Ch. 1961..1970

Chapter 1961

Feeling annoyed, Frank freed himself from those guests’ grasp.He grabbed the gun and rushed toward Danrique, wanting to kill him.

Right then, a helicopter flew by from a distance away.It was silver in color with a symbol of a gold snake.

The people on board were the designated army for the president.

Oliver immediately pulled Frank and said nervously, "The president here.We can't act recklessly.” Frank shifted his gaze to the helicopter in the sky and then to Danrique.

Meanwhile, Danrique was staring at him with a gaze that was full of mockery.He uttered coldly, "You have lost!"

Frank stopped in his tracks.

At that moment, he finally realized that the banquet tonight was not a trap he had set up for Danrique but the other way round

Danrique had deliberately caused a huge ruckus with the intention to trigger Frank.

With that, he could gather the evidence of the crimes Frank had committed and end him completely at once.

"This is such an impressive scheme!”

As William watched the scene with his eyes narrowed, it finally hit him that he had underestimated Danrique.He always thought Danrique was merely skillful but arrogant and less experienced in the power play.

Now, he finally knew that Danrique could easily keep everything within his control and turn things in his favor.

No one could come close to Danrique’s confidence and arrogance.

"He's amazing!"

Harrier was all excited.He felt a sense of fear he had not had in the past when he looked at Danrique again.

Back then, when Harrier had gone against Danrique, Isabella's aides had helped the latter resolve the matter.

Thus, Harrier and Danrique had not had the chance to fight each other head-on.

All these years, Harrier had only seen Danrique’s skills in the business field and fighting but not his ability in the power play.

Finally, he got to witness it impressive.

He knows how to place his cards right! Other than his fiancée's appearance which was out of his expectation, every single thing was going according to Danrique’s plan.

Frank, the vice president who was ambitious and an expert in the power play, was defeated by Danrique as soon as he made his move, and there was no room for Frank to even fight back.

Be it now or in the future, Frank could never turn things around.

"Harrier, have you figured out the situation? What exactly is going on now?" Gerard asked anxiously. "Why would the president's army rush here at this time? Could it be..."

As soon as he said that, Gerard widened his eyes.

"Could it be that Danrique had already made an agreement with Mr.President to trigger Frank and take him down without him realizing?"

"You finally catch on to the situation.”

Harrier sneered.

"That's why I keep telling you not to fight against Mr.Lindberg because you wouldn't even know when your last breath will be."

Upon hearing that, Gerard felt his legs weaken, and he almost slumped to the ground.

Kevin hastily held him up and said, "Quick! Think of a solution! If not both our families will be doomed"

"How do you expect me to think of a solution? I've given my all this round.I-I..."

Gerard was on the verge of tears.

"Oh no, what should we do?"

"There's still a trump card"

Kevin cast his gaze upon Hazel.

Right then, Hazel stood rooted to the spot and stared blankly at the sky.

As though everything had finally clicked into place in her mind, she recalled what Danrique had said to her.He told her that if she was fond of Frank, he would not stop her from marrying him. However, there was no need for that marriage if she only did it for the sake of her family's benefit. Hazel finally understood that Danrique had long seen through everything.He was strong and capable enough to fight against any forces.He did not have to sacrifice the person he loved for the sake of his family, and he did it.

Unfortunately, she did not get to understand that earlier.

"Oh, right! Your daughter can still save you."

Harrier let out a taunting chuckle.

"Considering that Hazel still tried to beg Frank to let Mr.Lindberg off even at the most critical moment, Mr.Lindberg will definitely return the favor!”

Gerard heaved a sigh of relief as soon as he heard that remark.

Thank God! There's still a way out...

Chapter 1962

Soon, Frank was subdued.

Aside from the helicopter hovering in mid-air, the president had also arranged for other troops to be stationed outside the castle.

Once he had given his order, the soldiers stormed the castle to subdue Frank's men

Instantly, the quests testified for Danrique.

They said that Frank framed Danrique and tried to silence him when the former failed to seize the Lindberg family's assets.

In conclusion, the president, who never liked Frank in the first place, seized the opportunity to take the latter down

Meanwhile, Danrique placed his arm around Francesca and led her and his trusted subordinates out. Then, he drove his car out of the presidential palace.

"Did I do all of that for nothing again?"

Francesca muttered as she looked out of the car window.

Both sides of the road were lined with soldiers with their backs straight.

The soldiers were saluting the Lindberg family's convoy.

Francesca was a bit frustrated.

She recalled how she had saved Danrique twice in M Nation, but she eventually discovered that her husband was already well-prepared to fight the situation.

Things were still the same this time.

