Ch. 2011..2020

Chapter 2011

Francesca's heart was about to jump out of her chest.

With widened eyes, she uttered, "You-"

Before she could say anything more, Danrique sealed her lips with his.

The kiss started off passionately but soon turned into a sweet and gentle one.

As Francesca melted into the kiss, her breathing started to quicken

However, Danrique did not take it further.

When he thought of the severe injury on the back of her head, he tore away from her.

Wiping her lips, he said softly, "Go to sleep now" With that, he got up to leave.

"Where are you going?”

"To the study room"

Without even turning back, Danrique exited the room.He was already starting to feel aroused.If he stayed, he would feel uncomfortable trying to suppress himself.

After all, he couldn't touch her at this time.

Watching his leaving figure, Francesca felt dejected.He probably left because he finds me ugly with my bald head.

This can't do.I have to come up with a medicine that helps speedy hair growth so I can grow my hair back soon! As her mind wandered, she slowly fell asleep.

That night, Danrique was in her dreams.He embraced her and kissed her, and his hot breath felt as vivid as ever.

In return, she clung to him, biting his ears and shoulders like a naughty little kitten.

When Francesca woke up, her face was flushed with embarrassment.

As she was unprepared before, she was always against the idea of getting married.

Now, she was certain that she was ready for it.It was not for the sake of getting money or allowing Dr.Felch to donate whenever he wanted to.It was because she had truly fallen in love with him. Perhaps, her feelings had long been hiding in the deepest part of her heart.

Now that she was slowly healing, those beautiful memories gradually surfaced in her mind and triggered an avalanche of emotions.

Regardless of the reason, she badly wanted to count the money he had.

Just the thought of it made her ecstatic.She couldn't wait to get married and live a happy life with Danrique.

Would a hundred computers be enough? If we exchanged them for money, would the money fill up the entire house? Oh, right. can ask for help from Ms.Layla, Mr.Lincoln, and Anthony. We'll be one family in the future, so I have to introduce them to Danrique soon.

There's Dr.Felch, too.

When I recover fully, Il pick a date and bring Danrique to Mount Phoenix.I'll apologize to Dr.Felch sincerely and ask for his forgiveness. hope he'll agree to be the witness to our wedding.

With that, Francesca started to plan the wedding in her head.

Our wedding should be held in Chanaean style here in Chanaea.lt would be great if we have it in H City.

Maybe we can have another ceremony in Xendale, too.

I will have my wedding photoshoot by the beach and another in Xendale if I want. And I'm going to let the children in the orphanage attend the wedding and be my flower girls and flower boys.

The scene of thousands of children there would be fantastic! The children will be delighted, too.They always called me Aunt Francesca before, and now, they'll have an Uncle Danrique.

With a dad protecting them, they won't have to be afraid anymore.

Oh, should we have children? it hurts to give birth, though.Plus, ! can't give birth to a baby with this weak body of mine.My life could be threatened.

But if I don't give birth, the Lindberg family will be left with no offspring.

Danrique wouldn't be happy about it, would he? At that, Francesca started to worry.

On second thought, she realized she would die before she reached her thirties anyway.I guess Ican die after I give birth to a child.

At least I can leave Danrique a companion.

Maybe the child can help protect Danrique in my place when he or she grows up! Okay, that's it.I'm going to bear Danrique a child.

Francesca felt utterly determined at that moment.

When she imagined her life in the coming future, her mind was filled with sweet and happy scenes.

 

Chapter 2012

When Francesca woke up early the following day, the sunlight had already penetrated through the floor-to-ceiling window and thin curtains, warming the room slightly.

Rubbing her eyes, Francesca glanced at the clock on the wall.She did not expect to have slept so long, for it was already nine o'clock.

"Kerrie!"

Francesca called out.

Immediately, Kerrie and two other maids came inside to help her wash up.

A moment later, Helen also entered to check on her wounds.

Although Francesca did not keep her eyes off the doorway, there was no sight of Danrique. Perhaps it was because they just became a couple, for Francesca seemed like a teenager in love. All she could think about was Danrique, wishing for him to be there when she woke up. Therefore, she was disappointed when she did not see him.

"Ms.Felch, would you like to take breakfast in your room or downstairs?" Kerrie asked politely. "Where is Danrique?” Francesca could not help but ask.

"Mr.Lindberg went out early in the morning" Kerrie answered.

"He told us to take good care of you before leaving"

"Where did he go? Did he say when would he be coming back?" Francesca continued to ask. "Uhm..." Kerrie shook her head.

"He didn't mention anything about it."

“All right.”

Although Francesca felt upset, she knew she had to be understanding as Danrique might have something to settle.

