Ch. 2751..2760

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2751

Delilah Lost Her Temper

After Joan and Delilah had exchanged a few more words, they then hung up the phone.

“Where did Mom go, Grandma? Why isn’t she home yet?” Lucius asked worriedly while seated on the sofa in the living room.

“There’s something she has to handle recently, so she has gone on a business trip.” Delilah gently patted him on the head. I wonder whether the matter has been resolved and how is Joan faring right now.

After all, she knew Joan all too well. She was aware that Joan was the kind of person who never wanted others to worry, so even if she had claimed that everything was fine, Delilah was still worried.

Click!

The door swung open, heralding Larry’s return.

“Dad!” Lucius threw himself into Larry’s arms.

Picking him up, Larry promptly turned to the side and looked at Delilah. “Is she not home yet?” he queried.

“No,” Delilah murmured as she shook her head. Then, she glanced at Lucius, who was in his arms.

Larry naturally understood her meaning, so he carried Lucius into the room before coming out. Subsequently, Delilah explained, “She wants to stay elsewhere for some time.”

“Okay.” Surprisingly, Larry didn’t object to it. Since reporters have been here, it’s only natural that she hides out elsewhere for some time. Besides, it isn’t anything positive. After being misunderstood for such a long time, her reputation will definitely be marred even if she manages to prove her innocence in the end.

“Larry, how about you lend her a hand…” Delilah suggested haltingly.

“I believe that she can handle it by herself.” As Larry said that, he strode into the adjacent bedroom.

Joan is no longer the kind and naive girl she once was. Having established a flower shop now, she has many goals to be accomplished one by one, so she needs to firm up her capabilities and mental aptitude.

When the warm sunlight hit the ground through the window the next day, Delilah simply straightened the house before heading to the flower shop.

No sooner had she unlocked the door and flipped the open sign over when a horde or people charged in.

“Is this Joan Watts’ flower shop?”

“Is Joan Watts the owner?”

“Where has Joan Watts disappeared to?”

Their scornful expressions had Delilah shuddering. What are they trying to do here?

“I’d advise you to close down this place!”

“Hear, hear! Why is she running a flower shop considering her repugnant character?”

The crowd’s voices increased in volume as their censure escalated.

“Shut up!” Finally, Delilah snapped. “If you want to buy flowers, you’re welcome to do so. Otherwise, get the f*ck out of here!”

That was the first time she had truly lost her temper.

In the next moment, everyone went silent, and the atmosphere became awkward. None of them had ever expected such an outburst from the seemingly gentle and delicate woman.

“Quick, let’s go!”

“She’s no easy prey, so let’s hightail it out of here!”

“Why is she so fierce? We weren’t castigating her…”

In no time, Delilah was the only one left in the flower shop.

Hah! How ridiculous! She then closed the door, still very much worked up.

Meanwhile, all that was witnessed by Joan in a corner a stone’s throw away from the entrance of the flower shop. She wore a mask and kept her head lowered. Unbidden, she then heaved a sigh. It looks like they’re not planning to let me go! What kind of deep-seated grudge does the person behind this harbor against me that necessitates such ruthless means?

“Joan!”

“Ahh!” Joan jumped at the voice that rang out from behind her.

“It’s me! It’s me, so don’t be afraid!” Nancy slipped off her sunglasses at once.

“Nancy? Why are you here?” Surprised, Joan looked at her dubiously.

“I’m here to look in on you.” Nancy flashed her a smile. Immediately after, she blurted, “Have you found that woman?”

“Yeah, but she took off,” Joan answered helplessly.

Damn it all to hell! Who on earth is doing such a despicable thing? Nancy clenched her hands tightly, her gaze as sharp as a hawk’s.

“Come, let’s find a place and figure out a solution to this problem.” As she said that, she dragged Joan along.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2752

Lucinda Has Gone Abroad

“Wait… Nancy, we can’t head that way! There are reporters there!” At present, Joan had to remain vigilant to people tailing her and reporters furtively snapping photos of her.

In the end, the two of them went to Nancy’s house.

After all, Jory’s house was relatively safe. As he was one of the overbearing presidents in the city, reporters naturally didn’t dare incite his wrath.

“Alright, alright, don’t worry anymore,” Nancy consoled as she removed her jacket.

Sitting on the sofa, Joan inhaled deeply. Then, she took a sip of tea as she tried to suppress the brewing emotions within her.

“What’s your plan, Joan?”

“What plan can I have? I’ll just take things one day at a time.” I’ve got to get to the bottom of this matter first! My identity is no longer the same now, so I must redeem my reputation!

“What’s wrong?” Jory inquired softly when he saw them in the house.

