Ch. 561..570

Chapter 561

She remembered Bruce living in the building in front of hers, but she forgot which level it was. Thus, she sent him a text to ask about it.

When Bruce opened the door, she saw him dressed in an apron, which made him look rather charming. "You should join a cooking show, You'll definitely get tons of views," Gencvieve commented.

"I'm not interested in variety shows." Bruce smiled faintly and opened the door wider to let her

1. in.

It was her second visit to liis house. This time, she naturally took out the slippers from the cabinet and put them on before handing him the bottle of red wine. "I'm not going to cat for frec." Pointing at the bottle of wine in the bag, she said, "It costs one hundred and eighty thousand. It should be worth exchanging for lunch, right?"

Bruce could not resist chuckling. "That's more than enough."

Genevieve followed him into the borderless kitchen and noticed the spread of ingredients on the kitchen counter.

"I went to the supermarket to get some vegetables, and it took up too much time," explained Bruce. At the same time, he took out a piece of cake from the refrigerator and gave it to her. It was from Unique. "Here, you can have some dessert first."

"I bought a cake from the same shop this morning, too." Genevieve placed the box on the kitchen counter and opened it. "Huh?"

It was the two-layered chocolate cake.

Turning her head, she said to Bruce, "This shop's two-layered chocolate cake is amazing. I wanted to buy it today, but the staff said it's only made by their boss. How did you get it?"

"I bought it on the way back from the supermarket," Bruce said, his eyes twinkling.

Genevieve said with envy, "You're so lucky to be able to buy the dessert made personally by their boss. Well, I won't disturb you anymore. I'll wait in the living room."

Grinning, she carried the piece of cake to the living room and ate it while watching a drama.

Genevieve had minor insomnia. It would usually take her a long time tossing in bed before she finally fell asleep. However, the couch emanated a faint woody fragrance, which smelled just like

Bruce.

It allowed a person to fall asleep casily.

The couch was too comfortable that Genevieve fell asleep without realizing it.,

When Bruce was done cooking, he called out to Genevieve, telling her lunch was ready. Ilowever,

there was no response. Thus, he went to the living room, only to find Gencvicvc had fallen asleep.

He slowly approached her and placed a blanket over her:

Watching her sleeping soundly, he leaned over and planted a light kiss on her lips. Only then did he move away reluctantly.

Genevieve's cyclashes fluttered. When she opened her eyes, Bruce's face, which was close to hers,

came into her view.

Bruce had a gentle gaze, and his eyes sparkled with emotions.

Feeling her heart skip a beat, she quickly sat up on the couch and turned her head away to avoid meeting his gaze. "Is lunch ready?" "Yes." As Bruce pulled away the strands of hair that were stuck to the corner of her mouth, his fingers accidentally brushed her lips. Genevieve stiffened, but he got up and walked away as if nothing happened.

She then placed the blanket on the couch, wanting to get up to have lunch. Suddenly, she felt a warm and moist feeling between her legs. She quickly snatched the blanket over and covered her legs frantically.

Oh my goodness. I'm only here to eat. I can't believe an accident happened.

Bruce, who was taking the utensils to the dining room, noticed Genevieve still had not gone over. He asked in puzzlement, "What's wrong? Are your legs numb from sleeping too long?" "No." Genevieve glanced at the couch. It was made of fabric instead of leather. Oh no. This is bad.

Hence, Bruce went over. He seemed to have understood the situation when he saw the blanket on her legs and the way she sat motionless in a specific posture.

Plastering a smile on his face, he uttered, "It's fine. I can just clean the couch if it's stained."

"Can I take the blanket with me?" Genevieve was dressed in a greyish-pink fishtail skirt. A tiny stain would look extremely obvious on her outfit.

"Ms. Rachford, it's not convenient for you to return like this." Bruce pointed at the corridor on the side. "There's a guest room there. Why don't you take a bath while I go over to your house to get you some fresh clothes?"

Right then, Genevieve pictured herself walking down the corridor outside. There were even surveillance cameras in the elevator. Hence, it would indeed be a little embarrassing to walk around with a blanket around her.

Taking out an elevator access card, she handed it to Bruce and told him the password to her electronic lock.

Genevieve did not get up from the couch until Bruce left.

The couch was dark brown, but the part where the stain scepcd in was quite obvious. Grabbing a piece of wet wipe, she wiped it bricily before going to the guest room.

The room was bright and clean. There was even a new towel and other toiletrics in the bathroom.

Genevieve removed licr clothes, put them aside, and took a hot shower. By the time she was done, Bruce was back with lict cloilies and son pads.

Chapter 562

Placing the things outside the bathroom door, Bruce made a few knocks and left.

After putting on the dress, Genevieve walked over to the dining room. She was still a little embarrassed to sec Bruce, "I'll transfer you the money for the couch later."

