Ch. 1471..1480

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1471

Locking Horns

“Probably a lapdog to her family? Haha…” All the students in the class burst out laughing upon seeing that.

As Vivian had been living abroad all this while, she found it hard to comprehend the language spoken locally. Hence, she could not understand their conversations, let alone deciphered what they were laughing at.

She stood there with a blank face until Kurt, whom she was looking for went to her. He stretched out his arms and covered both her ears with his hands.

“Kurt?”

“Let’s go,” he said indifferently.

After leaving the place, he put down his hands and habitually placed them in his pockets.

Seeing so, Vivian grabbed his arms and pulled them out of his pockets. Then, she gently held his with her delicate hands.

The boy was rendered speechless.

“Kurt, Uncle Solomon is here. Let’s head out to dine with him. He will help me handle the matter thereafter,” said Vivian.

“Sure.” Kurt did not refuse her. Instead, he allowed her to lead the way, holding his hands.

When they saw Solomon, he was in his car. Upon seeing the two young individuals, Solomon got out and opened the door to the back seat for them.

“Vivi, is this your little friend?” As the only adult present, Solomon posted a casual question with a smile as soon as he saw her.

Delighted, Vivian did not hesitate to make the introduction. “Yes, Uncle Solomon. This is Kurt, especially handpicked by Great-grandpa. He’s really intelligent. In a recent exam, he passed with flying colors and came out first in his grade.”

He’s that good, huh?

Solomon could not help but give the boy a once-over.

He realized that Kurt had been standing there quietly since moments ago. When their gazes met, the boy looked away and hung his head low.

He seems like a fine boy, though quite bashful and shy.

Solomon was quite relieved to see Vivian having a seemingly simple-minded and innocent friend. He never wanted her to hang around people with evil intentions. After all, Vivian grew up as everyone’s favorite, who was spoiled rotten by the entire family. Compared to Ichika, Vivian was even more naive and pure-hearted.

Subsequently, Solomon took the two children out for a meal.

As they were eating, Solomon noticed that Kurt had very good table manners and etiquettes unlike Vivian, who would gobble up her food.

Obediently, Kurt held the cutlery in style and chewed his food with his mouth closed. He seemed like a wonderful child.

Suddenly, Solomon’s phone rang.

“Hey Solomon, the person in charge from the school has contacted me a while ago. He said that we’re allowed to go see your niece’s work. Head over here soon, will you?”

“All right.” Solomon’s heart skipped a beat when he heard the news.

Vivian asked, “Is it sorted, Uncle Solomon?”

“Yup. Let’s finish up our lunch, and I’ll bring you to your teacher,” he replied.

Vivian was hesitant.

“She has a study session later, so she can’t get a leave,” the boy spoke in a nonchalant tone all of a sudden.

He did it so naturally that it startled Solomon, who turned and cast a gaze on him.

It’s my first time hearing him speak.

In the end, Solomon let it be. After taking the two kids back to school for their self-study session, he proceeded to the office building once again.

“Mr. George, this is the work submitted by your niece. Upon investigating, we regret to inform you that we’ve made a mistake. This isn’t actually her work.”

Surprised, he did not expect the person in charge to showcase Vivian’s work, let alone apologized for their fault.

Instantly, Solomon was enraged.

“So? That’s it? You’re just going to conclude this issue with a mere sentence? Did you know that my niece was deeply hurt by this incident? I purposely made a trip here to find out what was going on. Had I not done that, would my niece be expelled for no apparent reason?” he bombarded them with a series of questions furiously.

Immediately, the person in charge’s face turned scarlet.

“I’m terribly sorry, Mr. George. I didn’t know about this beforehand. We’ve just received an anonymous report, alleging that someone has tampered with the work. That’s how we discovered the truth. Mr. George, please let us know how we can compensate you. We promise to do our best to satisfy your request.”

“An anonymous report? By whom?” Upon hearing a key phrase, Solomon pursued further.

However, the person in charge did not explain clearly. He only mentioned that someone called up the school to expose the matter.

Additionally, he was informed that the rightful owner of the work was Vivian’s wealthy classmate. It was highly likely for that classmate to intentionally get someone to swap the work.

“Mr. George, Helena was always ranked first in class before Vivian’s arrival. Now that she’s no longer in the limelight, she might have responded to the situation negatively. Mr. George, it’s one of those pranks that the children pull on others. I’ll definitely educate Helena on this. However, I don’t recommend you take any action against her.”

“Why not?”

“This is because her father belongs to the royal family. If this matter gets out of hand, I’m afraid that your niece may suffer in school. Although I’m aware of Vivian’s powerful background, she’s now in Yartran. What do you think?” the person in charge reminded Solomon about the reality.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1472

Good News

Indeed, this isn’t our territory. No matter how powerful both the Hayeses and Jadesons are, they aren’t influential in this country. Making a big fuss out of this is not beneficial for Vivi at all, should she continue pursuing her education here.

In the end, Solomon held it in.

Nonetheless, he put forward a requirement, which was to amend Vivian’s results. Additionally, he also requested Helena to be transferred to a different class and to keep her parents informed about the incident.

The person in charge was shocked to the core.

Informing Helena’s parents is as good as sending her a stern warning. This is more severe than punishing the poor girl! What is he trying to do? Notifying the parents about Helena’s misbehavior without kicking up a fuss. Does he intend to drop a hint that Helena has messed with someone high and lofty?

Thereafter, Solomon left the office building.

“Luckily, your niece wasn’t present. Otherwise, it would hurt her deeply, knowing that her work was tampered with,” uttered Solomon’s friend.

