Ch. 111..120
Chapter 101 Outside the Prosperous Dynasty. A middle-aged man in a suit and tie sweated profusely. It was York Smith. The main representative of the Smith Group. He rushed over immediately after he received his son’s call. He was terrified after seeing the situation outside the Prosperous Dynasty. ‘What the hell did this useless son of mine do?’ A soldier approached and pointed at York. “You, go in.” “Okay.” TE York was finally able to enter the Prosperous Dynasty. His heart palpitated as he walked inside. The place was filled with armed soldiers, and many wounded people were carried away. He was terrified when he arrived at the basement and saw Yoel, bruised from all the beatings, beside Daniel with a star on his shoulder. “General.” His legs went weak, and he fell to his knees. “Dad, waah! Take me away quick!” he sobbed desperately. York stood up and swung his limbs at Yoel. “You useless piece of trash! What have you done?” Daniel scolded him, saying, “That’s enough. Stop embarrassing yourselves here. Take him and go. Also, bring the kid on the ground back to the Callahans’ house safely. We’ll deal with you guys later.” York’s heart skipped a beat as he heard this. Then, with his feet, he kicked Yoel a few more times.
“You useless trash! I’ll kill you.” “Did you not hear me? Since you’re not willing to leave, detain these two and bring them…” York was terrified upon hearing him. He picked up David lying on the ground and grabbed Yoel, quickly leaving the place. Outside, inside the car. York’s face was covered in sweat. He tugged his tie and loosened his collar. His shirt was soaked wet. He drove far away and came to a stop. Then, he took out a cigarette and lit it up. “What the hell did you do, you dumb*ss?” He cursed as he took a puff of his cigarette. Alieutenant general under the Blithe King, Daniel, with a military rank of one star, led his troops into the Prosperous Dynasty. The floor was full of security guards and gangsters all the way. All of them lay on the ground screaming in pain. Seeing such a scene, Daniel’s face trembled slightly. “This…” “How did Xander of the Prosperous Dynasty get on James’ nerves?’ Daniel wentto the basement. There, he saw more than twenty people. All of them were Xander’s subordinates. The unconscious David was also spotted, with Yoel laying on the ground. He could not get up. Meanwhile, Xander’s lifeless body was beside them. “Deal with the corpse and detain all these people,” Daniel glanced at them and ordered. Seeing this, Yoel hurriedly explained, “General, general! Don’t detain me….I didn’t do anything. I’m Yoel from the Smiths… “Hmm?” Daniel stopped, glanced at Yoel contemptuously, and kicked him. “Who cares about the Smiths? What family is that? Why did you have to offend James? Why do you have to cause our commander so much trouble? You won’t be spared if you make him mad!” Yoel was kicked to the ground. However, he quickly got up and pleaded, “No, you can’t detain me. James… James instructed me to bring his brother back home.” Yoel was not stupid. He immediately caught on and pointed at the unconscious David. “This guy is the younger brother of James’ wife. He asked me to bring him back safely.” “Oh?” Daniel glanced at the unconscious David and immediately understood the situation. Xander messed with Thea’s younger brother. No wonder…’ “Then what are you still doing here? Get out right now,” Daniel cursed and kicked him again.
