Ch. 1521..1530
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1521
You Have A Problem
They had sought out the Zander family hoping that Edmund could have a better life.
At the same time, if anything happened to Edmund to the extent of involving the Jadeson family, the Zander family would naturally be punished.
Other than breaking into a cold sweat on her forehead, Tillie couldn’t find the words to respond.
She was cognizant that nothing could escape Sasha’s eye.
Consequently, Tillie lost her appetite for the rest of the evening.
All she did was sit at the table in silence while watching everyone else chat the night away.
It wasn’t until everyone was leaving after dinner that she stood up from her chair and walked awkwardly out of the private room.
“Mrs. Hayes, c-can I speak to you for a moment?”
When she saw Sasha’s figure being led out by Sebastian, she felt as if Sasha was a piece of driftwood in the middle of the ocean. Gritting her teeth, she caught up with Sasha.
Meanwhile, Edmund furrowed his eyebrows when he heard what she said.
Why does she love to ingratiate herself with others so much?
Unexpectedly, Sasha stopped in her tracks.
A short while later, both ladies were standing by the railing as they chatted by the hotel corridor.
“Mrs. Hayes, I would like to ask you something. With regards to what you said just now, do I still have a chance to be a capable wife if I want to?”
“Hmm?”
The question caught Sasha by surprise.
Is she throwing back the question at me? It seems Ms. Zander isn’t a fool at all. Instead, she is extremely shrewd. She even demands to know whether she has a chance to redeem herself when she has obviously done something wrong. If I don’t agree, is she going to continue with her evil deeds?
Suddenly, Sasha was infuriated by her attitude.
“Mrs. Cooper, just based on what you just said, I don’t think you do.”
“Why?”
Tillie’s expression changed instantly. Staring at Sasha with her face white as a sheet, she didn’t even know what she did wrong.
I have done my best, isn’t it?
Soon, Sasha, Jadeborough’s most powerful lady, reprimanded her.
“Ms. Zander, don’t you realize that your entire attitude is wrong? Instead of asking me a question, you are pressuring me. Did you feel the same way when you poisoned Sabrina? Just because you didn’t get what you want, you decided to blame it on someone else?”
“I…”
Standing there, Tillie was lost for words, as that was what exactly went through her mind.
Unknown to her, her environment had, over the years, molded her character into one that was extreme.
Consequently, this trait caused her to be filled with hatred and the tendency to blame others for her own mistakes.
“Ms. Zander, actually, you have an inherently kind character. I can clearly see it from how you took care of Sabrina and the fact that you stopped me. I don’t know what sort of environment you grew up in, but if you really want to stay by Edmund’s side, you will have to change. You will need to do away with your narrow-mindedness and your extreme character.”
She then continued, “In this world, no one owes you anything. You blame Sabrina for the fact that Edmund mistreats you, which is ridiculous. Have you ever thought about it? As an outsider, what right do you have to demand him to give his heart to you?”
With a mocking tone, Sasha’s words were scathing and candid at the same time.
Just as she spoke, Tillie’s face reddened intensely, as if she had been slapped by someone.
After all, Sasha had spoken the truth.
In fact, those weren’t her only problems.
Due to her mediocre looks, she became self-conscious, sensitive, and filled with hatred.
All because she found it to be ridiculous.
One’s looks were gifted by one’s parents. If everyone thought the same way as she did, everyone ugly in the world would have ended themselves. In reality, the good-looking lived their lives their own way, while the not-so-good-looking would have their own ways to survive too.
Therefore, there was no need for her to be filled with such anger.
However, she felt that she was the same kind of person Edmund was even though they were leagues apart from each other.
Edmund was someone that was truly unlucky.
Sasha added, “Actually, you could have been someone that led a good life. I heard that when Edmund went to your home to discuss the matter, he had no intention of marrying you. It was you who insisted your dad use you as a bargaining chip.”
“H-How did you know about that?”
“Of course I know about it. Let me be honest with you. There is nothing in Jadeborough that can escape my husband’s ears or his eyes,” Sasha repeated frostily.
Tillie was taken aback by Sasha’s words, causing her to knock onto the railing behind her with a thud.
Meanwhile, Edmund and the others were waiting downstairs. When he saw what had happened, he furrowed his brows again.
“What are the both of them talking about up there? Why are they taking so long? Is she addicted?”
Obviously, his tone was directed at Tillie.
Instead of answering Edmund’s question, Sebastian advised him, “You should treat her better, as she is your wife after all. Also, she did manage to keep your family in line. So, stop behaving like a child.”
Only then did Edmund fall silent.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1522
Clemency
The two ladies finally came down ten minutes later.
When Sebastian saw them, he went forward to take Sasha’s hand and led her back to the car.
As for Edmund, even though he refused to hold his wife’s hand, he still waited for her in front of the car.
Much to his surprise, Tillie looked as if her soul had left her body when she came down. He tried calling out to her a few times but didn’t get any response.
“Tillie, what’s wrong with you? Why aren’t you responding?”
“Huh?”
Only then did Tillie get in the car with him.
During the entire journey back to the Cooper residence, she didn’t say a word. The moment she arrived, she locked herself in the bedroom.
Meanwhile, Sasha and Sebastian had returned to Oceanic Estate. By the time they reached home, Sebastian had begun to question her.
“How did it go? Did she admit it?”
Finding Tillie’s response ridiculous, Sasha replied with a hint of mockery, “Yeah, but she was really arrogant.”
How can she still behave so haughtily after harming someone?
Given how quick-tempered Sebastian was, a grim expression descended on his face.