She gave up her chance at escaping and risked her life to save Danrique.

After doing so much for him, she even thought she would become a real heroine finally.

In the end, Francesca found out that Danrique was capable of saving himself, even if she did not come back for him! In fact, everything was part of his plan, except for her! "Mr.Lindberg kept us in the dark this time."

Gordon felt wronged.

"I wasn't even aware of his plan.”

"Same here.l wasn't aware of it, either."

Sean sighed.

"I was so worried and didn't have a good night's sleep.”

“Me too,"

Sloan and Mylo uttered in unison.

"I'll meet the president alone’ Danrique said blandly, "Frank is very observant and will notice that something's amiss if you give yourselves away."

"All right.”

The subordinates dared not object to Danrique’s decision.

However, Francesca had something to say about that.

"I should have known not to come back for you! Hmph, it wasn't easy for me to escape!"

"Still thinking of escaping?”

Danrique pinched her petite face and inched forward dominantly.

"Where do you want to run to? Huh?"

Francesca was about to answer when Danrique kissed her on her lips.

The rest of the men looked away immediately and refused to watch them.

"What are you doing?"

Francesca was rather embarrassed and blushed.

"Did you really hide a bomb in every corner of the presidential palace?"

Danrique asked as he cupped her face, "You can't be that fast.”

"There are only three of them, and they have all exploded.”

Francesca raised her eyebrows smugly.

"Hahaha, I see.”

Everybody else laughed when they heard her response.

"Looks like Frank was right.You used the three bombs to cause chaos and make those guests pressure Frank..."

Sean was in awe.

"What a power move!”

"Yeah? Gordon asked excitedly, “"Ms.Felch, how did you plant those bombs? And who did you get to detonate them?"

"Could it be that medical staff member?"

Sean was curious, too.

"Of course not.Lay.."

Francesca nearly mentioned that Layla had already left the presidential palace, but she bit her tongue at the last minute.

She explained, "Planting the bombs isn't hard.I came back with a military vehicle, but I didn't expect it to head inside the armory.Soon, I planted the bombs in the indoor garden and the granary.Moreover, I only needed to install a detonator inside the armory.Besides, there were a lot of hunting dogs in the castle.l summoned them to trigger the detonator..."

"So, your assistants were those hunting dogs?”

Sloan was all excited.

"You're amazing, Dr.Felch!"

"Yeah, I look up to you"

Mylo said earnestly, "You're my goddess! My idol!"

"Hahaha, you're my idol, too..."

The group of subordinates expressed their admiration and respect for Francesca.

Mylo, in particular, kept buttering her up.The men had never behaved that way toward Danrique before.

Chapter 1963

Nevertheless, Danrique was not angry.He merely regarded Francesca with a smile, and his gaze was filled with pride.

Although he did not say it out loud, he felt really pleased.

See, that's my woman! The constant flattery started to make Francesca feel cocky.

Snuggling in Danrique's arms, she giggled non-stop and forgot about her plan to escape.

When the car returned to the Lindberg residence, she was struck by a sudden realization.

Oh no, I'm back in this cage! It would be impossible to escape now! Beep! Beep! Suddenly, Danrique’s phone buzzed.He glanced at his phone's screen and answered the call

"Hil"

The person on the other end of the line said something, and a crease appeared between Danrique's eyebrows.

After a moment's silence, he muttered coldly, "Mr.President, I'm going to H City to settle some personal matters.The members of the Nacht family and the Lindberg family are sworn enemies, so how could both families form an alliance?"

The president was different from Frank.He was amiable and spoke in a calm tone.

Moreover, he kept persuading Danrique.

As a result, it was impossible for Danrique to be angry at the president.

Still, he refused to compromise.

"I'll head there for sure.If anything else arises, we'll talk about it again once I'm back!"

The president did not give up.

"Danrique, the issue has become the talk of the town.Frank is a force to be reckoned with.Although we have dirt on him, it'll be very difficult for me to take him down on my own if you don't attend the trial.This is a crucial moment, and you mustn't be absent.Can’t you hold off your personal matters for two more days? If you really must attend to them, you can assign someone to do it for you.l can also send someone over to help you.Plus, I can even seek help from Zarain.As long as you stay, the other matters can be settled easily..."

The president's words sounded like a plea, and Danrique found it hard to reject him.He frowned and felt troubled.

"Take care of the important matters" Francesca said.

She might not understand Erihalean, but she was aware of what was going on.

Right now, Frank's trial was an urgent issue.

The only person who could make Danrique answer the phone and feel troubled was the president. "Just let me spend a few days alone, and don't be so clingy.I'll return to H City myself.Perhaps, I might even locate that famous doctor”

Francesca eyed Danrique, as if she did not want him to bother her.

