Ch. 741..750

Chapter 741: Everyone Has the Right But You

Clarence stared at him calmly, "Should I write you a review for your act?"

Caesar said, "Mr. Conrad, please don't forget that you are the reason Justin became how he is today."

This is between me and him, none of your business.

Stella interrupted, "Didn't you say lots of them are curious about how you come back from the dead? I'm curious too, do you mind sharing?"

The smile on Caesar's face faded slowly hearing that. He turned his gaze to the door.

Some journalists sneaked into the crowd and recorded every single word Caesar said just now.

They were trying to sneak out now.

Caesar turned over, "Ms. Radomil may ask if they dare let me tell the truth."

Before Stella could speak, Franklin said tiredly, "That's enough. It's Hilbert's funeral today. Let him walk his final journey in peace, can you?"

Elaine who stood by the side opened her mouth slightly but kept quiet in the end.

Franklin then told the members of the James, "What Caesar said just now is not the truth. I'll provide an explanation to you after the funeral. Please be respectful to the deceased, both Bancroft and Hilbert. And refrain yourself from asking further about this now, please wait until after the funeral."

Franklin had made his voice heard. Hence, despite having doubts and questions, the crowd remained quiet.

At this moment, one of the staff stormed towards Franklin, "Something is up, Mr. Franklin..."

What happened? Franklin asked, frowning.

The ancestral hall is on fire.

Franklin immediately turned to Caesar, "Did you do it?"

Caesar raised both of his hands in the air, "I'm here with you all the time. How could you blame it on me?" He said, smiling.

You are impossible...

Don't you realize that someone has been missing all this while?

With his reminder, the crowd found that Darnell was nowhere to be seen.

Caesar continued, "For my information, Darnell had always wanted to bring Dolores back here. He is even willing to go against the elders. But this is understandable, Bancroft committed a crime in City N, while Darnell can definitely kill a few elders and take the chance of Hilbert's death to burn down the ancestral hall and its old rules, so no one would be able to challenge his position as the Master of Riverside. These are things Darnell could easily do."

This time, instead of Franklin, Elaine shouted, "Nonsense!"

Caesar looked at her, "Elaine."

Elaine didn't know where her courage came from. She took one step forward, "The old rules should have been abolished long ago, but Darnell never intended to go against the elders. He is discussing with them, and he didn't kill anyone..."

If he hadn't brought that lady back, how could you say what you said in front of great-grandpa today? Elaine began sobbing again, "Caesar, stop doing all this. You are back now. Can't we live harmoniously

as..."

Caesar laughed out, "Elaine, I know you have a marriage arrangement with Darnell, but don't defend and trust him blindly. He can get rid of the elders now and his next target will be your dad. Do you think he is kind-hearted?"

Clarence began, "You have been distracting everyone since the beginning. First Bancroft then Hilbert and now Darnell, your goal is nothing but the Master of Riverside."

You must be joking. I don't have the habit of snatching from someone nor do I like stepping on others to get what doesn't belong to me.

That's because you can't do it even if you want to. Everyone has the right but you.

The smile on Caesar's face froze, his eyes darkened.

You have any more to say? Clarence asked.

Caesar pushed his glasses and said coldly, "You are good with speech. I'm no competition to you."

Meanwhile, they received news from the ancestral hall. The fire was under control. Only the outer part was damaged slightly; all the ancestral tablets were still in good condition. Hence, Hilbert's funeral started officially.

Unexpectedly, Caesar remained quiet throughout the process, looking calm, as if he was truly here for the funeral.

While Elaine went away with her dad.

Stella followed behind holding hands with Clarence, "Where is Darnell? What exactly is going on tonight. Caesar..." she asked softly.

What do you think he wants? Clarence asked.

Stella shook her head, "As you said, he criticized the late Bancroft, then Hilbert and then Darnell, and now... I can't tell."

Clarence smirked, "The conclusion is, he hates the entire James family."

Stella didn't understand, "The entire family?"

Why do you think he was cast out of Riverside secretly in the beginning? Clarence clarified.

Everyone became quieter approaching the yard.

The atmosphere turned solemn.

Caesar stood at a corner. He took off his glasses, wiping them slowly with a cloth.

Thereafter, Franklin came holding the urn while Elaine followed behind him.

Caesar put his glasses back on. He smiled faintly with one hand in his pocket like he was waiting for something to happen.

When Franklin arrived in front of the crowd ready for his speech, the urn made some ticking sound.

His expression changed and immediately shouted, "There is a bomb!" And he threw the urn aside, grabbed Elaine and ran in the other direction. The crowd didn't expect the sudden change of situation. They looked at each other, and began fleeing after they saw Franklin throw away the urn.

One two three...

Soon, everyone realized and started escaping in fear.

And a huge explosion blasted behind them while they were running and everyone started screaming.

Stella was pulled into an embrace, protected against the deafening blast.

Her arms wrapped around Clarence's waist tightly, trembling in fear.

Clarence whispered into her ears, "It's alright."

He looked up at the explosion coldly.

The graveyard was a mess after the blast. Many of them were injured.

Caesar on the opposite stood still at the same spot, looking in the direction of the blast with a widened smile on his face.

As if he was enjoying the result of his work.

Elaine crawled up from the ground, looked at the surrounding people, and shouted anxiously, "Dad...Dad are you alright?" "I'm fine," Franklin replied. He then stood up and looked towards the culprit.

Chapter 742: So That's How It Is

Caesar met his eyes and said playfully, "Brother is such a devoted son. How could you do such a sacrilegious thing? That was doyen's ashes in there. And you threw it away so casually?" Elaine held Franklin up and said with red eyes, "Uncle! Did you ... Did ... Did you plan all this?"

Franklin pulled her back and his face turned livid, "Did you intend to blow me up?"

I was just trying to see what your choice would be. You sure didn't disappoint me. Caesar added, "It was a worthy death for him to have ended up like that."

One of the elders was shaking with anger as he was being held up, "How could the James family have such an impious person like you!"

Caesar chuckled, "I have long since ceased to be a member of the James family. I have come here today to see doyen off for the last time."

He looked at the crowd and his eyes turned ferocious, "You will all be buried with him."

As Caesar finished speaking, a group of men with guns appeared from all corners of the graveyard and surrounded them.

The men of the James family had always been living high on the hogs and had never seen such a situation. They all turned pale and bloodless.

Only a few elders of the James family managed to keep their composure. They were probably used to big scenes, or perhaps they did not believe that Caesar would dare to do anything.

Caesar looked across the crowd at Clarence and smiled triumphantly, "Mr. Conrad, how nice would it be if you could just stay at City N! Unfortunately, you have to come and get involved in this mess." Clarence wrapped his arms around Stella and said indifferently, "So you're going to let me die here with them today."

Do you expect to walk out of here unhurt? Oh, you ... no, all of you! Are you expecting Darnell to come to your rescue? He's no better off than you all are right now. Of course, I know he's not easy to deal with, but thanks to a few of my friends. Even though he's not dead, there's no chance for him to come save you.

