Ch. 1971..1980

Chapter 1971

While they were on the way to the airport, Danrique held Francesca in his arms with a heavy heart. Even though he knew they were going to be apart from one another for only a few days, he felt uneasy for some reason.

On the other hand, Francesca was quite nonchalant.

She was planning to get some nice food and invite her old friends to hang out after reaching H City, not worrying about Danrique at all, and neither did she think about when they would be able to reunite.

Danrique said once again, "I'll get to you right after I settle the things here.Wait for me!"

"There's no hurry.Just focus on your matters.”

Francesca did not dwell on that.

Upon hearing her response, he was dejected.

Stupid woman, won't you miss me? Before they knew it, they had reached the airport apron.

By the time they got out of the car, it had stopped snowing.

The airport staff was done making preparations, and Sean was having a word with them while loading the luggage onto the plane.

After folding Francesca's collars, Danrique cupped her face and spoke gently.

"Stay put, and wait for me.Okay?"

His simple words were filled with deep affection and also acted as a reminder for her.He was never one who liked to talk a lot, but he had been reminding her of the same thing a few times that day. "I got it!"

Francesca stood on her tip-toe and pecked him on the lips.

Danrique was stunned as a wave of exhilaration washed over him.

That was the first time she took the initiative to kiss him.

Just as he was about to kiss her back excitedly, she dashed away.

Like a rabbit, she leaped up the stairs, heading toward the entrance of the aircraft.

Only then did she turn around and wave her hands.

"You should get back!"

Gazing at her with boundless affection, Danrique pursed his lips and recalled the kiss just now. Warmth and happiness surged within him.

"They are so sweet! I'm jealous!"

While Sean was envious, he also felt happy for Danrique.

All of Mr.Lindberg's perseverance has finally paid off.

With her cheeks flushed, Francesca boarded the plane and looked outside the window.

Danrique was still standing by the car, not willing to leave.

Looking at one another through the plane window, the couple waved goodbye.

As reluctance filled her heart, she was finally clear that he was the man she loved.

Meanwhile, Danrique couldn't help but feel anxious.

Perhaps he was worried that Francesca would run away or that there would be trouble.

He reminded Gordon again and again, "You need to protect her well. Nothing can happen to her" "Mr.Lindberg, don't worry.I swear on my life I'll keep her safe"

Gordon promised confidently.

"Keep a close eye on her.Don't let her escape; Danrique added

"Haha.Yes, Mr.Lindberg.Don't worry-"

Gordon bowed to Danrique respectfully before boarding the plane with the subordinates. Reluctantly, Danrique entered the car.

Sean teased, "Mr.Lindberg, it's my first time seeing you speak so much.”

Even when Danrique was dealing with work matters, he would always be brief and concise. However, that day, he gave similar reminders over and over again.

Now, he was still feeling restless.He was even starting to regret his decision to agree with the president to stay behind.l should have accompanied Francesca to H City and handled the other stuff after her surgery is over.

We've been through a lot to be together.It wasn't easy for us to meet, and it wasn't for her to open up to me and fall in love with me, either.

Yet, we're now separated.

He even had a sense of foreboding that their separation this time would be forever.

As the thought flashed across Danrique's mind, he felt more anxious, his brows furrowed.

When Sean saw him frowning, the former reassured, "Mr.Lindberg, don't worry.Everything will be fine.Zarain is governed by state law, so it's much safer than Erihal. Gordon has brought many people with him.I'm sure they can keep Ms.Felch safe and sound.Besides, she is very capable.She's the one who saves you every time you're in danger.What could happen to her?”

"Because she is capable, I'm worried that Gordon can't keep a close eye on her.”

Danrique sighed

"Maybe I'm overthinking.She won't run away, will she?"

"She won't.l can feel that she's fallen in love with you"

 

Chapter 1972

Upon hearing what Sean said, he recalled how Francesca risked herself to rescue him last night, their intimate moment last night, and their parting kiss just now.

Danrique’s heart slowly calmed down as he convinced himself to have faith in her and not overthink things.

Meanwhile, Francesca was spacing out on her seat.

Not moments ago, she was being carefree and didn't feel the melancholy of their parting.She didn't even think of hugging him before her departure.

However, now that she was alone, she felt empty within.

All she could think of was his figure, his handsome face, as well as his warm hug, and his strong arms

She didn't think much of his presence when she had him, but she felt a sense of dejection now that she no longer had him around.So this is how it feels to like someone.

"Would you like to have something to eat, Ms.Felch?"

A familiar voice came through.

Francesca was surprised to see Sloan when she raised her head.

"You're here too, Sloan!"

"Yes.Mr.Lindberg had me come with Gordon as your escort.”

Every time Sloan saw Francesca, he would get all starry-eyed, his gaze full of admiration.