"Mr.Lindberg, I can accompany Ms.Felch on her return.Don't worry.We'll take good care of her!" Gordon said hastily.

"That is, we'll head back first, and you can come over once you've settled your business"

Francesca added, "Don't delay it because of me.Otherwise, I would be the one to blame”

“All right.”

Danrique finally gave in and promised the president that he would attend the trial. He told Francesca, "I'll come over after I send Francesca off at the airport tomorrow.”

"Great, I'll wait for you."

The president was overjoyed.

"Please send my regards to Ms.Cece and express my gratitude!"

"Okay,"

Once the call had ended, Danrique pinched Francesca's chin and warned her sternly, "We'll get you treated, and don't ever think of running away again.Got it?"

"Got it" Francesca replied.

As soon as she answered him, she was stunned by her own reaction.She did not expect herself to be so decisive.

Do I really want to stay? But if I don't leave, I'll have to marry him.

As she thought of that, Francesca felt melancholic, and her head started to hurt again.

Back at the castle, Danrique carried Francesca back to her room and reminded Norah to look after her.

Then, he went to his study room.He still had some unfinished business to sort out.

Apart from Frank, he also had to deal with the other three families.

Norah instructed a maid to run a bath for Francesca and help the latter to bathe and change her clothes.

After having dinner in her room, Francesca lay on the bed and fell into a deep sleep.She was too exhausted and wanted to sleep when Layla phoned up.

"Francesca, how are you?"

"I'm fine. Where are you, Layla?"

Francesca woke up.

Chapter 1964

"I'm still in Xendale.Good to know you're okay.l was worried sick”

Layla heaved a sigh of relief and said, "I saw a major explosion at the presidential palace, and later, some new military vehicles entered the area.There were even helicopters, and it looked like a war was going on.It was so scary.”

"It's all settled now"

Francesca whispered, "Apparently, Danrique was already well-prepared.”

"He's even calmer than I imagined.”

Layla sighed.

"When I saw the helicopters, I knew everything was within his control.Even if you don't go back for him, he'll be fine."

"Right..."

Francesca smiled bitterly.

"I risk my life all the time, but I always end up doing that for nothing!"

"Well, you can't put it that way"

Layla chuckled.

"At least, you know what you want..."

"What I want?"

Francesca was taken aback.

"You've fallen in love with him.Don't you know that?"

Layla sighed.

"Francesca, you can't ignore my prior advice to you.Do whatever you want. just want you to be happy!"

Francesca was touched by Layla's words.

"Francesca, you should head back to H City as soon as possible and look for your master to perform surgery on you.We can talk about other things later.You can't put this matter off anymore, do you understand?"

Layla advised solemnly.

“Understood.”

Francesca nodded.

"Right, there's also Anthony.I'll look for Gordon at once and make them release Anthony. Where should Anthony look for you?"

"Bliss Hotel!"

"Noted."

After ending the call, Francesca looked for Gordon and told him to release Anthony.

Gordon did not even ask any questions.He merely ordered someone to take care of the matter. On the contrary, Francesca was curious.

"You didn’t even hesitate over this.Aren't you worried that Danrique would berate you?"

"Before Mr.Lindberg went out, he had already told us to follow your orders,"

Gordon answered with a grin, "That includes releasing your ex-boyfriend!"

"Pt!"

Francesca was not sure if she should laugh or cry at that remark.

"Fine, release him immediately and send him to..."

"Bliss Hotel.l know"

Gordon interrupted.

"How did you know?"

Francesca was puzzled.Are they also aware of Layla's hiding place?

"Hehe..."

Gordon chuckled sheepishly and lowered his head.

"I'll send him there personally.Don't worry."

Following that, he hurried away.

Francesca watched as Gordon left.

Conflicting emotions welled up inside her.lt seemed like Danrique had already known that Layla was her accomplice.

Does this mean he's also aware of Anthony's identity? Has he discovered the truth about Lovely Care Foundation and the orphanage as well? An anxious Francesca returned to her room while various thoughts raced across her mind.She had to admit that she had a slight change of heart. Initially, Francesca had firmly believed that she would never get married in this lifetime and never be tied down by someone else.She wanted to devote her life to fulfilling her personal missions.

Yet, she suddenly realized that she was reluctant to leave Danrique.

Francesca was used to his closeness and seeing him every morning.

When he was in danger, she would panic and feel anxious.

Furthermore, she would risk her life to save him.

Layla's words made her reconsider her relationship with Danrique.I think I've fallen in love with him for real...

