Ch. 1001..1010

Chapter 1001: I Seem To Be Dying

Elaine was stunned when she heard these words, only the wind whistling by her ears.

The driver made a sharp turn and Elaine was thrown directly into the seat.

Miss, fasten your seat belt, I'll drive to a less crowded place.

Elaine finally came back to herself, nodding as she closed the window and quickly fastened her seat belt.

The black sedan sped along, dodging vehicles on the road.

Elaine felt her heart jump out of her chest, and every time she was thinking about the moment of death in her mind when they were about to hit the car in front of her.

She clenched her phone tightly when Archer's phone rang.

Elaine picked it up with shaking hands.

Archer said, "Well, let's say just let me say goodbye to you. It's all the same"

Elaine looked ahead and choked in her throat, "Cousin, I am about to die..."

No way, it's just he couldn't go to see you. How can it be that serious?

Elaine snorted and choked, "I was on the way to the airport. The brakes broke... Woo... Woo... I'm going to die."

As she said that, her tears rolled down, "Tell Darnell that no one will bother him when I die, can he... Can he leave my father alone? Otherwise, I will curse him even if I am sent to hell..."

The more Elaine cried, the sadder she became. Her voice was eventually overflooded by crying.

After the rustling on the other end of the phone, it was then Darnell's speaking. He said solemnly, "Where are you now?"

I do not know......

As Elaine spoke, the car made another sharp turn, accompanied by her screams.

Darnell said, "Look around. Tell me what you can see now."

Elaine hurriedly looked out the window and saw a flashing road sign, while she was still sobbing, "It's the road called Hen... I can't remember. There is a constructing shopping mall on the right side. and there is a large artificial lake next to it..." Before she could finish speaking, the car crushed into something, and the phone was thrown out.

Elaine wanted to reach out and pick it up, but the car was driving at a very high speed. The car had to avoid other vehicles and was driving in twists and turns. She couldn't pick up the phone at all.

On the other side, Darnell threw the phone to Archer and ordered, "Henshin Road, in the direction of the outer ring."

The driver responded and rushed over immediately.

Archer was stunned by the inertia of the sudden start. He barely kept his composure, "How could the brakes of her car fail? Franklin didn't accompany her?"

Darnell's face was cold. He glanced at Archer, who immediately understood Darnell's thought and dialed Franklin's phone.

But no one answered there.

Archer said, "They probably send Franklin away. Wasn't Franklin from their side? Why..."

Darnell said coldly, "They want to keep Elaine in Riverside City."

In this way, Franklin has no way out.

Elaine curled up in her seat, not sure if she would survive.

At this time, the car has entered an open road.

The speed was still fast.

The driver gritted his teeth and said, "My lady, sit tight. There will be a violent collision later."

Elaine nodded and tightened her seatbelt.

Soon, the car slammed into the barricade on the roadside. The car crushed to the barricade within a splash of lighting. Every time the car was screaming wildly. And they eventually crushed into a huge tree. With a huge crash, everything finally stopped.

Only dust remains.

A few minutes later, the black Maybach stopped behind them.

Darnell got out of the car quickly and strode over.

Inside the car, both Elaine and the driver had passed out.

Blood spilled from Elaine's forehead and ran down her cheeks.

Darnell tapped the car window and called her a few times, but there was no response.

He forcibly opened the car door, took her out and put her on the ground. His voice was almost trembling, "Elaine, wake up."

Archer endured the dizziness all the way here. He then came over, and examined her, "No serious limbs injuries."

After speaking, he took her pulse and checked her heartbeat again. He eventually breathed a sigh of relief, "Don't worry, she's still alive."

Archer looked forward. "The driver should be more seriously injured. I'll take a look at that. The ambulance will be here soon."

After speaking, Archer staggered over again, opened the driver's door, and gave the driver first aid.

Darnell lowered his eyes, looking at the lifeless little girl with blood in her head lying in his arms. His lips pursed.

After a while, the ambulance arrived, and Elaine was lifted up.

Darnell got up and said to Archer, "Follow me."

Archer said, "Me?"

At this time, in the ambulance, Elaine opened her eyes weakly, looked at the man standing not far away, and raised her hand to him with effort, as if she had a lot to tell him. But only tears fell silently. Archer coughed, "I'll still go to the driver's sidekick. He's in serious condition."

After Archer ran away, Darnell stood there for two seconds before getting into the ambulance.

He held Elaine's hand which was stretching in the air and whispered, "Don't be afraid, I'm here."

Elaine slowly closed her eyes again.

Elaine felt like she had a long, long dream. In the dream, there was a hand holding her and she was held into a warm hug.

Later, the vague figure in the dream gradually became clear.

It's Darnell.

He called her "Elaine" gently, kissed her on the forehead. They were about to kiss down but her father suddenly showed up and forcibly separated the two of them.

Elaine woke up suddenly, looking at the ceiling above her head. She couldn't tell where she was

The smell of disinfectant was all around.

Seeing this, Franklin quickly came up in front of her, "Elaine, how are you?"

Elaine looked at him and said slowly, "Dad..."

Franklin breathed a sigh of relief, "You still recognize me, that's perfect. Is there any discomfort?"

After he said this, Elaine gradually regained her senses. She raised her hand and touched the gauze-covered head, "I feel the headache, and my neck is so uncomfortable..." Franklin pulled her hand down, "You've sprained your neck. And they put a neck brace on you. It's normal to be uncomfortable, and it'll be fine in a few days."

Elaine tried to sit up and Franklin immediately adjusted the height of the bed for her.

She looked around and said dully, "Dad, are you the only one here?"

Just me.

But I seem to have saw Darnell. Is he who bring me to the hospital?

Franklin sat on the edge of the bed, "You've been hit on the head and you're prone to hallucinations."

Elaine didn't believe it, "But I clearly..."

Okay Elaine. Franklin sighed. "You just woke up and you need to rest. Stop talking."

Elaine let out an "oh" and stared blankly ahead.

Franklin said, "Dad will go to the doctor and ask them to exam you again. You can sit still."

After Franklin left, Elaine looked around casually. Her eyes finally falling on a man's cufflinks by the bed.

It seemed that it was not belongs to her father.

Chapter 1002: Not Gossipy Like You

Soon, Franklin returned with the Doctor.

Elaine quickly tightened the hold of the cuff link and hid it in the palm of her hand.

After examining her and asking her what was wrong, the doctor told Franklin, "Miss James has a concussion. She needs to stay in the hospital for a few days, and she needs to bed rest." "Miss. James," He said to Elaine, "If you need anything, you can ring the nurse's bell."

Thank you, said Elaine

As the Doctor left, Elaine suddenly remembered something and said, "Dad, how's the driver?"

He's hurt worse than you are, Franklin said. "he's still unconscious."

And he...

Don't worry, he's not in danger.

Elaine nodded and added, "Dad, why did the brakes suddenly break?"

