Ch. 1931..1940

Chapter 1931

When Francesca woke up the next morning, Danrique had already gone missing.

A sense of disappointment engulfed her as she stared at the empty sofa beside the bed in a daze. After a long while, someone knocked on the door.

Only then did she snap out of her senses.

Helen had brought the medical staff over to check on Francesca.

Lying on the bed lazily, she let them conduct all sorts of checks on her.

Inspecting the back of Francesca's head, Helen teased, "Do you still remember me?"

"Yeah.We met at Summerbank."

Francesca had a deep impression of Helen.She thought that Helen's modern medicine skills were very impressive, and she seemed to respect traditional medicine a lot.

At the same time, she was very responsible and had a strong personality as well.

This was unlike other doctors, who would act all servile because of Danrique's status.

Hence, Francesca had a good impression of her.

"If you were willing to do the surgery back then, it would have a higher success rate than now." Helen looked at her injury and could not help but feel pity.

"Life and death are all up to fate!" said Francesca nonchalantly, as if she did not care at all.

"In Zarain, there's a saying that your body is a blessing from your parents” said Helen seriously.

"If you don't treasure your body, how can you answer to your parents?”

"I don't have parents” replied Francesca casually.

However, she said that, Dr.Felch's image appeared in her mind.She had been thinking about some people and things for the past two days.

Now that Dr.Felch’s image appeared in her mind so clearly, she remembered her fight with him when she left the mountain and could not help but feel guilty.

Dr.Felch had a gentle and benevolent personality.He rarely got angry, but when she left that day, he was raging with fury.

It was his first time saying such harsh words.He said that she did not need to come back if she left. In addition, he even warned her against saying that she was his disciple as he would find it embarrassing.

Because of what he said, she no longer contacted Dr.Felch.

Five years had passed since she left.

Over those five years, she had experienced quite a lot of hardships.

However, she kept reminding herself that she shall become famous and prove herself to Dr.Felch. Unfortunately, before she could accomplish anything much, her life was already in danger.

If she returned so pitifully like that, Dr.Felch would probably scold her.

"I'm going to change your bandages.It's going to hurt a bit, so hang in there,” reminded Helen softly.

"Okay," replied Francesca.

With the nurse's help, she flipped over to the other side and lay on the bed while hugging a pillow. Helen started to rebandage the back of her head.

Biting her lips, Francesca endured the pain and made no noises.

Soon, Helen skillfully changed the bandage and said in a troubled tone, "We cannot keep delaying this.We must quickly get into contact with Francesco.”

"What's up?" replied Francesca subconsciously before correcting herself.

"What?"

With her reputation, everyone thought that she was the only one who could do such a challenging surgery.

They did not know that Dr.Felch was even more skilled in medicine.

"I'm done, so I'll leave now."

After leaving some more instructions, Helen left.

The medical staff packed their items and helped Francesca flip back around.

However, she said, "It's okay.I'll just lie like this.It's comfortable.”

"Okay."

Without saying anything else, the medical staff grabbed their equipment and left.

At that moment, a medical staff suddenly asked, "Why aren't you going yet?"

"I'll clean the toilet before leaving,” replied another medical staff.

When Francesca heard that voice, she could not help but feel shocked.

"Okay.Thank you, then.”

The other medical staff left.

One of them even exclaimed softly, "The newbie is so diligent.She even offered to clean the toilet.” "Yeah! She's not in charge of that, right?"

"Maybe she wants to get closer to the big shots, build a relationship, and earn some tips?" "Perhaps."

Chapter 1932

The medical staff were all speaking in Ustranasion.

Knowing that Francesca could not understand Erihalean, he specially arranged for Ustranasion- speaking medical staff to take care of her.

Listening to their conversation, Francesca raised her head and stared at the chubby medical staff who was cleaning the trash.Her back was facing Francesca as she bent down and tidied the items. As Francesca could not see her face, she did not know how she looked like.She heard the sound of the door closing as all of the medical staff left.

Only then did the fat medical staff straighten herself.

She turned around and looked at Francesca, revealing a mischievous smile.

"Ms.Layla!" blurted Francesca.

"Shh..." Layla quickly shushed her and told her to lower her volume.

"How did you infiltrate this place?"

Francesca suppressed her excitement.

"Where's Anthony?"

"He's useless, so I got him to wait for me at a place.”

Layla walked to the bed and said softly, "Since a new batch of nurses has just transferred to the hospital two days ago, I played some tricks and managed to infiltrate this place.”

"Haha! You're amazing, Ms.Layla!"

Francesca was delighted.No matter what, it was always heartwarming to meet one's relatives. Layla rushed over to hug Francesca.

"You poor child! How did you get yourself so injured? Did that Danrique b*stard bully you? I'll teach him a lesson!"

