Ch. 1941..1950

Chapter 1941

"I noticed that he has been visiting your room every night, and you never once objected.l thought that the two of you have already done it."

Chuckling, Layla elucidated, "Since your virginity is still intact, it's clear as day that he wants that.” "How shameless, despicable, and reprehensible of him!"

Francesca gritted her teeth and cursed Danrique out, flying off her handle. What a vile b*stard! How dare he use such a thing to blackmail me?

"What's there to be mad about?"

Tugging at her, Layla lectured in a low voice, "Let me tell you that when it comes to dealing with men, you've got tame them with love.”

"W-What?"

Francesca couldn't quite understand that.

"Listen as I teach you slowly.”

Layla closed the room door and sat cross-legged on the sofa before she started educating Francesca solemnly.

Outside, Danrique had no sooner reached the study room than Gordon came and reported, "Mr.Lindberg, the private jet for tomorrow has been arranged. However, Mr.Adams’ assistant just called and said there's a banquet tonight.He insisted upon your attendance!"

Just after he had finished saying that, a knock sounded from outside, and a subordinate reported, "Mr.Lindberg, Donald's car is now outside the castle”

Danrique frowned, knowing that the man came for no other reason than that matter.

A few days ago, Frank went to Lindberg Corporation to conduct an inspection, but Danrique didn't go over.

Later, Frank took a fancy to Hazel.

Logically speaking, it was a considerable threat to Danrique, and he should take the initiative to contact Frank.

However, he didn't do so.

Right then, Frank hosted a banquet and even specifically requested Danrique's presence.

If he didn't show up again, that would mean that he wanted to go against the man directly.

The significance of that was great.

Thus, Donald probably knew something about it and promptly came over to advise Danrique. "That old geezer is really irritating.”

A touch annoyed, Danrique lifted his hand and glanced at his watch.

It's already four o'clock in the afternoon now.

Could it be that Mr.Adams is aware that I'm going to Zarain, so he hosted a banquet out of the blue to settle everything before I leave?

"Should I allow him entry?”

Sean queried softly.

Danrique made a gesture, upon which Sean quickly ordered, "Invite Mr.Donald in."

"Understood."

Mere moments after Danrique allowed Donald entry, the three prominent families phoned him one after another.

They all said the same thing, convinced that there must be something explosive that Frank suddenly invited them to a banquet and insisted that Danrique consider the bigger picture by attending the banquet.

Danrique was irked to hear that, but he also knew that he really had to go this time.

After hanging up the phone, he turned his gaze to the gold invitation Frank had someone deliver over.

It read: Please attend with a female companion, Mr.Lindberg.

Attend with a female companion...

The corners of Danrique's mouth lifted, and he instantly instructed, "Go and make the necessary arrangements.I want to bring Cece along.”

"What?"

Shocked, Sean hastily warned, "You've got to think twice, Mr.Lindberg! It's evident that Frank's purpose in hosting a banquet this time is to feel you out.Your best choice is to attend with Ms.Atkinson.That can prevent a ton of troubles.If you really don't want to do so, it's also good for you to make an appearance alone But if you bring Ms.Felch along at this time, that would make it clear-"

"That would make it clear that I won't marry Hazel."

Finishing the man’s utterance on his behalf, Danrique declared bluntly, "If Mr.Adams wants to marry her, he's free to do so.lt has nothing to do with me.”

Sean was so anxious that he had broken out in a cold sweat.

"But consequently, Mr.Adams can then openly win over the three prominent families.Our foundation isn't firm now, so you shouldn't act rashly-"

"That's enough.”

Cutting off the man's words, Danrique ordered firmly, "Do as I ordered.”

"Mr.Lindberg-"

"Gol"

Danrique’s brows knitted together, for he was already rather chagrined.

Sean didn't dare protest further, so he could only relent and execute his orders.

Meanwhile, Donald hurriedly entered the castle downstairs with Hazel behind him.

As soon as the two of them came in, they demanded frantically, "Where's Mr.Lindberg?"

"He's in his study room on the second floor."

Chapter 1942

Donald rushed up the stairs, but behind him, Hazel halted in her tracks.She overheard Norah ordering the maids to prepare the evening gowns and the stylists to dress Francesca up. Something occurred to her, and her expression changed drastically.She seemed flustered.

"Ms Atkinson!"

Suddenly, Sean's voice cut her thoughts short.She came back around and schooled her expression into a calm one before meeting Sean's gaze.

“Yes, Sean?"

"Mr.Lindberg is waiting for you in the study room.This way, please.”

Sean gestured for Donald and Hazel to follow him upstairs.They walked past Francesca's room.The maids were showing Francesca the evening gowns, and she seemed shocked.