It was due to these people who went around provoking others and ended up messing with James. Thus, the Blithe King had to wipe his *ss after he caused trouble. Sob. Yoel was so anxious that he shed tears. He wanted to leave. However, he had broken bones, and even walking was a problem, let alone taking David away. At that moment, a fully arried soldier entered and asked, “General, there’s someone outside claiming to be York Smith? He said liis son was inside. Do I let him in?” Daniel glanced at Yoel and waved his hand. “Let him in and tell him to take this piece of trash away quickly.” “Alright.” Dynasty. A middle-aged man in a suit and tie sweated profusely. It was York Smith. The main representative of the Smith Group. He rushed over immediately after he received his son’s call. He was terrified after seeing the situation outside the Prosperous Dynasty. ‘What the hell did this useless son of mine do?’ A soldier approached and pointed at York “You, go in.” “Okay.” York was finally able to enter the Prosperous Dynasty. His heart palpitated as he walked inside. The place was filled with armed soldiers, and many wounded people were carried away. He was terrified when he arrived at the basement and saw Yoel, bruised from all the beatings, beside Daniel with a star on his shoulder. “General.” His legs went weak, and he fell to his knees. “Dad, waah! Take me away quick!” he sobbed desperately. York stood up and swung his limbs at Yoel. “You useless piece of trash! What have you done?” Daniel scolded him, saying, “That’s enough. Stop embarrassing yourselves here. Take him and go. Also, bring the kid on the ground back to the Callahans’ house safely. We’ll deal with you guys later.” York’s heart skipped a beat as he heard this. Then, with his feet, he kicked Yoel a few more times. “You useless trash! I’ll kill you.” “Did you not hear me? Since you’re not willing to leave, detain these two and bring them…” York was terrified upon hearing him. He picked up David lying on the ground and grabbed Yoel, quickly leaving the place. Outside, inside the car. York’s face was covered in sweat. He tugged his tie and loosened his collar. His shirt was soaked wet. He drove far away and came to a stop. Then, he took out a cigarette and lit it up. “What the hell did you do, you dumb*ss?” He cursed as he took a puff of his cigarette. “Sob. Dad, I can’t tell you. I’ll be dead if I say anything,” Yoel cried. “You can’t tell me?” York frowned upon hearing his answer. “Dad, I offended someone extremely influential. He was someone who ordered around the Blithe King. What should I do? Am I doomed?” “What the hell is going on?!” York roared. “…I was interested in Thea from the Callahan…. Yoel roughly explained the situation.
However, he did not dare to mention James’ name. He simply brushed it off as someone was backing up Thea and killed Xander, then ordered the Blithe King to take care of the aftermath. As for the details, he kept it a secret. “Who’s that person? “Dad, please don’t ask about him. I’ll die if I tell you. You also can’t tell anyone about what happened today. Our family will be doomed if word gets out. That guy he killed was Xander! He killed him without batting an eye. Right after that, he called the Blithe King. It didn’t take long for the general to show up here.” Yoel’s body trembled. He could help but shudder as he thought about what had happened. “You can’t get anything done and only get into trouble,” York reprimanded him and shouted furiously. “Who exactly did you offend? You have to tell me at least his name.” “It’s…It’s James. Thea’s husband, James! Dad, you can’t tell anyone. James said that if word gets out, I’ll have the same fate as Xander! York frowned at the answer. He thought it was some very influential figure, yet it was trash like James? ‘Isn’t he the son-in-law that married into the Callahans? ‘It’s impossible for him to have so much power. ‘How is it possible for him to order the Blithe king to wipe his *ss?’ York was confused and could not understand how a useless son-in-law could have so much authority. However, he understood that news of what had happened could not be spread. Otherwise, the Smiths would be finished! What sort of man was Xander? He was a criminal overlord of Cansington. He owned many more assets than the Great Four but was murdered easily. The Smiths were nothing close to Xander. “Useless.” He scolded Yoel immediately. “Hurry up and send David back home. Beg for mercy in person and make sure to get Thea’s forgiveness. No, I have to go in person…”
Chapter 102 The inilitary was dispatched. They sealed off the Prosperous Dynasty and arrested many people. The news caused an uproar in Cansington. “The Blithe King sure is enthusiastic! The first person he went after was Xander.” “‘I heard that Xander used to deal in some dirty business in the past. After years of cleaning up his business, he finally started doing some legal business. However, many lives ended in his hands, and there was a lot of dirt on him.” “Haha, it sure is satisfying! Black Wind Xander has finally been arrested! Even if he didn’t fall under gunfire this time, he will surely spend the rest of his life in jail!” The people of Cansington gossiped about what happened. All the major families had instructed their family members not to cause any trouble during this and lay low. It would cause their families many problems if they got targeted by the Blithe King. Thea’s family home. The whole family sat on the sofa in the living room. No one said anything, and the atmosphere was tense. Thea sat on the sofa like she had lost all her energy as tears rolled down her face, and she looked wretched. Seeing her state, Gladys also felt a little guilty.