“Nothing,” Nancy replied impatiently, waving a dismissive hand at him.

“Are you worried because of those rumors in the newspapers?” Jory continued asking in concern.

At that, Joan’s head instantly snapped up. She stared at the man in front of her seriously, surprised that he was actually keeping abreast of her news. Well, well… It seems that this matter is truly spreading like wildfire. Am I now notorious in this city, then?

“I’ve seen that woman,” Jory remarked. His voice was calm, but his words had both women descending into a frenzy.

In an instant, Nancy turned serious. Clutching his arm tightly, she frantically cried out, “Well? Spit it out! Where did you see her, and where is she now?”

“Calm down, Nancy. I just came back yesterday, and I bumped into her at the airport.”

Oh God, it turns out that the woman has gone abroad! At that very moment, Joan’s eyes flooded with misery. She didn’t know what to do next, and the thought of giving up flashed across her mind.

“Joan!” All of a sudden, Nancy clapped her on the shoulder hard. “Don’t worry, for we’ll definitely sniff her out no matter where she goes!”

But… Joan wavered. Going to such lengths seems rather unnecessary.

“You can’t give up, Joan!” Nancy exclaimed urgently.

“Nancy, she has already gone abroad, so why don’t we just let it go…” Joan commented hesitantly.

“No way!”

While Nancy’s determined stance was beyond Joan’s expectations, she could understand her sentiments. Nancy was an incredibly loyal friend, so she always stood up for her in the past whenever someone picked on her.

“What are you planning to do, then?” Joan asked skeptically as she blinked at her.

“Find her!” Nancy’s gaze was as resolute as ever.

But just how exactly are we going to do that? Desolation was written all over Joan’s face. If Lucinda Xenos were still in the country, I’ll definitely track her down and question her no matter what. But she’s now abroad, so it’s exceedingly difficult to locate her, not to mention setting things straight!

“Don’t worry, Joan. I’ve got nothing to do anyway, so I’ll handle this matter!” Nancy patted her shoulder lightly as she spoke in a menacing tone. I’ll definitely find you, Lucinda Xenos! You’ll die a horrible death for having done such a vile thing to my best friend!

As a ruthless aura radiated off Nancy, her hands clenched into fists.

At the sight of her staunch expression, Joan zipped her mouth. Ah, never mind. I’ll just let her do as she pleases. It’s best if she can find her, but if otherwise, it doesn’t really matter anyway.

Subsequently, they chatted for a while before Joan left. Nancy, on the other hand, started planning her move.

After leaving Jory’s villa, Joan didn’t return home or head back to the flower shop. Instead, she went straight back to her rented place. To her surprise, Dustin was waiting for her in front of her door.

“Dustin? Why are you here?” She eyed the man in front of her suspiciously.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2753

Confronting Abelyn

“I’m here to look in on you.” Dustin brandished the bag in his hand at Joan. He was worried that Joan would go hungry, so he went to the supermarket and bought her a lot of things.

“You didn’t have to buy me so many things. I can take care of myself,” Joan murmured as she bustled about.

“Don’t worry about it. I had nothing to do, so I went shopping,” Dustin replied awkwardly, chuckling. He knew that she merely didn’t want to accept any favors from him for no reason.

“When are you going back?” he then asked out of the blue.

That was a question that demanded extensive deliberation. Upon hearing that, Joan tilted her head, and a trace of indecision manifested in her eyes. I have no idea when I’ll go back either. The thing is, I don’t know when this scandal will fizzle out.

“We’ll see how it goes.”

“Why don’t you ask Larry to help you?” Dustin couldn’t quite understand that since it would be a piece of cake for Larry to resolve this issue considering his influence.

“I want to try my hand at it first. If I truly can’t settle it, I’ll then go and seek his help,” Joan answered mildly.

Well, that’s… quite a unique approach. They share such an intimate relationship, yet they actually have such a practice, huh? Casting a glance at her, Dustin then lowered his eyes. So, she has never considered asking for my help.

“What is it? Is something else the matter that you sought me out today?” Joan lifted her head, her expression a tad grave.

Indeed, Dustin had another motive in seeking her out, but he hesitated as he contemplated whether he should tell her the truth.

“Well? Just say it. What’s with the hesitation?” Mirth tickled Joan when she noticed his hesitance despite already being here.

“Um… I had a fight with Abelyn.”

That simple utterance had Joan splurting out the water in her mouth. What? Did he just say that he fought with Abelyn? Is he serious? She studied the man before her skeptically. Isn’t he usually very indulgent toward her? Why did they suddenly fight today?

“Why?” she asked seriously after wiping her mouth.

