Ch. 1741..1750

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1741

Evil

Indeed, Jared was throwing a tantrum at The Ataraxy.

Initially, his immediate family was bigger than that of his brother, Jonathan. He had three sons, Charles, Connor, and Colton, and a daughter Candice.

However, things changed after Sebastian was brought back into the family.

Jared had immense hatred for Sebastian for his return brought misfortune to Jared’s immediate family.

After Charles died, his wife, Jocelyn, and their two kids, Tiffany and Eric, also perished in Sebastian’s hands.

Although Sebastian was not the one who killed Connor, he was the mastermind of the plot that led to Connor’s death. He was the one who leaked information about Connor’s shady business to Jonathan, causing Jonathan to flare up and kill Connor on the spot.

After that, Connor’s son, Tyler also met his end. Shirley, Connor’s wife did not manage to escape retribution as well. Both of them died because of their conspiracy against Sebastian.

Candice was captured by White House and thrown into jail over her role in the conspiracy. She ended up dying in jail.

With that, he was left with only one son and three grandchildren.

Colton had two kids, Timothy and Susan. And Connor had a surviving son, Cameron. They were the only family Jared had left.

However, Jared was dealt with a devastating blow next. He discovered that Colton was actually Eddie and Elizabeth’s son, not his flesh and blood. It was the last straw on the camel’s back, and he could not take it anymore.

On that very New Year’s Eve, he lost his mind and created havoc at The Ataraxy, and some of his staff were savagely beaten by him.

Timothy and Susan were a little older than Sebastian’s kids and already in college. They arrived at The Ataraxy sometime in the evening. Initially, they had no plans to head home as they wanted to take on part-time jobs during the vacation to earn their pocket money. Being thoughtful kids, they wanted to lighten the financial burden on their parents, who had always taught them to be independent and not be financially reliant on Jonathan.

However, a couple of days ago, they received the shocking news that their father had passed away. Devastated, they hurriedly made a trip home.

“Get out! Get out of my house, you bast*rds! I hope you die in a car crash as you step out of here. I wish you all a tragic death!”

As they went near the compound, they could hear a hysterical Jared swearing and cursing loudly. His outburst of profanity echoed through The Ataraxy.

Frightened by the commotion, they hesitated and stopped in their track. From the main entrance, they peeped into the compound, and to their surprise, they saw their mother kneeling on the ground.

Sigrith’s head was bleeding as she wailed and trembled uncontrollably.

“Mom!” Timothy and Susan cried out loud and ran toward their mother.

They had scant information about what happened to their father. Devin called them from Red Pavilion and told them something tragic had happened to their father, urging them to make a trip home.

Upon reaching home, they were greeted by such a shocking scene. Susan was terrified. She ran to Sigrith in a panic and held on tightly to her mother.

Timothy, on the other hand, stood right in front of the ladies to protect them.

“What happened to you, Mom? Grandpa, why did you hit my mom?” Susan wailed.

“Yes. Why did you hit my mom?” Timothy, being an impulsive young man, glared at Jared, angered by the sight of his mother’s injuries.

Before Jared could utter a word in response to Timothy, Sigrith stood up and pulled her two kids aside.

“Why are you here? Go back! What is happening here is none of your business!” she cried out.

“Mom!”

“Why should they leave? Are you still trying to hide the truth from them? Do you want them to keep to the delusion that they are from a respectable family?” Jared shrilled in anger.

Sigrith’s eyes dimmed, and pleaded desperately, “No, please don’t…”

“Why did I hit her? Listen up, you bast*rds. The reason is that she is not my daughter-in-law, and your old man is the love child of that old scumbag Eddie! Is that good enough a justification?” Jared howled and blurted out the harsh truth to the kids.

That was shocking news that even an adult might not be able to handle, let alone two youngsters.

Susan broke down instantly, and Timothy, being a little younger, took a long time to register what he just heard. He stood rooted to the ground, dumbfounded.

What followed were more curses and swearing from Jared. Like a lunatic, he let out a stream of expletives. “You bast*rds will suffer a terrible end. Your father has met his just end, and you will be next. You won’t live to see tomorrow!”

Both Timothy and Susan were shocked beyond words at the wicked curses thrown at them.

They finally saw the true evil colors of Jared and stared at him with ashen faces, aggrieved.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1742

Magnanimous

At that crucial moment, a man stormed into The Ataraxy. When he heard the foul language Jared was using, his big eyes bulged in anger. Picking a stone from the ground, he threw it at Jared.

Thud! The stone hit Jared’s foul mouth spot on!

‘Ouch!” Jared screamed in pain.

“I should have ripped that foul mouth off your face years back! It was a mistake to keep you alive. Do you have a death wish now? If you do, I can oblige and make your wish come true!”

It was Jonathan who had rushed to Sigrith’s rescue. Not satisfied with the injuries he caused Jared, he started scolding him loudly.

Jared was lucky that Jonathan had mellowed with age. If he still had the quick temper of his youthful days, he would have drawn his gun and used it on Jared.

Jared was bleeding profusely and in great pain. Covering his bleeding mouth with his hands, he stopped his swearing and timidly stood there, quiet as a mouse.

Jonathan glared at him sternly until he lowered his eyes and cowered in fear.

Turning his attention to Sigrith and her kids, he said, “Forget the nonsense he sprouted. Get up and come with me to Oceanic Estate.”

“Uncle Jonathan…” Sigrith could not hold in her grief anymore and fell slumped on the ground, sobbing.