"It's a long story" explained Francesca, trying to downplay the severity of the issue.

"I injured myself accidentally.It's not his fault..."

The ferry explosion was the main reason why she got injured. However, after his car crashed into her and she got kidnapped the previous day, her injury worsened.He would have to take a great deal of responsibility for that.

However, she did not want Layla to find out.Otherwise, considering Layla's fiery temper, she might do something.

"Are you dating him?" asked Layla excitedly.

"Anthony said that he’s quite handsome.ls it true?”

"Well..." Francesca was amused.

"He's handsome, but he's also very annoying.About dating..He wants to date me, but I don't." "Why not?"

Layla's expression was filled with curiosity.

"You know, I have a lot of things that I haven't finished,” explained Francesca exasperatedly.

"I like to be free too.l hate being restrained.”

"That's true.” Layla nodded.

"You grew up in the mountains and only entered society at sixteen years old.Since you love this huge world and have such ambitious dreams, you shouldnt be stuck in a single place.”

"Yeah." Francesca smiled bitterly.

"Anyway, I can't live beyond thirty years old.Won't I be ruining others’ life if I marry?"

"That's not a certainty.After treating yourself, isn't your illness under control now? Machines can't even detect anything wrong.”

Layla gazed at Francesca, her heart aching.

"It's under control now, but no one can be sure that it won't relapse in the future,” said Francesca with a sigh.

"I regained some of my memories over the past few days.Dr.Felch said that if I stayed in the mountains, he would treat me every day and I can live for a few years more.However, if I insist on leaving the mountain, I will not live beyond thirty years old."

"No, that won't happen!”

Layla shook her head anxiously.

"I believe that we can control our fates.Given how excellent your medical skills are, you can definitely cure yourself.Definitely!"

"Our lives and deaths..."

Francesca's lips curved into a bitter smile.

"Are dictated by heaven."

"Francesca, you aren't usually such a pessimistic person.You should be strong, optimistic, and enthusiastic!”

"Yeah, I didn't use to fear death.But for some reason, lately..."

Francesca cast her gaze downward and whispered, "I'm feeling scared.”

When she said that, Danrique’s handsome face flashed across her mind.

The deeper in love he was, the more uneasy she felt.She did not like death and farewell, so she had never fallen in love.If she did not fall in love, her heart would not ache.

 

Chapter 1933

Layla could read Francesca's mind.

Hugging her again, Layla said, "Don't be afraid! We're here for you.

The three of us will always be your family"

After Francesca left the mountains, she got to know Anthony, Layla, and Lincoln.

The four of them had gone through all sorts of hardships and life-or-death situations.

In the end, they became a family despite not having any biological ties.

Over the past few years, Francesca had grown significantly with their help.

They helped her establish the Lovely Care orphanage.

From the first branch to a hundred and eighteen branches, the orphanage kept expanding to give all orphans in the world a home.

For the past few years, Anthony had been managing the finances, while Layla managed the home. Lincoln was also busy earning money to fund the orphanage.

The four of them had been working well together until Francesca got into this accident.

Knock! Knock! Knock! At that moment, someone knocked on the door and Norah's voice sounded. "Ms.Cece, I'm sending some food over.Can I enter?"

"Please come in!"

When Francesca spoke, she exchanged a look with Layla, who quickly left to clean the place up. Norah entered the door with two other maids.She lay out a nutritious breakfast on the table and said to Francesca with a smile, "I made your favorite pastries.You've already eaten oatmeal last night, so I prepared some chicken soup this time.Have a try!"

"Quick, give me a spoon!”

Francesca's eyes lit up as she stared at the bowl of chicken soup.

"Haha! Slow down.There's plenty."

Norah raised the hospital bed and passed a spoon to Francesca.

"I prepared some side dishes for you too."

"Wow! It's delicious!"

Francesca ate happily, her cheeks bulging with food.

Kerrie placed a pillow behind Francesca's back and asked happily, "Do you still remember me, Dr.Felch?"

Francesca turned around.

"Oh, it's you."

Kerrie was the nurse taking care of Francesca when she was back at Summerbank.

Back then, Kerrie had witnessed how skilled Francesca was in medicine.

To her surprise, Francesca became her female boss now.

"Yeah! Haha!" replied Kerrie with a laugh.

"When Mr.Lindberg saw that I took good care of you back then, he praised me for my nursing skills and asked Mr.Lowe to send me here to take care of you.”

"Mr.Lindberg really takes good care of you.He even hired a few more chefs from Zarain at home." Norah grinned widely.

"He even instructed the rest to build a shed and grow some fresh flowers, saying that it's better for the house to have some flowers."

“Um...

Francesca did not know what to say after hearing that.

Although Danrique was doing so much for her, all she wanted to do was to escape.lt made her seem quite ungrateful.

