Ch. 721..730

Chapter 721: Contract Termination

It was already half-past seven at night when Winnie reached the studio.

Perhaps it was because of the peak hour after work, the discussion about Winnie and Chassell reached another high point.

Not only did the public attention not die down, but it had taken a whole new dimension.

There were several customers in the studio. Winnie wore a face mask and a hat and quickly walked to Stella's office. She gently knocked on the door, which was quickly opened. Stella said, "Come in quick."

Winnie removed her face mask and heaved a sigh before asking, "What happened?"

Clarence sat on the sofa, looked at her, and asked, "Did you go to the Conrad Group?"

Winnie was speechless. How did they know?

Clarence seemed to have known the answer to his question. He spoke casually, "How did the Conrad Group explain to you?"

Winnie slowly sat opposite him and did not know how to respond.

After several seconds, she said, "They've agreed to return my Twitter account and let me clarify the matter on my own."

Clarence acknowledged and then asked, "How do you intend to do this?"

The video was edited. I will need to find the original video. Winnie replied.

Are you confident of getting it? Clarence asked.

Winnie was stumped as she did not know where to begin. It was obvious that the Conrad Group would not help her resolve this. So, she could only rely on herself. If just now she had submitted to the company's decision, then she had to swallow all her pride. But now she was at the forefront of this matter and the longer she dragged this, the worse it was for her.

Winnie was silent for a moment before she said, "There must be video cameras outside the apartment complex. Perhaps they had recorded the incident."

If you can think of this, then wouldn't the person who released this video have thought of it as well? Clarence said.

Winnie was startled and quickly looked up. She then asked, "Do you mean that the security footage had been deleted?" Clarence crossed his legs and said nonchalantly, "Of course."

Winnie frowned and pursed her lips. She did not expect that the Conrad Group would go to this extent.

Clarence then said, "There is one other way and I can help you."

Winnie asked, "What's that?"

Terminate your contract with the Conrad Group, Clarence said.

Winnie was stunned and mumbled, "Terminate?"

Clarence pushed the laptop towards her and said, "The lawyer letter had been drafted. The decision lies with you."

Winnie was stunned and did not understand Clarence's intention.

Clarence continued, "You should have noticed why you had been framed this time. If there is a first time, there would be a second and a third."

Winnie noticed that Clarence was being serious and she started to consider carefully what he said.

In fact, when she was outside the CEO's office, she already had the impulse to terminate the contract based on how Justin's assistant spoke to her. But she launched her career with the Conrad Group and struggled through the years. The Conrad Group also rewarded her well and she was indeed hesitant to part with it.

Clarence seemed to have guessed what she was thinking, so he said, "You should remember that I was the one who signed the contract with you and I gave you the support, not the Conrad Group." Winnie was dumbfounded. She did not think of the situation from that angle.

It was once too many to have met an unscrupulous boss. Regardless of how Justin was as a person, the actions of the current Conrad Group had disgusted her.

Winnie said firmly, "I'll terminate the contract."

She took out her phone and looked for the Twitter password that was sent to her. She then logged in to Twitter.

Twenty minutes later, the topic "Winnie and Chassell rekindled flame" was readily surpassed by "Winnie contract termination with the Conrad Group".

When this trend appeared, it took the internet and social media by storm.

Previously someone had deduced that the incident about Winnie and Chassell was created by the Conrad Group to deflect the public attention. When Winnie did not clarify her issue with Chassell but instead decided to terminate her contract with the Conrad Group, that proved that this person had deduced correctly.

Some people now felt that the Conrad Group was unethical in doing so. Some others said that regardless of what the Conrad Group did, the video was factual. They accused Winnie of using the contract termination to misdirect the discussion.

Winnie's fans now began to speak up for her.

Hey, use your brain to think carefully. A rumor compared with contract termination with the Conrad Group. Which one is more substantive?

Yeah, Winnie is the Conrad Group's leading star. If she terminates her contract at this moment, the breach of contract penalties would be immense. This is not even a matter about importance. It's a battle of integrity.

In other words, Winnie's contract termination was to signify her unhappiness with what the Conrad Group did to her today. What she did would offend numerous people. She even risked being blacklisted and might even exit the entertainment industry!

Come on guys, you all should be responsible for your comments. You guys accuse her of being guilty just because she did not make a public announcement. Now that she announced, you accuse her of trying to misdirect the public opinion. Nothing can satisfy you!

There were other opinions.

From what happened today, even if Winnie did not seek to terminate her contract with the Conrad Group, she would be close to the end of her career. All these were done to stir up her fans. You people still believe these!

If she dared to terminate her contract with the Conrad Group, then why doesn't she dare to explain her relationship with Chassell? Who would believe that she's innocent? What a joke!

Only her fans would believe what she said. Winnie had lost all credibility. I will never watch her works nor buy anything that she endorses.

Just when the public debate was at its peak, City N Press released a piece of news on Twitter.

It was the full clip of Winnie and Chassell. In this video, it was clear that Winnie was forcibly dragged by Chassell. Several security guards even went forward to chase Chassell away. Throughout the incident, Winnie's expression was shocked and frightened. It was totally unlike the rumormongers who said that they had rekindled their love.

Many expected this incident to end but numerous users went to City N Press's official Twitter account to leave nasty comments. They accused City N Press of siding with Winnie. When the previous incident happened, it was them who helped Winnie clarify that she did not break apart Chassell's family. Now the media was helping Winnie again.

Many now accused City N Press to have received money from Winnie to help clear her name. At this point, City N Press could not tolerate such accusations and posted another tweet.

City N Press: Ever since the founding of City N Press, we had always reported the facts and seeking for the truth. If one day truth can be twisted so easily, then what's the use of reporting the truth? How could the victims' voices be heard?☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 722: Won't Tell Your Sister

Winnie was puzzled when she saw the report on the internet and said, "Wasn't the security video deleted? Then where did this video come from..."

Stella explained, "Although the security video was deleted, don't forget that there were other cars around the entrance. Some of the cars had a dashcam."

Winnie had also thought of this but this happened a while back and it would be a huge task to find the cars that were there. Furthermore, she would have to search through their dashcam videos. That would take at least several days.

No wonder Stella asked her to come over. They must have known how to obtain the video and managed to locate it for her.

Winnie said, "Thanks."

Stella smiled and replied, "You're welcome. The dashcam video was not found by me. I just gave the video to a friend. That was a good piece of information for her to work with."

Winnie looked towards Clarence and said, "Thanks, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence stood up with one hand in his pants pocket, "No worries. It was just a lawyer's letter that I obtained with a phone call."

She wanted to say something but then something came into her mind and she hesitated. Then, her cellphone rang and it was her team who asked her about the contract termination.

The caller repeatedly tried to talk her out of it while Winnie calmly said, "I've already thought carefully about it. I will pay the penalties. Those of you who want to stay at the Conrad Group may do so. I also welcome those who are willing to leave with me."

Winnie simply ended the call after she said those. To avoid others from calling her, she thereafter turned off her phone.

Although she admitted that it was an impulsive move to terminate the contract, she did not regret her decision. When she walked out of the Conrad Group earlier that day, she had this feeling that she would no come back. This was a good opportunity for her to take a break from work.