Clarence said, "So that's how it is."

Caesar said, "You figured it out?"

You arranged for the press to blend in, made a grand speech at doyen's grave, and put all the blame on Darnell. Now, if we die here, you can tell the public that he was the culprit. "You're clever."

Clarence said coldly, "But that's just your one-sided story, and it won't achieve the effect you want."

No sooner had Clarence finished speaking than Elaine's voice sounded from not far away. She was struggling, "Let go of me! Let go of me!"

Caesar shook his head and lamented, "I really can't hide anything from you. Of course, I won't kill everyone. Having Elaine in my hands will help me out a lot."

Elaine hit and bit the two men who came for her but could not break free.

Franklin tried to get her out, but was kicked right in the knee and fell to the ground.

Elaine's eyes widened and she shouted, "Daddy!"

Stella took a step forward but was pulled back by Clarence. He whispered in her ear, "It's okay."

Caesar looked over at her, "Elaine, if you want your dad to suffer less, you'd better cooperate."

Tears slid down her cheeks. She sobbed in a hoarse voice, "Uncle, how can you ... how can you ... ummm..." Before she could finish her sentence, her mouth was covered and she was dragged to Caesar's side.

Caesar said, "Well, it's time for this farce to end."

He raised his hand slightly and walked forward without looking back.

Someone shouted, "This is your family's feud. What has it got to do with us? We're innocent! You can't kill us!"

Caesar smiled at this and turned to look at the man who had spoken, "Innocent? Who is not innocent? If you think you're innocent, go down there and ask Hilbert why he did it to an innocent child as young as ten years old back then. Why did he disobey the James family's motto again and again? Why ..."

Caesar did not finish his sentence but continued, "The James family has sinned greatly. What's more, haven't you all been dissatisfied with the rules of the James family for a long time? Since you can't change anything in this life, I will send you on your way. But your deaths will be worthwhile. At least the James family will no longer be confined to Riverside City in the future."

As Caesar left, some of the James family cried out in despair, some helplessly begged for mercy, and some closed their eyes and waited for death, knowing it was hopeless to struggle. The moment the gun went off, Stella's ears were covered.

Yet a few shots later, all of the James family were safe and sound. They looked at each other incredulously, with a mixture of bewilderment and elation on their faces.

Caesar also seemed to have sensed something wrong, and when he looked back, he found that his men had fallen to the ground.

Caesar's face changed slightly. Before he could react, Darnell appeared in his line of sight.

For a moment, everyone in the James family heaved a sigh of relief and looked excited.

At the sight of him, Elaine's teary eyes lit up with excitement. She couldn't help but start to struggle, "Let go of me ..."

Caesar glanced at her and warned, "Elaine!"

Elaine shouted, "Uncle, stop it! It's not too late to stop. He won't hurt you. ..."

Elaine had never seen him looking so terrifying. She was so shocked that the rest of her words caught in her throat and she couldn't make another sound.

Caesar looked back at Darnell and pushed his glasses up, "It seems I underestimated you."

The fire at the shrine was just a trigger to lure Darnell there and intercept him on the way.

What he hadn't expected was that he would be back in such a short time.

Darnell said, "By now, you won't be denying that you killed those elders, will you?"

Caesar laughed, "Yes, so what if I killed them? You and they have always been at odds. Wouldn't it be better if I removed those obstacles for you? How would you hold the position as the head of the James family with them around?"

Caesar turned to look at some of the James family members, "And these people. You should know better than I do that some of them, on the surface, worship you as the head of the family, but behind your back, many of them think that you are too young to take on this great responsibility and are trying to pull you down from this position."

Now if you kill these people, there will be no one to oppose you anymore and the whole James family will be yours. Shouldn't you be grateful to me?

At Caesar's words, those of the James family, who had seen hope, had their faces turned pale again. Those who had defied Darnell and played a lot of tricks in secret, their faces turned as white as sheet. If Caesar allied with Darnell, they would have no choice but to die today."]

Chapter 743: You Have No Other Choice

At the graveyard, the sky, which was originally clear, was slowly covered by a few dark clouds, and it darkened instantly. There was a great sense of oppression as a storm was coming.

Everyone held their breath as they waited for Darnell's answer. It was as if their lives were in his hands.

As they waited with bated breath, Darnell laughed softly, "So I should thank you?"

Caesar pursed his lips, and his eyes, hidden behind the glasses, had a baleful glint.

The battle was on the verge of breaking out.

Caesar had quite a few men with him, but they had just been dealt with by Darnell's men, and most of them were dead or wounded.

In a situation like this, he had no upper hand at all.

The only reason he was still standing here to negotiate with Darnell was that he still had Elaine in his hands.

Darnell took a step forward, and said in a nonchalant tone, "Your greatest triumph today is no more than ruining Grandpa's ashes. But have you checked that it's really his ashes?"

Caesar's face changed, "You tampered with the ashes?"

You're wrong. There are no ashes at all.

At that moment, Hilbert was helped out from the side by Darnell's mother. Although he was hobbling with a cane, he still looked in good spirits and would have no problem living for a few more years. Elaine was exhilarated, "Great-grandpa ..."

Caesar burst into a hysteric laughter, "You put on a good show. Well, well, well, turns out I'm the one who won't leave here today."

He then looked at Franklin and sneered, "Brother ... I didn't expect that you had set up this trap with them, and went so far as to use your own daughter as bait..."

Hilbert sighed, "Caesar, after all this, you still won't turn back?"

Turn back? Why would I turn back? In all the years I've been banished from the James family, you've never given me a chance to turn back! Caesar pulled Elaine over and put the gun to her head, "Fine, since you've all made it this far, I'll finish this last show with you. Even if I die here today, I have Elaine to bury with me."

Elaine whimpered in a broken voice, "Uncle ..."

Franklin yelled, "Caesar! You've watched Elaine grow up. You're really gonna kill her?"

Caesar laughed indifferently, "Why should I care about that now that I'm going to die?"

Darnell said, "Let her go and you can leave Riverside City."

Caesar probably didn't expect him to make such an offer straight away, and his eyes narrowed slightly as if he was evaluating the truth of his words.

Darnell continued, "You don't have any other choice."

A moment later, Caesar said, "Okay."

As Caesar took Elaine away, Caesar's men were all cleared out. All of the James family were completely relieved.

Hilbert said, "I've given you all a fright today, but I'm glad to see that there was no danger. The James family will not spare this bastard and will definitely give you an explanation. It is getting late, so go home and get some rest."

Hilbert 's words sound thoughtful but at the same time unquestionable, so even some of the James family members who had objections stopped talking and left.

Today had been such a fright for anyone that they didn't bother to dwell on the details or the reasons for it. As for what to do with Caesar, since Hilbert had already said so, they would have to wait and see. Stella looked at Clarence with confusion and disbelief in her eyes.