"Haha, that's great”

Francesca huffed a laugh.

"Does this mean Mylo is staying in Xendale alongside Sean?"

"Yes.Mylo was highly regarded, so sir wanted him around.”

"Hm, you ain't half bad yourself.Do your best.”

Francesca smiled at him.

"Tee-hee.."

Sloan scratched his head shyly while blushing slightly.

"Ms.Felch, would you like to get some rest in the room? The flight will take fourteen hours, asked Gordon with concern

"Okay.I'll take a nap.Get me when we're about to arrive at our destination”

Perhaps because Francesca was on her period, she was feeling a little lethargic.

All the while, Gordon kept an eye on the situation on board throughout their flight.

Although there was only a slim chance of anything going wrong, he still exercised caution.

After all, he was well aware of just how important Francesca was to Danrique, so he was determined to keep her safe at all costs.

The private jet soared through the clouds and arrived at H City in Zarain after a fourteen-hour flight. The staff from the local branch came to fetch them.

Gordon escorted Francesca onto the car that drove them to a villa near South Sea.

Francesca admired the view along the way, feeling freshened up and relaxed.

Compared to other countries, she liked Zarain the most, especially H City.

The city was abundant, technologically advanced, yet warm nonetheless.It was a place filled with memories.

The huge LED screens on the highrises that lined up along the road were playing advertisements for technology products by Divine Corporation.

It was evident that the industry under the Nacht family was prospering in Zarain.

On the contrary, there was no longer a trace left of Windt Corporation, which was once the top- ranking corporation in H City.

Just like a ship that went missing in the ocean, there was nothing left to prove that it once existed. However, advertisements by the Sterling family and the Brown family still showed up occasionally. Although they weren't as eye-catching as Divine Corporation's advertisements, it was an indication that the two families still had a seat at the table.

Within a little more than a month, the market at H City had undergone a dramatic upheaval.

The same could be said of life, for sudden storms would bring about unpredictable changes.

As Francesca was feeling wistful while her mind ran rampant, her phone rang, which she picked up immediately.

"Hello"

"Have you arrived?"

Danrique’s voice was kind and gentle.

"Mmm, I just arrived and am in the car"

Similarly, Francesca no longer displayed her previous aloofness and rowdiness.

Instead, she sounded demure.

"How did you know my phone number?"

"One learns whatever one wishes to know;’ Danrique stated with pride.

"Why didn't you inform me of your arrival? Do you no longer wish to become the major shareholder of Lindberg Corporation?"

"Hahaha!"

Francesca burst into laughter.

"I want it! Of course, I want itt"

"Make sure you call and text me every day.Do you understand?"

Danrique sounded as if he were giving orders and making requests.

"Tee-hee! Sure."

Francesca blushed a little.So this is how romantic relationships are...

Chapter 1973

"Danrique! Danrique! Mr.President is awaiting your reply.”

Over the phone, a voice could be heard calling out to Danrique.

"Are you still working? Isn't it already midnight at Xendale?" asked Francesca.

"Mm, answered Danrique.

"It should be evening at H City.Get rested after you arrive.l have a meeting.”

"l will.Go back to work"

Francesca said quickly.

"Kiss—"

Danrique was initially planning to request a kiss from her, but she hung up before he could finish his sentence.

All he could do was heave a sigh.

That woman.She sure is heartless.

Meanwhile, Francesca was leaning against the back of her seat with her phone in hand as she got all giddy.

I never knew being in a romantic relationship felt so nice.

There is someone whose mind I'm always on and vice versa..She had never felt such bliss and sweetness before.

"I've never seen Mr.Lindberg care so much about another person despite having been working with him for so many years"

Gordon exclaimed with utmost sincerity.

"You're the first person to get him to do that, Ms.Felch!"

" will also be the last!"

Francesca blurted out before being stunned by her own words.

The fact that I'm having such thoughts and starting to grow desires to claim him as my own means I've definitely fallen for him...

When they arrived at the villa, they found everything to be exquisite.

Danrique’s style had always been that of exquisiteness, simplicity, and comfort.He never was after luxury and glamor, and all of his dwellings reflected his taste.

Francesca liked the place.She could get a view of the sea from the balcony in her room.It was evening.

The brilliant rays of the setting sun shone on the ocean, its waves shimmering with breathtaking beauty.

After Gordon and the other subordinates had settled down, they came to report back to Francesca. "Ms.Felch, I will be heading to Phoenix City while Sloan and the remaining eight of them will stay to protect you.Do you perhaps have any other orders?"

Phoenix City? thought Francesca.

It seems they've actually discovered my master's base, but I wonder if they'll be able to make him budge.She had hesitated if she should inform Gordon of her relationship with Dr.Felch, but eventually decided against it.