Timothy and Susan stood next to Sigrith, staring gratefully at Jonathan. Their tears were flowing uncontrollably too.

Among the Jadesons, they had always respected Jonathan the most. He was the head of the family and although he had a fiery temper, he was fair and reasonable.

Jonathan brought Sigrith, Susan, and Timothy back to Oceanic Estate with him. Sasha, Devin, and their families, together with the relatives from Gossamer Creek, were all waiting anxiously for them. When they saw the pathetic state the three were in, they fumed and lashed out at Jared.

“Has that old man lost his mind? How could he hit you?” Sabrina was the first to voice her anger and disgust.

She would definitely side with Sigrith and her kids. Together with a few other relatives from Gossamer Creek, Sigrith had worked closely with Sabrina at her shop. Under Sigrith’s management, the business was flourishing, and Sabrina never had to worry about a thing as long as Sigrith was there.

Knowing they were like family, no one could fault Sabrina for being angry and disrespectful toward Jared.

“That’s right! You and Colton had been taking such good care of Uncle Jared. How could he be so ruthless toward you?”

“Is he even human?”

“I am not surprised. The Ataraxy has always been a cold and merciless place.”

Everyone at Oceanic Estate started grumbling and defending Sigrith and her family. The three were touched by the support shown and broke down once again in tears.

Although it was revealed that Colton was Eddie’s son, the family could testify that he wasn’t evil like Eddie. They knew him well as they had lived together as a family for decades.

Colton and his family should not be condemned simply because they were biologically related to Eddie. They had no knowledge of Eddie’s sinister plans and were innocent victims themselves.

Sasha managed to calm everyone down and asked some of the ladies to attend to Sigrith’s injuries. Next, she brought Susan and Timothy to join the rest of the kids.

“Matteo and Ian! Come out! Your Aunt Susan and Uncle Timmy are here!” Sasha called out to the kids.

Instantly, the children dropped whatever they were doing and came running out to welcome Susan and Timothy.

“Aunt Susan, you are back! Come and take a look at what we have done. We are preparing for the new year. Come join us!” Vivian greeted them warmly, running up to Susan and hanging on to her arm, urging her to join in.

Being kids, Susan and Timothy quickly set aside the bad experience they had a while ago and were soon basking in the festive mood.

Sasha breathed a sigh of relief and left the kids to continue with the new year preparations.

She went back to the room and found Sebastian poring through a pile of documents the business department had sent him. She briefly updated him on what had happened.

“I have grossly misjudged Jared and never thought he could be so petty,” she commented.

“I am not surprised at all. If he were a gentleman, he would not have raised such terrible kids!” Sebastian sneered.

Sasha let out a sigh, knowing he was referring to Charles, Connor, and Candice.

She filled the kettle and put it to boil, then sat down opposite him and made him tea as they chatted about the incident.

“So what will happen to Sigrith and her two kids? What do you think we should do?” Sasha asked.

“I will go with any decision the old man makes.” With his eyes glued to the ledger in his hand, he nonchalantly answered Sasha.

Old man? Is he referring to Jonathan?

Sasha was dazed momentarily by that reminder. Indeed, Sigrith and her kids’ fates were in Jonathan’s hands. Only he could decide if they get to stay in the family.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1743

A New Life

Sigrith was aware of the current situation. As Jonathan came in after Sigrith finished bandaging her wound, she kneeled before him.

“What are you doing?”

Jonathan was shocked and quickly asked Sigrith to get up.

Nonetheless, Sigrith, who looked teary-eyed again, shook her head in response.

“Uncle Jonathan, we… didn’t know that Colton… isn’t a member of the Jadesons. He never told us about it. Besides, I’ve never done anything wrong ever since I became part of the Jadesons. Can you please let go of my two children?” Sigrith begged as she knelt on the floor.

It turned out that Sigrith was worried her two children would be in trouble because of their father’s deed. She was willing to let go of her dignity and life for her children’s safety.

Since her children’s grandfather was a rebel, Sigrith understood that no one would let go of them even if they moved out and lived elsewhere.

The next moment, Sigrith was taken by surprise because Jonathan answered without hesitation, “Nonsense! Why do I have to let go of the two kids? I mean, they didn’t do anything wrong! Moreover, even your husband Colton was forced to do it.”

“What did you say? Did someone force him to do it?”

Sigrith looked up at Jonathan in shock.

Am I hearing things?

“Yes, Eddie forced himself on Elizabeth back then. Just imagine who would willingly give birth to a raper’s child? Since the Jadesons and the Limmers were rivals, she deliberately wanted the Jadesons to accept the kid to take revenge against Eddie. Besides, she refused to let Eddie know he has a son.”

As Jonathan explained slowly, Sigrith couldn’t tell if he was lying and was overwhelmed with shock.

Staring at Jonathan, Sigrith thought she had found a glimmer of hope amid despair. After a while, she shivered in excitement.

“Uncle Jonathan, are you serious?”

“Of course. You can ask Sebastian if you don’t believe me. He went to Yartran in person to deal with the matter. Colton was killed by his mother because he wasn’t willing to succumb to her.

“Elizabeth suffered cognitive distortions after her life was ruined by Eddie. She forced Colton to become the next Eddie, but Colton refused. In the end, Colton handed over the map that depicted Eddie’s hidden forces around the world to Sebastian. Hence, do you think he would betray the Jadesons?”

Jonathan gazed at Sigrith gently and caringly as he was speaking.