Clarence stroke her hair and said softly, "It's over."

Stella asked in a whisper, "Did you know what they were planning in advance?"

Clarence said, "I didn't know until after I got to Riverside City. But no one knew exactly what Caesar was trying to do."

If he had known that Caesar had prepared the bomb, he would never have brought Stella here.

Stella still didn't quite understand, "But if they just wanted to deal with Caesar, then by using the excuse of Hilbert's death, they could have lured him back to Riverside City and then had him under control as soon as he arrived. The situation today where a number of people were injured and Elaine was held hostage by him could've been avoided. Why ...?"

Clarence looked over, "We'll have to ask them about that."

At that moment, Hilbert came up next to them, "You guys come with me."

In just a moment, all of the James family had left, leaving only Franklin to deal with the aftermath.

Back at the James family, Hilbert said, "I'm sure you all have a lot of questions about what happened today."

Stella frowned, "Elaine ..."

Don't worry. With Darnell following, she'll be brought back safely.

Clarence said, "I suppose it was expected that Elaine would be hijacked by Caesar."

Hilbert sat in his chair with his cane in both hands and spoke slowly, "Caesar is not really bad by nature. He loves Elaine no less than any of us."

Stella actually agreed with his words. If Caesar really wanted to do something to Elaine, with all the opportunities at City N, he would have done it already.

She said, "So... Caesar would spare Elaine when he was planning to kill everyone in the James family, partly because he had a hostage to negotiate with, as he said, and partly because he wanted to keep Elaine alive. "

Hilbert nodded slowly, "He was not going to hurt Elaine. All he wanted was revenge on the James family."

Why exactly?

Darnell's mother said, "You should have heard that Caesar once had a girlfriend who he had been in love with for years, but was never accepted by the James family."

Stella said, "I heard a bit about that. As I recall, they finally got the permission from Caesar's father, but for unknown reasons, Caesar broke up with the woman later. It wasn't long before she was killed in a car accident."

Clarence said, "There were also rumors that Caesar died in the accident with her."

Hilbert sighed, "It was just an excuse for the James family to keep the family secret. Since then, Caesar has been banished from the family."

Darnell's mother said, "But in reality, this woman wasn't even Caesar's girlfriend, but his father's lover."

Stella couldn't help but gaped at her, "What?!"

Hilbert said, "Franklin and Caesar's mother died young and their father was so busy at work that both children were taken care of by me for the most time. Caesar, in particular, was not on good terms with his father and didn't usually get in touch with him. They only saw each other a few times at family gatherings, or during the New Year holidays."

"Both children were aware of the presence of other women around their father, but because their mother was dead, they did not bother about it. It was precisely for this reason that caused the tragedy later

0000"

Chapter 744: Are You Still Hung Up On This

Caesar's father had many women outside, but they took what they needed from each other, that was all.

Some were for money, some for fame and fortune.

But that woman, Julienne Yona, wanted more.

She wanted to be a part of the James family and to sit in the position of the hostess that had been vacant for over ten years.

Julienne Yona was beautiful, scheming, and resourceful.

She was only in her twenties when she was with Caesar's father, who was in his early fifties at the time.

After mentioning to him several times, both explicitly and implicitly, that she wanted to get married, but being refused, she decided to change her target.

By that time, Franklin was married and had his little girl Elaine.

Caesar, who was single, naturally became her target.

At first, she approached Caesar with a purpose, but perhaps because she had previously been dealing with older men in their fifties, and now that she was with a man of her age, ambiguous affection was gradually growing in her heart.

She had been with Caesar for a long time and for a while she even believed that they were really boyfriend and girlfriend. Caesar treated her well, and obviously he liked her a lot.

So she broke off contact with Caesar's father.

But it didn't last long when her creditors came to her door and Julienne needed a large sum of money.

At that time, Caesar had just taken over a lot of company business and was very busy, leaving early and returning late every day.

Julienne looked at him and just couldn't tell him the truth.

She didn't want the person she liked to know that she had such a bad history.

So she went to Caesar's father and got a sum of money from him.

But as fate would have it, soon afterward, Julienne became pregnant.

Caesar was happy when he learned the news. He was very fond of children. Although he had Elaine around him all the time, he wanted to have a child of his own more than anything else.

But Julienne's face turned pale. No one knew better than her that who the real father was.

Since she was pregnant, Caesar had put their marriage on the agenda and even took Julienne back home with him.

That scene was enough of a shock.

Caesar's father didn't make it clear, but he demanded them to break up on the spot. Caesar, naturally, did not agree and resisted as hard as he could.

That was why it was rumored that the James family didn't like the woman and wouldn't accept her.

Franklin also thought Julienne looked familiar, and it was only after he looked into it secretly that he found out the truth.

He went to see Julienne and told her to abort the baby and leave Caesar.

But Julienne refused to give up the opportunity that was within her reach. She turned to Caesar's father and threatened to make it public that she was carrying his child if he did not let her marry into the James family.

By this time, Caesar was fighting against the James family to be with her, and many people knew that she was Caesar's girlfriend.

If she exposed the truth, it would be a huge scandal.

Caesar's father agreed to this in order to appease her.

However, there really was no such thing as a secret. Caesar found out about her pregnancy test and discovered that there was a problem with the date of her pregnancy.

Instead of asking Julienne directly, he went behind her back to check it out.

The results he got made him sick and shudder.

Julienne, who thought everything was all right, hugged him and said sweetly, "Honey, do you think our baby will look like you or like me?"

Caesar asked her numbly, "What do you think?"

I think she must look like you. Everyone else says that the daughter would look like her father. I just have a hunch that I'm gonna have a baby girl. You like Elaine a lot, right? Later, when we have a daughter o our own, you can...

Caesar pushed her away and left without looking back, going downstairs to puke for a long time.

Then later, on Julienne's way to the hospital, the car broke down.

The car was wrecked and Julienne was killed.

It was Caesar who did it.

And Caesar didn't stop there. The next person he planned to kill was his father.

But his attempt was discovered by Franklin and Hilbert in time to stop him.

And to prevent the thing from escalating, Hilbert and Bancroft, after consulting with each other, expelled him from the James family in order to save him.

As the story came to the end, Hilbert heaved a long sigh, "He probably feels that in this case, it was his father who did the wrong thing and we took his father's side, so he holds a grudge against even us. He changed into a different person by then, and staying in Riverside City wasn't going to help him, and it was foreseeable that he would do something appalling again."

Stella froze as she listened and it took her a long time to react. She opened her mouth but didn't know what to say.

Darnell's mother said, "As you know, the James family has many branches and the forces are already complex. If they found out that he killed Julienne and that he was involved in so many things... they were going to make a big deal out of it. They wouldn't dare do anything to his father, so they could only get on him."