Master might feel more reluctant if I revealed our relationship.it would be better if Gordon visited him as a stranger.

Master might just come to H City if he deems Gordon sincere enough.

After all, Phoenix City isn't too far away from H City, and Master had some close acquaintances staying here.

Besides, he’s a kind doctor despite his obstinance.

"Indeed.The doctor we found lives in Phoenix City, but we're still investigating the exact location of his dwelling, so I need to bring my men along" replied Gordon.

"Doctors like him tend to live in seclusion on mountains.You can give that a try"

Francesca offered him a tip.

"You're right.I'll look into it immediately”

Gordon seemed to have gotten a grasp of something

"I'll be heading off now.Get Sloan to run any errands that you might have,"

"Okay.Go on"

Francesca nodded.

Gordon left in a hurry, but Francesca stopped him as she recalled something.

"Hold on..."

Gordon stopped in his tracks and turned around to look at her.

"Do you have any other orders, Ms.Felch?"

"Don't tell the doctor who I am if you do get to meet him.Don't tell him my name and past either.Just inform him of my age and injury”

Francesca instructed solemnly.

"Got it."

Gordon nodded.

"Mr.Lindberg had said the same thing.After all, you have a unique status now, so it would be better to keep a low profile when it comes to these things"

"Mm.You can leave now."

"Understood."

Gordon left with his men.

The thought that she would soon be meeting her master again made Francesca feel both expectant and uneasy.

While she wished to see her master and gain his approval, she was also worried that he might recognize her and still harbor a grudge against her.

She wouldn't know how to face him if that was the case.

Chapter 1974

Just when Francesca was in deep thought while relaxing in her recliner, her phone vibrated once more.It was Layla trying to reach her.

In a haste, she answered the call.

"Ms.Layla!"

"Are you back in H City already, Francesca?"

When Layla was speaking, Anthony's voice could also be heard rather faintly on the other end of the line.

"Let me talk to her.Give me the phone"

Layla bellowed right away, "Zip it."

"Yes, I just reached,” replied Francesca with a grin.

"I'm at the beach.It's so beautiful here..."

"Have you contacted your master? When's your surgery?”

As always, Layla cut straight to the subject.

"Gordon will sort that out for me.l told him the clues, so I suppose he'd find out soon enough.” "Soon enough? He ought to get it done at once.”

Anxious, Layla added, "I've got wind that you-know-who was released from prison already.” "What?"

Francesca's visage did a one-eighty at the news.

"Wasn't he sentenced to life imprisonment? How did he get out so suddenly?"

"Only God knows how...His organization is still in power, after all? said Layla in a deep voice.

"That person's a highly dangerous lunatic.He'll definitely seek you out to have his revenge.You'd better keep your guard up!"

Francesca was stumped for words upon hearing that.

"Hey, Francesca! Are you listening to me?" questioned Layla ever so nervously.

"The Lindberg family has your back for now, so I'm not that worried.This is a critical juncture, so you make sure to dismiss any thought of escaping again.Don't fret.Continue your daily activities under their protection.When Dr.Felch arrives, you can then undergo the treatment.Your recuperation comes first.Everything else can wait, you hear?"

"Yes, I understand.”

Francesca heaved a sigh.

"Even so, I'm the one responsible for that kid's life..."

"Don't think of it that way.It was an accident; consoled Layla hurriedly.

"Every human in this world makes mistakes.Doctors are humans, too.Wait, no...Technically, it wasn't your mistake anyway.You told him before that the surgery's rate of success was eighty percent.That means there's still a twenty percent probability of failure.You're not at fault just because the surgery failed.Not even the best surgeons could guarantee a hundred percent survival rate"

Francesca covered her forehead.

A stinging pang of sadness overwhelmed her heart.

"If only she hadn't handed me the candy, she wouldn't have been shot.It was all my fault that she got hurt in the first place.I've given her my word to cure her wound, yet I failed in the end.All I could do was watch her breathe her last in front of me.l...That child's so young and adorable.Her smile’s so sweet and innocent.I'm the reason she lost her life."

Panic-stricken, Layla quickly explained, "You really should stop thinking like this.It was all purely an accident.If you weren't injured in the first place, hardly anyone in this world could lay a hand on you.That said, if you ever pitied that lunatic, you yourself would be in great danger.”

"But...He's gotten into that state due to his daughter's death.”

Francesca let out a long sigh before continuing, "Maybe...Maybe I should lend him a hand!"

Flying off the handle, Layla fumed, "Are you nuts? You need to come to your senses! He's always been a killer, and he's been the target of vengeance all along.If you weren't there that day, Candice would still end up getting hurt one way or another.For you to have bumped into her and helped her was simply coincidental.In return, she gifted you candy but then got shot in the process.”