"Ms.Cece, why aren't you eating?"asked Norah in concern.

"Are you not liking the soup? There's other food too! Have a bite of these dumplings.”

"Okay! Thank you, Mdm.Norah."

Even though Francesca was thanking her, she was thinking that she needed to leave as soon as possible.

Otherwise, she would not have the chance to escape in the future.

While she was thinking, Layla walked out of the toilet while disguised as a medical staff.

Francesca glanced at her and told Norah, "Mdm.Norah, I'm a bit tired and would like to rest.” "Okay."

Norah quickly instructed the maids to keep the cutlery.

"Ms.Cece, since today's breakfast wasn't to your liking, I'll go back and cook it again for you."

"It's fine..."

Francesca felt guilty.

"Bye, Mdm.Norah!"

"Bye, Ms.Cece."

Norah left with the maids.

Only Kerrie was left behind in the room.

However, she did not intend on leaving and was cleaning the table attentively.

Narrowing her eyes, Layla crept toward her with a handkerchief.

Francesca glanced at Layla for a while before closing her eyes and pretending to be asleep.

"You can leave now.I can take over here."

Before Kerrie could finish her sentence, Layla covered her face with a handkerchief.Stunned, Kerrie swayed and her eyes lost focus.

 

Chapter 1934

"Go and guard the door" Layla ordered in a low voice.

“Understood.”

Kerrie turned docile all of a sudden.She slowly walked over to the door and stood guard there like a statue.

Layla immediately opened the window, upon which a gust of cold wind hit her in the face.

Phew! Fortunately, it's only the seventh floor here! Then, she pressed the watch on her wrist.

In no time, a familiar voice drifted out.

"Ms.Layla!"

"We're moving now."

"I make the arrangements right away!"

After ringing the alarm, Layla hurried over to Francesco and deftly removed the needle from the back of her hand.She draped a coat over the latter before helping her to the window.

"Can you make it?"

"Yes!"

Francesca strugglingly held on to the window sill to support herself while Layla dropped the rope down.

Subsequently, she grabbed onto the rope and got ready to jump down.

Knock, knock! At that precise moment, a knock suddenly sounded from outside the door. Stunned for a moment, Francesca reflexively glanced back over her shoulder.

"Ms.Felch, Mr.Lindberg asked us to drive you back.We'll depart in an hour.Is that agreeable to you?" It was Sean's voice.

At that, Francesca had no choice but to respond to him first.

"Go back? My injury hasn't healed yet, but I'm to go straight back to the castle?"

If I go back to the castle, it'll be difficult if I want to escape again!

"Mr.Lindberg said you're not comfortable staying at the hospital, so he had someone build a clinic in the castle.Dr.Wright will also be moving into the castle with her medical team later"

Sean explained respectfully through the door.

Upon hearing that, Francesca felt a touch perturbed.It turned out that Danrique made so many arrangements for me quietly.

With me leaving now, he'll definitely fly into a rage, no?

"If you want to leave later, that's fine as well.You have the final say" Sean added.

All of a sudden, Francesca hesitated and was no longer as decisive as before.

Clocking her expression, Layla whispered, "Why don’t you reconsider it? I can tell that he cares about you quite a bit."

"The more he cares about me, the more I've got to distance myself.”

Francesca swiftly steeled her resolve.She clutched the rope tightly, deciding to still jump.

Just then, Layla's watch started vibrating.She instantly answered the call.

On the other end of the phone, Anthony shouted anxiously, "Crap! Ms.Layla, I've been-"

Before he had finished speaking, a screeching sound drifted out of the watch.

On the heels of that, the line was cut off.

Aware that things had gone awry, Layla hastily yanked Francesca back.

The moment Francesca had her feet on the ground, she urgently instructed before she was even steady on her feet, "Hurry up and remove the communication device! Quick!"

Layla responded very quickly, stripping the watch at once and tossing it into the toilet bowl in the washroom before flushing it away.

At the same time, a series of frantic knocking rang out outside the ward.

"I'm coming in, Ms.Felch!"

Right after that, Sean smashed the door and barged in.

Knocked to the ground, Kerrie gasped in pain as she clutched her forehead.

Meanwhile, Francesca had already shut the window as fast as she could.She collapsed onto the bed and pretended as though nothing had ever happened.

Sean swept his gaze over Francesca at lightning speed, his pupils constricting a fraction when he noticed that she had put on her jacket.

Then, his gaze drifted over to the window and Kerrie on the ground before stilling in the washroom. Hmm, there's sound from in there...

With his eyes narrowed into slits dangerously, he strode toward the washroom

At that exact moment, Layla came out of the washroom in a nurse's outfit, looking all calm and unruffled.

That aside, she was even holding a mop in her hand.

"Everything is done” she reported in fluent Erihalean.

"Who are you?"