Elaine didn't know how to drive a car, so she didn't know much about it, and didn't think much of it as a conspiracy theory, just out of curiosity, asking questions.

Franklin's face darkened as he said, "I didn't check the car before I left. I won't do it again."

Elaine threw herself into his arms and said, "Dad, it was always my fault, always fighting with you and making you worry about me."

When she went through life and death today, she realized how much of a brat she had been.

She was so scared, so scared that she was gonna die.

Franklin patted her head and sighed silently. "Elaine, I'm sorry I didn't protect you."

Dad, you've protected me so well, I'll go to Switzerland and not let you worry.

With that in mind, Franklin paused. "Elaine, you may not be going to Switzerland anytime soon."

Hearing this, Elaine came out of his arms, eyes lit up, "Really?"

Franklin got angry, "What did you just say?"

I didn't want to worry you, pouted Elaine

Elaine, Daddy wants to tell you that it's dangerous to stay in Riverside. From today on, Daddy will send someone to protect you. After a while, I will send you to City N. This car accident was no accident at all.

Which means the James' side was already upset that he sent Elaine to Switzerland to avoid the fight.

They were aware of his plans and arrangements.

This time, it was just a warning.

The only way he'd do anything to help them was to keep Elaine in Riverside.

If he insists on sending Elaine away again, next time it might be more than just a concussion.

Elaine answered, and seeing that her father's mind wandered, she put out her hand and waved it in front of him. "Daddy?"

Franklin was pulled back to reality. "You go back to rest. Daddy's going out."

The room was quiet again.

Elaine couldn't sleep at all, so she grabbed the cufflink in the palm of her hand, which was supposed to be Darnell's. Then she wasn't dreaming when she saw him in the ambulance.

He brought her to the hospital.

With that in mind, Elaine's lips curled.

But before she could feel better, she remembered that her father and he were on different sides now.

So, she may never see him again.

Elaine lay in the hospital for a few days, feeling dizzy and nauseous at first, but then she started bouncing around.

She wanted to get checked out of the hospital, but Franklin wouldn't let her, he asked her to stay for two more days, because a brain injury is no small thing.

On the fifth day, while Elaine was rolling around in bed, someone finally came to visit her.

Archer sat down and said, "The ward couldn't hold your racing heart."

Seeing him, Elaine immediately got up and said, "Cousin Archer..."

No, don't call me that. I'm scared.

She paused and then said, "Did Darnell send you to see me?"

What's he got to do with it, Archer said

Didn't he bring me to the hospital?

No, I did.

Elaine frowned and said, "You're lying!"

With that, she also took out the hidden cuff link from the bedside, "This clearly belongs to him!"

Archer put on a serious face, "It's mine."

Elaine was fuming, "You don't wear a shirt and a suit, how can it be yours, it was his!"

Yes, yes, if you say so.

It is!

After an argument, Elaine slouched again. "I know he doesn't want to see me right now, but my dad... has his reasons."

You don't have to worry about that, Archer said. "It's not that he doesn't want to see you. It's just that there's no point. In fact, you should know in your heart, he has always treated you as a younger sibling, all his love and care, are out of this." Elaine hung her head lower and said nothing.

Well, it's not a big deal, said Archer. "Just find someone else to like. Isn't that Nicolas Melton good?"

Elaine looked up sharply. "How do you know him?"

Archer knew he had let it slip, and laughed drily. "Darnell told me."

No Way, Elaine said. "He's not as gossipy as you are, so he wouldn't say such a thing."

This is too much. I'm taking this personally.

Elaine got up and said, "Tell me now, Cousin Archer!"

Archer was shocked by her "Cousin Archer" and scratched the back of his head. There was nothing more he could do, but to tell the whole truth, "You said you are not used to eating there, and have no friends. He... just heard that you like to eat at that restaurant, and then bought the restaurant, let Nicholas to accompany you."

Elaine stood there for a moment, then looked at Archer and muttered, "Is this also the caring of the elders for the younger sibling?"

Elaine said, my dad didn't even do that!"

Archer tried to save this, "I wouldn't say that. Everyone's different..."

Elaine ignored him, took the cufflinks and ran.

She walked through the hospital crowd, saw the men in black suits, and hid behind a wall.

Whoever Franklin sent to protect her, or whoever the James sent to keep an eye on her, probably had no idea that a patient, after spending so many days in the hospital, would suddenly run away.

As a result, both have slacked off.

That caused Elaine to dodged all the obstacles, got out of the hospital, and immediately take a cab to Darnell's house.

When the taxi pulled up, Elaine was calmer than she had been at the hospital.

It's not like she could just go to him.

If the James family finds out, her father could be in danger.

Elaine leaned in the back seat, her eyes completely dimmed.

Why is it so hard for her to see him now?DD

Chapter 1003: It's You！

Ahead, the taxi driver's voice came, "Little girl, we are here, don't you want to get off?"

Elaine looked back sadly. "No, let's go."

Elaine didn't have an answer, and she didn't want to go back to the hospital, and she didn't really want to go home right now.

Just as she was hesitating, a woman walked out of Darnell's home.

The same one she saw in Darnell's room.

Elaine's eyes lit up. "Just follow her."

Ariel had just left the gate when she noticed that someone was following her.

She glanced back and changed her destination.

After circling half round of the Riverside City, she stopped in front of an alley that didn't look like much.

She opened the door and walked down slowly.

The taxi pulled up quickly, Elaine paid, and hurriedly followed.

But this alley looked abandoned, just piles of stuff.

She came in and saw no sign of Ariel.

A gust of cold wind came, and Elaine coughed and waved off the dust in front of her face, trying to move forward.

At this point, there was a sudden gust of wind behind her, and before Elaine could react, she was pinned against the wall.

A dagger, was across her neck.

Elaine put her hands up when she got scared.

Ariel, after seeing her face clearly, frowned and took two steps back to put away the dagger, "It's you."

Elaine leaned against the wall, clearly terrified, and stammered, "I... I was gonna go see Darnell, but... I saw you came out, so I came to see..."

Ariel said, "You see if I can find him?"

Elaine, nod gently.

She glanced at her and saw that she was still wearing her hospital gown. "You should know that your father and he are on opposite sides of the aisle now, and it will not do him or your father any good to see him." "I know..." Elaine said quietly. "I just want to see him from a distance. I won't disturb him..."

Ariel said, "I really don't understand what you little girls think. It's just a glimpse. What's the point?"

Elaine couldn't argue. She just hung her head.

After a while, Ariel began again, "Come with me, seeing you like this, you probably won't rest until you find him, to save you from getting into more trouble, and found out by the James."

Elaine immediately said, "Thank you!"

Once in the car, Ariel took her directly to the James Group.

It was the first time Elaine had ever been here in her life, standing in an elevator, counting the floors.

Until the elevator stopped on fifty-seven.

Out of the elevator, the staff outside nodded at Ariel, and looked at Elaine with curiosity.

