Ch. 1771..1780

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 1771

The entire meeting room resembled a black and white oil painting. The snow-white walls contrasted against the black suits crowding within it and the grey tiles laid on the floor. The angular shape of the meeting table accentuated the company’s clinical style.

Larry pulled up a chair and sat steadily in his seat. Everyone else around him opened the folders in their hands with pens, ready to get down to work.

“I believe all of you have seen the latest news about Norton Corporation. The Alpire Group has again mounted attacks against our company right under our noses. Together with the earlier incidents, our accumulated losses have grown to a massive amount.”

Larry cleared his throat. “I have previously declared not to let history repeat itself. Hence, in the face of what happened today, I would like to apologize to everyone.”

“Wait, Mr. Norton.” A white-haired shareholder sitting beside Larry suddenly asked, “Even if we didn’t manage to stop their attacks, don’t you owe us an explanation about how much you know about Alpire Group?”

Not shirking from his responsibilities, Larry was forthcoming. “Indeed, I have not met the chairman of Alpire Group before. But based on my knowledge, their objective is to take over Norton Corporation. However, I have met with their head of finance. Although he wasn’t willing to divulge the secrets behind the takeover, he did tell me that Alpire Group intends to acquire Norton Corporation in its entirety. Also, this man is our only source for more information.”

“In that case, why don’t you bring him over so that we can all talk to him?” the old shareholder pressed on.

Larry could only brace himself and continue, “When I found out about what happened this morning, he was the first person I thought of. Of course, I tried calling him but he didn’t answer and his whereabouts are currently unknown.”

The old shareholder sneered. His laugh was filled with mockery toward Larry. “Since you don’t know where he is, why did you even mention him? Are you trying to shirk your responsibility and hide the truth from us?”

Another middle-aged shareholder added, “That’s right. Now that you’re unable to contact your source, how do we know you’re telling the truth or if he exists?”

Instead of focusing on the crux of the matter which was Alpire Group’s intention of taking over Norton Corporation, they kept harping on the veracity of Larry’s contact. Larry was dumbfounded by their reaction. Given what had happened, he had lost all credibility before the shareholders.

Larry straightened his posture in an attempt to seem more authoritative. “As Norton Corporation’s shareholders, you should focus on the problem at hand and not doubt the truth of my words. There’s no reason for me to fabricate a person just to deceive you.”

Pressured by Larry’s commanding presence, the meeting room fell silent.

“With regards to this unexpected incident, it was indeed caused by my oversight. From now on, I will try my best…”

“Mr. Norton!” suddenly, the old shareholder interrupted Larry again.

“We can’t allow the company to continue the way it is. All the shareholders here have invested their life savings into it. Hence, shouldn’t you be giving us a deadline?” the old shareholder threatened with a dissatisfied gaze.

His brazen words suddenly caused tension to fill the room. If Larry failed to solve the problem by the stipulated deadline, he would then be removed from his position.

“That’s right. If you can’t do it, let someone else take over.”

One by one, the shareholders had insidious looks on their faces. Letting out their devilish grins, they were all showing their true colors.

Larry cleared his throat to signal everyone in the meeting room to quiet down. “Alright. Give me three months. After three months, I will provide all of you a satisfactory answer.”

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 1772

“What if you don’t?” the old shareholder pressed on.

Larry sneered.

I’m afraid this bunch of wily old foxes don’t really care about the company’s future.

“If I’m unable to produce the expected result, I will resign,” Larry declared confidently. He had rediscovered the bold confidence that he used to have.

Within the meeting room, the attendees exchanged glances with each other. Some of them looked shocked while others were gloating in glee.

“Alright, now that you have vowed to do so, we will then judge the matter three months later,” the old shareholder declared loudly to a few others behind him as he closed the document on the desk.

Three months was hardly enough time to deal with such a complex matter, but Larry couldn’t delay it any further. He needed to take action at once to prevent the matter from escalating.

“How was it? Did they make things difficult for you?” Joan squeezed his hand.

“Everything is fine, don’t worry. They are not that ruthless as now is not the time to remove me.” Larry stroked Joan’s hair lightly.

