Ch. 2771..2780
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2771
The Poisonous Flowers
All of a sudden, Larry grasped her arm as he pulled her away from the crowd.
“Larry, what are you doing? We should at least greet them,” Joan said in confusion. Larry remained silent despite her protests and continued to drag her away.
Why is he acting so strangely? Joan was stunned when she saw the crowd in front of them.
In the blink of an eye, the duo arrived at the flower shop.
“These were the exact flowers that I sold to her,” Joan said in earnest as she pointed at a bouquet.
Warily, Larry knelt to observe the flowers up close.
“An expert checked these plants before. He claimed that these flowers contain a rare type of poison. Additionally, its toxicity is reliant on time. After a specific time period, all traces of the poison will vanish.” She sighed as she explained.
Joan could not wrap her head around the issue. Why did the accident only happen in my flower shop?
After all, these flowers could be easily bought from other flower shops too. All of the plants were sourced from the same place. Yet, the other shops experienced no accidents. Moreover, the poison in the flowers was only discovered after being bought by customers. Was it truly just a coincidence?
“Were you present when the expert checked these flowers?” Larry asked her with a stoic and serious expression.
“Yes.”
She could never erase that moment from her memory. Joan had endured the most embarrassing moment of her life when they hurled cruel insults at her.
“Do you have the expert’s contact number?”
“Yes!” Joan quickly rummaged for her phone and searched through the list for the expert’s number before sending it to Larry.
Excellent! The corners of Larry’s lips twitched upwards into a pleased smile when he caught sight of the expert’s number. It seemed like he had found a solution to the problem.
“Wait for me here. I’ll be heading out for a moment.”
Bang! The flower shop’s door slammed shut as Larry entered his car and sped off into the distance.
Seated in the corner of the restaurant, both men locked gazes with each other. They seemed to be waiting for the other to speak up.
“Mr. Norton, what is your purpose for contacting me?” The expert broke the silence and asked in a wary tone. His gaze was fixated intently on Larry as he spoke.
“I want to ask you about the poisoning incident that had just occurred,” Larry replied whilst he stirred his cup of coffee.
Larry’s words caused the expert to jolt upwards in his seat as realization dawned upon the man. “Ah, I recall the incident. What would you like to know?’
“Can you tell me about poison’s components and the time period required for it to take effect… “ Larry inquired. He asked specific questions in order to uncover the truth behind the incident.
“These flowers are a rare species. Most of the time, its poison requires a specific period of time to activate,” the expert explained in earnest.
The expert’s honest and straightforward attitude earned Larry’s respect. It was a pleasant experience to talk to someone with high intellect. Larry’s tensed expression began to relax as he watched the expert talk.
“Mr. Norton, is there anything else you’d like to know?”
It was clear that the expert was a respected professional. At the same time, he wasn’t easily swayed or intimidated by power. Thus, the expert did not revere or shower Larry with compliments. Yet, he did not deceive Larry too. The expert remained straightforward and steadfast.
“I’m grateful for your help.”
All of a sudden, Larry rose to his feet and outstretched his right hand.
The scene shocked the expert as he gaped at Larry in disbelief. He hadn’t expected Larry to act in such a modest manner.
“Mr. Norton, you…” The expert stammered.
“If you are willing, you can address me by my name. If you don’t mind, we can befriend each other.” Larry offered with a warm smile.
Huh? Is this a joke? For a brief moment, the expert was stunned speechless. After he snapped out of his daze, he nodded and returned Larry’s smile with a bright grin of his own.
Larry was confident that the expert would become a valuable friend who would help him greatly in the future.
Gradually, the sky began to darken as the hospital turned quiet. In the ward, an elderly woman seated on the couch sobbed sorrowfully and wiped her tears away.
“Mom…” The patient on the bed breathed out in a weak voice.
Immediately, the elderly woman leaped to her feet and ran towards the bed.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2772
Unconscious
“Sweetie, are you awake?” she exclaimed in a hoarse and raspy voice.
“Mom, I’m so thirsty,” the patient murmured weakly. Immediately, the elderly woman handed her daughter a glass of water on the table. The woman had a worried and troubled expression painted across her face.
Bang! The door burst open to reveal two fierce-looking thugs. The men emitted a menacing aura. Seeing the duo, the patient quickly shut her eyes and turned away to hide her face from view.
“Is she still alive?” one of the men asked coldly. The other thug barged his way in and yanked the patient upright.