Hilbert continued, "His father was so devastated by the incident that he was bedridden after Caesar left Riverside City and died within six months. Later, the story was forgotten." Clarence spoke coldly, "I didn't expect that the James family had such a spectacular past."

Hilbert coughed, "Caesar was at fault, but the James family's connection to City N didn't start with him. To be frank, it was also down to me and your grandfather. We only wanted to teach the Conrad family a lesson back then, but we didn't expect ... to let someone with ulterior motives take advantage of the situation. One of your grandfather's greatest regrets in his life was that child of the Conrad family ..." "Was it not his biggest regret that he didn't get to apologize in person?"

Hilbert coughed again, "Your grandfather was the head of the James family and there were many things he couldn't help himself with. He was thinking of you and your mother even as he was dying. Others can blame him and hate him, but you cannot..."

Clarence got up, "What am I blaming him for? It's been so long ago, and blaming anyone won't change the ending."

Hilbert looked at him. He was at a loss for words and could only sigh.

It was the sins sown by the previous generation that had brought about the present retribution.

Stella rose with him, bent in greeting to Hilbert and Darnell's mother, and followed Clarence out.

Outside, it was already dark.

It seemed very late now.

Dark clouds were gathering in the distance and it was about to rain.

Stella walked up to Clarence and whispered, "Are you still upset about this?"

What? Clarence looked at her and spoke gently, "No. It's over."

Stella stopped and poked Clarence in the chest and said slowly, "You always say it's over, but you can't convince yourself of that here, can you?"☐☐☐☐

Chapter 745: Finding His Body

By the river, the night breeze was a little cool and the waves were getting higher.

Elaine stood on the harbor, hijacked by Caesar.

Her eyes were red and her voice was hoarse from crying, "Uncle ..."

Caesar lowered his voice and said, "Elaine, I won't hurt you. If they let me go, you can go back safely."

Elaine choked, "But you weren't like this before... Will you come back? Grandpa and Dad won't blame you. You have to stop being so obsessed."

Caesar was a bit of a wreck, but the smile on his face was relaxed, "Elaine, you're still young. When you get older, you'll know that no one in the James family can stand me, including you. Have you ever hated me?"

Elaine said, "That's because you caused Sherry to lose her baby and I ..."

Right? What's happened has happened, and it can never be changed. I'm not obsessed. They're the ones who have pushed me step by step to where I am now. Don't I want to get on with my life? But who has given me a chance? Did your grandfather give me one? Or did your father give me one? And Sherry, will she ever forgive me?

Elaine opened her mouth but didn't know what to say.

As darkness fell, the lights along the harbor were lit up one by one and illuminated the whole river.

Darnell stood a short distance away with one hand in his trouser pocket and looked indifferent. Caesar shouted at him, "I don't have time to waste with you here. How long before the boat arrives?" Darnell glanced at his watch, "Two minutes."

Caesar laughed, "I'm surprised you're teaming up with them. Seems like I've made quite a scene."

Darnell looked at him and said in an unemotional tone, "Don't flatter yourself. You and I both know who's behind you now that you've come back to Riverside City to stir up troubles."

But so what if you know? In fact, I'm quite curious as to why you've managed to keep your composure when Clarence doesn't deal with him. You think you can atone for Bancroft's wrongdoings by this? "It's none of your business."

Caesar laughed loudly, "I'm afraid you can't spare the energy right now. Since the death of Bancroft, the James family has been in chaos. Those who opposed you died, but the forces behind them are still there. You can't uproot them overnight. And you dare not push them too hard because you're afraid they'll work with City N, and then the James family will be completely out of your control." Darnell was silent, and after a long time, his lips curled up, as if in silent mockery.

The smile on Caesar's face slowly froze as he finally understood what was going on, "You have foreseen the death of those elders a long time ago, right?"

Just as he finished, Caesar suddenly realized why his men could have killed those elders so easily.

How did Darnell eradicate those men in just two days after he returned to Riverside City so quietly?

So that was how it was...

He thought he could pin the blame on Darnell, but he didn't expect that he was the one being used. To murder those people with a borrowed knife; he turned out to be the knife. At that moment, the boat Caesar wanted pulled up behind him.

The man on the boat came down and walked straight up to Darnell.

Darnell looked at Caesar and his voice was cold, "Let her go."

Caesar withdrew his gaze and spoke in a voice that only he and Elaine could hear before pushing her forward. Then he quickly jumped into the boat and left.

Elaine lunged forward a few steps before being caught.

But before she had time to stand firm, there was a sudden bang in the distance.

The next second, the ship was going up in flames!

Elaine was startled by the blast and involuntarily clutched the man's shirt.

Darnell placed his hand on her back and patted her gently. He looked up at the river still burning in the distance and frowned.

Soon, one of the men came over and said, "Master, it's..."

Darnell gave him a look, then he immediately understood and didn't say a word.

It was a long time before Elaine emerged from his arms and stared blankly into the distance, "Is that the boat Uncle Caesar was on?" Darnell nodded indifferently.

Elaine stiffened and turned to look at him. Her moist eyes filled with shock and fear as she spoke incredulously, "You killed him?" Darnell turned, "If you think so, then yes."

Elaine tried to say something else but found her vision blurring. Eventually, she passed out from exhaustion.

Darnell took two steps and stopped again after hearing the noise behind him.

His men said, "Master, Lady Elaine just fainted from the shock. Don't worry...'

Darnell said, "Where did this boat set sail from?"

From the James family's cargo port. I checked and the boat is fine.

Darnell looked at the river, and his thin lips parted slightly, " for him. Whether he's dead or alive, I want to see his body."

Darnell walked over to Elaine and picked her up.

When Stella and Clarence returned, Noah had just finished his bath and was crawling around the house as if he had an endless supply of energy.

Dolores said, "Why are you guys back so late? Was there something wrong at the funeral?"

Clarence said, "It's a long story."

Dolores spoke immediately, "Then don't say anything. I'm glad you're safe."

Stella went to pick up Noah, "Ms. Anderson, we'll go to our room then."

Dolores nodded, "Go on, get an early night. it's almost time for Noah to go to bed too."

Ms. Anderson, good night.

Back in the room, Stella put Noah to sleep while she said to Clarence, "You go ahead and take a bath. I'll go when he's asleep."

Clarence came over and wrapped his arms around her from behind, then rested his chin in the crook of her neck, "When he's asleep, we'll go to the bath together." Stella was speechless. Fine.

But they didn't know if Noah was having a good time or what, he kept his big round eyes open and looked here and there, not wanting to go to sleep at all.

Stella yawned a few times, but he still waved his little hand and giggled.

Clarence reached out and pinched his cheeks, "You just like to go against me, don't you?"

Noah swatted his hand away and crawled into Stella's arms, "Mummy, hug."

Stella picked him up and said to Clarence, "Come on, don't tease him. He can't sleep when you're here."

Is it because of me?

How come it's not? You two are staring at each other. You go away, and he will sleep after playing on his own for a while.

