Ch. 1811..1820
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1811
Since age was catching up on Jonathan, he really longed for more opportunities to spend quality time with the younger ones.
However, as his great-grandchildren grew older, they became more independent and eventually drifted further from the family.
The obedient Ian obliged and sat down beside him.
“Are you settling down well in your new campus, Ian? How busy are you with your school work?”
“Not busy,” he answered honestly.
Then, he scooped a bowl of soup for Jonathan, making the latter very well pleased.
My eldest great-grandchild is such a sweet boy who is filial toward his elders.
After having several mouthfuls, Jonathan continued posting questions to Ian. “What about your classmates? Getting along well? I heard that you did a project for Hayes Corporation in between your studies. Can you cope with everything?”
“It's fine. I'm done with it now, and it's going to be launched very soon. If... you're free to drop by during the opening, Great-grandpa, Mark can bring you there.”
Unexpectedly, Ian invited Jonathan to go witness the fruit of his labor, the very first showcase of his solo venture into the corporate world.
“Really?”
Jonathan's eyes lit up in response. Having received an invitation out of the blue was like a highlight to his mundane lifestyle.
Ian nodded. “Of course! The building is located in the Old Town. Thus, I purposely designed an arcade for the senior citizens. You can enjoy yourself there with the others when you come to visit.”
“Hahaha...” Jonathan was over the moon.
“Wow, my oldest Great-grandson is so capable! Sure, that's excellent! I'll make sure I bring along my old comrades from Jadeborough to support you on your launching day.”
“Terrific!” Ian grinned.
By the time breakfast was over, Karl was already outside.
“Mr. Ian, the helicopter is ready. Let's take our leave.”
Ian's grimaced at that news.
Susan took the flight back to Pollerton that day.
She waited for hours at the airport, but the person who gave her the tickets did not show up. Finally, she gave him a call when it was time for boarding.
“Hello, the number that you've dialed is temporarily unavailable.”
Staring at her phone, a reminder from her mother before she departed her house that morning kept playing in her head.
Susan, don't take the private jet. Go for the flight. We've bothered them too much. Let us be reminded of our place.
At that thought, she kept her phone in her backpack.
Fifteen minutes later, the plane took off. She looked at the empty seat next to her and plunged into complete silence.
When she arrived at Pollerton, a southern city, she was greeted by the monsoon season. As soon as she got out of the airport, dark clouds hovered above her head. The endless drizzle shrouded the entire city like a rain curtain.
“Miss, do you need a cab?”
“No thanks, I'm taking the bus.”
With only a couple of hundred in her purse, she strode to the bus station nearby.
The rain got heavier. Though the distance between the airport and the station was only a mile, she had already gotten herself drenched shortly after she exited the airport without an umbrella.
Luckily, she did not need to wait very long for the next bus heading to downtown.
Hence, she got herself a ticket and boarded the bus.
“Hello? Are you in class, Timothy? Otherwise, please come pick me up at the station. I don't have an umbrella with me.
When she was about to reach her destination, the rain had not stopped. She gave her brother a call and urged him to come quick.
Where's Timothy?
Although he was a happy-go-lucky guy, he cared for his sister a lot. When he heard that Susan was on her way back, he hurriedly borrow a friend's moped to go fetch her.
“Susan, you're alone? Where's Ian?”
In the midst of the incessant pitter-patter, that was the first thing that came to Timothy's mind when he saw Susan.
She pressed her lips, got herself up the moped, and put on her raincoat.
Subsequently, she grabbed the hem of Timothy's shirt and said, “Well, his family sent him back separately. By the way, did you get into any trouble when I was away these two days?”
“What are you trying to imply? Why would I get into any trouble? I've been working my a** off, attending lessons everyday.”
“Fine. Ian will be back soon. Let's head back to the apartment first. I need to get changed while you go for marketing. Then, I'll make us all a meal before we go for our classes this afternoon.” Susan had it all planned out.
Just as Susan had predicted, Ian returned to the apartment half an hour after their arrival.
“You're finally back, Ian? Why is your private helicopter so slow? My sister is back for a while now,” Timothy grumbled jokingly while mopping the living room when Ian walked into the house.
Instantly, the latter's expression changed.
“Where is Susan?”
“She's cooking lunch in the kitchen. You're back at the right time. She's almost done. We were just waiting for you.” Timothy pointed at the range hood, in the direction of the kitchen.
Ian fell silent.
My eldest great-grandchild is such a sweet boy who is filial toward his elders.
After having several mouthfuls, Jonathan continued posting questions to Ian. “What about your classmates? Getting along well? I heard that you did a project for Hayes Corporation in between your studies. Can you cope with everything?”
“It's fine. I'm done with it now, and it's going to be launched very soon. If... you're free to drop by during the opening, Great-grandpa, Mark can bring you there.”
Unexpectedly, Ian invited Jonathan to go witness the fruit of his labor, the very first showcase of his solo venture into the corporate world.
“Really?”
Jonathan's eyes lit up in response. Having received an invitation out of the blue was like a highlight to his mundane lifestyle.
Ian nodded. “Of course! The building is located in the Old Town. Thus, I purposely designed an arcade for the senior citizens. You can enjoy yourself there with the others when you come to visit.”
“Hahaha...” Jonathan was over the moon.
“Wow, my oldest Great-grandson is so capable! Sure, that's excellent! I'll make sure I bring along my old comrades from Jadeborough to support you on your launching day.”
“Terrific!” Ian grinned.
By the time breakfast was over, Karl was already outside.
“Mr. Ian, the helicopter is ready. Let's take our leave.”
Ian's grimaced at that news.
Susan took the flight back to Pollerton that day.
She waited for hours at the airport, but the person who gave her the tickets did not show up. Finally, she gave him a call when it was time for boarding.
“Hello, the number that you've dialed is temporarily unavailable.”
Staring at her phone, a reminder from her mother before she departed her house that morning kept playing in her head.
Susan, don't take the private jet. Go for the flight. We've bothered them too much. Let us be reminded of our place.
At that thought, she kept her phone in her backpack.
Fifteen minutes later, the plane took off. She looked at the empty seat next to her and plunged into complete silence.
When she arrived at Pollerton, a southern city, she was greeted by the monsoon season. As soon as she got out of the airport, dark clouds hovered above her head. The endless drizzle shrouded the entire city like a rain curtain.