"What's going on? Why do I have to pick one?" she asked.

"You'll be Mr.Lindberg’s partner for the banquet tonight"

Hearing that, Hazel froze momentarily.

Surprised, Donald demanded, "What's going on? Is Mr.Lindberg bringing her to Mr.Adams’ banquet?”

"Well..."

Sean seemed stumped.

Instead of answering the question, he knocked on the door of the study room and pushed it open. "This way, please.”

"Mr.Donald, I believe you need to talk to Mr.Lindberg in private.”

Hazel suddenly spoke up.

"I'll leave you to it and come back when you're done.”

Donald glanced at her and immediately put two and two together.

"Yes, that's right. shall talk to Danrique in private.”

"Sure.Come on in"

Before Sean led Donald into the study, he asked a maid to bring Hazel to a guest room.

However, Hazel went to Francesca's room without hesitation and knocked on the door.

"Can I come in?"

Francesca recognized Hazel's voice instantly, for the latter was always calm and elegant.

"Please come in!"

Francesca was lounging on the sofa, sipping on her drink lazily.

The maids were displaying a bunch of lavish evening gowns before her.

Hazel took one look at the dresses before turning to Francesca.

A conflicted look flashed across her eyes and disappeared quickly.

Flashing a warm smile, she said, "Long time no see, Ms.Cece.l heard you were injured.How are you feeling?”

"I'm doing well.”

Francesca smiled at her.

"Have a seat."

"Thank you."

Hazel occupied the sofa across from her.

The maid served her coffee and left them to their own devices.

"Why? Do you have something to say?"

Francesca hated it when people tried to beat around the bush.

"The evening gowns are gorgeous.”

Hazel glanced at the dozens of evening gowns hanging on the rack.

Jealousy overwhelmed her heart when she realized they were all custom-made.

"I've been wanting to preorder them, but Mr.Lindberg reserved them for you before I could do so." "They're just clothes.Do you like them? Feel free to choose and take anything you like"

Francesca replied nonchalantly.Her nonchalance merely served to increase Hazel's fury.Fortunately, Hazel was trained since young to keep her emotions in check.

Otherwise, she would've jolted up from her seat furiously.

"Mr.Lindberg had these made for you specially.l don't think you should give them to others easily" Hazel responded gently.

However, her gaze was penetrating and oppressing.

"He gave these to me, so they are now mine.l have the right to toss them away if I want to." Francesca despised schemes, but that didn't mean she would allow someone else to bully her. Hazel's hostility was evident, but Francesca was no pushover.

"Hat"

Hazel let out a low chuckle.She took a sip of her coffee to conceal her anger.

After composing herself, she flashed a smile.

"Is Mr.Lindberg bringing you to tonight's banquet?"

"I guess so.That was what they told me”

Francesca responded indifferently as she sipped on her tea.She acted as though the matter was of no importance to her.

"Do you know what the banquet is about?"

Hazel glared at her.

"What is it about?"

Francesca was wiping her lips with a napkin lazily.

"The banquet is held by Mr.Adams"

Hazel revealed solemnly.

"It concerns the future of Lindberg Corporation and the four great families! It will also determine Mr.Lindberg's power and influence!"

Chapter 1943

"Oh? Is it that important?"

Francesca nodded, but she didn't seem to understand it.

"Yes, it's extremely important.”

Despite her smile, Hazel was stern.

"If the banquet falls through, Mr.Adams will most probably rope the three families to go against Mr.Lindberg!"

"That sounds complicated”

Francesca raised her brows.

"Do you mean that the banquet will fall through if I show up?”

"Yes," Hazel's answer was firm.

"Lindberg Corporation has no choice but to collaborate with the four great families. That way, we can be a community of interests.Among the four great families, my family is the only family with a daughter.Thus, my relationship with Mr.Lindberg is important-"

"Oh?"

Francesca seemed confused.

"S02"

Hazel froze.

Did I not make myself clear enough? Is she really confused, or is she putting up an act?

"Oh, I got it."

Francesca pondered briefly before stating solemnly, "You're saying that I'll affect Danrique’s future if I stay by his side? And that it will be better if you're his partner?"

"I'm glad you understand-"

"But you shouldn't be telling me that; Francesca interjected with a stumped expression.

"He refuses to let me leave, and I'm pretty frustrated, too.You should tell him to release me for the sake of his family's interests.”

After a pause, she added, "I think I told you this when we first met.”

"There's no need to remind me of that."

Despite her anger, Hazel remained graceful.

"I can't stop Mr.Lindberg, but you can make a smart decision"

"I don't know what you're talking about.”

Francesca furrowed her brows as though she was confused.