"Ms.Felch, your wounds are recovering well.As a suggestion, you can go downstairs to sunbathe and take in some fresh air.It would be beneficial for your health” Helen suggested.

"All right” Francesca answered.

"I'll go to the garden to have my breakfast.”

"Sure.I'll arrange for it right now.”

The weather that day was just right.It was around twenty or so degrees, and it was rather pleasant. It was not windy in the morning, so Francesca felt very relaxed as she sunbath and listened to the waves while taking her breakfast in the garden.

The maid carried a tray of scrumptious food to her where all the dishes were her favorite.

Since Francesca's physique was still relatively weak, she could not move around as she liked.It was especially the case for her head and neck, which could only remain stiff; as a result, she could only lie on the recliner all the time.

When the maid wanted to feed her breakfast, she rejected, "It's fine.l can eat it myself"

She disliked being waited on like that.

Besides, as a doctor, she knew the pain was just a feeling.She could still move around, but her body was stiff because the brain had been sending pain signals to the body parts affected.

If she was determined enough, she could control her brain and thus her body.

Francesca tried to eat breakfast on her own.

Although her movements were clumsy, it was still a successful attempt.

Everyone around her was impressed by her determination.

Standing far away, Helen could not help but praise, "Ms.Felch isn't any ordinary person.”

"I heard she's a doctor too’ her assistant whispered.

“I knew that when I was in M Nation.”

Helen did not place it to heart.

"Rumors had it that she had cured Mr.Lindberg's snake venom.Although traditional medicine is great at flushing poisons, it could not be compared to modern medicine in other aspects such as surgery.”

"Most importantly, no one can be compared to Dr.Wright in medical skills? her assistant exclaimed. "Don't go overboard.”

Helen furrowed her eyebrows in contempt.

"Dr.Felch's medical skills are way better than mine.Even if we do not consider his modern medical knowledge, his surgical skills are top- notch too."

"Besides Dr.Felch—"

"There's still Francesco," Helen muttered.

"Let's forget about Dr.Felch.He's so old, after all.lt doesn't make sense to compare myself to him.If I have a chance, though, I would love to meet with Francesco and see what kind of person she is! She's always so mysterious.”

"Francesco's medical skills are superb, though.Judging from that, I think she isn't young anymore.” "I heard she Is skilled in modern and traditional medicine, a rare well- rounded genius in the medical field. hope there's a chance for me to challenge her.”

"You're still young.Perhaps you could surpass Francesco once you finish polishing your skills this year"

"Hopefully!"

 

Chapter 2013

Francesca had been holed up in the house for the entire day, causing her to feel extremely bored.She could not do anything but lie down to sleep, even needing people to serve her food. Although she wanted to stroll on the beach, two medical staff and a bunch of maids would follow behind despite it being a private beach.

Therefore, she decided against the thought of going there.

Thankfully, time flew by, and it was already late evening.

Francesca was reading a medical book while lying on the sofa, glancing at the wall clock from time to time.

Although it was already nine o'clock, Danrique was still not back.

Plus, he did not send her a text message or give her a phone call for the entire day. What's there in H City for him to busy himself until now? Did he perhaps return to Erihal? While she was thinking of that, footsteps could be heard in the distance, followed by the maids’ greetings.

"Mr.Lindberg is back!"

“Mhm."

Danrique had become more approachable lately and began to respond to the maids’ greetings. Back then, he was always aloof and emitting a cold aura, causing everyone to be afraid of him. Recently, the maids had secretly discussed how approachable he had become.

When Francesca heard the noise outside, she quickly placed her bock down and pretended to sleep. When Danrique pushed open the door, he took off his jacket and flung it to the bed.

Then, he started to unbutton his shirt while approaching Francesca.

Francesca felt nervous when she heard the footsteps getting nearer and nearer.

While hugging the pillow, she continued to fake sleep.

With her eyes closed, she could feel his presence as he sat beside her and his warm palm caressing her cheek.She felt a bit nervous when she thought of the kiss last night.

Would he...

Before she could respond, Danrique leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead before moving down her eyes.

Francesca squeezed her eyes shut and held her breath, not daring to move.She had already decided not to push him away if he were to continue.

However, Danrique stopped short when he came to her ears.

Biting her earlobes, he said, "Quit pretending to sleep!"

After getting exposed, Francesca opened her eyes with a blushing face.

"How do you know I was not asleep?”

"How can you fool me with the tactic of yours?"

Danrique pinched her cheeks, her gaze was filled with adoration.

"What did you do today?"

Francesca snuggled into his embrace.

Without her noticing it, her voice had softened when it came to him.

"I settled some matters”

Danrique replied without going into the details.