She took Elaine to Darnell's office and muttered, "I've got some paperwork to do. You wait here. He's in a meeting. It's gonna be an hour."

Ariel said nothing, closed the door and left.

Elaine sat on the couch and exhaled.

She pulled out her cell phone, and Archer called.

He already called several times.

Elaine calls, "Hello."

Your Majesty, where have you been?

I'm at Darnell's work.

Archer said, "You just went over there?"

Elaine says, "No, I followed a girl. I saw her at Darnell's."

Was it Ariel?

I think so.

Archer was silent for a moment, then let her, "I'll handle your father, just come back early."

Elaine was happy to nod, "Thank you, cousin Archer!"

All right, all right, you don't have to kill me more.

Hanging up the phone, Elaine held her phone and looked around.

It was like Darnell's style, cold and impersonal.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 1004: Because You Like Me

Elaine yawned, leaned back on the couch, slowly closed her eyes and fell asleep.

When Darnell got back to the office, Elaine was curled up on the couch.

He glanced back and the assistant immediately behind him said, "It was Ariel who brought her here."

Darnell looked back at her and walked toward her.

The assistant silently left and closed the door behind her.

Darnell walked up to Elaine, pulled on his tie with one hand, sat down on the coffee table behind him, and looked at her without saying a word.

Elaine didn't know how long she had slept. Feeling a little cold, she reached out to pull the quilt in her sleep, but didn't feel anything.

Elaine thought the quilt had fallen to the ground, and then she leaned out half of her body, her hands fumbling on the ground.

Just as she was about to fall, Darnell finally got tired of watching and reached out and took her arm.

Elaine lifted her head, looked at him with bleary-eyed, and muttered, "Am I dreaming again?"

Darnell said, "Elaine, how could you fall asleep here like it's your home?"

Elaine sat up slowly, waking up.

She was in his office.

Elaine whispered, "I fell asleep... My Head is spinning..."

Darnell bent his finger and tapped her between the eyes. "Are you awake yet?"

Elaine felt some pain, lifted her hand and rubbed it, "Yes, yes, yes!"

Darnell retracted his hand and said, "Why are you running around when you should be in the hospital?"

Elaine slowly opened her palm, and the exquisite cufflink was visible.

This, she said, "is yours."

Darnell glanced down and didn't say anything.

When he took her to the hospital that day, she held his hand tightly, and finally she took the cuff link.

Also, you sent Nicholas to Switzerland, added Elaine. "I know it couldn't be a coincidence that you did this..."

I did it because I didn't want to owe you.

His voice was so faint that she could not hear any emotion.

Elaine shook her head. "I don't believe it. You Don't owe me anything. But you sent Nicholas to Switzerland, celebrate my birthday with me and save me when I was in danger. I don't believe you don't feel anything for me." Darnell looked at her calmly and said, "Elaine, I can't respond to your feelings for me, and I don't want to owe you something for that, which is why all this is happening, you understand?"

Relationships are from both sides. I like you, but you don't like me. It happens. Why do you feel like you owe me? Elaine asked earnestly, "You feel guilty because you like me but you can't give me what I want, right?" Darnell looked at her, pursed his thin lips, and for a moment said, "Nonsense."

Elaine's face lit up with a smile. "You can't argue with that. I'm right."

Darnell got up and said, "you need to go back to the hospital."

It's getting dark outside for Elaine. It's time for her to go back.

Or her dad was really gonna be pissed.

She stood up, tugged at Darnell's sleeve. "I know you and my dad aren't on the same side right now, but I'm sure you'll come to an agreement one day, and with the James, they'll find out you're right one day." "I'll wait for you."

Darnell moved his hand, but didn't say a word.

Elaine just came to see him, to make her feelings clear, and now she's completely free of all mental baggage, and she's ready to go.

She had only taken two steps when her wrist was caught.

Darnell's voice rang, "How are you going to get back?"

Elaine was stumped by his question.

When she came here, she came with Ariel, so she wasn't afraid of being found out.

But now that she's alone, what if there's someone from the James down at the office.

Before Elaine could figure it out, Darnell had passed her and gone straight ahead, "I'll drive you."

Elaine had a smile on her face, and she was running after him cheerily.

They got in the elevator, there was no heat in the elevator, just a chill in her face.

Elaine sneezed uncontrollably.

Darnell looked at her sideways, took off his jacket, and threw it at her.

Elaine took it and put it on happily.

It was rush hour and traffic was inevitably slow.

Elaine was in no hurry, just wishing the time could pass slower.

As she enjoyed the rare moment, Darnell's gentle voice rang, "Don't trust anyone but your father at the James."

Elaine paused, then slowly nodded.

Darnell continued, "Don't take a stranger's car, and don't go out alone."

My dad had bodyguards with me...

Darnell looked back at her, his voice flat. "I mean this time."

Elaine, "...Oh."

She knew it, he still got mad.

For the rest of the trip, Darnell didn't talk.

Elaine thought about it before she said, "Can I ask you a question?"

Not giving Darnell a chance to say no, she then added, "What's the deal with that girl who showed up at your house?"

Darnell said, "you said she was my girlfriend."

But you said no, Elaine snapped

As she spoke, Elaine lowered her voice again. "I'm just... I'm just curious, she seems to be able to see you all the time and I envy her..."

She doesn't live in the same environment as you. There's nothing to envy.

Elaine thought he was messing with her head again, that's not what she was talking about.

Not long after, the car stopped at the side door of the hospital.

Darnell said, "This is it."

Elaine slowly unbuckled her seat belt and looked at him with a look of reluctance on her face. "When will we see each other again?" Darnell was silent for a moment, "I don't know."

Elaine hung her head.

Even he wasn't sure what was going to happen.

Sneaking out to see him like this, it won't happen again.

Her dad said he'd drop her off at City N.

And the next time they would see each other, it's gonna be forever.

It would be a shame to leave like this.

With that in mind, Elaine took a deep breath and said to him, "Let me tell you a secret. Come closer."

Darnell could see through her little trick, but he didn't say anything, tilted his head cooperatively and see what she's up to.

Elaine took the opportunity to give him a quick kiss on the cheek, then opened the car door and ran away like she was escaping him. The whole thing happened so fast, like she had been practicing it for a thousand times.

Darnell froze, and before he knew it, Elaine was miles away.

He looked at her back for a long time, then he lowered his head, the corners of his lips inadvertently curled.00000

Chapter 1005: Did You Kiss Him?

Elaine ran straight to the ward, opened the door, looked around and gasped.

In the room, there was only Archer who had been playing games that made him nod off.

Hearing the door open, Archer looked over and yawned, "At last, your majesty, you are back."

Elaine walked over hurriedly, nervous, "Cousin Archer, did my dad come here?"

He came by this afternoon.

Elaine's heart was in her throat.

Archer put away his cell phone and said, "But I told him you were being checked by the doctor, and lied through this."