I have made the decision. If the same grudge is passed on from generation to generation, both sides will never live in peace. Therefore, the best solution to resolve it is to be forgiving.

Sigrith burst into tears, for she was emotional and felt that a new life had just arrived. Then, she ran out of the room to look for her two children.

Shortly after, the children at Oceanic Estate could hear Sigrith’s kids burst into tears.

On the third floor, Sasha and the man in front of her looked at each other and smiled.

The next day was the New Year’s Eve.

As the lady of the house at Oceanic Estate, Sasha purposely invited Sigrith and her children to celebrate the new year together.

Sigrith gladly agreed as soon as she received the invitation.

With Sigrith and her children as guests, the atmosphere at Oceanic Estate became merry.

There were nine children at Oceanic Estate because Cameron had also arrived. After knowing Sigrith’s good news, Cameron didn’t want to be bothered by the elder at The Ataraxy but came to Oceanic Estate to celebrate the new year instead.

Also, Sasha had to fork out a considerable amount of money to prepare some gifts for the kids.

After the New Year’s Eve dinner ended, Jonathan was shocked because many children lined up before him.

Sasha said, “Grandpa, you don’t have to give them much. Sebastian has prepared gifts for them.”

Jonathan responded with a smile and began distributing his gifts to the kids.

Everyone knew that Jonathan wasn’t a stingy person. However, Sebastian recently kept an eye on Jonathan’s spending, for he didn’t allow Jonathan to buy cigarettes. Besides, Jonathan didn’t have much pension, thus leaving him no choice but to spend cautiously.

After Jonathan distributed the gifts, Jeffrey said, “Mommy, Great-grandpa gave me two hundred in cash.”

Immediately, Nina chimed in, “Me too!”

Sabrina and Jonathan were rendered speechless upon hearing it.

These scoundrels!

Nevertheless, Jonathan was delighted deep down.

After dinner, the adults began playing games, whereas the kids who had just received gifts went to the observation tower to play with firecrackers.

Vivian carried a lot of firecrackers and took Kurt to a spot with the best view.

Meanwhile, Susan couldn’t help but ask, “Why do I feel that something is wrong between them? Ian, are they-”

“Ahem… ahem…” Ian felt a little awkward.

Ian didn’t respond to Sabrina’s question. Since the garden was big enough, he took some firecrackers and brought her to another spot instead.

“Aunt Susan, may I ask what’s it like to study at your university? Can you ask my daddy to let me study there? I’ve heard that your university is a good place to study.”

“Ah?”

Susan, who was playing with firecrackers, gazed at Ian in surprise.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1744

All Geniuses Have Weaknesses

Susan regained her senses and asked curiously, “Are you intending to further your studies at my school? Aren’t you based at the research laboratory?”

Everyone in the Jadeson family knew that Ian’s genius was spotted by the research institute at a very young age and he was sent there to study.

As a result, Susan and her brother were extremely envious of him and lamented the fact that they just weren’t as gifted as he was.

But now, he’s telling me that he wants to study at my school?

Susan stared at him.

All she saw was her question causing him to avert his gaze by lowering his head. Pursing his lips, Ian replied, “Daddy wants me to help Uncle Solomon out.”

“Uncle Solomon?”

“Mmm-hmm. At Hayes Corporation. Since Aunt Ichika is giving birth soon, he will be extremely busy.”

Ian usually didn’t have much to say. But since he needed his aunt’s help, he made an effort to explain in detail.

As a result, Susan finally understood the situation.

This is indeed how life is. Ian isn’t just born smart but also comes from an exceptional family. As if that wasn’t enough, his family owns the largest conglomerate in the country.

Susan let out a sigh. “You can definitely come. However, our school’s faculty of finance isn’t that good. Hence, I’m afraid that your father won’t agree.”

Ian replied, “It’ll be fine, as I’ll study it on my own.”

Susan was momentarily speechless before finally agreeing to it.

That evening, Sebastian and Sasha received the request.

“Yariel, while Ian and I were playing with fireworks, he told me that he wanted to go to my university. I’m guessing that he might have trouble adapting to a new environment quickly. Therefore, by going to school together with me, we’ll be able to take care of each other.”

When no one else was around, Susan finally approached her cousin, Sebastian, and Sasha. Subsequently, she told them of Ian’s request and shared her view of the situation.

Just as she finished, Sasha, who was tidying up, was stunned.

To have even considered that, this girl is truly smart. Evidently, she has inherited the genes of the Limmer family.

Sebastian gave Susan another look.

“Do you think it’s a good idea?”

“There’s nothing wrong with Ian joining us, for my brother and I are studying there too. We might not be able to help much with his learning, but we can support him in his daily life,” Susan responded with finesse, causing Sasha to beam.

After putting the items that she was tidying up down, Sasha turned around and brought out a present that she had already prepared for Susan’s family.

“I’m amazed at how thoughtful you are. I’ll be honest with you, your cousin and I have been racking our brains over where to send Ian for his studies. Hence, your suggestion has helped put our minds at ease.”

“Really?”

Susan was surprised to receive the present Sasha had prepared.

Watching them by the side, Sebastian nodded too.

“Initially, we were considering sending him to North Chanaea University. Now that we have heard your proposal, we think it’s a wonderful idea. By the way, what is your major?”

“Finance and accounting,” Susan replied at once.

She was well aware of how exceptionally smart Sebastian was ever since she was young. Cognizant that he held the reins of power within the Jadeson family, she also treated him with utmost respect.