"I'll need to fly to M Nation first thing in the morning."

"Huh?"

Francesca was taken aback.

"Why?"

She did not expect him to leave so soon when they had just gotten into a relationship.

"l have some matters to attend to"

Danrique answered without thinking.

"I have placed it aside long enough, so I must return immediately”

"Okay, then.”

Francesca figured it was reasonable.

"Go ahead."

"All right.Good girl!"

Danrique kissed her forehead before he got up and left.

"Where are you going?" she blurted out.

"Why? Do you want me to stay?"

Danrique shot a half-smile at her.

"No way!"

Francesca quickly denied it with a blushing face.

"I'm just asking”

"I'm going to the study room.You should get some sleep.I'll see you at breakfast tomorrow.” Danrique left after changing his clothes.

“Okay”

Francesca felt disappointed when looking at his leaving figure.He has been suddenly so busy these past two days, and he even needs to go to M Nation tomorrow.

Why do I feel like he's not as affectionate as before? He always hugged me to sleep no matter how tired he was back then.

However, he's sleeping in the guest room now.

Francesca picked up her phone and wanted to search for some dating tips.

At that moment, Layla suddenly called her.

"Ms.Layla!"

Francesca greeted after picking up the call.

"Oh, my dear girl! You've finally picked up! I was getting anxious.”

"Didn't Danrique already send someone to tell you that I'm fine? That's why I thought of getting in touch with you when my injuries get better.”

"They did.However, I will only feel at ease when I get to talk to you" Layla answered anxiously.

"Are you okay? How are you feeling? Is the surgery successful?"

 

Chapter 2014

"It was pretty successful.Otherwise, I wouldn't be talking to you right now." Francesca chuckled. "Are things well on your side? I saw the text where you mentioned that things are fine at the orphanage, and Lacy is no longer in danger, right?"

"Yes," Layla replied, "I spoke to you the other day, and I told you not to head outside.However, you avoided the subject and kept asking me about the orphanage, so I sensed that something was amiss.Later, I heard gunshots, and the call was cut off.l couldn't contact you again, so I knew something bad had happened.l was really anxious at that time, and I thought of contacting Danrique to save you and getting Mr.Lincoln to contact the police of H City..."

Layla continued, "However, Mr.Lincoln reminded me that you've always been an intelligent and cautious person.Thus, you couldn't have been duped by Chrono so easily, unless you were threatened by him.However, he doesn't have a hold on you apart from the orphanage.You were far away from Chrono, so he couldn't use something else to manipulate you unless he had planted a bomb inside the orphanage..Therefore, we spent two continuous nights scouring the orphanage in order to locate the bomb, so that you wouldn't be threatened by Chrono..."

Layla got emotional as she talked about what had occurred on that day.

"However, the bomb had been hidden in a secure location, and we couldn't find it.Mr.Lincoln contacted the police, and they helped us to look for it. After a while, we managed to find it.I contacted you immediately, but no one answered.Later, a bodyguard from the Lindberg residence phoned me.l was surprised and also rather emotional. Although your identity is exposed, at least, the issue is finally settled...”

She paused, then added, "Now, Lacy's no longer in critical condition and will remain in the hospital for observation.The police are keeping an eye on the orphanage and have increased the number of patrols around the area.We're very safe, so you don't have to worry about us."

"Good to know that you're okay." Francesca frowned.

"Chrono's escaped, but he was bitten by Sam, so he can't do anything drastic for a while Still, if he survives, I'm afraid he wouldn't let me go.Currently, I'm under the protection of the Lindberg family.Since he can't get close to me, I fear he might target the orphanage again”

"We've beefed up our security since this incident? Layla assured her, "Mr.Lincoln has recruited a few more bodyguards.They will work two shifts every day and take turns to protect the children.Don't worry"

"Okay." Francesca nodded.

"Once I've recovered, I'll pay you a visit.If anything happens, you must tell me"

"Understood,"

Layla replied, "Now, I have something to discuss with you"

"shoot."

"Earlier, Mr.Lincoln and I believed that the people of Riz Corporation wouldn't interfere in matters between you and Chrono.After all, you have Danrique behind your back.However, after this incident, we aren't so sure about that now."

She continued, "If he could enter the orphanage undetected and plant a bomb there, he must be a top assassin.Chrono's accomplice must also be from Riz Corporation.At this point, we don't know if he only has one accomplice or more.Anyhow, the problem is even more complicated than we thought.Mr.Lincoln is also trying to contact Darcel Nacht, the head of Riz Corporation, to see if he can negotiate with him and ask the organization to stop meddling in this affair."