Luckily, it turned our alright.

When Larry walked into the meeting room alone, her heart was pounding furiously, worried that something would happen to him. She knew that none of the shareholders were to be trifled with. Now that something as big as this had happened, they would not let Larry off easily.

Ring! Ring!

Her handphone suddenly rang.

When she checked to see who it was, she saw that it was Caspian. She hesitated for a moment but finally decided to answer.

“Joan, are you free today? I would like to treat you to a meal. It will only be the two of us.” Caspian was forthright in his question.

Suddenly, Joan’s eyes were filled with wariness. Caspian seldom asked anyone out for a meal, especially one where there would only be the two of them. It has to be about Nancy. Or else, I cannot think of any other reason for him to do so.

“Alright, send me the address. I’ll go over…” As she looked at Larry who was standing in front of her, her stance began to waver.

“Caspian asked me out for a meal. I suppose he wants to talk about Nancy.” Joan’s eyes were suddenly filled with sadness.

Given how much Caspian had helped her and Larry, there was no way she could lie to him. However, she had promised to let Nancy explain to Caspian herself. Hence, until that happened, she wasn’t allowed to tell him anything.

“Go ahead. You will have to think on your feet as you have made a promise to Nancy. Remember not to panic as it’s best to let them resolve the matter themselves.”

At the restaurant.

“Joan, over here!” Caspian waved at Joan when she entered the restaurant.

Quickly collecting herself, Joan walked toward Caspian with an awkward smile.

“Joan, please order whatever you like.” Caspian passed her the menu enthusiastically.

However, Joan could only stare at the menu he handed her as she didn’t dare make eye contact. After all, his gaze was filled with the trust he had for her and the devotion he had for Nancy.

“I’ll just have a coffee as I already had something with Larry earlier. Caspian, you seem pretty rich recently. After buying me a meal not too long ago, you invited me for another treat today…” Joan remarked on purpose as her hands were clasped together tightly as if she was trying to get rid of the anxiety she felt.

“Joan, actually, there’s something I want to ask you today.” Caspian scratched the back of his head awkwardly.

Joan took a deep breath and stared right at him. She prepared herself for what was about to come. After all, there was no avoiding it.

“Joan, do you know about Jory?” Once the question escaped his mouth, Caspian’s eyes darkened.

Joan could sense that he was trying his best to suppress the emotions within him.

“Jory?” Joan murmured on purpose.

“That’s right. Jory. The one who has just returned to the country recently…” Caspian’s words seemed to be all over the place as he couldn’t wait to express what he wanted to say.

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The reason he was so anxious was that he wanted to verify the truth about Nancy and Jory’s relationship.

Joan was puzzled as to how Caspian knew about Jory.

“I don’t know him well. What about him, Caspian? What do you want with him?” Joan looked carefully at him.

At that moment, Caspian had a dejected look on his face while his eyes lost their shine.

“Nothing much. It’s just that I heard Nancy rejected his marriage proposal before. But now that he has returned, I figure…”

Joan had never seen him so disheartened before. He truly loves Nancy to the extent he would give his all to her.

But if the love is not reciprocated, how could they even sustain their relationship?

Perhaps, Nancy is right. If one has to constantly compromise in a relationship, he will be doomed to a miserable fate. Instead of having both parties suffer, it would be better for them to let go and seek out their own happiness.

But Caspian…

He has sacrificed so much…

“Caspian, don’t let your imagination run wild. You have to trust each other. In matters of love, only the ones involved can decide. No matter what happens between you and Nancy, I’m sure you will have a good talk with her, am I right?” Joan looked at him with a serious expression.

Although Caspian was someone stubborn, Joan was sure that he would not do anything rash when it came to Nancy.

“Sure, Joan. I understand,” Caspian promised.

However, he didn’t manage to read between the lines of what Joan had said.

Staring out of the window, Joan’s eyes were filled with pity.

She wasn’t sure if what she did was right. But, she hoped that Nancy would tell Caspian the truth.

Nevertheless, Joan knew Nancy well and was aware that there was no stopping her from whatever she wanted to do.

Ring! Ring!

