Ch. 1881..1890
Chapter 1881 The Four Great Families
"Birthday party?” Francesca sat up straighter in surprise. “Is it Danrique’s birthday today?”
“Yes, it is.” Gordon nodded.
“That's weird. Why are other people preparing his birthday celebration instead of his family?” Francesca asked in confusion. “What's that about?”
“Well...” Gordon trailed off as he thought about it for a second. “You're going to become part of the Lindberg family eventually, so I had better let you know about the four great families first.”
“Okay!”
Francesca was already intrigued. She really wanted to know why exactly the Lindberg family would have such immense control along with the other three great families. How could these four families be more influential than the royal family?
Gordon began telling her everything.
“There are four great families: The Harringtons, the Yarrows, the Atkinson, and, of course, the Lindbergs. A hundred years ago, the four families founded the Lindberg Corporation.
“This company really took off and eventually became highly renowned because of the cooperation between the four great families, as well as the skillful management by the Lindberg ancestors. "However, after Old Lady Lindberg passed away, the Lindberg Corporation higher-ups stopped getting along. Once Mr. Lindberg took over at a young age, the four great families began to split apart.
“The Harrington, Yarrow, and Atkinson families refused to be led by the Lindbergs and constantly plotted how to get a bigger portion of the shares. They wanted to be on the same level as the Lindbergs, and at one point even that wasn't enough. They wanted to overthrow the Lindbergs and take over the company.”
Gordon suddenly paused and said seriously, “They definitely have an ulterior motive for planning this banquet. Of course, they wouldn't dare to do anything major, but they certainly didn't have the best intentions. With this in mind, please stick closely to Mr. Lindberg and don't lose sight of him.” "Well, if this is the case, then why did he want me there?” Francesca asked, now uncomfortable with the prospect of her attending. “What if they'll target me from now on?”
“Mr. Lindberg will protect you,” Gordon said with a chuckle. “Don’t worry. No matter how sinister they may seem, all they're after is money. They wouldn't dare get on Mr. Lindberg's bad side, and they definitely won't bother you.”
"Are you sure?” Francesca pursed her lips. “Danrique is too arrogant sometimes. It's always better to be safe than sorry.”
“But-"
“It's okay. I got it.”
Francesca couldn't be bothered to say more. It wasn't as if she was actually going to get married to Danrique. She was simply a last-minute cover-up, so those people probably wouldn't waste too much effort on her anyway.
Gordon didn’t say anything else.
Francesca lay against the headrest and closed her eyes to take a nap. However, the moment she began to fall asleep, they arrived at their destination.
One of the subordinates opened the door for her. The moment she stepped out, two female bodyguards reached out to help her, but she was already standing on the ground steadily. Compared to the other female guests, she was extremely comfortable and self-sufficient.
“That's quite the crowd.”
She glanced at the flurry of expensive cars parked all around.
Some extravagantly dressed people were already waiting to greet others by the sidewalk. Francesca was still zoned out looking at the people around her when she heard a few cars approaching. She turned to see some silver cars pull up and the bodyguards immediately rushed over.
The doors opened and a pair of long legs stepped out, followed by the most perfect man she had ever seen. To put the cherry on top, he was currently walking toward her.
Francesca's jaw almost dropped in shock. Danrique was dressed in a white suit, and he looked like he had just walked out of a painting. He was breathtakingly handsome.
"What are you looking at?”
Danrique reached out and caressed her head softly. Their height difference made it seem like he was an adult teasing a child.
“You look great,” Francesca said as she looked up at him admiringly.
Danrique smiled and reached out a hand to her.
She hesitated, but couldn't hold herself back from putting her hand in his. He naturally intertwined their fingers together and held her hand tightly.
Almost instantaneously, she felt a surge of warmth rush up her arm and into her heart.
Her heartbeat began to speed up and her pretty little face began to redden.
Danrique couldn’t help but feel his heart pump a little faster at the sight of her embarrassed and shy expression. He leaned down to kiss her on the forehead and walked with her hand-in-hand to the palace.
Chapter 1882 I Would Like A Glimpse Too
“Mr. Lindberg!”
A bunch of people dressed to the nines walked toward Danrique and greeted him in Erihalean. Francesca hadn't known a lick of Erihalean when she first came, so all she had picked up were a couple of phrases from living in the castle for the past few days.
By the sound of it, she realized that these were the right-hand men of the Harrington, Yarrow, and Atkinson families.
They were still treating him with a lot of respect and Francesca couldn't really tell that anything was up
Feuds between families were always complicated, though, and Francesca couldn't be bothered to think about it.