"This is quite tricky"

Francesca said hastily, "The head of Riz Corporation is a domineering fellow and never interacts with the outside world.Nobody has been able to contact him, either.Even if we do, he's not an easy person to negotiate with.Hence, I think it's best that Mr.Lincoln doesn't waste his effort on him" "We'll just give it a try"

Layla said, "Francesca, it's great news that your surgery is successful. Now, you must focus on getting a proper recovery.Once you've recovered, nobody can harm you."

"I know, Ms.Layla.."

"We won't interfere in your marriage to Danrique.We'll always support you, regardless of your decision.Once you've made a decision, just let us know.”

"Okay.Thank you, Ms.Layla..."

 

Chapter 2015

After hanging up, Francesca pondered over what Layla had said.If Riz Corporation helps Chrono to get his revenge, ! won't be able to escape their clutches...

Riz Corporation was a powerful organization and had branches in every country.lt employed numerous assassins, and every one of them was highly skilled and possessed all sorts of abilities. Francesca already had a hard time dealing with Chrono.If the latter had more accomplices, she would be in big trouble.

Moreover, she had to deal with him alone, for she could not bring harm to Layla and the orphans. As she thought of that, Francesca began to feel glum.She had been so engrossed in spending time with Danrique that she had forgotten about such an important issue.

Therefore, she must recover quickly and return to S Nation.

That night, Francesca did not have a peaceful slumber.She kept having nightmares.

When she woke up the next morning, she was drenched in sweat.She looked out of the window and realized that it was still somewhat dark outside.

In fact, it was hardly seven o'clock.

Nevertheless, Francesca could not fall asleep again.

Danrique had to leave that morning, so she decided to get up and accompany him for breakfast. As she was about to get out of bed, Kerrie's soft voice resounded from outside the room. "Ms.Felch, are you awake?"

"Yes, come in," Francesca answered.

Kerrie brought two maids with her to assist Francesca with washing up and getting dressed.

After that, they helped her down the stairs to have breakfast.

Danrique was already seated in the dining room, and a cup of black coffee was placed in front of him.

Danrique was holding a newspaper in his hands, but he was answering a phone call via a bluetooth earpiece and saying something in Erihalean.

Francesca did not understand it and asked Kerrie, "What is he talking about?"

"I think it's a phone call from Mr.President.He's asking when Mr.Lindberg would head back.Mr.Lindberg said he would head to M Nation first..."

Kerrie translated the words.

ihseer!

Francesca did not say much, but deep down, she knew Danrique had gotten himself involved in a major crisis.

Francesca came to the dining room.

Danrique ended the call and got up to adjust Francesca's seat for her.He placed a napkin on her lap and asked tenderly, "Did you sleep well last night?"

"It was fine"

Francesca noticed the passport and documents beside his hand.

A car was already waiting for him outside, and the subordinates were busy loading the car with luggage.

Obviously, Danrique was about to leave.

"What do you want to eat?"

Danrique did not seem to be in a hurry, and he even brought some food for Francesca.

"Are you going to leave?"

Francesca wished he would stay.

"It's all right.I'll have breakfast with you.”

Danrique brought her a glass of milk.

"While I'm away, take good care of yourself.Once I've settled my matters, I'll come back to pick you up, and we'll return to Erihal together.”

"Okay"

Francesca figured that he would only be preoccupied for a few days and would not take too long. Thus, she said in an understanding manner, "They are waiting for you.Go."

"Don't you miss me?" Danrique pinched her cheek.

"What's there to miss?"

Francesca replied stubbornly, "It's not like you aren't coming back.”

"You've got a point.”

Danrique set his cutlery down and got up to put on his coat.

"I'll get going now"

"All right.”

Francesca looked at him longingly.

Sean came over to take Danrique's documents and phone.

After bidding farewell to Francesca, he went out with Danrique.

Kerrie wanted to help Francesca up, but the latter refused her assistance.

She did not like goodbyes, so she decided to let Danrique leave quietly.

Before Danrique got into his car, he turned around and stared at Francesca through the glass window.He had assumed she would send him off and kiss him goodbye or something, but she did not do anything.He felt disappointed, so he lowered his head and got into his car silently.

When the car cruised away, Danrique even stared at the rear view mirror.Still, Francesca was sitting in the dining room and enjoying her breakfast, seemingly unaffected by his departure.Danrique was a bit upset and sighed.

"What a heartless woman!"

"Haha..." Sean laughed.

"I can tell Ms.Felch doesn't want you to leave, but she's probably inexperienced and has a different way of expressing her feelings.”

Danrique heaved a long sigh.He felt that Francesca had much more to learn about dating and romance than he did.

She was completely inexperienced.

