mr. Lindberg is livid. He has sent someone to go after her.”
“I wonder when they will be able to put their differences aside and reconcile,” Charlotte sighed. “Forget it, it's out of our hands. Let's carry on with the meeting. This is Danrique’s problem, we shouldn't get involved.”
The meeting continued for several more minutes before a deafening screech and a momentary eclipse announced the arrival of an entire convocation of eagles.
The executives were visibly frightened. “It's her again! She's back!” they cried.
Chapter 1749: A New Chapter
Charlotte dropped her documents and made her way over to the window to marvel at the awe- inspiring view. Could Francesca be here to look for me?
“Meeting adjourned!” Danrique said in a cold voice.
The executives almost trampled over one another in their haste to leave the office.
“Danrique...”
“I knew it!" He gritted his teeth in consternation. “I know she wouldn't be able to let go of her money, so I locked her bank cards, ID, and jewelry away in a safe downstairs. She took the bait!" Charlotte was flabbergasted. Francesca is not here for me after all! She's here for her money.
"Get back,” Danrique ordered before pulling open his drawer to reveal a safe painted entirely in gold. “You have no business being here.”
I'm confident that she would not be able to escape with the safe without me noticing. If she’s going to try anyway, things might get dangerous for Charlotte.
“We can talk about it, Danrique,” Charlotte pleaded.
Danrique merely flapped his hands impatiently.
Charlotte did not need to be told twice. Beckoning at Lupine and Morgan, the trio left hurriedly. Charlotte turned to take one last look at the safe when they were at the door.
There was a photograph attached to the side of the safe. In that photograph, Danrique’s head was tilted with a cold expression on his face. Francesca wore a red wig and leaned close to him.
Both of them had their lips locked though they did not look like they were kissing.
Their encounter must have been secretly captured as they appeared taken aback in the picture. It must have been the only photographic proof of their intimacy in existence.
It was obvious how much Danrique valued that photograph by holding on to it all that time.
At that moment, it was ironically attached to the safe which served to lure and deceive Francesca. Charlotte could not resist herself. “How did you meet her, Danrique?”
"What's it to you? Scram.”
Danrique had made preparations for a fight to the death with Francesca and was not pleased to see Charlotte dawdling in the vicinity.
Charlotte pointed at the photograph on the safe. “Was that photograph of the both of you taken in secret when you first met?”
Danrique’s brusque remark was stifled when his gaze fell upon it as if he had forgotten its existence. As he gazed lingered on the photograph, the anger in his eyes seemed to soften as a complex mix of emotions welled up from within him.
“The success of all relationships worth having is based on communication, Danrique,” she said gently before departing. “It's no use being more headstrong than she is in the hopes of forcing her into conformity. You need to appeal to the beautiful past you both share and remind her of that.” Outside, the elevators were crammed full of panic-stricken employees as if the devil herself had come to claim their souls.
Morgan sighed. “What do you think it was that the future Mrs. Lindberg might have done? Why is everyone so afraid of her?”
"We should leave,” Lupine said hastily. “I don't think it's wise to be here when whatever Mr. Lindberg has planned for her gets set in motion.”
"She's right,” Charlotte agreed as she eyed the crowded elevators, opting instead to use the stairs. “Let's not get involved.”
“You're right, Charlotte. Let's go.”
The words were no sooner out of her mouth when several tawny eagles nearly collided with them. Lupine and Morgan pinned Charlotte against the wall out of harm's way.
Before the trio managed to regain their footing, a dark shadow flashed before their eyes as her enraged voice echoed menacingly through the stairwell.
"How dare you steal from me, you b*stard? I'm going to kill you!"
Charlotte gulped. “Run for it!"
Flanked by her convocation, Francesca burst into Danrique’s office.
Swiveling around in his armchair of black leather, he regarded her with a haughty expression as he toyed with the fountain pen in his fingers.
“Scoundrel!” she continued in a rage. “Rouge! I will-"
Before she could hurl more insults, a familiar voice blared from the overhead speakers.
“I, Francesca, hereby swear to repay Danrique for saving my life even if it means marrying him. May God smite me if I go back on the promise!”