"If Mr.Adams enters a marriage of convenience with the Atkinson family, it would spell trouble for the Lindberg family and Mr.Lindberg”

Hazel snapped impatiently.

"I've made myself clear.If you love Mr.Lindberg, you should be considerate.If you don't love him, then leave him as soon as possible so you won't be dragged into this mess.”

"If you're that important, then why don't you make the decision yourself?"

Francesca shot her an amused grin.

"Your marriage is important, and you are considerate to Danrique.Why don't you marry him yourself? Why bother telling me all those nonsense?"

"Hey!"

Hazel fumed, but she couldn't find any words to retort.

"Oh, you came to persuade me to leave because Danrique refused to marry you, huh?"

Tiny, almost imperceptible crinkles formed around Francesca's eyes.

"That doesn't sound right.You're an eligible bachelorette and can help him secure his position.Why did he refuse to marry you?"

Breathless with anger, Hazel couldn't do anything as the color drained from her face.

"Ah, forget it. That's too complicated for me to understand.”

Francesca yawned lazily.

"It doesn't concern me, anyway.Instead of coming to me, you should go to Danrique.I'm going to bed now and won't see you out.”

Heaving in fury, Hazel spun on her heels and strode away.

Inside the study room, Danrique listened to Donald's nags before saying calmly, "I'll attend the banquet, but there's no need for Hazel to be my partner.I'll bring Cece with me"

"You..."

Donald was almost choking on his rage.

"Are you doing this on purpose? You know what the consequences will be. Why are you still-" "Uncle Donald"

Danrique cut in coolly.

"Don't worry.l won't let someone else take over Lindberg Corporation or let anything happen to the Lindberg family.You should stay out of my business."

“But-"

Before Donald could say anything else, someone knocked on the door.Sean then led Hazel into the study room.

Hazel took one look at Donald's expression and sensed the tension in the air.She promptly realized that the discussion didn't go well.Her gaze dimmed, but she swiftly pulled herself together and flashed a smile.

"Since Mr.Lindberg has already made up his mind, we should respect his decision”

 

Chapter 1944

"Huh?"

Donald blurted out.He thought he was hearing things and stared at Hazel incredulously.

"Hazel is a sensible woman" Danrique said as he smirked.

"You should go back home and prepare for tonight"

"Yes."

Hazel bobbed her head cheerfully before turning to leave.She didn't utter a word to persuade Danrique to change his mind despite coming to a consensus with Donald earlier.

Shocked, Donald watched as Hazel strode away.He had no idea what was going on.

Is she trying to make me the bad guy? Did she pull out last minute so she could be the nice guy? Or does she have another plan? Or did Danrique’s action break her heart, and she decided to give up on him? Donald couldn't wrap his head around it.He could never understand how the mind of a woman worked, for they were always so unpredictable.

"Mr.Donald, should I see you off?" Sean broke the silence duly.

Donald heaved out a sigh before trudging out after him.

Halfway down the stairs, he couldn't stop himself from asking, "Sean, what do you and Gordon think about this matter?"

"Mr.Donald, you've got to be kidding.We're Mr.Lindberg's subordinates.We can't comment on the matter" Sean replied humbly.

"You can drop the formalities before me" Donald said hastily.

"Isabella trained you both, and you're a few years older than Danrique.As you're more mature, you can see the big picture and make decisions for the greater good.We're one family, so just speak your mind."

"All right, I shall be frank with you.”

Sean's lips curled up slightly as he said, "Of course, we want nothing but the best for Lindberg Corporation.We hope that the Lindberg family can always be in control of Lindberg Corporation.” "That's right.You'll have to talk some sense into-"

"But..."

Sean cut in before Donald could finish.

"We believe in Mr.Lindberg.He has his own reasons for making that decision.We know he isn't a reckless person, so I hope you can trust him, too"

"Uh..."

Sean was rendered speechless.He assumed he could convince Sean to persuade Danrique to change his mind.

Alas, he had failed miserably.

"Forget it"

Shaking his head despondently, Donald got into his vehicle.

"Goodbye, Mr.Donald"

Sean waited for the car to disappear from sight before he turned and entered the house.

Gordon came over to him at once.

"Is Mr.Lindberg going to bring Ms.Cece to the banquet?”

"Yeah," Sean responded with a nod.

"When Ms.Atkinson left earlier, she seemed calm, but her gaze was eerily frosty.”

Gordon was worried.

"If Mr.Adams ends up in a marriage of convenience with the Atkinson family, what should we do?" "l don't know."

Sean flashed a helpless smile.

"But we need to be loyal to Mr.Lindberg.No matter what his decision would be, we'll have to support him.”

"Yes." Gordon nodded profusely.

"Forget it.We don't understand their complicated power struggle, anyway.Mr.Lindberg is free to make his own choices.If he creates trouble, we can clean his mess up.”