 

Chapter 2016 Becoming Successful

When Francesca heard the car outside, she could not help but turn to look. The woman had to slowly move her entire body since she could not turn her neck because of the severe injury. Hence, she missed Danrique’s car. The vehicle was already gone when she finally managed to turn around.

At that point, Francesca was filled with utter regret because she did not get to kiss the man goodbye or even hug him. The two had parted without a proper farewell.

Why did I have to be so proud? It's too late for me to regret it now. Frances felt terrible when she thought about the way she acted.

"Don’t worry, Ms. Felch. Mr. Lindberg will be back very soon.” Having served Francesca for so long, Kerrie could immediately tell what was going through the woman's mind.

“I don't care when he'll be back. I'm better off without him anyway.” Francesca continued with her pretense.

"Aren“t you going to miss Mr. Lindberg?” inquired Kerrie with a smile.

"Of course not!” Instead of eating her oatmeal, Francesca stirred it so much that she nearly spilled all of it.

"Okay, let's forget about him and focus on your recovery,” suggested Kerrie with another smile. “You should try this soup, Ms. Felch. It's delicious!”

“Sure.”

In the following days, Francesca wanted to recuperate in peace, so she came up with an excuse to send Helen and the others away while promising to keep paying them as usual.

Helen was a respectable physician. Even though she loved money, she would not accept it for doing nothing.

Hence, the woman told Gordon that she only needed to be paid for the services rendered. No more, no less.

Having confirmed Francesca was okay with that, Gordon paid Helen her due and sent her and the others to the airport.

After the medical team left, Francesca then had people ready the clinic and some medicinal herbs for her because she wished to treat herself.

Besides getting herself to recover sooner, the woman needed to prepare an ointment that could help her hair grow back quickly since she did not intend on staying bald.

Confident that Francesca’s formula would become an instant worldwide hit, Kerrie excitedly suggested that the woman had it patented and marketed for sale. After all, most people in this modern age have hair loss issues because they think too much. This invention couldn't be timelier! However, Francesca did not want her simple formula to go public or appear on the market. In her opinion, those who went bald should stay that way so people could tell how smart they were. After letting out a chuckle, Kerrie commented on how unique Francesca’s way of thinking was and mused that that was probably what made her a genius.

Francesca did not respond to the woman since she simply wanted to stay out of the spotlight, especially when Chrono and Riz Corporation were keeping a close eye on her. I better keep a low profile and focus on my recovery.

Just like that, ten days passed in a flash.

Even though Francesca's wound was almost completely healed, she dared not use the hair growth formula just yet. Otherwise, the injured spot would remain bald.

The time Kerrie spent with Francesca had taught her a lot.

Despite her poor aptitude and slow comprehension, Kerrie eventually became capable enough to help Francesca.

In the beginning, she had no idea what Francesca was talking about when the woman threw scientific names of medicinal herbs at her. Even after Francesca had taught her the names, Kerrie just could not seem to remember them.

Francesca got so annoyed that she scolded Kerrie and warned that the woman would remain a nurse with such performance.

All Kerrie could do then was apologize profusely.

Francesca, too, apologized when she realized that she had been too hard on the nurse, who reminded her of her old self.

Unlike Kerrie, Francesca could absorb almost all the knowledge her mentor had to pass down. However, there were still times when she would fail to comprehend her mentors teachings, warranting her a harsh scolding much like the one she had given Kerrie.

Francesca felt terrible then, but after she became a mentor herself, she realized that her teacher simply wanted her to become successful

Chapter 2017 The Suspicious Trip

Even after ten days, Danrique still had not returned. The man seemed quite busy. At first, he would call Francesca every day because he missed her, even though it was only for a few minutes.

After a while, Danrique just stopped calling. Francesca forced herself to ignore the man, but that only lasted for two days before she started sending him messages.

The woman tried to convince herself that Danrique only ignored her messages because he was busy dealing with urgent matters and that he would contact her as soon as he had the time.

However, she still had not heard from the man even after another two days. That was when Francesca began to get anxious. Worried that something might have happened to Danrique, she reached out to Gordon to confirm the situation.

Gordon then assured Francesca that Danrique was busy but fine and that the man would contact her in a few days. Danrique also wanted Gordon to remind the woman to stop worrying about him and focus on her recovery instead.

Francesca immediately grew angry when she heard all that, so she had Gordon ask Danrique why the man had time to contact his subordinate but not her.

“If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave, Ms. Felch.” Gordon was not a sensitive man, so he had no idea that Francesca was upset.

“Sure. You may leave,” responded Francesca.

However, the woman would call for Gordon once again before long. Bored, Francesca was going through the news while lying on the sofa when she came across an article about Hazel visiting a branch of Lindberg Corporation in Summerbank, M Nation.