“Because she has fallen hopelessly in love with a man.”

“That’s good news!”

“The thing is, the man is a bartender in a nightclub, and he usually fools around with tons of other women.”

All at once, understanding dawned upon Joan that Dustin was worried about Abelyn being duped.

Nonetheless, she found it strange that Abelyn would fall for a bartender in a nightclub since her type was typically considerate and attentive men.

“Then? What’s the situation now?”

“She wants to move out and live with that bartender instead!” Dustin’s voice dripped with fury.

Good heavens! That fast? Has Abelyn lost her mind? She has just gotten acquainted with the man for a few days, yet she’s already planning to move in with him? No, I must go and dissuade her from doing so!

“Come, let’s go to Abelyn’s house! I want to ask her what exactly she’s thinking!” Sounding frantic, Joan dragged Dustin out of the house as she spoke.

What else could she be thinking? She’s simply going with her feelings and living according to her ideals.

Dustin shook his head before sighing.

In no time, the two of them arrived at Abelyn’s villa.

Knock, knock, knock!

At that moment, Abelyn was sprawled on the sofa in the living room, having a video call with her boyfriend. It was a long time before she finally put her cell phone down and trotted out, probably upon hearing the increasingly urgent banging on the door.

“Who’s there?”

“It’s me!” Joan answered sharply.

Hmm? Joan? Why is she here at this hour? Abelyn’s brows knitted together deeply, and irritation showed on her face. “Why are you here…”

“Abelyn Chipman! What’s wrong with you?” Joan strode into the house and bellowed without waiting for her to finish speaking. Her tone was extremely hostile.

Noticing the outrage on her face, a faint sense of unease flooded Abelyn. What’s wrong with her that she’s so emotional?

“What’s wrong with you, Joan?” she inquired cautiously.

“What’s wrong with me? Abelyn, that’s exactly my question to you!”

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2754

Abelyn Slapped Joan

That remark had Abelyn growing anxious. Despite her usual feisty and fearless attitude, the thing she feared most was people getting into her face.

“Well? What exactly happened?” Joan stared at her intently.

Huh? What does she mean? What is she going on about? Baffled, Abelyn wore an expression of puzzlement in hopes that she would give her a hint.

“I’m referring to you and that bartender!” Joan prompted in exasperation.

Oh, is that all? Phew! I thought it was something earth-shattering! Straightening at once, Abelyn cleared her throat before she started narrating the entire story.

“Joan, I got myself a boyfriend a few days ago. He’s a bartender…”

“Okay, okay, that’s enough prefacing. Go to the point! I know all that.” Impatience swamped Joan.

“Oh, right. That bartender is incredibly handsome, and he has a great personality. Besides, he’s gentle and romantic. He’s also very skilled at mixing drinks…”

Abelyn introduced her boyfriend in a besotted manner, her eyes shining with infatuation as though she was immersed in a beautiful memory.

Good God, she’s well and truly under the spell of that bartender! Joan glowered at her while listening to her delusions of a sweet love story. Jeez, she’s really bewitched!

Turning to the side, she looked at Dustin and shrugged helplessly.

Throughout it all, Abelyn continued rambling on and on without ever noticing the displeasure on the faces of the two people at the side. Finally, Joan couldn’t take it anymore.

“Abelyn!” She deliberately raised her voice a few decibels.

“What is it now?” Abelyn wore a confused expression.

“I think you should really consider this matter carefully,” Joan asserted seriously.

“What’s there to consider? I like him, and he likes me as well,” Abelyn countered in a firm voice despite feeling perplexed. Love is something between two people, so it’s fine as long as both parties are consenting, no?

Really? Does that bartender really like her? That might not necessarily be the case.

Approaching her slowly, Joan stared at her solemnly with a trace of suspicion in her eyes.

“Don’t be stupid, Abelyn. Stop lying to yourself. I think you know better than us the character of a bartender. Face the reality, okay?”

Her voice was exceedingly calm without the slightest hint of criticism because she could totally understand her feelings now. Nevertheless, she didn’t agree with her decision.

After all, it was glaringly evident that it was an unequal relationship.

It was indeed true that Abelyn liked that bartender, but the same couldn’t be said for the bartender. At most, he merely regarded her as a plaything to kill time. And the proof of that was in the thorough investigation Dustin had previously conducted on him.

“What are you trying to say, Joan?” Livid, Abelyn’s hands clenched into fists, and she appeared exceedingly worked up.

Why won’t she simply open her eyes and admit the truth? Joan simply couldn’t understand her.

“I’m trying to say that we’re all adults here, so you can’t be so wilful anymore! That bartender doesn’t like you. Can you please snap out of it?”