Clarence looked at his wristwatch and said, "Let's go for dinner."

Winnie took a deep breath to compose herself and said, "You guys go ahead. I'll go back to think about all that had happened."

What's there to think? Or are you trying to get out of giving us a treat? Stella teased.

Winnie was speechless. How come she had to treat them to dinner?

Clarence said as he was walking out, "We helped you to save your contract termination penalties, shouldn't you give us a treat?"

Winnie was stunned as she thought, 'Saved what penalties?'

Stella grinned and took something out while she said to Winnie, "Didn't you extend your contract with the Conrad Group two months ago? He did not sign it."

Winnie stared with her eyes wide open and recalled this matter.

It was the same every year. Clarence would settle his other work first. These contracts were considered less important by him and he would not sign them immediately. Winnie also did not pay too much attention to it and did not realize that Clarence had not signed the contract.

Winnie was in disbelief and said softly, "He seems to have become a different person."

Stella smiled, "Actually he's a nice man except for the occasional quirkiness."

Winnie clicked her tongue and said, "Okay, let's go for dinner. Call them over, my treat."

Stella paused and asked, "Call who?"

Winnie hesitated before saying, "Er... all of them."

Stella nodded, "Okay, I'll message them."

Sherry was lazing the whole day at home and did not intend to go out for dinner but when she looked at the news about Chassell, she sprung up and was eager to join them to scold that scoundrel. She quickly got herself ready for the gathering.

During dinner, because Channing was there as well, she had another motive.

Sherry asked, "Channing, are there many boys in your class?"

Sherry's eyes lit up and asked, "Are they handsome? Do they have a good figure? Will they accept a relationship with an older woman?"

Winnie coughed and asked Stella, "What's wrong with Sherry?"

Stella grinned, "It's a long story..."

Elaine was busy eating when she raised her head and asked, "What? What?"

Stella chuckled and then served her some vegetables, "Nothing, eat."

At this moment, Clarence's phone started to ring.

Nathan said, "Mr. Conrad, I've checked. There were indeed signs of habitation at Daniel's house. The person had already left when we arrived. In the room, there were some medicines for bleeding and some syringes. I've sent them for testing and I suspect that they are knockout drugs."

Clarence asked, "Reasons?"

I found the latest security footage of the week and did not find any trace of Daniel. At five o'clock in the morning, a patrolling security guard saw a long-haired woman pushing a wheelchair towards the underground carpark. The man on the wheelchair appeared to be unconscious.

Nathan continued, "I've checked the car and it had temporary plates. The identity of the owner is fake."

Clarence remarked, "Understood."

Nathan made a guess, "Mr. Conrad, could it be that Daniel had been involved in something outside and now the woman is back for revenge?"

Shall I call him to ask? Clarence asked sarcastically.

Nathan paused and wondered why he was not curious about this.

Clarence then said, "Go to London now and tell William about the threats to Daniel. Additionally, don't tell him about the DNA tests but find an opportunity to do it."

Nathan understood his instructions. Even though they felt that Channing was most likely William's son, they should not announce it unless they were certain.

Clarence never did anything that he had no confidence in.

Nathan said, "But I do not have Channing's DNA."

Go to the airport now and I'll have someone send it over, Clarence said.

Okay, Nathan said.

Clarence ended the call and then proceeded to walk out of the private dining room. When he walked past Channing, he tapped on his shoulder and gestured him to go out. Channing was being hassled by Sherry for his friends' contact and took the opportunity to get out of the room with Clarence.

They walked to the smoking area and Clarence took out a cigarette and handed him one.

Channing did not accept.

Clarence calmly said, "I won't tell your sister."

Channing said, "I recalled that she didn't want you to smoke either."

Then do you think she'll allow you to smoke? Clarence replied.

Channing was speechless for a few seconds before he reached over to take the cigarette.

Clarence said, "Your sister asked me whether a twenty-something-year-old boy who falls for someone would usually be too shy to speak up."

Channing did not expect this and pursed his lips.

Clarence said, "Relationship is a two-people thing. If you think too much, you'll end up distancing yourself from her."

Channing said, "Didn't you divorce my sister because of others?"

Clarence looked at him and said slowly, "Are you so certain that she'll marry you?"

Channing was speechless.☐☐☐☐

Chapter 723: What Did You Do?

After a while, Channing crushed out the cigarette in his hand and said indifferently, "It's time to go back."

Clarence took out his phone, "You go in first. I'll make a call."

Channing nodded and turned towards the bathroom.

He had just returned to the door of the private room when he saw Winnie coming out of it, then stopped in his tracks.

Winnie was quiet for a few seconds before raising her hand to greet him, "Hi."

Channing said, "Where are you going?"

Winnie was going to go to the bathroom, but it wasn't a good idea to answer in this situation, so she made an excuse, "It's too stuffy in there. I'm going out for a walk."

Channing pursed his lips, "Come along then."

Winnie could only nod stiffly.

Downstairs, there were rockeries and pavilions. The sound of the fountain was soothing and calming to the mind.

They walked side by side, not too fast and not too slow.

After a while, Channing asked, "What are your plans for the future?"

Winnie let out a breath, "Let's talk about it tomorrow. Anyway, there's always a road ahead."

Channing kept his head down and didn't say anything.

Winnie inclined her head to look at him, and slowly clenched her hands hanging at the sides. He spoke softly, "Thank you."

Channing looked up, "What are you thanking me for?"

Winnie chuckled and looked ahead again, "Nothing. I just wanted to thank you."

Channing couldn't help but stop and look at her back.

Winnie took a few steps before she realized Channing wasn't following. She turned back, "What's wrong?"

Channing stood there and said calmly, "You asked me before what kind of girl I like."

Hearing his words, Winnie couldn't help but freeze. The words were on the tip of her tongue, but she didn't know what to say. She stammered, "Yes... yes ...'

Courtesy demands reciprocity. Then shouldn't you also tell me what kind of boy you like?

Winnie, probably not expecting him to ask that, stood there and didn't say anything.

Channing lifted his leg and stepped closer towards her.

As he stopped, Winnie quickly averted her eyes and joked, "I'm not a little girl anymore. I'm way past the age of 'what kind of boy I like'. There are no standards. On the contrary, you are at the right age to fall in love on campus, and it's a wonderful thing. You have to take your chances... Otherwise, it's gone if you miss it."

Channing simply ignored her words and said, "So what do you think of me?"

Winnie forced a smile, "You're good. You have good grades. You are smart and handsome. There are lots of girls who like you. You..."

Channing interrupted her, "That's not what I asked."

Winnie didn't know where to look. As she looked around, she turned her head and met Channing's candid and quiet eyes, as if waiting for her answer.

Winnie felt that she was short of breath and her heart kept racing.

At that moment, two girls passed by and were discussing Winnie and Chassell. It was obvious that they were probably Winnie's fans.

Channing was tall and good-looking. Even as he stood there doing nothing, he silently drew the eyes of passers-by.

Just as they looked over, Winnie suddenly felt her wrist being gripped.

The next second, she was dragged into the boy's arms.