“What do you mean?”
“She has some mental problems. In fact, I believe she suffers from paranoid personality disorder because she displays symptoms such as oversensitivity, holding grudges, being overly suspicious, narrow-mindedness, and being easily jealous. When I was in Moranta, I did some digging on the environment she was raised in. Perhaps, it was caused by her the values her parents imparted to her due to her ordinary appearance.”
Considering how well-versed Sasha was in the field of psychology, she was able to diagnose Tillie’s issue after a short exchange.
Paranoid personality disorder?
Sebastian’s anger receded after hearing Sasha’s explanation.
It had reminded him of his own sickness, which was significantly more severe than Tillie’s. Fortunately, he had people by his side who refused to give up on him.
It was his adopted father, Frederick, and also his dearest wife, Sasha.
“If that’s the case, we should advise her to see a doctor.”
“Yeah, I spoke to her frankly just now. So now, the ball is in her court. If she really wants to stay by Edmund’s side, she will accept my suggestion. Furthermore, I promised her that I wouldn’t tell Edmund.”
In the end, Sasha chose clemency.
She believed that a person with a good heart would be able to reflect on their mistakes and change for the better.
That night, the couple slept well.
The next morning, Sabrina hurried to get herself discharged from the hospital due to Sasha and Sebastian’s return. Instead of going back to Red Pavilion, she went to Oceanic Estate.
“Sasha, let’s have barbeque tonight. I am craving for it.”
“Huh?”
“What’s wrong with you?” Sebastian, who was coincidentally beside Sasha, snapped.
Sabrina and Sasha were both rendered speechless.
In the end, it was Devin who came over to defuse the situation. “All right now, Sabrina. You have just been discharged from the hospital. Hence, you had better watch what you eat.”
“Watch what I eat? It’s just barbeque, you know.”
Sabrina continued to play victim.
Feeling bad for what happened, Sasha walked over. “Fine, let’s have barbeque tonight. I’ll go grocery shopping later.”
“Hurray! By the way, we can invite Tillie over to help. You must know that she is an excellent chef. When I was in the hospital, I was so well fed that I almost became a pig,” Sabrina proposed all of a sudden.
Sasha turned around to look at Sebastian but realized that he had walked off to the study without saying a word.
Recognizing that he had no objections, Sasha agreed to Sabrina’s suggestion.
The pregnant Sabrina was elated that her wish was granted. With that, she gave Tillie a call to invite her over.
When Tillie heard the call, she felt her heart sink. However, after picking up, she was reinvigorated instead.
“Are you telling me to go over to Oceanic Estate?”
“Yes, Sasha invited you. By the way, she seems to be quite busy. If you don’t mind, can you go to the mall to grab some groceries?”
Sabrina was as candid as ever.
Nevertheless, Tillie couldn’t be any happier.
Of course she didn’t mind.
In fact, she was more than willing and even honored to do it.
Having recovered her spirit, Tillie left home with a smile on her face. As for Violet and Alice, they no longer dared to challenge her after learning that she had built a relationship with the Jadesons.
Both of them went off to work obediently.
The moment Tillie stepped out, she couldn’t contain her excitement and sent Sasha a message via her phone.
Tillie: Mrs. Hayes, I am grateful for the second chance you have given me. Over the years, I have refused to admit my own weaknesses and blamed my misfortune on others. Thank you for making me realize this. Consequently, I’ll take your advice and see a psychologist. No matter what happens between Edmund and me in the future, I will always remember the good you have done me today.
The message was so long that Sasha, who was in the study, had to stop what she was doing to read it.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1523
You Need To Rest
Sebastian asked, “What is it? Who are you chatting with?”
Sasha replied, “Tillie has apologized to me and thanked me for giving her a second chance.”
Smiling, she handed Sebastian the phone.
The conclusion was what everyone had hoped for. At the very least, Tillie wanted to improve and seized upon the opportunity to do so.
Consequently, Sasha and Sebastian decided to keep the matter a secret. During the barbeque in the evening, the atmosphere was jovial. Other than Devin and Sabrina, Edmund joined in the party too.
They made merry for the entire night.
By the time Edmund and Tillie left, everyone noticed their relationship had taken a turn for the better.
Thus, Sasha put the matter at the back of her mind.
When she saw Sebastian holed up in his study the entire night despite the party outside, she went into the kitchen and made some soup for him.
“Sebby, why don’t you have some soup first. There’s no point rushing to meet the orders,” Sasha said to him while putting the soup in front of the latter.
Despite their long trip to Moranta, they didn’t manage to resolve the problem they had. All they did was buy some time for themselves by delaying the delivery date. In spite of that, it was still imperative that they produce the goods on time.
Unfortunately, what was troubling them now was that the manufactured products were not up to expectations. In fact, they began to wonder how the sample was made in the first place.
In the midst of solving the chemistry problem on his computer, Sebastian declined in exasperation.
“I’m not hungry.”
“Sebastian Hayes!”
Fuming in front of him, Sasha suddenly cried out his full name, causing him to be stunned.
When he raised his gaze and noticed the anger in her eyes, he was jolted into stopping what he was doing.
“Let me remind you that health is wealth. If you refuse to take care of your body while doing this, I will forbid you from getting involved,” Sasha declared candidly.
Sebastian was dumbstruck as it was the first time he was scolded by her.
Finally, he complied and finished the soup. After that, he proceeded to dismantle the earliest samples that had been sent back.
Sasha was given a fright when she saw what he was about to do.