Chapter 746: Isn't It Time To Change The Way You Address Her?

After Stella had shooed Clarence away, she held Noah in her arms, and as she had coaxed him for a while, Noah became sleepy. He barely opened his eyes a few times before falling asleep in Stella's arms. Stella gently put him to bed and tucked him in.

She opened the bedroom door and looked in, not finding Clarence.

Another wave of sleepiness hit her.

Stella yawned and took her clothes into the bathroom, with the door ajar.

She was just halfway through when the bathroom door was pushed open.

Clarence's voice came, "Is he asleep?"

Stella nodded, "You believe me now."

Clarence smiled and pushed open the glass door to the shower.

She quickly pushed the door back again, "You lecher!"

Clarence stood outside and looked at the figure behind the blurred glass as he leaned against the wall. He folded his arms around his chest and said calmly, "How am I a lecher for looking at my wife?" Stella didn't bother with him. She just wanted to wash the bubbles off her head and get out.

Clarence added, "We've been here two days. Are you getting used to it?"

With water flowing, Stella slurred, "There's nothing to 'get used to'. It's not like I've never been here before ..."

Clarence spoke slowly, "Now that you're used to it, isn't it time you changed the way of addressing people?"

Stella turned off the water, grabbed a towel and wrapped it around her body, then pulled open the door to the bathroom, "Change what?"

Clarence reached out, pulled her into his arms, and lowered his voice, "What do you think?"

Wh-what?

Stella put her hands against his chest and kept her distance from him, "I just took a shower. Don't you ..."

Then take another shower with me.

With that, Stella was pulled into the bathroom by him again.

She gently pounded on his chest and whispered, "Stop it. Ms. Anderson is right next door."

Clarence nibbled on her ear, and his voice was hoarse, "You still call her Ms. Anderson?"

Stella felt her ears tingling, which were reddened already.

She knew what Clarence had just meant by that.

Stella stammered but could find no other excuse.

It was a long time before she blushed and said, "I've gotten used to calling her Ms. Anderson. I... have to take a little time to change. There's no rush!"

With those words, Stella tried to run out of the bathroom and was yanked back by Clarence.

He said slowly, "You should know that her last name wasn't originally Anderson either, so anyways you would have to call her in another way. Better start doing it now."

She had forgotten about that.

Clarence added, "I can get her to pay you for changing the way you address her, if you feel too embarrassed to do it."

...Don't you dare!

Clarence leaned closer to her and raised an eyebrow slightly, "So you agreed?"

His gaze was too intense, and after two seconds of silence, Stella lifted her hand and pushed his face aside, "Wait for me... to get used to it."

Clarence took her hand, and said with a smile, "Okay."

Stella said, "Okay, you take a shower. I'm going out in case Noah wakes up."

With that, she grabbed the pajamas next to her and took the opportunity to run out of the bathroom.

In the bedroom, Noah was lying on the bed and sleeping soundly.

Stella gently rolled him over and re-covered him with the quilt.

At that moment, the sound of a mobile phone vibrating came from the sofa.

Stella went over and picked it up and looked at it. It was Clarence's phone. She walked over to the bathroom and said in a hushed voice, "Someone's calling you." Clarence said, "You answer it."

To avoid disturbing Noah, Stella walked out onto the balcony.

After a few minutes, Clarence came out of the bathroom and walked behind her. He propped his hands on the railing, "Who's calling?"

Stella turned back, "It was the James family, saying that Elaine had returned safely. And..."

And what else?

The boat Caesar was on exploded when he left. By the extent of the damage to the ship, Caesar could not have survived if he was on board at that time, but they did not find his body. It's possible that he jumped overboard before the explosion occurred, or that his body was washed away ...

Hearing these words, Clarence looked nonchalant and did not speak.

Stella said, "Did Darnell plan this explosion?"

No. Clarence looked to the river in the distance, "Darnell would have killed him at the cemetery if he wanted to."

But didn't he hold Elaine hostage at that time?

Clarence said, "Hijacking is one thing, and Darnell keeping him alive is another."

Stella was silent before saying again, "So who could have done this?"

Probably someone who didn't want him to get out of Riverside City alive.

'Yeah, like I can't figure this out.' Stella let out a silent sigh.

After a moment, she suddenly said, "By the way, during the night at the James family, Hilbert only talked about Caesar's past, not why they set this up."

Clarence said, "The reason is simple. I can tell you."

Clarence looked at her and raised an eyebrow, "Beg me."

She hesitated for a moment before standing on her tiptoes and kissing him gently on his thin lips.

Clarence was just about to say something when Stella lowered her voice, "Don't go too far, or you'll be sleeping out tonight."

Clarence smiled and took her into his arms, "Caesar said today that there are many people who feel that Darnell is too young to take on the responsibility and are not happy with him being the current head of the James family."

Stella nodded, "I remember that."

Clarence continued, "The James family has been rooted in Riverside City for hundreds of years and has prospered ever since, with many branches, each with their own schemes and purposes. The position of head of the James family has never been a secure one."

Darnell's character and methods were very different from those of his predecessors. As soon as he came to power, he made those who feared and scorned him feel a crisis at the same time. He wants to change the rules of the James family, and that means pulling a large number of people out of their comfort zone.

Stella said, "So Darnell compromised their interests?"

The only thing in this world that could turn families into enemies was interest.

Clarence said, "Yes, a large part of the people present at the funeral today, although not like those who work with Caesar, have been complaining and making a lot of moves in private. There's only one way to get them to be completely quiet."

Stella's eyes widened and she looked up at Clarence, "Is this actually a setup against everyone in the James family? Is Caesar just the beginning? Or maybe he was just the trigger?"

Stella finally understood why Hilbert had faked his death! So they were trying to lure Caesar back to finish the trick!000000☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 747: Why Are You in Such a Rush?

Stella thought for a moment before saying, "But those people are not stupid. They should have been able to see that this was a trap from the moment doyen appeared." Clarence flicked her forehead with his finger and said, "Are you still dwelling on this matter?"

No. I just think that it is a little risky. Besides this, Elaine... What if the situation loses control and something happens to her? she said.

It is risky. But being the head of the James family, he had to take risks.

She moved her lips but did not know what to say.

He had a point. Even Elaine's great-grandfather and her father worked together to set up this trap, so it meant that they were sure of her safety.

After a while, he let go of her, leaned on the railing behind him and said lightly, "Whether it was because Darnell saved their lives at a critical moment and made them feel thankful, or because they saw with their own eyes how Darnell forced Caesar step by step to the point where there was no way back, they would not act rashly anymore in the future. At least, no one in the James family would have any more objections towards Darnell in a short time."

She leaned next to him, gently pursing her lips.

Darnell's move was truly brilliant. At first, he made those people in the James family think he saved their lives. And when they realized that something was wrong, they saw how he dealt with Caesar so that even if they had complaints, they could only stay silent.

After a while, she smiled, "Now I know how those rumors about Darnell came."