He nodded in agreement.

That’s true. Vivi is just a simple girl. It’s a good thing that the boy brought her to the self-study session. It turns out to be a blessing in disguise.

Solomon stayed back that evening. The next morning, once he had confirmed personally that the school had amended Vivian’s marks and also presented an apology, he started making plans to leave.

“I love you so much, Uncle Solomon! I knew it! You will always find a way out.”

Holding her shiny trophy, the girl who had been proven innocent ran toward Solomon and hugged him tightly.

Solomon huffed a laugh in exasperation.

Upon scanning his surrounding, he spotted Kurt and called upon him.

“Kurt, you’re a reliable boy. Whenever you need anything, just give me a call.” Then, he whipped out a name card and handed it over.

Kurt reached out his hand and accepted it.

Though he did not say a word, the observant Solomon noticed that Kurt kept the name card properly in his pocket.

This boy!

Shortly after, Solomon left Yartran without forgetting to leave two men behind. Those men were the top fighters he trained in Jetroina.

Vivian paid full attention to her studies and continued learning enthusiastically. On the other hand, Elaine struggled a little even though the matter was now resolved.

Elaine finally brought herself to the pre-school building.

Actually, there was nothing much for Kurt to learn from an art academy. Therefore, Sebastian made Edmund put him in a regular class so that he can learn the other subjects like others.

Being in a regular class at the Royal Academy would have him learn extensively and abundantly, compared to an equivalent class back home.

When Elaine came over to look for Kurt, he was learning how to play the piano in the music room.

It was his most favorite thing to do recently.

Elaine stood by the door, listening to the rather choppy piano playing. Plucking up her courage, she called out, “Kurt…”

Fortunately for her, the boy stopped hitting the black and white keys when he heard his name.

“Kurt, I… I gave the teacher a call. I’m sorry, I… I didn’t keep my promise to speak up and tell everyone the truth. I was scared that I’d be barred from school.”

Seeing that he was completely silent, she was terrified. Tears started to well up in her eyes.

She had liked Kurt the moment she saw him at the airport. It was love at first sight because he was too good-looking.

Two months later, she realized that he was a nightmare dressed like a daydream. Even though he was younger than her and Vivian, he would always exude a hostile and cold aura.

His presence made her feel scared all the time.

“Kurt?”

“I’ll let this slide if you get transferred to Class 18 too,” he spoke his mind finally.

An icy tone laced his voice, sending a cold chill down Elaine’s spine. Although he spoke more this time, it made her turn ghastly.

“Class 18? That’s… That’s the same class as Helena? I…?”

Bang!

A pin-drop silence ensued as the boy shut the piano top and rose to his feet.

Elaine did not dare to say anything further. Helplessly, she could only watch him leave the room and disappear before her sight.

No, I don’t want to go to Class 18. Oh no…

Meanwhile, at Avenport, Ichika was over the moon when she heard that her husband had settled the matter perfectly.

She cooked up an array of dishes that night, and she even posted some photos on her social media.

Sabrina: Why are you cooking a feast, @Ichika? What’s the occasion?

Ichika: Huh? Nothing special…

Sasha: Is there any good news, Ichika? Share the joy with us.

Rufus: Really?

Devin: Still waiting…

Within seconds, almost everyone in the family engaged themselves in the chat, apart from Sebastian who rarely appeared online. They were looking forward to hearing some good news from her.

Turns out they are all eager about it…

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1473

alling Head Over Heels

Upon reading all the messages, Ichika blushed.

How could it be so soon? We just did it a few nights ago.

Feeling shy, she bowed her head and clarified via a text message: Nothing, really. It’s just a regular meal with my Darling. Don’t think too much, peeps.

Sabrina: How is that overthinking? It’s only normal that it happens. By the way, you two have been married for a while now. Aren’t you planning to have any kids?

Sabrina thought about her own experience and was very direct about it.

Back then, she had only slept with her man once before getting pregnant.

Then, there was no reply from Ichika.

Actually, both Ichika and Solomon had discussed the matter. They wanted nature to take its course. If they were blessed with a child, they would gladly keep the baby. Otherwise, they were happy to be by themselves.

However, it suddenly dawned on Ichika that it had been half a year since they had taken any precautions. Yet, she was never pregnant.

Could stress be a factor which contributed to this? Perhaps I was too overwhelmed when taking care of Nat?

Ichika grew uneasy thinking about it.

Meanwhile, Sasha who had just cleared all her work in Jadeborough joined in the conversation.

Sasha: Sab, how could you ask something so personal in a family chat group?

Sabrina: Why not? What’s wrong with that?

Sasha explained: It makes people feel uneasy. If there’s no news from a pair of newlyweds, they’re probably not planning to have a baby at the moment. What about you? Jaena is almost three now. When are you planning for a second child? I thought Devin was dropping hints here and there that he wanted another baby.

Out of the blue, the unexpected question made Sabrina feel so awkward.

A second child? This thought had never crossed her mind.

The little rascal tires me out on a daily basis. Now that she has finally turned three years old, I can’t wait to send her to preschool in the second half of the year. Don’t anyone dare bring up the topic of having a second child!

Sabrina paid no heed to the message.

In the afternoon, she brought Jaena along to the military base to deliver Devin some homecooked lunch. When she was there, she caught Devin frolicking with a colleague’s baby.

“Come on, smile! Give me a nice one, please?”

There was a sparkle in his eyes when he caressed the baby’s chubby cheeks with his fingers. His gaze was filled with tender loving care.

“Lieutenant Colonel Jadeson, since you like kids so much, why don’t you and your wife bear one more? Your daughter is already three. It’s time you give her another sibling.”