She wouldn't have had to think about it if she hadn't sensed that they kept glancing over at her, as if trying to figure out where she came from.
Danrique didn't introduce her to them, and they didn't ask either. They simply continued chatting until they reached the palace.
The palace was practically shimmering with gold and bright lights. The opalescent diamond chandeliers glittered and the music flowed gently among the large hall. It created an elegant, romantic atmosphere along with the soft chatter from the well-dressed guests.
It was quite the grand sight.
However, the moment Danrique walked into the hall with Francesca, everyone turned to look and bowed at them.
Two middle-aged men walked over and greeted Danrique enthusiastically.
Francesca didn't really understand, but she managed to catch that they were the heads of the Yarrow and Atkinson families.
They weren't as humble as the right-hand men from before, but they were enthusiastic and friendly, as if they were a pair of uncles who were proud of their successful nephew. They even asked about Francesca.
Danrique placed an arm around her shoulder and said, “This is my fiancée, Cece.”
“Fiancée?”
The Yarrow and Atkinson families were both extremely shocked and their expressions became almost theatrical.
“Wow! The two of them were busy picking out suitable candidates for you. To think that you've already got a fiancée!”
Francesca looked up at the sound of a casual voice and saw a tall, handsome man.
He looked to be about thirty to forty years old and his eyes were extremely deep-set. His features were chiseled like that of a Roman bust and he had a dangerous aura radiating from his gaze despite the fake smile on his lips.
The fake smile remained as he looked Francesca up and down.
She wasn't scared in the slightest. On the contrary, she stared back with a raised eyebrow, looking for all the world as if she was ready to challenge him.
After all, she had already seen a countless number of carnivorous beasts in the wild. Why would she be afraid of any human being?
She wasn't even afraid of Danrique, so she certainly wouldn't be afraid of him.
“We were planning to announce it soon. What's the rush, anyway?”
Danrique brought Francesca in closer to his embrace as he spoke and stared at the other man coldly. “Hello, Harrier.”
“Where did you find your little girlfriend, Danrique?” Harrier finally looked away from Francesca and at Danrique instead. “She's pretty cute.”
Danrique frowned.
Kevin immediately spoke up to get rid of the tension. “Harrier, you know Danrique doesn’t appreciate jokes like that. You should know better as an elder.”
"Yes!" Gerard said. “Since Danrique already has a fiancée, we-"
“Come on, Mr. Atkinson, you already brought your daughter to the banquet. He has to at least take a look, doesn't he?” Harrier said with an ambiguous smile. “And you too, Mr. Yarrow. You may not have a daughter, but I heard that you brought your niece here to be part of the line-up. How could we simply cancel such an extravagant pageant for the one and only Danrique Lindberg?”
“Harrier!”
Danrique was already on the verge of losing his temper.
“Danrique, everyone got this ready just for you. You can't just chase them away now, right? Just take a look. I'm sure this future missus won't mind, right?”
Harrier sounded completely nonchalant, as if he were trying to coddle Danrique.
It would have been hard to get angry at him without a concrete reason.
Danrique was about to speak when Francesca opened her mouth. “Sure! I'd love to see them.” Everyone turned to look at her. She may have been petite, but her eyes gleamed and she seemed completely at ease in such a difficult situation.
Chapter 1883 Rivals
Danrique looked at Francesca deeply and gestured nonchalantly.
Essentially, he was saying to let them do whatever his fiancée wanted.
Harrier looked at Francesca meaningfully before clapping his hands twice. The music immediately stopped and the chattering guests retreated knowingly.
The curtains raised up and the stage lit up brightly.
Kevin and Gerald started to bring Danrique to his seat.
Everyone else only dared to sit down after Danrique and the other three great families had been seated.
Only then did Donald come over to greet them.
Danrique finally replied to someone for the first time that night and even invited him to sit down with them.
Only then did Francesca realize that he had always been there. Even though he was a shareholder of the company as well as a member of the Lindberg family, he still ranked below the three great families.
He was only able to sit down after Danrique and the other three great families sat down.
This only served to show how seriously Erihal took its hierarchy.
Francesca glanced over but failed to catch a glimpse of Eva. She wondered if she was about to take part in the selection as well.
Still, Francesca didn't know what everyone meant by “selection’. Was he supposed to select a girlfriend, a fiancée, or was Erihal simply a country wherein he was allowed to get married to more than one woman?
She was in the midst of her thoughts when the lights dimmed and the music smoothly switched from a gentle, romantic piano piece to a classy jazz number.
Some dancers dressed in sexy tight dresses began dancing to a seductive jazz choreography. Every single movement, expression and gaze was meant to unleash their most alluring self.