Darnell could be really ruthless and calculating, so it was normal for the others to fear him.

She looked at him with a worried look. "Well, since the things here in Riverside City were settled for now, can we still get our child back to City N?"

Previously, they thought that the situation was complicated and Riverside City was not safe to stay after doyen's death, so Clarence decided to get the medical team to City N.

But now...

Darnell probably would not agree that they took his medical team away.

He stroked her head and said, "Yes."

Her eyes lit up. "Really?"

Why would I lie to you? He slowly added, "Didn't I tell you that it is a wedding gift?"

Thank you!

He lowered his head to approach closer to her. "You know what..."

She wrapped her arms around his neck and tilted her head to kiss him.

This time, she did not back off after a soft kiss but closed her eyes and slowly explored him with the tip of her tongue like he usually did.

His gaze was getting intense. He reaching out to grab her waist. In the blink of an eye, he deepened the kiss.

Wind was blowing in the chilly night.

He carried her back to the bedroom, put her on the sofa and kissed her lips again.

After enjoying the kiss for a while in the sofa, she suddenly said, "Clarence."

He replied in a husky voice, "Mm?"

She tightened her grip on his waist and said in a soft voice, "Let's have another child."

He paused for a second and looked up at her. "Why? Because of what Archer said yesterday morning? You can just ignore him."

She shook her head and looked at the bed not far away. "I believe if there is a younger one in the house, our little one will not be too lonely. Besides this, if we have two children, our home will be lively. Don't you think it's good? That's how I imagine our family life would be."

He was silent for a few seconds before saying, "Our home is already lively with our little one."

After a few seconds, she said, "If you don't want to have another one, then forget about it."

He said, "Do you think I am unwilling? I just don't want you to be... so tired."

She knew what he meant. The doctor once told her that her chances of getting pregnant were quite small. So he probably did not want her to have full hopes and then end up in vain. This kind of feeling was not good.

She said in a quiet voice, "Didn't you say that small chances did not mean zero chance at all? As long as I listen to the doctor and take good care of myself, there is still a good chance." He did not speak with his thin lips pursed.

Seeing him like this, she tried to stimulate him more. "When I was pregnant with the little one, I was always nervous and you took advantage of me. I never had a peaceful moment to raise the baby properly. After giving birth to him, I did not even have a good chance to watch him grow up, so I do want to have another child to make up all those things that I ignored and missed..."

He stared at her with unfathomable gazes and asked in a low voice, "How did I take advantage of you?"

That's not the point here.

He said, "I know what you mean. Did the doctor say what you should do?"

His hot gaze made her a bit weak and she instantly looked away. "Just eat well, drink well and rest well."

So simple?

Yes. This kind of thing needs time. When my condition gets well, I will naturally...

He interrupted her, "Stella, do you take me for a fool? If this is all it takes to increase the possibilities of conception, why should we need a doctor?"

She could not help but frown, retorting him under her breath, "I may have to take some medicine. But it's no big deal."

If you want another child, I agree. But only if you don't harm your own body.

I told you I will slowly improve my physical condition. So it is good for my health. How can it hurt my body?

I will talk with your doctor first. After I know the specific methods and details, we will talk about it later.

My doctor is in City N...

Then let's wait until we get back to City N.

She was about to say something else, but he said in a calm and restrained manner, "As you told me, it takes time. So why are you in such a rush?"

She got speechless. Who's in a rush?

She simply wanted to discuss this matter with him first.

But it seemed like she was in a hurry... to do something with him.

She broke away from his embrace, sat up and said seriously, "You have a point. So you should continue to sleep on the couch tonight."

He was stunned for a moment.

Before he could say anything, she added, "You are not allowed to sneak back to the bed. Anyway, we will be back in City N in a few days, so why are you in such a rush?"

She used what he had said to her to retort him.

After saying that, she ruffled her hair and walked towards the bed.

He looked at her back and couldn't help smiling.

What a feisty little kitten.

The more he looked at her, the more he adored her.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 748: He Won’t Agree

The next morning, when Stella woke up, the little one was already sitting on the bed playing with his toys.

She got up and looked around. Clarence was truly sleeping in the sofa to calm himself down.

She carried the child downstairs on tiptoes without waking Clarence up.

In the kitchen, Dolores was already cooking breakfast.

In the dining hall, Archer also sat down on time to doze off.

She put the child on his dining chair and asked Archer to keep an eye on him. Then she went into the kitchen to help.

Dolores asked, "You were not scared yesterday, were you?"

Stella shook her head gently. "It was a bit dangerous. But fortunately, they were not seriously injured."

Dolores sighed silently. "Whether it is in City N or Riverside City, accidents happened all the time. It must be hard for you."

I am fine with it. While speaking, Stella took the egg custard in Dolores' hand and paused for a second before saying softly, "Let me help you... Mom."

Dolores said quickly, "It's a little hot, so you should be careful."

Dolores turned around and went to get a spoon, and only then did she realize what she just heard. She looked back at Stella and asked with disbelief, "What did you just call me?" Stella smiled and said again, "Mom."

Pausing for a few seconds, Dolores' lips curled up. "When did you get the certificate?"

Just two days before coming to Riverside City.

When is the wedding?

Stella replied, "I don't know. We still need some time. If possible, probably the end of the year."

Dolores smiled. "Good. It's also what I have always been wishing for. If Clarence dares be bad to you, just tell me."

Thank you, Ms.... Well, Mom, Stella replied.

Dolores patted her shoulder. "Don't worry. You will get used to it."

After the breakfast, when Archer was about to go upstairs, Stella followed.

He asked, "What is wrong?"

She looked back. Not far away, Clarence was playing with the child.

She lowered her voice and said, "If Clarence asks you about my condition, don't tell him the truth. And don't tell him about the cord blood either."

He was confused. "Why?"

If he knows, he won't agree.

He leaned on the rail and pondered for a while before speaking, "I got it. I won't say anything."

Although it sounded easy, in fact, improving her physical condition to have another child was difficult.

During the whole process, Stella would suffer a lot. Even if she was lucky enough to get pregnant, she might have some adverse reactions due to her medication and injections. So it would definitely be much harder for her than when she gave birth to the first child.

She said, "We'll talk again after you have dispensed the medicine."

Okay, he replied.

She turned around and was about to leave when he called out to her.

Is there anything else?

He said, "Although I did not tell you the details, you should have felt that things won't be so easy. So I want to remind you again that you'd better think carefully about it..."

She smiled, "There is nothing to think about. I've made up my mind."

Though the process might be hard, it would not be as painful as the time when she thought her child was gone.

Okay, I got it. Wait for me.

Thank you, she said.

A week later, Winnie's show was officially broadcast.

Although many people belittled the show, it still became a frequenter in the "What's Trending" list via different tags.

One of the tags was anticipated, #FloraAlvin&Winnie Truman.