“It’s okay. It’s too tiring for her to take care of the kiddo. We can stick with having only one child.”

The honest and caring man rejected the idea immediately, leaving Sabrina speechless.

At that moment, she felt something bugging her and a strong urge to cry.

Later that night, they routinely had dinner and put Jaena to sleep. When Sabrina returned to the bedroom, she made it a point to address the man who was working hard at the desk.

“Darling, I’m going to take a shower.”

“Sure, go ahead.”

Devin was quite occupied lately as he had to plan a combat drill for the new soldiers who had been receiving training for a while now.

Devin continued making strategic plans on his laptop. Suddenly, an alluring scent caught him by surprise. Stunned, he removed his gaze from his laptop screen and looked ahead, only to see his woman standing before him.

However, she was not wearing her usual pajamas.

Conversely, she put on a satin black nightdress with super hot shorts. Her fair and long legs were out on display. In the dim light, she looked exceptionally attractive to him.

“Darling, why… why are you wearing this tonight?”

“Hmm?” Sabrina turned her head while fluffing the duvet.

“Oh, this? It’s much cooling. I bought this when I went shopping with Sasha two days ago. Do I look good in it?”

Seeing that the busy man had noticed her new nightie, she gave up fluffing the bed and strode toward him.

Devin was holding his breath.

Staring at her figure, he could not resist her. As she approached him, he pulled her into his embrace and sat her on his lap.

“Ah!” she shouted. “Darling, what are you doing?”

“Didn’t you do this on purpose? Don’t you know that I’ve been suppressing my urge for a very long time? Are you planning to let me devour you right before I go on a work trip?” he asked with a coarse voice while running his arms around her slender waist.

Sabrina was at a loss for words.

Nope, that’s not my intention.

Anyhow, she achieved success when playing with fire. Subsequently, she was carried by her man to the bed.

As he was turning off the lights, a question sounded, “Hold on a second… It’s not your safe week, is it? Let me go get what we need.”

A pair of gentle hands pulled him back, followed by an amorous kiss. Gradually, she became more proactive, resulting in him plunging deeper into the sea of fiery passion. They were both lost in each other.

When Sabrina woke up feeling exhausted the following day, the man was already gone.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1474

Could Not Be Offended

“Ms. Sabrina, Mr. Jadeson has left for the military base. He mentioned that he’ll be back in a few days’ time. Should you feel bored at home, please feel free to visit Oceanic Estate,” a housemaid relayed the message to her upon seeing that she was up.

Oceanic Estate again?

Sabrina was rather reluctant to do so. After all, she wished that it would not feel so lonesome at home each time Devin left for work.

After getting up, she made her bed. Then, she carried her child in one arm, picked up her handbag with another, put on her shades and headed out in her stilettos.

Half an hour later, she arrived at Moonlight Bar located in the city.

“Sabrina, you…”

Riley had been manning the bar through the night till dawn. Right when she was about to close it, an upset woman showed up at the entrance with a child.

Sabrina removed her sunglasses and questioned, “What’s wrong? As the owner of the bar, am I not welcome here?”

Riley answered, “I don’t have an opinion on that. However, it’s not exactly the best thing to do for you to keep heading here with the child. Remember that one time when you were caught red handed by my brother? He’s going to give me an earful if he finds out!”

Her brother was none other than Edmund.

Apparently, Sabrina could not bear idling around when she returned to Jadeborough. Hence, she opened a bar.

Due to her lack of experience in this area, Sabrina engaged Edmund’s help, knowing that he had always been involved in similar business back in Yorksland. From operating bars to casinos, he knew it all.

Her original intention was to either sink or swim together.

“He should mind his own business. Open the door, would you? Let me see the sales from last night. Oh, by the way, do you still have sufficient liquor? Anything to restock?” Sabrina insisted.

Just like that, she presented her demands, and there was hardly any room for discussion.

Annoyed, Riley acquiesced in her decision and ended up opening the door obediently for her.

Sabrina had a domineering aura by nature. Even though they were both heiresses of two wealthy families, Sabrina had a stronger presence when compared to Riley.

Meanwhile, Edmund was actually going nuts about a series of data at work when he got the news.

Bang! As soon as he received the unpleasant updates, he flung his pen on the desk.

“Mr. Cooper, are you okay? Any problems with the data?” concerned, a colleague sitting beside him raised his head and asked right away.

It was nothing new to see Edmund getting irritated ever since he was transferred to the Audit Department a year ago. He had been often challenged by the complicated numbers and statistics review.

Isn’t he an accounting graduate? Why would he get headaches when facing numbers?

Seeing that his veins were bulging, his colleagues decided to lend a hand.

Yet, Edmund shut his computer down.

“I need to get a breather. Call me if anything.” He left upon saying so, leaving his colleagues at a loss for words.

That’s what we get when our status is different. Well, he’s the son of the former Senate Speaker, Benedict Cooper. Although his father has passed on, people here still show him respect.

Edmund left his company for Moonlight Bar.

Upon arrival, he caught a child running out of the premises, ignoring her mother’s yelling from afar. The little kid was dressed in a dungaree and a barret.

“Stand right there, Jaena Jadeson! Put that bottle down, you little rascal!”

The corner of Edmund’s eyes twitched when he saw what the munchkin was holding in her arms, an important premium liquor which easily cost hundreds of thousands!

“Eh?”

Jaena lugged the wine bottle all the way to the entrance. When she realized that she was blocked by a towering figure, she stopped and looked up.

“Daddy Cooper? Why are you here? You weren’t here just now, were you?” she asked naively while blinking her bright eyes, which looked identical to her father’s.