“Miss, do you need a cab?”
“No thanks, I'm taking the bus.”
With only a couple of hundred in her purse, she strode to the bus station nearby.
The rain got heavier. Though the distance between the airport and the station was only a mile, she had already gotten herself drenched shortly after she exited the airport without an umbrella.
Luckily, she did not need to wait very long for the next bus heading to downtown.
Hence, she got herself a ticket and boarded the bus.
“Hello? Are you in class, Timothy? Otherwise, please come pick me up at the station. I don't have an umbrella with me.
When she was about to reach her destination, the rain had not stopped. She gave her brother a call and urged him to come quick.
Where's Timothy?
Although he was a happy-go-lucky guy, he cared for his sister a lot. When he heard that Susan was on her way back, he hurriedly borrow a friend's moped to go fetch her.
“Susan, you're alone? Where's Ian?”
In the midst of the incessant pitter-patter, that was the first thing that came to Timothy's mind when he saw Susan.
She pressed her lips, got herself up the moped, and put on her raincoat.
Subsequently, she grabbed the hem of Timothy's shirt and said, “Well, his family sent him back separately. By the way, did you get into any trouble when I was away these two days?”
“What are you trying to imply? Why would I get into any trouble? I've been working my a** off, attending lessons everyday.”
“Fine. Ian will be back soon. Let's head back to the apartment first. I need to get changed while you go for marketing. Then, I'll make us all a meal before we go for our classes this afternoon.” Susan had it all planned out.
Just as Susan had predicted, Ian returned to the apartment half an hour after their arrival.
“You're finally back, Ian? Why is your private helicopter so slow? My sister is back for a while now,” Timothy grumbled jokingly while mopping the living room when Ian walked into the house.
Instantly, the latter's expression changed.
“Where is Susan?”
“She's cooking lunch in the kitchen. You're back at the right time. She's almost done. We were just waiting for you.” Timothy pointed at the range hood, in the direction of the kitchen.
Ian fell silent.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1812
Since age was catching up on Jonathan, he really longed for more opportunities to spend quality time with the younger ones.
However, as his great-grandchildren grew older, they became more independent and eventually drifted further from the family.
The obedient Ian obliged and sat down beside him.
“Are you settling down well in your new campus, Ian? How busy are you with your school work?”
“Not busy,” he answered honestly.
Then, he scooped a bowl of soup for Jonathan, making the latter very well pleased.
My eldest great-grandchild is such a sweet boy who is filial toward his elders.
After having several mouthfuls, Jonathan continued posting questions to Ian. “What about your classmates? Getting along well? I heard that you did a project for Hayes Corporation in between your studies. Can you cope with everything?”
“It's fine. I'm done with it now, and it's going to be launched very soon. If... you're free to drop by during the opening, Great-grandpa, Mark can bring you there.”
Unexpectedly, Ian invited Jonathan to go witness the fruit of his labor, the very first showcase of his solo venture into the corporate world.
“Really?”
Jonathan's eyes lit up in response. Having received an invitation out of the blue was like a highlight to his mundane lifestyle.
Ian nodded. “Of course! The building is located in the Old Town. Thus, I purposely designed an arcade for the senior citizens. You can enjoy yourself there with the others when you come to visit.”
“Hahaha...” Jonathan was over the moon.
“Wow, my oldest Great-grandson is so capable! Sure, that's excellent! I'll make sure I bring along my old comrades from Jadeborough to support you on your launching day.”
“Terrific!” Ian grinned.
By the time breakfast was over, Karl was already outside.
“Mr. Ian, the helicopter is ready. Let's take our leave.”
Ian's grimaced at that news.
Susan took the flight back to Pollerton that day.
She waited for hours at the airport, but the person who gave her the tickets did not show up. Finally, she gave him a call when it was time for boarding.
“Hello, the number that you've dialed is temporarily unavailable.”
Staring at her phone, a reminder from her mother before she departed her house that morning kept playing in her head.
Susan, don't take the private jet. Go for the flight. We've bothered them too much. Let us be reminded of our place.
At that thought, she kept her phone in her backpack.
Fifteen minutes later, the plane took off. She looked at the empty seat next to her and plunged into complete silence.
When she arrived at Pollerton, a southern city, she was greeted by the monsoon season. As soon as she got out of the airport, dark clouds hovered above her head. The endless drizzle shrouded the entire city like a rain curtain.
“Miss, do you need a cab?”
“No thanks, I'm taking the bus.”
With only a couple of hundred in her purse, she strode to the bus station nearby.
The rain got heavier. Though the distance between the airport and the station was only a mile, she had already gotten herself drenched shortly after she exited the airport without an umbrella.
Luckily, she did not need to wait very long for the next bus heading to downtown.
Hence, she got herself a ticket and boarded the bus.
“Hello? Are you in class, Timothy? Otherwise, please come pick me up at the station. I don't have an umbrella with me.
When she was about to reach her destination, the rain had not stopped. She gave her brother a call and urged him to come quick.
Where's Timothy?
Although he was a happy-go-lucky guy, he cared for his sister a lot. When he heard that Susan was on her way back, he hurriedly borrow a friend's moped to go fetch her.
“Susan, you're alone? Where's Ian?”
In the midst of the incessant pitter-patter, that was the first thing that came to Timothy's mind when he saw Susan.
She pressed her lips, got herself up the moped, and put on her raincoat.
Subsequently, she grabbed the hem of Timothy's shirt and said, “Well, his family sent him back separately. By the way, did you get into any trouble when I was away these two days?”
“What are you trying to imply? Why would I get into any trouble? I've been working my a** off, attending lessons everyday.”
“Fine. Ian will be back soon. Let's head back to the apartment first. I need to get changed while you go for marketing. Then, I'll make us all a meal before we go for our classes this afternoon.” Susan had it all planned out.
Just as Susan had predicted, Ian returned to the apartment half an hour after their arrival.
“You're finally back, Ian? Why is your private helicopter so slow? My sister is back for a while now,” Timothy grumbled jokingly while mopping the living room when Ian walked into the house.
Instantly, the latter's expression changed.
“Where is Susan?”
“She's cooking lunch in the kitchen. You're back at the right time. She's almost done. We were just waiting for you.” Timothy pointed at the range hood, in the direction of the kitchen.
Ian fell silent.