“What are you doing? How can you do it yourself? It’s not like you even know how to do it.”
“What else am I supposed to do? All the staffs are useless. If I don’t do it myself and produce something, I will be in trouble,” Sebastian ranted with a gloomy expression.
He had no other choice as the transaction was turning into the decline of his illustrious business career. Despite resolving everything else, he had not expected to fail there.
Even Sasha was stumped.
At the end of the day, she refused to let him do it, as both of them were victims of nuclear wave radiation.
The last thing she wanted was for him to be hurt from being exposed to it again.
Hence, Sasha took the sample away from him and shoved it onto Devin instead.
“Devin, Sebastian is being driven mad by this item. Can you get someone to dismantle it and map out in detail the components inside? I don’t want him to physically touch it.”
“Sure,” Devin readily agreed.
Thus, Devin brought the sample home with him.
As for Sasha, she dragged Sebastian back up to their room to rest regardless of whether he wanted it or not.
“Sebastian, have you heard of this saying?”
“What saying?”
“Sometimes, even the strongest people get tired. By working endless nights on it, your mind will shut down from exhaustion regardless of how smart you are,” Sasha illustrated her point to him.
All she was telling him was that he had to rest when necessary.
To her surprise, Sebastian suddenly stood at the bathroom door and gave her a long and thoughtful look.
“That seems to make sense.”
“What?”
“Shall we go in together, Darling?” All of a sudden, he hugged her so closely that she could feel his burning breath. Before she could react, he had carried her into the bathroom.
Hey! This wasn’t what I meant!
That night, Sasha was made to understand what it felt like to be digging her own grave.
When both of them woke up the next morning, Jonathan sent them a message saying that Aquene Temple had called to inform them that the pears on the hill were ripe for picking. Hence, he asked them if they were interested in going.
Picking pears?
Sasha didn’t know whether to laugh or to cry. Nonetheless, she kept her opinions to herself.
After agreeing to it, she came up to persuade Sebastian. “Sebby, let’s head over for a relaxing day out. Besides, you haven’t seen your dad in a long time.”
“Haha, whose dad?”
“My dad. It’s that fine with you?”
Given what a flexible woman Sasha was, she changed her tact in the blink of an eye.
With that, the couple headed to Aquene Temple in the afternoon.
The moment they arrived at the foot of the hill, they saw a large swathe of undulating hills covered by a golden hue. Underneath the rays of the afternoon sun, the entire landscape looked like a stunning painting from a master artist.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1524
Not Addressing His Son Properly
Sasha’s mood couldn’t help but improve especially when she saw the fruit-laden trees on both sides of the road on their drive up the hill.
In fact, she was so delighted that she got Sebastian to stop so that she could pick some of them.
“Evidently, Grandpa is right in telling us to come here.”
Holding a large and juicy pear, she took a bite to taste the sweet nectar of the fruit before handing it over to Sebastian.
However, Sebastian refused to take it and wanted her to feed him instead.
“I’m driving and don’t have time for it. One bite is enough for me.”
Speechless, Sasha had no choice but to give him her pear reluctantly.
Meanwhile, when Sebastian sensed how happy Sasha was, his mood improved accordingly. By the time they reached the entrance of the temple, he felt entirely at ease.
“Mr. Hayes, I would like to welcome the both of you.”
“Right. Where’s your master? We’re here to have tea with him.”
When Sasha saw the junior monk, she politely requested to see Shin instead of admitting that she was there for the pears.
Otherwise, she would either be laughed at by Sebastian or Shin, given how lame her excuse was.
A short while after the junior monk disappeared, a monk in a grey robe emerged with an air of loftiness around him. Amidst the fragrant incense, a peal of delightful laughter rang out.
“Mr. and Mrs. Hayes, it’s been a while. Please come in and have a seat.”
Sebastian remained silent as Sasha replied, “Thank you, Master.”
After that, Sasha dragged Sebastian alongside her as they entered together.
It was understandable why Sebastian was angry. Despite them being father and son, Shin addressed Sebastian as Mr. Hayes. Anyone in the same position as him would be equally outraged.
In spite of that, Devin was exceptionally thick-skinned. In the face of Sebastian’s gloomy expression, Shin laughed heartily like a carefree child instead of being angry.
“Master, has the temple been busy recently?”
“It’s all right. Since autumn is upon us, we are harvesting the crops and conducting ceremonies for tourists that visit. So, we’re not really that busy.”
After that, Shin led them to a pavilion where he brewed them some tea from leaves that were just harvested in spring.
In response, Sasha snuck a glance at the silent Sebastian and decided to give both of them some space. Hence, she made an excuse about visiting the temple’s pharmacy and left them alone.
Consequently, both Shin and Sebastian sat together in awkward silence.
It was made worse by the fact that Sebastian was never one for words.
Letting out a sigh, Shin finally broke the ice. “How have you been? Is your body holding up?”
With a teacup in his hand, Sebastian snorted, “I don’t die that easily.”
Shin was stumped.
I guess I’ll have to bear with it since I’m the one that owes him.
After drinking two cups, Shin handed over a key that was made of pure bronze.
“I heard that you are having trouble with the product that Eddie created. This is the key to his laboratory back then. Do you want to take a look?”
Finally, Sebastian stopped drinking his tea and looked up in earnest.
Is this the real reason why he invited me here?
After staring at the key for a while, he put down his teacup and took the key.
Shin simply added, “Nevertheless, you have to be careful due to the strong radiation inside. I have gotten my men to prepare a suit for you outside. Once you put it on, you’ll be able to go in.”