Yet, the patient remained motionless and did not respond to the rough manhandling. The elderly woman couldn’t believe the sight before her eyes. It seemed like her daughter was never awake in the first place.
Bang! The man hurled the patient back to the bed after she did not respond. With that, the two men left as they pulled out their phones.
“Sweetie, are you alright?” The elderly woman rushed forward after closing the door.
Seeing her daughter in such a helpless state caused a pang of sadness in her heart. Just as the patient was about to reply to her mother, the door burst open again.
“Be careful with your words in the future,” the men uttered before leaving again. Their ominous words served as a sinister warning.
Seeing their figures vanish in the distance, a flicker of anguish flickered across the patient’s eyes. All she wanted was to do was earn money! Who’d expect that she would nearly lose her life because of it!
“Ms. Duff, she has yet to regain consciousness. You can relax,” a deep and muffled voice echoed from the hallway.
Tonight, a single crescent moon hung on the night sky. There wasn’t a single star to be seen. The darkness created a very quiet atmosphere. In the deep of the night, most people were in a deep slumber. Yet, there were still a few people who could not fall asleep due to worry and anxiety.
Joan tossed and turned on the bed. She shifted her gaze eyes towards the dark sky. All of these troubles had caused Joan to lose the bright gleam she once had in her eyes.
When will everything finally come to an end? Her body trembled as she clenched her blankets in a tight grip.
“Sweetie, why can’t we let everyone else know that you’ve awakened?”
“Mom, stop asking about it.” She turned around to face the window. The patient’s haggard face was lined with exhaustion.
“Is someone trying to hurt you?” her mother questioned again.
“No,” the patient replied after a brief moment of hesitation. Despite her relaxed tone, her hands were balled into tight fists. There was a sorrowful look across her face. How foolish! I must have lost her mind! Why did I agree to the woman’s deal? The woman is the sole reason I performed those horrendous deeds.
Whilst Larry worked, he tried to uncover the truth behind Joan’s incident.
On the other hand, Joan remained at the flower shop to tend to her flowers. However, the shop remained devoid of any customers as Joan was plagued with anxiety and helplessness. She feared that the blame would shift to Ms. Young. Additionally, the patient’s unconsciousness was also part of her worries. In the worst-case scenario, the truth would never be uncovered.
In the office, Caspian could not help but voice his concerns. ”Larry, how are things progressing so far? Caspian asked worriedly.
What other choice do I have? All I can do right now is investigate this matter step by step.
Larry lifted his head as he sighed tiredly. His gaze was dark and devoid of any hope. Who exactly is the mastermind behind this plan?
“Larry, do you need my help?” Caspian asked eagerly.
Larry remained silent and merely shook his head in reply.
“Larry, there is actually a matter that arose. I’m not sure if I should let you know…” Caspian stammered.
“Spit it out!” Larry commanded coldly.
“Ms. Duff has returned.”
Caspian’s shocking words prompted Larry to leap to his feet in shock as he whirled around. A dark storm seemed to gather over his head when he heard the news. He’d gone through all this effort to send her out of the country. Why is she back now?
“She’s asking you out for dinner tonight.” Caspian added.
There is no way I’m going! In an instant, the thought of rejecting her invitation popped into his mind. He had no wish to meet Della again. Larry’s only wish was the spend the rest of his peaceful life with Joan. Yet, his hopeful dream was shattered by countless meddlers.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2773
Finding Out The Truth
“I have matters to settle. You should go in my place,” Larry replied in a displeased tone.
What is he talking about? Della had specifically extended her invitation to Larry! Caspian’s expression turned troubled when he heard Larry’s statement.
“Why do you look like you are in turmoil? Are you unwilling to go?” Larry asked when he saw that Caspian’s mood had taken a drastic turn.
Of course, I don’t want to go! Jessica had once warned him to stay as far away as possible from Della.
“Larry, why don’t you tell her that you are unwilling to meet her?” Caspian mumbled bashfully.
Larry stared at him with suspicion. He wanted an explanation for Caspian’s unwillingness.
“Ah, Jessica forbade me from contacting Ms. Duff,” Caspian replied with a guilty bow.
In an instant, realization dawned upon Larry. Jessica must be jealous of Della. It seems like she has strong feelings for Caspian. This trait of hers was rather admirable.
“Alright, I understand. Continue with your work. I’ll deal with it myself.” Larry dismissed him with a wave of his hand.