“Hello, alright, I know. I’ll go over at once. Wait for my return,” Jory said into the phone as he looked out the window.

“What’s wrong?” Nancy looked at him quizzically.

“Nancy, there’s an urgent matter that needs my attention back at the office. I will have to go back there.” Jory stroked her hair.

Despite frowning slightly, Nancy turned the car around and drove toward Alpire Group. Along the way, she tried to find out more about the person they were going to see but her questions were brushed aside by Jory.

Given that he couldn’t get in touch with Dustin, Jory knew that he couldn’t act hastily. Before Dustin was found, he had to quietly watch the matter unfold.

Dustin’s sudden disappearance caused Larry and Joan to worry. After all, he was the key to solving their problem.

“I’m sorry, the number you have dialled is unreachable. Please try again later.”

Rubbing her hands, Joan paced around anxiously.

“Larry, what are we going to do? There’s no way we can get in touch with Dustin if he doesn’t pick up.” Joan grabbed onto his arm as if she could channel him some positive energy.

Larry lifted his gaze and looked out of the window, his eyes flashed with sudden darkness.

“It’s alright. I’m sure we can find another way. Don’t worry, with me around…” Larry gently patted Joan on her back.

She knew that Larry was just comforting her. Why is Dustin doing this? Can it be that he wants to push Larry to the brink?

“I’m going to see him.” Just as she spoke, Joan stood up and prepared to leave.

“Joan, where are you going to find him? He isn’t at home. I have already checked.” Larry’s expression darkened.

At that point, no one knew where Dustin was, and no one could get in touch with him. Regardless of whether he did it on purpose, it was something that was devastating for Larry.

He was caught off guard by Dustin’s disappearance and the pressure from the company shareholders. Everyone was waiting to see him fall and couldn’t wait to gloat over his failure.

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Jory!

That’s right, I need to find Nancy!

At that moment, as if she suddenly had an idea, she quickly rushed out after bidding Larry goodbye. As she couldn’t let Larry find out about Jory and Nancy, she naturally couldn’t bring up his name.

“Nancy, there’s something I need to speak to you about,” Joan said anxiously.

“Coincidentally, I have something to tell you too…”

Both of them met up at a café.

“Nancy, I’m sure you have seen the news about Alpire Group’s takeover of Larry’s subsidiary. Therefore, I need your help to talk to Jory about…” Joan pleaded.

Other than Nancy, she didn’t know anybody else who knew Jory.

Going through Nancy was the most direct route she could take.

“Joan, don’t worry. I’m here to explain what’s going on. Jory doesn’t know anything about the takeover. It’s true. I just asked…” Looking intently at Joan, Nancy gradually explained.

She didn’t know whether Joan would believe her, but she believed in Jory. If he denied it, then it meant that he wasn’t responsible.

Joan was puzzled.

If not Jory, who else could it be?

Doesn’t Alpire Group belong to Jory?

“No, are you telling me that Jory doesn’t know about the takeover? How is that possible?” Joan looked at Nancy in disbelief.

She didn’t believe Jory knew nothing but neither did she believe Nancy was lying to her.

“Joan, listen to me. Jory is also investigating the matter as he only got to know about it after watching the news. So, don’t worry.” Nancy reassured Joan.

Don’t worry? How can I not worry? Given that Larry is skating on thin ice right now, how can I remain calm?

Joan’s eyes were filled with anxiety.

Perhaps, the world really is unpredictable. Just like Nancy denying the takeover was Jory’s idea.

Can it really be Dustin?

Joan glanced at her phone. Despite having called him more than twenty times, no one answered.

“Joan! Joan!” Nancy gently tapped Joan on her shoulder.

“Huh?” She quickly regained her senses.

“Joan, this matter requires further investigation. I believe in Jory. Since he has declared it wasn’t his doing, then it must be so. Hence…” Nancy held back what she was about to say.

When she saw how convinced Nancy was, the intensity in Joan’s eyes eased.

No matter how ruthless Jory was, he wouldn’t lie to the woman he loved.

“In time, the truth will be revealed. So, don’t worry. It’s just that, we are running out of time.” Joan gradually calmed herself down.