As these thoughts crowded her mind, Francesca lay on the bed and drifted into sleep.

While she was sleeping, she sensed someone kissing her.

The tender kiss landed on her forehead and spread across her eyes, cheeks, lips, and neck.The kisses traveled down her body, and they felt warm.

Francesca knew from the familiar scent that Danrique was back.He had seemed to consume some liquor that night.

The strong smell of liquor drifted in the air as he breathed, carrying with it the flames of passion as if he was trying to ignite her.

Chapter 1965

Francesca opened her heavy eyelids and saw Danrique.He was kissing her and unbuttoning his shirt.

His enamored expression seemed charming yet terrifying.

Francesca pushed his shoulders away nervously.

She was about to speak when he slid a hand under her dress.

"Ah!"

Francesca shrieked, and her eyes went wide.

Her entire body stiffened, and she tried pushing him away frantically.

However, a series of warm, passionate kisses began to rain on her.

She was caught off guard! At first, Francesca wanted to resist Danrique's advances, but her body slumped under his weight like a puddle of water.

There was simply no chance of fighting back.

The flames of passion burnt like wild fire...

Beads of sweat had formed on Danrique's forehead, and the droplets landed on Francesca's body. Francesca shut her eyes nervously and bit her lip, refusing to look at him.

Danrique was about to take things further when a car's alarm went off outside.

Next, all of the cars’ alarms rang as if something had triggered them.

The noise was deafening.

Francesca snapped out of her daze and shoved Danrique away frantically. The unexpected commotion had spoiled Danrique"s mood.He put on his pants and went to the window to have a look.

Instantly, his expression sank.He picked up his shirt and wore it as he walked outside.

When he opened the door, one of his subordinates came forward to report, "Mr.Lindberg, it's Anthony!"

"Where is he?" Danrique asked firmly.

"We've captured him," the subordinate replied with a lowered head.

"Bring him in.” Danrique headed downstairs.

YES]

When Francesca overheard the conversation, she quickly got dressed and headed outside. Anthony got beaten up again.He curled up like a helpless little rabbit and looked extremely pitiful. Danrique’s blood boiled at the sight of Anthony, and he was about to kick him when a panicky Francesca cried, "Stop it!"

Although Danrique was furious, he withheld his force and kicked Anthony to the ground. Francesca ran forward and helped Anthony up anxiously.She was alarmed when she saw the blood on his face.

"Anthony, why are you..."

She turned around and asked, "Who hit you?"

Mylo walked forward meekly.

"I'm sorry, Dr.Felch.It was me!”

"Why did you hit him?"

Francesca glared at Mylo angrily and turned to regard Gordon.

"Didn't you say that you would send him to Bliss Hotel personally?"

"It was like this, Ms.Felch”

Gordon explained hastily, "Two hours ago, I said I would take him away, but he refused to come with me.He told me his injuries were serious, and he would die along the way.Thus, he needed to see a doctor.I got a doctor to examine him and bring him inside the car, but he used the opportunity to escape.He hit the cars to create a disturbance...”

"Anthony; Francesca asked him with a frown, "why didn't you leave? What are you trying to do?" "I'm not leaving you behind!"

Anthony grabbed Francesca's hand tightly.His gaze was steady and unwavering, even though he had been beaten up.

Anthony was touched by his own righteous and loyal expression.It was as if Francesca was a captive, and he had rather die with her than leave her behind.

Francesca was at a total loss for words.

"Have you got a death wish?"

Danrique stared at Anthony's hand and bellowed, "I'll grant you your wish!"

"Danrique..."

"Gordon!"

YEsT

"Cut off that bast*rd's hand!"

Danrique pointed at the hand used to hold Francesca's hand.

"Yes!"

Anthony went pale, but he stood in front of Francesca and cried, "Cut off my hand if you want to, but don't touch her..."

"You come here!"

Gordon dragged Anthony over and shoved him to the ground.

A few subordinates stepped on Anthony's limbs to prevent him from moving.

Gordon raised his blade and was about to lower it when Francesca roared, "Stop it! Back down at once!"

 

Chapter 1966

Nobody else dared to make a move.

The subordinates turned their attention to Danrique.

Danrique’s brows were locked in a tight frown.He was about to speak when Francesca glared at him furiously.

"What? My words don't count, do they?"

Danrique was fuming with rage, but he clenched his teeth and nodded.

"They do!"

"Release him!"

Francesca yelled.

Gordon and the others retreated.

Anthony lay on the ground like an overturned tortoise and stared at Francesca blankly.

What happened? Why has Francesca seemed to become the master of this place? "Get the medical kit? Francesca instructed Kerrie.