"It's fine. A stained couch can still be used. It's a small matter. Don't worry about it, Ms. Rachford." Bruce refilled the bowls with some hot stew.

"I'll make you a hot drink after lunch," he added.

Murmuring in reply, she took a piece of braised pork and stuffed it into her mouth. It tasted heavenly, and it was not too greasy.

It was so delicious that she could not help but exclaim, "Bruce, how are your cooking skills so good? This is as delicious as the ones made by the chefs out there. What am I going to do if I become picky because of you! I'm going to starve to death if I can't eat the food sold outside."

Bruce placed the dip he made near her hand and smiled upon hearing her words. "Then, you can come here for every meal. I'll be at home when I'm not filming."

"We'll see," Genevieve responded vaguely while munching on her food.

Bruce's braised pork was so delicious that Genevieve almost finished the entire plate.

Right then, she remembered her conversation with Jane that morning. "I have a friend whose health isn't in a good condition," she stated. "I want her to live happily, but she's fallen for someone she isn't allowed to love. I don't know whether I should help her or make her give

Bruce asked, "Is it a family problem?"

Genevieve sighed. "It's more complicated than that. The person she likes is somewhat related to her. It's against the morals of the world for them to be together."

That was why Genevieve was feeling so conflicted at the office in the morning. She did not dare to give Jane advice, nor did she dare to help the latter.

With everything Genevieve had told him, Bruce could pretty much figure out who it was.

His pupils narrowed. Clearly, he was surprised.

Ever since he brought Jane back to Jadeborough, she would always get Steven or Cooper's help when something came up. Sometimes, he would get Jane to join him for a meal with Cooper. Never did he expect Jane to secretly harbor feelings for Cooper.

However, Jane had been unwell since young and had been resting at home most of the time. She rarely got the chance to talk to somcone of the opposite gender. Hence, Bruce could understand why Jane had fallen for Cooper.

Quickly recollecting himself, Bruce asked, "Do many people know about their relationship?"

Genevieve shook her head. "It's just Steven and me. The other person who knows is already..."

She continued eating and said no more.

Bruce swept a glance at her face and smiled subtly. "Who's going to condemn them if there are only two people who know about their relationship? You? Steven? It'll be too late for regrets if a person doesn't cherish the one they love right now."

That last sentence was meant for himself.

Back then, Bruce suppressed his feelings and told Genevieve a lie because he did not want to see her leaving with another man again. In the end, it became a tragedy for both of them. What he regretted the most were the things he said to Genevieve that night outside the building.

Genevieve sensed Bruce's dejected tone and dark expression. Immediately, she recalled the scene where his ex-girlfriend came looking for him at the film festival in Baykeep.

Suddenly, she lost all her appetite to cat. "I'm full," she said with displeasure.

Seeing her suddenly put down her utensils made Bruce realize something was off. "Genev, I think you've misunderstood something. I—"

Genevieve cut him off, "Address me as Ms. Rachford. Don't use my name. Whatever you're thinking has nothing to do with me. I'm very full now. Thank you for the meal." With that, she pushed the chair and went to the living room to get her bag and her keys.

Before Bruce could even run after her, he heard the door slamming shut.

He frowned, feeling frustrated. At the same time, he scolded himself inwardly. Ugh. I should've just focused on talking about the situation. Why did I have to bring myself into the conversation? However, the fact that Genevieve left in anger showed she cared about him.

Even so, he did not know whether he should be feeling happy or jealous.

He was right beside Genevieve, yet he could only meet her with another person's identity. Perhaps the person she likes is the owner of this face.

Chapter 563

Bruce walked to the living room. Taking out a pack of cigarettes from the drawer, he lit á cigarette and called Steven. "Is there no news yet?"

Steven, who was on the other end of the call, was speechless. It's been only a few days since you last asked. Do you really think there will be neros so soon!

He replied tactfully. "I'm already doing my best to get people to look for them."

Sadly, the drug rescarch institute was demolished five years ago. The employees were either dead from illnesses, or they were sent to work for the government. It was difficult to find them. Bruce took a puff of the cigarette and said hoarsely. "Work faster. You can tell Cooper about this matter if needed."

"Mr. Sutton is smart. He'll definitely suspect you if we do that."

"What else can we do, then? I'm afraid she won't remember me if this drags out more. I'm worried Mandy might forget me as well." Bruce breathed.

His daughter was such a cute girl, yet he had not seen her once since her birth.

Steven sensed the sadness in Bruce's tone, which made the former feel a stab of pain in his heart. "Okay."

During her journey home after leaving Bruce's house, Genevieve suddenly realized what he said was right.

There was no need to care about what others thought if a person really liked someone.

Hence, Genevieve drove off to meet Cooper at Specter Corporation.

Cooper seemed to be taking his medication the moment she entered his office. Seeing that, she asked concernedly, "Coop, are you feeling unwell?"