That’s right, I should trust Nancy.

“By the way, Nancy, did you manage to talk to Caspian? I met him just before this and he already knows about Jory. Before you tell him the truth, you had better be mindful of that.” Joan gave Nancy a concerned look.

The sparkle in Nancy’s eye reflected the dilemma she was in. She really didn’t know how to broach the topic with him. She was aware of how much Caspian sacrificed for her and had changed a lot for her sake. But, matters of love can never be forced.

A loveless marriage would only end in disaster.

This was a universal truth.

“I have not told him about it yet as I don’t even know how to explain it to him. Joan, I’m sure you’re aware of how obstinate Caspian is. I’m afraid once I tell him, he will blame Jory and…” Nancy’s expression became awkward.

“But, Nancy, one day, Caspian will definitely find out about both of you.” Joan was worried.

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The longer Nancy allowed the matter to drag on, the higher the chances of it blowing up, not to mention that Caspian was already aware of Jory’s presence. Besides, everyone knew about Nancy’s temperament. There was no way she could resist seeing Jory. If Caspian found out, she would not be able to get away with just an explanation anymore.

“Joan, why don’t you help me persuade Caspian…”

“Come over for dinner today,” Simon ordered authoritatively.

“Dad, what are you doing? I still have an appointment…” Nancy was holding Jory’s picture and staring at it with a smile.

“No, you must come home!” With that, Simon ended the call.

Appointment? She must definitely be going to see Jory. The thought of Jory alone caused Simon’s blood to boil. He wondered what had gotten into Nancy to no longer love Caspian who was so devoted to her. Instead, she just had to choose someone like Jory.

In a blink of an eye, Simon looked a lot older.

“Hello, Caspian? Are you free tonight? If you are, why don’t you come over for dinner?” Simon spoke genially over the phone.

Ever since he found out about Nancy’s change of heart in favor of Jory, Simon felt sorry for Caspian. Despite men’s inherent instinct to compete with one another, they were in the best position to understand one another. As a man, Simon could imagine what would go through Caspian’s mind the moment he found out about Nancy’s relationship with Jory.

As tonight’s dinner might be the last one shared by the three of them, Simon’s eyes were filled with sadness.

Although Caspian wasn’t smart and didn’t know how to be romantic, it was undeniable that he was someone who loved his wife to bits. It was just that fate was unkind to him.

“Oh Dad, what are you up to? Why must you insist I come home for dinner? Can’t we have it any other night? Why does it have to be tonight?” Nancy grumbled the moment she entered the dining room.

“Nancy, I’m here.” Before she could finish, she heard Caspian greeting her enthusiastically.

Why is he here? Nancy glanced at Simon suspiciously.

“Y-You… Why are you here?” Nancy stuttered.

“I asked him to come as it has been a long time since we shared a meal together. It’s so rare for us to gather.” Just as he spoke, Simon stood up and headed to the dining table.

“Come, Caspian, all your favorite dishes are being served tonight. I got the kitchen to prepare them especially for you. Why don’t you give them a try?” Simon gently patted Caspian on his shoulder.

At that moment, Caspian felt shy given how warm Simon was treating him.

Given how simple Caspian was, he really assumed that Simon invited him over solely because he wanted the three of them to dine together. However, he found out much later that he had been kept in the dark by everyone.

“Here, Nancy, this is your favorite.” Caspian served Nancy a piece of meat.

When she saw the meat on her plate, Nancy couldn’t help but frown.

Given that she had grown used to being intimate with Jory, she now resented everything Caspian had touched.

“Nancy, why are you spacing out? Your husband has served you your favorite food. Go ahead and eat it,” Simon reminded her.

“Oh, okay.” To prevent Caspian from suspecting anything, Nancy forced herself to swallow the piece of meat.

“Caspian, ever since you and Nancy got married, I seldom have the opportunity to dine with both of you. Tonight, we definitely must drink to celebrate.” Just as he spoke, Simon raised his wine glass.

When he saw how hospitable his father-in-law was, Caspian naturally didn’t shy away.

Throughout the night, Simon and Caspian drank together. Both of them spoke and laughed so raucously that Nancy couldn’t tell if they were really drunk or still sober.