Hazel kept a high profile by having the media take photos of her attending local banquets and meeting with local politicians and wealthy businessmen. The press even hailed her as a capable businesswoman of the new generation and someone worthy of Danrique.

Francesca became upset again after seeing the news, so she immediately summoned Gordon back to ask if the article was true.

As a straightforward person, Gordon did not think twice before informing Francesca that Hazel had indeed gone to Summerbank to visit the branch and that the press was responsible for the comment on Hazel's compatibility with Danrique.

“So Danrique’s in Summerbank too?” questioned Francesca, who was already boiling with anger. "Yes," replied Gordon with a nod almost immediately.

With a stony expression, Francesca instantly threw her tablet out the window and into the swimming pool without another word. The device made a splashing sound when it plunged into the body of water.

“Uh...” Gordon was stunned when he finally realized that Francesca was mad, so he quickly added, “You mustn't misunderstand, Ms. Felch. Even though Mr. Lindberg and Ms. Atkinson arrived in Summerbank on the same day, it wasn't planned.”

“They arrived in Summerbank on the same day?” At that point, Francesca got even more upset. “I never should've trusted him. I thought he went there for work, but it turns out that he only did it for Hazel."

“No, no, that's not it.”

"Shut up and get out!” Furious, Francesca refused to listen to anyone.

The woman was convinced that Danrique and Hazel were dating in Summerbank, and the more she thought about it, the angrier she got.

Francesca decided to call Danrique. The call went through but was outright declined, which served only to add fuel to the fire. Is that b*stard refusing to answer my call because he’s with Hazel now? The woman then texted Danrique: Return my call immediately!

Francesca was so furious that she could not wait for another second longer.

Before long, Danrique did as requested. “What's wrong? Did something happen?” inquired the man in an anxious tone because he was worried.

"Are you with Hazel now?” questioned Francesca straightforwardly.

Danrique kept quiet in response as if wondering why the woman would throw such a question at him.

Francesca almost second-guessed herself and was about to mention the news article when she suddenly heard the sweet voice of a woman

“Danrique, I'm done changing. Let's go!”

 

Chapter 2018 Back To S Nation

That's Hazel's voice! Francesca grew so enraged that her hand began to shake as she clenched her phone. Like a bomb, the woman was ready to explode. “Danrique Lindberg!”

The shout was so loud that it almost deafened Danrique. With his eyebrows furrowed, the man was about to explain himself when he was distracted by a noise outside.

"You better have a good explanation for that. Otherwise, I'l—" Before Francesca could finish her sentence, the call ended.

The woman stared at her phone with widened eyes because she could not believe what had just happened. Did he just hang up on me? At a moment like this? This means he must be guilty of seeing that woman!

Francesca's heart hurt even more when she thought about how Danrique had hugged and kissed her before leaving. The man had even proposed to her romantically.

Suddenly, everything seemed like a big fat joke to her. How naive and stupid can I be? Why did I believe his words?

When Francesca felt as though she was on the brink of losing her mind, she felt a sharp pain from the wound behind her head.

The woman then reminded herself to stay calm as she leaned back on the sofa while holding her head.

Francesca tried to convince herself that it was all just a misunderstanding. Maybe it's not what I think; maybe Hazel's trying to gain attention by fabricating a scandal; maybe it's just a part of Danrique’s marketing strategy. I have to believe that he won't cheat on me.

With that thought in mind, Francesca suppressed her emotions and tried calling Danrique again. This time, her call was outright declined. When she tried again, all she could hear on the phone was a busy tone.

Obviously, her phone number had been blacklisted.

Wonderful! Francesca’s face turned as grim as a graveyard as she mocked herself for trying to defend Danrique.

After tossing her reasoning out the window, the woman wanted nothing more than to fly over to Summerbank to strangle both Danrique and Hazel.

Just when Francesca was about to go crazy, her phone suddenly rang.

She hurriedly answered the call, thinking it was Danrique on the other end of the line. “Danrique, you—"

“It's me, Francesca,” informed Layla. “Is this a good time? Can I talk to you?”

“Sure, Ms. Layla.” Francesca did not want to worry Layla, so she did her best to control her emotions. “How's your recovery?”

Even though Layla sounded calm, Francesca could immediately tell that something was wrong. “I'm much better now; I can move around without any trouble. What's wrong, Ms. Layla? Did something happen at the orphanage?”

“Lacy is suffering from complications, and it doesn't look good. There was nothing the hospital could do to help, so I had no choice but to call you,” revealed Layla anxiously.

“Just hang on. I'll be right over.” Francesca immediately began to collect her credentials.