He was wearing clean, short-sleeved trousers, and the unique hormonal scent of a teenager was hot.

The two girls couldn't help but squeal at the sight.

Did you see that? Did you see that? That boy is so handsome!

I saw it! Is he a star? Why do I think I've seen him somewhere?

I think he looks familiar too. And with his look, he'd be a big hit if he was a star. Is he an internet celebrity?

I don't know... Also, I think his girlfriend is pretty, and her back looks like Winnie.

Oh my God, if she looks like Winnie, she must be a gorgeous too. The two of them look good together.

I'm jealous again.

The two girls talked while turning back frequently.

It wasn't until they were far away that Channing let go of her hand.

Winnie finally reacted and took two steps back.

Channing said, "Sorry. I see you're not wearing a mask."

Winnie's cheeks flushed, not sure if it was from being held in his arms or what. She stammered, "No... it's fine. Let's go back."

With that, she turned around in a fluster and lowered her head as she walked forward.

Channing called out to her, "That way."

Damn it.

She turned back again and quickened her pace to leave.

Channing withdrew his gaze and looked down at his palm while he seemed to still feel the warmth of her skin.

In the private room, seeing that Channing had not returned, Sherry had started looking for another way and downloaded a lot of dating apps on her phone. Seeing this, Stella leaned closer towards Clarence and lowered her voice to ask, "What the hell is going on with Daniel? Did you find out?"

Clarence poured her another glass of water and spoke nonchalantly, "I'll tell you when I get back."

Stella looked at Sherry again and was a little worried.

Elaine, who had been slow to react once she had eaten, finally sensed what Sherry meant. She asked, "Sherry, are you looking for a boyfriend?" Sherry said, "Yeah, do you have any suitable relatives in your family to introduce me to?"

Elaine thought about it for a moment and said tentatively, "I have another uncle."

Hearing her words, Sherry became interested and asked, "Is your ANOTHER uncle handsome?"

Elaine nodded solemnly, "Yes."

He was indeed quite pleasant to the eye.

Sherry's eyes lit up, "Is he in good shape?"

Elaine thought for a moment and continued to nod, "Yes."

She hadn't seen it, but it should be okay.

Sherry said, "Introduce him to me!"

Just as she finished, Clarence's voice came from a short distance away, "Why don't you ask her what his name is?"

Sherry thought so and asked Elaine again, "What's your uncle's name?"

Elaine said, "Darnell James."

The fighting spirit that had just been aroused in her disappeared in an instant.

Was she joking with her?

Elaine said, "He's just a bit mean, but I've noticed lately that he seems only to be mean to me. The rest of the time, he's indifferent and silent, but not that intimidating." Sherry said, "Forget it. I'm not that lucky."

Stella fought back the urge to laugh and stroked Elaine's head, "Let's eat."

By the time Channing and Winnie returned, they had almost finished eating.

When they got out of the restaurant, Winnie said, "My driver is still waiting for me. I'll just go ahead."

With that, she ran away without looking back.

Stella looked at her back as she panicked and couldn't help but turn her head to Channing and ask, "What did you do?"

Channing looked away, "I didn't do anything."

Chapter 724: Just The Beginning

When she got home, Stella closed the door, moved her neck, and stretched.

Clarence hugged her from behind, kissed her ear gently, and whispered, "Are you tired?"

I'm fine. Stella tilted her head to look at him, "How are things going with Daniel?"

Clarence said, "You were right in your guess. He was taken away."

That woman ...

I've asked Nathan to check with William about her identity. We'll have the results by tomorrow at the latest.

Daniel shouldn't be in danger, should he?

Clarence said, "No. If the woman wanted to kill him, she wouldn't have just taken him away."

Stella thought about it and thought it made sense. It looked like it should be some kind of personal vendetta.

She pushed Clarence's hand away, "I'll go and tell Sherry then."

Stella had just taken a step when Clarence pulled her back, "We're not sure exactly what that woman's relationship with Daniel is yet. There's no point in you telling Sherry." Stella silenced. That was right.

Clarence said, "Well, aren't you tired? Go take a shower and go to bed."

Stella suddenly remembered something and looked over at him, "By the way, what did you call Chan out for today?"

I was just having a casual chat with him.

A casual chat? About what?

Clarence leaned closer to her and his thin lips curled, "You want to know?"

Every time he gave that look, nothing good could happen.

Stella said, "I suddenly lost the interest."

But I want to talk.

Stella, who had always been no match for him in terms of shamelessness, was taken to the bedroom to take a shower and forced to listen to what Clarence had said to Channing. That video was sent over by Channing this afternoon.

Although Stella didn't know exactly how he had gotten it, it must not have been that easy to get the crucial evidence in such a short time.

Before, she had always thought that Channing had a crush on Winnie.

But it was only recently that she realized that he seemed to really like Winnie.

He would give anything for her.

Stella and Channing had grown up together and she knew her little brother well. He would hardly ever have anything in particular that he liked, but if it was what he wanted, he would never change it.

As if sensing her lack of concentration, Clarence nibbled down on her shoulder and intensified his movements.

Stella finally retracted her thoughts. Her nails were embedded in his back and she could barely catch her breath.

After an unknown amount of time, the room fell silent.

Stella lay in Clarence's arms and asked softly, "Even though you didn't sign the contract and Winnie isn't really in breach of contract, what will happen after she offers to terminate her contract with the Conrad Group at this time? I think that the Conrad Group might target her ..."

Clarence kissed her brow, "Don't think too much about it. Winnie has commercial value. As long as she doesn't have any problems of her own, no one can do anything to her."

Stella was silent for a moment before she added, "Justin would have been able to guess that the reason Winnie offered to terminate her contract would probably have something to do with you."

So what if he can guess it? He's in his position to do his job. What's more, he wants Winnie out of the Conrad Group more than I do.

Stella was surprised, "Why?"

Clarence didn't answer and just closed his eyes, "Go to sleep."

Without Winnie, the Conrad Group would be able to promote new artists more legitimately.

Winnie was just the beginning.

After that, more and more of the old staff would leave the Conrad Group.

Seeing that he didn't want to talk about it, Stella didn't ask any further questions and slowly closed her eyes.

Sherry had just gotten out of the shower when she received a message from her mother.

Sherry said, "Mom, what's wrong?"

Mrs. Perry sounded angry, "Do you still know that I am your mother? How long has it been since you called me?"

Sherry sat down on the sofa and laughed, "I've been busy with work lately. What are you calling me for?"

What's wrong with Brandon that makes you look down on him?

Sherry was a little confused by her comment, "Which Brandon? How did I look down on him? I know what I am and what I don't have. Whom can I look down on?"

Mrs. Perry said, "Just the guy I introduced you to last time. Brandon, Brandon Chang! He came back today. I happened to see him so I talked to him. I think he's pretty good and better than that Liam Keith. Wait, you aren't still obsessed with that bastard, right?"

Mum! Stop your wild guess, okay? I don't look down on Brandon. I just ...

When she first found out she was pregnant, she directly sent a message to Brandon, saying that they weren't quite right for each other and that they didn't need to contact each other in the future. When did she ever say something to despise him?