Under this trend, Flora's team spent a lot of money on marketing. Most of the comments were saying that Flora looked more beautiful than Winnie and there were many comparisons between the two.

As for Winnie's side, although she did not have a team now, she had high popularity among people. And her fans were loyal to her. Though Flora spent money on marketing, most of the people thought Winnie obviously looked better than her when they stood together.

In addition to this trend, several tags of other stars in the show also appear on the trending list.

However, at this time, a trend suddenly rose up to number one.

It was #WinnieChanning.

Posted under this tag was a video clip with the most views, in which Winnie and Channing were working together to find clues in a room.

The lighting and backdrop were just right. People who watched this felt it looked more like an romantic drama than a variety show.

Many fans and netizens clicked into this trend because of Winnie, but most of the comments were about Channing.

Help! Who is this boy? Is he a new star? He is so handsome!

Why do I feel that he looks familiar? Did he participate in some shows before?

I also find him familiar. I don't think he's ever appeared in any show. If so, he must've been on the trends already.

No more guesses guys! I'll tell y'all the truth. Hes my husband, so y'all can leave now.

lollll wait. i remembered. is he Ms. Radomil's younger brother? when Ms. Radomil was wrongly accused by Phoebe Steward, i saw him. but there were so few of his photos so I was not so sure "Sisters, it's him! Channing Radomil! There was news that he'd signed with JH Film Company. I didn't expect he would really appear on screen!"

I remember he was a top student in school. Straight-A student in the entertainment industry? That's rare

Don't roast me fangirls. Winnie and he look like a perfect match. She is a beautiful actress and he is a handsome young man with high IQ. I'm a Channie shipper now...

Yes, I feel the same way. Channing is good-looking and truly smart. And he is a real gentleman, much better than that scum Chassell. If Winnie can be with him, I'll wake up in the middle of the night laughing out loud.

The trend #WinnieChanning stayed on top of the trending list for a long time.

Gradually, nobody discussed about Flora and Winnie.

The show's ratings were also rising and it reviews were getting better.

Those people who were badmouthing the show disappeared quickly as if they had never appeared.

As for Channing's side, the account that his company registered for him got more and more followers. From several thousands to more than a million followers, it took less than a night.

His agent called him and asked him to post something on his Twitter to interact with his fans, or post a selfie.

He flipped through his phone album and could not find a proper photo.

When he was about to give up, he saw a photo suddenly.

It was the first day when he recorded the show. Stella and Sherry went to visit him. Sherry secretly took a picture and sent it to him.

In the photo, two vague figures stood in the noisy recording studio with their backs facing the camera.

He couldn't even remember what he was talking to Winnie at that time.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 749: Do You Often Eat Like This?

Half an hour later, Channing posted his first tweet.

It was the photo that Sherry sent him. He simply tagged the name of the variety show in the post and didn't write anything else.

After that, he put down his phone.

Not long after, he received a call from Maxwell, who told him that valid evidence was found to prove Chassell's crime and the police had started to investigate the case, and that Chassell disappeared after he left the company this afternoon.

Maxwell then added, "But don't worry. I have sent people over to protect Winnie. As long as Chassell appeared, he would be caught."

Channing held the phone and kept silent for a few seconds before saying, "I got it."

Before hanging up the phone, Maxwell said, "Before Mr. Conrad went to Riverside City, he specially instructed me that you should stop bothering with Chassell's matter since it is all clear. Ms. Radomil also doesn't want anything bad happen to you."

Channing nodded. "Okay."

Putting down his phone, he got up and went straight into the bathroom to take a shower.

After finishing his shower, he wiped his hair while picking up his phone.

The tweet he posted not so long ago already got some likes and comments.

He did not click on those comments. Instead, he clicked on the photo and zoomed in to look more closely, pondering.

Two minutes later, he casually threw the towel on the sofa, put the phone in his pants pocket, and walked towards the door.

There was not so much work these days and nobody urged Winnie to lose weight, so she indulged herself in a lot of take-out on the coffee table. While watching the new variety show, she lay on the sofa, clicked on Twitter and started to browse casually.

Soon she saw a real-time trend.

She paused for a second and then clicked into it. After zooming in the photo quite a few times, she finally confirmed that one of the figures in the photo was herself.

The photo that Channing posted was in the recording studio. It was quite artistic with two people in a noisy environment.

Under his tweet, most of the comments were focused on the recording of the variety show itself.

There were also a few people discussing the two figures in the photo. Some recognized that they were Winnie and Channing. But soon some fans of Channing rushed to the comment section and asked them to focus on Channing instead of creating rumors based on a single photo of a show.

Reading this, Winnie smiled slightly. Although this was Channing's first variety show after entering the entertainment industry, and his team was still not so experienced, he had behaved well and attracted lots of fans.

Before she quit Twitter, she somehow clicked on the photo again and then saved it.

Immediately afterwards, she threw her phone on the sofa and began to pick out some food on the table, started to eat happily.

Soon the doorbell rang.

She thought it was the bubble tea she ordered had arrived. While holding a skewer in one hand, she clip-clopped hurriedly in her slippers to the door. "On my way!"

She pulled open the door and was about to say thank you when she saw Channing standing outside.

She subconsciously hid the skewer behind her back and asked with wide eyes, "Why... Why are you here?"

He pursed his lips before saying, "They said that Chassell ran away and I fear he might come to you."

She moved her lips a few times before she finally mumbled, "Oh wow..."

Hmm.

They stood facing each other in the doorway for half a minute. She suddenly returned to her senses and took a step aside. "Well, come in." "Okay."

While he was changing his shoes at the doorway, she turned around and ran back to the living room.

There were a lot of food on the table, and it looked so messy. She did not know where to start to clean them up.

While she was at a loss, his voice came from behind, "You didn't have dinner, did you?"

She looked back and laughed dryly. "No. I did not. I had work this afternoon and came back late. Do you want to eat some of these?"

He looked towards the table. "I don't think you can finish all these things."

She sat in the sofa, hands on her knees. Looking at the food in front of her, she felt a bit of shame.

He was right. She won't be able to finish them all.

But... Since she had not eaten food like these in a long time, she wanted to try some of everything.

After being silent for a while, she tried again, "Well, I did not intend to waste food. There are often stray cats and dogs outside the community. I usually take the remaining food to them."

He said, "These are spicy food with lots of oil. If they eat..."

Then he paused and added, "Do you often eat like this?"

She hurriedly waved her hand. "No, no. I usually have to work and dare not eat like this. I just want to indulge myself in these few months."

He did not say anything else and simply sat in the single sofa next to her. Then he organized the messy table and all the food was arranged in a clear order.

At this time, the doorbell rang again.

She instantly got up. "It should be my bubble tea and I will go get it!"

After taking the bubble tea and saying thank you to the delivery guy, she walked back and said, "I didn't know you were coming, so I only ordered one cup. What do you want to drink? I can order something else for you."

No need. Water will do, he replied.