Slap! A slap landed on Joan’s face.

At once, Joan’s cheek smarted.

“Have you lost your mind, Abelyn?” Dustin yanked Abelyn up from the sofa and plopped down beside Joan. Looking at her in dismay, he panicked and anxiously blurted, “How are you feeling? Does it hurt? And are you okay?”

“I’m fine, so don’t worry. It doesn’t hurt,” Joan reassured awkwardly as she flashed him a smile.

At the side, Abelyn hung her head with a remorseful expression. Oh God, I was simply too impulsive just now!

“Are you out of your mind, Abelyn? What did Joan ever do to you? She merely advised you out of the kindness of her heart, but you just wouldn’t listen!”

Turning to Abelyn, Dustin lambasted her fiercely.

“I’m sorry, Joan. I was just too pissed off earlier…” Abelyn stammered.

“It’s okay, so don’t worry about it.” Joan didn’t take it to heart. She understood her feelings at that moment, so she naturally wouldn’t take offense at her.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2755

I Am Her Boyfriend

“Abelyn, we won’t bother you anymore if you ever act that impulsively again. Just do whatever you want!” Dustin was exceedingly serious when he said that.

Upon hearing that, Abelyn trembled. “I was just too angry earlier…”

“What’s there to be angry about? Wasn’t Joan simply speaking the truth? We couldn’t just look on as you jump into a hellhole, could we?”

“What hellhole? When did I jump into a hellhole? Who said I was jumping into a hellhole?” Abelyn argued relentlessly as she stared Dustin down indignantly.

However, Dustin’s attention was wholly focused on Joan then, so he had no time to entertain her.

“How are you feeling? Do we need to make a trip to the hospital?”

“Don’t worry, I’m fine. It’ll be right as rain tomorrow,” Joan replied while scrutinizing Abelyn’s expression closely.

A long while later, Abelyn pivoted to leave, probably finding the atmosphere awkward.

“Where are you going?” Dustin roared worriedly.

“That’s none of your business!” Abelyn’s answer almost had him bursting a blood vessel.

“Go after her and make sure that nothing happens to her!” Joan urged, nudging him gently.

What would happen to her? She must have gone to look for that bartender, no doubt! Staring at the disappearing figure, Dustin heaved a sigh.

“Hurry up and go after her!” Joan exhorted him to chase after Abelyn, worried that something would happen to her in her emotional state.

Fine, then. Putting down the things in his hands, Dustin sprinted out of the living room. As he ran, he shouted, “Abelyn!”

Nonetheless, he still didn’t see any sign of her after searching for a long time though he wasn’t certain whether she had truly gone far or deliberately hidden.

Hmm? Did her legs really carry her away that fast? Argh! Why is she so worrisome! She must have gone to the nightclub!

Sure enough, Abelyn had gone straight to the nightclub. Dustin likewise arrived there quickly. Joan, on the other hand, was massaging her cheek with an egg to reduce the swelling.

In the nightclub, neon lights strobed and flashed. The atmosphere was extremely lively. The sexy figures, alluring makeup, and intoxicating liquor blended together to create a sensual picture.

Abelyn headed straight to one of the bartenders and requested a drink. Then, she guzzled it down.

“What’s wrong? Are you in a bad mood?” the bartender murmured flirtatiously while hooking a finger under her chin.

“Tell me this—do you really like me?” Abelyn questioned gingerly as she clutched his hand tightly.

Hearing that, the bartender instantly went mum. Dropping his hand, he then continued preparing drinks.

At his reaction, Abelyn’s expression suddenly turned vicious. “Why, do you not have the guts to answer my question? If so, it means you don’t like me!”

Her voice was filled with utter disdain.

“I didn’t answer your question because I’m very busy,” the bartender explained placidly.

What a load of b*llshit! How long does it take to utter a single sentence? Turning away, Abelyn continued drinking.

“Abelyn!” Dustin abruptly appeared in front of her, panting for breath.

Why did he follow me here? Abelyn shot daggers at the man in front of her as fury raged within her.

“Let’s go! I’ll take you home. Joan is still waiting at your place!” While saying that, Dustin dragged her away.

“Let go of me! I’m not leaving!” Abelyn snapped irritatedly.

“Alright, that enough. Stop kicking up a fuss and come with me.”

“I said, I’m not leaving!” Abelyn was already tipsy at that moment.

“Who are you?” The bartender stalked over at once upon hearing the commotion.

“I’m her boyfriend!” Dustin fibbed.

“You’re her boyfriend? Who am I, then?” The bartender looked at him with contempt.