At that moment, Sebastian raised his brow when he finally felt Shin’s concern.
Just when he wanted to leave with the key right away, Sebastian pondered a moment and asked, “Since you are unable to cut your ties with the mundane world, why do you insist on staying here?”
Shin was caught by surprise.
“I…”
Suddenly, Sebastian began mumbling to himself. “Forget it. Perhaps, this is the best place for you, as it puts my mind at ease. No matter how peaceful it is, the conflict will always be inevitable as long as a Jadeson sits at Oceanic Estate. Although Grandpa is getting close to ninety, he still has to play politics with those people.”
With furrowed brows, Sebastian’s expression was tinged with resentment and frustration.
Given that the responsibility had fallen on his shoulders, he had no choice but to shoulder it despite how reluctant he was.
Holding the key in his hand, he proceeded to the basement.
As for Shin, he remained at the pavilion, lost in his own thoughts. It wasn’t until he felt his eyes moisten that he finished his tea with a smile.
When Sasha returned from the pharmacy, she was told that Sebastian had gone to Felicity’s old lab. The news caused her to be filled with concern.
“Master, is that place dangerous? The nuclear waves from Felicity’s experiments contained very strong amounts of radiation.”
“Don’t worry. I have prepared a radiation suit for him and informed him of the time limit. As long as he doesn’t stay too long, he will be fine,” Shin reassured her.
Despite his words, Shin would every now and then check the pocket watch hanging off his robes.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1525
Standing On The Shoulders Of Giants
Meanwhile, Sasha waited anxiously for half an hour.
If he hadn’t come out by then, she would have dashed in herself.
Fortunately, he did appear half an hour later.
“How is it? Are you all right? Why did you take so long? Didn’t your dad tell you that you only have about twenty minutes?”
The moment Sasha saw Sebastian, she was so worried that she inadvertently addressed Shin differently, causing Shin to feel awkward.
Despite a slip of the tongue, he wasn’t in the mood to be bothered, as he too was anxious about Sebastian’s condition.
Luckily, when Sebastian took off the radiation suit, he didn’t feel anything other than being drenched in sweat.
“I’m fine. It took some time, but I found her notes.”
Holding up a dusty notebook, he patted it in front of everyone.
Only then, did Sasha heave a sigh of relief.
In the evening, they remained at the pavilion. However, Sebastian had gotten a change of clothes and was sitting there reading the notebook underneath the rays of the setting sun.
As for Sasha, she didn’t dare disrupt him at all.
In truth, there was no need for them to deal with the matter themselves.
Unfortunately, the workers at the factory were just too incompetent. More importantly, the secrets underneath the temple had yet to be revealed to the public for fear of creating chaos.
As a result, Sasha finally understood why Jonathan and Shin made such an arrangement.
Sitting beside Sebastian and observing him flicking through the notebook with a frown, she could feel a sense of dread creeping onto her.
“What is it, Sebby? Is it difficult?”
“Yeah. Felicity is a genius indeed. Her nuclear wave is created by combining tens of different chemical compounds. No wonder those idiots were unable to find out what they were,” he complained.
Sasha didn’t know what to say to that.
After all, chemistry was such a difficult subject that it wasn’t a surprise ordinary folk couldn’t get a good grasp of it.
In that case, what about the orders that we are supposed to fill for Moranta? If we fail to do so, we will have to compensate them hundreds of billions. If that were to happen, wouldn’t the national treasury use up all the profit that it had recently earned?
“Sebby?”
“Why don’t we let Ian take a look?”
Sebastian sprung the question on Sasha, causing her to be dumbstruck.
Are you kidding me? Are you really going to throw a problem you can’t solve to a twelve-year-old boy?
Sasha felt that he was being ridiculous.
As a matter of fact, there was something mysterious about genes. Even though Sebastian was extremely smart, on some level, he was still no match for his son.
For example, the microchip that Ian was currently researching at the facility had overwhelmed Sebastian in terms of its complexity.
That very night, Ian, who was still at the facility, received an email from his daddy. Too lazy to write anything, Sebastian took photos of the notebook and attached them instead.
When she saw what he did, Sasha was at a loss for words.
Unfortunately, even Ian couldn’t decode it after analyzing it through the night.
Ian gave Sebastian a call and recommended someone. “Daddy, my major is quantum mechanics and not chemistry. But, there’s someone in my class whom I think can solve it. One time, he had managed to make the exhaust fumes at the facility mysteriously disappear.”
However, Sebastian fell silent in response.
He was upset to hear that there was someone smarter than his son. After all, Ian’s IQ was already considered top-notch.
In the end, after Ian handed the notebook to his classmate, his classmate provided them with a detailed breakdown of all the chemical components after three days.
Furthermore, he had even provided detailed steps on how to manufacture the product.
It was unbelievable.
After Sebastian had gone through it, he didn’t feel like saying a word.
Sasha didn’t dare to make a sound either.
It wasn’t until Jonathan saw it that he snorted, “Who is that damn kid? Give me all his details!”
Soon, the child’s biodata was sent over. When they opened it, they saw that he came from an average background where his parents were farmers. Furthermore, he had an ordinary name which was Duncan Snow.
Snow?
It felt unfamiliar to everyone, as no one had heard of that name before.
Nevertheless, it wasn’t a surprise given that he was one of the gifted children that Jonathan had handpicked from all over the country.
Therefore, they didn’t think too much about it after going through his biodata.