Elaine let out a sigh of relief and sat down next to him, patting her chest. "Ok, ok."

Archer's hand was across the arm of the sofa. "Did you see him?"

What did you say?

Just... Elaine smiled as she remembered kissing Darnell, she couldn't help but smile and said, "I can't tell you."

He looked at Elaine and said, in a speechless manner, "You didn't kiss him, did you?"

Elaine looked as if he had been right. Her face turned red in an instant and she stammered, "No... No! Don't you say that!"

Archer tutted, "It was written all over your face, but then again, you're getting bolder. You used to see Darnell run faster than a bunny."

Elaine quipped, "I've always been bold, and I wasn't afraid of him, just... the last time he fell asleep, I was..."

In the middle of the conversation, Elaine suddenly realized that she had let it slip and quickly raised her hand to cover her mouth. Archer got interested and asked, "What happened after he fell asleep?"

Elaine shook her head and said nothing.

Archer's admiration for her took it to the next level.

He knew exactly how bold Elaine was, how far she was willing to go with Darnell, and how much Darnell was willing to tolerate her.

So if Elaine did kiss Darnell today, it was probably just on the cheek or something.

But when she did something while Darnell was asleep, it left a lot of imagination.

Archer got up and said, "That's it. I'm leaving."

Elaine stopped him, "Cousin Archer, my father said he will send me to City N in a few days, do you want to go together." "You go ahead first, I'll go next month," Archer said

Elaine said, "Oh," her head hanging down.

After a while, Archer said, "If you don't want to go to City N, just tell your dad. He won't make you."

But if I stayed in Riverside, my dad would be more worried about me, and I'd be afraid I wouldn't be able to help myself...

To see Darnell again.

If they want to kill you, whether you're in City N or Switzerland, they'll be waiting for you, Archer said. They can break the car this time to keep you in Riverside, and who's to say they won't break the plane next time, but right now it's safest for you to stay in Riverside." Elaine paused. "This time, the car?"

Looking at her confused face, Archer realized that Franklin hadn't said anything to her.

He was silent for two seconds, laugh drily, "Time is late, I have to go back to eat, bye."

After that, he got the hell out of there.

Elaine sat there, deep in thought.

Franklin entered the room and saw that it was pitch black. Turning on the light, he said, "Elaine, are you still sleeping?"

As soon as he said that, he saw her sitting straight in the sofa.

Franklin was confused.

He walked over and said, "Elaine, why didn't you turn on the Lights?"

Elaine didn't reply, "Dad, this car accident wasn't an accident. Did the James people do it?"

Hearings that, Franklin face changed, patted her head, "Elaine, you can rest assured that dad will not let anything happen to you, I will send you in a few days..."

Elaine interrupted, "Dad, I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying with you!"

Franklin frowned. "We had a deal. How did you..."

I've Thought for a long time that if they want me to stay in Riverside, that means I'm safe, at least for now, but if I'm going to leave, they're going to stop me, this car accident is an example. said Elaine. "Besides, they'll never leave you alone." "Elaine, Daddy will get you safely to City N." Franklin said

Elaine shook her head, "No, now that they are on to me, then everywhere I go will be in danger, and in City N, sister has three children, and... Sherry, I do not want to implicate them, and I don't want them to be hurt because of me." "Elaine, City N is Clarence's territory, and the James family is afraid to go over there, and if they go over there, they're definitely declaring war on Clarence, and they're not going to do that."

Elaine looked at him and said, "Dad, I thought my uncle wouldn't hurt me, so he said he would take me back to Riverside, and I said yes without hesitation, but Sherry lost her baby in order to save me, I can't go back to them knowing I'm in danger." Franklin moved his lips as if to say something, but at last he sighed in silence. "Promise me you won't run around, and that you'll take the bodyguard I've arranged for you when you leave."

Elaine nodded her head and said, "I will!"

The next morning, Elaine was released from the hospital.

Back home, she was still the first to go to Hilbert's room.

It was just a pity that the great-grandfather who loved her had left this world forever.

By the afternoon of the same day, word had spread all over Riverside that Elaine had left the hospital and gone home.

A lot of people came to visit with gifts.

Back at the hospital, Franklin had used the excuse that the doctor told Elaine to stay bed rest to kept them out.

And now she was back home, and there was nothing to stop them.

Elaine found that most of the aunts who came to see her were the ones she had seen at her great-grandfather's funeral that day.

After a few words, their intentions were clear.

All wanted to be in-laws with Elaine.

Elaine's too young, Franklin replied with a smile. "Maybe in a couple of years."

Elaine is twenty-two and an adult. she said, "And wasn't she engaged before?"

Franklin's face froze for a moment, and he had to make another excuse, "Her great-grandfather just pass away, and it's not a good time to get married."

She still persisted, "Don't worry, don't worry, we can first set down the engagement, wait a year or two, then get married, it's not too late."

Franklin was silent for a moment, "In fact, Elaine's great-grandfather and I had promised her that she could marry whoever she wants, so I cannot make this decision."000☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 1006 - A lady's temper

A couple's bond is all nurtured. With that, this aunt looked at Elaine again and said affectionately, "Isn't that right, Elaine." Elaine smiled faintly, "I have someone I like."

The other party's expression has been restrained for a few minutes, slowly speaking: "Elaine, everything is about a family, you must not meet some messy people outside, not to mention your father, even we aunts and uncles will not agree, not anyone is qualified to step into the door of the James family."

......

To prevent Elaine from saying something she shouldn't, Franklin coughed: "Elaine will stay in Riverside City from now on, there is no rush on this matter, take your time."

Hearing him say that, the other party then gave up, and when he looked at Elaine, the smile returned to his face: "Elaine, in a few days Auntie wants to ask you to go shopping, you won't refuse, right?"

Elaine said, "Thank you, Auntie, but I don't like shopping, you can find someone else to accompany you."

How can a girl as old as you not like shopping? Let's leave it at that, auntie will pick you up in a few days.

She settled the matter directly on her own, picked up her bag and left satisfied.

Elaine sat there with a slight frown, she grew up, even her dad and grandpa would rarely ask her to have to do something, this was the first time she was forced to do something she didn't want by someone she didn't know well by pressing her head. Next to her, Franklin sighed: "Elaine, this is what you will inevitably experience if you stay in Riverside City, and it's not too late for you to leave Riverside City if you want to."

Elaine shook her head, "Dad, I'm not leaving, it's just a shopping trip, no big deal."

Elaine, it's Daddy who's sorry.

Elaine sat down next to him and took his hand, "Dad, you don't have to say that."

She knew that her dad was now in the same camp as those people, so it was not good to refuse them.

Now that her grandfather is gone, she and her father are the only ones left in the family.

She's going to have to take her share of the blame, too.

After a few days, the car that came to pick up Elaine pulled up at the door.

She got in the car and found a young strange man in the car.

The middle-aged woman introduced herself, "Elaine, this is my son, Brendon McPherson, you guys meet."