Meanwhile, as Joan’s worry about Abelyn mounted while she sat around at her house, she finally gave in to her impulse and headed to the nightclub. When she arrived, she promptly caught sight of Dustin. “How are things going?”

In response, Dustin merely shook his head without saying anything.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2756

Make A Night Of It

At that very moment, Abelyn was nonchalantly guzzling wine.

Good heavens! She must have gone off her rocker! Incensed, Joan went right up to her face and glared at her. “Let’s go!”

“Huh? Where to?” Abelyn asked dubiously as she turned and looked at the person before her.

By then, she was already inebriated.

“Let’s go home, Abelyn!” Joan’s voice was laden with a mixture of emotions on the verge of explosion.

All of a sudden, the bartender came over. “Who are you?” he demanded provocatively as he eyed Joan.

“I’m her friend.”

“Well, I’m her boyfriend!” The bartender put on a cocky expression while mixing drinks.

Hah! He’s merely a bartender in a nightclub, so what’s there to be cocky about?

“So, you’re her boyfriend? Alright, let me ask you this. What’s your interest in Abelyn?” Joan’s voice dripped with scorn.

As a matter of fact, compatibility in terms of social statuses was paramount. Everyone should know their place, or there wouldn’t be any meaning in life.

“Hey, what are you trying to say? You’re making it sound as though I have some ulterior motive. We like each other, okay? You know nothing, yet you’re yapping here. How ill-mannered!” the bartender retorted in chagrin.

Well, well… he’s really something else! But on second thought, anyone who works in a nightclub can’t be guileless!

Joan threw Dustin a helpless look before shifting her gaze back to Abelyn. “Are you going to leave with me, Abelyn?”

The moment that question fell, Abelyn sprang to her feet.

“Joan Watts!” she snarled coldly. “Why must you keep browbeating me time and again? What did I do wrong? I just fell in love with a man, no? What’s the big deal about it? Did I commit murder or arson? I didn’t break any law! I’m just dating, so why must you both object?” she roared as she pointed at the two people before her, her face flushed bright red.

“What should we do, Joan? From the look of things, Abelyn isn’t going to leave with us.” Dustin nudged Joan beside him in a slight panic.

Oh God, what should we do about Abelyn? Why did she suddenly become so stubborn? As Joan stared at the woman before her, melancholy blanketed her face.

“You want to drink, yes? Alright, let’s make a night of it!” While saying that, she dragged Abelyn to the corner at the side.

“What are you doing? Let go of me! Why are you getting handsy with me? Help! Someone is molesting me!” Abelyn was already drunk, so she had no idea who exactly was hauling her to the corner.

Dustin, on the other hand, was gripped by puzzlement as he gaped at the two women’s backs. What’s happening here? Is Joan going to drink with Abelyn? But isn’t she here to persuade her home?

As he pinned his gaze on them both a near distance away, his expression reflected his astonishment.

“Don’t drink, Dustin. I’ll drink with her. If both of us end up sloshed later, you’re responsible for sending us home!” Joan asserted. Knowing that Abelyn would never go home right then, she decided to drink with her.

At long last, understanding dawned upon Dustin, and he nodded firmly in agreement.

With that, the two women started competing among themselves.

“Are you sure you manage, Joan? I remember that you can’t hold your liquor,” Abelyn teased.

Hah! What nonsense! Lifting the wine glass, Joan gulped down the contents in one go before casually wiping her mouth. Suppressing the burning sensation in her throat, she declared, “How was that? Good enough for you?”

“Excellent! Just because you were so sporting, I’ll have another round as well!” As Abelyn said that, she raised the wine glass beside her and guzzled everything.

Good gracious, she has really lost her mind! She has already drunk so much, yet she’s still drinking!

“Don’t force it if you can’t take it anymore, Abelyn,” Joan coaxed in concern.

“No way! Who said I couldn’t take it? I can still drink several more rounds!” Abelyn picked up another glass of wine while saying that.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2757

Recognized

Upon seeing this, Dustin was truly rendered speechless. With a worried expression on his face, he urged, “Take it easy, both of you. Don’t drink too much as it’s bad for your health.”

“Shut it! You’re not even Joan’s match despite being a man!” Abelyn was totally wasted then, so she naturally wouldn’t have much of a recollection of whatever she said.

“Tell me, Abelyn, why do you like that bartender? What exactly about him that makes you so crazy about him?”

“Everything!” Sprawling over the table, Abelyn muttered, “He looks like my ex-boyfriend, so that’s reason enough.”

Her voice was a mere whisper, but beside her, Joan still caught her final remark. In a flash, she understood her obstinacy.

“What is it?” Dustin queried curiosity while looking at Joan in front of him.

“She said that bartender looks like her ex-boyfriend.”