My eldest great-grandchild is such a sweet boy who is filial toward his elders.
After having several mouthfuls, Jonathan continued posting questions to Ian. “What about your classmates? Getting along well? I heard that you did a project for Hayes Corporation in between your studies. Can you cope with everything?”
“It's fine. I'm done with it now, and it's going to be launched very soon. If... you're free to drop by during the opening, Great-grandpa, Mark can bring you there.”
Unexpectedly, Ian invited Jonathan to go witness the fruit of his labor, the very first showcase of his solo venture into the corporate world.
“Really?”
Jonathan's eyes lit up in response. Having received an invitation out of the blue was like a highlight to his mundane lifestyle.
Ian nodded. “Of course! The building is located in the Old Town. Thus, I purposely designed an arcade for the senior citizens. You can enjoy yourself there with the others when you come to visit.”
“Hahaha...” Jonathan was over the moon.
“Wow, my oldest Great-grandson is so capable! Sure, that's excellent! I'll make sure I bring along my old comrades from Jadeborough to support you on your launching day.”
“Terrific!” Ian grinned.
By the time breakfast was over, Karl was already outside.
“Mr. Ian, the helicopter is ready. Let's take our leave.”
Ian's grimaced at that news.
Susan took the flight back to Pollerton that day.
She waited for hours at the airport, but the person who gave her the tickets did not show up. Finally, she gave him a call when it was time for boarding.
“Hello, the number that you've dialed is temporarily unavailable.”
Staring at her phone, a reminder from her mother before she departed her house that morning kept playing in her head.
Susan, don't take the private jet. Go for the flight. We've bothered them too much. Let us be reminded of our place.
At that thought, she kept her phone in her backpack.
Fifteen minutes later, the plane took off. She looked at the empty seat next to her and plunged into complete silence.
When she arrived at Pollerton, a southern city, she was greeted by the monsoon season. As soon as she got out of the airport, dark clouds hovered above her head. The endless drizzle shrouded the entire city like a rain curtain.
“Miss, do you need a cab?”
“No thanks, I'm taking the bus.”
With only a couple of hundred in her purse, she strode to the bus station nearby.
The rain got heavier. Though the distance between the airport and the station was only a mile, she had already gotten herself drenched shortly after she exited the airport without an umbrella.
Luckily, she did not need to wait very long for the next bus heading to downtown.
Hence, she got herself a ticket and boarded the bus.
“Hello? Are you in class, Timothy? Otherwise, please come pick me up at the station. I don't have an umbrella with me.
When she was about to reach her destination, the rain had not stopped. She gave her brother a call and urged him to come quick.
Where's Timothy?
Although he was a happy-go-lucky guy, he cared for his sister a lot. When he heard that Susan was on her way back, he hurriedly borrow a friend's moped to go fetch her.
“Susan, you're alone? Where's Ian?”
In the midst of the incessant pitter-patter, that was the first thing that came to Timothy's mind when he saw Susan.
She pressed her lips, got herself up the moped, and put on her raincoat.
Subsequently, she grabbed the hem of Timothy's shirt and said, “Well, his family sent him back separately. By the way, did you get into any trouble when I was away these two days?”
“What are you trying to imply? Why would I get into any trouble? I've been working my a** off, attending lessons everyday.”
“Fine. Ian will be back soon. Let's head back to the apartment first. I need to get changed while you go for marketing. Then, I'll make us all a meal before we go for our classes this afternoon.” Susan had it all planned out.
Just as Susan had predicted, Ian returned to the apartment half an hour after their arrival.
“You're finally back, Ian? Why is your private helicopter so slow? My sister is back for a while now,” Timothy grumbled jokingly while mopping the living room when Ian walked into the house.
Instantly, the latter's expression changed.
“Where is Susan?”
“She's cooking lunch in the kitchen. You're back at the right time. She's almost done. We were just waiting for you.” Timothy pointed at the range hood, in the direction of the kitchen.
Ian fell silent.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1813
Zaylynn was eagerly hoping for Ian to thank her for the notes, but he didn't seem to need them at all.
Despite being absent for two days, Ian was able to keep up with the lessons just fine. In fact, he even seemed a little impatient and annoyed at how slow the lecturer was progressing through the syllabus.
Although Zaylynn felt disappointed that her strategy of preparing the notes had failed due to Ian's high level of intelligence, she still had other tricks up her sleeve.
“By the way, Ian, I booked you a spot for Professor Rind's lecture this Friday! It wasn't easy, but I managed to get you a front-row seat!”
Ian turned around and glanced at her upon hearing that. “Professor Rind?”
Thinking she had struck gold, Zaylynn got really excited as she introduced the professor, “Yeah! Professor Andy Rind is the most famous professor in this university! He used to be a leading figure of Wall Street in Moranta! I heard he was very influential at that time!”
Andy was indeed Sasha's boss when she was working in Wall Street back then, so what Zaylynn said wasn't exactly far from the truth either. In fact, Andy used to be so powerful that he was bold enough to take on Hayes Corporation.
That man posed such a huge threat that Dad had to deal with him personally, and now, he ends up working as a professor here in this university?
Ian became interested in Andy after recalling his history with Sasha. “Okay, what time is his lecture on Friday?”
“Ten in the morning!” Zaylynn replied excitedly while holding all ten of her fingers up.
Yes! He agreed to it! My dream guy has agreed to attend the lecture with me!
As Ian had accepted her invitation, his attitude toward her warmed up a little. He even allowed her to sit next to him in the market analysis practical session after that.
The main problem, however, was her immense lack of intellect.
“Ian, I don't know how to solve this. Could you teach me?” she asked coquettishly.
Naturally, Ian ignored all of her questions as usual.
Yasmin was attending that same class as well, and she glared coldly at Zaylynn when she heard her coquettish voice.
“What are you doing, Zaylynn? We're in class right now. This isn't the time for you to be having discussions. You can ask the lecturer if you have any questions,” she said sternly.
Naturally, Zaylynn wasn't about to just take that without fighting back.
“I'm not having a discussion! I'm consulting Ian on something I'm not sure of! What, you got a problem with him teaching me?”
“You...”
Yasmin was livid with rage upon hearing that, but Zaylynn didn't seem to care at all.
She even pulled a face at Yasmin and flashed her a smug grin just to rub it in.
Since they were both girls, it was only natural that Zaylynn noticed Ian being close with Yasmin. As such, she was deliberately trying to spite her as much as she could.