"That's right.”

Sean patted his shoulder.

"I'll go to Mr.Lindberg now."

Mm.

Gordon went back to work.

Back in the study room, Danrique was talking on the phone His voice was deep as he said indifferently, "Mm.Looks like I was right.That's great.Good night."

After ending the call, he lifted his head to look at Sean.

"Have they all left?”

RYest:

Sean took one step forward and asked, "Ms.Felch is dolling up.When shall we depart?’

"Six."

Danrique glanced at his watch.

"Did Donald talk to you?"

"He wanted me to advise you, but I shut him up before he could finish’ Sean revealed cheerfully. "I believe he's cursing me in his car right now,”

"You aren't going to persuade me to change my mind?"

Danrique arched a brow.

"I wanted to, but I dared not take action.”

Sean's lips curled up in resignation

"I chatted briefly with Gordon, and we came to a consensus that we don't understand the power struggle.There's no need for us to understand it, anyway.Just like your feelings for Ms.Felch.we agree that you can do anything you like as long as you are happy.If something crops up, we can clean the mess together."

 

Chapter 1945

"Ha!" Danrique snorted.

"You're making it sound like you two are noble beings."

"No, we dare not think that way," Sean explained hastily.

"Enough."

Danrique interrupted him and ordered, "Prepare a gift for me.”

"A gift?"

Sean's interest was piqued.

"Yes."

Danrique pondered over it and added, "The more expensive, the better.lt's for a woman."

"Got it."

Sean left to carry out his order.

When Danrique arrived at Francesca's room, she was lounging on the sofa and playing a game on her tablet.

The make-up artist was putting the finishing touches on her makeup, and the hairstylist was busy getting her hair done.The maids were serving her dinner.

"There will be food served at the banquet hall?"

Danrique remarked as he leaned against the door.His affectionate gaze landed on her.

"The food served at the banquet hall won't be filling at all.”

Francesca didn't even bother to lift her head.

"Besides, I'll have to act elegantly there; so, it's more comfortable to eat at home.”

"Mm.Eat up, then."

Danrique was about to leave when Francesca stopped him.

"Wait a minute,” she called out.

"What is it?"

Danrique halted in his tracks and turned at his shoulder.

"l want to talk to you." Francesca met his gaze.

"Okay!"

Danrique was delighted, for this was the first time she had requested to talk to him.He made a gesture, and Norah immediately told the make-up artist and stylists to leave the room.

When they were both left alone, Francesca asked directly, "Why are you bringing me to the banquet instead of Hazel Atkinson?"

"You're my fiancée, and she's not.”

Danrique rolled his eyes.

"But I heard that the banquet is important and will affect the future of Lindberg Corporation.If I show up, it might bring trouble to you.”

Francesca didn't bother mincing her words.

"Even so, you won't change your mind about me being your partner for the night?"

"Who told you that?"

Danrique raised an eyebrow.

"Hazel?"

"That isn't important,”

Francesca brushed it off.She wasn't someone who liked to tattle on someone else.

"You shouldn't be fretting over that.”

Danrique joined her on the sofa.

"You just have to dress up and stay by my side at all times."

"I don't know the power struggle between the influential families well, but I know you went to Epea to grab a share of the market to increase your influence and prove yourself.It wouldn't be worth it to sacrifice all your previous efforts just because of me,”

Francesca stated solemnly.

That was the first time she ever had a serious conversation with Danrique.She never wanted to affect his future.

Hearing her words, Danrique flashed an alluring smile.He came over to her and sat on the edge of the dressing table.

Pinching her chin, he forced her to look at him.

"Looks like you've fallen in love with me; he remarked.

"Huh?"

Francesca's eyes widened in disbelief.

What was that? I was talking about his company, but why did he suddenly change the topic? "You're being considerate about my reputation because you fell in love with me!" Danrique declared.

He inched nearer and gave her a kiss on the lips.

"No..."

Before Francesca could explain herself, she was interrupted by a knock on the door. "Mr.Lindberg, it's almost time."

"I'll spare you this once.”

Danrique licked his lips, obviously unsatisfied by that swift kiss.

"I'll go get changed.You can come downstairs after you filled your stomach.There’s no need to hurry."

"Okay," Francesca responded.

She watched as he left her room with quick strides.

After he left, Layla showed up with the excuse of delivering some fruit tea to Francesca.

"The banquet is a good chance for us to escape.”

"Seriously?"

Francesca blurted out.

"The banquet is going to be held at the Adams residence.The place should be heavily guarded.How are we going to make our escape?”

"I don't think the Adams residence will be as heavily guarded as this house.Everyone keeps an eye on you here, but it won't be the same there.Besides, the security guards there aren't familiar with you, so it will be pretty easy for us to sneak out.”