The corner of Edmund’s eyes twitched even harder. Yet, his heart was totally melted by the sweet voice calling him “Daddy Cooper”.

Bending down, he gazed at the little naughty girl. “Yup, I just came down from the sky. I saw that you’ve angered your mom. Thus, I’m here to teach you a lesson.”

Hmm?

Gradually, she released her grip on the wine bottle.

“I didn’t upset Mommy. I wanted to put this in the car and then transport it to her.

“Car?” Edmund was baffled.

The little girl hurriedly pointed toward his back. “Yeah, look! That’s what Daddy bought for me. The new car can carry many items. I think it can fetch you around too, Daddy Cooper.”

What? Man, that’s truly something else when you’re born with a silver spoon in your mouth. She’s only three years old, but her toy car is so flashy. This probably costs tens of thousands!

In the end, Edmund felt obliged to fulfill the little munchkin’s request, which was to place the bottle in the trunk of her new ride. Subsequently, he got into the car, and let the little dearie take him for a spin around the bar.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1475

Taboo

Moments later, Edmund walked into the bar.

Sabrina immediately confronted him, “Are you crazy? Why are you fooling around with a child?”

Edmund rebutted, “Didn’t you gift her this car? I’m certain that you’re the one who have lost your mind.”

They could never have a decent conversation.

Seeing all these, Riley was gloating within.

Keep it going! It’s best they have a fallout and cut off ties on bad terms. Perhaps, the Coopers might inherit the bar if that happens. And I will stand a chance to rise on top.

Unfortunately, the two were back to normal after a usual quarrel.

“How much did you make last night?”

“Over five hundred thousand. After deducting the cost, the gross profit is less than half,” Sabrina frowned as she reported the earnings she had just tabulated.

Riley stood by the side and scoffed at them.

With a net profit of two hundred over thousand within one night, a month’s earning would easily hit six million. What else does she want?

What was more astounding to her was that her brother was equally dissatisfied.

“Right. For a location like this, the regular daily revenue should achieve at least a million.”

“Shall we invest in other things?” Sabrina was fishing for new ideas while giving him an inquisitive look.

However, the man sneered. “I’m fine with anything. After all, it’s my forte. Haven’t I told you that there are plenty of options? There’s no problem with me as long as you’re able to convince your man.”

His response shut her up because she knew exactly what he was trying to hint at her.

Convince Devin? Hmph! He didn’t even agree to me opening up a bar. As a wife to an honorable leader in the military, I should really pick the type of business I want to do.

Hence, Moonlight Bar was registered under Sebastian’s name.

Should I venture into something else? Gambling? Or hire a few pole dancers?

In the end, Sabrina rolled her eyes at Edmund and left thereafter.

When Edmund was about to leave the bar, Riley stopped him.

“Did you sneak out from work again? Edmund, are you aware that it’s mid-year now? The employee performance review for the Audit Department is just around the corner. There’s a slim chance you’ll be promoted if you keep behaving this way.”

“Haha…”

As soon as she started giving him a piece of her mind, Edmund’s expression turned strangely cold.

“Why don’t you go for it since you’re so keen?”

“You…” Riley could not find the words to refute him.

Indeed, she was anxious.

Since the passing of their father, the Coopers struggled to keep themselves together. Although the Jadesons had been very gracious not to reveal the truth behind Benedict’s death, their family was loathed by the people in Jadeborough.

Therefore, Edmund became their only hope when he landed himself a career with the government.

Furious, Riley’s eyes turned bloodshot.

“Edmund, I know you couldn’t care less about this job, and neither are you concerned about the Coopers. But Dad had never ill-treated you when he was alive despite all of the bad things he had committed. You lived a far better life compared to your three sisters. Can’t you just pick yourself up and do better for his sake?”

Edmund remains silent.

“It doesn’t matter to me nor my two younger sisters because we’ll eventually marry into new families, be it good or bad ones. We won’t carry the Cooper’s last name forever. However, you’re different. You will forever be a Cooper. Think about that for the sake of your children and even grandchildren whether you like it or not. Do you want them to live a life like ours? To be forever hated?”

She broke down into tears.

Within the Coopers, Riley was one of the more understanding individuals. She was the type who would plan ahead with a vision. This was also the reason why Edmund could easily enter the Cooper residence soon after Benedict died.

Riley was well aware that her stepbrother was their last hope upon losing their father.

Edmund had nothing to say. He waited till Riley was about to leave before heading toward his workplace.

Seeing so, Riley heaved a sigh of relief.

After closing the bar, she went home, only to find her home-alone mother lamenting. Her sisters were nowhere to be seen.

“What’s wrong, Mom? Why are you always sighing?” Riley asked.

Gabriella responded, “Nothing, I’m just thinking when will days like these end. Though your brother has got a job now with the government, his salary isn’t much. How is that enough to cover all the expenses?”

She continued, “Oh, should we matchmake him with a good family? What about those from the Senate? This way, we can ride along and have a better life.”

Gabriella started scheming.

Riley’s face fell when she heard that.

“Mom, do you think that the situation we’re in now isn’t troubled enough? He’s just starting to settle down in the department, and here you are, asking for another round of tussle. Let me warn you that you’re going to beg on the streets if you piss him off!”

Feeling indignant, she lashed out on her mother.

Yes, no one in the entire Cooper family should irritate Edmund. Otherwise, none of us will live to see the daylight.

Riley knew him too well. There might be room for discussion if it concerns other matters. Marriage is taboo. He’s extremely reticent about his personal affairs.