Time went by rather quickly, and the class was soon over.
Right when they were about to end the lessons for the day, news about the university's prepaid cards being hacked spread all over campus.
“Hey, did you hear? The amounts stolen were worth tens of thousands! They say it's the girls from the Faculty of Finance that did it!”
“Really? How did they pull off such a crazy stunt? That's so scary!”
“I know, right?”
The university's forum was exploding with comments discussing the incident.
Susan was coming over to pick Ian up after class when she saw Zaylynn and a few of her closest friends being taken away by the chief administrator.
Huh? What happened?
As she had been busy with classes in the Faculty of Business Administration, she had no idea what was going on at all.
“What's going on? Why are they being taken away?” she asked the student standing next to her.
“You didn't hear? Zaylynn lent her family's credit card to her friends so they could splurge on the university's prepaid cards! Someone exposed what she did, and now they're being taken away for investigation!” the student explained angrily.
What? Seriously? Has Zaylynn lost her mind? She's the one who will bear the cost in the end if they're using her family's credit card! Not only has she ruined her reputation, but she also literally pays the price for her actions!
Susan thought to herself in shock after hearing that.
Unsure of what to make of it, Susan was about to head on in when someone called out to her from behind, “Susan?”
“Huh?” She turned around in response, only to see a pretty girl standing behind her.
She was wearing a pair of jeans and a black T-shirt with white stars on it, giving her a refreshing yet cold appearance.
That girl was none other than Yasmin herself.
“What is it, Yasmin?”
“Oh, I just wanted to ask you why you two went home so suddenly yesterday. Did something happen?” she asked directly.
Unlike how reserved and conservative she was when faced with Ian, she was able to be completely open and direct with Susan.
Susan's expression turned slightly gloomy as she replied, “Yeah, something came up.”
“What happened? Is it a problem within his family? Why didn't you tell me about it yesterday? Did you know that he lashed out at me after you left? He even ignored me completely! I've been worried sick for the past two days!” Yasmin exclaimed angrily.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1814
Being a girl that prioritized her studies over everything else, she rarely cared about others.
However, all of that changed ever since she came across Ian.
Yasmin found herself wanting things between them to return to the way they were at the start. On top of that, she also wanted him to share all of his problems with her alone.
She would feel overjoyed whenever he looked at her, and him being cold toward her would upset her more than anything else in the world.
Yasmin really hated this side of her, but she simply couldn't help it. The fact that Ian went to his aunt first when faced with trouble left her in a really bad mood.
“It's nothing, really. By the way, you mentioned something about him lashing out at you?”
“Yeah... I thought he didn't want me accompanying him, but it looks like he was in a bad mood because of what happened in his family. Am I right?” Yasmin asked with a pout.
Susan simply fell silent as she recalled how Ian had smashed the smartphone angrily in front of her when she got back.
“Susan?”
“Yasmin, I think you should stay away from him in the future,” Susan replied with an expressionless face all of a sudden.
Yasmin froze.
“W-What did you just say? Could you say that again?”
“Ian doesn't like you, Yasmin. I suggest you stop pestering him and keep your distance from him the next time you see him on campus,” Susan said coldly before walking off.
Ian definitely doesn't like Yasmin, or he wouldn't have lashed out at me and smashed the phone like that. Heck, he even accused me of making decisions on his behalf! Wait... So, that's what he was so mad about yesterday? D*mn, why didn't I realize it sooner? I'm so dumb!
Susan smacked herself on the forehead in frustration at the thought of that. It was at that moment that she made up her mind to stop Yasmin from pestering Ian any further.
She had barely taken a few steps when someone grabbed her by the arm from behind.
“What are you talking about, Susan? Could you repeat what you just said earlier?”
The look on Yasmin's pretty face had become extremely stern and somewhat vicious in an instant.
Susan frowned as she glared at her hand.
“Have I not made myself clear enough for you?”
“No, you most certainly have not! You clearly told me to go all out in courting him! Not only did you give me your full approval, but you even encouraged me and supported my pursuit! Why are you suddenly telling me to stop now? What's the meaning of this, huh?” Yasmin was so mad that she practically spat those words out.
What the heck is she playing at? She was the one who offered to help me win Ian over! She said she would give me a chance, so why is she telling me to stay away from Ian now that I have finally decided to abandon my pride and dreams in pursuit of him? How could she do this to me?
With that in mind, Yasmin continued with a crazed expression on her face, “Does toying with the feelings of others run in your family or something? You Limmers hurt my brother in the past, and now you're going to hurt me too? Are we just pawns to you guys? Is that it?”
They were causing such a huge commotion that everyone passing by stopped and stared at them.
Susan went pale instantly and instinctively took a few steps back upon hearing that.
“N-No... That's not it...” she stammered.
Yasmin maintained her fierce glare as she asked, “Is that so? In that case, why does it matter who I pursue? Don't tell me you actually want to keep him all to yourself?”
Unable to contain her emotions any further, Susan snapped back at her, “No! He's my nephew, and I won't let you slander us like that!”
“Then stay the heck out of my way, Aunt Susan!” Yasmin retorted and shot her a disdainful look before walking off.
Susan simply stood there staring blankly into space in complete silence.
It wasn't until everyone left that she came back to her senses and slumped weakly to the ground.
She felt like a part of her had been removed, and it left her feeling empty inside.
Having been excellent in everything she did growing up, she had never expected to be pressured that much by the Limmer family name.
It brought her constant fear and allowed others to humiliate her wherever she went, even though she didn't do anything wrong.
Susan felt so broken that she couldn't even muster the strength to get back on her feet.
Suddenly, someone came forward and stood before her.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1815
“What did she say to you?”
The voice sounded so cold that it sent shivers down Susan's spine when she heard it.
She looked up at the person in response and went pale upon seeing who it was. “Ian? H-Has your class ended already? She didn't say anything in particular. Let's head back now that your class is over.”
Not wanting to worsen the situation, Susan tried to get out of there as quickly as possible.
However, Ian wasn't about to just let it slide like that. The look in his eyes grew cold when he saw that she refused to tell him the truth, and he walked off immediately after.
“Ian? Where are you going? Come back here!”
Susan was so frightened that she quickly ran after him and grabbed him by the arm.
“Let go of me!”