As for Jonathan, he transferred the child to the military after realizing his exceptional talent. There, Duncan was to work on researching the latest weapons in secret.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1526
Death Is Inevitable
Finally, a huge burden was lifted off the shoulders of Sasha and her family when issues about the deal drew to a close.
Sebastian was exceptionally relieved. He was swamped with work during the busy period and lost some weight as a result. Hence, Sasha was thinking of taking a breather by planning for a fall vacation for both of them.
Sabrina texted: You’re going on a trip? Then, who is going to manage the bar? I can’t do it, and Ichika is in Avenport. So, are we going to shut down the business?
As soon as Sabrina heard the news at the comfort of her own home at Red Pavilion, she grumbled immediately.
Upon receiving her text, Sasha immediately replied: It’s a short one to relax for several days. We’ll be back before you know it.
Ichika responded: Where are you going, Sha? Are you swinging by Avenport? It’s been ages since we last met. I miss you so much!
Ichika, who had been quiet for a long time, appeared suddenly in the chat group with an invitation to the couple.
Avenport?
Sasha was rather tempted.
That sounds good. After all, it’s the place where we grew up. The weather is great, and our relatives are there. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to pay a visit again?
Upon hanging up, Sasha went upstairs to look for Sebastian, only to see him scribbling something at his desk.
She approached him to take a closer look and realized that he was drawing a familiar map.
“W-Why are you drawing the temple? Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”
“The time bomb needs to be diffused. Moreover, the radiation emitted from the underground lab is very harmful to the monks. It’s going to spell trouble if anyone accidentally walks into it,” he frowned and said while sketching.
Staring at that man, Sasha gulped, completely lost for words.
He’s becoming less and less like himself. In the past, he was always the heartless guy with a God-like presence who never cared about anything other than himself.
Now, he’s like a totally different person—one who is concerned about the safety of others. Is it true that people change and become more thoughtful as they age? But he’s only thirty-five.
Sasha decided to leave him alone and strode to the kitchen to prepare him some nutritious food instead.
Two days later, Sebastian went up to the mountains with Sasha.
While the couple was gone for half a month, Sasha had Tillie man the bar since the latter was in Jadeborough and had time to spare.
Then, it was fall. The temperature in Jadeborough dropped significantly. As age caught up with him, Jonathan’s health deteriorated.
Devin messaged: Sebastian, Grandpa fainted, and he’s in the hospital now. When are you coming over?
Sasha and Sebastian were enjoying some tasty barbecued wild mushrooms when Devin’s message interrupted their tranquil night.
She noticed Sebastian’s creased forehead as he put down the fork and read the text message.
Feeling curious, Sasha asked, “What’s wrong? Something happened?”
Sebastian nodded. “Hmm. Grandpa is in the hospital. Let’s pack up now and make a move.”
Then, he got himself ready hastily.
Hearing so, Sasha wasted no time before they both made their way to the door.
“Hang on, don’t we need to inform Master, Sebby?”
“Whatever for?” Sebastian refused without a second of thought.
Panic-stricken, Sasha held him back and requested that he wait for her in the courtyard while she hurried over to knock at Shin’s door.
“It’s late at night. Is there anything that I can help you with, Mrs. Hayes?”
“Master, we’ve just received news that Grandpa fainted back home and has been rushed to the hospital. Do you want to come with us?” Sasha said anxiously while staring at the monk who answered the door.
A long silence ensued.
The monk turned pale and froze in the dim glow of a night lamp.
Though a monk was supposed to let go of any emotional attachments and entanglements in life, it was usually easier said than done. How many could genuinely practice the ultimate cessation of desires and wants?
I don’t think his religion will force him to detach himself from those who mean a lot to him. Anyhow, blood is thicker than water.
In the end, Shin left for the hospital alongside the Hayes couple.
When they arrived, Jonathan was still in the operating theater.
Cerebral thrombosis…
Grayson’s suspicion put all the Jadesons in low spirits.
With his gaze fixated on the tightly shut doors of the operating theater, Shin’s callused hands were seen clasping onto the prayer beads hung in front of his chest.
After three hours of ordeal, the light at the operating theater finally went out.
Sebastian and Devin quickly rose to their feet and darted forward.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1527
Becoming Enlightened
“How is he?”
“Dr. Wallen, is my grandpa all right?”
Everyone’s eyes were filled with hopeful longing and sheer anxiety at the same time.
Looking glum, Grayson shook his head. “It’s not looking good. Although we managed to save him, he’s most probably going to spend his remaining days bedridden. He’s still unconscious as of now. So, we can’t tell if there are other symptoms or side effects.”
Grayson was feeling extremely dejected.
His words were followed by prolonged silence as everyone in the hallway fell into despair, unable to accept the fact which came like a bolt from the blue.
Bedridden for life? How devastating will that be for a general who has led countless troops to victory to receive this bad news? It’s a bitter pill for him to swallow, much worse than taking his life.
At that instant, everyone hit rock bottom emotionally.
A few minutes later, Sabrina brought the matter up in the family chat group.
Rufus was stunned to learn the shocking news. So, he booked the first flight to return to Jadeborough the following morning.
Meanwhile, Solomon and Ichika also planned to visit Jonathan, a senior who had rendered them a lot of support.
The next day, many gathered at the hospital.
“Sha, how’s Old Mr. Jadeson? Is he okay?”
Ichika, who was very fond of Jonathan, threw the question at Sasha as soon as she arrived.
The latter did not know how to respond because Jonathan was still unconscious.
The wait was extremely hard to bear for everyone.