But Elaine came out shopping with her and that was the limit. After a simple greeting to say hello, she looked out the window and said nothing more.

The middle-aged woman was so enthusiastic about the topic, she only perfunctorily responded to two, no desire to talk further.

Gradually, the car quieted down.

When she arrived at the mall, the middle-aged woman symbolically stayed with her for a few stores before taking her to the wedding dress store: "Elaine, look at these clothes, they're so beautiful, do you want to go in and try them on?"

Elaine looked over at her with a cold expression, "Aunt Maple, I don't like all this, I just came to shop with you today, I can walk you in if you want to try."

When she said this, Maple James' expression revealed some displeasure: "Why are you so rude, your father didn't teach you how to talk to your elders."

Elaine was still maintaining a little patience and politeness, but when she heard her start attacking her father, her tone became nonchalant: "If it's not my father, I don't even know you, what kind of elder are you, did you give me pocket money when I was a kid, why should you lecture me?"

Maple sternly said: "Elaine, you think you are still the high and mighty the James family lady, now the James family has long been the James family of the past, your grandfather is gone, no one has long been bowing to your orders, your father knows to find another way out Your father knows how to find another way out, but you are the only one who has a Missy temper and doesn't know how to control it."

Brendon saw that the two of them were getting more and more loud and had drawn a crowd of onlookers around, he went up and whispered, "Mom, stop it."

Maple pulled him away: "What I do not say, I have to give her a clear today, or really think of themselves as an unattainable princess, Elaine, you have been cancelled before, now we are willing to engage you, despite past suspicions, and also good words to serve, is enough to give your family face, you are still here to play a lady temper You really don't know what's good or bad."

Elaine clenched her fists and turned slightly red.

Out of good breeding, she doesn't fight or curse.

Not to mention for such shameless people.

Learned a little from Sherry when I was on the South Side.

Elaine took a deep breath: "You...... you nonsense, I was cancelled what happened to the engagement, not you do not care about the past, but you see my father's power, want him to spare no effort to help you, so you have the cheek to come to me three or four times, my father has told you, I will not marry someone I do not like, and now you want to force me to go to the wedding dress, you are a bad woman!"

Maple froze and was about to snap when she saw the person walking behind Elaine and blushed slightly.

Brendon also saw it and couldn't help but take two steps back.

Elaine saw that they all stopped talking and instead stared behind her, and she subconsciously turned her head.

Wide-eyed at the sight of the visitor.

Soon, Darnell stood beside her, looking calmly at Maple, spitting out words, but let people fall into the ice: "If the James family elders are all people like you, then the James family really does not have the need to exist anymore."

Maple blushed and wondered when he had started listening.

She half-opened her mouth for a long time before she spoke, "I ...... was joking with her......"

Elaine said, "I don't find this funny."

Maple looked at Darnell again and reluctantly said, "Elaine will be marrying into our family in a while, this is our family business, it should have nothing to do with you."

I don't have......

Darnell's voice rang out faintly, "It really doesn't matter."

Maple let out an inaudible sigh of relief.

Immediately after, Darnell added, "But it seems you have misunderstood, Elaine is not the one who was released from the engagement."

After saying that, he swept his gaze extremely coldly at Brendon and left without looking back.

Only after he left did Maple feel fully alive, completely surprised to actually meet him here.

Elaine said to her: "Aunt Maple, this is also the last time I call you so, I will not marry to the McPherson family, I am this lady temper, if you have to force my father, let me marry can also be, then we will see which one of us first can not stand, anyway, I definitely not will be aggrieved person."

With that, she turned her head in style and left with a big stride.

Maple looked at her back, obviously pissed off, sneered out: "the James family now the situation, is not she said not to marry, not to marry, a little girl who does not know anything still dare to threaten me, I have to clean up her temper, see how proud she really is."000000000000

Chapter 1007 I don't have time every day

Elaine left and went straight to the underground parking lot.

She looked left and right, almost finished the parking lot, and did not see Darnell's car.

Just as she was about to give up, a voice came from behind her, "What are you doing here."

A smile rose on Elaine's face and she immediately turned her head, her eyes curved, "I knew I'd see you if I waited here!"

Darnell was noncommittal and looked at the time: "Have you eaten yet."

Elaine immediately shook her head.

Darnell lifted his leg and moved forward, "Let's go."

Elaine followed him to the car and asked, as she fastened her seat belt, "What are you doing here?"

Something.

That's really a coincidence eh. Saying that, Elaine muttered to herself again, "Then I really need to go out more often, one chance encounter and surely there will be opportunities in the future." Darnell didn't say anything, just said, "What would you like to eat."

Elaine asked him, "Is fondue okay."

She was not very good at eating spicy food, but since she went to South City, she fell in love with it.

Darnell gave a low "hmm" and drove on.

All the way, Elaine had a great time.

This windfall was so wonderful.

I can't believe we can still eat together.

Half an hour later, the car stopped at a hot pot restaurant by the river.

In the booth, after ordering, Elaine said thank you to the waiter, waited for him to leave, and then looked over at Darnell, muttering in a small voice, "Aunt Maple is talking nonsense, I'm not marrying her son." Darnell sipped his tea and spoke slowly, "I know."

Hearing his answer, the smile on Elaine's face widened even more.

She looked out the window, the sun was shining brightly at this time of year and the whole river was shining brightly.

Elaine suddenly remembered something and turned her head again, "Although you told Aunt Maple today that it wasn't me who was broken off the engagement, I thought about it and I didn't seem very happy to hear that......" It's even a little sad.

Although Darnell had never agreed to the engagement either, it was she who objected more strongly.

Once she thought of this, Elaine felt that the hot pot in front of her didn't smell so good anymore.

Darnell looked at her, "So what makes you happy."

Elaine propped her hand on the table and met his gaze with her cheek, and moved forward a few points, saying seriously, "Could you, please, pretend that our engagement has never been broken?" "Can't."

Elaine was momentarily discouraged and slowly backed away.

At this time, the dishes came one after another.

Darnell unwrapped his chopsticks and handed them to her, "Eat."

The hot pot has also been boiled and an aroma comes to the surface.

Elaine was solidly hungry.

She picked up her chopsticks and threw herself into the feast with all her heart and soul.

Eating dinner, Darnell got up, "Take you home."

Elaine said, "It's still early and I don't want to go back."

Then I'm off.

Elaine: "......"

She immediately followed, staying close behind him.

Elaine fell asleep with her head tilted at some point.

Darnell gave her a look, then parked the car at the river and walked down.

He sat against the front of the car, quietly looking at the river in the distance, not knowing what he was thinking.

After half an hour, Elaine woke up, feeling sore and aching in her neck.

She moved around gently and saw Darnell sitting in front of her, his features cold and faint.

In the envelope of sunlight, flattening a bit of tenderness.

Elaine couldn't resist and took out her cell phone and peeked out the car window to take a quiet picture.