The three great families never stopped staring at Danrique for his reaction.
Danrique, however, wasn't the least bit interested in them. He simply stared at the performance with a cold stare as he sipped his wine.
Francesca, on the other hand, widened her eyes and admired the performers boldly. In Chanaean, she marveled, “Wow! Erihal ladies have great assets. Not only are their hips curvy, but their chests are too and their legs are so long!”
“Pft-" Danrique almost spat out his drink.
What is up with this woman? The others were trying to get him to choose another wife, and yet she was simply admiring the performances.
"Check out the bodies on those girls!”
She continued watching excitedly with a bright smile on her face. It was starting to seem as if these performances were meant for her and not Danrique.
Both the Yarrow and Atkinson families were staring in surprise while Harrier simply continued observing them with a hard-to-read smirk on his face.
As for Donald, he glanced at Francesca and turned to apologize to Danrique.
“I'm sorry, Danrique. Yesterday, Eva brought Ms. Cece out but she ended up getting drunk herself and didn't manage to take good care of Ms. Cece. I've already sternly reprimanded her earlier today and also punished those bodyguards.”
Here, he paused and turned to apologize to Francesca. “Ms. Cece, I wish to apologize on behalf of Eva's irresponsibility. I can't let this just pass as a senior of the family. Please give me a time and date so that I can treat you and Danrique properly this time.”
“Don’t worry about it. Eva was great-"
Francesca didn't get to finish her sentence as a loud round of applause washed over her voice.
The jazz choreography had finished and a Latin dance performance was now going onstage.
The cheerful music lit up the atmosphere, but Danrique seemed completely unaffected. He even began entertaining the idea of leaving.
Francesca, however, continued to watch enthusiastically and clapped along to the rhythm of the music.
Danrique smiled at the sight of her happiness. So she likes to watch these performances, he mused Gerard and Kevin glanced at each other and signaled for the butler to arrange to cut the performances short and push the real purpose of the show forward.
Harrier just smirked coldly as he continued observing everything quietly.
Soon enough, the Latin choreography finished as well.
The lights switched from the exciting flashing lights from before to a soft but bright glow of spotlights directed right at a white piano in the center of the stage. A lady dressed in a floor-length champagne gold gown walked toward it gracefully and sat down before beginning to play.
The woman was tall and slender, and her features were delicate and breathtakingly beautiful. Even the way she lifted her fingers screamed elegance and riches. She was obviously from a well-off family.
Chapter 1884 Malnourished
“Danrique, that's your Uncle Atkinson's daughter, Hazel.”
Kevin began to introduce her hurriedly. “She just returned from her studies in M Nation. She has two PhDs and is fluent in five languages. She's extremely skilled in many areas.”
"Do you remember Hazel, Danrique?” Gerard said with a chuckle. “You used to turn down the other kids who came to play with you, but you would always talk to Hazel.”
“I vaguely remember that, yes.”
Danrique looked toward the stage and his cold, indifferent stare became one of admiration. Francesca began to feel a little bit unhappy. Before this, when Eva tried to flirt with Danrique, he hadn't even looked at her.
However, he seemed to feel differently toward this Hazel girl.
"Hazel just got back, so I wanted to get her into the company as soon as possible,” Gerard said. “I only have one daughter, after all. She's going to take over my place in the company one day. What do you think about that?”
“It's your position. You can decide what you want to do with it,” Danrique explained mildly.
"Well, it's courtesy to run it by you first.” Gerard looked at his daughter with a proud gaze. “Hazel is truly the apple of my eye. Apart from work, I do wish she would have a proper home to go to one day. Perhaps a family of her own.”
Suddenly, he paused as if he had just remembered something and turned to look at Francesca with an awkward smile. “Ah, I forgot that you already have a fiancée. Just forget I said anything.” Francesca hadn't even wrapped her head around whatever Gerard had just said, but at the sight of his stare and his reaction, she could get a hint.
He obviously wanted to set his daughter up with Danrique.
“Hazel is a fine young woman. She'll find her Romeo one day.”
Danrique’s answer didn't seem simply courteous or polite. Instead, it seemed as if he was being genuine.
“Has Danrique and Ms. Cece already gotten engaged?” Kevin asked. “I hadn't even heard about you two beforehand, much less the fact that she’s now your fiancée.”
Kevin smiled at Francesca. In his head, he was thinking, She can't even understand me, so it doesn't matter.
"Yes. Don't let any random person take advantage of you,” Harrier cut in. “You just took over the Epea and Adrune market, so they probably hate your guts. That pastor might already have begun laying down his trap.”