Wait a moment! Is Della connected to the poisoning incident? However, she’d just returned. How could she have the time to be involved in this? Cautiously, Larry mulled over his sudden suspicions towards Della.
He made the decision to unearth more evidence about this case. Only the truth would solve this mystery.
After he straightened his shirt and tidied up his appearance, Larry headed out. He didn’t visit Joan, nor did he return home. Instead, Larry made his way towards the hospital.
The elderly woman recognized him immediately. Yet, she did not lash out due to his authoritative status. “Why did you come here?” she asked brusquely.
“I’m here to visit your daughter,” Larry replied with a gentle smile. With that, he strode towards the bed and scrutinized the patient with a careful gaze.
All of a sudden, his gaze brightened. It seemed as if he had picked up something.
“Has she regained consciousness?” Larry asked in order to test the waters.
“No,” the elderly woman replied in immediate panic.
It was a blatant lie! Larry turned towards the patient again as a frown began to furrow his brows. There were fruit stains flecked under the patient’s nails. It seems like she hadn’t managed to clean them in time. Larry was confident that she had regained consciousness.
“Let me handle all of your hospital and medical fees.” Larry continued firmly.
The elderly woman merely nodded her head as she let out a sound of acknowledgment. Her worried gaze darted back to her daughter.
“Why isn’t she awake yet? She’s been unconscious for so many days,” Larry commented on purpose. His eyes remained fixated intently on the patient.
Although the patient’s eyes remained shut, he could clearly see that her eyeballs twitched underneath her eyelids. This time, Larry was even more certain that she was awake.
“Please collect the medicine.” A nurse walked over and informed the elderly woman in a sweet and gentle voice.
Immediately, the elderly woman left the ward as she trailed after the nurse to collect her daughter’s medicine.
Seeing their figures vanish in the distance, Larry crossed his arms behind his back in contemplation before he knelt down and whispered into the patient’s ear. “Speak up, who asked you to do this?”
The patient flinched but kept her eyes close.
“I know that you are awake. Tell me the truth; I’ll make sure to protect you.” Larry’s baritone voice was bewitching and compelling at the same time. Slowly, the patient opened her eyes.
“Please close the door,” she asked quietly before closing her eyes in fear that someone else would notice that she had awoken.
Larry spared a glance at the door before closing it shut.
“How did you know that I was awake?”
Larry remained silent and merely extended a finger towards her nails. Immediately, the patient was aware that he was someone who couldn’t be easily underestimated.
“Alright, I will tell you the truth. However, you have to promise that you’ll keep me and my mum out of harm’s way.”
“No problem!” Larry vowed.
After receiving confirmation of his promise, the patient began to recall her past…
At the same time, Joan was busy cleaning up the flower shop.
Knock! Knock! Knock! Loud bangs echoed as someone pounded rapidly on the door.
How strange, the shop isn’t open today! Quickly, Joan walked outside to investigate the loud noises. Yet, she froze up in utter panic when she caught sight of the angry mob knocking at her door.
That’s right; there were a group of good-for-nothings looking for trouble.
“Joan, open the door! You have the audacity to harm others. Yet you won’t confess your sins!”
“That’s right! How could you let Ms. Young take the blame for the murder that you committed?”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2774
Angry Mob
“Ungrateful witch! You are nothing but a heartless murderer!”
In the blink of an eye, Joan was falsely labeled with countless defamatory titles.
I’m not an ungrateful witch; I’m not a heartless murderer! Joan sank to her knees with her head clutched in her hands as she whispered to herself. Their ferocious faces and loud hollers caused Joan to stiffen in panic as she gasped for air. Additionally, it felt like she was being suffocated by their murderous glares.
Joan could not control the chaotic situation that erupted around her. In the midst of the mayhem, she found herself desperately longing for Larry. Yet, her lover was not by her side.
Bang! All of a sudden, a few youngsters began to pelt the flower shop with rocks.
Seeing their behavior, a flash of unadulterated fear began to grow in her eyes. What should I do? Anxiously, she paced back and forth in front of the counter.
“Come out!”
“That’s right, hurry up and show yourself!”
As more time passed, the horde outside the shop grew in size. Their frenzied yells seemed to rise in pitch too. Yet, not a single person stepped up to defend her.
“Stop it!” Joan heard the echo of a familiar voice.
Dustin!