But she forgot to turn off the photo sound.

After the first shot, Darnell had already looked at it sideways.

Elaine's hand shook and unconsciously took a second shot.

She hastily put away her phone, pretended that nothing had happened, and straightened her hair.

At that moment, the passenger door opened and Darnell got in.

Elaine coughed and looked out the window sheepishly.

But the good news is that Darnell didn't say anything and just drove off again.

Soon, it was at her doorstep.

Darnell stopped the car, "Go inside."

Elaine still has some reluctance, she thought for a moment, the old trick: "I have something to say to you, you...... come over a little."

This time Darnell did not fall for her trick again, hand propped up on the steering wheel, not saying a word, looking at her, eyebrows slightly raised.

Elaine saw that this trick was no longer working, so she could only pout and give up, and reluctantly went to pull the car door.

She turned back, "But I really have something ......

"

Darnell said, Next time you need to see me, go to Nicolas' restaurant and wait for me there."""

Elaine froze and spoke incredulously, "Really?"

Darnell said, "Stop running around."

I won't...... then I'll ...... every day from now on.

Darnell added, "Go back when it's important, I don't have time every day."

Elaine's face lifted into a smile and she nodded, "Good."

Go back.

Elaine happily got out of the car and ran back home.

As soon as she entered, she saw Franklin's sullen face ready to go out.

Elaine said, "Dad, what's wrong?"

Franklin stopped, his face easing slightly: "Elaine, where have you been?"

She knew that the bodyguards who were following her had probably been lost by Darnell's men.

Elaine honestly explained, "I went to lunch with Darnell."

Franklin frowned: "You ......"

Elaine immediately said, "Dad, I swear I didn't sneak off to see him, it was today...... When Aunt Maple was at the mall today, he happened to pass by and spoke up for me before I went... ..." Franklin's frown deepened, "What did Maple say about you."

Elaine threw her arms around him and pouted, pulling him inside: "Daddy, never mind all that unhappiness, you're not going to let me marry her son anyway, are you?"

Franklin patted her hand, "What Daddy promised you, he will do."

That's fine, anyway....... Anyway, when Darnell showed up, Aunt Maple was scared white and I was out of breath.

Franklin was silent for a while: "Elaine, avoid her from now on, and be careful when you go out."

Maple's husband is a foreigner, but he is unexpectedly, in this the whole the James family teamed up against Darnell's event, played a central role, behind a huge amount of money and other forces to support. This is also, why Maple will have so much courage to forcefully want to set a marriage contract with Elaine.

Elaine was previously married to Darnell, and Franklin and the old lady have remained neutral.

So even if Franklin chose them this time, they still have doubts, and the best way to make Franklin become one of them completely is, let Elaine marry.

But if their plans fall through, they may do whatever it takes.

Elaine nodded, "Dad, I know, I'll be careful."000☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 1008 Difficult to bear

Despite promising Darnell that he would only meet him at the restaurant if there was something important to do. But Elaine couldn't sit still for a full day at home, and ran out of the house with great enthusiasm.

The restaurant was still the same as when she had come before.

She found a corner with few people to sit, and after ordering a drink, she admired the view of the river outside.

After a while, the milk tea she ordered was delivered.

Elaine said thank you before realizing that the person standing in front of her was Nicolas. She was stunned and a little surprised: "You're back from Switzerland?"

Having said that, she suddenly remembered that Archer had said that Nicolas had been sent to Switzerland by Darnell.

That place where she doesn't know anyone, and now that she's back, Nicolas probably doesn't want to stay there.

Nicolas nodded and smiled, placing another tray of desserts on her table, "This is for Miss James."

Elaine said, "Thank you."

Nicolas' voice lowered a few notches: "Miss James is here to see......"

Elaine made a shushing gesture at him, "Don't tell him, I'm just bored at home and want to get out."

On the way here, Elaine thought about it, after all, she had only met him yesterday, and it would be bad to bother him all the time.

Nicolas will understand: "Then Miss James sit, if you need anything, just call me."

Okay, you go ahead and get busy.

After Nicolas leaves, Elaine looks out the window again, propping her hand on the table and resting her cheek in a daze.

At that moment, an uncertain female voice came from not far away, "Elaine?"

Elaine looked back, froze, and then a smile appeared on her face.

Natasha Osborne came over and sat in front of her, "Didn't you study in Switzerland, when did you come back?"

Been back for a few days.

You are really, why didn't you tell me when you came back.

Elaine spit out her tongue: "I've been doing a lot of things at home lately, and I haven't been going out much, I forgot......"

Natasha has been her best friend since childhood.

Thanks to her, too, a glance at Darnell made Elaine's heart begin to ripple.

Natasha also ordered a drink and said to Elaine, "But it's better to come early than never, it's my birthday tomorrow night, don't forget it." Elaine said, "Tomorrow night?"

Yeah. Natasha looked at her suspiciously, "You didn't forget my birthday, did you?"

No, no, no, no, I'm just ...... More words are sophomoric, Elaine said, "OK, I'll be there on time tomorrow night."

Natasha laughed: "That's more like it. By the way, how was Switzerland for you? Was it fun there? I've always wanted to travel there."

Elaine said, "It's okay for you to travel, but it's so hard for me to study there alone, it might as well be Riverside City."

So.

After they talked for a while, Elaine said, "Why did you come here alone?"

Natasha said, "Oh, I have a dinner date with my boyfriend."

Saying that, she looked at the time, "He should be here soon."

Speaking of this, Elaine thought about it and spoke tentatively, "Didn't you say before that...... you liked...... the man we met at the restaurant?"

At that, Natasha waved her hand: "I meet too many of these casual likes every day." Elaine: "......"

And, right, he looked at that person is quite difficult to contact, cold, a look of rejection of a thousand miles away. Handsome is handsome, but if you fall in love, it is estimated to be the hard to kill, I still like to have my eyes and heart. What's more, people can't see me, the phone is not given.

Elaine rested her head and said to herself, "He doesn't seem to be as...... good as you make him out to be."

Natasha's eyes locked on her, "What?"

Elaine retracted her thoughts, "No...... nothing."

Immediately afterwards, Elaine got up and said, "I have to go home."

Natasha pulled her back: "Don't go, my boyfriend will be here soon, I'll introduce you to him."

Elaine said, "Let's do it tomorrow, I won't be a light bulb for you today."

Natasha thought it would be okay, so let's do it tomorrow.

Elaine waved to her, "Bye."

Elaine went out just in time to meet someone coming in from outside.

She looked up and was stunned the second she saw the other person: "It's you."

Brendon was also a bit taken aback: "Miss James?"

During Elaine and Maple's argument yesterday, Brendon briefly stepped in to talk his mother out of it.

But more often than not, they just stay on the side in silence.

And since he can come with his mother to pick her up to go shopping, it means that he is tacitly aware of the engagement with her.

Therefore, Elaine did not have a good attitude towards him, just sidled to the side and then left quickly.