"Yes. I have a bit of a cold." Cooper quietly returned the medicines into his drawer as Genevieve walked in. "Why are you here?"

"I need to talk to you about something." Genevieve pulled up a chair and sat in it.

Adjusting his glasses, Cooper eyed Genevieve suspiciously. "What is it? Are you going to make me invest in Bruce's movie again?"

Genevieve waved her hand dismissively and said with a stern face', "This is about Jane."

Cooper frowned upon hearing that. "Well, here I was thinking she was a smart one. I didn't expect her to go looking for you and spouting nonsense. Looks like I'm treating her too kindly." "Coop, Jane really likes you."

There are many women who like me." Cooper snorted and dialed for his secretary to bring hini

a cup of coffee.

Letting out a sigh, Genevieve relaxed and leaned against the chair. "I hate you for accidentally killing my parents, but that's because of Samantha. It has nothing to do with you. For the past few years, you've done so much for me and the company. I stopped hating you long ago. In fact, I see you as a family member now. Coop. I really hope you can forget about the past and live your own life."

Cooper gazed at Genevieve for a long time before finally saying, "I've said this before, and I'll say it again. I'll never remarry in this lifetime. If you don't want to see me in the future, I can get Bertilla to contact you instead."

"No. It's not that I don't want to see you. I just hope you can live a better life," refuted Genevieve with a frown.

"I'm doing quite well now."

"I'm sure you have moments when you're tired and need somcone to talk to," Genevieve muttered. "Coop. you like Jane too, right? I know you as well as you know me. You're not someone who opens up easily. You wouldn't treat a girl so well if you don't have feelings for her. The celebrity from my company has told me everything that happened that night at the award ceremony." Cooper's face remained deadpan even after the long speech Genevieve made. With a cold tone, he said, "If Jane tells you another stupid nonsense, I'll make Steven send her back to Yedells." Genevieve cyed the man who would not be convinced, no matter what she said. She had no choice but to give up.

While waiting for the elevator, Genevieve heard two of Specter Corporation's employees discussing their trip to the floating lantern event at Primrose River tomorrow night. One girl mentioned she would be attending it with a date.

Soon, the elevator arrived on the first floor.

Bertilla stumbled into Genevieve, who was exiting the elevator. "Hello, Ms. Rachford," he briefly greeted her before leaving

"Wait," Genevieve called "Bertilla, do you have a girlfriend?"

Bertilla watched Genevieve scrutinizing him. For some reason, it made his hairs stand on their ends.

Chapter 564

The next day, Genevieve went off to have lunch with Jane after settling some things in the company.

When they were donc ordering their food, Genevieve poured some coffee for both of them. "Jane, do you have any plans tonight?"

"No."

"Me too. Why don't we go to Primrose River to fly some lanterns?" Genevieve took a sip of the coffee and said with a smile, "I heard that making wishes while releasing the lanterns can make them come truc."

Jane held her cup and said absentmindedly, "Okay."

Soon, the dishes were served. Genevieve ate a piece of stir-fried beef, and she frowned. It differed from the one Bruce made.

I come to this restaurant all the time. Why didn't I find it bland in the past? Looks like I've overestimated myself. Bruce has only made me three meals, and it has ruined my palate. Sceing Genevieve sigh, Jane lifted her head to look at the former. "What's wrong, Genevieve?"

"It's nothing."

With every bite Genevieve took, she could not help but compare the food to Bruce's cooking. The more she compared the dishes, the harder it was for her to eat.

After taking a few bites of the food, she put down her utensils.

When Genevieve and Jane returned to the company, the receptionist stopped the former. "Ms. Rachford, your lunch has arrived."

Seeing the receptionist taking out a bear-patterned lunch box, Genevieve said, "I didn't order anything for lunch, though. Did Bertilla from Specter Corporation deliver this?" "No."

Right then, Genevieve's phone vibrated. It was a WhatsApp message from Bruce.

It read: Ms. Rachford, I've prepared some grilled meat and pesto pasta today. I've sent someone to deliver it to your company. Hah! Who wants to eat your cooking?

Genevieve mocked him in her heart. At first, she wanted to let the receptionist get rid of it, but in the end, she still brought the lunchbox back to her office.

Thelunchbox had two layers. The top layer contained pieces of grilled meat wrapped in lettuce, which were neatly arranged in the container, while the bottom layer contained pesto pasta. They looked incredibly appetizing.

After arranging them properly on the table, Genevieve placed a piece of readily wrapped grilled

mcat into her mouth.

"The mcat was grilled to perfection. With thic savoriness of thic sauce and the sweetness from the lettuce, it was amazingly delicious.

As she was busy munching on the food, she received another text.

Bruce wrote: Ms. Rachford, you really misunderstood me yesterday. I wasn't thinking of Coco. I just remembered a scene from a movie and felt sad.