When they peeped into the ward, they could see an old monk dressed in a grey robe. He was sitting next to the bed with his hands clasped in a prayerful position. His eyes were tightly shut. One could tell that he was very focused while chanting.
Nobody seemed to know what was on his mind, but they were all certain he was praying for Jonathan’s speedy recovery. After all, he owed it all to the old man in this lifetime.
Perhaps Heaven took pity on Jonathan, or maybe Shin’s earnest prayers and continuous plea for over three decades had moved God’s heart; Jonathan slowly opened his eyes when the afternoon sunbeam gently weaved its way through the window blinds.
“You’re awake?”
Shin had very sensitive hearing. As soon as he heard the slightest movement, he opened his eyes and was delighted to see the face that greeted him.
Jonathan fixed his eyes on his son. He had not seen Shin with such an expression in a long time.
When they met at the temple, Shin always wore a polite but apathetic smile and remained indifferent throughout.
Jonathan was lost in his gaze. After a long pause, he asked in a hoarse voice, “You stayed up the entire night?”
Shin remained silent. It took him a while to snap back into his senses.
Nodding rather stiffly, he answered, “Chanting and praying for your recovery is the least I could do.”
The standard reply from Shin enraged Jonathan.
However, he seemed to get over it quite quickly.
The next moment, Jonathan sighed and announced, “What an idiot! Anyway, I’ve thought it through, and I think that you’re right. Therefore, I’ve made up my mind to move into the temple as well. Go ahead and prepare a room for me.”
“What?”
“Why are you so stunned? I already have one foot in the grave, so shouldn’t I get ready to leave this mundane world? I know I don’t have many days ahead of me. After fighting in wars my whole life, my hands are stained with blood. Isn’t it a good thing if I could achieve salvation before I die?”
A near brush with death had completely changed Jonathan’s mindset.
Shin stared at him blankly, trying to process what he had just said.
Shortly after that, Sebastian and the rest entered the ward upon realizing that Jonathan was awoken.
“Grandpa, you’re up? Are you feeling okay?”
“I’m fine. In fact, I have something to discuss with you. What are your thoughts about me living in the mountains?”
Jonathan seemed to be in a very good mood.
Mountains?
His question had everyone baffled, especially Sebastian.
After being worried sick for one whole night, Jonathan’s antics made his expression turn as dark as coal.
Initially, Devin wanted to convince Sebastian to give in to Jonathan’s request when everyone returned to Oceanic Estate in the evening. Due to the presence of Solomon, Ichika, and Sasha’s father, Devin dropped the topic.
“All right, it’s been a busy day for everyone. Now that Grandpa is okay, let’s have dinner together.”
As the lady host, Sasha served a spread on the dining table and invited everyone to dig in.
Feeling relieved, everyone else cheered up a little and started eating.
While the men did not seem to have an intention to take a break from their drinking sessions, the women headed to the observation tower for tea after dinner.
Sabrina warned, “Aren’t you trying to conceive, Ichika? Yet, you’re still drinking tea? You shouldn’t take too much caffeine.”
“Huh?” Ichika was surprised at the sudden question posted to her.
Sasha froze when she heard that, leaving her hand holding a teacup hanging mid-air.
Oh right, this has completely slipped my mind.
Feeling intrigued, she put her cup down and stared at the blushing lady. “How’s it? Any good news?” She pursued further.
Ichika stayed quiet. Moments later, she hung her head low.
Her face was as red as a beetroot.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1528
Unshirkable Responsibilities
“It has been… a few days delayed.”
“Really?” the two women surrounding her exclaimed excitedly.
Tears even glistened in Sabrina’s eyes, thinking that the Hayeses finally had an heir.
No doubt she loved the triplets to bits. She was thrilled that the bloodline of her father, Frederick, was now secured.
This little one will be his true progeny in the future. I bet he can finally rest in peace if he finds out.
“Um… Sab and Sha, please don’t spill the beans to your husbands. I haven’t confirmed yet, so…”
Ichika was taken aback to see how exhilarated the two ladies were. Hence, she quickly reminded them to keep it a secret.
Obviously, Sasha would not let it slide. She took Ichika’s pulse with utter seriousness right away while Ichika and Sabrina held their breath in suspense.
Within two minutes, she had her answers.
“Sab…”
“Hmm?”
“Do you want to do the honors and check with Saul about the family tree of the Hayeses? To find out who should the next baby be named after. You know, it’s good to get this out of the way early.” Sasha grinned from ear to ear.
Sabrina widened her eyes and was about to explode from excitement.
On the other hand, Ichika was so surprised, her face instantly flushing.
This is absolutely great news!
The cat was let out of the bag later that night. Solomon could not believe it and asked Ichika umpteen times to confirm.
“Is it true? Nancy took your pulse personally?”
“Yes,” Ichika replied shyly.
She was well pleased at her husband’s ecstatic reaction.
Mom has said before that a woman could tell how much her husband loves her from his expression when he learns about the pregnancy.
Feeling elated, she slept soundly that night.
Ironically, Solomon could not fall asleep. He did not dare to toss and turn on the bed as he was afraid of crushing Ichika.
In the end, he decided to get up and head outside for a puff.
Surprisingly, he was not the only one who stayed up late. There was another figure in the hallway upstairs, seemingly smoking a cigarette.
Sebastian?
The room in which Solomon and his wife were staying now was the one next to Sabrina’s former room, whereas Sebastian’s family occupied the top floor.
Hence, he guessed that it was him.
Staring at the brightly lit cigarette, Solomon hesitated before deciding to walk upstairs.
Indeed, it’s him.