“You're really quite full of rubbish today,” Danrique said coldly as he glared at Harrier with a stare full of knives.
Harrier shrugged, finally falling silent.
The sound of the piano finally drifted to a close. Once the song finished, Hazel took a graceful bow and began walking toward Danrique.
The spotlight shone on her and everyone in the room turned to stare.
“Hello, L. It's been awhile. Do you remember me?”
Hazel automatically greeted Danrique in her honey-like voice.
"Of course,” Danrique said with a slight smile. “Nice to finally see you again.”
“Yes, it is.”
Hazel stared at him admiringly and was about to speak when she spotted Francesca next to him. “This is..?"
“This is my fiancée.” Danrique put an arm around Francesca and introduced her in Ustranasion. “Her name is Cece."
Francesca’s heart surged with warmth and she smiled graciously.
“Ah.” Hazel was stunned. She hadn't known about Danrique’s fiancée at all.
"Cece, this is Hazel. She's Mr. Atkinson's daughter,” Danrique introduced in Ustranasion.
“Ah, hello!” Francesca greeted Hazel.
“Hello,” Hazel hurriedly replied, reaching out to shake Francesca’s hand.
Francesca wasn't used to such a greeting, but she followed along nonetheless.
She couldn't help but glance at Hazel and look her up and down, from her pretty face to her chest, waist and legs.
Then, she looked down at her own unassuming slopes.
She used to think she had quite a decent figure, but here in Erihal, she looked like a malnourished kid.
Chapter 1885 You Must Be Careful
Francesca couldn't help but feel threatened. She had heard that men all liked ladies with full, sexy figures. Could Danrique be the same?
She turned to look at him, and he happened to be staring at her as well. “Are you hungry? Do you want to get a bite to eat in the lounge?”
“That sounds great.”
Francesca was starting to want to leave. She was beginning to feel the stares of countless people just focused on her, and she didn't like it.
Danrique gestured subtly and two female bodyguards showed up to bring Francesca away. Francesca turned around after a few steps only to see Hazel sitting in what had been Francesca’s seat, elegantly having a conversation with Danrique.
She frowned, feeling her heart clench a little bit. Did Danrique just want to get me away so he could talk to other women?
"Cece!"
Suddenly, a cheerful voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
She looked at and saw Eva.
Eva was dressed rather subtly today. She was in a pale lavender gown and had been sipping wine with a few other socialites in the corner. All this time, she hadn't dared to go near Danrique.
After all, the three great families were here. She wasn't important enough to steal the spotlight. "Hi!" Francesca said before asking teasingly, “Why aren't you going to talk to Danrique?”
“Ahem!” Eva cleared her throat awkwardly. “Anyway, I'm sorry for getting drunk yesterday and not taking better care of you.”
“That's alright,” Francesca said with a chuckle. “I'm going to rest in the lounge. Do you want to follow me?”
"Okay!" Eva said excitedly.
The two of them arrived at the lounge, where the caterers had already laid out a table of exquisite dishes.
Francesca started eating the moment she sat down, not caring about her supposed elegant image in the least.
Eva couldn't help but stare in surprise. “Cece, who exactly are you?”
"What?" Francesca raised an eyebrow in confusion.
“Well, I-" Eva stuttered, not knowing if she should be honest.
“You must be wondering, if I'm from some important organization who put me through rigorous training for this role, then why don't I have the elegance or manners to show for it? But it I'm not, how come I still seem like such a handful to pick with?”
Francesca was right on the money.
"Yes!" Eva nodded.
“Well,” Francesca giggled and placed a pastry onto Eva's plate. “What's the name of that pianist lady again?”
“Her name is Hazel,” Eva replied. “She's Mr. Atkinson's only daughter, and he spent a lot of time shaping and perfecting her into the ideal woman. She did well despite those expectations and is extremely skilled and talented. In fact, she's the top pick for all three great families.”
“Pick? Picked for what?" Francesca frowned.
"About that...” Eva trailed off hesitatingly.
“Are men allowed to have more than one wife here in Erihal?”
“No. We're strictly monogamous,” Eva rushed to clarify. “The men in Erihal may be intimidating, but women aren't taken lightly either.”
“That's weird.” Francesca said in confusion. “Danrique already told them he had a fiancée, so why are they trying to push a girlfriend onto him?”
“I'm sorry for being straightforward,” Eva said as she looked down on the ground. “But you and Danrique haven't gotten married yet. You also don't have any important background- actually, they can't even figure out where you came from. They couldn't care less about you.”
“Oh. That makes sense.” Francesca nodded.