Nonetheless, she didn’t expect her cousin, whom she worshiped, to have given her her first present for the new year.

“That’s a good major to have. Anyway, I presume you’re a sophomore this year? Next year, you can join Hayes Corporation as an intern.”

“Really?” Susan was ecstatic.

As Hayes Corporation was the top conglomerate in the nation, it was the employer of choice for the majority. Even many of her classmates made entering Hayes Corporation their lifelong goal.

As a result, she was surprised that she had the opportunity to do so.

Finally, Susan was filled with excitement when she returned to The Ataraxy with her mother and brother.

“Mom, do you know that Yariel has asked me to intern at Hayes Corporation next year?”

“Really?”

When Sigrith heard it, she stopped what she was doing and turned to look at her daughter in disbelief.

Timothy reacted the same way too.

Susan reiterated. “It’s true. Yariel said so himself. However, he did add that whether or not I can continue to work there will depend on my performance.”

Sigrith replied, “That goes without saying, as they’re not a charity. Therefore, you have to work hard when you’re there, all right? After all, we do not want to disappoint them.”

Just as she spoke, her eyes began to moisten, for she had not expected such a development.

Previously, she was already grateful to those at Oceanic Estate for not holding her and her two children accountable.

Hence, she didn’t expect them to bestow upon her daughter such a gift. Evidently, Sebastian didn’t treat them as outsiders and still saw them as family despite the incident with the Limmers.

That night, Sigrith and her two children slept especially soundly.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1745

Prayer

By the time they awoke, it was already the new year.

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

Early in the morning, fireworks were set off at the heavily decorated Oceanic Estate. The loud explosions that ensued broke the silence of the castle gardens, waking up many who were still sleeping inside.

Sabrina demanded, “Who’s setting off fireworks so early in the morning? Is it that little rascal, Jaena?”

Devin answered, “It’s definitely not her. She slept at midnight after helping you do your nails. There’s no way she would wake up so early just to play with fireworks.”

With her face red in anger, Sabrina cursed, “Damn it.”

But in the end, she fell back to sleep in Devin’s arms with the thought of giving her daughter a huge present when she woke up.

The next moment, it was Sebastian and Sasha’s turn to wake up, for they had always been light sleepers.

Sasha asked, “Is it Vivi?”

Sebastian grunted, “Mmm-hmm.”

The same thought flashed across both their minds, as Vivian was indeed the naughtiest among their children.

When she realized that it was Vivian who was setting off the fireworks, she didn’t rush out to check if the latter was wearing a thick jacket anymore. Instead, she continued to close her eyes in Sebastian’s embrace.

After all, there was no need for both of them to worry about Vivian anymore.

“Why aren’t they waking up?”

With the sky still dark, Vivian wondered why no one in Oceanic Estate had woken up despite her having finished setting off all the fireworks.

Standing in the garden, she puffed her cheeks in exasperation while holding the lighter in her hand.

When Kurt, who was setting up the firework rockets on the ground, saw that she had stopped, he picked up the down jacket left at the side and draped it over her shoulders.

“Kurt, can I ask you something?”

“Hmm?”

“Why haven’t they woken up yet? On new year’s day in Jadeborough, there’s a competition to see who is the earliest to set off fireworks. Therefore, I woke up especially early today just so that I can beat everyone. However, there’s no reaction from them at all,” Vivian fumed as her anger intensified.

Kurt was equally amused as he was angry.

Is she being foolish? Given that she had woken up early to set off the fireworks, what’s the point in the others doing so?

Obviously, there was no way he could say that.

After putting on her furry hat for her and making sure that he had wrapped her snugly, Kurt suggested, “Since they’re still asleep, shall we go to someplace fun?”

“Huh?” Vivian’s dreamy eyes sparkled.

“Where are we going?”

“I heard that many are heading to the Warlock Church today to offer their first prayers for the new year. Shall we do the same and pray for your parents’ health?”

As he gave her a gentle look, her beautiful and glistening eyes filled his heart with an overwhelming sense of bliss.

Also, I would like to pray that you continue to stay safe.

When both of them finally set off amidst the gloomy morning, they could hear the incessant sound of firework explosions. Therefore, both of them rushed toward Warlock Church as fast as they could.

Actually, Vivian had been to the church before when she was young.

She could still remember that during that period, her parents were pressured by their enemies on all sides. In fact, Connor’s wife, Shirley, had even tried to poison her and her brothers by spiking their drinks.

Fortunately, Sasha foiled Shirley’s plan, which subsequently led to the latter’s death.

As Vivian and Kurt drove there at breakneck speed, they assumed that they would be the first to arrive.

Contrary to their expectations, a long queue had already formed the moment they did.

Vivian was stumped.

It’s just a prayer, why is there such a massive crowd here?

When she saw the queue that was tens of meters long, she began to have second thoughts.

“Kurt, why don’t—” When she turned around planning to tell him to forget it, she noticed that he had gone to a stall that sold offerings.

“Hi, I would like to ask what kind of offerings I should get on behalf of someone close?”

“Someone close? Which kind?” the vendor asked for more details, as there was a specific offering for every different occasion.

Some were for friends, while others were for the resolution of problems. Even the protocol of making them was different. Consequently, the vendor had to clarify the purpose.

The moment they heard the question, Vivian could see Kurt’s face ashen at once.

At the same time, his fingers, which were hanging by his side, began to ball into tight fists.