He saw Sebastian standing there alone, working on something on his smartphone. From the refraction of the dimmed screen light, Solomon noticed that Sebastian was furrowing his brows.
“What are you up to?” Solomon approached him.
Upon hearing that, Sebastian turned and was astonished to see Solomon there.
“I was attending to a matter. Why aren’t you in bed yet?” He swiftly switched off his phone, not wanting Solomon to see what he was doing.
Solomon got the hint and did not query him further.
“Well, I’m not used to changes,” he blurted honestly.
Nowadays, Solomon would speak his mind in front of Sebastian.
However, the latter did not understand what he was referring to.
He could not empathize with Solomon because Sasha lost her baby at a very early stage of her pregnancy due to poor health.
Therefore, he could not understand what Solomon was feeling simply because he had never gone through the same experience.
“What changes? The bed?”
“No…” Solomon felt somewhat awkward, so he gazed at the scenery and changed the subject immediately.
“By the way, what do you think about Old Mr. Jadeson’s idea of living in the mountain? Are you agreeable to it?”
“Whatever!” Sebastian snapped.
Solomon found it amusing as he tried to process Sebastian’s answer.
Based on how much and how well I know about him, his laconic reply is actually a yes. What a guy! He seems cold and hostile outside, but he’s, in fact, a softy who’s more gentle and considerate than anyone else.
Thinking about his own affairs, Solomon felt a fuzzy feeling creeping up from within.
“Well, if Old Mr. Jadeson goes to the mountain, everything related to Oceanic Estate will fall on your shoulders. What’s your plan?”
“I’m not interested in those things at all.”
“I know. Regardless of your interest level, some matters are inevitable. I heard that many tried to squeeze their way in to see Old Mr. Jadeson since the night he was hospitalized. I’m sure Oceanic Estate has rejected many requests tonight, too, right?” Solomon cut to the chase and addressed the elephant in the room.
Though Jonathan had retired and washed his hands off politics, the Jadesons still held a formidable presence in the country because of its enormous contributions made in the past.
That was why many still sought their advice and orders even though none of them held any position at the White House.
With Old Mr. Jadeson leaving for Aquene Temple, it goes unsaid that the unshirkable responsibility will fall on Sebastian. Is he thinking of pushing it to others? That will never ever happen. I guess he was dealing with this issue on the phone just now. This is probably the only reason why he is reluctant to let Old Mr. Jadeson go to the temple.
Sebastian did not utter a single word, but he smoked a lot that night.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1529
Can I Make Friends
The next morning, Solomon brought Ichika back to Avenport.
Sasha did not insist that they stay, knowing that a significant change affecting the family was brewing in the background. So, she wanted to be prepared for it alongside her man.
As she had expected, Jonathan was discharged a week later, and Sebastian had Devin send him to Aquene Temple. They did not make a stop at Oceanic Estate just so that those who wanted to see Jonathan had no chance to do so.
With that, the people in Jadeborough speculated that Oceanic Estate had changed hands recently.
Sasha did not interfere with that. Since Jonathan left, she had been staying home, managing all household matters. Her priority was to take good care of Sebastian.
Hence, she had no time to entertain all the socialites who wanted to make connections with her.
Time passed by in the blink of an eye. Soon, it was the end of the year, and Sabrina was almost due.
With the kids returning home, it kept her super busy.
“Do you want Wendy to come over and help you?”
Sebastian felt so sorry for her whenever he came downstairs and witnessed how buried in work she was.
Wendy?
Upon hearing the familiar name, Sasha shook her head. “No, Wendy should stay with Ichika and take care of her. It’s her first baby. Moreover, her parents aren’t there to help out.”
“Then…” Sebastian ran out of ideas.
Indeed, Wendy is too occupied to leave Ichika. The only reliable person among the Jadesons is Colton’s wife, but she’s taking care of Sabrina. Oh dear, we’re truly short-handed.
Sasha had no choice but to lead the Jadesons in all of its internal affairs.
Thankfully, everyone in the household followed her lead upon recognizing that the couple was now the head of the Jadesons. With that, they pledged their loyalty and served the family sincerely.
It was a tremendous relief for both Sebastian and Sasha.
During winter break, Ian was the first among the triplets to come home. The boy seemed to have grown much taller and lost a lot of weight after leaving for a boarding school for six months.
Though he still looked as handsome as ever, Sasha’s heart sank seeing his hollow cheeks.
“Oh dear, why are you so skinny? Was the food that bad? Or were you having trouble looking after yourself?”
“My oh my, how did our poor Mr. Ian become so scrawny?”
The housemaids at Oceanic Estate lamented at the sight of Ian.
Subsequently, they stocked up the groceries and prepared an array of scrumptious dishes to feed him.
They wanted to fatten him up so badly.
However, Ian felt fine. In fact, he appeared to be much more optimistic and cheerful now.
“Mommy, can I hang out at my friend’s in two days?”
“Huh?” Sasha was shocked to the core.
Did he just ask permission to visit his friend? Alone?
She could not believe her ears.
“Sure! Where does your classmate live? Do you need me to drive you there?”
“No need. My friend’s place is just a stone’s throw away. I can get there by taxi. Oh, by the way, I’d like to prepare a gift too. Mommy, could you please give me some money to spend at the mall this afternoon?”
Oh my God!
Sasha was over the moon.
When she returned to her room on the third floor, she called Sebastian at once.
“Sebby, I’ve got to tell you this. Ian, he… he…”
“What happened?”