“I won't let go! It's fine, Ian! Don't go after her! She doesn't like me, to begin with, so it's normal for her to say some mean things once in a while! Please don't blow this out of proportion!” she pleaded while holding on to his arm as tightly as she could.
Ian paused and decided to not chase after Yasmin in the end. However, he still sent out a text upon heading out the front gate.
A few minutes later, Hayes Corporation's hiring manager came running out of the Human Resources Department.
“Who's in charge of recruitment for the internship program this year?”
“I am, Sir,” replied an elderly staff.
The hiring manager waved at the staff as he said, “Is there an applicant named Yasmin Snow from University of Pollerton? I want her name deleted from the system right away! Also, arrange for Susan Jadeson to be an intern in the Finance Department!”
“Yes, Sir!” the elderly staff replied and deleted Yasmin's name from the list immediately.
Being a huge company, it was only natural for Hayes Corporation to contribute to society. As such, the company would hire a bunch of interns during summer vacation every year. On top of that, it was also a way for the company to discover more talents among the youth and possibly recruit them into the company in the future.
Yasmin's application went through a bunch of screening tests before finally being approved, so it was truly a shame that she got disqualified like that.
The atmosphere in the apartment was as peaceful as usual that night.
“Ian, Timothy, I made us some soup! Come help yourselves in the kitchen!” Susan called out to them as she tidied up the kitchen counter and took her apron off.
“Aren't you going to have some too, Susan?” Timothy asked when he saw her leaving the kitchen.
“You two go on ahead. I still have some revision to do,” Susan replied before hurrying off to her bedroom.
Ian saw Timothy helping himself to the soup when he entered the kitchen.
“Ah, there you are! Here, have some soup!” Timothy said while pointing at the bowl of soup prepared for him.
“Where's your sister?” Ian asked while sitting down at the table.
“She's doing some revision. She missed out on quite a lot in the past two days, and she has a test coming up in a few days.”
Huh? Another test?
Ian stared blankly at him in confusion.
“Haven't you heard? She failed her exam the last time, so she did some digging and found out that there was an issue with the test questions. The university is letting her sit for the exam again,” Timothy explained when he saw Ian's clueless expression.
Little did he know, Ian was actually oblivious to the fact that Susan botched her exam.
“Actually, there is no need for her to take the exam,” Ian replied calmly.
“Huh? What do you mean? Are you saying that you can get her a position in your family's company?” Timothy looked up at him in surprise upon hearing that.
“Yes, that's right,” Ian mumbled as he carried on sipping on his soup.
Despite his best efforts to maintain a calm expression, Timothy's penetrating gaze caused him to feel awkward and unnatural.
Timothy was so touched that he gave Ian a few pats on the shoulder as he exclaimed, “Tsk, tsk, tsk... You sure are a considerate nephew, aren't you? It's too bad my sister probably wouldn't agree with your arrangement!”
Ian looked up at him immediately. “Why? Why won't she agree with it?”
“You may not know this, but she doesn't like relying on connections to get what she wants. Instead, she prefers to fight for what she wants and earn it all by herself. Honestly, you have no idea how annoying that can get! She's always scored first in school every year!” Timothy got a little annoyed upon mentioning that.
Because of how excellent Susan was, their parents have always doubted his capabilities since he was a kid. The difference between him and Susan was so huge that they often joked about him being adopted.
Although Ian knew she wouldn't accept his kind offer, he didn't get mad at her because of it.
The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1816
Leave Her Alone
Instead, his eyes were filled with admiration and respect when he glanced at Susan’s bedroom door. He then quickly finished up his soup and prepared to leave.
“Hey, where are you going? Aren’t you going to do the dishes?” Timothy called out to him.
“I’m busy! There are a lot of things that I need to take care of!” Ian replied as he ran off.
The next morning, Ian was reading his electronic book while seated behind Susan as usual when she drove him to campus.
The two of them zipping through the little park near the university was quite a sight to behold.
“Ah, Susan, you’re here! Professor Shaw is looking for you.”
“Oh, really?”
Professor Shaw was the person in charge of her exam, so Susan stopped her moped upon hearing that.
“You head on over, then. I’ll go to the Faculty of Finance by myself.” Ian said as he got off the moped.
“All right. Take care now!” Susan replied with a smile before giving that student a ride to their faculty.
“Your nephew sure is handsome, Susan! I heard he’s the hottest guy in the Faculty of Finance! No, I think he’s the hottest guy on campus!” said the student jokingly as she and Susan were quite close.
Susan didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when she heard that.
“What are you going on about? Focus on your studies!”
“I just want to know if your nephew has a girlfriend. If not, maybe you could get us both introduced or something! Since we’re such good friends, it’ll make the whole process a lot easier!”
Susan deliberately put on an angry expression as she shouted through clenched teeth, “Oh, shut up!”
Little did they know, Ian had been standing there the whole time and overheard everything they said.
Yeah, this is how youth should be! Free from drama, schemes, and conspiracies… A young woman like her should be enjoying life to the fullest and shine brightest among everyone else!
With that in mind, Ian turned around and began heading over to his faculty building.
He had barely taken a few steps forward when another moped pulled up beside him.
“Ian? What are you doing here?” Yasmin asked in surprise when she happened to pass by and saw him standing there.
The look in Ian’s eyes turned cold instantly upon seeing her. He then ignored her completely and carried on walking, leaving Yasmin rooted to the spot with her face all pale.
However, she bit down on her lip and refused to give up when she saw the breakfast she had bought him.
“Ian, want me to give you a ride? We’re still quite far away from our faculty building. Oh, and I also bought breakfast! It’s the sandwiches you said you liked! Would you like to have some?” she asked while cruising slowly beside him.
Ian simply kept on walking without saying a word, much to her disappointment. As they arrived at a corner, Zaylynn showed up and asked, “Good morning, Ian! Why are you walking to class? Want me to give you a ride?”
Before getting into her car, Ian turned around and shot Yasmin a cold glare as he said, “I don’t know what gave you the courage to continue hitting on me, but you’d better stay out of my way if you want to continue studying here.”
Those words hit her like a bolt from the blue and stabbed at her heart like a knife.
“Why is that?” Yasmin asked while trembling all over.
“Why, you ask? Do you really need me to tell you what you did? Don’t think that you can do whatever you want to Susan just because you know the Limmer family’s secret. Keep in mind that I can have you silenced permanently if I so much as feel like it!”