 

Chapter 1946

Layla was confident as she added, "You just have to find a way to bring me along with you to the banquet.”

"I don't think there will be any problems with that"

Francesca remarked.

Her gaze dropped before she continued, "But Anthony is still in the castle. What would happen to him if we just leave like this?"

"The person you like doesn't have such a horrible personality, right?"

Layla inquired, a smile on her face.

"I don't think he'd use Anthony to threaten us if he's a decent person.”

Francesca fell silent upon hearing Layla's words.She knew that Danrique would not do so. However, for some unknown reason, she did not feel like carrying out the plan.

"Do you no longer want to leave, Francesca?" Layla asked

She could tell that Francesca was hesitant.

"We could stay, and you could get married to him in peace.”

"No.Francesca shook her head frantically.

"I have to leave.l must leave!" Layla sighed.

"Take your time, Francesca.Make your decision after giving it some serious consideration”

With that, Layla silently went to the side and started tidying up.

Francesca, on the other hand, experienced a flood of conflicting emotions as she sat on the sofa, hugging her knees.

After spending time with Danrique, she acknowledged that she did feel something for him. However, she had too many worries and still had a lot to do.She felt as though she were a bird trapped in a gold cage while she was there.

Therefore, she had to leave.

As time passed, a knock was heard, followed by Norah's voice.

"May I come in, Ms.Cece?"

"Please come in"

Francesca responded.

Norah had brought a maid with her and was ready to clean up.

However, she realized that the food on the table was untouched.

Concerned, she asked, "Are you feeling unwell, Ms.Cece?"

Before Francesca could say anything, Layla had replied in her stead, "she has been experiencing stomach ache today.But fear not; I've already given her some medication,”

"Should we call a doctor?" Norah asked quickly.

"No.It's just a minute problem”

Francesca replied before glancing at Layla.

"You should come with me later, Ms.Layla.And bring along the medicine”

"Very well.I'll get ready for it right now, "Layla answered as she hurriedly returned to the room to prepare.Norah then reported the happenings to Danrique, who had just finished changing and was in the process of putting on his shoes.Meanwhile, Sean stood next to him, holding his jacket.Sean felt something off when he heard Norah telling them about how Francesca had an upset stomach and wanted to bring along the new, elderly medical staff.

Danrique, on the other hand, questioned nothing as he immediately agreed.

As a result, Sean refrained from saying anything else.

He merely instructed Kerrie to accompany them and even arranged for more female bodyguards to be on duty.

The snow had stopped falling when they were out.

However, the snowy blanket that enveloped the ground somehow illuminated the night. Francesca entered the car with her coat wrapped around her, and the image of that was nothing short of adorable.

Danrique nudged the top of her head with his chin as he embraced her close to him

Oddly, he felt content despite no exchange of words.

The sight of Danrique’s larger frame engulfing Francesca's tinier one was endearing.

Francesca no longer resisted Danrique’s affections and was snuggling close to him like a docile kitten.

Meanwhile, Layla could not help but feel mixed emotions as she witnessed the scene.

The journey proceeded in silence.

After a while, the convoy arrived at the presidential palace.

Francesca gazed out the window to assess the situation.

The place was heavily guarded, as anticipated.

However, after experiencing the formidable security of the Lindberg residence, she was unfazed by anything.

Frank's desire to take over Lindberg Corporation was understandable, given that the company itself was quite striking.

After a glance at Layla, Francesca knew that the former had memorized the route and was ready. "What's on your mind? You seem to be in a daze"

Danrique stated as he gently grabbed Francesca's chin to get her to look at him.

"I was wondering whether this banquet tonight was a trap,” Francesca replied, a sense of unease creeping into her heart.

 

Chapter 1947

"What if it is a trap?"

Danrique retorted arrogantly.

"There's nothing in this world that could restrain me.” He spoke in an airy manner.

However, the confidence behind his words did not go unnoticed.

Immediately, Francesca felt more at ease.

Danrique had a point—he was an excellent fighter; it would be difficult to trap him.

On top of that, Erihal was Danrique’s territory.

Even Frank was powerless against him

"You don't have to worry too much.I'm here?"

Danrique said as he ruffled Francesca"s hair and pinched her cheeks, his eyes filled with affection. Francesca was no longer resisting his affection at that point.

Instead, she grew accustomed to it.

However, she remained staring out of the window as there seemed to be something weighing on her mind.

The car finally stopped outside the presidential palace, where members of the three great families were waiting for Danrique by the entrance.

Oliver, the butler of the presidential palace, came forward to open the car door and greeted Danrique respectfully, "Welcome, Mr.Lindberg!"