Kerrie looked at Danrique timidly.

Danrique did not answer.

Sean made a gesture with his hand and Kerrie said hastily, "Yes."

Then, she hurried to grab the medical kit.

Francesca tended to Anthony's wounds in Danrique's presence.Her movements seemed rather intimate.

The flames of wrath were about to ooze from Danrique as he stared at Anthony intently.

Anthony glanced at him meekly and looked away once more.He was shuddering in fear.

Sweat trickled down his forehead continuously and blended with his blood.

"Why are you sweating so much?" Francesca wiped his sweat with a wet towel.

Danrique tightened his grip around his cup.

Smash! It was then crushed into pieces.

Anthony was so frightened by the sound that he nearly passed out.

Francesca frowned and glared at Danrique.

"Go back to your room."

Danrique cocked his head and stared at her in disbelief. How dare she boss me around?

"I told you to go back to your room."

Francesca gave him a kick.

"I'll come over in a while"

Her tone had softened when she uttered the last sentence.

Despite Danrique’s displeasure, he still did as he was told.

Before he left, he gave one last bone-chilling stare at Anthony, causing the latter to shiver in fright. After tending to Anthony's wounds, Francesca whispered, "All right, I'll assign someone to take you to Bliss Hotel so that you can meet Layla.Be good, and don't cause a ruckus again.”

"Aren't you coming with me, Francesca?"

Anthony held her hand, fearing that he would never see her again.

Francesca pondered over it and answered firmly, “I'm not leaving.Don’t you worry about me.”

"As for the medical treatment...”

"We'll fly to H City tomorrow to take care of it"

Francesca interrupted him and said enigmatically, "Focus on your work, and don't worry about anything else"

What I really mean is that you take care of matters at the orphanage, and stop interfering with my business.

"Does this mean you want to be with him?"

Anthony scanned his surroundings weakly when he uttered that.

Numerous pairs of eyes were on him communicating a nonverbal cue..If you dare to coax the lady of our house into leaving, we'll skin you alive.

"Yeah."

Francesca nodded and spoke with a grin.

"I'm the lady of the house now.Didn't you realize this? They obey me."

"Looks like it..."

Anthony did realize it.

Aside from the subordinates, even the terrifying Danrique listened to her.It looked like Francesca had scaled the ranks.

From the looks of it, she would not be taken advantage of, no matter where she went.

After all, she had managed to tame Danrique! "Go, then."

Francesca patted his shoulder and reminded Gordon, "Make sure he reaches the hotel safely.If anything happens to him, I'll hold you responsible”

"Yes, Ms.Felch"

Gordon replied with his head lowered.He respected Francesca just as much as he respected Danrique.

"You've got to protect yourself.If you're bullied, or if you break up with him, do tell me about it..." Anthony spoke.

"Nobody dares to bully Ms.Felch.Let's go."

Gordon grabbed Anthony and pushed him into the car.He feared Anthony would say something to anger Danrique.

Once Anthony was in the car, he put his head out of the window and cried, "Francesca, don't forget to get the surgery done as soon as possible.Once it's over, let me know..."

"You talk too much!” Gordon rolled his eyes

"No wonder you always get beaten up!"

 

Chapter 1967

Francesca stood at the doorway and watched as Gordon's car cruised away.

At least, with Anthony gone, a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

Norah had prepared supper, and she asked Francesca whether she would like to have it in her room or the dining room.

Francesca felt discomfort in her stomach, so she thanked Norah before heading upstairs.

As soon as she entered her room and closed the door, a pair of strong arms wrapped around her from behind her back.

"Ah!"

Francesca was startled.She was about to look back when Danrique kissed her from behind.

He even pinned her against the wall to prevent her from resisting his advances.

"Mmm..Mmm..."

Francesca could not move a muscle, so she let herself be ravaged by Danrique's kisses.

Like a dominant beast that would stop at nothing to capture its prey, he wanted to devour her that night.

Francesca struggled for a while before she stopped moving.

She snuggled limply in Danrique’s arms and allowed him to do whatever he wanted with her. Danrique imitated the moves he learned from adult films and lifted her dress.

He was about to advance when he discovered something and stopped moving.

"What..What's this?"

Danrique put Francesca down quickly and turned her over.

"Are you hurt?"

"What?"

Francesca stared at him blankly.

"Why is there blood on your butt?”

Danrique raised his hands.

When he ran his hands over her earlier, he ended up touching blood.

ils

Francesca blushed violently and ran to the bathroom.

"Cece, are you okay?"

Danrique rushed forward to ask her, "Should I get a doctor?”