She was mocked and endured much suffering because of Thea over the years. In front of outsiders, she was also unable to lift her head high. However, Thea had always been well-behaved and obedient. “Thea, I really didn’t have a choice either. We won’t be able to save your brother through Yoel’s connections if you don’t divorce James. You shouldn’t only think about yourself and be more considerate about your brother. Plus, Yoel is a much better choice than James. I’ve already learned from my past and don’t want you to end up like me in the future. I don’t want you to live unable to raise your head in front of others for the rest of your life.” Thea wept as soon as Gladys mentioned the matter again Knock! Knock! Knock! Someone knocked at their door. “Alyssa, go open the door.” “Okay, Mom.” Alyssa stood up and opened the door. At the door was a middle-aged man in a suit with his tie loosened and a few unbuttoned buttons. He looked distressed when she opened the door. Carried on his back was another person. “D-David?” Seeing David on York’s back, Alyssa instantly shouted. She immediately invited York into the house. “Quick, come in quickly!” York walked into the house with David on his back. Along time had passed, and David also regained consciousness. Although he was severely beaten, Xander knew how to hold back. Apart from some external injuries, there were no broken bones. York placed David on the sofa.
“David!” Alyssa burst into tears after seeing David’s state. Benjamin poured some water for York and said, “Thank you for sending David back home.” “You must be employed by Mr. Smith, right? Where is Mr. Smith?” Gladys asked. York gasped. He calmly analyzed the situation. James had such a great influence that even the Blithe King was cautious of him. However, the Callahans did not seem to know James’ real identity. Since they were not aware, York did not expose him either. He was a clever man and immediately knew how to deal with the situation. Dealing with it well would not only ensure the Smiths’ safety but also gain the favor of someone really influential. “My incompetent son got beaten up by Xander. He was slightly injured and had to pay a visit to the hospital, so I had to bring Mr. Callahan back for him,” said York. Hearing his reply, the fainily was collectively dumbfounded. ‘Incompetent son?’ This was York from the Smiths?’ “You…May I ask for your name?” Gladys exclaimed in disbelief. “Are you possibly Mr. York Smith, the chairman of Smith Group?” “You don’t have to call me sir. Yes, I am York.” “Ah! It is you, Mr. York! Please do have a seat,”Gladys immediately invited York to sit down. She never expected him to be the famous York Smith to personally bring David home. Seeing Thea sitting in the corner in sorrow, Gladys immediately called for her, “Thea, what are you still doing there? Come over and greet Dad.” “Uncle,” Thea stood up and greeted.
Chapter 103 “Oh no, please don’t!” York stood up immediately, saying, “Ms. Thea, just call me Mr. Smith.” “Mr. Smith, my daughter will get a divorce from James as soon as possible. She’ll be free to marry Yoel after that, who has mentioned that he will not shun Thea. Even though Thea and James have obtained their marriage certificate, she’s still a virgin. She won’t be an embarrassment to the Smiths.” “Oh no, this is unacceptable!” York said, “Madam Hill, let’s not mention it. Thea and James are the perfect couple. Forget about my useless son! Thea’s way out of his league. Let’s leave it and not bring it up anymore!” Gladys looked confused. “Mr. Smitli, does it bother you that Thea is a divorcee?” “No, of course not! Haven’t you heard of the ancient saying, ‘It’s better to burn bridges than to destroy marriages’? Ms. Thea and James are in love. We should forget about it!” After finding out how powerful James was, York would be an idiot to request that Thea divorce James. If the divorce went through, the Smiths would be destroyed! Now, all they could do was wait for James to cool down. At the same time, it would do them well to maintain a good relationship with the Callahans. “Mr. Smith, what…” Gladys did not know what else to say.