He sent another text: Besides, I dislike women. Didn't you notice / slayed away from Coco when she came looking for me that day?

Another one canic in: It's okay if you don't want to see me. Just let me know what you want to eat. I can get someone to send it to you. By the way, I'm going to Frosa to film a movie on the si.cth.

Genevieve was stunned by the chain of messages sent by Bruce.

An all actors that obscrvant? I didn't say anything yesterdaybut he still realized why I was angry.

However, the fact that he was so understanding made her feel that she was being too petty.

Moreover, she was not in a relationship with him, which made it a little odd for her to get angry by misunderstanding him for thinking about his ex-girlfriend.

Even so, Genevieve quickly found an excuse for herself. I was just worried Bruce might fall for his er girlfriend's attacks. If that happens, it'll ruin his career that's starting to go well. She felt much better at that thought.

After finishing the grilled meat, Genevieve finally replied to his text: I'll let you know what I want for tomorrow.

Bruce: Okay. There's a sky lantern festival at Primrose River tonight. Would you like to go?

Genevieve stared at the text for a while before replying: I've invited a friend to the festival tonight. I'll see you there.

Bruce replied with a cute, nodding emoji.

Both of them texted each other a lot, but it only contained words, which made the conversation look serious. Thus, Genevieve burst out laughing when she saw the emoji Bruce sent, Soon, Genevieve finished the grilled meat and pasta, and she felt slightly bloated.

I bet his cooking skills actually aren't that great. He must've added some special spice to the dishes he prepared for me. That must be why I crave his food all the time.

She worked hard until it was six o'clock in the evening. Then, she went to the lounge to change out of her office attire before going to the film department to look for Jane.

When Genevieve and Jane arrived at Primrose River, the sun had already set, and many people

had already gathered by the bank.

Primrose River was Jadeborough's main river. Bencat the Bridge of Truth were many cafes and dessert shops along the bank. Every night, the decorative lights on the Bridge of Truth would change their colors according to the night. It was a great place for a walk and picture-taking

Every year, during the Sky Lantern Festival, thousands of people would come to Primrose River to fly their lanterns, making it a majestic sight.

Genevieve sent Berulla a text to inform him they had arrived at Primrose River.

Meanwhile, at Specter Corporation, Bertilla, who received Genevieve's text, took a deep breath and mustered his courage to knock on the CEO's door.

Entering the office, Bertilla said in an awkward tone, "Mr. Sutton, you'll have to drive to the club on your own later. I'm going to Primrose River for the Sky Lantern Festival tonight."

Chapter 565

"You're single. What are you going there for?" skce Cooper, without lifting his licad.

"I've got a date."

Upon hearing that, Cooper lifted his headline cyce Bertilla. "You should be meeting someone at this age. Okay, then. You may leave."

Bertilla humed in response. Before exiting the ollice, le said casually, "Ms. Rachford was the one who introduced me to that girl. She's really pretty. I think she's Mr. Faulkner's cousin." Hearing that, Cooper narrowed his eyes and queried, "You mcan Jane Faulkner?"

-Yes."

When Bertilla left the roon. Cooper suddenly felt uncasy. Hence, he picked up his phone and dialed Genevieve's number. "Genev, why did you introduce Jane to Bertilla?"

"Why not? Bertilla's single anyway."

Cooper massaged his knitted brows. "Jane's heart is unwell. How would Bertilla-"

Smiling, Genevieve interrupted, "I've told Bertilla about this already. He says he doesn't mind it. Coop, don't inake him stay in the oflice today, okay? It's the Sky Lantern Festival. What if they end up together by releasing a lantern? Wouldn't that be amazing?"

Amazing my foot!

Cooper hung up, suppressing his frustration.

After contemplating for some time, he picked up the coat from the stand and marched out of his office.

Bertilla was leaving at the same time. When he saw Cooper walking over, the former surmised Cenevieve's predictions were right. Despite that, he still approached Cooper and asked casually. "Mr. Sutton, are you leaving for the club so soon?"

"You're going on my behalf. I'm going to Primrose River." Cooper put on his coat with a stern expression

Bertilla was stunned. "But 14"

Cooper cut in impatiently, "Genev invited me. It wasn't easy inviting Mr. Shepherd to Jadeborough, I can't stand him up, so you'll deliver the gift on my chall. Your task tonight will be counted as overtime. You'll get four days of leave in replacement."

"Okay." Wow. I get a short vacation by just delivering something. This is such a great deal!

Bertilla was so clated that he almost burst out laughing. I wonder if Mr. Sutton will get mad once he finds out the truth.

Upon arriving at the underground parking lot, Cooper handed Bertilla the gift and asked, "Do you have Jane's number?"

"No," Bertilla admitted. "Ms. Rachford only sent me Ms. Jane's picture."

"Delete it," Cooper ordered coldly before opening the door and entering the car.