“It’s for my… mother.”

“I see. In that case, take these. Three to show your filial piety and three more to show your well-being.”

The vendor handed him the offerings.

Stunned, Kurt raised his gaze at him, “Offerings for well-being?”

The vendor explained with a gentle smile, “That’s right. By coming here to pray for her, you’re demonstrating your filial piety. As for your well-being, I mean that that’s your way of telling her that you’re doing fine.”

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1746

Who Is Pregnant With Twins

Kurt was dumbstruck.

Tell her that I’m fine?

Suddenly, he could feel something ravage his heart. It was as if the excruciating pain that he had hidden all this while had been released.

At that moment, his emotions overwhelmed him from all sides just like an avalanche. Unable to get a grip of himself in time, he felt his knees buckle as his body began to swoon.

“Kurt? Kurt?”

Vivian rushed to his side to support him.

In truth, she felt as if Kurt was behaving strangely over the last few days.

When he finally awoke in Yartran and returned to the country, he never brought up his mom or what happened to his family. In fact, his father, Roppell, was still around when he came back, but all he did was get the former to leave.

From then on, he never talked about the matter until that very moment.

“Kurt…”

When Vivian saw that his face had lost all color and that he was trembling mindlessly, she was seized with fear. All she could do then was hug him tightly and call out his name again and again.

Meanwhile, the vendor, who was taken aback, quickly rushed out of his stall.

“Kid, don’t be sad. What I meant was that… you’re fine. That’s what your mom wants to see. Therefore, it’s a good thing.”

Finally, Kurt looked up with a pale face and slightly trembling lips. In a raspy voice, he asked, “A good… thing?”

The vendor nodded. “Of course. Every parent in this world wishes to see their own children safe and sound. In fact, they are willing to sacrifice everything just for its sake.”

Kurt was stumped.

“Therefore kid, there’s no need for you to feel sad. My guess is your mom left this world feeling satisfied that she had given you a new lease of life,” the vendor comforted Kurt before patting him on the shoulder.

The moment felt really strange, for someone who was obviously a stranger seemed to know what had happened. Those magical few words that he uttered seemed to have pulled Kurt back from the brink.

Vivian was stunned by the realization.

As she stared at the vendor for a long time, she could feel the emotions in her heart crashing like raging waves.

Nevertheless, she wasn’t able to utter a single word at all.

Who is that person? How did he know what has been troubling Kurt all this while? If we hadn’t come today, what would have happened to Kurt in the future? Would he be tormented by the loss of his mother for the rest of his life, never to forgive himself?”

In the end, Vivian took the offerings and towed Kurt along with her. When they finally entered Warlock Church after queueing, she saw Kurt looking up at the giant statue of an angel inside.

In that instant, a tear dropped from the corner of his eyes.

“Kurt…”

“Vivi, going forward, we should live out our lives happily together, all right?”

He finally spoke in a raspy voice in front of the statue.

Live our lives happily together.

As her eyes began to redden, Vivian didn’t say a word. She held Kurt’s hand as both of them presented the offerings to the statue and knelt down.

We will live happily together for the rest of our lives.

Meanwhile, it was already past seven back at Oceanic estate. Everyone in the castle had gradually woken up.

Since it was the first day of the new year, they couldn’t wake up late, for there were lots to do.

As the lady of the house, Sasha had to go down to the kitchen and make breakfast, for all the maids had gone home for the holidays.

Whilst she was cooking, the unexpected sound of heels rang out from behind her.

“Why didn’t you wake me up? How are you going to manage alone?”

It was none other than Sabrina.

Sasha broke into a smile at the sight of her. “It’s no big deal. Didn’t you stay up late last night?”

“You should still wake me. After all, you’re not the only lady within the Jadeson household.” Sabrina was as unrelenting as usual. When she came over and saw that Sasha was done with the pasta, she began to prepare the eggs.

In truth, she was quite independent. After all, she had spent a few years alone on a deserted island.

It was just that she went on to meet a good man who spoiled her endlessly.

After busying themselves, breakfast was finally ready at a little past eight. Sasha proceeded to gather everyone to eat.

“Mommy, Uncle Solomon just called and asked us when are we going over to Avenport? He says that Aunt Ichika isn’t feeling too good. Hence, they might head to Jetroina in two days’ time. Therefore, if we are going to visit, we’ll have to make it before then,” Matteo hurried over to report the important matter.

Ichika isn’t feeling well?

The news caused everyone at the table to worry, especially Sabrina, who felt the need to make a call at once.

“Didn’t I tell him to be more careful considering that Ichika is pregnant with twins? Look at what has happened now on the very first day of the new year.”

Silence descended upon the table.

Twins?

Everyone gaped in surprise.

No wonder Sebastian has to send the three twins to take over Hayes Corporation. It turns out that this is big news indeed!

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1747

So Be It

Given the sudden turn of events at Solomon’s end, everyone at Oceanic Estate prepared to travel to Avenport once they had completed the celebrations on the first day of the new year.

As for the Coopers, they had initially planned to visit Oceanic estate on the second day. But after learning of the news, they visited that very afternoon instead.

“Happy New Year, Old Mr. Jadeson.”

Entering with gifts in his hands, Edmund was as high-spirited as usual. When he saw Jonathan, Devin, and the others, he burst into laughter as he greeted all of them.

After patting him on the shoulder, Devin led him to have coffee with Jonathan.

While the men went off for guys’ talk, the women were left behind.