Fine, I heard you. Don't make any excuses. You two just have too little contact. I told him that boys should take the initiative. And you, you should make some moves too. Don't you know how old you are? My classmate's grandson is in kindergarten! But you don't even have someone to get married with you!

Sherry's head hurt as she listened, and after talking to her for a few more minutes, she hung up the phone.

She put the phone down and looked at the messages that kept popping up on the screen.

They were all greetings from the people in the dating apps she had downloaded this evening.

Sherry wasn't even interested in reading them, and her head hurt even more when she saw the messages. She simply uninstalled all the apps again.

She sat down on the sofa, looked around and took a pillow, and put it on her lap.

When she looked down, she realized that the pillow was bought when she had gone to the supermarket with Daniel earlier.

Sherry reflexively threw the pillow on the floor.

She stood up and realized that many of the things in the house had been bought by Daniel, even the cutlery in the kitchen.

All of it had been bought when he was there to cook for her.

Sherry took out the cardboard box used when moving in and threw everything related to Daniel inside.

But it was too much and too heavy for her to carry, so she dragged it out little by little.

Sherry had just dragged it out the door and was about to press the button for the lift when the door next to her was opened.

Elaine poked her head out, "Sherry, what are you doing?"

Sherry said, "Throwing out the trash."

Elaine looked at the large box, "So much? Let me help you."

Together, the two got the cardboard box downstairs. While sorting them, Elaine looked at the cute dolls and pillows and asked, "Sherry, these are still new. Should we throw them away too?" Sherry nodded casually, and seeing that Elaine liked them, she said, "If you like them, just take them back."

Elaine just loved these cute plush dolls and immediately hugged a few in her arms, then said happily, "Thanks, Sherry!"☐☐☐☐

Chapter 725: You Should Get Used to Smelling It

On the other hand, Winnie received a call from her lawyer Donald Shawn after she returned, saying that he would accompany her to the Conrad Group tomorrow to finalize the termination of her contract. Many of her current work appointments were still related to the Conrad Group and needed to be communicated in detail.

After hanging up the phone, Winnie lay on the sofa for a while, then suddenly remembered something. She got up again, put on her face mask, and went downstairs.

When she reached the entrance to the community, she walked to the security office and knocked on the door, "Excuse me, I'd like to ask ..."

I remember you. You're Chan's girlfriend, right?

The security guard who had spoken added, "Did you want to ask about Chan? He came by this afternoon, asked us for a piece of security footage, and then left again." Winnie was a bit confused. The security footage of Chassell forcibly taking her away must have been edited. So which piece did Channing get?

The guard recalled, "I think it was the day that bastard from last time bullied you. I don't know why, but that footage is gone. Chan wants the footage from a little earlier."

Can I... have a look?

The guard poked out the window and looked around before telling Winnie, "Yes, but it's against the rules for us to give Chan the footage. You remember to keep it a secret for us." Winnie nodded, "Okay."

The security guard then showed Winnie the clip that Channing wanted.

Winnie stood there and kept staring at the computer screen.

The clip was shot supposedly a few minutes before she left the community. The only things on the screen were the parked cars and the people coming and going.

The image lasted for a while, then cut off abruptly and jumped to half an hour later.

The guard said, "That's all. There's a section in between that went missing."

Winnie said, "I got it, thanks."

You're welcome. Chan is really nice. So, if you need any help in the future, just ask us. I'll give you a phone number. If any suspicious people are wandering around your house, you can call us. Winnie took the number and said again, "Thanks."

After exiting the security office, she lowered her head and walked around the neighborhood.

Judging from that security footage just now, Channing must have used the footage to find out the owners of those cars parked on the side of the road, and thus he obtained the dashcam video and sent it to City N Press.

If it wasn't for Channing, she wouldn't have thought of this solution and would probably still be criticizing by the public.

After walking for a long time, Winnie took off her face mask and exhaled, then looked up at the sky.

The moon was bright in the dark night sky, with a few stars dotted around it.

She had been on this road for far too long. After what happened to Chassell a few years ago, she was so used to the fickleness of human nature that her heart had long since gone numb. But she had never expected that her heart would one day be warmed by someone else.

And it was a boy six years younger than her, who was intelligent, serious, responsible, and committed.

In the past, this was something she could not even think about.

How could she not be moved?

When Channing asked her today what kind of boy she liked, she almost blurted out, "Someone like you."

But no.

Channing was only twenty years old and his future was promising. He would achieve so much that she could never reach.

What made someone like her think she was worthy?

At the Conrad Group.

Justin sat in his wheelchair and looked out the floor-to-ceiling windows. He seemed calm and impassive, and no one knew what he was thinking.

After a while, the assistant came in with the documents and said, "Mr. Conrad, we found Winnie's previous contract. But... it's no longer valid. I asked her team and they said that two months ago, there were papers sent to the president's office for the contract renewal."

Justin didn't say anything and remained expressionless.

The assistant added, "I'll go look for it again."

Justin finally spoke, "No need."

He pushed his wheelchair to his desk, "Leave that to the legal department. Just deal with it by the process."

Justin added, "How's the New Coast project coming along?"

Everything is going according to plan. There are already a number of companies that are looking at the trend of New Coast and want to take a stake in the project.

Justin curled his lips, "I'm going back."

An hour later, the black car pulled slowly into the Conrads' Mansion.

The mansion, once a symbol of status and position, was now desolated and forlorn.

It was a forgotten place and was no longer in its former glory and bustle.

After getting out of the car, the assistant pushed Justin forward.

When he reached the first floor and passed Dempsey's room, the maid came out with the sheets in her arms.

Seeing Justin, she hurriedly said, "Master Justin."

Justin glanced at the sheet in her hand, "You can leave."

The maid nodded and left.

Justin pushed the wheelchair himself and went into Dempsey's room.

The curtains were still drawn in the room and not a single ray of light filtered in. Only the sound of water dripping down was heard in the empty room.

Justin turned on the wall lamp by the bed, looked around, and spoke indifferently, "Do you smell an awful odor in this room?"

As he finished, Dempsey, who was lying unmoving as if dead on the bed, began to struggle desperately as if he had been stimulated by something.

But he had forgotten that of his entire body, only his eyes were able to move. He made a dull, raspy sound that was unpleasant to the ear.

Justin added, "But that's fine. After all this time, you should be used to smelling it."

In the dim light, Dempsey stared at him with bleary eyes. His eyes and cheeks were sunken and tinged with a morbid blackness, and his lips were dry and chapped. And he no longer had any semblance of his former dignity and invincibility.

His daily nutritional intake just came from the infusion bottle hanging over his bed.

Other than that, he hadn't even drunk a drop of water.

Justin looked at him, "Are you tired of this? Are you already regretting that you chose the wrong person in the first place? If it was Clarence, at best he would have killed you, and he wouldn't have tortured you like this."

Dempsey made more slurred noises, like he was cursing him.

Justin laughed, "Since you had chosen Clarence twenty years ago, if you had stuck with it, none of this would have happened. Do you know which step you took that went wrong?"

Justin continued, "You went wrong by wanting everything. You wanted the Conrad Group, you wanted to control Clarence, and you wanted to hold him, a ticking time bomb that could go off at any moment, tightly in your hands as a way to negotiate with the James family, so everything would go as you arranged it."