Joan’s worried expression relaxed after she saw his figure outside her shop.
“I’ll lodge a report if you continue to wreak havoc.” Dustin threatened whilst he pulled out his phone and pretended that he was about to make a call.
“How hilarious! Go ahead and call the police. They won’t detain us. Instead, they will capture the culprit – Joan Watts,” the crowd hollered in retaliation.
In an instant, the crowd erupted back into chaos.
These people were utterly despicable! Dustin glared at the crowd before him with clenched fists. Seeing their reckless behavior filled him with rage. It was clear that the incident hadn’t been settled yet. How could they try to shift the blame and point their fingers to accuse Joan? Is it because that the security in this area was poor? Or is it due to their lack of moral values?
Dustin felt a stab of disappointment and helplessness when he stared at their rowdy antics. After all, he was aware of his own strengths and limitations. He wouldn’t be able to help Joan at all. However, he could not stand by idly whilst they attacked her.
“Leave this place in an instant!” All of a sudden, a man emerged in front of everyone.
The crowd seemed to stir restlessly as the man approached. “Mr. Owens, isn’t this matter unrelated to you?”
“Joan’s business is my business,” Caiden replied airily.
His bold reply silenced them immediately. They were too fearful to refute Caiden’s statement.
Caiden’s high status was well known to everyone. Even if they hadn’t seen him before, they would have heard his name. He was ruthless when it came to handling business and performed his tasks with frightening accuracy. Additionally, Caiden was a man of his word. There were rumors that he gave the cold shoulder to every woman except Joan.
In the blink of an eye, the crowd scattered. Dustin and Caiden were the only two people left on the scene.
The two men greeted each other respectfully before walking into the flower shop.
“They’ve left. Are you alright?” Dustin questioned worriedly and clutched Joan’s arm.
The angry mob had left Joan stricken with fear. In her state of fright, she couldn’t muster a reply to his question and merely nodded to confirm that she was unharmed.
“Joan, what happened?” Caiden stepped forward and asked with concern.
What else would it be? This is all part of a ploy to harm me! ”I’m being framed,” Joan replied lowly as her body trembled in uncontrollable quivers.
Caiden could hear the helplessness and despair in her tone from Joan’s reply. It seemed like there were countless people who longed to tear her down.
“What do you plan to do next?” Caiden sighed and asked her. Her pitiful state caused his gaze to darken. There was a pang of sadness that bloomed in his heart when he saw Joan.
The attack left her confused and helpless. She couldn’t find any evidence to prove her innocence. “I don’t know.”
“What about Larry? Why isn’t he helping you?” Caiden continued to question.
“He’s extremely busy. However, he’s helping me to uncover the truth behind this incident,” Joan replied calmly. She seemed to lost hope in the matter.
“Relax, the justice and evidence of this case will prevail in the end. I know that you wouldn’t ever harm someone else. The truth will be revealed eventually,” Dustin reassured her firmly.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2775
Sacrifice
I believe one day, the truth will prevail. However, I doubt if all the sacrifice and damage caused are worth it.
“Joan, give me back my daughter’s life!” Out of a sudden, an older man emerged with a knife and charged towards Joan.
Joan was shocked by this scene.
“Joan, look out!” Dustin swiftly pushed her away towards the wall.
The knife was driven right into Dustin’s chest, and blood instantly streamed down his body.
“Dustin!” Joan paled in fright as she held his wound in a panic.
Caiden kicked the older man out of the flower shop and immediately escorted Dustin into the car, along with Joan.
The older man with the knife was none other than the father of the victim who was currently lying in the hospital.
Looking at the fresh blood dripping from Dustin’s body, Joan bawled out her eyes.
Dustin shut his eyes, but his mouth continued to comfort the woman in front of him. However, it was before long that he ran out of strength to speak.
With that, Joan was weeping in despair like a crazy woman. Soon they arrived at the hospital. At the sight of Caiden, all the nurses and doctors rushed to help Dustin, who had already lost consciousness by that time.
At the entrance, Joan kept stomping her feet while waiting anxiously. Her eyes were filled with complete desperation.
“This is all my fault. I should be the one stabbed.” She kept hitting at her own brain while tears continued to stream down her face. She wished she was the one who got hurt and would not have anyone sacrifice for her, especially not Dustin, whom she had owed so much.
“Joan, calm down. Dustin will be fine.” Caiden hugged her tightly, trying to give her some comfort.