Eva sighed. “That's why you have to be careful.”
With a curious frown, Francesca asked, “Careful about what?"
Eva looked at her, a little bit lost for words. “You don't understand, do you? Think about it. If they want to reach Danrique, they have to get rid of you first.”
"Oh!" Francesca’s eyes widened. “That also makes sense!”
Eva suddenly thought of something and hurriedly tossed the pastry away. “Crap, these pastries wouldn't have been poisoned, would they?”
“Probably not,” Francesca said as she continued munching away. “The pastries are fine. The fruit tea, however, is not.”
"What?" Eva widened her eyes in shock. “Are you serious? Don’t mess with me!”
Chapter 1886 Pretend To Be Vulnerable
"Did you drink it?” Francesca was still eating.
Eva held the cup of fruit tea and gave Francesca a helpless look.
“You'll be fine, don't worry.” Francesca then took a sip of the tea.
“What?”
Eva was stunned. Didn't she say there's poison in the fruit tea? Why did she drink it?
While Eva was working out the logic in her mind, she started feeling dizzy. She cupped her head with her hands and panicked. “M-My head is spinning. Is it because of the poison?”
"Go on, and take a little nap. You'll be fine.” Francesca continued taking another sip of the fruit tea as if she was not bothered.
"Help-"
The color drained out of Eva's face. She wanted to run out to get help, but the moment she stood up, she instantly collapsed onto the couch.
“You poor thing. I must have frightened you.”
After taking a glance at Eva, Francesca turned around to check the surroundings. There was dead silence outside the room. It looks like someone had distracted the two female bodyguards.
She was determined to find out the culprit who tried to poison her.
Francesca clapped her hands and lolled on the couch. She then shut her eyes and pretended to fall asleep.
Seconds later, someone opened the door and entered the room.
“Quick.”
“All right.”
Someone walked up to Francesca.
Francesca could feel danger approaching. She opened her eyes and saw a woman standing in front of her.
The woman dressing as a maid was about to inject her with a syringe.
Upon noticing the hard glint in Francesca’s eyes, the maid froze and did not know what to do. She was surprised that Francesca was wide awake.
Another maid, who seemed to be more alert, immediately stepped up and pinned Francesca to the couch. She then turned to her partner and said, “Quick!”
The maid was ready to jab Francesca with the syringe.
Francesca immediately lifted her leg and kicked the maid. She then grabbed the other maid's shoulders and shoved her to the back, causing the maid to collapse onto the coffee table.
"You-"
The two maids’ faces turned pallid. They looked at Francesca in disbelief and were taken aback by how strong the petite woman was.
Francesca smirked and looked up at them with a cold look.
When the two maids were about to take her down, Francesca looked out of the room and yelled, "Help-"
Her reaction caught the two maids off guard. They had no choice but to flee from the window.
At the same time, two bodyguards then barged into the room
One of the bodyguards ran after the two maids, while the other walked up to Francesca to check on her. “Are you all right, Ms. Cece?”
“My head is spinning-" Francesca massaged her temples. She acted as if she was vulnerable.
Soon, Danrique walked in and noticed how frail Francesca looked. His expression turned grim and ordered, “Find them, and bring them back alive!”
"Yes, Sir!” Gordon immediately instructed his subordinates to look for the two maids.
"What happened?”
Kevin and Gerard rushed over and were shocked to see Francesca like this.
On the contrary, Harrier remained calm. “Are you all right? Shall we call a doctor?”
“Eva-" Donald walked up to Eva when he noticed she was lying unconscious on the couch. “What's going on?”
“I want all of you to get to the bottom of this.”
“Yes, Sir."
Danrique scanned the room and noticed the coffee table was shoved out of its original position. After studying the mess on the carpet for a few seconds, he turned around and asked Francesca, "Are you all right?”
“I'm fine.” Francesca looked like she had jumped out of her skin.
Danrique kept mum. He carried her in his arms and walked out of the room.
Francesca leaned on his chest as if she had found a haven.
After leaving the room, she bumped into Hazel, who looked bewildered.
When their gaze met, Francesca could see the jealousy in her eyes. Nonetheless, Hazel did not give out any other complicated emotions.
I don't think she’s the one behind this.
Who is the mastermind then? That few men?
Men are indeed vicious and cunning creatures.
Chapter 1887 Suspicion
When Danrique passed through the hall, he saw there were still a few well-dressed aristocratic ladies who were waiting for their turn. Aside from Hazel, the three great families also planned to introduce a few more ladies to Danrique.
The families didn’t expect the banquet to go wrong before the ladies could show up.