Ian sounded sinister and terrifying like a devil when he said that.
Yasmin felt like the world around her had been plunged into darkness.
“You… Are you going to kill me?”
“I won’t kill you because you’re Duncan’s sister, but I can keep you locked up somewhere far away for the rest of your life!” Ian replied viciously.
Yasmin’s eyes went wide with shock when she heard he would keep her imprisoned for life.
That was when she truly realized what Susan meant when she said Ian didn’t like her, and that he was only nice to her because of Duncan.
How could they do this to me? I’m the victim here! It’s the Limmers and the Jadesons who destroyed my family!
Yasmin thought to herself as she stood there and watched Ian leave in Zaylynn’s car.
Her fists were so tightly clenched that her nails dug deep into her palms, and her eyes were bloodshot from anger.
A few minutes later, she pulled out her phone and replied to an email that had been pending her action for a long time: I’m in!
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1817
Saved You A Seat
Susan did very well on her paper, having almost scored full marks.
Even the professor was happy for her.
“With grades like these, Susan, you could go anywhere you want. Have you decided where you would like to apply for an internship?”
Susan decided to be frank. “Yes. I sent my resume to Hayes Corporation.”
Hayes Corporation! They’re ranked first in the country.
The professor gazed at her approvingly as nothing made him happier than seeing his students get a good start in their careers. “Good on you to aim high! I’d be happy to write you a recommendation letter when I return. Rest assured, Susan. You’re getting in.”
Susan was overjoyed.
After exiting the faculty building, she did not wait to break the news in her Whatsapp group with the other two.
Susan texted: Good news, guys. I passed!
Ian was the first one to reply: Congratulations!
Timothy chimed in next: Should I expect a celebratory meal? I’m feeling KFC tonight.
This freeloading brother of mine!
However, Susan was in a very good mood and agreed.
She replied: KFC on me tonight, then. By the way, what are you two doing?
Timothy responded: I’m playing ball with the management department next door. Having a blast!
Ian, however, answered: I am in Professor Rind’s lecture.
Susan perked up. Professor Rind? The Wall Street Investor turned teacher?
She hurriedly texted: I’m coming over. Do you have a spot available? It’s always packed whenever this professor gives a lecture. Latecomers never get seats.
Timothy chimed in again: What’s so interesting about that professor?
Susan retorted: Shut up!
Ian texted: There still are. Come on over.
Susan’s eyes lit up in anticipation as she rented a bicycle and took off toward the lecture hall at the other end of the university with her knapsack on her back.
As the Faculty of Business Administration was inherently related to finance, a lecture given by such a legendary figure with his Wall Street credentials would only benefit her.
Despite making it there as quickly as she could, Susan discovered to her dismay that even the exterior of the lecture hall was crammed with hopeful students holding their laptops at the ready, trying desperately to glean something from the speaker within.
I knew it! Looks like all of them had the same idea as me.
Grimacing while muttering awkward apologies, Susan squeezed her way through.
Fortunately, she quickly spotted the handsome young man through the dense crowd sitting in the first row. Next to him was a girl with her hair in a topknot clad in a cute floral dress.
Zaylynn?
Susan was stunned.
“Over here, Susan!” The girl had also spotted her and was already beckoning frantically with her arms.
The sound of her name roused Susan out of her reverie.
Only Ms. Neal is capable of knowing no embarrassment.
Striding over to her friends as inconspicuously as she could, Susan squeezed herself into Zaylynn’s seat.
“You could have told me you were coming, Susan. I would have reserved three seats.”
“That’s all right. I’ve only just found out from Ian today that Professor Rind is giving a lecture. A single seat should fit two skinny girls like us.”
Gazing at the girl’s indignant yet delighted expression at her presence, Susan could not help returning the smile as she was fond of Zaylynn.
Though she’s loud and not very bright at times, her heart’s in the right place.
Without wasting any more time, Susan started her laptop.
“Here’s what happened before you arrived,” Ian offered as he slid his notes over.
Susan took the notebook from him and perused it quickly.
“God, he’s amazing. We were never taught any of these in class.”
“He is,” Zaylynn said proudly. “Why else would I save you a seat?”
Susan tousled her friend’s bun and grinned in response.
It did not take long for her to catch up with the help of Ian’s notes. Soon, she could not only keep up with Andy’s lecture, but she had also begun taking her notes.
“Remember, many factors cause fluctuations in exchange rates. Therefore, conducting a thorough market analysis should always be the first step. Factors such as the military, crude oil, and natural disasters are major determinants of the market’s direction. If you find that they pose a risk to your investment, you must stop immediately.”
Characteristic of a Wall Street investor, Andy’s speech was bold.
However, every word of his rang true as the market would either plummet or skyrocket from the determinants he mentioned, regardless of the nature of the financial instruments.
“I have a question, Professor,” a voice came from the middle of the lecture hall. “Some of the factors you mentioned are beyond our ability to predict. How can we stay ahead of them?”
Susan’s writing hand froze as that very question had occurred to her.
Though the discovery of crude oil may contribute to market fluctuations, the prediction of military instability and natural disasters were factors that most civilians would not be able to foresee.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1818
Catch A Ride
Yes, how can we stay ahead of them?
Seated atop the stage, Andy suddenly sighed.
“Good question. This brings me to my next point: talent!”
“I know that it’s not appropriate to talk about this at university where meritocracy is the norm,” he continued with a wink, “but we have to admit that it plays a role. Some people, like this friend of mine, are able to spot innocuous clues at a glance.”
At the sudden mention of his friend with such prophetic abilities, the students in the hall began to engage in a buzz of speculations. They were eager to learn the identity of such a talented individual.
Susan was one of them.
“She is a woman,” Andy proclaimed, smiling with pride and nostalgia. “A decade younger than me, but what a talent she had for financial forecasting. In fact, she predicted the famous oil riot in Zaewora and made me a fortune.”
The mysterious introduction only served to excite the students even more.
“Who is she, Professor? Where is she working now? Is there any chance of her giving a lecture?”
Andy chuckled.
“She’s retired from public life and is very happy remaining home with her husband and children. Even I am unable to make an appointment with her,” he remarked only half-jokingly.
It’s true. She’s a powerful woman now. I’m not even qualified to shine her shoes.