He could not bear looking at the woman he loved suffering in turmoil.
“Joan!” Just then, Abelyn rushed into the corridor, with a look more petrified than any other time.
In fact, her heart sank into the deepest abyss the second she received this news.
“How’s Dustin? What happened?” Abelyn’s voice carried a hint of blame, while she tried hard to recollect herself.
“Abelyn, it was all because of me. I’m terribly sorry.” Joan blamed herself for what happened, but she knew all apologies were meaningless at that moment.
Abelyn stomped her foot in exasperation, rage welling in her heart. All that was left for her to do was close her eyes and pray for Dustin’s safety.
Finally, the ward’s door was opened after a long wait.
“Doctor, is he okay?” Joan rushed to the doctor and asked anxiously.
“Right now, he is out of danger. Fortunately, you brought him here in time, or else the condition would be severe if he lost too much blood.” The doctor explained while taking off his mask.
All of them breathed a sigh of relief,.
Thank God he’s fine. Or else I wouldn’t know how to live with that. Joan wiped away her tears and went into the ward at once.
The three of them sat on the couch and stared silently at Dustin, waiting for him to wake up.
“Caiden, you should leave first. You still have a lot of work back in the company.” Moments later, Joan turned and gazed at Caiden with an earnest look.
She could not help feeling guilty for holding Caiden up for so long.
“It’s alright. Those works are not important,” Caiden replied faintly. He meant to say that nothing was more important than Joan, and of course, Joan knew what he meant. She turned away, unwilling to look at him.
“Joan…” At that instant, the man lying on the bed resumed his consciousness.
“Dustin is asking for you. Fast!” Abelyn gave Joan a push.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2776
Awakened
“Dustin, I’m here. I’m Joan.” She ran to the side of the bed and said gently. Dustin opened his eyes slowly, with his breath sounding extremely weak and short.
If I knew this would happen, I would never open a flower shop!
Looking at the miserable Joan, Caiden felt as though a thousand needles were stabbing through his heart.
“You fool. Don’t be sorry. We are good friends, aren’t we?” Dustin struggled to lift his hand and grabbed Joan’s gently.
Indeed, he simply wanted to protect her, without expecting anything in return.
Plus, he was fully aware that love was not something that could be forced. Thus, he had decided long ago to let go of her and look after her as a friend forever.
“Dustin, I have to admit, you are truly brave.” Just then, Caiden stood up and walked up to Dustin.
“I’m sure you would do the same if you’re in my shoes,” Dustin responded.
Caiden nodded. Indeed, I would not hesitate for a second to take her place. Both of them exchanged glances and smiled.
Any man who failed to get the woman he loved would definitely choose to back down and protect her as a friend. This applied to both Caiden and Dustin. Thus they had something in common after all.
“It’s time for medicine.” Right then, a nurse came in and placed some medicine on the table. “Don’t move around these few days until you recover. Remember this.”
Abelyn, who was staring from afar, looked utterly dispirited. She could not accept that her best buddy who was still playing around lively just the previous day, was now lying on a hospital bed.
“Abelyn, what are you doing? Why are you so quiet? Don’t tell me you broke up with the bartender.” Looking at Abelyn, Dustin tried hard to crack a joke.
“You b*stard. You wish that’s true, don’t you?” Abelyn walked over to his bed slowly while wiping away her tears.
“I’ve told you that bartender is not a good man. Really. But you don’t believe me.” Dustin became too agitated that he choked a few times.
“Take it easy! Stop talking, please. You should rest!” Abelyn tucked him in.
It had become their mutual entertainment to poke at each other every time they met without realizing it.
A short while later, the two of them started bickering again. Joan and Caiden who were watching beside could not help but burst into laughter.
Indeed, Dustin and Abelyn could have made a perfect couple. However, neither of them viewed the other party romantically.
“Alright. Then I’ll go back first. Call me if anything happens.” Caiden looked at Joan affectionately.
“Okay. Thanks so much,” Joan said gently with a smile.
Even now, Caiden still was deeply attracted by Joan every time she displayed her genuine smile.
The two of them exchanged a few more words before Caiden left the hospital. Back in the ward, the atmosphere had transformed from bitterness to joy, as Dustin and Abelyn were still joking around.
“Abelyn, do you have a heart? I am a patient right now, okay? Shouldn’t you show some mercy on me?” Dustin said while acting indignantly.