She paused for a bit before adding, "I understand your guilt and your yearning to save her life.Failing the surgery was also an accident, and it has nothing to do with you.That guy turned himself crazy because of Candice's passing and went on to claim thirteen lives at the hospital.You would've been gone with the wind as well had you not been fast enough to escape.”

"Stop..Just stop talking..."

"l insist to!"

Layla wanted Francesca to face the hard truth.

"That kid's really innocent, I know.l, too, feel so sorry for her.But, no matter what, it wasn't your fault, so don't even think about being a saint!"

 

Chapter 1975

Layla went on, "As for that insane fellow, he's already on a killing spree.He's got his mind set on you that you were the root of his daughter's mishap, so he'd never let you off the hook.The likes of him wouldn't be of sound mind.If you run into him somehow, don't waver!"

She stopped to ponder before going on, "If you cave in, you'll be the one who'll suffer in his

stead. What would be of Danrique if you were dead? Ever thought of that? And what should we all do by then? How about the children? As long as that person is alive, he'll always be out for blood—" "Okay, okay! I hear you; interrupted Francesca.She felt that her head was about to crack from all the pain, so she blurted out, "I'm having a migraine right now.I'll talk to you later..."

"All right, I won't disturb you anymore.”

Layla's heart ached for Francesca.

"Get proper rest and remember my words..."

"Okay."

After hanging up the phone, Francesca held her throbbing head as she lay on the recliner, trying to sleep her worries away.

Still, sleep eluded her as the scene where Candice got injured popped right back into her head once more.

That past event fired into her mind all of a sudden like a bullet, making her life a living hell.

As she placed her palm on her head, she struggled to make her way back into the bedroom before retrieving the medical kit and opening it up.

She fished out the acupuncture needle and used it on herself so that she could fall into a deep slumber and escape her messy thoughts.

Little did she know that there had been someone in the villa next to her home peeping at her every move via a pair of binoculars.

Meanwhile, Layla and Anthony just got back home in S Nation.

They were still on pins and needles, dwelling on the matter regarding Francesca.

"Why won't you let me have a word with her?"

Anthony was displeased because he didn't get to speak to Francesca on the phone earlier.

"You son of a—are you a moron? Do you think we're interested in listening to your nonsense at a time like this?"

Layla smacked the back of Anthony's head with all her might as she spoke.She exerted so much force that the latter dropped to the floor from the impact.

Anthony climbed back up to his feet pathetically.

His cheeks flushed red like a tomato, hollering, "Danrique always smacked me like this.And now, you, too, followed suit.I'd rather you guys just beat me to death.”

"I'll throw you out the door if I hear one more word coming out of your bloody mouth”

Layla wasn't in a good mood that day, so naturally, she would throw a fit.

Feeling indignant, Anthony pouted and held back his tears.

He then pulled himself together and cautiously uttered, "I also wished to show her some concern and talk some sense into her..."

"What kind of sense could you possibly offer? You're full of nonsense yourself. Would you ever have anything useful to say?"

A glint of disdain flashed across Layla’s eyes as she looked down on Anthony as usual.

"You!* A wave of anger erupted like a volcano within Anthony's heart.

"Why do you keep treating me this way since I was a kid? Do I really mean nothing to you?" "Enough Save it."

Layla was annoyed.

"Go video call Mr.Lincoln and tell him to get his butt here at once.l need to discuss with him a plan to deal with all this. That maniac isn't a normal being.He's one of those elite assassins, and he's even backed by the world's top assassin organization.If he really got to Francesca, she'd be in grave danger"

“I'm on it"

With that, Anthony hastily went off to do her bidding.

Lighting a cigarette, Layla sat on the balcony and puffed to her heart's content.She then jogged down memory lane to that fateful scene two years ago.Her heart sank to her stomach.

Out of the blue, a bold idea came to her mind.

If 1 tell Danrique everything and let him protect Francesca, wouldn't it be better? However, she perished the thought almost immediately.

That would make sense, for Danrique might seem to be true to Francesca, but nothing was certain when it came to relationships and feelings.

If things were to take a turn for the worst in the future, he would only have gotten dirt on her.I'd rather not take a risk like that..Bah! Forget it.I'll just handle it myself.

At the thought of that, Layla began running a background check ona direct flight to H City.She was contemplating making a trip there personally.

Even so, she had to first wait for that old man to return for a discussion.

In a flash, Anthony rushed back to report to Layla after ending the video call.

"Mr.Lincoln is on his way back right now as we speak.He'll arrive tonight.”

"That old geezer is always so tardy like a tortoise!"

Layla went through the roof again.

"Go book us three tickets to H City.We'd better have another string to our bow!"