Brendon watched her back and walked thoughtfully into the restaurant.

Natasha waved at him from afar and complained when he came up to him, "What took you so long to get here, I've been waiting for you for a long time." Brendon said, "There was a delay on the way."

Natasha saw that he was distracted and asked, "What's wrong with you?"

Nothing, just met an acquaintance.

Natasha added: "Tomorrow for my birthday party, I plan to formally introduce you to my father, what do you think?"

At that, Brendon frowned, "It's too hasty, isn't it?"

Where is the haste, we have been together for six months, and isn't it just right to take advantage of my birthday party.

I do think...... it's not quite right, let's talk about it after a while......

Natasha looked at his stammering look and couldn't help but speak, "What's wrong with you this time, weren't you the one who always wanted to see my father before, why are you reluctant now?"

Brendon held her hand: "Natasha, I'm not unwilling, it's just that I'm not ready yet, and I'm also afraid that your father will not be satisfied with me. How about this, tomorrow for your birthday party, you tell your father that I am your friend, and then ask him what he thinks of me, if he thinks well of me, next time I will come to visit you alone, do you think this is okay?"

Natasha thought he had a point.

Half a minute later, she nodded, "Okay then."

Seeing that she agreed, Brendon went further, "I don't think you need to go home for your birthday tomorrow."

Natasha heard what he meant and blushed, "What if my dad asks me to go home with him."

Just tell your dad that you want to play with your friends a little longer and that you have a birthday, and he'll say yes.

Brendon lowered his voice: "Natasha, didn't you promise me that on the day of your birthday, we ......"

Natasha stammered, "Then...... let's talk about it tomorrow night and see how it goes......"

Brendon withdrew his hand in satisfaction, suddenly noticing that there was a water glass next to her. He asked, "This is?"

Natasha responded, "My friend was just there, you're a step late, let's introduce you tomorrow night."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 1009 how not to find a man to play

Elaine left the restaurant and went to the mall to buy a gift for Natasha before going home again.

Lying on her back, Elaine flipped through her phone, looking at the two photos she had snapped of Darnell yesterday, the smile on her face gradually widening. She rolled over, zoomed in and out of the photo on her phone, and finally cradled it in her arms with satisfaction.

Just then, the cell phone in his arms suddenly began to vibrate.

startled Elaine.

She hurriedly took her phone out, saw it was Archer calling, and picked up, "Hello."

Archer spoke slowly, "No more cousin."

She sat up, "Cousin, what can I do for you."

Archer said, "That band you like is touring Riverside City tomorrow night, my friend sent me two tickets, are you going?"

But my friend has a birthday tomorrow night. Elaine added, "Is the night after tomorrow okay?"

Of course not, someone else leaves the day after tomorrow. Archer said, "Okay, forget it if you don't have time, I'll give the tickets to the others." Elaine called out to him, "Cousin, ask a girl out. Didn't you say before that you want to find a girlfriend, don't waste such a good opportunity."

Archer: "...... I thank you for thinking of me so much, do you think I have girls around?"

Elaine thought about it and it really didn't seem to be there.

Archer spent his days either in his laboratory to study those bottles and jars, or home to sleep.

Apart from these two places, Elaine has hardly ever seen him on other occasions.

She seriously analyzed, "Because you are too gossipy, no girl will like a gossipy boy." Archer gasped: "Okay, from now on you don't ask me anything about Darnell, I don't gossip." Elaine immediately apologized for her recklessness, "No, no, no, I was wrong I was wrong!" She whispered: "You said you wanted to find a girlfriend, I was kind enough to give you a way." Archer didn't bother to pay attention to her: "Okay, okay, I'll go see for myself."

After hanging up the phone, Elaine searched for information on the band's performances. Surely there is only tomorrow.

Forget it, let's just say the timing is too unlucky.

In no time, Natasha sent her the address of tomorrow's birthday party.

Immediately after, Natasha sent her another dress and asked her which one looked best.

Elaine chose an almond-white dress for her.

Natasha called immediately, "You think this one looks best too, don't you? I like it too, so I'll wear it tomorrow!"

After choosing the dress, Natasha asked Elaine to choose the accessories for her.

By the end of the selection, Elaine had begun to yawn.

Natasha said: "Don't you be sleepy, the most most most last thing!"

Elaine braced herself for sleepiness in the spirit of the birthday girl being the oldest: "What else."

Natasha sheepishly took two things from the side and asked in a small voice, "Do you think I should wear pink tomorrow, or black ah?"

Elaine: "?"

Elaine: "......

She was in a trance and thought she had misread it, rubbed her eyes to clear her head a few times, her face full of confusion: "What did you choose this for?"

Natasha blushed even more: "My boyfriend and I, ready to do it tomorrow...... shall not be well chosen."

Her vague, Elaine still does not quite understand: "Ready to go swimming? But this pink and black I see that the material is quite thin, it will be transparent in the water, right?" Natasha: "......"

She turned red: "What are you talking about? It's...... just sex!"

Natasha intended half a day, Elaine only gradually reacted, astonished and wide-eyed, half a day can not speak out.

Elaine has been living in Switzerland for a year and is more open than in her home country, and there are students around her who are living together and in love.

But she and Natasha had been friends since childhood, and suddenly hearing her mention such things made her feel a little different.

That girl's shyness and fluttering, fiercely in the heart of running away.

In her mind, Darnell's face flashed instantly.

Immediately afterwards, the thoughts gradually developed in some uncontrollable direction.

Elaine shook her head hard, trying to calm herself down.

For a long time, she stammered and spoke, "I ...... I can't choose ......"

Natasha is also torn: "That...... that or else black is good, I read online that black is a sign of maturity and sexiness, men like it."

Elaine didn't answer, lost in thought.

Soon, Natasha added: "Elaine, do you think it will hurt, I've just been afraid of pain before, so I don't dare......"

Elaine whispers, "I don't know......"

"

Natasha sighed: You said you were in Switzerland for so long, how come you didn't find a man to have fun with, I have no reference value at all."" Elaine's face burned a little: ""Okay, I'm going to bed, I'll see you tomorrow."""

All right, all right, I'll dwell on it, good night.

Putting down her phone, Elaine fell into bed, but couldn't sleep.

It's full of messy stuff.

Waiting until the latter part of the night, well dazed and asleep, some dead memories suddenly began to attack her.

In the dream, Darnell came to hug her without his shirt on, and she obediently burrowed into his arms.

His body heat and breath were close to her ear.

The scene changed and Darnell was standing in the living room with her in his arms while she had her legs wrapped around his waist, wrapping them hard around his neck and rubbing them unconsciously.

The dream was so real that when Elaine woke up the next morning, the scene was still clearly imprinted in her mind.

Elaine stood in front of the mirror and looked at herself, thinking that the person inside looked like a female pervert. Blame it on Natasha!

She rubbed her hair and repeatedly admonished herself not to think about it.