Danrique got out of the car and nodded in return.

Francesca then got out of the other side of the car.

Oliver was not shocked upon seeing her and instead greeted her with due respect.

He was clearly aware that Danrique intended to bring her along.

Francesca instinctively extended her hand and placed it in Danrique’s as he reached out his hand before following him to welcome the others.

Despite still wearing her favorite sneakers that night, Francesca did not look bad.

Instead, paired with the elegant gown, she somehow looked like an enchanting fairy.

In addition, many people thought she lacked manners and would struggle to adjust to the setting. But to their amazement, she acted with grace.She was confident and natural without losing her charm! Even Sean and Gordon were taken aback by Francesca's poise and began to view her differently.

After entering the castle, Francesca realized that William, too, was present.

Nevertheless, Donald, who was usually the life of the party, was absent.

In a way, it was understandable given that William was still a prince despite his tense relationship with the king.

Therefore, it was only appropriate for Frank to extend an invitation to William to the banquet after learning about the latter's presence in Xendale.

Donald did not deserve a spot at Frank's banquet, even though he was frequently invited to events thrown by the four great families.He could not attend even if he really wanted to.

Thus, he had nervously gone to see Danrique earlier on.

Unfortunately, Danrique ignored him.

Ever since Francesca’s identity had been brought to light, William had left Danrique Castle and went to the other castles without keeping in touch with her.His gaze was all on Francesca as it was a rare opportunity for him to see her.

However, he had no courage to start a conversation.

Francesca, on the other hand, did not hold back as she took the initiative to greet him.

"William!"

"Francesca; William murmured gently, looking at Danrique with unease.However, he was immediately relieved when he noticed that the latter's face showed no traces of displeasure.

"Do you know Ms.Cece, Prince William?"

Harrier finally inquired after a period of silent observation. William said nothing in return. Francesca, on the other hand, was upfront about it.

"Yes, we are acquainted.Do you have a problem with that?"

"No.Not at allIt's an honor to be acquainted with you, Ms.Cece; Harrier explained humorously. "Thank you!"

Francesca exclaimed.She gave his wrist a fleeting glance before averting her gaze and following Danrique inside the castle.

The three great families immediately followed suit, with Robin pushing William along.

Danrique and William exchanged a few words.He even asked the latter if he was used to the climate in Xendale.

It seemed that the two were still good friends.

Francesca scanned the area and caught no sight of Hazel; only her father, Gerard, was there.He was walking alongside Kevin and Harrier.

Is the marriage between Mr.Adams and Hazel actually happening tonight? If so, won't Danrique's status be affected? Francesca could not help but feel slightly unsettled by the thought. "Danrique!”

A deep voice called out just as Francesca was deep in thought.She lifted her head and saw a well- dressed middle-aged man striding over.

This must be Frank.

Frank was tall and looked rather ordinary.

Despite the kindness in his eyes, the underlying gleam of shrewdness did not go unnoticed.

 

Chapter 1948

"Mr.Adams!"

Danrique shook hands with the man and introduced Francesca, who was standing next to him. "She's Cece, my fiancée.”

Frank wasn't surprised to hear that at all.

Instead, he teased playfully, "Your fiancée is pretty! We've been worried about your future, but it looks like you've already found yourself a significant other.”

"Sorry.l should've told you guys sooner.”

Danrique smiled,

"Haha.I'm slightly older than you, so I'm like your big brother.You know, I love to worry about my younger siblings."

Frank patted Danrique on the shoulder intimately like they were truly blood brothers.

Danrique lifted the corners of his lips and flashed a polite smile.

"Welcome, Cece!"

Frank stretched out his hand toward Francesca, who shook his hand while observing it, making sure there was no wound on it.

"Everyone, please.”

Frank welcomed everyone into the castle.

There were colorful lights and romantic music playing in the castle.

The nobles and aristocrats who were dressed in formal outfits were chatting quietly with each other. Upon seeing Frank enter with Danrique and the members of the three great families, they immediately approached and greeted Danrique enthusiastically.

Danrique, who usually disliked attending banquets like this, was especially cooperative that day.He greeted each and every one of them courteously and even introduced Francesca to them. Francesca linked arms with Danrique and felt inexplicably uneasy.She never intended to marry Danrique, but the latter still introduced her to everyone.

Would people think of me as Danrique’s fiancée when they see me in the future?

"Mr.Lindberg!"

Just as Francesca's thoughts were running wild, a melodious voice rang out.

Francesca lifted her head and saw Hazel strolling over in a gorgeous silver gown.She was slender and tall with an air of elegance, and coupled with the gown she was wearing, she exuded the natural aura of a noble.

Frank reached his hand out to the woman, who placed her hand in his without hesitation.