She had prepared herself to accept the fact that he only wanted to give his all to that woman.

As long as he rebuilds the family name, I’ll never ever use marriage to threaten him and put him in an emotional quandary.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1476

Is There A Bun In The Oven

The following day, Sabrina brought Jaena back to Oceanic Estate.

“Mark? You’re here today? Is there anything?”

She was surprised to see Mark because he had not been showing up at the estate ever since Jonathan retired.

Mark grinned. “Nothing much. I’m just here to accompany Old Mr. Jadeson for a hike.”

By hiking, he meant they were making a trip to Aquene Temple.

Tilting her head, Sabrina thought about her plan for the day. “Then, please bring her along.” She pointed at the little munchkin who had run outside to the garden to play.

“Huh?” Mark was amused.

In the end, both Jonathan and Mark took the little girl along with them.

It had become Jonathan’s habit a year ago to take a trip to the mountains. Though Shin remained a hermit, Jonathan would often pay him a visit.

Sometimes, they would have tea together. Other times, he felt contented just being able to stop by and see Shin.

Now that Jaena was gone, Sabrina finally had some free time to herself.

“What are you up to, Sasha? I need a favor.”

“Hmm?” Sasha turned and asked. She was at the storeroom doing inventory and allocating goods for to different parts of the house.

“What about, Sab?”

Considering how busy Sasha was, sweating profusely while having her hands full, Sabrina decided not to bring up her question.

She pressed her lips. “Forget it, we’ll talk when you’re done. What are you doing? Are these things going to The Ataraxy and Gossamer Creek?”

“Yup. It’s almost summer now. If we don’t find them some work to do, they would end up asking from Oceanic Estate.”

Sasha got all worked up when she talked about them.

Since that dreadful incident, the people who remain in the Jadeson family are all too weak. Colton’s family and Connor’s two children are the only ones left in The Ataraxy.

As for Gossamer Creek, it’s never been exceptional. When Lexi was still around, he would lead them in some projects. Now, they are heavily relying on Oceanic Estate for assistance.

Sabrina knew that too. She was equally displeased with the current situation.

“What a bunch of rotten apples! I’ve got no idea why Grandpa insists on keeping them? Isn’t it better to leave them to die?”

“He values family relationship, especially the root of the Jadesons. Well, he does have good intentions.”

Sasha let out a huge sigh before continuing the work.

She had been terribly disturbed by this matter recently.

Ever since Sebastian took over the two military factories owned by the Jadesons, he managed to turn things around successfully and quadrupled the revenues.

Unfortunately, there were still a group of useless peeps within the family, receiving and not contributing at all. Sasha was very much affected by them.

“Hey, why don’t they go work at my bar? What do you think, Sasha? Why didn’t I think of this earlier? I’m here today because I wanted to consult you about the poor business at my bar. I thought of picking your brain for ideas. Let’s plan around this, create a couple more projects and expand the business. Then, we can recruit these idling souls as manpower. What do you think?”

Folding her arms across her chest, Sabrina’s eyes lit up all of a sudden at the thought.

Sasha froze for a second.

That’s right! Why didn’t I think about this?

Instantly, she tossed the items in her hands away and exited the warehouse. The two ladies started strategizing as they took a stroll in the garden.

Shortly after, Sasha texted the family chat group: Is everyone here? I’ve got something that I need to seek your advice.

Sebastian: What is it?

It was everyone’s first time seeing him replying in a flash.

Sabrina: Well, we discussed this briefly at noon. There are way too many unwanted resources at the Jadeson residence, so we’ve decided to find a better use for all of them.

Both Devin and Jonathan were left speechless.

What’s up with these two ladies and their baffling idea? Why should a reputable family like the Jadesons do that?

In the end, Rufus chimed in to appease the situation.

Rufus:

Hold your horses and tell us more about what you have in mind.

Sabrina kept quiet.

Sasha: We’re trying to come up with something that benefits Sab’s bar. Currently, we have the intention to venture into hotel management and the entertainment industries. Does anyone have anything else to suggest?

Solomon: Hotel is better. Make it unique. You can look into food and beverage too, it comes in a package. Additionally, you can create a themed restaurant, one that showcases local culture.

Ichika: Wow! Izakaya! Japanese cuisine!

Ichika suddenly appeared in the chat group and shared her two cents excitedly. Everyone could tell that she was so thrilled.

Sabrina’s eyes gleamed.

Sabrina: Bingo! Why didn’t I think of that? That’s it, let’s do that. We can transform the bar into an izakaya. Oh boy, I don’t think there’s one here yet. And the cuisine too! Hahaha…

Even through the screen, one could imagine how she chortled boisterously at her own message.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1477

The Coopers Are Doomed

All the men fell silent.

The development of the conversations implied that the three females were about to gather and chat more.

Old memories from that one time they went to a hot spring came back to haunt the guys. They remembered vividly how terrifying it was to be controlled by the ladies.

Apart from that awful experience, Solomon was also fearful of being alone at home should his beau left for Jadeborough.

No doubt leading a reclusive life was nothing new to him, he was a changed person ever since he had tasted the goodness of having such a wonderful company.

He could not imagine how dejected he would be if that much-needed beam of sunshine were to disappear from his life.

Hence, Solomon felt rather gloomy for the rest of the afternoon.

When he got home in the evening, the woman at home rushed out excitedly just as he had expected.

“Darling, I’m heading to Jadeborough. Are you okay with that?”

Well, can I say no?

Seeing that she had already packed her luggage, he paused for a bit before responding. “Are you planning on becoming a shareholder? Or you’re just going to share your knowledge with them?”