Unfortunately, your abilities couldn't match your ambition. That's why you're in this situation today.

Chapter 726: You Smiled More Brightly When Divorcing Me

The following day, when Stella was still sleeping, Clarence held her up from the bed.

She opened her eyes in a daze. Looking out the dark sky outside, she asked, "What's the matter?"

Clarence pecked her on her forehead. "I'll tell you later. Go tidy yourself up."

Seeing his expression, Stella didn't think anything serious had happened. Hence, she closed her eyes again, fell on the bed, and was about to continue to sleep. However, two seconds later, Clarence held her again. This time, he carried her into the bathroom directly.

Stella had to open her eyes.

She struggled to let Clarence put her down. "All right. All right. I got it."

Clarence helped her squeeze the toothpaste, rubbed her hair, and said, "I'm going to buy breakfast. What do you want to eat?"

Stella pressed the toothbrush into her mouth and muffled, "Anything. I'm not picky."

After Clarence was gone, Stella sat on the toilet with the toothbrush in her mouth in a daze.

The wretched man didn't let her sleep last night, but he woke her up so early this morning.

After she had been sitting there for a long while, Stella finally plucked herself up, brushed her teeth, and washed her face with the cold water. She finally sobered up. She went back to the bedroom and checked the time. It was even not seven yet.

She inwardly blamed Clarence.

While yawning, she walked out.

A glass of water had been ready on the table. The temperature was just right.

After Stella drank the water, Clarence happened to come back.

While having breakfast, Stella asked, "We got up so early today. What are we going to do later?"

Clarence said slowly, "Do something you've already forgotten."

She wondered what she had forgotten.

After a few seconds, she still couldn't ring the bell. Stella gave up.

When she went back to the bedroom to get dressed after breakfast, she saw a white dress in an evident place in the cloakroom. Two rings were next to it.

One was the ring that Clarence used when proposing to her. The other one was the ring that he bought from the auction. Stella curled up her lips into a smile when seeing them and finally recalled what she had forgotten.

Stella didn't go out until Clarence had waited for fifty minutes outside.

She was wearing a white dress. Her hair was slightly curled, loose at her shoulders. She had light makeup.

She looked stunning.

Stella tossed her hair and said, "Let's go."

Clarence raised his eyebrows slightly, stood up, and walked to her. "You look gorgeous."

Stella had used to his sweet talks already. She took the initiative and asked, "When am I not?"

He answered calmly with ease, "You get prettier every than the day before, and you're particularly beautiful today."

Stella blushed because of his compliment. She asked, "Why?"

Clarence took her hand and walked out. "It's because you'll become Mrs. Conrad today."

Before they set off, Clarence asked Stella to give her cell phone to him.

Stella gave it to him, fastened the seat belt, and asked in confusion, "What are you doing?"

Clarence turned off her phone, tossed it into the glove box, pulled out his phone, and did the same thing.

He answered indifferently, "To avoid being interrupted."

Stella said tentatively, "What if something happens?"

Clarence looked up at her. "Even if something happens, it can't be resolved in one or two hours."

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at the entrance of the city hall.

It wasn't a particular day, so not many couples came here for registration, but it was still packed with people.

All of them were gathering at the door solemnly, seemingly discussing something.

Clarence had a bad hunch.

Seeing that, Stella said, "I'll go check what's going on."

Clarence hummed. After she got off, he found a place to park the car.

When he came back, Stella already learned what happened from the crowd and she walked to him.

When she got closer, Clarence pressed his lips and frowned a bit. "Yes?" he asked.

Stella heaved a sigh, frowning more deeply. "They said the computer system of city hall broke down, so we can't get registered today..."

Seeing his extremely annoyed look, Stella burst into laughter. "I was kidding. The system works well. It's not the office hour yet, so they were just chatting at the door." Clarence raised his head and looked over. Sure enough, people started to wait in line.

He gritted his teeth a bit, wrapped his arm around Stella's waist, and whispered, "Make fun of me, huh?"

Stella still smiled. "I... was just kidding. You are way too nervous."

I'm not.

Upon noticing others' gazes, Stella hit his chest gently and blushed. She said, "Let go of me. They are watching."

Clarence suddenly lowered his head and whispered in her ear.

Stella blushed more, uttering a word, "Honey."

Clarence smiled more brightly, letting her go.

Stella took a few steps back immediately to distance herself from him.

However, before she stood still, Clarence took her hand, pulling her to wait in the line.

The couples in the front recognized them. They pulled out their phones and took photos of them.

Soon, the city hall's gate was opened.

They filled out the application forms. Then they would take photos, get the marriage certificates, and make vows.

They were going through the procedure for the second time, but it felt like it was the first time. When sitting in front of the camera, Clarence kept staring at Stella.

In the end, the cameraman couldn't stand it. "Excuse me, Sir... You should look at the camera."

Clarence turned around and looked at the camera expressionlessly.

The cameraman was speechless.

Tricky business.

Stella lowered her head, grabbed Clarence's hand, and smiled at the camera again.

The cameraman hurriedly said, "Good. Good. Sir, please get closer to your wife..."

After walking out of city hall, Stella looked at the photo on her marriage certificate. When she raised her head, she found Clarence was staring at her.

Stella subconsciously rubbed her face, thinking there might be something dirty. She whispered, "What's wrong?"

Clarence said, "I just feel that you smiled more brightly when divorcing me."

He was indeed a joy killer.

After a moment of silence, Stella said, "We can go back to divorce..."

Before she finished her words, the marriage certificate in her hand was snatched by Clarence. He put it together with his in his jacket pocket. "It'll never happen." Stella looked at him, a brighter smile blooming on her face. Her eyes were beaming.

From afar, the sun was rising.

Clarence raised his eyebrows. Suddenly, he said, "My remark just now was wrong."

You do look much happier now.

After finishing his words, he took her hand, walked forward, and curled up his lips into a smile. "Let's go, Mrs. Conrad."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 727: So Fast

When Stella went back to the studio, it was almost noon.

As soon as she entered the office, Sherry walked to her and asked knowingly, "Where is Mr. Conrad?"

He has a lot of work to deal with in Steward Group, so he went over.

Sherry sat opposite Stella, raising her eyebrows. "Why don't you go dating or something?"

Stella opened her draft book. "It's still daytime. We both have a lot of work to deal with."

It's different. Haven't you just gotten the marriage certificates?

She asked, "How did you know?"

Sherry pointed at her phone. "It's spread online already."

Upon hearing it, Stella picked up her phone and browsed.

The photos were all from the side or back of her and Clarence in low pixels. However, they could be recognized.

One photo was taken when they came out of the city hall and stood on the steps.

The sun was hanging behind them, warm and bright. She was smiling happily. Clarence tilted his head to look at her, curling up his lips.

Stella liked this photo a lot, so she saved it to her phone.

Sherry said, "The last time when you smiled so brightly was the day when you got divorced."

Rarely, Sherry and Clarence shared the same opinion.

After a thought, she asked, "Sherry, was I being thrilled when divorcing him?"