“Well, that’s it, then. I’ll be on my way now. Oli, please tell James that my son will not be bothering Thea again.” With that, York left in a great hurry. His son was still in the car downstairs, waiting to go to the hospital. Although Yoel had made several grave mistakes, lie was still his son. After York left, the Callahans were left confused. After spending a few million dollars on getting David back, this was it? “Dave, how are you feeling? I’ll take you to the hospital now.” Alyssa looked at David, wlio was lying on the couch. She was so worried that she almost burst into tears. Listlessly, David waved his hand. “I-I’m fine. Just beaten up and strung up for a few hours. I lost consciousness for a while due to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to my brain, but I’m fine now.” Gladys pulled herself out of her thoughts. She had no time for them anymore. She approached David. “Dave, are you alright? Let’s go to the hospital.” “Mom, I’m fine. We don’t have to go to the hospital.” “We must. Look at you. You’re covered in bruises and injuries. Benjamin! Why are you still standing there? Carry your son downstairs and take him to the hospital.” “Yes, dear.” Benjamin carried David or his back All of them sent David to the hospital where he underwent several tests. It was only after the doctors cleared him that they all returned. Once they were home, Thea looked at Gladys eagerly. “Mom, Mr. Smith said that there’s no need for James and me to get divorced. Can you…” “How strange!” Knowing that David would be fine, Gladys was relieved. Now that she had calmed down, she thought the entire matter even stranger. Looking at Thea, she said, “Do you think that Mr.
Smith thinks poorly of you, so he doesn’t want you to be with his son?” “Mom, no matter what, Mr. Smith doesn’t want me as his daughter-in-law. As for James…” “Thea, this is for your own good. Even if you’re not with Yoel, you could choose someone else. What’s the point of being with James? What about Bryan Grayson? He admires you, doesn’t he? The Graysons are an inportant family from the Capital, even more influential than the Smiths.” “Mom…” Thea started tearing up. “David’s okay now. Are you still forcing my hand? David’s your son, but I’m your daughter too. I should have the right to choose my own partner.” Seeing Thea cry, Gladys siglied deeply. “Whatever I do, I do for you. I don’t want you to end up like me. Since you insist on not getting a divorce, James can return. I suppose he’s not completely useless. He does have some medical skills, and he’s a good housekeeper at the very least.” She had rejected twenty percent of Eternality’s shares after al… She had let it go. This was what the rest of her life was going to be like. She no longer hoped that Thea would marry into a wealthy, powerful family and make her proud. Now, as long as Thea was happy and they all lived in harmony, it was enough. “Thanks, mom.” Thea burst into happy tears. She called James from the balcony at once. “Jamie, we’re no longer getting a divorce. Please come home.”
Chapter 104 James went to Cominon Clinic after leaving Prosperous Dynasty. However, Henry was out. As he had the keys to the clinic, he let himself in. Ceasing operations for the day, he shut the door behind him after entering. He was going to take a nap in the back room. He had not slept well these few days, planning to catch up on his rest using this opportunity. After what felt like mere seconds after he fell asleep, his phone started ringing. Noticing that it was Thea, he smiled slightly. He answered the phone. Thea was crying. As he listened to her, he felt warm inside. Tenderly, he replied, “I’m at Common Clinic. I’ll be home soon.” He knew with certainty that the Smiths had sent David back. Now that Xander was dead, the Smiths would not have the guts to trouble Thea anymore.
They were not that stupid. They would never let her get a divorce from him. Not if they wanted to live. James stretched. After that, he got out of bed and left the clinic, closing the door behind him, He was about to leave when he noticed a woman standing in front of the clinic. She was about twenty-five or twenty-six years of age. Wearing a white dress and a pair of white high heels, she was lean but curvy with long, black hair hanging down her back. She had exquisite features and smooth, fair skin. There was an unmistakable sense of power about her. She was standing in front of a Firarre with her arms crossed. Her beautiful eyes landed on James. James saw her too. However, he turned to leave without saying anything. “Hey…” Yuna called. “James.” “Hmm?” James stopped, looking at her. Confusion was written all over his face. “What’s up?” He studied Yuna, trying to remember if he knew her. He frowned when he could not recall who she was. Yuna approached him, extending a hand. “Hi, James. My name is Yuna. It’s my birthday tomorrow night. I’d like you to come to my birthday party.” James frowned. “Are you crazy?” He did not even know Yuna. Yet, she invited him to her birthday party.