“Needless to say, I opted to teach them. How can I keep staying in Jadeborough? Darling, don’t you want me by your side?”

Taken aback by his question, Ichika blinked her eyes, feeling aggrieved.

Solomon said nothing. What a silly girl!

Heaving a sigh of relief, he decided to cook a sumptuous meal for his wife that night.

Ichika had always idolized her husband blindly. She was so moved when she saw how lavish dinner was. Thrilled, she applauded in support.

“Mmm… It’s so delicious, Darling! You’re fantastic! I’ve never tasted these before.”

Although she was a bit exaggerated, he gladly received her kind words as compliments.

In between dinner and bedtime, Solomon personally packed some daily necessities and clothes for Ichika.

“So… If you feel unwell or need anything, remember to give me a call.”

“Huh?”

She was resting her head on his chest. Upon hearing his sudden reminder, she propped her head up and stared at him in the dark.

“Why would I feel unwell? Darling?” She was clueless.

Instead of responding, he embraced her and then caressed her flat tummy with his big palm.

Is there a bun in the oven?

“Darling?” she muttered coquettishly while burying her head in his arms.

A conversation was unnecessary at that point. Solomon went with the flow and started his amorous advances by pinning her beneath him.

Regardless, we’ll get there if we keep trying.

Then, it was a night of passion for the duo.

Three days later, the three ladies from the Hayes family gathered at Sabrina’s bar—all ready to take on the world.

Edmund briefly heard about it. Hence, he sneaked out from work again.

“Are you ladies for real? How can this be?”

Edmund almost fell from his chair when he witnessed how the trio had started working on renovating the bar. With conflicting emotions, he was impressed, yet astonished.

Sabrina scoffed, “Definitely! Did you think that I was joking? By the way, Mr. Cooper, we need a budget of ten million. Are you investing?”

What?

Edmund froze for a good ten seconds as he stared right into her eyes. Subsequently, he reprimanded her, “Do I look like an idiot to you, Sabrina? This project needs ten million?”

“That’s right, ten million. If you have it, please invest. Otherwise, get lost,” Sabrina cut to the chase.

Edmund almost fainted from his fit of anger.

Moments later, Sasha strode toward them with the hope of easing the tension in the air. She consoled the man, “Don’t listen to her. A capital of two million is all that is required from you. We’ll stick to the current share distribution.”

“That’s more like it.” Edmund calmed down upon hearing that.

Right when he was about to transfer the funds using his phone, Sasha cast him a look, seemingly thinking about something.

“You don’t need to fork out anything yet. Let Sab foot the bill for renovation. You keep your money to purchase the goods for the opening and use it as cash flow. It’s more organized this way, don’t you think?”

Keeping quiet, Edmund stared at her blankly.

How should I answer this question? This doesn’t seem like a fair deal to all of them. How can I not contribute a penny when there’s a huge refurbishment going on?

Keeping the funds to ease the cash flow later? Will they actually use my money then? Once we start operating this entertainment business, the ins and outs of funds will be massive.

Edmund paled at that thought.

“Are you looking down on me? Do you think that I don’t have the money?”

“No, no, please don’t misunderstand me. I was just thinking that you might need to prioritize your resources because I heard that your sister is getting married soon. You should go ahead and prepare the dowry. Other matters are all secondary. We’ll be fine,” Sasha justified herself instantly. She was worried that he might have misinterpreted her good intentions.

In fact, she did take the Coopers’ financial situation into account before proposing so.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1478

Is It Worth It

Edmund was still rooted to the spot when Sasha left. Everyone was occupied. Nobody paid extra attention to him, and neither did anyone notice when he walked out of the bar.

The next few days, Riley did not show up at the bar because something happened at the Coopers.

Her youngest sister was knocked up by a man. Consequently, she had to get hitched soonest possible.

“Riley, I can’t marry into his family just like that. We should demand for a house and a car at the very least. Otherwise, it’s downright humiliating for me. How am I supposed to stand up for myself in his family?”

“Yeah, she’s right! Nothing lesser than that,” Gabriella chimed in.

Riley went ballistic and retorted her sister, “Is that all you care about? Do you think you have the cheek to make demands after having premarital sex and getting pregnant? The Coopers are now a laughing stock because of you. Yet, all that you can think of now is wanting a house and a flashy car?”

How she wished she could knock some sense into her!

Why do we have such a twisted mentality in the Coopers?

Ironically, her sister did not feel sorry at all. Conversely, she failed to recognize her mistake and behaved even more ridiculously.

“Yes, I’m the black sheep of the family. But, how is this my fault? Dad passed away without leaving us with anything, causing others to despise us. I was just trying to find a good family to depend on for the sake of giving the Coopers a better life.”

“You…” Riley was so furious that her body started shaking from anger.

In the end, Gabriella had to separate her two daughters. She pulled Riley into her room.

“Riley, that man has a decent family background. His father works at the Naval Force. Though his position isn’t very high, a family as such is considered above average. Do you remember Desmond Croll? He too climbed the social ladder step by step and raised to the top eventually,” Gabriella advised her daughter earnestly.

Rubbing her palms, Riley had no choice but to agree to the marriage. She closed her eyes, trying to suppress her displeasure.

“Fine, I got it. I’ll find a way to sort out the dowry. It’s best you stay at home and monitor her. Don’t let her mess things up any further.”

She left the room right away.

A house and a car…

According to the standards of living in Jadeborough, these would cost approximately five to six million at the very minimum. For a family like the Coopers who were already struggling to make ends meet, it was almost impossible to have a wedding ceremony.

Bothered by financial quandary, Riley arrived at a nightclub.