“Are you kidding me? Yes, you are a patient. But at the same time, you are a man. What kind of man fights with a lady?” Abelyn responded without any sign of weakness.
This scene in front of Joan somewhat warmed her heart. It’s just like old times as if nothing has happened.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2777
Dinner Invitation
“Alright, stop fighting. It’s not early anymore,” Joan mumbled while tidying the stuff in the ward.
“Joan, I want to go home.” Out of a sudden, Dustin expressed his thought.
What’s going on? Does he really want to leave the hospital? Joan could not wrap her head around it. His sudden sentence also confounded Abelyn while she stared at him with a bizarre look. Did he eat the wrong medicine?
Abelyn ran to the table and start checking the medicines on it.
“I don’t like to stay here. Plus, I am a doctor myself, so I’m fully capable of taking care of my wound.”
Alright. It’s true that he used to be a doctor. Maybe I should respect his decision.
“No way!” Abelyn shouted abruptly after checking all the medicines.
What’s she up to now? Dustin cast Abelyn a cold glance from his bed, anticipating what she was about to say.
“You can’t go home. You have to stay here for a few days. If you go home, who is going to take care of you?”
“I have you at home.” Dustin had expected that from Abelyn, and he responded right away.
“No can do. I still need to go dating. Who has the time to look after you?”
It’s that bartender again, isn’t it? Dustin turned his face away and refused to look at Abelyn anymore. What a foolish woman. I bet she wouldn’t even know even if that man sells her out.
“You have not broken up, have you?” Joan asked surprisingly.
What kind of question is that? Abelyn stared at Joan with a rigid look, obviously displeased. Then she lifted her right hand and swore, “I’ll be responsible for my own love affair. I’m sure this will have a good outcome eventually!”
Upon hearing that, Dustin covered his head with the blanket, reluctant to talk to that unwise woman anymore.
“Caspian, please make a call to Della. Tell her that the dinner’s on me today.” Back in the office, Larry lifted his head and talked to Caspian earnestly.
Yes? Why would Larry want to treat that woman suddenly? Caspian looked at Larry in slight bewilderment but then chose not to stick his nose into this matter.
“Caspian, are you sure? Larry wants to invite me to dinner?” Della sounded skeptical on the phone.
“Yes, Ms. Duff. Larry specially asked me to call you in person.” Caspian explained slowly, as he was also startled when first heard about this.
After all, Della has always been the one taking the initiative in their relationship. Not once did Larry ever approach her like this.
After hesitating for a long while, Della eventually agreed to the invitation. Of course, she intended to make full use of this opportunity. However, she had no idea as to why Larry was asking her out this time.
The soothing music and the fragrant aroma were the perfect matches with the mesmerizing roses on the tables at the restaurant.
Eager to meet Larry, Della had arrived at the restaurant long before their appointed time.
Why isn’t he here yet? With every second passed, Della’s anxiousness started to increase while she stared attentively at everyone who entered the restaurant, as she feared she would miss him.
“You’re early.” Out of a sudden, Larry’s voice echoed from behind her.
“It’s fine. I’m free today.” Della was shocked and let out a shy smile while sorting her hair. “Larry, what’s the rare occasion?”
Why else? Obviously it is about Joan.
Larry did not provide an answer, as he lifted his hand asking for the waiter. He offered after the waiter came with the menu. “Della, what would you like to order?”
Della finished ordering in a few seconds, and she did not order much. As a fact, she had eaten a meal with Jake before she came here.
“Add a cup of coffee for me.” Upon saying that, Larry handed the menu back to the waiter. “How have you been lately?” he greeted gently after that.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2778
Confrontation
Della was slightly astonished by his greeting. Is he caring for me? A wave of joy was blooming within her heart, but she willed herself to calm down.
“I’m good.” Her fingers nervously clenched onto the side of her shirt.
“Last time when you went back, did you pay a visit to Mr. Duff?” Right then, Larry asked tentatively.
“Huh? Oh… nope. I didn’t have the time to visit my Dad.” Della immediately explained in a slightly panicky tone, as going home was merely a lie.
Why’s he suddenly asking me this? Or had he found out something? Della unnaturally took a sip of coffee while trying to calm her nerves.
“No wonder Mr. Duff called me a while ago, asking me to take good care of you.” Larry elaborated slowly, his tone sounded extremely composed.
Who needs his care? I am fully capable of taking care of myself, okay? Della cast a complicated glance at Larry. If he really means what he says, he should have agreed to be my boyfriend.