"Are you sure?” inquired Layla worriedly. “I know I shouldn't have called you, but Lacy is hanging by a thread. You're the only one who can save the child.”

“It's fine. I'll be back as soon as possible.”

“Wait! You should have the Lindbergs’ men escort you. Since Chrono and the others are still targeting you, it's not a good idea for you to travel alone,” reminded Layla.

“Don’t worry about me; I know what to do. I'm hanging up now.”

After ending the phone call, Francesca was ready to do as suggested. However, she changed her mind when she remembered how Danrique betrayed her.

Besides that, Francesca was sure that she had recovered enough to defend herself should Chrono come looking for trouble.

The woman then booked a flight and quickly packed her bags before heading downstairs.

“Ms. Felch, are you... going somewhere?”

“I'm going back to S Nation. Tell Danrique that he and I are over and that I don't want to see him again. Goodbye!" uttered Francesca while putting on her sunglasses.

 

Chapter 2019 She Ran Off

"What?" Everyone inside the house was stumped as they simply could not wrap their heads around the situation. Why is Ms. Felch suddenly making an announcement that they're breaking up? Weren't they getting along just fine earlier on?

Francesca ignored them and started to make her way out. Sloan hastened to intercept her. “Don't be so rash, Ms. Felch. Surely, things can be talked over amicably. Have we done something wrong? Kindly berate us if we did, but please do not get mad.”

“This has nothing to do with you guys.” Francesca's brow creased up. “It's that b*stard Danrique. He's been unfaithful to me, and that is why I'm done with him. Just tell him that I said that if he asks.”

Considering her personality, she was not the type who would bother to explain too much. She, however, did not want to cause Sloan and Kerrie to get into trouble.

“There has to be some kind of misunderstanding here. Mr. Lindberg isn't that sort of man,” Sloan protested. “Did you hear about that from some news report you have seen? You can't trust those as they are mostly sensationalistic...”

“I went to ask him directly because I did not trust the news, but there was a woman's voice coming from his end of the phone..." Francesca was positively livid. “Forget it. It's too embarrassing, so I don't want to talk about it anymore. Regardless, do not try to stop me, or else don't blame me for being uncivil.”

“Ms. Felch...”

"Out of my way!” Francesca roared.

"You've yet to recover from your injuries, so it's dangerous for you to go out at this time... M-M:s. Felch..."

There was no chance that Sloan would be able to impede Francesca.

Kerrie got so worked up that she was stamping her feet. “What now? What should we do? Mr. Lindberg is going to be so upset with us if Ms. Felch were to leave!”

"Where's Gordon?” Sloan anxiously asked.

"He left a couple of minutes ago,” a jittery Kerrie explained. “He seems to be quite busy. After Ms. Felch called him inside to ask some questions, he left in a hurry.”

Bereft of options, Sloan could only call on Gordon. He was, however, unable to get through to the latter over the phone.

As an alternative, he called Sean instead but had no luck there either.

As such, Sloan had no choice but to go after Francesca himself first. By then, she had already reached the parking lot where two bodyguards were fervently trying to talk her around.

From a distance, Sloan came running. He thought that they would be able to stop her, but a sudden kick from Francesca sent one of the bodyguards flying.

With the other one in a state of shock and unable to react in time, Francesca hopped right into a red Lamborghini, started it up, and sped away.

“Close the gates!” Sloan yelled.

The bodyguards manning the iron gates immediately moved to shut it, but that was not going to deter Francesca.

Performing a drift, she directed her vehicle over to another car and drove right onto the roof. With the momentum created, she went soaring over the walls of the compound

“Jesus Christ!"

Leading some men out in pursuit on wheels, a panicky Sloan found that both Francesca and her car had already vanished from sight by the time he got beyond the gates.

Without a clue as to where Francesca could have gone, he could only split the search party into two groups. One would head into the city, while he himself would lead another handful of people in the direction of the airport.

At the same time, he instructed Kerrie to continue to try to get in touch with Gordon or Sean.

Over at Summerbank, Danrique had just finished off the ambushing team of assassins and was about to guide Hazel and the others away from the banquet hall.

It was evening time in Summerbank, and the light of the crimson sun had illuminated the horizon in a gorgeous hue.

Recalling Danrique’s dashing ways earlier when engaging his foes despite being outnumbered ten to one had Hazel's heart pounding wildly. Her big, doe eyes regarded Danrique with deep affection and were on the verge of tearing up.

“The market here hasn't stabilized yet, and I'm being besieged from all sides. Why would your father send you here for an inspection tour despite knowing how dangerous it is?”

Danrique had his hands on the steering wheel and his eyes focused to the fore. He did not even cast a glance in Hazel's way.