The lecture lasted a full two hours. The sun was already disappearing down the western horizon when the trio emerged from the lecture hall.
“This professor is really something, Ian,” Susan exclaimed as she went over her notes again. “He talks about these things that our syllabus never covers. Even a student of finance and accounting such as myself found it enlightening.”
Ian merely nodded without comment.
On the other hand, Zaylynn nodded off during the lecture. Eager to participate in the conversation as she was, she found herself lost in their jargon.
“I found it interesting too,” she chimed in. “Especially the part about his friend. It shocked me to hear about such powerful women in the world today!”
Susan nodded vigorously in agreement.
Ian made a surprising response to that. “He’d exaggerated a little. Though he did make a fortune from the oil riot back then, he had forced the person to do it for him.”
The girls stared at him with their mouths wide open.
“How do you know?”
“Because that friend he spoke of is my mother,” Ian remarked casually before striding ahead with his schoolbag on his back, leaving the girls behind thunderstruck by his proclamation that was uttered with as much enthusiasm as if it had been a statement of fact.
His mother!
Susan was in complete awe. Right before they were about to exit the gate of the university on their way to dinner, she suddenly remembered. “Was your mother ever in Hayes Corporation?”
“Of course,” Ian answered. “She used to be the director of the operational department.”
I never knew Sasha to be as well-versed in finance as in medicine! That explains how her son managed to complete the building project so beautifully at only seventeen years of age. He has great genes.
“Wait a minute. Where are you guys going?” Zaylynn cried. Keen not to be left behind, she stamped her feet before hurrying up to them. “Can I come along? I did reserve a seat for you today, didn’t I? It was hard work, you know.”
Though Ian frowned at the intrusion, Susan readily agreed.
“The more the merrier, Zaylynn. We’re having KFC for dinner, is that all right with you?”
“Of course,” Zaylynn said at once. “I’m not picky.”
Waving her chauffeur away, she hopped on a bicycle like the others and set off with Susan and Ian.
The warm hues of the sunset made the scenery surrounding the campus look as though it had been kissed by fire. Engulfing the entire city in yellow and orange, the setting sun cast elongated shadows of the trio onto the road they made their way to dinner amidst yells and jests of youth.
Unbeknownst to them, a figure appeared behind them after they left.
With a stack of books in her arms, the figure stood there expressionlessly as she watched them leave. The unsettling aura her presence emitted caused those who passed by shudder involuntarily as they gave her a wide berth.
Why does this girl look so scary?
“Hello, Yasmin. What are you doing here? Are you getting ready for work again?”
The sudden mention of her name in a voice laced with concern appeared beside her.
The speaker was the secretary of the student council, Jacques.
Yasmin withdrew her gaze and looked at him with its hostility retracted.
“Where are you going, Jacques?”
“I was just about to head home. Would you like a ride?”
Jacques was a local who lived with his upper-middle-class family. Upon being told by Yasmin that she was working part-time, he took pity on her and offered to drop her at her workplace.
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1819
Destruction
It was usually the warm and caring traits of board members that afforded them the opportunity to hold such positions.
Therefore, it was not out of character for Jacques to make that offer.
Yasmin tilted her head in consideration of the offer for a moment before agreeing. “Thanks for the trouble, Jacques.”
“No worries,” he replied cordially as he reached over to open his door for her. “We’re all classmates after all.”
When they passed the famous bridge near their campus, Yasmin turned her head slightly and saw the four figures outside through the car window.
“Did the university not deal with Zaylynn, Jacques?”
“How can they? The Neal family is one of the shareholders of the university,” Jacques explained patiently with his eyes on the road. “Besides, it was an honest mistake on Zaylynn’s because she did not know that what she did was against the rules. As soon as the incident had occurred, she immediately confessed to the chief administrator and used her family’s money to make up for the loss incurred by her mistake. With all said and done, the university has decided to consider the matter resolved.”
In his opinion, Zaylynn’s mistake was forgivable as she did not do it out of malice. Coupled with the fact that she confessed to her mistake almost immediately, the university decided to give her another chance.
Jacques was not aware of the effect of his words in causing the gaze of his passenger seated behind to become colder.
Ten minutes later, Jacques pulled up at the side of the most prosperous commercial plaza in the city.
“Here we are, Yasmin. Take care of yourself at night, won’t you? Don’t get home too late. If you ever feel like you can’t cope with juggling work and study, I can help you apply for financial aid.”
“I’ll bear that in mind,” Yasmin said as she exited the car. “Thank you, Jacques.”
Financial aid. Yes, times are tough for me now. What about the offspring of the murderer? Why are they able to sit around and enjoy the sunshine without a care in the world for their daily expenses, let alone worrying about their future?
Stewing in bitter thoughts, Yasmin walked to the gate of the square.
To her further resentment, she did not expect to run into the four figures on their bicycles as soon as she had changed into her apron at the cafe she worked at.
“Are we dining in that KFC?” Zaylynn asked. “Should we park our bikes here?”
“That works,” Timothy answered. “It’s not far, anyway. Let’s walk over.”
With a general murmur of assent, the quartet parked their bicycles in the square.
After locking hers, Susan came over and saw Ian frowning before producing his own phone to scan the QR code provided at the designated spot.
“There is a QR code provided, Ian,” Susan said gently. “Just scan it and your bike will be automatically locked.”
Ian merely grunted but the knot in his brow instantly relaxed.
After ensuring that everybody had managed to successfully lock their bicycles, the group marched forward. Zaylynn’s boisterous debate with Timothy regarding the best-tasting flavor of chicken wings made her a perfect match for him.
How childish!
With a scoff, Susan ignored them and turned her attention to the boy walking beside her.
“Have you had KFC before, Ian?”
“Not often,” Ian admitted.
For a prominent family like the Hayes’, KFC was something they did not particularly patronize. Besides, Sasha’s attention to the health of her family turned her away from deep-fried food.
As a result, Ian had only had KFC several times when he was much younger and not anymore as he entered adolescence.
Susan grew a little worried.
“I’ll get you something else later. Let’s order you a steak at a different restaurant.”
Ian refused gently. “That’s all right. Let’s dine together.”
Soon, all four of them arrived at KFC. As soon as Zaylynn and Timothy entered, they made a mad dash to the counter to place their orders.
Susan and Ian simply exchanged a glance before getting a table.