All at once, both of them went silent.

As Joan gazed at the woman lying over the table, sympathy welled within her…

“Ahh!” Joan cried out when someone walking past her bumped into her out of the blue.

“I’m sorry. It was an accident.” The other person hastily wiped the liquor off her while apologizing.

“It’s okay.” Joan flashed her a smile.

Suddenly jumping up, the other person pointed at Joan and exclaimed hesitantly, “Hey, aren’t you the woman…”

Hmm? What is she trying to say? Joan was perplexed as she stared at the person in front of her. I don’t think I know her.

“Aren’t you the woman who snatched Lucinda Xenos’ bra?”

At that, panic instantly engulfed Joan. Damn it! Why is there someone who would remember such trivial gossip that has nothing to do with her?

“I’m sorry, but you got the wrong person.” As Joan said that, she made to leave.

“Hey, stop right there! I definitely didn’t get the wrong person! Everyone, come check it out! She’s the person who snatched someone else’s bra!”

In the blink of an eye, many strangers surrounded Joan.

“So, you’re Joan Watts?”

“She’s even the ex-wife of the president of Norton Corporation. How shameful!”

“Ah, ex-wife means she’s a stranger to him!”

Several people around her kept talking about her, their expressions disdainful.

“Stop running your mouths! That’s not true!” Dustin immediately raced over and defended her while shielding her behind him.

“And who are you? Don’t tell me you’re her boy toy?”

“Exactly! She’s greedy as hell, what with her wandering eye! Therefore, karma will get her sooner or later!”

“Right back at you!” Dustin roared indignantly as he pointed at them. He simply couldn’t fathom how those people had the nerve to spread such rumors when they didn’t know the first thing about it.

“What are you if not her boy toy? Why would you be with her, then?” The scene quickly descended into an uproar, and the atmosphere turned exceedingly mortifying.

At that precise moment, Joan was seized by the urge to crawl into a hole and never come out.

“Sorry, we’ve still got something to do, so please excuse us.” As she said that, she made to do a cut and run.

“Jeez, why are you in such a hurry? Are you panicked now? Why would you be flustered if you hadn’t done those despicable things?” the person censured relentlessly with a contemptuous expression.

Damn it all to hell! Why won’t they just drop it?

Joan’s hands clenched into fists, and a chilly air radiated from her.

“Let’s go, Joan. Just ignore them.” Dustin then wanted to pull her out of there.

But unexpectedly, that person proceeded to holler at the top of his lungs. “Everyone, come and have a look here! This woman, Joan Watts, is really something else! She pesters Larry Norton during the day, and at night, she carries on with her boy toy!”

In a trice, the crowd grew. They took photos and hurled criticisms, making the scene extremely embarrassing.

At his wits’ end, Dustin swiftly helped Abelyn up and left the nightclub with Joan.

“Are you okay?” He then turned to the side and looked at the person in front of him worriedly.

Joan merely shook her head lightly in response, saying nary a word. However, how could she possibly be fine? She had been plagued by that matter throughout the past few days, so it had long since driven her crazy.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2758

Pursued

“Joan!” Abelyn whined as she sprawled on the back seat. Her expression was pained, probably because she wasn’t feeling well after having drunk her weight in liquor.

“What’s wrong, Abelyn?” Twisting his head back, Dustin peered at her grimly.

“I want some water,” the woman in the back seat muttered unceasingly.

Darting her gaze around, Joan alighted from the car and strode toward a supermarket nearby. However, she had no inkling of the peril she would be facing in the next moment.

“Hey, look! Isn’t that Joan Watts?”

Out of the blue, a sharp, unfamiliar voice rang out from behind her. As soon as she pivoted, she spotted a dozen men charging toward her.

Without an ounce of hesitation, she took off running.

Finally, Dustin noticed the precarious situation. He immediately climbed out of the car and shielded Joan behind him.

“What happened?”

“Men are chasing after me! Quick, let’s drive and make a break for it!” Agitated, Joan promptly slipped into the car.

As Dustin caught sight of the unfamiliar men running over, mystification inundated him. Well, I simply can’t figure out what Joan and Lucinda Xenos’ matter has to do with these irrelevant people!

“Stop right there!” He abruptly bellowed while pointing a finger at the dozen or so men before him.

In a flash, all those people stilled and jerked to a halt.

“What are you all doing?” Dustin’s voice carried a hint of threat.

“We’re looking for Joan Watts.” One of the men eyed him condescendingly.

“Why are you looking for her? As far as I know, she doesn’t know the lot of you!” Dustin shot back ruthlessly. If I don’t wield my dominance over these busybodies, they’re going to step all over me!