“Yes, I know. Dad mentioned it. But I’m fine,” Della responded deliberately.
“Where exactly did you go the last time you flew overseas?”
Della was at a loss with Larry’s extraordinary calmness. She kept staring at Larry but failed to derive any clue of his motive. Did he know about me giving Joan a hard time last time?
“I went to another country for a vacation. Just taking a break from here.” Della narrowed her eyes as she gazed outside the window with a dark expression.
It looks like she is still feigning ignorance. Larry took up a teaspoon and started stirring his cup of coffee. “Which country?”
Why is he so persistent? With that, Della started to feel offended. Could it be that Joan has told him everything?
“Larry, why do you want to know this? This is my privacy,” Della answered with a ruthless tone.
Indeed, that is her privacy, but at the same time, it is related to Joan. If Joan never confesses about it, I would be in the dark forever about how evil this woman actually is.
“Della, I’m sure you know about Joan and me. We both love each other truly. So I hope that you won’t pester her in the future. Just come at me directly if you have any issue.”
So he’s just worrying about Joan, after all. Della snorted coldly in a disdained manner. “Larry, what do you mean? What exactly do you want from me?”
Della’s face was now flushed red with anger.
“You know exactly what I mean. I am warning you not to find fault with Joan anymore. Or else I won’t have mercy on you due to our past relationship.”
Larry’s temper had erupted finally.
“So are you going to end our friendship just because of a single incident?” Della was at a loss with Larry’s gesture.
“Della, are you sure that it was just a single incident?”
Della was stunned momentarily upon hearing that. There’s no way he could find out about those recent incidents, is there?
“I have no idea what you’re talking about. I still have some other things to do, so please excuse me.” She could not bear to endure this humiliation anymore.
“Della, my last piece of advice for you. Stay away from Jake, or else one day you will end up his victim.”
Indeed, Della knew that Larry’s advice was well-founded. Jake had never once treated her as a friend, but just a pawn in his game.
“I don’t need your opinion on who I choose to befriend. Please mind your own business.” Upon saying that, Della stormed out on her heels.
D*mn it! On the street, Della stomped her heels in exasperation. How naive was she to think that Larry asked her out to express his goodwill, as the reality turned out to be far beyond the expectation?
Back in the restaurant, Larry was relaxing on his seat while casually cutting his steak, as though nothing had happened.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2779
Disguise
On the other hand, Della sat on a stone chair by the street while staring stressfully into the sky.I wonder how did he find out about this? Out of a sudden, Della’s expression recoiled in fear when a thought flashed through her mind.Could it be that victim? Has she woken up in the hospital?
Without hesitation, Della jumped into her car and accelerated all the way to the hospital.
Not to her knowledge, Larry was overseeing her from inside the restaurant. A smile appeared on Larry’s face while he rose and left the restaurant slowly.If I’m not mistaken, she must be headed to the hospital.Thud! The ward’s door was kicked open forcefully. Della anxiously paced towards the bed and observed the woman lying on it. She shook the bed a few times, but the latter did not show any reaction.
“Wake up! I know you are conscious. Open your eyes now! I have something to ask you!” Della could no longer suppress her emotions as she started shaking the patient’s body rudely.
“Hey!” Someone shouted from the door.
“Who are you? What are you doing to my daughter? Don’t you dare touch her!” An older woman barged in and pushed Della aside.
“Answer me. Has your daughter woken up?” Della grabbed the older woman’s arm anxiously.
The older woman was astonished by her actions, but she soon resumed her normal expression. “Are you crazy? I would be the first to know if my daughter had wakened up. Get lost now!”Bam!The door was slammed shut and Della was left outside.
Della stared at the floor with her eyes filled with murderous instinct. I must not let her reveal anything! No way! She left a few moments later in a daze.
“Sweetie, who was that?” The older woman asked her daughter.
“Mom, remember that she is a bad person. Stay away from her.” The patient replied anxiously as she had no idea why Della showed up suddenly.Did Larry tell her something?
She turned and stared off into the distance out of the window. Her mind sank into deep contemplation.
At that moment, the door was swung open gently. A man walked in, while the older woman was obviously displeased with him.
“Mom, I am craving for meatloaf,” the daughter said before the older woman could open her mouth. The latter hesitated for a second and walked out of the ward.
“Did she come to find you?” Larry got to the point.