Sean eyed her warily.

"I'm the new medical staff? Layla replied.

"A medical staff?"

Sean's gaze was colored with suspicion and scrutiny.

"W-What's wrong? Did I do something wrong?"

Layla wore an apprehensive expression.

"It was me who told her to clean the washroom.Is something the problem?" Francesca spoke out of the blue.

"No, I'm just worried about your safety, Ms.Felch,” Sean answered respectfully before turning to Kerrie.

"Were you in the room all along?"

"Yes, Mr.Lowe." Kerrie had already returned to normal by then.

Chapter 1935

"Did anything happen?"

Sean continued asking.

"No.I've been keeping Ms.Felch company all along.Sometime later, there was a series of knocks outside.l was about to open the door when you knocked me to the ground.”

Kerrie had a lost expression on her face.

Hearing that, Sean finally dispelled his worry.He didn't only transfer Kerrie back to take care of Francesca but also to keep an eye on her.

After all, she was exceedingly important to Danrique.

If she were to make a run for it again like yesterday and cause a series of kidnappings, things would be troublesome.

"I'm glad everything is fine!"

Sean bowed at Francesca before continuing, "In that case, please excuse me.Rest for a bit, Dr.Felch.I'll have someone come over to help you change."

While saying that, he left the ward.

Layla breathed a sigh of relief before exchanging a look with Francesca.

Francesca frowned, feeling a tad resentful.

"I'll help you change, Ms.Felch."

Kerrie came over to help Francesca change.

Meanwhile, Layla acted as though she was leaving, but her eyes remained fixated on Francesca. Left with no other choice, Francesca could only put ona show and fib, "Madam, you do a good job cleaning.Why don't you stay back and take care of me?"

In response, Layla rolled her eyes.

Good Lord! She can't even lie! Is there anyone who would ask someone to stay and take care of her because the person does a good job cleaning? She should've at least used a better excuse!

"There are already many maids in the house, Ms.Felch.Besides, Mr.Lindberg doesn't like to employ strangers.For that reason, every employee needs to undergo multiple rounds of screening”

Kerrie reminded softly.

"So what? I just want to employ her!"

Francesca feigned a chagrined expression.

"Yes, of course.”

Kerrie naturally didn't dare to comment further.

"It's fine as long as you're happy!"

Just then, a rich and sonorous voice split the air.

Francesca looked up, only te be greeted by the sight of Danrique.He probably came over just after his morning meeting at the office, for he was still wearing a crisp white suit.

"How handsome!"

Layla promptly fell into a trance with stars in her eyes.Her previously fevered determination to save Francesca from doom was nowhere to be seen.

Instead, she was gripped by the desire to marry off the latter to the man right then and there. "Why are you here?"

Francesca scrutinized Danrique.lt's just ten o'clock now, and he has just left this morning. Considering the journey, he likely didn't even stay in the office for an hour, huh?

"To bring you home!"

Stepping forward, Danrique draped his jacket over her before scooping her up and striding out. "Mr.Lindberg, everything is ready!"

Sean reported as he hastened over.

"Got it" Danrique replied placidly.

Then, he added, "Bring that elderly woman along”

"Huh?"

Sean was wholly taken aback.

What's happening here? Mr.Lindberg never takes in anyone whose identity is unknown.Why does he suddenly want to bring this peculiar medical staff back?

"Ms.Felch specifically asked for her"

Kerrie murmured before quickly chasing after the couple.

At once, Sean's brows furrowed, and realization dawned upon him.

There must be something off about this medical staff! However, since Danrique had spoken, he didn't dare ask any questions.He could only order his subordinates to bring Layla back to the castle as well.

Layla swiftly trotted over and clarified solemnly, "Handsome, I'm only sixty-three years old, so I'm not all that old.Can you please don't refer to me as an elderly woman?"

Following that, silence ensued.

Sean was utterly dumbstruck, but still, he politely replied, "Sure, madam!”

"Heh! This is much better!"

Over the moon, Layla followed behind Sloan and headed to the castle with all the enthusiasm in the world.She was really curious to know what exactly the castle of such a handsome prince looked like. When Danrique stuffed Francesca into the car, she caught sight of a familiar figure.

Anthony had been caught, all tied up with his mouth taped shut.

Right then, someone hoisted him up and tossed him into the trunk.He probably took a beating, for bruises marred his face.

There was even blood staining the corners of his mouth.

Verily, he appeared pathetic and pitiful.

"Uh, what's going on there?"

"Your ex-boyfriend wanted to save you, but he was caught by my men.How delusional!"

Danrique sneered derisively.

 

Chapter 1936

Words eluded Francesca.She had long since known that Danrique was a formidable opponent. Although Layla managed to sneak in, and Anthony backed them up outside, she still couldn't escape the fate of being caught.