As the final syllable of her recorded voice echoed throughout the room, a terrifying crash of thunder exploded outside the window like a divine reminder. Francesca shuddered before composing herself.
“Remember your promise, woman! Those were your words!” Danrique stood up and approached her. “In case you need a little reminder...”
Francesca kept her eyes fixed on his as the speaker blared her vow again, her mind casting back to many years before.
Chapter 1750: First Encounter
Like any other night, darkness descended four years ago upon the city to reveal the true splendor of the casinos of Lightspring.
Casino Inferno was the most popular casino in the city of late. As was the custom of the establishment, an opening ceremony preceded the gambling.
There were excited whispers amongst the patrons gathered there that that night was going to be more memorable than others.
Upon the stage, the red curtains rose slowly at the appointed hour.
A group of salivating men had been crowding below the stage well ahead of time for their favorite non-gambling attraction the casino had to offer.
The owner of Casino Inferno was in the business of auctioning young women and had a good supply of rare beauties.
Before the auction began, the men in the audience were already giving in to their primal instincts. With agonizing showmanship, the curtains finally rose high enough to reveal a large, ornate cage. White sash spilled out through the bars from within the cage and fluttered with the breeze as if beckoning the hearts of men toward greater sin.
“Start the auction! Start the auction!” chanted the men, maddened with lust.
Their fever was so contagious that it had tangibly raised the ambient temperature of the room, infecting even disinterested patrons with their enthusiasm.
When the curtains were fully raised, the cage was revealed to be filled with red motifs with a scantily clad young woman of exceptional beauty curled up on the bed of petals in deep sleep.
Her jet-black hair spilled out of the cage. As the men stared, stupefied with wonder, a breeze sent its scent wafting through the air.
The woman had a mesmerizing face. She was clad in a long white dress that was scarcely thick enough to even keep her warm in the sweaty, humid air on the stage. In fact, her dress made her look like an angel who had mistakenly fallen into Casino Inferno.
The crowd fell deathly silent as every eye was fixed on her with quivering anticipation.
The private room on the second floor contained a patron whose amber eyes were fixed upon the woman in the cage with a regal haughtiness as if he controlled her fate in his hands.
“Mr. Lindberg, please accept this gift as a token of my gratitude,” the owner of Casino Inferno simpered.
Danrique was clad in a white shirt. In the casino filled with debauchery and sin, his garment stood out as a beacon of purity and salvation.
“When's the show starting?”
“Time is of the essence! One of us could be spending time with this beauty instead of standing around waiting like idiots!”
“Can't wait any longer, mate?”
"Obviously not. I'm rock hard just looking at her.”
"Hah, good man! Keep it steady!”
The men below the stage burst into boisterous laughter.
The host walked on stage. “Silence, please! The auction is about to begin.”
“Yes, we know,” shouted the men impatiently. “Start the bidding!”
"Without further ado, the bidding starts at one million. Let the auction begin!”
“Two million!”
“Three million!”
“Five million!”
With such a prize at stake, the auction went by fiercely as the bidders made their intent clear. Danrique averted his gaze, losing interest. She obviously isn't Aunt Isabella’s daughter.
Having little interest in games like that, he was about to stand up and leave when a shout came from the stage. “She's awake!”
Danrique glanced across and found the woman in the cage to be stirring. Her trembling fingers were the first to twitch.
“Ten million!” roared a sonorous voice belonging to a large man, startling the crowd into complete silence.
Several seconds later, the hall was abuzz with speculation.
“Ten million going once, ten million going twice, sold!”
The usher banged the gavel at the final word.
"Aiden’s going to have a good time tonight!”
The men below the stage displayed jealousy and admiration. Many were whistling and making lewd remarks.
“Yes,” Aiden said as his eyes gleamed. “A good time indeed.”
The woman in the cage got up slowly to her feet. With one hand supporting her head, another held on to the bars of the cage as she swayed dangerously on the spot.
Francesca squeezed her eyes shut in an attempt to organize the fragmented memories swimming around her mind's eye.