"No need!"

Francesca wished the earth would open up and swallow her.

A moment ago, she had already felt unwell, and she wanted to examine herself when she entered her room.

However, as soon as she had shut the door, Danrique hugged and smooched her.He's so clueless! He thinks I'm hurt.

In fact, Francesca was on her period.

"Coos, Cove..."

Danrique was panic-stricken.

"Are you all right?"

Bleeding from the butt is a major issue.Did she get shot when she saved me? Or is she injured? Whatever it is, she must see a doctor.

Francesca was annoyed by Danrique's constant cries of concern.

There was no sanitary pad inside the bathroom, so she had to open the door.

"How are you?"

Danrique pulled her closer to examine her.

"Have you been shot?"

"Of course not!"

Francesca was amused by his reaction.

"It's just that time of the month..."

"What?"

Danrique had never interacted with women since his teenage years, so he did not understand women at all.

Nonetheless, he still had some common sense.He regained his composure after noticing Francesca's look of embarrassment.

"Oh, I get it"

"Get Mdm.Norah over"

Francesca cried, "Quickly!"

Danrique ordered a maid to summon Norah.

Norah brought two maids over, for she assumed they were required to make the bed.

As they walked, she whispered, "That was fast, but it's no surprise as it's Mr.Lindberg's first time.He's inexperienced, after all.Don't make any remarks about him, you hear me?"

"Yes," the two maids replied cautiously.

The three women entered the bedroom and were about to make the bed when they realized how clean and tidy it was.

"She's in the bathroom”

Danrique muttered before heading out.

Norah was shocked.

"Oh, dear.Did Mr.Lindberg hurt Ms.Cece because he was too inexperienced and rough?"

She rushed into the bathroom and found Francesca sitting on the toilet bowl and staring into space. When she saw Norah, Francesca said, "Mdm.Norah, I'm on my period.Please get some sanitary pads for me!"

"Uh."

Norah and the two maids were stunned.

"Quick, quick! Get them ready!"

Soon, Norah snapped back to her senses and urged the maids to get the items ready.

"Also, tell the cooks to prepare something nourishing.”

Ves?

After that, the maids hurried outside.

"Ms.Cece, I'll run a bath for you.Take a hot bath, and the items will be ready once you're done,” Norah said.

"Thank you, Mdm.Norah.After running the bath, Norah exited the bathroom and shook her head disappointedly.

"Poor Mr.Lindberg.He hasn't even lost his virginity yet..."

Chapter 1968

Francesca took another shower before she slipped herself into a set of clean and comfortable sleepwear.

After she drank the warm soup Norah had prepared for her, she went on to nestle herself snuggly into the bed, ready to turn in for the night.

That was when the door crept open.

Good grief.

Here he comes again!

"Don't you already know that I'm on the rag?”

Sitting up swiftly, Francesca aimed a pillow at him.

The projectile was snatched out of the air.

Placing it underneath his own head, Danrique then laid himself down next to her in the same fluid sequence.

Following that, he reached out to reel her petite frame into his arms so that he may cradle her like a kitten.

"Leave me alone!"

Francesca struggled in exasperation as she feared he would be unable to keep his own primal urges in check.

"I just want to cuddle, that's all" whispered Danrique into her ears as he playfully pinched her behind with his huge mitt.

"But no guarantees if you are going to keep up with your squirming like this.”

Upon hearing that, Francesca settled herself down and docilely submitted herself to his embracing. "Does your abdomen hurt?"

Reaching his warm hand inside of her clothes, he gently massaged her belly in a way that felt oddly soothing for her.

"Not anymore"

Francesca raised her dainty head to regard him.His well-defined features appeared especially charming when illuminated by the mellow light cast against the duskiness of the room.

Those amber eyes of his sparkled gloriously even in the darkness.

Arising impulse to kiss him caused her to purse her lips.

"Francesca Felch!"

Oblivious to her sentiments, he continued to hail her softly under his breath.

"It's a lovely name, but I still prefer to call you Cece!"

"How did I used to address you?"

Though unable to recall some of the subtleties from their past, she could still remember that they had indeed shared a delightful first love together.

Those fragments came back to her quite often, sans some of the details which had eluded her. "You were so rude back then!" scoffed Danrique, rolling his eyes.

"Calling me “hey you’ whenever you saw me,”

"Hahaha.Yeah.That does seem like something I'd say" said Francesca with a laugh.

"In that case, why did you call me Cece then?"

"Cause that's what you said your name was when I asked!" replied Danrique, nudging her on the nose.

"That doesn't..."

Francesca narrowed her eyes in concentration.