Argh! This is bad, with everyone having been made! Anthony has been detained, and even Ms.Layla is now being brought back to the castle.

It'll be practically impossible for me to do a runner in the future! Oh well! Could it be that this is my destiny? But then, Ms.Layla is still fine.

On the other hand, things aren't looking too good for Anthony.

At that thought, Francesca hastily urged, "Hurry up and let him go!"

"Why are you feeling anguished on his behalf? Is such a piece of trash worthy of your regard?" Danrique frowned in displeasure.

"I just don't want to drag him into the mess.He had good intentions and didn't cause any harm, so hurry up and let him go.”

Truth be told, Francesca was worried that Anthony would die at the man’s hands.

"I can do that, but only after we get married”

Danrique’s tone was extremely firm, with no room for negotiation.

"He's no more than an irrelevant person!"

Panicked, Francesca threatened, "So, are you releasing him? If not, don't even think of getting married!"

Alas, Danrique wasn't intimidated at all.

Instead, he scoffed, "You don't want to get married? Then, I'll cut off his fingers, one at a day.When all his fingers are severed, I'll move on to his hand before proceeding with his legs.All this will continue until you agree to marry me!"

"How dare you?"

Francesca instantly blew her top.

"You can try me.You're my woman, so I naturally won't lift a hand against you.As for those around you, however, I can make any promises.”

Danrique merely smirked.His voice was mild, but it carried a bone-deep chill

As Francesca stared into his cold eyes, she knew that he was indeed capable of doing so.

Thus, she faltered slightly.It looks like I can't go head to head with him.

Instead, I'll have to employ a strategy of some sort.

"Oh yes, Norah informed me that you hadn't much appetite this morning? I hired eight Zarain chefs for the eight major cuisines in Zarain.Each chef brought six assistants with them.All of them went through multiple rounds of assessment, so their cooking skills are superb.You can order whatever you want when we arrive home!"

Danrique then changed the subject to ease the atmosphere.

Hearing that, Francesca was rendered speechless.

"Can I eat that much when I've only got one mouth? Yet, you actually hired chefs for all eight major cuisines? Did you think you were gathering the Seven Dragon Balls?"

"What's that?"

Danrique didn't understand the meaning of Seven Dragon Balls.

"Danrique, you don't need to be so good to me."

Francesca was at an utter loss for words.

At the same time, she was also rather helpless.The more meticulous care he showed her, the greater her pressure.

"You're my woman, so I want to be good to you"

Danrique countered matter-of-factly, looking all serious.

At that, Francesca didn't know how else she should refute that.

"Do you like the Seven Dragon Balls?"

Danrique inquired further.

"Huh?"

Francesca was still in a daze then.

Danrique picked up his phone right away and made a call to Gordon.

"Find me the Seven Dragon Balls immediately!"

"Understood!"

After hanging up the phone, Danrique turned to Francesca, only to see that she was gaping at him with astonishment written all over her face.

"I'll give you whatever you want.When we arrive home, rest and recuperate well.I've already found a doctor who can perform the operation on you and sent my men to seek him out!"

Danrique pinched her cheek, his movements tender and loving.

"Who is that?"

Francesca was very surprised.

There's actually some miracle doctor in this world unbeknownst to me?

"He also has the family name of Felch and is a veteran in traditional medicine.Rumor has it that his medical skills are stellar, and he can also perform surgery.However, he lives in seclusion.I've already sent people to seek him out.”

Danrique made it sound simple, but Francesca still managed to discern the identity of the person he was referring to.

Whoa! He actually managed to find my master! In that case, he must have expended tremendous effort.

Otherwise, he couldn't have possibly managed to determine his whereabouts.

"What's wrong? Don't worry. mobilized all my resources, so we'll definitely be able to find him in the shortest time" Danrique consoled gently upon clocking her thoughtful look.

 

Chapter 1937

As Francesca stared at Danrique's handsome countenance, she gradually perceived a problem.

In the past, she assumed that he was just like an iceberg, indifferent to matters of the heart. Besides, she even felt that he merely had some fighting skills but wasn't much of a strategist.

But from the look of things then, that wasn't the case.

Behind his seemingly nonchalant attitude, everything was actually in the palm of his hands.

Take the past, for instance.

It was clear as day that there were plenty of contradictory things about her, but he never investigated or interrogated her.

In fact, he didn't even look at her documents.

Later, he still remained unfazed despite having discovered her identity.

All that continued until she gave away the game herself and exposed her identity.

And at present, he caught Anthony effortlessly and used the latter to threaten her.She suddenly realized that she was already entirely in his control.

Hmm, this man is truly unfathomable.It feels that I might not be his match, so I've got to escape this quicksand as soon as possible.

Wait a moment! Could it be that he's also aware of Ms.