At that moment, there was no one else but Francesca in his eyes.
Upon getting into the car, he examined her. “Are you all right?”
“My head's spinning...” Francesca weakly lay in her seat.
“Call Dr. Killian,” Danrique ordered.
“No need!” She stopped him. “I'm just a little frightened. That's all. I'll be fine once I sleep.” “Really?” He stared at her clear eyes.
“Mhm.” She nodded.
Danrique gestured for his subordinate to drive. “Very well.”
At that moment, Kevin and Nathan rushed over to their location to see them off.
“I'm sorry for tonight, Danrique. I promise you, we'll investigate the matter and give you an explanation of what happened to your birthday banquet,” Kevin apologized regretfully.
“That's right. We'll investigate it thoroughly,” Nathan added.
“No need,” Danrique replied coldly. “My people will handle it.”
“That...”
“I'm leaving. Goodbye.” Danrique waved before the car left.
At that moment, Francesca shifted her line of sight to the outside of the window. She saw Hazel standing at the side of the road staring at them with a disappointed expression.
Danrique glanced at her for a second before looking away. As he did, his eyes met with Francesca’s sharp look.
His eyebrows furrowed. “Why are you looking at me like that?”
"Do you like Hazel?" Francesca stared at him coldly.
“No. I like you,” he answered swiftly.
She narrowed her eyes and questioned, “Then why do you keep stringing her along?”
“What do you mean by that?” His Chanaean wasn't good enough to understand it.
“It's...” She wanted to explain, but she changed her mind when the words arrived on her lips. “In any case, it's a problem.”
Instead of answering, he asked, “Do you remember how we first met back then?”
“What?” She couldn't recall.
"Don’t remember?” He stared at her profoundly. “How about the city? Do you remember which city itis?”
"Didn't we meet on a mountain?” Francesca replied casually, “It's been a long time. Who would've remembered?”
There was a subtle change in Danrique’s look when he heard that. Ultimately, he chose to stay silent. She was quite annoyed he refused to answer her question about Hazel truthfully, so she turned her head away and ignored him.
They didn't say a word to each other on the way back.
Upon arriving home, he wanted to carry her down from the car, but she got off by herself and headed straight into the castle.
He furrowed his eyebrows as he stared at her back and ordered, “Go investigate.”
“Roger!” Sean replied. He was smart, so of course, he knew what Danrique was thinking.
Francesca was still huffing slightly when she returned to her room. Soon after, she returned to her senses. Wait, why am I angry? I'm just pretending to be his fiancée. It's not real. He can love whoever he wants. Besides, I'll be leaving sooner or later...
When her train of thought ended there, she crawled up and put all the delicate jewelry in the jewelry box into a bag.
Then she retrieved her backpack from the ceiling of the restroom and shoved the jewelry bag into the backpack. I have to find a way to leave here as soon as possible. No more delays...
Inside the study, Danrique was drinking a cup of cold wine. He stared at the old photo on his pocket watch. Then, he superimposed Cece’s image on Francesca’s appearance in his mind. Both of them should be the same person, so why didn't she remember? Additionally, her eyes were no longer simple and pure, like back then. The current her has a sharp look, knows how to disguise herself, and even scheme... Is she really Cece?
Chapter 1888 Seduced
In the middle of the night, Gordon reported, “Eva's drink was drugged. That was why she fell into a coma. The two servants responsible had been caught. One of them ran into a truck when escaping. She's currently in a coma due to her severe injury. The other took a pill and stopped breathing. Both of them were willing to die in order to protect the mastermind. Also, the test results of the poison in the syringe came back. It's a type of poison that can control a person’s mind. They probably tried to inject it into Ms. Cece but failed. Thankfully, our people reacted fast and immediately rushed in to prevent that. Otherwise, it would be troublesome.”
“No, our people were sent away. They didn't make it in time,” Sean informed as he observed Danrique’s expression carefully. “I saw the marks on the carpet. The coffee table was smashed, and there were traces of blood on it. Perhaps there was already a fight in the room before she went in...” “That's strange.” Gordon furrowed his eyebrows. “There were only Ms. Cece and Eva inside the room. If Eva fainted, who was doing the fighting?”
Sean silently stared at Danrique.
“Ms. Cece didn't faint, but with how weak she was, she shouldn't be...” Gordon was stunned when he said that. “Oh yeah, Ms. Cece also consumed the drugged drink, but she’s fine. What is going on here?”
“It would appear Ms. Cece isn't an ordinary person.” Sean sighed meaningfully.
"What do you mean?” Gordon was confused.
“There's a circus show tomorrow night, right?” Danrique abruptly brought it up. “Book a few seats for us.”