“Dad, it’s time we take our leave. Caspian has drunk a lot. I’m afraid he won’t even be able to make his way home if he drinks anymore,” Nancy grumbled softly.

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However…

“Caspian, Caspian, slow down.” Nancy helped him into the bedroom.

Given that he was truly drunk, Caspian closed his eyes and started to snore the moment he slumped on the bed. All this while, Caspian would try his best to suppress his snoring as he was worried he would disturb Nancy. But that night, he was likely too exhausted.

When she watched him lying on his bed, Nancy felt reluctant to leave him.

She recognized that Caspian was a wonderful man. However, she just couldn’t bring herself to love him.

“Caspian, I’m sorry that you’re not the one I love. Thank you for your patience and understanding. It’s just that we aren’t suited to be husband and wife…” At that moment, Nancy looked exceptionally serious.

With his eyes closed, she wasn’t sure if Caspian could hear her or not, but she definitely couldn’t bring herself to say something so cruel to him when he was awake.

“Caspian, did you hear what I say? Caspian…” Nancy shook his body gently.

With a turn of his body, Caspian had his back facing Nancy. Smacking his lips, he seemed to already be in deep sleep.

Suddenly, Nancy’s gaze darkened. Perhaps, now is not the right time. She got up and left the room.

Unbeknownst to her, Caspian was lying in his bed with tears streaming out of his eyes.

What is love? Love is me waiting for you to return no matter what you have done wrong. I will be there until the moment you no longer want to return.

Ring! Ring!

“Hello, Caspian?” Joan answered.

“Joan, I need your help.” Caspian got straight to the point.

Help?

Joan looked at Larry quizzically as if he knew something. But, Larry shook his head instead.

“I want to give Nancy a surprise. Tomorrow is our third anniversary, so…” Caspian hesitated bashfully.

Although Caspian didn’t finish his sentence, Joan already knew what he was thinking about. Hence, she agreed to help him.

In truth, Caspian had noticed that Nancy had been avoiding him regardless of whether she was conscious about it or not.

“Caspian wants to give Nancy a surprise. So, he needs us to help him make some arrangements,” Joan explained to Larry softly.

With regards to Caspian’s request, both of them were more than delighted to help. If the surprise could salvage their marriage, it was definitely worth a try. No one wanted to see Nancy and Caspian head down the path of divorce.

“Nancy, are you free tomorrow? I would like to see you about something.” Joan gave Nancy a call at once.

“Joan, if it’s for tomorrow, why are you calling me today?” Nancy took a sip of coffee.

“I’m giving you advance notice given how busy you are,” Joan replied on purpose.

She was aware that Nancy would definitely be spending time with Jory.

“Tomorrow, Joan wants to meet me about something. So, I won’t be able to see you.” Nancy held onto Jory’s hand with a reluctant expression.

“It’s alright. Go ahead with whatever you need to do.” Jory pinched her cheeks.

The next moment, Nancy blushed bashfully.

That was what a woman in love looked like.

Love was like a poison—it could cause one to lose their senses and also break all their principles. No one expected Nancy to fall for a man whom she rejected before.

“Nancy, are you free tomorrow?” Caspian gave Nancy a servile look.

It had been a long time since he saw her smile. Every time she came home, she would greet him and head to her room, looking exhausted.

“Mmm-hmm. I’m meeting Joan tomorrow.” Nancy sat languidly on the sofa.

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Caspian grinned from the corner of his mouth.

Finally, it was the day of their third anniversary. When Caspian and Nancy first got together, he had already made an effort to remember every special occasion—Nancy’s birthday, their wedding anniversary, etc. Romance wasn’t something he knew well but he certainly tried to be romantic.

“Joan, what is it that you want to see me about?” Nancy looked at Joan inquisitively.

They had never chosen the beach as a venue for their meetings.

“Nancy, tell me, are you really giving up on Caspian?” Joan looked at Nancy intently.

As both of them had been through a lot in their relationship, Joan felt that it would be a pity if Nancy left Caspian out on impulse.