The two of them didn’t look like a good match at all.

Francesca sighed inwardly.l don't know how old Frank is, but he looks a lot older than Hazel.He doesn't look handsome, too.

In terms of appearance, Hazel is way out of Frank's league.It's okay if Hazel admires his capability, but if she’s only with him for the money...

Francesca had always thought that ambitions were like quicksand.

When a person's ambitions were too wild, he or she would be swallowed whole by them.

"Hazel!"

Danrique greeted Hazel courteously.

"We've been waiting for your arrival.You're finally here.”

Hazel smiled at Danrique and greeted Francesca, "Ms.Cece, good evening!"

"Good evening!"

Francesca could clearly feel Hazel's hostility.

Not even her elegant smile could hide that.

"Hazel, please bring Ms.Cece to the back hall to get some rest.I'll have a chat with Danrique” said Frank while holding Hazel's shoulder intimately.

"Okay-"

Hazel lifted her hand and gestured for Francesca to follow her.

Francesca glanced at Danrique before leaving with Hazel.

Afterward, Sean shot the two female bodyguards a look, and they immediately followed Francesca. Meanwhile, Layla and Kerrie were about to go with them too but were stopped by people in the castle.

Oliver sent someone to bring them to the side hall and even explained to them that everyone was only allowed to bring two subordinates with them during the banquet.

The rest would all be sent to the side hall.

Even Danrique brought only Sean and Gordon with him.

Therefore, there were only two female bodyguards accompanying Francesca.

Layla had an ominous feeling about it.

However, she had no choice but to obey the banquet's arrangements.

As Hazel led Francesca to the back hall, she ran into her father, Gerard, on the way.

The two chatted for a bit, and Francesca waited at the side.

At that moment, Harrier came over to chat with Gerard.

One of the waiters bumped into him by accident and caused the wine in his hand to spill all over Francesca.

 

Chapter 1949

"I'm sorry!"

Harrier apologized right away and turned to reprimand the waiter, "What are you doing? Are you blind?"

The waiter bowed and apologized incessantly, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry..."

"It's okay.’ said Francesca, not wanting to make things hard for the waiter.

Upon seeing the scene unfold, Hazel and Gerard immediately went over to handle the situation.

A subordinate of the Atkinson family took out his handkerchief and handed it to Francesca, who happened to notice a bruise on the former's left hand.

That was, apparently, a bite wound from a snake.

Francesca's pupils constricted as a cold gleam flashed past her eyes.

It turned out that the person behind her kidnapping was Gerard Atkinson.

That day at the cabin in the mountains, the head of the kidnappers was bitten by the poisonous snake that she had summoned.

Although that was a long time ago, it would surely leave a scar.

Therefore, she had been on the lookout for someone who had a bite wound on their hand. Initially, she had thought it was Harrier, but to her surprise, it was Gerard instead.

Needless to say, a big shot like Gerard would never take matters into his own hands when it came to committing such a crime.He would, of course, send his most trusted assistant.

"Let's go to the back hall, shall we? I'll get someone to bring you a few more gowns for you to choose" said Hazel, sounding like the matriarch of the place.

"That won't be necessary.I'll just clean the gown."

Francesca glanced at that subordinate before following Hazel to the lounge in the back hall.

The two female bodyguards of the Lindberg family, Heidi and Samantha, trailed behind them Francesca went to the washroom to try cleaning the wine stains on her gown, but after failing to do so, she decided to wait on the sofa in the lounge for Hazel's subordinates to bring her a new gown. "I'll keep Ms, Cece company.The rest of you, please step out.”

Hazel sent her subordinates away before turning to look at Heidi and Samantha.

The two bodyguards glanced at Francesca and only left after receiving a nod from the latter.

They didn't go far.

Instead, they stood guard by the door.

Hazel talked on the phone for a while and said to Francesca, "We've taken care of the waiter who bumped into you just now."

Francesca explained, "The waiter didn't bump into me.He bumped into Harrier, and the wine in Harrier's hand ended up spilling on me"

Hazel twirled the wine glass in her hand.

"How it happened didn't matter.The point is, you were offended.The audacity of him to offend Mr.Lindberg's fiancée! What a heinous act.”

Knowing that she wouldn't be able to talk sense into the woman, Francesca stopped arguing with her about it and asked, "How did you guys take care of the matter?"

Hazel spoke casually.

"We put him in jail, of course. What a useless prick for making such a mistake during an important banquet.”

Hearing that, Francesca lifted her head and looked at Hazel in utter disbelief.She thought that the latter was just arrogant by nature, but she didn't expect the latter to be so evil and ruthless. Perhaps to people like her, the petty lives of waiters weren't worth anything at all.