“Roger.” Gordon was going to leave to do that, but Danrique stopped him.
“Call Mylo here.”
“Roger.” Gordon promptly brought Mylo into the room. Mylo was pretty excited because at that moment, as he stood in front of Danrique, he felt as though he was more important than any other bodyguards.
He bowed politely upon arriving in the study room. “Mr. Lindberg!”
Danrique asked, “What does one mean by “stringing someone along?”
"Uhm..." Mylo thought about it and replied seriously, “It means a man and a woman have a vague relationship that is not exposed.”
"If your girlfriend said you're stringing another woman along and looked unhappy, what does that mean?”
“It's a good thing.” Mylo quickly added, “It means she’s jealous.”
“Jealous?” Danrique expression looked better. “So that's what it means...”
"Yes, yes. If a woman is jealous of a man, it means she has started to like him. It's a good sign. In fact, one should make their partner jealous a lot during the initial stage of a relationship to stimulate her possessiveness!”
Danrique nodded, even though he didn't fully understand it. “Seems like that is the case. You can leave now.”
“Understood.”
Francesca didn't at all sleep well. She had a dream where Danrique married Hazel while she was watching from afar. She wanted to stop it, but something was preventing her from moving.
It made her panic. She tried to shout at him, but no voice leaped out of her throat.
She watched him and Hazel exchange their vows and wedding rings. Right as he was about to kiss Hazel, she got so angry that she woke up.
When she opened her eyes, a ball of rage was still burning in her heart. Why do I have a reaction like this? Even if Danrique does love Hazel, why does it matter to me? I never wanted to stay with him, and I have to leave this place eventually... Wait, is it because I was seduced by his good looks and fell in love with him without noticing?
Chapter 1889 Escape
When that thought crossed Francesca’s mind, she shuddered. No! I can't make that mistake right now! I have already made up my mind to never marry, never give birth to a child, and never be bound to anyone by a vow. I don't want to be kept in this castle, this luxurious cage. That's why I mustn’t be moved by Danrique. I need to leave as soon as possible.
She took in a deep breath and kept reminding herself to find an opportunity to escape.
Danrique had already left for his company when she woke up.
Upon washing herself and finishing her breakfast, a doctor came to check her wound and change her medicine.
After resting for a few more days, her wounds had more or less recovered. The doctors were surprised by how quickly her wound healed.
She also felt that her injury recovered really quickly. However, the metal pieces in her brain were still lodged in there, which was a problem.
"Are you feeling discomfort anywhere else, Ms. Cece? Mr. Lindberg asked me to give you a full-body examination. If there are other problems, we can take care of them together,” Killian asked politely. “No,” Francesca immediately replied. “I'm feeling quite well. I don't need a check-up.”
“Your wound may be healing, but you aren't looking any better. I'm afraid there are still issues affecting your health. It will be for the best if you go through the examination and receive early treatment—"
“I said I don't need it.” She cut him off. “I know my own body.”
“Very well.” Killian lowered his head.
She was a little ticked off. Has Danrique started to suspect my identity? Is that why he intentionally sent this doctor to test me?
It was then Norah walked in with a smile. “Mr. Lindberg is taking you to a circus later, Ms. Cece. You should get prepared. You'll be leaving in an hour.”
“A circus?” Francesca was excited. “Where?”
“In Xendale Theater.” Norah laughed. “It's where the biggest performances are held.”
“Is the theater in the middle of the city?” Francesca asked.
“It's on the southern side, near the airport...” Norah continued to introduce the specialty of the circus.
Naturally, Francesca wasn't interested in that as she planned her escape route. There's going to be a lot of people in the theater, and I bet I can make use of the animals there. It's near the airport too! I feel like this is the best opportunity the heavens had given me. I mustn't waste it.
"Ms. Cece. Ms. Cece...” Norah's voice interrupted Francesca's line of thought. The latter returned to her senses. “Mhm?"
“I'll ask someone to help you get dressed,” Norah informed caringly.
“No need. I'm just going to a circus, not a banquet.” Francesca waved her hand. “I can take care of myself. You lot head out first and help me prepare some snacks to eat in the car.”
“Very well.” Norah nodded and headed out.
Once there was only Francesca left in the room, she locked the door. She wanted to change into a casual outfit, but she soon realized her wardrobe was filled with pretty dresses. Even clothing meant to be worn in the house were dresses.
She picked a white, long dress and a white coat. Then, she wore a pair of boots and put on her backpack.
Inside the backpack were her documents and the jewelry Danrique gifted her. I have to escape successfully tonight.