Bertilla watched the car speed out of the underground parking lot before taking out his phone and sending Genevieve a text to inform her that Cooper was on his way.

Meanwhile, a victorious smile appeared on Genevieve's face as soon as she read the text.

I knew he'd not sit still.

Since it was not time to release the lanterns, Jane and Genevieve strolled along the riverbank. Seeing the subtle smile on the latter's face, Jane asked curiously, "Genevieve, why are you smiling so happily?"

"It's sky lantern day. Of course I'm happy," Genevieve said, grinning.

She led Jane through the crowd to get some sky lanterns from the convenience store beside the cafe.

At the same time, more people were slowly gathering on both sides of the riverbank.

A gentle breeze blew past when it was time to release the lanterns. Many people lit up theirs that had wishes written on them. Upon releasing them into the sky, they watched the lanterns move with the wind.

Candle flames flickered all over the sky, making it a majestic and breathtaking sight. Thanks to the candlelights, the dark sky looked like the milky way.

Genevieve was born and bred in Jadeborough. If not for her studies abroad that prevented her from returning, she would have come back every year and attended the Sky Lantern Festival with Cooper and her parents.

Being surrounded by sky lanterns made her feel as if she was the happiest person on earth.

Though it had been a few years since she last joined the festival, the place was still as crowded and mind-blowing as ever. Even so, she felt a little lonely.

She felt that she should not be enjoying such a beautiful scene alone.

The massive crowd squeezed their way through in every direction, and continuous laughter rang out in the air. Through her blurry vision, Genevieve could vaguely see a towering back standing alone in the dark. It was as if he was wrapped in an air of loneliness.

Genevieve could see his figure slowly becoming clearer as the lanterns' lights shone on him. Subconsciously, she took a step forward and started running over.

She got closer and closer until both of them were only half a meter apart. Stopping in her tracks, she stared at the man's back and probed, "A-Armand?"

The tall man turned around, revealing the fox mask on his face. His pitch-black eyes, hiding behind the mask, stared fixedly at hier.

Boldly stepping forward, Genevieve went on her liptoc and removed the man's mask.

She instantly gasped,

Chapter 566

In the meantime, Jane gazed at the lanterns in the sky and turned around, wanting to ask Genevieve if she would like to release theirs. Ilowever, the latter was nowhere near her.

Jane was about to call Genevieve when call cane in

She answered it without hesitation. "Hello?"

"Where are you?"

"I'm at Primrose River with Genevi,"

"I know. Is there a church near your location?" Cooper was breathing heavily through the phone as if he was walking fast.

Jane was stunned. "No, We're on the other side of the church. There are many cafes here."

She lifted her head and glanced at the other side of the river. Thanks to the light from the sky lanterns, she spotted a tall, sturdy man passing through the crowd while talking on the phone. It did not take long for the man to spot her, and they met each other's gazes.

Cooper did not stop in his tracks. Instead, he hung up and pointed to the small bridge in front of him that allowed visitors to cross to the other side.

Jane nodded in understanding and passed through the crowd, running toward the bridge, just like Cooper.

There were many visitors on the bridge who were releasing their lanterns as well.

Jane walked up the bridge, panting. When she saw Cooper on the other end, she paused briefly and ran toward him without hesitation.

As Cooper watched Jane dashing toward him, he suddenly recalled a statement. "I don't remember when I started falling for her. As long as I hear her laughter, I'll instinctively look at her. I'll be happy on days when I get to talk to her, and life will feel mcaningless when I don't get lo do sol'd be bothered if she's on close terms with someone else. And when we're alone, I hope we can be like that forever. By the time I realized this, she's already become the most special person on caribi."

He stood there resignedly with his arms wide open. As soon as Janc leaped toward him, he held her tight.

Cooper sighed and said sofily Jane, I'm not a good person. You know my past. Everything I have belongs to Genev. I have nothing. Il Gency is in danger, I'll clic on her bchall without thinking twice. Do you understand?"

"I understand, but I don't mind that. I just hope I can be with you." Jane hugged him tightly.

"I can't marry you, nor can I make love with you. Are you okay with that?"

"Yes." responded Jane, trying her best to tiptoc and planting a kiss on his lips. "Surely I can kiss and hug you?"

Cooper was suddenly at a loss for words upon lecling the soft sensation on his lips. "You're still young. It's not like you have a terminal illness. I really hope you can live a great lifc." "My life hasn't been great all this while, but it has become great now that there's you in it," said Janc.

Gazing at Cooper passionately, she added in a gentle and determined tone, "I don't care about anything else. I'll be happy as long as I can hug you and spend every day with you." Cooper caressed her hair before cupping her face in his hands and kissing her lips gently.

Standing among the crowd, both of them hugged and kissed each other under the lights of the sky lanterns.

On the other end of things, Genevieve looked slightly disappointed when she saw the man's face after removing the fox mask.