Upon receiving the call and hearing the woman start sobbing over the phone, Sebastian postponed the meeting and dashed out of the room, only to realize that it was a false alarm.
“Ian said that he… wants to hang out at his friend’s. He also asked me for some money to buy a gift at the mall.”
“That’s all?”
Sebastian did not know whether to laugh or to cry. Nonetheless, he was relieved that nothing untoward had happened.
Arching her brow, Sasha replied, “Yes, aren’t you overjoyed that he’s changed? He wants to go out and even buy a present! I.. I…”
“Right, it’s something to celebrate, indeed. I’m glad that we made the right decision back then. Do advise him on things to look out for when he goes to his friend’s house.”
“Sure, I will!” she promised happily.
The same day, she passed some money to Ian to go shopping.
Ian was very prudent. He took only a thousand before heading out.
Sasha watched him leave, and her heart overflowed with joy.
Among all the children, Sasha worried for him the most because he was different. Since he was young, he had gone through so much because of his autism. Therefore, the couple put in much effort and gave him a lot of attention.
Seeing how he had significantly improved in many aspects made Sasha very pleased and put her in such a good mood throughout the day.
She was seen smiling gleefully around the house.
Everyone in the household was also very excited to see how much Ian had changed.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1530
Something Is Brewing
Sabrina messaged: Seriously? Sasha, tell him to come over. I want to see him so badly.
Sasha replied: Sure thing. I’ll tell him that when he’s back.
Mr. Wand texted: Oh, that’s wonderful! I should pay my grandson a visit soon.
Old Mr. Jadeson responded: Come and celebrate new year’s eve here. All are welcome.
Jonathan appeared suddenly in the chat group and made everyone laugh with his proposal.
Sasha’s eyes glowed upon seeing the message.
Then, Sasha replied: Oh, we celebrated the new year at Hayes Residence last year. So, let’s gather in Jadeborough this year. Dad, you can bring Lennie. @Solomon, please bring Ichika along.
Without hesitation, Sasha made it a formal invitation to all.
Mr. Wand simply messaged: Hmm…
Devin responded: Great idea! Sabrina is due around the same time. So, you guys can see the baby when you come over.
Sabrina messaged: Deliver on new year’s eve? No way! I want it out after the new year!
Even though they were chatting virtually, everyone else could imagine how exasperated the man was.
Nonetheless, everyone was looking forward to the upcoming meet-up. Solomon was at the office when he read the text. When he got home and saw his pregnant wife, he sought her opinion right away.
“Of course! It’s going to be fun. I really want to go, Darling,” she expressed her desire eagerly, to which Solomon agreed to spend the new year in Jadeborough.
Sasha started making preparations days ahead. She could not wait to have a jolly great time with her loved ones.
As for Ian, he had been keeping himself occupied ever since the day he came home with a box of marker pens. He would either go out for a walk or spend time at his friend’s house.
Sometimes, his friend would visit Oceanic Estate too.
Sasha found out that his friend was actually Duncan.
“Ian, why did you gift him a box of marker pens? Is he still drawing?”
Sasha pulled her son aside and asked when she saw the innocent boy visiting their home again.
I recall him being a chemistry genius. Why does he need so many markers?
Upon hearing the question, Ian whipped out a realistic-looking comic from his desk.
“What do you think, Mommy?”
“Whoa!” Sasha was stunned at how magnificent the drawing was.
“It’s terrific! Did he draw this?”
“Yes. He loves drawing, but his family can’t afford the materials. I know that he really wants a box of marker pens, so I gave it to him as a present. He’s brilliant, Mommy.”
The last line beautifully captured Ian’s adoration toward Duncan’s capabilities.
It was not easy for someone so intelligent as Ian, who was already the cream of the crop, to find a person he would recognize as a friend. The reason would only be that the person was related to him or the person wowed him with an innate talent.
Sasha could not help but give Duncan a once-over.
She was really curious about his family background, considering that his son was so impressed with the boy.
Then, she left them alone, not wanting to disturb.
Soon, Matteo and Vivian came home as well.
Matteo attended the military academy, so Devin brought him back as soon as the holidays began. As for Vivian, Sasha went to the airport and fetched her personally.
“Mommy!”
The little girl, who had also grown taller, cast her suitcase aside and threw herself into her mother’s arms the moment she saw her at the airport.
The boy who landed with her was left behind. Slowly, he carried the suitcases with both hands and approached the duo.
“Mrs. Hayes.”
Right then, Sasha released her daughter, and their gazes met.
After addressing her timidly, the boy lowered his gaze. His lashes were so long and thick like a fan.
“You must be tired. Come, let’s get the car,” Sasha urged.
“Okay!” Vivian flashed a grin.
Sasha thought that her beloved daughter would glue herself to her the entire time.
Unexpectedly, the girl turned around, wrapped her arms around Kurt’s, and hopped around like a bunny as they left for the parking lot.
Sasha was rendered speechless.
This heartless girl. Does she not want her mommy dearest anymore?
Feeling amused, she tagged along and trailed behind the duo.
It was super lively at Oceanic Estate when all the children were back at once. In addition, Matteo and Vivian were the active ones and gave Sasha lots of headaches.
“Vivi, can you and Matteo go play somewhere else? I need to tally the accounts.”
“All right, Mommy,” she complied.
However, the two were frolicking around and returned to the same spot in a flash. This girl and her brother can’t be tamed, can they?
Sasha was almost driven crazy by the kids.
“Vivi, have you completed your artwork? The due date is tomorrow.”
Suddenly, an indifferent male voice rang out and interrupted the children’s boisterous laughter.