Other than Tillie, Riley had also joined them on the visit.

“Riley, have you recovered? I heard that you were sick the last time you came back. How are you feeling now?” Sasha inquired with concern the moment she saw her.

After all, Riley was a big help when both her two children were in Yorksland and Elysium.

Riley shook her head. “I’m fine now. In fact, I recovered a long time ago. By the way, where’s Kurt? How is he? Has he recovered too?”

She quickly thought about Kurt.

Sasha explained to her that Kurt was doing all right.

Since it was the first day of the new year, everyone was in good spirits except for one person.

Standing amidst the laughter and joyous atmosphere, she looked a little dejected and seemed to be forcing a smile. In fact, the pale look on her face even made her look sick.

When she saw Tillie’s ashen look, Sasha pulled Riley aside and asked, “What happened? Is your sister-in-law not feeling well?”

Riley responded with a sigh.

“They got into an argument again last night. Since it was New Year’s Eve, Tillie spent the whole day preparing a scrumptious dinner. However, Edmund didn’t come home for dinner and spent the evening at someone else’s home.”

Sasha was dumbstruck.

She didn’t expect much from their relationship. But after so many years of them being married, she was shocked that Edmund was still fooling around.

“Riley, this can’t be allowed. You must talk to your brother. Look at how miserable Tillie looks. I sure hope that nothing is wrong with her,” Sasha reminded Riley.

However, Riley didn’t manage to read between the lines of Sasha’s words.

“Of course I did, but it has fallen on deaf ears. That aside, I’m sure you’re unaware that both of them made a pact when they got married.”

“A pact?”

Sasha was stunned.

Riley nodded. “Yup. I’m sure you’re aware that Edmund was forced to marry her so that he could launder my father’s assets. When Tillie finally found out, she pleaded with him to let her stay within the family. They would become friends and she wouldn’t interfere in his life. It was only then that Edmund agreed to it.” Riley finally revealed the matter with a sigh.

In truth, the matter had become a joke within their family.

It had been four years since they got married and Tillie made the verbal agreement. Throughout that period, Tillie never got pregnant as Edmund never slept with her. He had abided by the agreement just as she wished. All they did was maintain the front of a loving couple in public.

However, once they returned home, both of them behaved like strangers to each other.

Given the situation, Tillie became the butt of the other two Cooper sisters’ jokes.

How else can I advise him?

Riley was perplexed.

Sasha too was dumbfounded.

How did such a weird arrangement happen? Despite being a married couple, they had an agreement to just be friends when they should be like comrade-in-arms. Is she a fool? No wonder she looked terrible ever since we returned.

Since Sasha was a TCM specialist, it was obvious to her that something was physically wrong with Tillie.

Is she trying to torment herself to death? What was she thinking when she struck such an agreement with the man she loved?

Sasha found her unbelievable.

Finally, Sasha decided to talk to her in her capacity as both friend and doctor.

However, after searching through Oceanic Estate, she finally found Tillie sitting alone on the balcony, staring listlessly into the wind. She was a far cry from her once energetic self. In fact, there was a time when she would be relentless when it came to achieving her goals.

“Tillie, what are you doing? Why are you sitting in the wind? Be careful of catching a cold.”

Sasha hurried up to her side with the intent of pulling her back in.

However, Tillie continue to stare at the gloomy sky and the crashing waves down below. Suddenly, she asked, “Mrs. Jadeson, do you have any regrets in your life?”

“Huh?”

Sasha froze.

Regrets? What does she mean?

When Sasha looked down at her, she noticed the listless look in Tillie’s eyes as she stared blankly out into the freezing ocean water. Pursing her lips, Sasha finally decided to sit down and accompany the latter.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1748

“Of course I do. Who doesn't have any regrets in their lives?”

“Is that so?”

Tillie blinked upon hearing Sasha's answer.

Sasha nodded. “Yes. However, there's no cure for regrets. Therefore, I have to correct myself so that I don't repeat the same mistakes the next time.”

Tillie was stunned.

“The next time?” She thought that she had heard wrongly.

Do I still have one more chance? Given that I do not have much time left, that would be a luxury for me. If I truly get that opportunity, it would be in my next life.

Tillie squirmed the corner of her lips.

Finally, she got up from her chair obediently. When she followed Sasha back indoors, a vibrant smile had returned to her face.

“Mrs. Jadeson, I noticed that your three children have grown up a lot. Vivi in particular looks very different now.”

“Indeed.”

Upon hearing Tillie change the subject, Sasha followed suit and didn't continue with their earlier topic.

“Nevertheless, it's all thanks to Riley. She had taken good care of the children when they were in Yorksland.”

“No thanks are needed. She's obligated to do so anyway.”

The moment they discussed the matter, color began to return to Tillie's ashen face.

After all, Riley was the only person in the Cooper family to bring her cheer.

“By the way Mrs. Jadeson, there's something I want to trouble you with. It's related to Riley. Given her age, can you introduce someone to her?”

“Huh? Me?”

Caught by surprise, Sasha almost bit her own tongue.

Of all people, why is she asking me to be a matchmaker? Does she realize it's a bad idea? I'm not fit to be one at all.

Just as she spoke, Tillie let out a sigh by the side.

“That's right. Riley doesn't listen to the both of us. Furthermore, after what happened to Dad, she had lost interest in relationships and isn't willing to get married.”

“Erm...”

“Therefore, I figured that she would definitely agree to someone you matchmake her with. After all, you would definitely not do her harm.”