Layla's identity? That thought flashed across her mind, and she couldn't help the panic rising within her.

While her mind wandered, the car drove into the castle.

Pointing at the snowy scenery outside the car window, Danrique said to her, "This place of mine is vast.After we get married in the future, you can bring your family over to live here.It's fine whether you want to give them a castle or live together as long as you're happy.”

Francesca gazed out the car window, but she wasn't in the mood to admire all the castles.

Instead, her attention was riveted on the jeep convoys and professional bodyguards who could be mobilized anytime.

There were over a hundred bodyguards in such a huge castle, with Danrique being their only master.

Everyone's attention was on the man, while the latter's attention was wholly on Francesca.

Out of the blue, realization dawned upon Francesca that Danrique’s every single word contained an implicit meaning.

Oh, God! He's clearly telling me this: Look, this place is heavily guarded and you want to make a break for it? It'll be practically impossible! In the past, she thought that his thinking was as simple as hers, but only then did she realize that she was the one who was truly simple-minded. Subsequently, the convoy came to a stop in front of the gates of Danrique Castle.

Danrique alighted from the car first before he circled over and carried Francesca.

Francesca then spotted a bodyguard hoisting Anthony up before heading to the animal training ground.

Struggling relentlessly, Anthony made muffled sounds, his gaze teeming with horror.He was afraid that he would be tossed to the tigers.

"What are you planning to do to him?"

Francesca hastily asked Danrique.

"Don’t worry.I'm merely locking him up.l won't have him die since he still has some use right now" Danrique answered evenly.

"How dare..."

Francesca almost declared war against him in her impulsiveness, but Layla threw her a look, so she could only suppress her wrath for the time being.

"You're home, Mr.Lindberg, Ms.Cece! I just brewed some soup, so it's perfect for you, Ms.Cece!" Norah came out and greeted them enthusiastically.

"That's good.It so happens that I'm hungry as well.”

Danrique carried Francesca upstairs to her room and placed her on the bed.

After doing so, he conveniently lay down beside her.

"What are you doing?"

Francesca promptly inched to the side.

"Hah! Don't forget that you were the one who took the initiative to climb into my bed in the past and tried to approach me in various ways!"

Amusement inundated Danrique at her wariness.

"I didn't-"

Before Francesca had finished speaking, Danrique bit her lip.His kiss was bumbling and unskilled. It was no different from a beast gnawing on its prey, carrying a hint of aggression.

Francesca wanted to push him away, but her hands lacked strength, and she couldn't budge him in the least.

Strangely enough, every time he kissed her, her body tingled.Her entire body would go limp, and her brain would stop functioning.

Shortly put, she would melt underneath him like ice cream.

Danrique’s kiss went increasingly deeper.

Turning sideways, he pinned her down.

His hand traveled upward from her waist until they came into contact with her ample bosom, upon which he couldn't resist applying force.

“Mmph!"

Francesca's eyes abruptly sprang open, and she bit him hard.

Danrique instinctively pulled away when he sensed blood pervading his mouth, bringing along an intense coppery taste.He licked his lips, feeling a tad unsatisfied.

Nonetheless, he still backed off.

 

Chapter 1938

Getting to his feet, Danrique straightened his clothes, his movements as elegant as ever. However, the words he then casually uttered carried a beast-like possessiveness.

"I'm going to devour you when you've recovered!"

His Adam's apple bobbed slightly with suppressed desire.

"Buzz off"

Francesca roared furiously.

Pulling the covers over her, Danrique flashed her a faint smile before spinning on his heels and leaving.

Just then, Layla disguised as medical staff, entered the room with Norah to deliver the soup. Danrique glanced at her but said nothing, heading straight for the study room.

Later, Sean went to Danrique to render his report.

In the end, he cautiously reminded, "Mr.Lindberg, I can't shake off the feeling that there's something strange about that medical staff"

In response, Danrique arched a brow.

"Oh? What about her?"

"When I went to look for Ms.Felch this morning..."

Sean proceeded to tell the man everything that had happened in the hospital in detail.

After listening to it all, Danrique remarked blithely, "Didn't Kerrie say that nothing happened?" "Yes, but-"

"Cece asked for her personally, so what if there's something off about her? It doesn't matter as long as Cece is happy"

Danrique’s voice was detached.

"But that elderly woman might not be an ordinary person"

By then, Danrique frowned, a touch impatient.

"So what? Why am I employing the lot of you? Is it not to resolve problems? What use are you if you can't even handle an elderly woman?"

“Understood.”

Sean hurriedly lowered his head, not daring to speak further.He knew full well that Layla and the unfortunate ex- boyfriend were probably in cahoots with Francesca.

Initially, he wanted to caution Danrique, but he ended up being lectured by the man instead. Danrique went out again after lunch.