When she arrived on the ground floor, Norah had already prepared the snacks.
Francesca entered the car and used her phone's GPS to find the shortest path to escape from the theater to the airport.
After a while, she completed her escape preparation. All that was left was the escape itself.
The car promptly left the castle and headed to the theater.
There were only Sloan and Mylo in the car. However, there was an additional car in the front and back of the one she was sitting in. Therefore, escape wouldn't be easy.
Even if she managed to do that, they would chase after her quickly. It was still difficult to leave Xendale, so she planned to come up with another idea upon arriving at the theater.
Chapter 1890 Be Wary
Once the car went into the theater, Sloan, Mylo, and the other subordinates escorted her into the building.
Danrique had already arrived in the VIP lounge. He was currently chatting with Donald and Harrier about work. Sitting quietly at the side were Hazel and Eva. Both of them were staring at Danrique with admiration.
Francesca was stunned. She thought it was just going to be her and him, yet he brought so many people with him, including Hazel.
"Cece..." Eva greeted enthusiastically when she saw Francesca.
As the saying went, the enemy of my enemy was my friend. Compared to Francesca, Hazel was the greater threat in Eva's eyes.
If Hazel married Danrique and united the two families, then there was nothing Donald could do. However, Francesca was a nobody, so Donald could still get rid of her.
Of course, in Eva's mind, if she could use Francesca to approach Danrique, that would be for the best.
"Greetings, Ms. Cece!” Hazel stood up and greeted. Unlike Eva's enthusiastic greeting, hers was more polite and composed.
“Greetings!” Francesca politely replied to both of them before sitting on a nearby couch.
Eva approached her and whispered next to her gossipingly, “Are you all right, Cece? I heard someone attempted to kill you last night. I was freaked out when I woke up. What exactly happened?”
“I'm not so sure myself. Your uncle had probably told you the story.” Francesca looked at her with a half-smile. “In any case, someone is trying to hurt me. You should be careful and keep your distance from me, just in case.”
“Ugh...” Eva was a little scared when she heard that. “I think so too. I met you twice, and both times I got into trouble.”
“You made yourself drunk the first time. That doesn't have anything to do with me. However, I did involve you in the mess last night. Thankfully, we're both unhurt.”
“Do you know who hurt you?”
“No idea.” Francesca turned to Danrique. “He's probably investigating it.”
At that moment, Danrique was listening to Donald's report.
Harrier was enjoying his wine elegantly. When he saw Francesca had arrived, he smiled at her warmly and even raised his wine cup to greet her.
Francesca stared at him deeply and asked, “Who's that guy?”
“The master of one of the four great families, Mr. Harrington.” Eva covered her mouth and spoke at a low volume. “In the four great families, the Lindberg family sits at the top spot while the Harrington family sits on the second. His father passed away when he was young, so he’s the only member of his family. Right now, he’s in control of the Harrington family. The share he held in Lindberg Corporation is twenty percent, which makes him the second-biggest shareholder in the company..."
"He doesn't like Danrique?” Francesca didn't beat around the bush.
"Shh!" Eva swiftly reminded, “Keep your voice down.”
She glanced at Harrier timidly and lowered her voice. “Mr. Harrington is ten years older than Mr. Lindberg. Eleven years ago, when the incident at the Lindberg residence occurred, Mr. Lindberg was still young. The shareholders in the company suggested making Mr. Harrington the CEO of the corporation. However, Mr. Lindberg, who was only sixteen that year, forcefully snatched that position away, angering Mr. Harrington as a result. Both of them butt heads against each other ever since. Mr. Harrington never stopped giving Mr. Lindberg a hard time, but Mr. Lindberg always solved any problems thrown at him with no issue. It enraged Mr. Harrington because it meant he couldn't get any dirt on Mr. Lindberg. While both of them appeared to be getting along with each other on the surface, they were actually battling against each other to the death underneath. This is something everyone knows about.”
“Since Danrique is the CEO, thus making the Lindberg family the most powerful one in Lindberg Corporation, can't he just keep Harrier in line?” Francesca asked in a small voice too. “It seems like the others are afraid of him.”
"While Mr. Harrington possesses fewer shares compared to Mr. Lindberg, he has more supporters on his side. Both the Atkinson and Yarrow family are on his side, so even Mr. Lindberg has to mind what he does and can't just burn his bridges with Mr. Harrington.” Eva uttered carefully, “In any case, you must never mess with this guy. Also, he’s super perverted and super crafty. Be careful around him.”
"Got it.” Francesca glanced at Harrier and requested, “Since it's still early, how about we take a walk outside?”