With her chin on her hand, Sherry recalled and said, "Yes, you were, but it was more like a relief to you. You were full of hope for your future. Obviously, you had felt tired and disgusted for the life earlier." Stella said, "It seemed those things had just happened yesterday."

Sherry continued, "But it was already over a year ago. So many things have happened in the past year."

That was true. She was so overwhelmed by those things once that she didn't think she could make it. However, unexpectedly, she still hung on.

Stella picked up her phone again. Staring at the latest photos that Archer had sent to her, she looked down.

The baby was growing up day by day. However, she seldom had time to be with him.

Sherry and Stella heaved sighs in unison, staring out of the window. They were lost in their thoughts.

At six o'clock in the evening, when Stella was drafting, there were a few knocks on her office door. Elaine poked her head in and said, "Excuse me, Stella. Someone wants to see Sherry."

Stella didn't raise her head. "Isn't she in?"

Elaine answered, "I didn't find her next door. Probably she's gone to the factory."

Stella said, "All right. Take the visitor to the lounge. I'll be right there."

She stood up, stretched, and took this chance to have a walk outside.

Arriving at the lounge door, Stella knocked on it, pushed it open, and entered.

The man stood up when hearing the sound, nodding slightly at her.

Stella had met this man before. He used to blind date Sherry.

The man spoke, "Nice to meet you. I'm Brandon Chang, a friend of Sherry's. Isn't she here?"

Stella answered, "She must be out. I've messaged her just now. She should be right back."

Brandon nodded. "Thank you so much."

You are welcome. What would you like to drink?

He pointed at his paper cup. "I've got water already."

Then he said, "You must be Ms. Radomil. Sherry often tells me about you."

Stella smiled. "Yes, I am. I've been knowing her for ages."

After exchanging a few words, Brandon said, "Ms. Radomil, you can leave me here if you are quite busy. I will wait for Sherry to come back." Stella said, "Okay. Please suit yourself."

Out of the lounge, she saw Elaine trot to her. "Stella! Stella, who is that? Sherry's new boyfriend?"

Stella knocked on her head. "Stop talking nonsense. Go back to your work."

Elaine bulged her cheeks and said with concerns, "He looks like a good-tempered man. Uncle should have no chance."

After a while, Sherry came back. "What's wrong? Who wanted to see me?"

Stella pulled her aside. "Brandon Chang."

Sherry was taken aback. "My mother is so fast."

"Did Mrs. Perry try to bring you together again?”

Sherry nodded. She called me last night and told me Brandon Chang had come back to his hometown..."""

Sherry briefed it to Stella and added, "I'm so impressed by my mother. I'll go inside and talk to him."

Stella pulled her to stop. "Sherry, in fact, Daniel..."

Sherry patted her hand and said in understanding, "It's alright. I've let go of him. Probably three-legged toads are rare, but two-legged men are everywhere. He is past tense now. I want to reject Brandon because I don't have a crush on him. It's not because of Daniel at all."

After finishing her words, Sherry entered the lounge.

Looking at her receding figure, Stella shook her head with a smile.

If Sherry had truly let go of Daniel, she wouldn't mention him deliberately.

When Sherry entered the lounge, Brandon was on the phone. Seeing Sherry, he said to the person from the other end of the line, "Aunt, Sherry's back now."

Sherry's mother said something, so Brandon handed his phone to Sherry. "Sherry, Mrs. Perry wants to talk to you."

Sherry looked quite frustrated. Taking over the phone with her both hands, she put it next to her ear. "Mom..."

Mrs. Perry chided, "Where have you been? You made Brandon wait for you for such a long time."

Sherry whispered, "I was... dealing with my work."

Enough. I don't care. Now, Brandon deliberately went to meet you. You'd better stop being arrogant.

"When did I...”

Anyway, you should spend more time with Brandon and get to know him more. Don't end so quickly as last time. I'm doing this for your own good. You're alone in City N. No one helps you. If something happens to you, your dad and I..."""

Upon hearing her nagging, Sherry hurriedly said, "OK. OK. Mom, I got it. I've gotta go."

Then she quickly hung up the phone and gave it back to Brandon. "Sorry for making you wait."

Brandon took over his phone and said with a smile, "It's alright. I'm willing to."

Sherry scratched her head. "Well... I want to treat you to dinner as an apology."

Brandon didn't refuse but nodded with a smile.

Sherry said, "Please wait for a few minutes more. I still haven't finished my work yet."

It's alright. Please take your time. No hurry.

Sherry smiled at him and walked out of the lounge.

She went to the tea room, panting, fanning with her hand. If she didn't resolve this matter kindly, she might not be able to go home in the future.

Her mother truly knew how to make it tough for her.00000

Chapter 728: Wish You a Happy Marriage

Seeing that Sherry left with Brandon, Stella exhaled and withdrew her gaze.

Elaine followed Stella into her office, sitting opposite her, resting her chin on one hand. "Stella, is Sherry dating?"

Stella shook her head. "Not really. She..."

For a moment, she didn't know how to explain to Elaine about this matter.

Elaine sighed. "In fact, I can tell it."

What can you tell?

Sherry doesn't have a crush on that man.

Stella smiled. "How can you tell it?"

Elaine said, "When you look at Clarence, your eyes are full of stars."

Elaine continued, "When Sherry looked at that man, she looked as if she were forced. Probably her parents forced her to date him. However, she didn't seem to dislike this man, but only taking him as a friend." Stella asked curiously, "How do you know it's her parents' idea?"

Elaine curled her lips. "I have such an experience on this matter."

Stella smiled faintly. That made sense.

She had almost forgotten that Elaine secretly followed them to City N because she escaped from her engagement with Darnell.

Elaine thought for a while and asked, "Stella, what's the feeling of loving someone? Why didn't I feel anything special?"

Stella answered, "It's because you haven't met the one you truly love."

Earlier, Elaine said she liked Clarence because she wanted to cancel her engagement with Darnell.

Later, she met Channing, she felt shy. However, it was normal for girls of her same age who had met attractive boys. Elaine rested on the desk. "I also hope to meet a man one day that when I look at him, my eyes will be filled with stars." Stella said, "You will."

The restaurant.

After ordering, Sherry coughed. "Well..."

Brandon said, "I'm sorry, Sherry. I didn't make an appointment ahead before coming to meet you."

Sherry hurriedly waved her hand. "Please don't say that. I should apologize to you. It's my mother's fault. Please don't take her words to your heart."

Sherry knew her mother well. She guessed Brandon must have listened to her mother nagging after he had been back.

Brandon smiled. "Mrs. Perry didn't nag much. She just cares about you."

Sherry heaved a sigh. "I know she cares about me. But..."

Seeing that she wanted to speak but hesitated, Brandon continued, "Since we have a chance to sit and chat again, I won't beat around the bush. Sherry, since I saw you at first sight, I have had a crush on you. We had a pleasant conversation. But probably that's only my feeling."

He continued, "Hence, I wanted to come to see you this time. Mrs. Perry also gave me such a chance. If I've done anything wrong, please let me know. We should get used to each other when being together." Sherry said, "No. No. It's my own problem. My problem..."