Wait a moment, she said.

She put the bubble tea on the table, picked up the water kettle next to it and poured a glass of water for him.

At this time, there came a cry from the TV.

She looked to the sound and found that it was only two minutes before the end of the variety show.

He also looked over.

The next scene was the two of them standing in front of a bookshelf.

Having something on her mind, she subconsciously picked up the remote control quickly and turned off the TV. After that, she felt she might have overreacted. Then she manage an embarrassed smile towards him. "This episode ends here. After that were all commercials, nothing else."

He withdrew his gaze and smiled slightly without replying.

She sat down and tried to maintain an elegant manner while taking a sip of the bubble tea. Finally, she coughed, "Ahem... Well, eat something. It's been a while since they arrived. If we don't eat now, it will get cold."

When eating, she suddenly felt she should let the TV be on. At least the atmosphere between them wouldn't be so awkward with some background noises.

This kind of awkward and silent atmosphere in the room made it difficult for her to digest food.

She squatted beside the table and looked at him. "Did you sister go to Riverside City? When will she be back?"

It should not take long.

Well, how about the little guy? Is he much better now?

Much better than before.

Chapter 750: He Must Have a Purpose Towards Her

After a few words, there was no more talk between them.

Winnie simply lowered her head and focused on eating.

After a while, Channing said, "After you terminate your contract with Conrad Group, do you have any plans?"

Hearing this, she exhaled heavily and leaned back on the sofa. "I haven't really thought about it. Since I don't have much of a vacation these years, I will take a break after finishing my remaining job. As for the other things, I will leave it to the future."

By the way, are you going to start school? she added.

He nodded, "Next week."

She thought about it and said, "You'd better talk to JH Film and ask them to arrange an assistant for you. A lot of your personal information has been exposed online. They know where you study and it's possible that some crazy fans might disturb your private life."

They chatted causally and the atmosphere was getting cozy.

Gradually the food on the table was almost eaten up.

She took advantage of his inattention to look at him for a while.

She had vaguely heard about Stella's family situation and knew that she and Channing had suffered a lot as children. Maybe due to this reason, she had never seen him waste anything... Although he did not talk much, his had a strong sense of presence.

He always looked well-groomed.

She suddenly felt curious about his previous life.

When she was in a daze, he noticed her line of sight and met her gaze. "What's wrong?"

She immediately looked away and said, "Well, nothing. I just feel a bit too full. What about you?"

She went to cleaned up the garbage on the table. "I will go throw these packages away."

He took the garbage in her hand and said, "I will do it. It's late, don't go down."

No. I am too full and have to go down for a walk. Otherwise, I cannot fall asleep.

He was silent for a few seconds and then said, "You'd better get changed."

She was at a loss for words.

Then she looked down and realized that she was still wearing her pajamas.

She hurried back to her bedroom.

When she finished changing her clothes and came out, it was already ten minutes later.

She had brushed her hair, washed her face, and put on lipstick.

Walking over slowly, she took the garbage in his hand, and spoke calmly, "Let's go."

He took his things and followed her with a slight smile.

After getting downstairs and throwing away the trash, they went around the neighborhood for about half an hour. She asked, "When you start school, will you live in the school or continue to live in the rented house?"

I will live in the rented house, he replied.

She believed his words. With such a character, he would prefer some quiet place to the noisy student dormitory.

They went around for a while and when she noticed that it was getting late, she began to walk back.

He sent her to the door of her house, "Go inside."

She turned to look at him, "There should be no subway at this time, so be careful when you go back."

She waved at him, "I will see you next time."

Good night, he said.

She paused before saying, "Good night."

After she closed the door, he withdrew his eyes and stood in place for a few minutes. Then he walked to the escape corridor and looked around to confirm that there was no trace of Chassell being here. Then, he left by the stairs.

When he got downstairs, he found a place to sit down, took out his phone and started to read an essay.

At 2:00 a.m., when the security patrolled by, he noticed someone sitting there and came over. Finally, he asked with uncertainty, "Channing? What are you doing here in the middle of the night?" Channing raised his head and licked his lips silently. "Nothing."

The security guard understood that he wasn't in the mood to talk, so he did not ask more questions. Instead, he simply said, "Why don't you sit in the security room? It's quite cold out here. They just bought some food, so you can go and eat some."

Channing said, "Thank you. I am not hungry. Please don't worry. I will leave soon."

The security did not intend to stay since he had not finished patrolling. "Okay. If you need anything, just go to the security room and ask them for help."

After the security guard left, Channing felt a bit tired of sitting, so he put away his phone and paced back and forth downstairs.

And he spent the whole night like that.

When the dawn came, and more people appeared in the community, he then left.

Winnie woke up, feeling sinful eating so much yesterday, and decided to go for a morning run.

When she came back from two laps around the artificial lake next to the community, she was called by a security guard. "Miss Truman." She turned back and asked, "What's wrong?"

He came over mysteriously and said in a low voice, "Did you and your boyfriend have a fight last night?"

She felt surprised. "What?"

He said, "He stood downstairs all-night last night. I asked him to come to the security room to sit for a while but he refused."

She got stunned. "My boyfriend stood all night... You mean Channing?"

Yes. It's Chan. He didn't leave until dawn. You two didn't have a fight, huh? he asked.

No... Well, no fight. She was silent for a few seconds before saying, "Thank you."

You are welcome.

On her way back, she walked carelessly, wondering why Channing would stay downstairs all night.

When she reached the door and looked to the escape corridor beside, she suddenly remembered the time when Chassell came to her.

When Channing came last night, he told her that Chassell had run away.

She did a double take before realizing that, could it be that he stayed here all night because of Chassell's escape?

When she got home, she lay down in the sofa, looking at the ceiling and thinking about something.

After a while, her phone rang and a friend asked her to go out shopping in the afternoon.

She happened to have nothing to do and wanted to find something to occupy herself from her flying imagination, so she agreed.

While shopping, her friend said, "Are you still unhappy about the terminating the contract?"

She retracted her thoughts and barely managed to gather some energy. "No."

Then what's wrong? her friend asked.

She made an excuse, "I was watching a drama last night and stayed up late. I did not sleep well."

Her friend said, "You watch dramas, huh? What are you watching? Do you have a recommendation?"

Well, I watched whatever was on TV, she replied.

Ah, I've been watching a romantic drama these days, a good one for killing the time. You can watch it too. Her friend added, "It's about a young boy who loves a girl older than him. It's so sweet and I felt my heart was melting."

She did not know what to say and suddenly felt disinterested.

At this time, a boy and a girl were shopping around them.

The boy directly called the girl's name before saying something to her.

The girl got angry and said, "How many times do I have to tell you that I am two years older than you? You should call me sister. Don't be so impolite."

He did not say anything but stuck out his tongue at her before running away.

Winnie's friend could not help but whispering to her ears, "Did you see that? He did not call her sister because he has a purpose towards her."000