“Joan, I know. Perhaps it might sound like a joke to you but I really love Jory, and he, me. Between Caspian and me, the spark is somehow just missing,” Nancy answered with a serious expression.

Joan realized how adamant Nancy was and there was no way she could change Nancy’s mind.

“Nancy!” With a bouquet of roses in hand, Caspian suddenly appeared dressed in a white suit. His outfit made Nancy and him look like a wonderful match.

Caught by surprise, Nancy stood there stunned as she couldn’t remember what the occasion was.

“Nancy, perhaps this is the last time. So treasure it while you can.” Joan glanced at Nancy before looking at the approaching Caspian.

Caspian has done more than he ever could. If Nancy doesn’t change her mind, he can only blame fate for his predicament.

Amidst the gentle sea breeze and the warmth from the sun, seagulls were flying far by the horizon while soothing music played in the background. Caspian walked up to Nancy with the roses in his hand. Despite not being one for words, he was someone that was passionate. His feelings for her were obvious from the longing look in his eyes.

“Nancy, do you still remember? Today is our third anniversary together. All this while, I never knew how to make a girl happy. But, from the day I knew you, I have learned how to remember every special occasion.” Caspian began explaining in a passionate tone.

Meanwhile, Larry was shocked to see Caspian’s current expression. He had never seen this emotional side of Caspian before.

It was obvious how deep his love was for Nancy.

Suddenly, Larry’s eyes darkened when he remembered that Nancy wanted a divorce with Caspian.

“This is a gift for you.” Caspian handed her a box.

After glancing at the people around her, Nancy opened the box. Inside, there was a necklace with both her and Caspian’s names engraved on it. However, she could only respond with a forced smile.

“Caspian, why did you go through all this trouble? I’m not a little girl anymore,” Nancy replied awkwardly.

There was no way she could reject Caspian’s gift in front of so many people.

After glancing at Joan and then back at Caspian, Nancy collected herself.

“Let’s go grab a bite. Caspian, given how much effort you put into this, I’m sure you must have prepared some food.” Nancy changed the topic on purpose.

She really doesn’t appreciate it. Joan couldn’t help but shake her head.

Perhaps, their relationship has passed the point of no return. Divorce is just a matter of time.

Prior to that, Joan had hoped that Nancy would be moved into changing her mind about Caspian. But right then, it was obvious that all her hopes were dashed.

“Alright, alright, Nancy is famished, so let’s go eat!” Briefly stunned, Caspian quickly regained his senses.

Larry looked at Joan helplessly while she had a conflicted expression on her face.

As Caspian wasn’t someone meticulous, he didn’t notice the expression on Nancy’s face. If not for him having overheard Nancy telling him that there was no love between them while he was drunk, he wouldn’t have enlisted Larry and Joan’s help.

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Suddenly, Joan’s phone rang. When she saw that it was Dustin calling, she was shocked.

Over the last few days, she had lost count of the number of times she tried to call him. Right then, he was finally calling her back.

“Hello? Joan, did you call me?” Dustin’s voice sounded languid.

“That’s right, I called you many times but you didn’t answer. Where are you now?” Joan asked anxiously.

Now that they finally got in touch with Dustin, it was indeed a great news to both Larry and Joan. He definitely knows something about Alpire Group’s takeover of Norton Corporation.

“I’m overseas. Why? I’ve been feeling exhausted for a while now, so I decided to leave the country.”

Overseas? Why would he suddenly go overseas? Joan looked at Larry in disbelief.

“When are you coming back? I need to talk to you.” Joan waited in anticipation for Dustin’s answer.

“Sure, I’ll be back tomorrow.” After making a little small talk, both of them ended the call.

From Dustin’s tone, Joan could sense that he had no idea what was going on. However, he is very close to Jory and is deeply involved in Alpire Group.

If it’s not Dustin nor Jory, who else can it be? Joan couldn’t think of anyone else.

“Don’t worry. The truth will be revealed once he is back. As long as I’m here, the company will be fine.” Larry helped Joan massaged her temple.

Suddenly, he felt guilty as she had to share his burden of worrying about the company.

“Why do you say that, Larry? Your troubles are also mine. Didn’t we say so before? No matter what happens, we will face them together.”