“All right”

 

Chapter 1976

Anthony was about to book the plane ticket when the phone rang.

It was Lincoln calling to inform Anthony that there was an explosion at the orphanage.

Shocked to the core, Anthony quickly relayed the news to Layla, and she instantly drove over with him.

Fortunately, none of the children were injured.

Only two of the staff members were wounded, and they had been sent to the hospital for treatment. The local police had come and were investigating the incident.

Later, Layla received more and more calls, informing her that there were also incidents happening at other orphanages such as food poisoning and the intrusion of a psychiatric patient to harm the children.

What was more outrageous was that there was a truck plowing into one of the orphanages.

Upon hearing the news, she was anxious like a cat on hot bricks.

Immediately, Layla, Lincoln, and Anthony parted ways to check on the orphanages and deal with the subsequent matters.

Several hours later, the three of them exchanged information through a video call.

So far, there were no child casualties.

Although the staff members were wounded, their injuries were not life-threatening.

Hence, they felt relieved despite the awful incidents.

Without a trace of uncertainty, Lincoln concluded, "This is an organized and premeditated disruption, aiming to threaten us. think this is related to that lunatic.”

"But how did he know that these orphanages belong to Francesca as well as their addresses?"

Layla queried hurriedly.

"Francesca has been doing a good job keeping them under wraps.He only met us once back then.I don't think he would know all of these"

"Riz Corporation has infiltrated all corners of the world. They have a professional intelligence agency with the ability to surpass the FBI.Therefore, it's not difficult for them to investigate a person.” Lincoln started to analyze the situation logically.

"Luckily, Francesca heeds our advice and has not disclosed her identity and the information regarding the orphanages.it's somewhat difficult for them to check, so there are only four orphanages in S Nation affected, and the others are fine for the time being.”

"So they've only gotten their hands on a part of Francesca's information and there are still some they haven't obtained?" Layla asked.

"Probably"

Lincoln nodded.

"Besides, it's possible that the other party issued a warning to distract us so that we won't focus on intervening in Francesca's matters."

"This also serves as a warning to us.”

Layla's words were laced with solemnity.

"There are no child casualties in the explosion this time, but if he is provoked, we might not be as lucky”

"That's right, so we can't leave.The orphanages need our protection.”

Lincoln had similar thoughts as well.

"Besides, if we go to H City, we might not be of help.”

"What about Francesca then? Are we going to not care about her?" Anthony panicked.

"She has the Lindberg family protecting her now, so she is safe"

Lincoln was clear-headed.

"Even if we go, we can't do anything for her.Moreover, the orphanages are what she cares about the most.If she knows that we insist on meeting up with her while the orphanages are facing trouble, she will blame us."

"But."

"I'll give her a call and ask for her opinion.”

Layla was ready to quit the video call to give Francesca a call when Lincoln stopped her.

"Wait, he said.

"Let's not tell her about this firstJudging from her personality, I'm sure that she will give up on the surgery to rush back here if she knows about the incidents”

"You're right..."

Layla was a bit uneasy.

"What should we do then? She's all alone, and I'm worried for her"

"Call her tomorrow.You need to tell her not to leave the protection of the Lindberg family.As long as she stays put, she'll be fine; Lincoln reminded.

"I've told her about it today, but I'm still feeling unsettled”

Worry was written all over Layla's face.

"With the protection of the Lindberg family, that lunatic can't get near to her.But what if the people of Riz Corporation help him?"

Riz Corporation was a top-notch assassin organization.

The people from the Lindberg family might not be able to fend them off.

Chapter 1977

"You're overthinking.”

Lincoln replied firmly, "Riz Corporation is very powerful, but they won't offend the Lindberg family" "Why did Riz Corporation help that lunatic to check Francesca’s identity then?"

Layla questioned.

"Do they know the Lindberg family is watching over Francesca? Her relationship with Danrique has not been disclosed, and the Lindberg family has always been keeping a low profile.They rarely make any public appearance..."

"One encounter is enough for them to know about it" a logical Lincoln replied.

"Once Riz Corporation know Francesca has the backing of Danrique, they won't intervene in this matter, making it a personal grudge of that lunatic.That lunatic is all alone, so he can't hurt Francesca.What I'm worried about is that she'd escaped again impulsively and showed him mercy due to her guilt for Candice.”

"I need to remind her again.”

Layla was a tad fretful.

"Wait until tomorrow.She's probably asleep now"

Lincoln responded.

"I'm done with the things here. will head back as soon as possible.Tell us about Francesca and Danrique.If he is serious about their relationship, then I think it's good for them to be a couple.” "Nah, how could a person like him know how to love? I think he's just playing around, craving a sense of novelty..."

Anthony quickly replied.