She asked him immediately, "Why didn't you tell me you were already here?"

Bruce waved his phone at her with a grin. "I was about to send you a text when I heard a familiar voice behind me. By the time I turned around, I noticed you're already here..." His eves flickered for a moinent, and he asked, "Ms. Rachford, whose name were you shouting just now?"

"Oh, it's no one. You just looked like someone I knew from the back," Genevieve said absentmindedly. She had no idea why she suddenly thought of Armand.

I don't even love him anymore.

Bruce's eyes lit up with a smile when he heard that. "Really? Who do you think is more handsome, then? Him or me?"

He knew Genevieve no longer had strong feelings for the other person, but the fact that she called his name carlier showed that she still remembered him.

Studying his handsome face, Genevieve gave an honest answer. "Of course, you're more handsome. You're a celebrity. Naturally, you look better. Ilowever..." She paused before adding, "He has many things that you don't."

Chapter 567

Bruce relaxed his furrowed brows upon licaring her last sentence. He then bent down and picked up a lantern next to her fect. "Whicre do you want to relcasc thc lantern, Ms. Rachford?"

It was at that moment that Genevieve finally remembered shic carne with Jane. She was too focused on chasing after Bruce that she Icf Jauc behind.

"Later. I need to send a text." There are too many people. I doubt I can find Jane.

"Are you looking for Mr. Sutton?" Bruce asked, raising his hand and pointing ahead.

Genevieve shifted her gaze in the direction of his finger and spotted a couple kissing on the Crowded bridge.

She then launched her camera app, zooming in to see who they were.

Turning her head to look at Bruce, she asked in puzzlement, "They're so far. I can't even see them clearly. How did you recognize it was Coop?"

"I've got good eyesight. Besides, his suit is too conspicuous," Bruce said.

That's true. I ho on earth would come to fly a lantern in a suit?

After that, Genevieve carried the lanterns and walked to a less crowded spot with Bruce. Sighing, she said, "Jane is just a few months younger than I am. If she ends up with Coop, does that mean she'll be sister-in-law?"

Bruce thought for a moment before saying, "Or you can have Mr. Sutton regard you as someone older than him, just like Jane does."

"Does teasing me make you that happy?" Genevieve glared at him.

She then borrowed a pen from a girl who was releasing her lantern by the side and wrote a few wishes on the lantern,

The moment she lit the candle, someone accidentally bumped into her.

Bruce hurriedly snatched the candle from her and threw it onto the ground before placing an arm in front of her, preventing her from knocking into the railing "Sorry," the person apologized quickly

After recollecting hersell, Genevieve quickly grabbed Bruce's arm. As she saw the burnt mark on his palnt, she rushed off to the nearest store and bought two bottles of water to help him clean it.

Surprisingly, Bruce asked lier, "Are you okay? Did your hair get buru?"

As he said that, he used his hand to comb through her hair, examining it.

**I'm fine." Soon, the two bottles of water were emptied. She sighed with relief upon seeing the redness on his palm had faded. "Thank you for what you did earlier."

"It's fine. As long as your hair isn't burnt," said Bruce.

After that minor incident, Genevieve did not want to release the lantern anymore. However, Bruce said it would be a waste since she had already written her wishes on it. Hence, they went into the store and bought a new candle.

Genevieve placed the lit candle in the lantern and watched it fly away, joining the dozens of lanterns in the sky.

She could not help but find the scene before her extremely beautiful. Even the feeling of loneliness from earlier had vanislicd.

Glancing at her watch, Genevieve guessed Amanda was awake. Thus, she made a video call.

The call got through almost instantly.

The little girl sat on the bed with her hair tousled up, her cheeks rosy, and her eyes groggy.

"Mommy..." Amanda spoke and behaved cutely in front of Genevieve.

Seeing her cute behavior, Genevieve could not help but smile. "Guess why I am giving you a video call."

"Why? Have you found a boyfriend?" asked Amanda curiously.

"No!" Genevieve's lips twitched. She then turned around and raised her phone up high so Amanda could see the beautiful scenery. "Oh! It's the Sky Lantern Festival at your place now!" Looking at the beautiful scenery in the video, Amanda exclaimed, "It's so pretty!" She quickly hopped off the bed and dashed into the room next door to look for Lucian. "Lucian, look! It's so beautiful at Mommy's!" Lucian glanced at it briefly in a deadpan manner. "It's not bad."

At first, Bruce had slightly distanced himself from Genevieve when he saw her making a call. However, when he heard the children's cute voices, he could not help but get closer.

Chapter 568

Bruce had sent a lot of his men over to Dartan to protect the kids in secret ever since he found out about them.

They would send him pictures and videos from time to time, but it couldn't compare to seeing his kids up close like this.

The two kids were leaning against each other as they spoke to Genevieve on the phone.