“Initially, Harrier was supposed to be here, but he got held back at the last minute. After conferring with each other, Father and Mr. Yarrow decided to allow me to come here instead.”

Hazel's voice was filled with the same adoration as it always had, and her body language unreservedly revealed her admiration and reverence for Danrique.

"Your sense of timing is simply impeccable.” Danrique shot her a look. “Fancy arriving and running into me at the airport at the exact same time the way you did.”

Chapter 2020 A Scheme Within A Scheme

Hazel fell silent briefly before she replied softly. “Actually, it was my father who tracked down your whereabouts and purposefully scheduled my arrival to coincide with yours. His goal was to create an opportunity for me to spend more time with you. According to them, it'd be easier for two individuals to develop feelings for each other when alone with each other in a foreign setting.” Once she got those words off her chest, Hazel bit down on her lip, an expression of unease and nervousness on her face. “I've already forgone demanding accountability for the fabrication of those scandalous reports from before...”

Though Danrique only said it halfway, his message was already apparent.

“I know that this has all been extremely troubling for you, but I feel quite helpless too since this was what my father and Mr. Yarrow insisted. They are both quite stubborn and won't quit until they get what they want, so it's not really a bad thing that I'm playing along. This would make them give up sooner, no?"

Hazel's tone reflected her own feelings about the lack of control over her circumstances. She paused and added, "Having grown up alongside you, I know what you're like. Once you've decided on something, nobody can ever hope to change your mind. That holds true both in your professional as well as your love life. That is why I've never believed that you may ever develop feelings for me. I just want to continue to quietly support you and always be there for you whenever you need me.” Her words were so touching and conveyed in such a heartfelt manner that Danrique was unable to bring himself to find fault with her.

Even though they ran into each other at the airport, they had both kept to their own schedules those past couple of days, and she had not gotten in his way at all.

Making that visit to Summerbank so high-profile was also a deliberate act on Danrique’s part.

It was he who had instructed the three great families to fly a representative over for an inspection, and it was also he who wanted the media to be all over that representative. The purpose of that was to send a message to those who were backing Pastor that he, Danrique Lindberg, had his mind set on taking over that city.

What came unexpectedly to him was that, of all the people, the three great families had decided that they would nominate Hazel.

Considering that she was currently in the process of taking over Gerard's position, Hazel's presence was justifiable. However, it had also led to some scandals that profoundly angered Francesca.

The latter had behaved like a raging mastiff when they conversed over the phone. As the assassins were charging at him when he was about to explain himself, he had no choice but to hang up to deal with them first.

Alone after being separated from the group, unarmed, and confronted with an overwhelming number of hostiles during that time, he and Hazel sought refuge in the shadows. Francesca's incessant calls, however, kept giving his position away, time and again.

As he needed to be on standby for Sean's incoming call, he was unable to switch off his phone. Hence, he could only temporarily block her number.

I suppose that Francesca must be throwing a fit at home, but it can't be helped. I can only offer her a proper explanation after the situation at hand has been sorted out.

“It was fortunate that you were around tonight, or things might have gotten really ugly for me.” Hazel did her best to try to ease the mood.

At the banquet earlier that night, she had been harassed by several wealthy businessmen from M Nation. They even knocked a glass of champagne over onto her, drenching her gown and causing her to get cut by fragments of shattered glass.

Just as she was in a most wretched state and at a loss for what to do, Danrique showed up and took her to the lounge to get changed and have her wounds cleaned up.

His gentlemanly mannerisms and considerate care throughout had left her profoundly moved.

“It was nothing, so don't mention it,” said Danrique nonchalantly. “I'll gladly help even if you're just an ordinary friend. Besides, you're here as a representative of Lindberg Corporation. If you don't look good, we don't look good.”

The sense of distance those words projected left Hazel a little disconcerted, but not daring to voice that out, she could only softly reply with, “Yes. I understand.”

"My participation at the banquet was also prearranged,” Danrique further explained. “I wasn't there expressly to help you!”

"Yeah. I know that.” Hazel bowed her head meekly.

“This place is fraught with danger. There could be hordes of assassins after me every single day and all manner of local tycoons looking to make things difficult for Lindberg Corporation. You should not have come here in the first place!”

Danrique had originally wanted Harrier with him. Firstly, it was to declare his own position to those behind Pastor, and secondly, to humble Harrier.

Harrier, however, was extremely cunning. Not only had he fashioned himself an excuse to get away, but he had also successfully managed to cajole Gerard into sending Hazel in his place.

In his eagerness to hook his daughter up with Danrique, Gerard had unexpectedly fallen for Harrier's scheming.