"Besides, he is also dangerous.He crashed into Francesca with his car in M Nation, and she was shot because of him..."

"Oh, really?" Lincoln asked.

"I think so, but I don't know about the details..."

"I know he's really dangerous.He's not someone suitable for Francesca, and she doesn't like him.She's always been thinking about escaping.Danrique’s keeping her under house arrest..."

"All right.Let's talk more about this when we meet."

With that, Lincoln and Layla ended the video call.

Unsettled, Anthony handled the pressing matters on hand and hurriedly rushed back home to see Lincoln.

The former felt there was a need for him to tell Lincoln and Layla about every mistreatment Danrique had inflicted on Francesca.

Besides, he wanted to rush to H City to keep Francesca safe.

Currently, Francesca was fast asleep, not noticing that a figure had sneaked into the villa.

As agile as a monkey, that person jumped over the wall of the yard before he leaped and reached the balcony on the second floor.

Just as he was about to barge into Francesca's room, a cold voice came from downstairs.

"Who's there?"

With that, several beams of bright light shone onto the person as two bodyguards went after him swiftly.

Realizing that he had been discovered before he could take action, he had no choice but to leave. The two bodyguards chased after him instantly, and the female bodyguard, Samantha, quickly rushed into the room to check on Francesca.

Upon seeing that she was sleeping peacefully, the two bodyguards heaved a sigh of relief. Nevertheless, the vigilant bodyguards did not leave the room anymore.

One of them kept careful watch for possible danger on the balcony while the other one stood guard behind the door of the room.

Half an hour later, the subordinates who chased after the suspicious person came back to report to Sloan.

"Sloan, that person escaped.”

"Check the surveillance footage, and see who it was,”

Sloan ordered.

"Understood."

"As for the others, be on full alert and keep your guard up.Protect Ms.Felch"

"Noted."

After making those arrangements, Sloan reported that night's condition to Sean and Gordon.

The three of them exchanged information through a voice call.

Gordon was puzzled when he got to know of the incident.

"This is weird. Who on earth wanted to attack Ms.Felch? Could it be someone sent by Frank or the three great families?"

"If it was them, they wouldn't just send one person.”

Sean was calm and collected.

"Was it Ms.Felch's enemy?”

"How could Ms.Felch have any enemies?"

Gordon found it odd.

"She's just a doctor, and her identity has always been well-concealed.”

"Right..."

"Sloan, keep Ms.Felch safe.I'll send a few people there,” Sean said.

"Okay."

After hanging up the phone, Sloan arranged for more people to scan the surroundings of the villa, ensuring their defense was foolproof.

Chapter 1978

Francesca slept soundly, utterly oblivious to what had happened the previous night.She fell into a daze when she saw Heidi and Samantha in the room by the time she woke up the next morning. Heidi immediately explained, "Ms.Felch, someone attempted to intrude into your room last night but was discovered by Sloan in time.We are afraid something bad might happen to you, so we decided to stand guard in your room.We hope we did not interrupt your rest time"

"That's all right..."

Francesca had yet to wrap her mind around the whole incident.

"Are you telling me that someone barged into my room? Who is that?"

"Judging from his silhouette, the culprit appears to be a man.We are still investigating for further details.Sloan ordered his men to chase after the culprit at once but to no avail.”

Francesca frowned upon hearing those words.

Could it be that person? Knock! Knock!

At that moment, someone knocked on the door.

Kerrie, leading the maid, entered to help Francesca get washed up and dressed.

As Heidi and Samantha exited the room, Francesca expressed her gratitude and reminded them to rest well.

After Francesca finished washing up, she had her breakfast on the balcony.

By accident, she found a piece of candy underneath the recliner.She picked up the candy and saw the familiar wrapping.Her face darkened instantaneously as memories from two years ago flooded her mind.

Francesca and Layla had just gotten off the plane at the airport in Tayhaven and were heading toward the exit.

Suddenly, they saw a little girl crying outside the restroom.

The little girl had a cute appearance.

As a result of the hysterical cry, her face flushed, and she experienced difficulty breathing, seemingly unable to catch her breath.

Francesca immediately gave the child the appropriate medication.

After the little girl's condition stabilized, Francesca asked, "Hello, why are you here alone? Where are your daddy and mommy?"

"I don't have a mommy.Daddy is bringing me home, but I went to the restroom earlier and can't find him now.Boohoo..."

The little girl seemed to be slightly afraid as her petite body trembled.

"Don't be scared.I'll bring you to search for your daddy.”

Francesca was planning to bring the little girl to the airport staff.

They've only taken a few steps when a man's voice suddenly rang from behind them.

"Candice!"

"Daddy! The little girl ran in that man’s direction in excitement.He lifted the little girl and carried her with one hand while staring at Francesca cautiously.Francescas first impression when she saw that man was that his eyes were filled with intense malice.