“Oh hey, it’s Ms. Cooper! What brings you here today? Didn’t you swear not to return again?” the lady boss at the nightclub mocked her.

Clenching her teeth, Riley endured the jeer. She used up all of the energy that she had left to prevent her from running away.

“I’m sorry, Ms. Malvich. I was too ignorant last time. Could you please… contact the client once more? I can keep him company tonight. However, I hope the price can be raised further to five million.”

She dug her sharp nails right into her palm when she spoke the last sentence.

Five million? Geri was amused and nearly burst out laughing.

A down and out socialite who is no longer a young and fine girl is asking for five million? What gives? Who does she think she is?

Geri hesitated for a moment. As soon as she recalled how filthy rich the client was, she started plotting to her advantage.

“Sure, I promise you. Can you start working now?”

“O-okay…” Riley shut her eyes and nodded her head quickly. Then, she entered the nightclub.

Later that evening, Edmund noticed the absence of Riley when he got home. On the contrary, he realized that Gabriella and his two stepsisters looked exceptionally cheerful.

They were all browsing some brochures from a real estate company. There were also several car magazines in their hands.

“You’re back?” Gabriella greeted him as soon as he stepped foot into the house.

After sweeping a cold gaze over her, Edmund headed to his bedroom straight away.

“Why is he acting like he’s a big deal? He will soon kneel before me and plead for my help once I’m married,” the youngest of his three ladies proclaimed proudly.

“Just ignore him. Let’s continue with our selection,” another one urged.

Edmund did not hear what they said. When he came out from the shower, it was already nine in the evening.

Buzz… Buzz…

“Hello?”

“Hi, Mr. Cooper. I was at the nightclub, and I think I saw your sister being dragged away. Do you want to come over?”

It was his colleague.

Frowning, he was oblivious to the concept of having a sister. He blurted, “What sister? Who?”

His colleague replied, “Riley Cooper. I’m certain that she was crying when the old man took her away. I’m afraid something might have happened…”

Slap! He slammed the phone.

Coincidentally, the weather turned gloomy. A bolt of lightning flashed in between the clouds, illuminating the bedroom through the window.

Riley? No wonder I had a feeling that someone was missing when I was downstairs.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1479

Something Unheard Of

By the time Edmund got to that old man’s villa, he could hear Riley screaming frantically from upstairs.

“No! Don’t do this to me, Mr. Spencer. I’m only here to test the wine for you, nothing else. Stop please, or I’ll call up the police.”

“Test the wine?” a disgusting voice asked.

“Ms. Cooper, who is willing to spend six million on you just for testing out the wine? Are you made of gold? Let me be honest with you, it’s because you’re a Cooper. If it was someone else, I wouldn’t give her this price, even if the person is a virgin.”

Cackling hideously, he attempted to jump on poor Riley again, causing her to shriek in fear.

“No… No, it can’t be! That’s not what Ms. Malvich told me. Last time, she mentioned it’s for wine tasting. She didn’t… she didn’t say anything else…”

“It clearly shows that she’s tricked you. Wine tasting? True that. I’m the wine. Come on over and enjoy.”

Staying downstairs, Edmund could hear the commotion going on. He furrowed his brows in rage.

Without hesitation, he went back to his car and fetched himself a baseball bat.

Within minutes, the terrified woman on the first floor had been slapped across the face, laying on the bed feeling devastated.

Bang! Suddenly, the door was kicked open, and Edmund darted into the room.

The moment he saw the big, fat, and ugly man pinning himself against Riley, he swung the bat in his hands and smashed it into his head.

Thump!

The old man collapsed on the floor without a sound.

Riley was totally shocked to the core. She was still trying to process what had just happened. A familiar face dashed into the room and beat up Roger.

After what seemed like an eternity, tears started rolling down from the corner of her eyes.

Initially, Edmund wanted to lash it out on her because he felt humiliated by the stupid old man.

Why would the Coopers resort to committing such dirty acts to gain a living? Is she that shameless or am I that useless?

He clenched his jaw as a menacing look flashed across his eyes. Seeing her split lip and sorrowful wailing, he withheld his pent-up anger.

A few minutes later, he carried the woman downstairs and to the car.

“Edmund, please… don’t tell anyone about this,” she pleaded upon struggling to string her words into a sentence.

By then, she had calmed down. Sitting in the car, she fidgeted with the jacket which he used to cover her up.

“Hmph!” he scoffed with disdain, just as she had expected.

“Riley, who do you think you are? Mother Theresa? Did Benedict write explicitly in his will that you should shoulder the burden of each and every useless being in the Cooper family?”

Shutting her eyes tightly, she could not respond at all. Her face turned pale and tears were gleaming on her lashes.

His words were like a sharp needle, piercing through her heart mercilessly.

“No, but Dad is no longer here. As the eldest child, I just feel that I’m obliged to take care of all of you. This is my responsibility. I can’t allow the family members to go separate ways.”

Edmund was flabbergasted.

What? Taking care of me? She’s only a few years my senior and want to take care of me?

Looking away, he snorted in disbelief.

“You are just being silly. They aren’t little kids anymore who need your tender loving care. What are their hands and feet for?” he refuted. However, his tone became much gentle.

Upon hearing that, Riley’s eyes turned red.

What he said is true. But, what can I do? My two sisters are like that.

“I don’t have a way out. This is the reality. All that I can do for her is to ensure that she gets a decent wedding. I don’t want people to comment on her that she has lost her dignity just because she’s pregnant before getting married. I don’t want to see that she can’t even keep her chin up.”

“She very well deserves it!” Edmund hit the ceiling after hearing her justification.