Hence, the atmosphere became awkward.
“Yes, she just left not long ago.” The patient replied softly in fear.
“Don’t worry. I won’t let her hurt you and your mother. Let me ask you something. Do you want to go overseas?” Larry’s blunt question caught her off guard.What is he thinking? Her face turned grim in an instant.
“If you’re willing, you can leave behind a recording of your testimony. Then I can send you and your mother overseas, using medical treatment as a reason,” Larry explained patiently.This sounds like a good idea. The patient’s expression started to relax, and she said hesitantly, “But I’m afraid that Ms. Duff…”
Larry knew exactly what was in her mind, and he fully understood her current concern. “Don’t worry, leave that to me.”
She finally let go of her tightly clenched fist. For my own life and my mother’s life, I need his help.
Later, Larry elaborated to her all the details of his plan.
After that, Larry walked right out of the ward. When he walked past one of the wards, his pace suddenly halted, as he heard a familiar voice from within.
“Come, take it easy.” Joan was handing a lunchbox over to Dustin who was lying in the bed. Her expression seemed extremely gentle.Why are they together? Why is Dustin in hospital, and why is Joan taking care of him? The more he thought of it the darker his expression grew.
Dustin initially intended to be discharged two days ago, but the doctor advised him to stay for observation for a few more days, and he complied.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 2780
Misunderstanding
“Joan, you can go back. I’m totally fine now, so don’t bother about me.” On the other hand, Dustin seemed somewhat eager for Joan to leave, as he would not want Larry to misunderstand if he found out.
“It’s fine. I would be bored at home too.” Joan replied with a faint smile.
In fact, she was trying to compensate him.
“Alright, you lie down for a while. I’ll go take some hot water.” Upon saying that, she grabbed the thermos flask. The second she stepped out of the ward, she noticed Larry standing not far away.
Joan’s face was filled with utter awkwardness instantly. “Larry, why are you here?”
Right. If I am not here, how would I find out that you’re with Dustin? What a joke! I work my heart out for you every day, yet you are taking care of another man. Such an irony!
“I came to visit that patron.” Larry pointed at the ward nearby.
“I see. She has not wakened.” Joan sounded desolate. In fact, she would check on that patron every day, but she did not know that she had actually wakened up.
“Is it?” Larry let out a smile. “I got to go. See you later.” Upon saying that, he turned to leave.
Staring at Larry’s back figure, Joan’s heart sank to the bottom. Forget it. I’ll explain to him later.
“Joan, was that Larry?” Back in the ward, Dustin asked in a low voice.
“Yes…”
“You should go and explain to him.”
Joan merely smiled stiffly without a word. Eventually, Joan did not explain it to Larry, and Larry never brought it out before her. Their life seemed normal like before; it was just that the topic between them became lesser and lesser.
“Mom!” The moment Lucius reached home, he hopped right into Joan’s embrace and kissed her chin deeply. “Mom, I miss you so much.”
Indeed, she had been busy taking care of Dustin these few days, and also trying hard to find new evidence. Naturally, she would not have enough time to care for her kid.
“Today I met Caiden again. He went to our school for some charity events.” Lucius started sharing his day excitedly. “When I grow up, I want to be like Caiden.”
Lucius was indeed a naive and honest kid. It was true that Caiden had been doing a lot of charities recently, which was one of the signs that he was doing well in his business.
“Mom, where’s Dad?” Lucius lifted his head to ask Joan.
“He’s working late.” He had been working late for three consecutive days. Maybe he doesn’t want to see me.
At the thought of this, a dark expression loomed over her face.
Back at Norton Corporation, the colleagues started leaving the company one after another. In the office, Caspian reminded Larry, “Larry, it’s nighttime already. Are you not going home?”
“Okay, got it. You can leave first.” Larry did not even lift his head.
Looking at Larry who was obsessed with his work, Caspian dared not interrupt him further.
Analyzing all the data on the documents, Larry knew that his fashion business was getting on the right track.
Not bad. All these designs are unique and suit the youngster’s style perfectly. His lips curled into a smile of satisfaction.
After a few days, Larry had finished arranging everything, including the recording.
“Are you there?”
“Yes, Mr. Norton. Don’t worry.”
The both of them exchanged a brief conversation and hung up. The person on the other end of the phone was the female victim who got poisoned previously.
On the other hand, in another ward, Joan and Abelyn were busy packing Dustin’s stuff.