Such an arbitrary and imperious concept was deeply rooted in her nature, causing her to show that idealism in front of Francesca without reservation.

Francesca felt immensely uncomfortable, but she knew she couldn't reason with Hazel about this. "Care for some wine?"

Hazel handed Francesca a glass of red wine.

Francesca took the wine glass and savored the rich and pleasant scent of alcohol.

After taking a sip, she praised, "This wine is good!"

"Oh? Do you have wine-tasting skills? Or are you just being ostentatious?"

Hazel curled her lips into a smile.

"What do you mean?”

Francesca raised her eyebrows.

"Actually, those who are qualified to become waiters here have good family backgrounds and high- degree educations.Even their height and appearances are taken into meticulous consideration...” Twirling her wine glass, Hazel remarked meaningfully, "When they came here, they had dreams and ambitions.However, once they made a mistake, things would be different.”

Pausing for a while, she continued, "Mr.Lindberg is currently interested in you because you're like a breath of fresh air for him, and he's willing to give you anything.But who knows what will happen in the future? How long would he stay interested in you? Without support from your family's status, I'm afraid that not long after this, you'd end up like that waiter.Oh, you might even end up worse than him since you've always been the abandoned wife of a wealthy family"

Chapter 1950

"Abandoned wife?"

Francesca couldn't help but chuckle when she heard the unfamiliar phrase.

"In this world, all kinds of relationships are based on equal exchange, including love.Now, you used your young and charming appearance in exchange for Danrique's love for you, but all this will expire one day.Once you begin to decline, everything will change, and there's no way you'd still get to enjoy his love.If I were you, I could at least get along with him peacefully due to my family background.But as for you, you'd end up getting abandoned since you do not have any backing.Perhaps you'd die, or perhaps you'd be put in jail and live a life worse than death.It's also possible that you'd be given as a gift to some other man..."

"Are you done?"

Annoyed, Francesca interrupted her, "I thought you've chosen Mr.Adams as your man.Why do you still concern yourself with our relationship?”

"It's not too late if you choose to back out now.Or else—"

Hazel put her wine glass down and closed in on Francesca, attempting to threaten her.However, before she could finish her sentence, the sound of knocking on the door interrupted her.Then, Gerard's voice came from outside.

"Hazel, please come out”

Hazel shot Francesca a cold glare before getting up to head out.

When Hazel opened the door, Francesca caught a glimpse of Gerard standing outside while wearing a grim expression

Moreover, he was staring at Hazel with a stern look in his eyes.

Francesca had a rough understanding of what was going on.

Gerard wanted Hazel to marry Frank, but Hazel was still in love with Danrique, which led her to pressure Francesca into giving up.

Noticing what his daughter had in mind, Gerard came in time to stop her.

Francesca was pretty sure that was the case.

As for the reason that Gerard sent someone to kidnap her previously was probably to create an opportunity for his daughter to pursue Danrique.

Frank hadn't offered them an olive branch at that time, after all.

They placed their focus on Danrique, thinking that once Francesca was out of the picture, Hazel would be able to marry the man.

If that was true, Gerard might also be the one who sent someone to knock Francesca and Eva unconscious during the banquet last time.

Does Danrique know about aff this? Just as Francesca was mulling over her thoughts, there was once again a knock on the door.

Someone had brought gowns over for Francesca to choose from.

Francesca randomly chose one and was about to send them away when one of the maids asked her with a strange voice, "Miss, would you like me to help you change into the gown?"

Francesca lifted her eyes to glance at the maid and reacted almost immediately, "Okay.You can stay.The others may leave.”

"Noted."

The other maids heeded her words and left the room.The maid locked the door and said to Francesca in a strained voice, "It's me!"

"l know."

Francesca sized Layla up before teasing her, "Ms.Layla, it's amazing that you don't look weird at all when disguised as a young maid in her thirties.”

"Why of course.I'm pretty by nature”

Layla twisted her hips and posed complacently, obviously pleased with herself.

"How did you get in? There are a lot of rules and regulations here, and it's so heavily guarded..." Francesca asked curiously.

"I just happen to have an idea”

Layla walked toward the window and observed the situation outside.

"Francesca, I've found a way to get you out of here Just say the word, and I'll bring you out." "H-How are you going to get me out?"

Francesca felt inexplicably uneasy at that moment, causing her to stutter nervously.

"One of the noblewomen had an asthma attack just now due to something she ate.The castle's private doctor examined her condition just now, and she needs to be sent to the hospital. The ambulance should be here any minute, so we could disguise as paramedics and blend in to hop onto the ambulance; explained Layla.

She then continued in a hushed voice, "The point is, have you thought it through? Do you want to leave or not?"

Francesca was a little hesitant.