Tillie gave Sasha a hopeful look.

Her biggest wish now was to see Riley find happiness before she died.

In the event Edmund fell back into his old ways, Riley would be the only person carrying the burden of the entire Cooper family on her shoulders.

Even though she was a woman of the Cooper family, her two other sisters didn't even come close to being compared to her.

Sasha was startled again. But after giving it some thought, she saw the reason behind Tillie's suggestion. On top of that, she was fond of Riley too.

As a result, Sasha agreed to do so in the end.

“All right then, I'll talk to Grandpa about it and see if he has anyone compatible in mind.”

“Mmm-hmm. Thank you, Mrs. Jadeson.”

Tillie finally broke into her first smile for the new year.

After dinner, it was time for the Coopers to leave. As Edmund was utterly drunk after having drinks with Devin and the others, Tillie went over to help him when she saw the condition he was in.

However, the moment she touched him, he unexpectedly shoved her aside.

“Go away! I... I'll walk by myself.” Subsequently, he swayed side to side as he staggered out. In the end, Devin went to help him when he couldn't tolerate the situation any further.

The entire scene caused Riley to stomp her feet in anger.

That b*stard! I'll make sure to teach him a lesson when he wakes up tomorrow.

Riley then walked up to Tillie's side. “Tillie, about that...”

“I'm fine, Riley. Why don't you check if he left his bag behind? While you retrieve it, I'll go get the car,” Tillie plainly suggested as if she wasn't emotionally affected at all.

With that, she grabbed the car keys and went to start the car.

Riley was stumped.

Out of ideas, she had no choice but to do as she was instructed.

Feeling the urge to intervene, Sasha entered the room and walked up to Riley from behind.

“Riley, you had better keep a closer eye on Tillie, for her health doesn't look good.”

“What did you say?”

Riley raised her head immediately and stared at Sasha in shock.

The gravity of the situation finally dawned upon her.

This time, Sasha no longer held back and revealed her analysis, “I noticed that her eyes have a yellow tint to them and she often hunches her back. If my guess is correct, there's something wrong with her organs.”

Riley's mind was blown away.

Problems with her organs? How can it be? Tillie has never mentioned it before.

Riley was flabbergasted.

Without any delay, she grabbed Edmund's bag and ran after Tillie. However, she missed them by a few minutes, as the two of them had gotten into the car and driven off.

Inside the car, the drunken Edmund looked at Tillie, who was at the wheel, and mumbled, “Why haven't you changed?”

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1749

By the time Edmund woke up the next morning, it was already late in the day.

After he opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling for a while, he jumped out of bed immediately.

This isn't Cooper residence. It's one of the properties I bought a few years ago.

Suddenly, footsteps rang out from outside. A young woman in a beige knitted top and short grey skirt entered the room upon hearing the movements inside.

“Are you awake?”

Holding a bowl of hot broth in her hand, she was none other than his legally married wife, Tillie.

Edmund's heart tightened the moment he saw her.

“Why am I here? Didn't we return to Cooper residence last night?” he demanded in displeasure. After that, he lay down again, as soreness reverberated throughout his body.

Meanwhile, Tillie put the broth down on the table beside the bed.

“You were drunk last night and insisted on coming here. Hence, I have no choice but to comply.”

Laying in bed, Edmund finally fell silent.

After retracting his gaze from Tillie, he closed his eyes to rest briefly before sitting back up.

It was true that he disliked staying at Cooper residence.

After all, he was constantly irritated by the sight of Tillie. But since it was the holidays, he spent a few days there out of respect for her.

It looks like I was really drunk last night.

Edmund proceeded to the bathroom.

Just when he lifted the toilet bowl cover to poop, the wobbliness in his legs struck again. Also, the soreness in his hips felt as if he had done something vigorous the night before.

It actually aches every time I move. This is really weird, for I didn't do anything yesterday.

After washing up, Edmund came out of the bathroom.

“Let's go.”

He grabbed his jacket and prepared to head back to the Cooper residence.

However, Tillie, who was in the living room, didn't follow him out as expected. Instead, she watched him come down while remaining seated on the couch.

“Edmund, I need to talk to you.”

Talk? About what? Can it be that my sisters have caused trouble again? And that I need to clean up their mess?

Edmund's reflex was to think about his sisters, causing his expression to darken.

All these years, Tillie had managed the Cooper family affairs very well, to the extent that Edmund could delegate it entirely to her. It was for the same reason that he had to constantly hear from her about the problems his useless sisters caused.

Nevertheless, Edmund bore with it.

“What do you want to talk about? If they have gone overboard again, I'll teach them a lesson despite it being the new year.”

“It's not them.”

A hint of disappointment descended upon Tillie's face when she saw his expression.

That's how he always is. Without a doubt, he only cares about the Cooper family and his own affairs. I have never ever been a priority to him at all.

Lowering her head, Tillie brought something out of her bag.

“It's about this, Edmund. Let's get divorced.”

“What did you just say?”

Finally, she had managed to elicit a response from Edmund. When his gaze fell upon her, she saw for the very first time the astonishment in his eyes.

“Divorce? Are you pulling my leg?”

“No, Edmund. I'm serious. My father's health is deteriorating. Hence, I plan to return to our hometown with him so that he can rest there. Given that I'm the only child, there's no way I can ignore my parents,” Tillie calmly explained with barely any emotion on her face.

Her sadness, reluctance, and distraught were all well hidden.