Elaine looked down and washed her face with cold water, trying to put all those things behind her.

After washing up, she yawned and went downstairs.

Downstairs in the dining room, Franklin was eating breakfast when he saw her and asked, "Elaine, why are you up so early today?" Elaine sat across from him, picked up her glass of milk and said, "It's Natasha's birthday today and asked me to come over early." Franklin sniffed a pause, or uneasy admonition: "Don't play too late, and go home early when you're done."

Don't worry, I know all the friends and classmates that Natasha invited to her birthday party.

Franklin nodded and got up, "Then you have fun today, Daddy will go first."

Elaine gave him a wave, "Bye bye Daddy."

After breakfast, Elaine went back upstairs to put on her makeup.

When she was changing, she saw the clothes in the checkroom and was once again lost in thought.

There is not a single black.

It looks like it's time to go shopping in a couple of days.

She also wants to be a woman of mature character.

After changing her clothes, Elaine set off happily with a gift for Natasha.00000000000000

Chapter 1010 lest you get into trouble

At the birthday party, Natasha was already taking pictures.

When she saw Elaine coming, she quickly waved, "Elaine, come over here and let's shoot together."

Elaine walked over and handed her her birthday present in passing, "Happy birthday."

Natasha hugged her, "Thank you, love you!"

Elaine looked around, saw that there was no one there and asked, "Am I too early?"

Not early, not early, you came to stay with me for a while longer.

With that, Natasha asked the photographer to wait for her and dragged Elaine to the bathroom.

Seeing her mysterious look, Elaine couldn't help but follow suit and lower her voice: "What's wrong?"

Natasha pulled the neckline of her gown open a little, revealing a small cut of underwear, and blushingly spoke, "I ended up wearing pink ......" Elaine: "......"

She was silent for a few seconds: "Didn't you say that black is a sign of maturity and sexiness."

Natasha said, "But I still like the pink well, you think ah, when making love, I ......"

Elaine's temples jumped, not wanting to discuss this issue with her any further, that dream last night was driving her crazy.

She said, "Natasha, you're the one your boyfriend likes, not...... anyway, none of this matters."

Natasha had a smile on her face and nodded shyly.

Out of the bathroom, Elaine suddenly remembered something and turned back to remind, "Anyway, in short, just be careful and take safety measures."

Don't worry about it, I will, I'll share it with you tomorrow ......

Elaine hastily covered her mouth: "Stop it we, this kind of personal privacy, you do not tell me."

Natasha peeled her hand away, "Okay, okay, got it, I won't talk about it."

The two are best friends and usually share any little secrets together, plus Natasha is still nervous about this not happening and always feels that discussing it with Elaine can ease things.

It didn't take long for Natasha's friends to arrive.

Elaine knew them all as well, and after saying hello, they hung out together.

It wasn't until almost dinner time that someone asked, "Natasha, why isn't your boyfriend here yet?"

Natasha skimmed: "Just sent me a message, saying that there is something going on at home, come over later."

Another boy snickered, "It's not like he heard your dad was coming over too and got scared."

As we speak, Natasha's father arrives.

But he didn't stay long, just attended his daughter's birthday party, made an appearance and left.

As he left, though, his eyes fell on Elaine and looked at her several times, his face deep in thought.

Natasha dropped him off at the door and was wondering how to tell him he wasn't coming home for the night when Matthew Osborne opened his mouth, "Natasha, are you and the James family still hanging out?" He said so, but Natasha asked confused: "ah......Elaine is my friend, you know ah."

Matthew lowered his voice: "the James family is in a complicated situation, you'd better not get too close to her, lest you get into trouble."

Natasha frowned: "Dad, how can you say that? You didn't say anything when Elaine and I used to play together."

Before is before, now is now, you do not hear those rumors in Riverside City, the James family is going to change, Elaine and her father, will become the James family game victims, you stay away from her no harm. "I'm not listening."

Matthew looked at her with dissatisfaction: "You child, how can you not understand good words and bad words?"

Natasha carried her skirt back: "Anyway, I don't understand all your adult twists and turns, I just Elaine is my friend for one day and will always be my friend."

Only after they left did Elaine slowly emerge from the corner and exhale.

She was just going to come out and take a call.

Where did I expect to hear their conversation.

But Uncle Matthew is right, the James family is now in a situation that has long since gone far beyond her imagination.

The reason she can still be like now, every day, nothing to worry about, eat and sleep, sleep and play, and now and then to pursue their love.

It is because, her dad is protecting her with his best efforts.

Natasha returned to the ballroom and took a long time to see Elaine return. She went up to her and said, "Elaine, where have you been? It's time to cut the cake." Elaine smiled, "I'm going to the bathroom, Natasha, and I'm going home when you're done cutting the cake."

Why, it's still early, let's play a little longer.

My dad told me to go home early and I ...... wasn't feeling too well.

At that, Natasha nodded, "That's fine."

After blowing out the candles and singing the birthday song, this birthday party is also considered a successful completion.

Elaine was the first to leave, and other students and friends left one after another, and by almost twelve o'clock, Natasha was the only one sitting there.

Time passed, and when it was 12:30, Natasha got up and left.

She's been calling Brendon all day, except for that text message saying she'd be late, and it seems to have evaporated.

All of Natasha's expectations, sweetness, all fall short.

When she left the hotel, she found that it was raining heavily outside at some point.

She had already sent the driver away when her father left in the evening, and should not have listened to Brendon if she had known.

That's when the hotel staff came to her and asked, "Miss Osborne, do you need a ride home."

Natasha nodded listlessly, "Yes, thank you."

Then stand here for a moment and I'll send the driver over.

After the staff left, Natasha was left alone in front of the hotel again

A few drops of rain drifted in with the wind, and she shivered in the cold.

At this time, a business car stopped in front of her, followed by a drunken man coming down from above, walking staggering.

Natasha moved to the side with some fear.

The man, however, noticed her and looked over with narrowed eyes: "Quite a pretty little girl ah, standing here alone doing what, picking up ....... Natasha frowned and tried to walk towards the hotel.

picking up customers ah?"

Which know the man but directly blocked her way, reaching out to grab her arm: "Do...... not run ah, you say how much a night, I...... have plenty of money!"

Natasha subconsciously took two steps back to avoid his touch, but didn't pay attention to the steps beneath her feet and fell to the ground, where the pouring rain instantly drenched her entire body. Seeing that the man wanted to come closer and closer, with an increasingly disgusting smile, Natasha hurriedly got up from the ground, turned around and ran, shouting, "Help!"

If she hadn't been so scared, Natasha never knew that she could run several hundred meters in one breath.

As she ran, she looked back to make sure the man hadn't caught up with her.

But there was nothing to see but a blanket of rain.

Just as she breathed a sigh of relief, she didn't know what she had hit, and with a thud, she fell to the ground.

Archer, who witnessed everything with his umbrella next to him: "......"

What is this new bumper sticker technique?00000