Before leaving, he said to Sean, "Leave a few smart ones to keep guard at the castle.” “Understood.”

Sean immediately made the arrangements

Naturally, he knew that his employer didn't want Francesca to escape.

Right then, Sloan delivered Francesca's bag to her room.

Francesca quickly dismissed everyone else and made up an excuse to have Layla stay.

The instant Layla opened Francesca's bag and beheld the gems inside, her eyes glittered with excitement.

"Whoa! He's really generous and treats you amazingly well! Most importantly, he's even so handsome! You should just yield, Francesca!"

"What are you saying, Ms.Layla? Are you not worried at all when Anthony has been captured?” Francesca was sprawled on the bed with helplessness etched across her features.

Contrarily, Layla wore an expression of disdain.

"Why should I be worried? Danrique won't kill him.At most, he'll keep him locked up to blackmail you.Furthermore, he's dumb, so he can't grow without being taught a lesson.”

"But I don't want to stay here.”

Casting her eyes around the luxurious yet cold room, Francesca couldn't help lamenting, "It's as though I'm a bird ina gilded cage with no freedom to speak of."

Likewise, Layla echoed, "Well, that's true.lt's cold without a shred of warmth."

"I want to go home.l miss the children.Also, I wonder what has become of the pets I keep.” Francesca cradled her forehead with a troubled look on her face.

"You call them pets when they're composed of an eagle, wolf, and leopard?" Layla teased.

In response, Francesca rolled her eyes.

"They're incredibly adorable! Anyway, I want to leave!"

"Don't worry, for with me here, I'll get you out for sure! Be good, take your meals properly, and recuperate well. When the right time comes, I'll definitely figure out a way!"

Layla coaxed.

"How are you going to do that when our communication device is gone? Besides, Anthony is in their hands.”

Francesca's brows were creased deeply.

"Hey, have you forgotten my former profession? I was a special forces agent for M Nation.I've experienced all kinds of situations!"

Layla quirked a brow at her with all the smugness in the world.

"That's true.”

A wealth of relief suffused Francesca.

"But Francesca, you still have to learn to refine and use poison.lt's not to harm others but to save yourself at the critical moment.”

 

Chapter 1939

Layla continued earnestly, “I know you're benevolent as a doctor and are reluctant to refine poison.But consider this—poison and antidote are both tools.At times, an antidote can be used to harm others, and in the same manner, poison can be used to save lives!"

"Okay, I got it"

Francesca replied blasely without saying anything further.She still remembered her master's teaching that their mission as doctors was to save lives

As such, they couldn't refine poison.

For that reason, she didn't practice any other skills apart from summoning beasts and driving skills throughout the years.

Layla used to be a special forces agent, so she had long since urged Francesca to refine some poison for self-defense by combining medicine with chemistry, but the latter had never agreed "Oh well, you've always been so stubborn.”

Knowing that Francesca was reluctant to do so, she didn't continue persuading her.

Instead, she changed the subject.

"Rest for a bit.I'll go and check out the situation and get a feel of the grounds."

"Don’t wander around, Ms.Layla! Anthony has already been seized, so it'll be worse if they also see through you and lock you up!"

Francesca hastily objected.

Chortling, Layla countered, "Haha, what a silly girl! Do you really think that block of ice doesn't know that there's something off about me?"

"Huh?"

Francesca was entirely dumbfounded.

"Battle-hardened people like them are all shrewd, and their eyes are penetrating.”

Sneering, Layla continued, "They likely knew long ago that I'm in cahoots with you.Otherwise, such a coincidence isn't quite plausible. Anthony was caught, and you brought me home when you didn't even know my background?"

"They are aware? Then, why didn't Danrique say anything?" Francesca questioned urgently.

A knowing smile bloomed on Layla's face.

"Probably because he's sufficiently conceited.He thinks that I can’t do any damage, albeit there's something fishy about me.He has a lot of men working for him, so why would he be afraid of an elderly lady like me?"

"That's indeed him to a tee."

Realization dawned upon Francesca.

"You're very smart and take everything into consideration.Nothing can escape your eyes.However, you're simple-minded and disinclined toward scheming."

Patting her on the back of her hand, Layla continued, "Just continue being an innocent girl.I'll protect you!"

"Thank you, Ms.Layla!"

Francesca was very much grateful

"All right, hurry up and rest.I'm going to check things out.”

After leaving some instructions, Layla left in a hurry.

Francesca lay on the bed to rest, but Layla's words earlier lingered in her mind, and she brooded over them.

In truth, considering her understanding of medication, it would be a piece of cake if she wanted to develop some poison for self-defense

However, she kept her master's teachings in mind, so she didn't do so all these years.

But then, the circumstances are unique now, so perhaps I can really use it if there's such a need. Norah arranged a single guestroom for Layla.