"Cece does sound familiar, but I don't think that's my name.”

"Enough of that."

Unbothered by such trivialities, Danrique leaned in to suck on her tender lips.

"Mmph..."

Eyes widening in astonishment, Francesca resisted with both hands on his shoulders, petrified by the thought of what else he might do.

Danrique’s kiss only grew in intensity while his scintillating presence and fiery passion threatened to dissolve her.

In her anxiety, tension mounted throughout Francesca's body, prompting her to pound hard upon his back with both fists.

His body, however, was tough as steel and impervious to the resistance she was putting up.

He finally relinquished his hold on her a while later with a final peck on the chin.

"Relax.We're just going to kiss, and nothing else...”

"But."

Unable to resist his ardor, the strength all over her body had already deserted Francesca.

She could only endure it silently with her eyes shut.

As those two hearts mirrored the purity of one another, the night was as pristine as water. Outside, florets of snow drifted down into the castle until the entire place was transformed into a picturesque whiteness.

Having been tormented for an undetermined amount of time, Francesca was being pushed to the brink until Danrique reluctantly let go of her.

Then, he shot onto his feet and dashed into the bathroom.

Hugging the pillow in bewilderment, Francesca stared at the bathroom door.She had no idea what was going through his mind.

A while later, Danrique came back out exuding a chilliness, with beads of wetness about him not completed toweled dry.

"Did you just go in for a bath? Heavens.

Was that a cold shower you took?"

Francesca could sense that he was frigid as an ice cube and got so upset with him that she pounded on his chest.

"Aren't you worried about catching a chill?"

"I'd have you to blame for that!"

Danrique then pulled her in and buried her head into his own chest.

"Let's sleep!”

"You're so annoying!"

 

Chapter 1969

Unsure if it was because she had Danrique's arms around her, Francesca felt exceptionally secure and thus slept very well that night.

Undisturbed by dreams, she rested all the way till she roused on her own at dawn.

Feeling completely invigorated, Francesca habitually stretched her back and let out a yawn. Then, she flipped her body around like an indolent little feline.

That was when she discovered the absence of the person next to her.

When she opened her eyes, she realized that he was really gone, and as far as she could tell, the water in the bathroom was not running either.

"Danrique! Danrique Lindberg!" Francesca called.

"Are you here, you rogue?”

That yielded no reply.

Okay.

I suppose he must have gotten out of bed early.

She could sense that he had not managed to sleep well the night before.

Although he hardly moved, his body felt stiff and tensed against hers, as though he was unable to relax.

Conversely, she had slept quite soundly herself; it was as though his presence had a hypnotic effect on her.

In a jolly fine mood, Francesca hopped out of bed to freshen up.

At that moment, someone came knocking at her door.

Norah's voice emanated from the other side.

"May I come in, Ms.Cece?"

"Please enter!"

In the midst of brushing her teeth, Francesca's mouth was bubbling with froth.

Enter Norah at the lead of two maids to tidy the room and also to bring Francesca some ginger tea to warm her belly with.

"Please come downstairs after you have finished your drink, Ms.Cece.Mr.Lindberg is waiting to have breakfast together with you."

"Okay."

Getting her own attire in order, Francesca then went along with Norah.

Seated prim and proper inside the dining room, Danrique was helping himself to some breakfast. On the table was a generous spread of offerings in the Chanaean style, all of them Francesca's favorites.

"Good morning!"

With a pep in her step, Francesca bounded into the dining room and sat down to eat, almost childlike in her exuberance.

"Morning!"

Danrique regarded her smilingly and with affection in his eyes.

"There's no rush.It's not a contest.”

"This is so good.That one too..."

Francesca stuffed her mouth and spoke while she ate.

"Come to think of it; I think I haven't had anything to eat last night.”

"Haha..."

Danrique could not stifle a laugh.

"That must have been hard on you!"

Rolling her eyes at him, Francesca resumed with her feasting.

Elegantly sipping away at his tea, Danrique looked rather pleased while he watched her eat, as though it was enjoyable for him to do so.

"Ms.Atkinson has requested an audience, Mr.Lindberg!"

At that moment, a subordinate approached to report.

"Tell her that I'm busy right now."

Danrique took a glance at his watch.

"Have her come back in the evening instead.”

"Understood."

The subordinate went to relay his message.

Come back in the evening...

Those words jutted against Francesca’s throat like fish bones, and she found them hard to swallow. Having lost her appetite, she placed down her utensils, wiped clean the corner of her lips, and glared at Danrique.

"Huh? Are you done already?”

Danrique’s brows perked at her.

"Planning to hook up with someone else while I'm away?"