“Who are you? And why are you acting the hero here?”

That simple remark had Dustin seeing red. “If you don’t want to get yourself into hot water, I’d advise you to quickly get lost! Otherwise…”

While dropping into a fighting stance, he stared coldly at their hostile expressions. Of course, there wasn’t any need for him to be amicable either.

At that turn of events, the dozen or so men in front of him glanced at each other with hesitant expressions.

“Boss, that seems to be Dustin Silverman.”

“He has a certain amount of power in this city.”

“He also seems to be acquainted with Jory Synder.”

A few men kept whispering into the ear of the man in the lead while appearing rather panicked.

After pondering for a moment, the leader waved a hand, upon which all men dispersed in no time.

Dustin then spun around and quickly returned to the car. As he ran his gaze over Joan, he anxiously asked, “How are you feeling? Are you okay? Did they do anything to you?”

“No, I’m fine. Don’t worry, for they didn’t manage to catch me,” Joan promptly reassured.

Phew! I’m glad to hear that!

Breathing a sigh of relief, Dustin then started the car.

Very quickly, the three of them arrived at Abelyn’s villa. Abelyn’s villa was located in a relatively isolated place, so few people knew her address.

“Wake up, Abelyn!” Joan called out as she patted her, but Abelyn had already passed out with no signs of rousing anytime soon.

“Alright, don’t call her anymore since she has already passed out. Go and take a rest, Joan.” Dustin showed her into the guest room right away. “We’ll leave the talk for tomorrow.”

After saying that, he closed the door for her.

The next day, sunlight shone in through the window, making everything appear warm. Looking haggard, the person on the bed rubbed her eyes and rolled over.

“What happened?” Abelyn muttered in bafflement as she glanced down at her clothed self. Did I get plastered last night? Then, how did I get home? No, that’s not right. I went to look for the bartender last night! So, why did I suddenly…

Glancing around, she was dead certain that she was in her house. Yet, she simply couldn’t figure out how she got back.

Hmm… This is really strange… She scratched her head hard as she tried recalling everything that had happened yesterday.

“Ahh!” she abruptly shouted when her memories came rushing back. I went to the bar for drinks, then Dustin and Joan showed up. So, where are they? Where did they go?

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2759

Leave Him

Abelyn promptly scrambled out of bed and dashed out of her bedroom. However, there wasn’t a single soul in the living room.

“Dustin? Joan?” she greeted tentatively before she realized her mistake the next moment. How could Joan be here? She must have gone home! But Dustin is probably still here, no? Or has he gone out?

While she was circling the place in search of Dustin, he suddenly came out of the kitchen with a spoon in his hand. “I’m here.”

Oh, it turns out that he hasn’t gone out, after all.

“Um… about last night…” Abelyn started hesitantly as she stared at the man in front of her.

“What about last night?” Dustin deliberately prompted, suppressing the aggravation within him. Well, well… she actually drank like a fish without considering her ability to hold her liquor!

“I presume that nothing happened between us last night?” Abelyn gazed at him solemnly, her expression grave. If something really happened between us, my entire life would be ruined!

“No,” Dustin replied quietly.

All at once, Abelyn’s eyes lit up. Ah, he’s truly a gentleman that he didn’t take advantage of me! At the same time, her lips curved into an approving smile.

“Alright, go and wash up. Then, wake Joan up,” Dustin ordered while heading back to the kitchen to resume his cooking.

“Uhh…” In the bedroom, the person on the bed whimpered. Joan then opened her eyes and stretched before slipping out of bed.

“You’re awake?” Dustin greeted her.

“Yeah.” Joan twisted her neck to soothe the muscles. Right on the heels of that, she inquired wearily, “Where’s Abelyn? Is she up?”

“Yup. I’m here.” Abelyn waved a hand at her in greeting, her expression calm and unruffled. On the contrary, Joan was assailed by waves of fury.

“Abelyn Chipman!” Her voice was colored with rage.

Sensing her ire, Abelyn leaped up from the sofa and instinctively backed away. As she stared at Joan before her, fear crept into her eyes. What’s wrong with her? Why does she appear so mad?

“Why, have you forgotten everything that had happened last night?” Joan drawled, gradually drawing closer to her and pinning her down on the sofa.

Huh? What happened last night? Abelyn’s face was a mask of bemusement as she gazed at the person in front of her. “What happened?”

Good heavens! Is she for real? Has she truly forgotten everything? Joan’s eyes went wide, and she pinned her gaze on her. She created trouble once she started drinking, and now, she has forgotten everything!

“Then, tell me what’s the deal between you and that bartender.” Joan regarded her warily while anticipating her answer.