Edmund stared at her as a sudden sense of dread set upon him. Before he could even digest her words, he demanded angrily, “What's the meaning of this? Are you abandoning your family for your father's sake?”

Tillie was speechless.

Edmund continued, “What's wrong with you? Is it necessary to make such a stupid decision over a matter like that? Come home with me right now!”

With that, he stormed out of the house.

Meanwhile, Tillie was stunned as she watched his leaving silhouette.

Is he unwilling to do so?

Back at Oceanic Estate, Sasha and the rest of the family had woken up early as they prepared for their trip to Avenport.

Jonathan asked, “How is Solomon going to entertain all of you? After all, they have children on their own, while Ichika is pregnant.”

Jonathan was upset that everyone was going to visit their relatives, leaving him alone at home.

Sasha was naturally amused by his response.

“Grandpa, don't worry. There will still be many relatives around. We are only staying there for a short while.”

“Hmph!”

In the end, Devin relented and stayed back with his son, Jeffrey.

At the same time, Sebastian requested one of the triplets to stay back too. Thus, Vivian volunteered with the excuse that it was inappropriate for Kurt to go.

After all, Kurt had to take care of his sister, Nina. Also, it would be weird for him to make the visit during the holidays since he wasn't related to the Hayeses at all.

His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1750

Vivian responded, “All right. We'll stay here to have some fun for a couple of days. Nina, you'll have to start attending elementary school soon, right?”

She then gently stroke the back of Nina's head.

Upon hearing that, Nina ran to Kurt and hugged his thigh. “I don't want to go to school.”

Kurt did not know how to react to Nina's plea. He looked at his sister's puppy eyes and went soft.

He squatted down and said to her, “If you want to do well when you grow up, you must go to school.”

“Why?” the seven-year-old could not quite understand what Kurt was implying.

Vivian then walked over and squatted beside Nina.

“We need to equip ourselves with the knowledge so that we live the life that we've always dreamed of. That's why I'm also studying hard so that one day I can become a successful designer.”

“Designer?”

“Yeah. I want to become a fashion and accessories designer. What do you think of the clothes I'm wearing now?”

To spark Nina's interest in education, Vivian stood up and spun around to display her clothes.

Yet, Nina did not resonate with Vivian's inspiration.

As a child who came from a war-torn region, Nina could hardly relate to materialistic values.

But Kurt knew the best way to get her attention was to get her to envision her future.

At first, he kept mum. After Vivian left, he gazed into her eyes and said, “Listen to me, Nina. You're no longer a princess, and we won't be going back to Elysium anymore. You understand?”

“But why?” The little girl instantly burst into tears upon hearing what he said.

Tears welled up in Nina's beautiful eyes, and her body started trembling.

She looked at Kurt in shock as she could not understand why she could not return to Elysium.

Why can't I become a princess again?

Kurt replied, “Because we don't belong to Elysium anymore. The monarchy should have been abolished a long time ago. We're living in a world where everyone receives equal treatment. The people in Elysium should be given such a privilege too.”

That remark rendered Nina speechless.

“So from now on, you must be independent and learn to survive on your own since you won't have servants to take care of you anymore. Don't dream of marrying into a wealthy family and living comfortably for the rest of your life. You must not forget about this!”

Once again, Kurt reminded his sister.

In Elysium, princesses from the royal family received everything on a silver platter.

Nina, too, enjoyed this kind of privilege despite being kept in confinement.

Before the abolishment of the Elysium monarchy, princesses were either married to prominent tribal chiefs or noblemen.

That was why Nina was stunned when Kurt told her that. “What about you, Kurt? Does that mean you have to study and work to earn a living?”

“Of course. After this, I'll be pursuing my studies overseas. After completing my studies, I'll get a job and make money to support your education. And...”

He then took a glance at the girl who was playing with Jeffrey.

Nina understood what Kurt wanted for his future.

I bet he's determined to marry Vivian.

Poor Kurt, I'm sure he'll have to work extra hard to prove that he's worthy of her love. I somehow feel his future in-laws are extremely rich. Perhaps they're even much wealthier than our royal family. Kurt might have to spend a lot on dowry if he plans to marry the girl of his dream.

Nina went into deep thought for a moment.

“All right. I'll attend school then. I want to master a skill that can help me earn lots of money.”

“Earn lots of money?”

“Yeah. I want to chip in some money to help you marry your wife too! I know we're no longer in the palace, and Mom is not with us anymore, but don't worry, I'm still around. I'll make lots and lots of money for you to marry Vivian!”

The little girl said with great confidence and patted Kurt's shoulder.

Kurt had no idea how to react to her words.

His face was flushed with embarrassment. He wished he could teach her a lesson by giving her two tight slaps on the cheeks.

Despite his embarrassment, Kurt was relieved that he managed to change Nina's mind.

When Kurt told Vivian that he had successfully persuaded Nina to go to school, Vivian immediately went to look for Jonathan to ask for his help to enroll Nina in a school.

But at that time, Jonathan was talking to someone over the phone.

“You'd be surprised how good I am in matchmaking. The daughter from the Cooper family is a nice and capable lady, and everyone in Jadeborough knows that. What's your concern? Do you think she's not compatible with your son?”

It's not even New Year, and Grandpa is already busy playing matchmaker?

He sounded as if he was threatening the family, though.

Vivian pulled Kurt aside and continued eavesdropping on the conversation. She wanted to know what arrangement Jonathan had in mind for Riley.