The maids were all surprised, baffled as to why the new medical staff was given special treatment. To that, Norah's response was that Layla was the only medical staff Francesca appointed personally. Hence, special arrangements were made for her.

Hearing that, the maids didn't dare have any further objections.

After all, Francesca currently wielded all the power in the castle.

As Layla enjoyed special treatment in the castle, it was all the more convenient for her to move around freely.

Using various excuses, she started roaming the castle.

In a single day, she familiarized herself with the passages in Danrique Castle.

In the next few days, Francesca recuperated at home.

All she did was eat and sleep every day.

Helen came to check on her three times daily, but she could only help doctor the wound and stabilize her condition.

The rest would have to wait until the miracle doctor came and performed the operation. Danrique, on the other hand, went out early and came home late.

When he left in the mornings, Francesca would still be sleeping.

Thus, he would gaze at her quietly at the side of her bed and peck her on the forehead before leaving.

And when he came home at night, she would be asleep.

He would stealthily lay down sideways beside her and look at her quietly with his head propped against a hand.

Then, he would furtively kiss her until she woke up.In fact, he was just like a naughty boy who got his way.

 

Chapter 1940

For the first three days, Francesca would censure Danrique in a groggy voice and shove him away furiously.

Later, she merely frowned when she saw him upon opening her eyes.

When a week had passed, she could tell that he was home the instant she got a whiff of his smell. She neither pushed him away nor reproached him, merely continued sleeping with the pillow in her arms and allowed him free rein to nuzzle against her neck gently.

When her senses tingled, she would then bury her head into the pillow shyly.

Their relationship grew increasingly closer although they didn't take things further.

Nonetheless, Francesca was no longer averse to Danrique's intimacy.

To Danrique, that was wonderful progress.He felt that she would agree to marry him if things continued developing in that direction.

Nevertheless, her operation took precedence at present.

Everything else came after curing her.

Alas, he was still searching for the rumored Dr.Felch in Zarain.

To that very day, there weren't any useful leads.

One day, Sean abruptly queried on a whim, "Ms.Felch, that doctor also has the family name of Fletch.Is there a possibility that the two of you...are acquainted?”

"Nope!" Francesca replied resolutely.

She didn't want to meet the man there.

Conversely, she wanted to leave that place and figure out a way to cure herself.

Recently, she developed a new treatment regimen that might be effective.

"Never mind, then."

Sean dispelled his suspicion, feeling that she probably wouldn't lie if she were acquainted with Dr.Felch.

After all, no one wanted to die.

Anyhow, Francesca had started using some medication directly nowadays, so her external injury recovered at a rapid pace.

By then, she could basically move freely like the average person.

The only thing was that the metal shards in her brain still existed like a ticking time bomb. Therefore, an operation was vital.

Helen had been reminding Danrique to make haste and locate Dr.Felch as soon as possible, but they were still helpless then.

On that particular night, Francesca started having a headache again.

Utterly distressed at the sight of her agonized expression, Danrique instantly decided to head to Zarain personally to search for Dr.Felch.

The moment Francesca heard that, she proposed to go with him at once.

As long as I return to Zarain, I can escape! Otherwise, even Spiderman himself wouldn't be able to get out of here despite his capabilities! That was the conclusion Layla drew after exploring for a week.

"You've still got a brain injury, so it won't be good for you to travel so far."

Danrique eyed Francesca in concern.

"What's the problem with doing so? I'm no fragile glass and can move around freely! Furthermore, my condition doesn't permit any further delays.I've got to undergo an operation as soon as possible!"

Francesca promptly riposted.If we find Dr.Felch in Zarain and can arrange for an operation right away, that would save a lot of time.

Following that thought, Danrique nodded.

"That makes sense.But then, I've got to think upon it."

At that, Francesca panicked.

"What else do you need to think about? There's nothing to consider when it's such a simple concept!"

"I've made arrangements for a private jet tomorrow afternoon.If your performance is good tonight, I'll bring you along.”

Danrique was very casual when he said that, but his words contained a hidden meaning.

Right after saying that, he walked away.

"Huh? What performance?”

Francesca inquired, swiftly chasing after him.

"Think about it yourself."

Leaving those four words in his wake, Danrique strode out of the room on his long legs.

"Hey! Hey!"

Francesca hollered at him twice, but he left without a backward glance.

At that turn of events, she was so livid that she almost burst a blood vessel.

"What a lunatic to leave in the middle of a conversation!"

"That's known as playing hard to get.You're too naive.”

Layla had a knowing look on her face.

Upon hearing that, Francesca hurriedly tugged at her and asked for guidance.

"What do you mean? What does he want?"

"Needless to say, he wants that..."

Then, Layla scrutinized her, asking, "Girl, is your virginity still intact?"

"Huh? Of course, it's intact!"

Francesca flushed bright red in a flash.