What else could it be other than the obvious? Both of us are single, and we like each other quite a bit…

“I like him, and he likes me as well,” Abelyn stammered.

Like hell he likes her! That bartender only chose to date her for her money, and the only reason she likes him is that he resembles her ex-boyfriend! We can all see that plain as day, so why is she so blind and simply insists on keeping up the pretense?

Joan rubbed her hands anxiously, her worry shooting through the roof.

“Please reconsider it carefully, Abelyn. We’re both extremely worried about you.” Dustin’s voice was tinged with a hint of disgruntlement.

After all, most of Abelyn’s family were abroad. Besides, it was a sudden decision for her to return to Chanaea this time, so she had no other close friends besides Dustin and Joan.

“What’s there to reconsider? I really like him a lot,” Abelyn retorted willfully.

Like him? Does she really like the bartender or her ex-boyfriend? Joan eyed her skeptically upon hearing that.

“Leave him, Abelyn. He isn’t serious with you. In fact, he has tons of women out there.” Joan was very blunt, but it was the truth.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2760

Someone Is At The Door

Joan and Dustin had both investigated the bartender. Not only was his character atrocious, but he was also an extremely rude person. Thus, if Abelyn were to get together with him, he would definitely be trampling all over her in the future. Neither of them could stand watching her being duped.

“Joan, Dustin, I hope both of you can understand, respect, support, and acknowledge my relationship.” Abelyn was exceedingly serious and earnest, but it all appeared to be a joke in Joan and Dustin’s eyes.

Why did she suddenly become so naive? Understanding eluded Joan. How could she possibly fall for a degenerate? Although that bartender is very handsome and skilled at sweet talk, he undeniably can’t bring her happiness. What’s more, he can’t even stay faithful to her!

As the three of them continued staring at each other in the living room, the atmosphere turned incredibly awkward. Joan and Dustin wanted Abelyn to back out of the relationship, but she herself was adamant about sticking with that bartender. They remained in a stalemate as neither party could convince the other.

Knock, knock, knock!

Out of the blue, knocking sounded on the door. Hearing that, Joan’s brows creased deeply, and she guardedly mused, “Who’s outside?” Don’t tell me those reporters followed me here?

“I don’t know.” Dustin shook his head. He sounded slightly disquieting, worried about the same issue as Joan.

In the end, they both returned to their respective rooms, leaving Abelyn in the living room. This was Abelyn’s villa, after all, so she should be the one opening the door to avoid any other troubles cropping out further.

After putting away her irritation and schooling her expression, Abelyn slowly got up and headed to the door.

“Who’s there?”

“It’s me!” A familiar male voice drifted into her ears.

Upon hearing that, Abelyn instantly jumped with joy and opened the door. Throwing herself into the arms of the man at the door, she coquettishly asked, “Why are you here?”

“I missed you, so I came. Why, am I not welcomed?” the bartender questioned.

“Hey, how could you say that? Of course, you’re welcomed! Wait a moment. I’ll just change, and we’ll go out…” As Abelyn said that, she whirled around to dash back into the house.

“Hold on!” All of a sudden, the bartender grabbed her arm.

Pivoting, Abelyn looked at him while blinking her eyes in curiosity.

“Why don’t we stay home instead of going out? Don’t you like staying in?” The bartender pulled her into his arms and rested his chin on the top of her head.

Um, well… I do, but there’s someone else in the house! Dustin and Joan don’t like him to begin with, so an altercation might transpire if they were to know that he’s here!

“Let’s go out instead since I’d like to go for some fresh air. Pretty please?” Abelyn kept shaking his arm while putting on a pitiful expression.

At that, the bartender lifted his head to the sky and inhaled deeply, a chill flashing in his eyes.

“Alright, then. Whatever you say,” he concurred at long last.

Subsequently, Abelyn raced to her room to change.

Ugh! What a damn fussy woman! The bartender then swept his gaze over the place and took in everything. In the next moment, the corners of his lips turned up. Well, well… She’s really a rich woman!

Very quickly, Abelyn came out, and the two of them left the villa. Before leaving, the bartender glanced over his shoulder at the villa.

“Where is Abelyn? Where did she go?” Joan asked Dustin after stepping out of the room.

“She has probably gone out,” Dustin replied placidly while staring at the door.

Could it have been Abelyn’s friend? Ah, never mind if she wants to go out. Joan then walked over to the sofa and sat down.

“What about you? What’s your plan?” Dustin inquired solemnly, turning to look at her.

What plan can I have? At this stage, I can only bide my time.

“I have people looking for Lucinda Xenos, so there’ll probably be news soon,” Joan answered softly while gazing out the window with squinted eyes.