"Daddy, I had an asthma attack earlier, and this lady saved me.She was even going to help me look for you"

Candice hurriedly explained.

"Is that so?"

The murderous intent in that man's eyes gradually faded.He left the scene with his daughter after he thanked Francesca.

"He's so weird."

Francesca gazed at his leaving figure from behind, thinking that he was a peculiar man.

On the other hand, the little girl, Candice, was very cute and obedient.She waved her hand at Francesca while regarding Francesca with a pair of large, innocent eyes and a sincere look.

Layla said in an undertone, "This man is very dangerous.We must stay away from him." "Dangerous?"

Francesca was curious.

"That's right.”

Layla wore a solemn expression.

"If I am not mistaken, judging by his malevolent aura and heightened senses, he should be a professional assassin”

"Why would a professional assassin have such an adorable child?"

Francesca knitted her brows.

"Is that little girl really his child? What if he kidnapped her?"

"The child is reliant on him and shows affection toward him.Moreover, he appears to care for the girl genuinely, and he is protective of the girl.l suppose they are biologically related..”

Layla sighed.

"An outlaw like him should not have children.Sooner or later, something unfortunate will befall the little girl if she continues to follow him around.”

"Perhaps he will quit his unlawful occupation for the child"

Francesca could not bear to imagine Candice's fate.

"That occupation is like a bottomless abyss.Once he meddles in the business, there's no turning back.Did you notice how vigilant he behaved just now? I think someone may be following him; Layla elaborated.

"I hope the little girl will stay unharmed.”

Francesca prayed for Candice’s safety.

"We can only hope so."

Chapter 1979

Francesca and Layla exited the airport and were about to get into a cab.

At that moment, a childish voice sounded.

"Hello!"

Francesca turned around and saw Candice sitting obediently on a stone block with a rag doll in her arms

"Hello, we meet again!"

Francesca greeted the little girl.

"My name is Candice.What about yours?"

Candice beamed at her.

“I'm Francesca Felch."

Francesca returned the smile.

"Where's your daddy?"

"Daddy went to drive the car here.He told me to wait for him here? Candice replied obediently.Francesca exchanged glances with Layla as they sensed something was wrong.If Candice’s father had really gone to drive the car over, he should have brought Candice along. Moreover, Candice was waiting beside the taxi passageway, which prohibited the entry of private vehicles.

They wondered why he left Candice there to wait for him and if he was in trouble.

"The car is here.Let's go"

Layla did not wish to invite trouble to themselves, so she dragged Francesca along to get in the cab. "Are you leaving, Francesca?"

Candice gazed at Francesca longingly.

"Yes."

Francesca pitied Candice as she gazed at the latter sitting alone on the stone block.

"Candice, will you feel scared waiting for your daddy here by yourself?"

Candice nodded.Her eyes reddened the next second.

Francesca's heart ached slightly when she saw Candice's pitiable look, so she decided to stay. "Don't be afraid.I'll be here to accompany you."

"Really? Thank you, Francesca"

Candice was overjoyed.She hurriedly jogged forward and held Francesca's hand.

"Francesca!"

Layla tried to persuade Francesca otherwise.

"It's all right, Ms.Layla.I'm just going to keep this little girl company for a little while.We'll get into the cab and leave as soon as her father returns”

Francesca whispered.

Layla felt helpless.She had no other choice but to wait together.

Candice introduced her rag doll to Francesca and told Francesca she had some delicious candy, but the candy was kept in her father's pocket.She expressed her desire to share the candy with Francesca when her father returned to pick her up.

Francesca thanked her cheerily.

At the sight of Candice’s cascading hair which was drenched in sweat, Francesca crouched down to braid the little girl's hair and yanked off the ribbon on her own clothes to tie the little girl's hair. Candice took out a small mirror to examine the braids.

Then, a bright and charming smile spread across her face.She had not braided her hair ever since she left her home.

Francesca and Candice continued to chat happily.

Meanwhile, Layla scanned her surroundings but failed to spot Candice's father anywhere.

Nothing extraordinary happened near the crowded entrance of the airport, yet she felt a sense of foreboding.

Just then, a voice rang out.

"Candice!"

"Daddy!"

Candice turned around and saw her father advancing hastily in her direction.She said to Francesca happily, "Francesca, my daddy is back!"

"That's great.”

Francesca stood up and said to that man solemnly, "Mister, she's still very young.Please do not leave her alone because it is very dangerous.”

He merely glanced at her in silence before grabbing Candice's hand and leaving with her.

"You..."

Francesca was about to mention something else, but she noticed something was odd about that man’s right arm

Although he tucked his hand in the pocket in an attempt to conceal his condition, the fresh blood slowly oozing through the fabric had exposed his injuries.