The girl looks even prettier than Genevieve with her rosy checks and big, beautiful eyes. As for her brother... I have never erpected him to look so much like me when I was a child! llock, even his personality is similar to mine! I suppose it's a good thing I look handsome, huh?

Bruce thought to himself as he watched from the side, and the kids noticed him as well.

"Mommy, the guy next to you keeps leaning closer and closer. Is he a pervert or something?" Lucian asked in displeasure when he spotted Bruce in the corner of the screen.

Oh, right... I was so focused on showing them the beautiful sights that I forgot Bruce was standing right nert to mc.

With that in mind, Genevieve replied, "No, he's Mr. Sutton's friend."

Amanda ran forward and asked excitedly, "Where's Mr. Sutton, Mommy?"

"He went off to buy something.""

"Oh, okay..." Amanda had a disappointed look on her face.

Seconds later, she shifted her gaze toward the man who was standing next to Genevieve. "Mommy, can I have a look at this man's face?"

Genevieve turned around and asked, "Is it okay for my daughter to see your face?"

Bruce had been wanting to talk to the kids, so he jumped at the opportunity that she provided and bent over to greet the kids.

"Hello there!"

Amanda's eyes lit up the moment she saw him. "Whoa! You're really handsome, mister!"

"Really? Thank you very much for the compliment! What's your name?" Bruce was so happy that he wished the video call could go on forever. "I'm Mandy! What about you, mister?"

Bruce hesitated for a bit before replying, "I'll tell you when we meet."

"I don't think that day will ever come, mister. Mommy won't let us go to Chanaça," Amanda said with a pout while casting Genevieve a glance. "That's because you kids are still too young for long-haul flights. I'm sure we'll be able to meet cach other someday!" Bruce said with a smile. Amanda couldn't help but feel that Bruce was a very friendly person.

Seeing as the video call had gone on for over twenty minutes and the housekeeper was calling for the kids to come down for breakfast, Genevieve ended the call. Amanda looked a little disappointed when she saw the screen go black.

She then went looking for her brother in the bathroom and asked, "Lucian, do you feel like something is off about the man who was standing next to Mommy?" "Like what? Him being too handsome?" Lucian asked after rinsing his mouth.

"No, it's the stuff that he says. It reminds me of the times when I'd talk to Daddy. Also, he's really gentle when he speaks."

Amanda stared at Lucian for a few seconds before continuing hesitantly, "It feels like I was talking to Daddy"

Lucian simply stared at her speechlessly in response.

"It's true! I've spoken to Daddy on the phone a few times before, and he'd always be reluctant to end the call!" Amanda exclaimed when she saw that Lucian didn't bel "But this man isn't our daddy. Daddy is dead." Lucian replied coldly while wiping his face with a towel.

Upon hearing that, Amanda lowered her head in disappointment.

Yeah, he's right. Daddy is dead.

Meanwhile, Genevieve put her phone back into her handbag, saying, "I'm sorry. My daughter is a real chatterbox and would always pester her brother at home. I hope you don't mind." The look in Bruce's eyes turned soft and gentle at the mention of his daughter. "Of course not! She's as cute as you are!"

Chapter 569

Genevieve knew he was only saying that casually, but her cars still turned slightly red when she heard that.

As Bruce liad hailed a cab there and didn't bring Joash with him, Genevieve drove him back since they were both staying at Regality Gardens,

Her phone rang when she got near the city

Since it was an unknown number, she hesitated for a few seconds before answering the call. "Hello? Who is this?"

"Hello, Ms. Rachford. I know you've been looking for a witness to Johanna's assault." The person on the other line was a man trying to keep his voice low.

The look on Genevieve's face tensed up immediately. "Did you see what happened?"

"No..." The man paused for a few seconds before continuing, "You see, I am the one who assaulted Johanna. It was Sylvie who hired me to do it. I can help you testify against her if you pay me a sum of money to leave Jadeborough and promise not to come after me."

Genevieve had pulled lots of strings to find the culprit but to no avail.

Now that the culprit had contacted her on his own accord, she agreed to his deal without any hesitation. "I know you were just doing your job, so I promise not to hold you accountable. Will you tell me where you are right now? I'd like to meet up with you."

As the guy didn't say anything in response, Genevieve added, "The fact that you're calling me right now means things must've turned ugly between you and Sylvie. You helped her kill someone, so she's definitely going to silence you to ensure her own safety. Now, I can guarantee yours if you meet up with me. Besides, who else can you trust except me?"

Hmm... What she says does make sense.

With that in mind, the guy provided Genevieve with an address after a brief moment of hesitation.

Genevieve then drove straight for the city, ignoring all the red lights along the way.

"There's something I need to take care of, so I'll drop you off by the side of the road. You can hail a cab home or something," she said.

"No, I'll go with you. I could be of some help in case something happens," Bruce replied.