“Let’s sit here, Ian.” Having found a table just right for four, Susan pulled her friend over to occupy it.
Ian obediently sat down.
It was a strange feeling for him as he rarely dined in such public places. Even if he did, it was always with his parents at higher-end and cleaner restaurants.
As he was seated here watching the traffic of other patrons, Ian suddenly realized that he did not seem to mind as much as he did from the way he meekly accommodated Susan’s requests.
“We’re back,” Zaylynn announced excitedly as she returned with a large tray. “Status report: two burgers each, five packets of spicy wings, two packets of fries, and a large jug of Coke. How does that sound?”
Susan clicked her tongue in disapproval.
“That’s too much food, Zaylynn. We won’t be able to finish all of that.”
“That’s all right,” Zaylynn said with a generous wave of her hand. “We can share it with our classmates and those homeless people outside.”
Susan was dumbstruck with incredulity and amusement.
Ian, who was sitting next to her, also raised his eyebrows as a smile played on his lips.
When Timothy returned with another tray of food, the group’s laughter stopped abruptly.
The group was so full after their meal that Zaylynn had to summon an errand boy to bring their leftovers back to the university.
Yasmin caught a glimpse of the errand boy’s departure while on duty in the cafe beside the mall. Without hesitation, she reached behind her and undid her apron.
“Where are you going, Yasmin?” came the shrill voice of her employer.
“There’s something I have to attend to. I’ll be right back.”
His Secret Lover Returning from the Dead Chapter 1820
Something Bad Happened
Susan and the others returned home right after their meal. Zaylynn, too, got home after calling her chauffeur to pick her up.
Ring, ring, ring…
The Neal residence’s landline rang, breaking the silence of the night. The sharp ringing jolted the housemaid who was on night duty.
Why would someone call at this hour?
The housemaid opened her eyes and ran downstairs to answer the phone. “Hello?”
“Bad news. There has been a homicide case at the university, and the victim is a student. It is said that she ate something Ms. Neal had bought for her before she died. The cops are heading to the Neal residence right now.”
“Wait, what?” The housemaid was thunderstruck.
The cops arrived a dozen minutes later. Zaylynn’s father, Feynman Neal, got downstairs in haste before he could even button up his shirt neatly. When he arrived at the door, he saw a police patrol car parked right in front of his house.
“Sorry to disturb you at this hour, Mr. Neal. There has been a homicide at the University of Pollerton. According to reports, the deceased consumed something your daughter brought for her. We came to take your daughter to the police station to assist in the investigation.”
One of the cops presented his ID and told Feynman they would have to take Zaylynn away.
Homicide?
Feynman’s expression darkened as he had never encountered an incident like that before. “Sorry, sir, what do you mean? What do you mean someone consumed my daughter’s food and died? Are you trying to say my daughter poisoned the person?”
“Calm down, Mr. Neal. We’ll know what happened once the investigation is complete,” the cop consoled him.
Meanwhile, Zaylynn also came downstairs after hearing a commotion. She staggered and nearly fell after seeing all the unsmiling cops in the living room.
“Mom—”
The cops eventually took Zaylynn away.
Meanwhile, the coroner performed an autopsy on the deceased and found out she died from exsanguination after a stomach rupture.
Stomach rupture? How did it happen?
The Neal family could not believe their ears when they received the update.
“We found a chemical component called diethyl phthalate, known as DEP, in the deceased’s stomach. The deep-fried food she ate reacted with the chemical component, causing her stomach to rupture.”
The coroner then took out a piece of burnt item, which he had retrieved from the deceased’s body, and placed it before the cops and Feynman.
Diethyl phthalate? DEP?
Feynman had no clue what that chemical component was. Zaylynn looked even more confused.
The coroner then glanced at her manicured nails. Upon noticing the glitter on her nails, he broke a tiny piece of it with a tweezer.
“Hey, my nails!” Zaylynn shrieked in dismay.
A few minutes later, the coroner returned with another update—he found DEP in Zaylynn’s nails.
“Many nail salons in the market use unsafe and non-compliant products that contain excessive chemical components. I tested your daughter’s nail polish and discovered excessive organophosphates on it. Do you know what that is?”
Feynman and Zaylynn kept mum, as they did not know the answer to his question.
“It’s a combustible substance that can cause explosions!” the coroner concluded firmly.
Upon hearing that, Feynman staggered and fell to the ground. Zaylynn’s mind went blank when she saw the cops walking in her direction with a pair of handcuffs.
No! I’m innocent. I didn’t kill her. I didn’t kill her!
The next day, Susan, Ian, and Timothy only learned about Zaylynn’s arrest after reading the messages their coursemates sent to their group chat.
Timothy was the first to come across that piece of news in the group chat.
“Zaylynn killed someone? How is that possible?” Timothy read the message while brushing his teeth in the bathroom.
Upon reading the message, he was so stunned that he spewed a mouthful of water.
Susan heard some commotion and walked to the bathroom to check on him. “Hey, what’s wrong with you?”
“Quick! Read the messages in our group chat. Someone from our university died last night, and the cops think Zaylynn is the murderer!” Timothy urged Susan to check her phone right away.
Susan returned to her room and checked the messages immediately. She was just as shocked as Timothy when she found out that Zaylynn had been accused of the murder.
She turned to Ian and asked in disbelief, “What do you think?”
“Let’s try to get more information about the case first.”
Ian, who had changed into clean clothes, replied calmly, and he was not going to sit idly by. Upon dropping his words, he carried his backpack and walked to the door to change into another pair of shoes.
Susan urged Timothy to keep up with Ian while she walked behind the two boys.
Zaylynn is not the murderer. I’m sure about that! Though she can be a little spoiled and arrogant, she’s not an evil person! Besides, what can she gain from killing that student? It’s not like she held any grudges against the deceased anyway!
The three of them soon arrived at campus.
“Let’s divide and conquer. I’ll head to the female dorm. It’ll be more convenient that way,” Susan proposed.
“All right. I’ll talk to the school authority then.” Ian nodded, volunteering to handle the most important task. Reaching out to the official source might give them more accurate details.
Timothy decided to approach students around the campus to gather more information. He would primarily focus on the few students who had spread the news in the WhatsApp group.
Susan arrived at the female dorm a few minutes later. “Hi, I’m Susan Jadeson from the Faculty of Business Administration. I heard that a homicide happened here. Is it true?”