"Don't be nosy.Let's go!"

Layla noticed the wound as well and quickly dragged Francesca away.

At that moment, Francesca realized the presence of a few men in black outfits wearing black face masks among the crowd.

They were hurrying in Candice's father's direction with one hand hidden in their sleeves.She turned around, wanting to warn him.

Right then, Candice suddenly broke free from holding her father's hand.She turned on her heels and ran toward Francesca while holding some candy.

"Francesca, this is for you!"

"Candice..."

He hastily stepped forward to pull Candice back, but he was too late.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Gunshots rang all of a sudden.

All the shots were aimed at Candice's father.

Candice, the pitiful little girl, accidentally took a shot in her father's stead.Her petite figure fell to the floor as she lay in a pool of blood.

Chapter 1980

"Candice!"

The man went on a killing spree while in a crazed state, fending off the men in black alone. Francesca immediately rushed over to hold Candice.

When she realized there was still hope for the child, she stopped the bleeding and gave Candice first-aid right away.

When the man finished off all of the men in black who were after him, he held Francesca at gunpoint, intending for her to keep Candice company on the way to the afterworld.

Just when Layla was about to retaliate, Francesca interrupted, "There's still hope to save Candice.I'm a doctor, so I'm confident about saving her.We need to go to the hospital now."

"Is that true?”

The man had assumed that Candice was beyond saving, but Francesca’s words reignited a spark of hope within him.

Immediately hailing a taxi, he and Francesca rushed Candice to the hospital.

After that, Francesca operated on Candice.

Candice had lost a lot of blood, and she had a rare blood type that the hospital had not stocked up on, so Layla had to usher the hospital staff to arrange for some to be delivered.

All the while, the man waited around inside the operating room and even pointed a gun at the medical superintendent, threatening to kill everybody, including Francesca, if something happened to Candice.

The operation should have gone smoothly until Francesca discovered that not only did Candice have asthma but she had also had her heart operated on.

The gunshot had triggered a heart attack, so Candice was in critical condition.

Moreover, the blood wasn't delivered on time.

Coupled with various other reasons, the operation was a failure.

In the end, Francesca couldn't save Candice.

Before Candice drew her last breath, she held onto the candy that she had intended to give to Francesca.

It wasn't until her heart stopped that she released her grip, and the candy dropped onto the floor. At that moment, Francesca broke down.

The child's father held Francesca while interrogating her in a frenzy, "Didn't you say you can save Candice? Didn't you promise she would be all right? Why didn't the operation work? Why? She wouldn't have been shot in the first place if she wasn't trying to deliver you the candy.The operation wouldn't have failed if you truly were an exceptional doctor.This is all because of you! It's your fault!”

Francesca was unable to refute him, so she could only endure his rage in passive silence.

After that, the man went on a rampage and began slaughtering the doctors and nurses in the operating room.He even attempted to kill Francesca so that she could keep Candice company on the way to the afterworld.

However, Layla injured his arm and fled the scene alongside Francesca.

The hospital staff had called the police, but the man had managed to take thirteen lives before the police could arrive.

After that, he was subdued by the police, arrested, and sent to jail.

Thus, it was Francesca who had organized Candice's funeral.

After she finished handling everything, she even visited the man in the jail.

She came to know that his name was Chrono and that he was the world's top assassin who hailed from Rodunst.

Chrono had led the life of a wanderer but had, by then, wished to go into hiding and live in seclusion alongside Candice.

However, his enemies weren't willing to let him off the hook.

Therefore, they tracked him down wherever he went, and he had been trying to escape from them while protecting Candice.

When they were at the airport, he killed two people who were tracking him down when Candice went to the restroom.

Then, he brought her away in haste, only to bump into the same bunch of people at the exit.

Not wanting to drag Candice into the ensuing mess, he told her to wait on a stone block.

He returned in search of her after killing off the men discreetly, only to bump into Francesca again. All he wanted was to leave with Candice as soon as possible, but Candice got the idea of sharing her candy with Francesca, so she wrenched herself from his arms to run back to Francesca.

At that moment, Chrono’s enemies caught up and fired their guns at him, leading to the tragedy. Feeling guilty, Francesca apologized while sitting opposite him behind the glass panel in the prison. Candice might not have suffered such a fate if she hadn't tried to give me some candy.

Moreover, she couldn't figure out the reason the operation failed when she was certain she could save Candice.

Although she wished to know what kind of operation Candice had undergone for her heart, she had missed out on the opportunity to do so.

She had gone to the police station to retrieve Candice's body after the incident, but the police had already cremated her body.

Thus, she could only hold the funeral with Candice's ashes before handing the address and information of her grave to Chrono at the jail.