Without any hesitation, Dustin booked a ticket and flew back into the country.

Jory had already gotten in touch with Dustin earlier. When he found out that Dustin had nothing to do with the takeover, he didn’t say anything further.

“Dustin, I’m sure you have heard about Alpire Group’s takeover of Norton Corporation’s subsidiary over the last few days.” Joan looked at him intently.

“Norton Corporation? Subsidiary? Joan, if you want to speak to me about the company, I think Larry would be in a better position to do so.” Dustin took a sip of coffee.

The thing he hated the most was her speaking out for another man, even if she did so willingly. Unfortunately, the harsh reality was that Joan only loved Larry.

“Dustin, stop messing around. Tell me, do you have anything to do with this?” Joan looked at him warily as she pleaded.

With her eyes filled with sadness, it was obvious to Dustin how much pain she was in. However, he just refused to accept the fact that Larry was the one she loved.

“Joan, would you believe me if I told you that I had nothing to do with the takeover?” Dustin looked at Joan with anticipation.

He wanted to know if she trusted him.

Joan hesitated at his question.

Who else could it be? I mean, who else has the authority to instruct Alpire Group to execute the takeover?

“Dustin, tell me the truth. Does this really have nothing to do with you?” Joan asked again.

Dustin snorted as he knew Larry’s wellbeing was all that Joan cared about at that moment.

In truth, he wasn’t the one behind the takeover but the end result was something that he had wished for. Somehow, someone knew of his intentions and brought forward the takeover plan.

However, he could sense all the sadness and pain she was going through.

Jory is right. Her happiness is what makes me happy, while her sadness naturally affects me too. By then, his emotions were no longer within his control. Instead, they were simply being dictated by her.

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Sometimes, Dustin didn’t even understand why he loved her so much. Is it because she is beautiful? Has a good figure? Or knows a lot?

No, none of the above. Love can never be explained.

It was just a comforting feeling where one could immerse oneself in. However, this same feeling was causing Dustin pain.

“Alright, Joan, I’ll be frank with you. I am not the one behind the takeover. With regards to who is responsible, we are still investigating.” A stern expression suddenly emerged on Dustin’s face.

Despite how much he resented Larry, he wouldn’t stoop so low as to utterly ruin him. Furthermore, he was aware of what sort of fate would befall Larry if Norton Corporation was taken over. By then, Larry wouldn’t be the only one devastated, Joan would definitely feel the same, which wasn’t something he wanted.

“If it wasn’t you…” Joan mumbled. Who else could it be?

Life was indeed complicated. Even such a trivial issue could cause so many other problems, not to mention all the other issues or people Joan wasn’t aware of.

“Larry, I met Dustin today and he denied that he was behind the takeover.” Joan held Larry’s hand tightly as if to comfort him.

As Larry looked out the window at the pitch-black sky, his expression darkened.

He knew that there were tons of people waiting to harm him, such as the company shareholders, commercial competitors, and even members of prominent families that just didn’t like him. All of them saw him as a thorn in their fleshes.

“Alright, let’s not think about it anymore. Everything will be fine. I’ll take care of it.” As Larry hugged Joan tightly, the strength from his arms provided her with a sense of security.

Faced with threats on all sides, Larry had no choice but to pick up his former boldness and make a comeback within the corporate world.

With his eyes filled with resolve, Larry recovered the determined expression he used to have.

“Larry, do you think the company will…” Joan stopped halfway.

“No, it won’t. Don’t worry. As long as I’m still around, I will not let the company come to any harm,” Larry comforted her as he gently patted her on the shoulder.

“But, we don’t even know who was behind the takeover. How are we even going to turn this around?” Joan looked at him quizzically.

The one who took over Norton Corporation’s subsidiary…

Since it was neither Jory nor Dustin…

A cold glint flashed within Larry’s eyes.

Perhaps, that person will show himself soon.

Ring! Ring! Larry saw that it was Caspian that was calling.

“Larry, I just heard about what happened to the company. I fell behind because I was busy with Nancy over the last few days. So, tell me what your plans are?” Caspian remarked with resolve.