Although Genevieve was using a Bluetooth earphone when talking on the phone carlier, the car was quict enough for him to hear their conversation.

Genevieve simply shot him a glance and continued driving in silence.

About ten minutes later, they arrived outside the fast food restaurant stated on the address.

The place had two floors and was open twenty-four hours, so there were still people dining there at the timc.

Gencvicve put on a cap that she had borrowed from Brucc and ran into the restaurant. However. she couldn't find the man in the black jacket even after searching both floors.

She then tried giving him a call, but his phone had been switched off.

Right as Genevieve's Nicart sank, her phone started ringing all of a sudden.

She quickly answered the call, only to realize it was Bruce on the phone. "I'm afraid the guy you want to meet is already dead..."

Learning that, Genevieve ran out of the fast food restaurant and hurried back to Bruce's car.

Apparently, there had been a car accident on the street next to the fast food restaurant about five minutes ago. The man's motorcycle was crushed to pieces in the crash, and he died on the spot Genevieve pushed her way through the crowd, only to see a man in a black jacket lying in a pool of blood.

She was so shaken up that her legs gave out beneath her. Fortunately, Bruce was there to hold her steady.

Genevieve's lips were pale as she grabbed onto his arm and muttered through clenched teeth, "I was so close!"

Even after rushing over as quickly as she could, she was still a step too late.

Meanwhile, in Baykeep, Herbert had been feeling unwell lately and was going to get some rest after taking his medication. However, a sudden phone call caused him to lose all sense of drowsiness instantly.

He hurried downstairs and shouted at the driver, "Ask Sylvie where she is! Tell her to come home right away!"

The driver was about to make the phone call when the doorbell rang. He then opened the door and saw Sylvie standing outside.

She was wearing exquisite makeup as if she had just returned from a formal event.

Chapter 570

Sylvie ran up to Herbert and wrapped her arms around his as she said. "Hi, Granddad! The doctor said you should go to bed carly, remember?"

Initially, Herbert was going to yell at her, but her sudden display of affection and concern softened his licart up.

"I got a call from Gunther carlier. He told me you hired a truck driver to kill somconc. Why would you do such a thing?" he asked while glaring at her. The look in Sylvie's eyes turned gloomy when she realized someone had ratted her out.

Angered by her response, Herbert shouled, "I'm a soldier, not a gangster! Do you know how much trouble you could bring your three uncles by doing so? I've warned you last time, Sylvic! You promised you wouldn't do it again, so why did you go against your word?"

I had thought of teaching Armand a lesson afier seeing Sylvie cry because of him, but I didn't expect her to go this far! She contacted those people using my name and attacked Central Group with all sorts of scandals. Not only did she destroy the entire organization, but she also got Armand killed in the process. My entire life has been spent serving my country. I have never abused my power to do anything immoral, nor have I allowed my son to collude with businessmen. My wife died of depression after we lost our second daughter, so I've been showering Sylvie with as much love and affection as possible. I even went as far as helping those businessmen out so Sylvie wouldn't be bullied in the entertainment industry! I can't believe she would end up doing something as cruel as killing people through hired guns!

Realizing how angry Herbert was, Sylvie patted him on the back as she said, "I'm sorry, Granddad. Please don't be mad at me. It's bad for your health to get angry like this. I didn't want to do this but he forced my hand! You had someone take care of those photographs of mine a while back, remember? Someone took pictures and videos of me after setting me up. That man is one of the culprits responsible for it. He kept using the videos to blackmail me for money. I've paid him multiple times, but he just keeps asking for more. He even wanted me to.."

She bit down on her lip as she struggled to continue, "I couldn't stand him blackmailing me like this, and I didn't want that footage to get released as it would bring you and my uncles great shame, so I hired someone to kill him."

Herbert wasn't expecting to hear something so shocking. "Why didn't you tell me about this?" he asked with a sigh.

"You're unwell, so I didn't want to worry you. The blanc will be entirely on me if word gets out about this, so it won't affect you at all. I wouldn't have done this if I had a choice, Granddad. Please believe me!" Sylvie sobbed while leaning against his shoulder.

"There, there... You know I love you too much to blame you for this. Don't worry; I'll have someone take care of this. No one will find out that it was you." Herbert comforted her while patting her on the head.

"Thank you, Granddad," Sylvie said with a sniffle.

Herbert was still sitting in the living room long after Sylvic had gone to bed upstairs.

After what seemed like forever, he let out a sigh and asked his driver, "Juliana had always been adorable and gentle like her mother, so why did her daughter turn out to be such a vicious and cold-hearted person?"

"Maybe Ms. Sylvie took after her father instead. This isn't entirely her fault, though. Those people were pushing it way too far," replicd the driver.

While I don't condone Sylvie's use of such underhanded methods, she is all that my daughter has left behind in this world, so I can't just sit by and watch her get hurt.

Herbert could only let out a sigh at the thought of that.