“She’s an adult. Why should you bear the consequences of her foolishness when a twenty plus years old person like her couldn’t behave herself? Let me tell you, Riley. I’ve never planned to give her a single dime. She has only two options. First, abort the child. Second, leave the house and cut off ties with the Coopers!” he enunciated each of the words spoken.

At that moment, all of his suppressed rage over the years manifested like an incredible hulk.

Indeed, how could anyone forget that he was a good-for-nothing spoiled brat? One who was infamous for being ruthless and brutal in Jadeborough. Technically, he was second to none in that aspect.

Riley dared not utter another word.

Thereafter, the duo returned to the Cooper residence.

It was a dramatic irony for them to enter a house with a pin-drop silence after experiencing an overwhelming incident.

Gabriella and her two other daughters were already in bed, sleeping soundly.

Disappointed, Riley’s face turned ashen while hanging her head low.

Edmund said nothing more besides asking a housemaid to usher her back to the room.

Then, he slumped on the couch. Crossing his legs, he commanded, “Get Violet here, now!”

“Yes, Mr. Cooper.”

An old housemaid, who was still serving the family, hurriedly went upstairs.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1480

An Illegitimate Child

Violet was annoyingly awakened in the middle of the night.

“What the heck do you want, old fart? I’m sleeping! Moreover, I’m pregnant. If something happens to me, I won’t spare you.”

She yelled so loud that the entire household could hear her.

The old housemaid bowed her head. “I’m sorry, Ms. Violet. Mr. Cooper… asks for you.”

Mr. Cooper? That illegitimate child?

Reluctantly, Violet dragged herself downstairs in her pajamas.

Meanwhile, Gabriella heard the noise and got out of her bedroom on the first floor too.

When the both of them arrived at the living room, they saw a man with his legs crossed and a lit cigarette in between his fingers. Looking grim, his face contorted in wrath, sending shivers down their spines.

“Um… Is there anything?”

The observant Gabriella could sense that something was very off. Thus, she asked softly.

Violet remained quiet.

Edmund snickered at the pair of mother and daughter. “Nope. I’ve called a doctor to bring her to the hospital and get rid of what’s in her belly.”

“What did you say?” Violet lost her temper.

“What’s this about, Edmund? What right do you have to do that to my baby? It’s mine. What’s it got to do with you?” she yelled at the top of her lungs.

She was very close to calling him a bast*rd and stating that he was in no position to meddle with the affairs of the Coopers.

What a mutt!

“Are you unwilling to do so? Fine. Let’s talk about the second option then. From now on, leave the Cooper residence. Whatever that you do henceforth, be it getting married or slacking off your whole life, it no longer matters to the Coopers,” Edmund went straight to the point.

Violet was shocked.

“Who do you think you are to shoo me out of the house? I’m a real Cooper, unlike you, an illegitimate child! Do you know where you stand?”

“I sure do. Everyone else regards me, the illegitimate child, as the man of the house whereas the rest of you are the parasites in the family. Is this reason strong enough for you?”

Casting the cigarette ashes aside, Edmund said placidly without showing any rage.

However, each word spoken struck that woman like a slap in the face, one after another.

Instantly, her face turned ugly, and she could not rebut him at all.

“Just you wait, Edmund! I won’t let this go.”

In the midst of her fury, Violet said, “Just you wait, Edmund! I won’t let this go.” Subsequently, she proudly left the house in her pajamas.

Seeing that, Gabriella became worried and anxious.

On the contrary, Edmund was extremely delighted that the biggest parasite in the family had decided to leave.

With that, he called it a day and went back to his room.

The next morning, Riley found out about the incident.

Her heart sank right there and then, but she chose to turn a blind eye this time.

Unexpectedly, the old housemaid approached her.

“Ms. Riley, this is your plane ticket. Mr. Cooper has instructed me to book you the flight at noon to Yorksland. I think you need to pack up soon.”

“What?” Riley was super surprised.

Yorksland? Why does he want me to go there out of the blue?

She had not the slightest idea about this.

Meanwhile, Edmund arrived at Oceanic Estate, looking for Sebastian early in the morning. What a rare occasion!

Sasha asked, “You are… looking for him? Did something happen?”

Astounded, she assumed that the Coopers had some financial problems.

At that time, Sebastian came down from upstairs. When he saw his guest, he uttered placidly, “No worries, dear. We’ll be at the observation tower. Please bring us some tea.”

“Oh, sure!”

Since her husband did not show much response, Sasha went away.

Moments later at the observation tower…

The best time to visit the tower was during sunrise when the morning sun gradually emerged from the horizon and navigated itself to the sky. As its dazzling ray beamed down on the vast ocean, it illuminated the ripples, creating a magnificent sparkly effect on its surface.

Sebastian picked his seat and then cleared the items on the table.

Edmund sat opposite him.

“Sebastian, I’m here today to ask about my… assets. Can I access them?”

“What’s up? Need money?” Wearing a poker face, Sebastian gazed at him.

Feeling rather uneasy, Edmund replied, “Well, not quite. It’s just that… Um… It’s been more than a year now. I just wanted to know when can I have them? Is it time yet?”

While explaining briefly, his eyes flickered, revealing the fact that he did have a hidden agenda he was yet to talk about.

The assets parked under the family name of Cooper were actually acquired by Sebastian from Jetroina. Back then, he advised Edmund not to touch it, especially when there was chaos in the family recently. The Jadesons protected Benedict for the sake of Edmund, in order to shield him from Eddie.

Due to that, there was a need for him to stash away the money and assets he had attained when he was with Eddie.