Was she not crazy? He turned to leave. “James, I was classmates with Thea.” His ears pricked up when she mentioned Thea. He stopped and looked at her again.” Classmates?” “Yeah, we’re both alumni of Cansington University. She majored in fashion design while I majored in economic managernent. Oh yeah…” She gave James two invitation cards. “See you tomorrow night at Cansington Hotel.” James stared at Yuna. He found it odd. How did Yuna and Thea become friends if they were in different courses? Furthermore, Thea was still disfigured when she was in university. Nobody wanted to be friends with her. Yuna was gorgeous. She was most likely the school belle. Why did she invite them to her birthday party? However, he pocketed the invitations all the same. “I’ll ask Thea if she knows you. If shie wants to go, we’ll be there.” After that, James turned to leave. Yuna stood in front of her Firarre convertible, watching him leave. It was only after James left that she made a call. “Find out who Thea’s university classmates were. Invite all of them to the party.” The voice on the phone replied, “Yes, miss.” “James Caden and the Black Dragon. Interesting.” Yuna hung up and giggled. She was a Lawson. The Lawsons were an important family in the Capital, just as influential as the Yates and the Graysons. After James stole her car and went to Ella Corporation, she utilized all her resources to investigate James. Finally, she managed to obtain some pictures of James being made general. As such, she knew James’ true identity. Who knew that the highly regarded Black Dragon of the Five Commanders would be in Cansington? What was more, he was the Callahans’ son-in-law. “Thea is the luckiest woman on earth.”
Chapter 105 Yuna envied Thea. What did Thea ever do to be under James’ protection? On his electric motorcycle, James rushed toward Thea’s house, humming a tune. Instead of using the main roads, he took some shortcuts. As he passed through an alley, a jeep appeared out of nowhere, blocking him. A middle-aged man exited the car. The man was clad in a loose robe. He had bushy eyebrows and big eyes with a square jaw. He looked powerful, like a man used to being in charge. James stopped his electric motorcycle, looking at the Blithe King. The Blithe King approached, tossing James a cigaretle. James caught it. The Blithe King pointed at the car. “Let’s talk.” James lit the cigarette and took a drag. “There’s nothing to discuss. If you have something to say, spit it out. My wife is waiting for me.” “What are you trying to do?” The Blithe King asked calmly. He had just arrived in Cansington, yet he had cleaned up James’ mess twice. He was the Blithe King of the West, now the commander-in-chief of the five armies. He was nol James’ lackey, yet James ordered him around repeatedly.
1 “I’m not trying to do anything,” James said inildly. The Blithe King roared, “First, it was Ella Corporation, then Prosperous Dynasty. James, I know you have unparalleled strength, but we’re in Cansington, not the Southern Plains. Are you seriously treating your countrymen like you treat your enemies?” James was unaffected by the Blithe King’s rage. “They can come after me, but not my wife.” The Blithe King took a deep breath, saying, “All I’m asking for is your cooperation. Please don’t cause any more trouble for me. Also, rumor has it you visited The Great Four. You want them to kneel for ten days at the Cadens’ cemetery before committing suicide. Otherwise, you’ll spare no one?” “Yes.” James’ expression darkened. “They deserve it.” “Even if they deserve it, you shouldn’t have done it. Let me handle this. I’ll arrest all those involved within three days and dole out punishment.” James raised his head and stared at the Blithe King. Their gazes locked. Time seemed to stop.
“Blithe King, I’ın warning you. Stay out of my business. Otherwise, I wouldn’t mind if the Five Commanders become four.” “Are you threatening me?” “Yes!” “How dare you!” The Blithe King was furious. No one had ever dared speak to him that way. “I’ve heard your power is unmatched, but we’ve never sparred.” The Blithe King removed his shirt. Just then, James moved in a flash. A silver needle appeared in his hand out of nowhere. A silver needle pressed against the Blithe King’s throat before he could even do anything. Time suspended. The Blithe King’s forehead beaded with sweat. He was the Blithe King of the West, a leader of armies. He had seen everything. Yet at this moment, he was afraid! He felt coldness wash over him as if he was plunged into ice. Cold sweat slid down his spine. He knew that the Black Dragon was very powerful. However, he did not expect the Black Dragon to be this terrifying. No wonder the higher-ups respected him so much. James retracted the silver needle. The cold dissipated. Casually, he said, “Don’t get involved in my business with The Great Four. If you want to help, track down the location of Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside’s Edge.” With that, James turned and straddled his electric motorcycle, whistling as he disappeared from the Blithe King’s sight. Only after James vanished did the Blithe King stagger backward. A man disembarked from the car. He was the Blithe King’s confidant, Daniel. “Sir…” The Blithe King waved his hand, cutting off Daniel’s words. “Who knew that he had gotten that powerful? If he wanted to kill me, a silver needle was all he needed. The Black Dragon lives up to his reputation indeed.” The Blithe King took a deep breath.