Larry was glad that he had a friend like Caspian—someone who was willing to jump through fire for his sake.

“Larry, what do you need done?” Caspian got straight to the point.

He was someone forthright and didn’t like beating around the bush. The first time Alpire Group acquired a Norton Corporation subsidiary, Larry had Caspian observe from the sidelines. But right then, given how the situation had deteriorated, Larry had no choice but to put Caspian to work. Or else, he would be forced to resign by the shareholders.

“Caspian, don’t be hasty. The issue isn’t as simple as we think. We can’t wrongly accuse an innocent, but neither can we let the guilty escape,” Larry plainly replied.

Don’t be hasty? Under such dire circumstances, do we even have the luxury to take things slow? Caspian felt extremely anxious.

“Larry, isn’t it obvious? Alpire Group is the culprit. They are the ones who initiated the takeover. What is there left to deliberate about?” Caspian retorted impatiently.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 1780

He had long resented Alpire Group because of their earlier attempt at taking over Norton Corporation and after he heard about Jory’s return.

After calming Caspian down, Larry turned on his computer and looked through some data and documents about the company.

Ding! Larry took a quick glance and saw that it was a message notification.

It was a text message from Gabriella: Mr. Norton, are you free for a cup of coffee tomorrow?

Larry was puzzled as to why Gabriella would want to invite him for coffee during such a time. Sensing that she was definitely up to no good, he rejected her right away.

Given that he already had Joan, Larry subconsciously kept his distance from Gabriella.

Gabriella was enraged by his rejection, causing her hatred toward him to intensify.

“Hmph, it seems you have been very busy.” Gabriella barged into Jory’s office.

Jory wasn’t surprised by Gabriella’s sudden appearance at all. He had accepted their partnership and had seen her for who she truly was.

“What are you doing here?” Jory asked coldly without even looking up.

Gabriella swaggered her way up to Jory. “I’m here to see my partner. Am I not allowed to do so?”

Partner? Jory sneered.

Can it be that she is behind the recent acquisition of Norton Corporation’s subsidiary by Alpire Group?

It was human nature to always stir trouble until they got what they wanted. Given that Gabriella couldn’t be together with Larry, she naturally couldn’t stand to see Larry living happily together with Joan, not to mention she was kicked out because of Larry.

“If you have something to say, spit it out. Or else, leave.” Jory would never treat a person such as Gabriella with respect. If not for Nancy, he would never even consider working with her.

“Why are you in a hurry to chase me out, Mr. Synder? Aren’t we partners after all?” Gabriella winked at him while smiling deviously.

Given how sharp he was, Gabriella’s actions did not escape Jory’s notice. Prior to this, he turned a blind eye when Gabriella pushed for Alpire Group to acquire Norton Corporation’s subsidiary. After all, that was what Dustin wanted too. So, what does she want today?

“Tell me, what do you want?” Jory glared at her coldly.

“Fine. Since you’re so eager to know, I’ll not beat around the bush. By now, I’m sure you would have guessed that my objective is to have Larry to myself. The recent acquisition of Norton Corporation’s subsidiary is just a trivial matter. As for me, I will help you remove Caspian. How about that? I’m sure that you will be very happy with this deal.” Gabriella tousled her own hair.

As Nancy was everything to Jory, she firmly believed that it was a deal he couldn’t refuse.

However, Jory suddenly recalled that Nancy had told him before that Larry and Joan were her best friends and she didn’t want to see them get hurt.

“So how about it? Mr. Synder?” Gabriella gave Jory a suspicious look.

“I wonder what will happen if Caspian found out about you and Nancy. Would he go crazy…” Gabriella remarked on purpose.

Jory had no idea what Caspian was like. However, he had heard that Caspian was extremely stubborn. If Nancy was somehow hurt because of him, it would definitely not be worth the risk. Given how difficult it was for him to get back together with her, Jory would not tolerate her getting hurt at all.

However…

“So, Mr. Synder. Have you made up your mind?” Gabriella looked at him in anticipation.

Staring back at Gabriella, Jory smiled insidiously. As both of them shook on the deal, it was considered to be done.