Francesca looked askance as she called him out.

"You got it all worked out, haven't you?"

"Umm..."

Stunned at first, Danrique subsequently broke into a boisterous guffaw.

"Is this jealousy I'm seeing from you?"

"Hmph!"

Francesca shot him a look as she set herself upright and looked to storm off.

Danrique immediately reached out to grab ahold of her before he instructed his subordinate, "Tell her not to come over at night either, and send Sean over to inform her of my decision in the afternoon.”

"Understood."

The subordinate then promptly went out after her.

"Happy now?" said Danrique, looking gleefully at Francesca.

Sitting back down, Francesca then became self- conscious of her own overreaction.

Considering that he would not have said what he did in front of her otherwise, it occurred to her that it might be more probable that Danrique had no interest in Hazel whatsoever.

Perhaps it might be work related? The thought of that made her change her tone.

"Actually, that was not what I meant.You're just going to meet with her to talk business. get that." "What business has she and I have to discuss?" said Danrique casually.

"She's in no position to talk business with me, to begin with."

"Does that mean that it's personal, then?" asked Francesca in displeasure.

Chapter 1970

"I guess so," Danrique answered casually.

Francesca's expression darkened again, her lips curled.

“Try this..."

Danrique placed a slice of angel food cake on her plate.

"It's made by the new chef."

Francesca had lost her appetite.

Just as she was about to speak, a subordinate reported again, "Mr.Lindberg, the private jet is ready.” "Okay; Danrique responded before turning to Francesca.

"After you get to H City, be good and don't go anywhere.Gordon will find Dr.Felch.By the time he finds the doctor, I should be done with the matters here and go there.”

"All right.”

Francesca felt reluctant to be apart from him.

"You should attend to the matters.Don't worry about me.Actually, I—"

"Mr.Lindberg, you have a call from the president...Francesca was about to tell Danrique that she was actually Dr.Felch's apprentice, but just then, Sean came in hurriedly with a phone in his hand.Danrique took over the phone and answered it.

"Mr.President, I will go to the airport immediately.Yes, we'll reach at ten o'clock. What's the hurry? Sure, I'll do it as soon as possible”

After ending the call, Danrique glanced at his watch while speaking to Francesca unhurriedly. "You should eat more.We're not rushing.”

"Nah, I'm fine.Let's go.”

Francesca knew that he still had many important things to attend to.

The issue with Frank was complicated, so Danrique had to settle every aspect of it.

Besides, he also needed to deal with the three great families.

At a time like this, she didn't want to distract him.

"Okay.I've arranged for the chef to board the plane with you so that you won't be hungry while you're on the way there."

Danrique kissed her on the forehead before instructing the subordinates to get ready.

Norah took Francesca's backpack from upstairs.

Francesca checked it, finding her jewelry and identity document inside.

When Danrique saw her checking the jewelry, he couldn't help but chuckle and say, "Look at you.You can get half of my property as my wife.Those are nothing.”

"Oh, I think you're right."

Realization struck Francesca instantly.

"Then how many properties do you own?"

"I can't give you an answer now. didn't calculate them.”

He thought about it seriously.

"But you buying jewelry every day won't be a problem to me"

"I can buy jewelry that costs over one hundred million every day?"

Francesca widened her eyes in shock.

"Just how much money do you have?"

"I earn money every day."

Danrique suddenly realized something as he continued, "But if you're really driven to spend, I'll have to work all the time...

"We'll have children to look after us when we get old. They'll be our provider at that time" Francesca blurted out.

"That works."

Danrique raised his eyebrows.

"Then you have to bear more sons for me to inherit my assets.”

"Why sons?" she inquired curiously.

"In Erihal, only sons inherit the family fortune? Danrique replied with a serious expression. "Otherwise, with my aunt's ability back then, she would have been the head of the family and would not have been ostracized by others”

"Oh, really?"

Francesca was indignant.

"By the way, property acquired before marriage is not considered separate property in Erihal, am I right?”

Danrique nodded.

"Legally married wives in Erihal have high status!”

"Really?"

Francesca was elated with the revelation, suddenly feeling that it was not a bad thing to marry Danrique.

"Think about it."

He stroked her hair dotingly.

"Once you're healed, marry me and become Mrs.Lindberg.You'll be a major shareholder of Lindberg Corporation like me."

"Haha! That sounds good..."

Thrilled, Francesca started imagining her life after being a major shareholder of Lindberg Corporation.

By then, she would establish a foundation.

With that, she would no longer be worried about funds for her orphanages.

Seeing that she was on cloud nine, Danrique suddenly thought of a way.l probably can make it happen if I work on this.