However, she couldn't tell him what her problem was exactly. If her mother knew it, she would be scolded to death.

Brandon added, "Sherry, I'm not a male chauvinist or what. I can accept that you used to have boyfriends before. I used to have girlfriends before as well. But, please let the bygones be bygones. The future is more important, isn't it?"

Sherry's lips parted, but she couldn't retort.

What Brandon said made sense.

He went on, "I believe you can feel it. Our parents like us. Hence, in terms of getting along with parents, you shouldn't have any problem. I'm wondering if we can try to see each other on this base?"

You don't have to reply to me in a rush. Just think about it. After all, we both are no longer kids. We must be responsible for our parents and us.

Since he had said so, Sherry could only nod slightly in agreement. "Okay."

Soon, the dishes were served.

Brandon took the chance to change the subject. "Let's eat."

At seven o'clock in the evening, Stella got out of the studio and saw Clarence walk to her.

She asked, "Have you waited for a long time?"

Clarence said, "Just arrived. I've checked the time."

Stella gave a small smile. "Let's go."

As soon as she spoke, Elaine approached. "Are you going to dine in a restaurant? Where are you going?"

Clarence grabbed her collar and lifted her away. "None of your business. Go home."

Elaine stuck her tongue out to him. While trotting, she waved at Stella. "Stella, I'm not holding you up now. I'm going home." Stella said, "Be careful on the way. Message me after arriving home."

After Elaine was gone, Clarence took Stella's hand. "Stop watching. She won't go missing. It's quite near from here."

Stella withdrew her gaze and asked, "Where are we going?"

Clarence said, "We'll go to a place where there are only two of us. No interruption."

Half an hour later, he parked the car at the gate of Starry Lake Mansion.

Clarence took her hand and led her in, passing the garden fully decorated with star-shaped lamps.

The floor in the house was covered with rose petals. Warm candlelight was flickering along with the pleasant and gentle melody. It was so romantic. Clarence raised her hand and pecked on it gently. He muttered slowly, "Welcome home, Mrs. Conrad.”

Stella looked around, tears welling up in her eyes.

This place was her dream home.

However, after the apartment was remodeled, she only moved in and stayed for a few days before moving out.

But this home was still incomplete until now.

Seeing that she lowered her head, Clarence could guess what was in her mind. Rubbing her head, he said, "I'll take you to Riverside City this weekend."

Upon hearing it, Stella raised her head. Her eyes twinkled. "But, didn't you say..."

Clarence raised his eyebrows. "The marriage gift?"

Stella was taken aback. Then she smiled again.

Clarence took her to the dining table. "Let's eat first."

Stella sat down, looking at the food on the table. "Are they all prepared by Alisa?"

I prepared them.

Stella gaped in silence.

Clarence poured a glass of wine and pushed it to her. "I invited the chef from your favorite restaurant to make these."

Stella stopped holding her breath.

She was prepared to go to the hospital after this meal.

Clarence picked up the glass in front of him, clinked with hers, and said slowly, "Wish you a happy marriage, Stella.”

All things that happened in the past appeared in her mind. Stella smiled. "Wish you a happy marriage, too, Clarence."☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 729: God Had His Plan

More than a year ago, when Stella said "wish you a happy divorce" to Clarence, she had never thought that they would wish each other happy marriage again one day.

She felt so amazed.

It seemed that God had the plan for them already.

After dinner, they lay on the sofa. Clarence took Stella's hand, appreciating the ring on her finger. "I thought you'd wear the other one today."

Stella nestled on his chest, following his gaze. "This one is good enough."

Although that ring has special meanings, this one is different because you gave it to me when proposing to me. Stella paused and added, "That one is too expensive. I'm afraid to lose it." Clarence was speechless.

He said, "The last two sentences are unnecessary."

Stella burst into laughter.

They didn't speak again, leaning against each other in peace, enjoying this quiet moment.

After a while, Stella asked, "Have you found any news about Daniel?"

She frowned slightly. "You must hurry up. Or, Sherry will go blind date with another man."

Clarence asked, "Do you want her to be with Daniel?"

They like each other, don't they? Shouldn't they...

But you should know. Their feelings for each other won't last long. It's not strong enough to bring them to marriage.

Stella parted her lips but couldn't retort.

Clarence added, "Sherry's parents wished her to find a man who has a stable job and treats her well. He shouldn't be someone to spend the rest of his life with her just because they like each other." Stella was silent. Daniel believed in the non-marriage doctrine. Earlier, when Sherry was pregnant, according to her words, they were just life partners.

Although Daniel didn't evade or deny the responsibilities on this matter, he still didn't plan to marry Sherry.

Sherry was quite worry-freed, so she didn't care. She even thought that they could raise the child separately. However, those were just based on idealism. Sherry's parents would never accept it.

Now it came to this end, and Sherry must return to reality.

Clarence continued, "In terms of love, she knows what she wants more clearly than you do. You can just tell her what you've known. She will know what she should do next. As for the relationship between Daniel and that woman, and whether he would come back to City N, it's the matter between them only."

Stella heaved a sigh in silence. She whispered, "I got it."

Clarence could always poke at others' sore spots, but his words often made sense.

It wouldn't be a good ending if Sherry and Daniel kept their own ways of living.

If they couldn't get married in the end, they'd better separate as soon as possible to reduce their losses.

Stella pulled out her cell phone and checked the time. Then she stood up from his arms. "It's getting late. Let's go home."

Clarence looked at her intensely. "Have you rested enough?"

Stella said, "I..."

Before she finished her words, her lips were sealed.

Probably it was because of the effect of the alcohol. Stella felt dizzy after being kissed by him shortly. Her mind was in a mess.

Clarence put her on the sofa, pecking on her forehead. "Do you know what day it is today, Mrs. Conrad?"

Stella looked at him in a daze.

Clarence clenched her fingers and said, stressing each syllable, "It's our anniversary today. In the future, on this day every year, I'll always be with you." They ended in here, so they must start from here.

Before Stella answered, he kissed her again.

Stella's mind was blank. She could only let him do whatever he wanted.

Overwhelmed by his heated breath, suddenly, she felt a cool breeze.

Stella was brought back to her senses in difficulty. She said between broken gasps, "The window... isn't closed... The curtain... Ah..."

Clarence asked hoarsely, "Let's go back to the room?"

Stella pressed her head in his arms. She was too exhausted to speak.

Clarence carried her upstairs. The candlelight flickered in the living room under the breeze. Two marriage certificates could be faintly seen on the sofa.

It seemed everything had returned to the start, but everything seemed to be different.

After Sherry went back home, she received a call from her mother. For the next half an hour, her mother talked about life and living attitude with her.

Her mother was right. Regarding family background, education, and work, Brandon was the most suitable man for her.

Besides, she had some common topics with Brandon earlier. Their values matched. They got along harmoniously.

As for Daniel and her, Brandon was right; it's normal that they had boyfriends or girlfriends before.

Sherry downloaded so many dating apps earlier just because she wanted to forget Daniel and restart.

Since she had decided to restart, why couldn't she choose Brandon?

After dating Liam and Daniel, Sherry felt that she genuinely had lost the courage to fall in love with another man. She seemed to have no such feeling any longer.

She believed that Brandon must think that they fit, so he said he had a crush on her.

Many people longed for love. However, in the end, they would choose a suitable man or woman to get married.

After getting married, they would lead a peaceful, simple, and harmonious life.

With the most special person hidden in their hearts, they would respect their spouses and spend the rest of their lives together.

Sherry guessed probably she would end in this way.

A couple like Clarence and Stella was pretty rare.

Back then, they also divorced. If it weren't that Clarence was ruthless and cheeky enough, they wouldn't remarry.

Sherry lay on the sofa, looking out of the window.

She didn't want to struggle any longer. She decided to compromise.

Sherry stood up and was about to take a bath before going to bed. She heard the doorbell.

Opening the door, she saw Elaine and asked, "It's so late now. Are you still awake?"

Elaine showed the bag behind her back. "Sherry, look what I've brought you."

It was the snacks from the food stalls nearby the college where Sherry used to take her to try.

Sherry said, "Did you go there alone? It's so far away."

Elaine said, "I took a taxi there. It's not too far. I guess you must want to have them, so I bought some for you."

Sherry smiled. "You are right. I still have some beer in my fridge. Good timing. Come on in."

Elaine followed her. "Sherry, Stella said you can't drink."

Sherry turned around and gestured to shush her. "It's no big deal that I drink a little bit. It'll be alright. Please don't tell her."

Elaine also gestured. "Only a little bit then."

Sherry rubbed her head with a smile. "You're adorable."‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒‒

Chapter 730: Demon’s Palace

Three o'clock in the early morning, Elaine was sleeping soundly, when she was wakened up by the doorbell all of a sudden.

She tossed about on the bed for a long time and covered her head with the quilt, trying to block the noise, but the doorbell kept ringing. Elaine couldn't bear it any longer. She walked to the door in anger. "It's so late. What are you doing? You..."

Ms. James.

A man working for Darnell was standing at the door.

Seeing him, Elaine sobered up a bit. "What's the matter?"

The man checked his watch and said, "Ms. James, you only have ten minutes to get packed. Master of Riverside is waiting for you downstairs."

Elaine was confused. "Where to?"

But I... Elaine was still spacey. She looked around. "I haven't got ready yet. Ten minutes are not enough."

The man rechecked his watch. "Nine minutes left."

Be reasonable, OK? Who can get ready in only ten minutes?

Master of Riverside has given you half an hour, Ms. James. However, you've wasted the previous twenty minutes. The man reminded her again, "Eight minutes left..." Before he finished his words, Elaine had already rushed back to her room.

She pulled out her suitcase, opened the closet, grabbed her clothes, and threw them inside. Then she found that she couldn't put in other things.

She thought that clothes could be bought when she went back.

Hence, Elaine took out the clothes again and put in some things she bought after coming to City N.

When she rushed to the door with her suitcase, the ten minutes were over.

Let's go, Ms. James.

Elaine panted, followed him into the elevator while dragging the suitcase.

As soon as the elevator door closed, Elaine saw her reflection on the wall, only to find that she was still in pajamas and slippers. Her hair was messy as well. She gaped.

She whispered, "Well... May I go back to get changed? Please give me five minutes. Well, no, two minutes... One minute?"

The man looked over at her. "Ms. James, you can get changed on the jet later."

Elaine pulled a long face. "I didn't bring any clothes."

The man said, "Ms. James, you should know Master of River's temper well."

His kindly reminder stopped Elaine from going back to get changed.

She believed her life was more important than changing her pajamas.

When she arrived downstairs, the man took over Elaine's suitcase. "Please sit in, Ms. James."

Elaine hummed and pulled the rear door open. When she was about to get in, she found Darnell was also in the backseat. She immediately closed the door, walked to the passenger's seat, and sat down. Darnell didn't react during the whole process.

The car was driven steadily on the way.

Elaine was woken up from her dream. In the silent car, she felt sleepy gradually.

Soon, she tilted her head and fell asleep.

Darnell said indifferently, "Let Vincent follow Caesar James. Once Caesar James comes back to Riverside City, inform me immediately."

Yes, Master. The man asked, "Shall we tell Clarence Conrad about the information we've found recently?"

They followed the clue of Riverside City, only to find that it wasn't Joanna who was in touch with the James family.

Joanna even didn't know the existence of the James family.

Darnell was expressionless. "Do you think he has quit Conrad Group because he didn't know about it?"

Elaine had a dream. She was a bunny in the dream.

One day, when she was sleeping in her nest, she was caught by a black bear and dragged to the demon's palace.

The whole palace was covered in green light. The demon with a fierce look was sitting at a ten-meter-long dining table. He held a knife and a fork with a napkin on his neck. A drumstick with blood was on the plate in front of him.

Then other plates were opened one after another, on which there were bound deer and living goldfish.

The black bear tossed her onto the last plate.

The demon tasted all the previous food, and finally, it was her turn.

Seeing that his bloody mouth was approaching her, she was suddenly full of strength, hopped off the plate, and fell onto the ground.

Ouch--

Elaine rubbed her butt and stood up. She looked around, only to find that she wasn't in the demon's palace now.

She looked at the bed next to her, where she had fallen from earlier.

Then she lifted the window shade. The jet was flying steadily in the sky.

Everything that happened last night was like a dream. She hadn't come back to her senses yet and couldn't believe that she was going back to Riverside City... Although she was pretty homesick, she became unhappy and resistant as soon as she thought that she would lose her freedom after going back.

Besides, she hadn't bid Stella or Sherry farewell.

Elaine peered out of the window in sadness. Finally, she cheered herself up. Rubbing her starved belly, she pulled the door open and poked her head out. Outside the bedroom, Darnell was reading on the sofa.

Elaine wanted to ask him for help, so she called obediently, "Uncle Darnell..."

Darnell didn't answer.

He paused when turning the book page and raised his eyebrows slightly. Then he looked up at her slowly. "What's the matter?"

Elaine said in a low voice, "I'm hungry."

Darnell took a look at the door behind. "There's food in the dining room."

She hummed to answer and trotted over.

After getting full, Elaine stretched. When she wanted to go back to the bedroom for rest, she had to pass where Darnell was sitting.

She opened the door and tried her best not to attract his attention. Then she tiptoed and moved forward slowly.

On halfway, she suddenly recalled something. Then she turned around and walked to Darnell. "Why did we suddenly fly back to Riverside City? I...”

Before she finished her words, Darnell looked up.

Probably she still had the lingering fear of her nightmare. Elaine took a few steps back in fright. She put her hands in front of her in defense. "I... I... I do not doubt your decision. I'm just curious... It's kinda out of the blue..."

Darnell closed his book and said indifferently, "Your great-grandfather is seriously sick."

Elaine widened her eyes. "He's quite healthy. How come? How serious?"

If not serious, they wouldn't have called you back.

Upon hearing it, Elaine was startled. Tears welled up in her eyes. However, she tried her best to suppress them and hold them back.

After a while, Darnell continued, "Death is just as normal as birth. You are not a child any longer. You shouldn't need me to tell you all those reasons."¶¶¶¶¶¶¶☐☐☐☐