Chapter 106 The Blithe King’s appearance did not affect James at all. Since he resolved Thea’s problem, she had called for his return. He was in a good mood, humming a tune comfortably. Soon, he reached Thea’s house.
He knocked.
The door opened.
It was Thea.
Seeing James, she fell into his arms and started to cry.
James could not help but be moved as a beautiful woman threw herself at him, accompanied by an intoxicating scent. James put an arm around her shoulder, smiling. “It’s okay. Everything’s okay now. Don’t cry. Your eyes will get puffy if you keep crying.” Thea stopped crying then, pulling James into the house with her. Everyone was there. However, they looked ill at ease.
James approached them. “Dad, inom.” Gladys nodded, acknowledging his presence. “Don’t blame us, James. We had no choice.” “Mom, I don’t blame you. I only have myself to blame for not being able to help.”
James smiled.
He did not blame anyone at all.
Furthermore, when it all came down to it, he could not blame Thea anyway.
No matter what she did, he would accept it as he was indebted to her.
James sat down and took two invitation cards out, passing them to Thea. He asked, “Thea, do you know who Yuna Lawson is?”
ELD
“Hmm?”
Thea took the invitations. She looked confused. “I think I do. I remember she was at university with me, but she was two terms behind. She was the school belle. Many admired her for her beauty. I think she’s from an important family in the Capital. Why?”
James said, “I don’t know. On my way home, I bumped into her. She’s having a birthday party at Cansington Hotel tomorrow. She’s invited you.”
Thea unfolded the invitation.
It was an invitation for her and James, signed by Yuna.
She was confused.
“I don’t even know her. Why did she invite me?” lames spread his liands, saying, “How would I know? She delivered the invitations in person, so I couldn’t reject her and took them home.”
Thea looked at James, a hint of jealousy on her face. “It would make sense if she delivered it to me since we were at the same university, but why did she deliver it to you?”
Immediately, James said, “Thea, I promise I don’t know her. I haven’t even seen her before.”
“I’m just kidding. Look at you, all flustered.”
Just then, a group chat on Thea’s phone flooded with messages.
She took out her phone, reading the messages. “Oh my God, big news!” “Our school belle has sent me an invitation for her 25th birthday party at Cansington Hotel tomorrow.”
“I’ve received an invitation too!”
“I was wondering if she’s the same Yuna who was two terms behind us? The school belle, Yuna? Yuna from the Capital? The current chairman of Longevity Pharmaceuticals?”
“Yes, the delivery person mentioned it. It’s Yuna Lawson indeed!”
The group chat that had been silent for a long time started buzzing with messages.
All her classmates had received an invitation.
After Thea read those messages, she was bewildered. “Wh-what’s going on? We barely crossed paths with Yuna. Why is she inviting all of us?” “Thea, this is your chance.” Gladys peeked at Thea’s phone. Looking at the messages, she said, “I’ve heard of Longevity Pharmaceuticals. They’re a huge organization, only second to Celestial in Cansington. Furthermore, they’re the partner pharmaceutical group for the city’s designated hospitals. Since Yuna invited you, go for it. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your social circle.” She was right, but Thea was still puzzled. Why did the chairman of Longevity Pharmaceuticals invite her and her classmates?
Chapter 107 James asked, “Thea, will you be going?” “Of course Why not?” Thea looked up When she was in university, she was a laughing stock She did not have any self-confidence and constantly looked down on herselt Now that she had recovered her looks, her confidence blossomed James nodded “This is an important event yet there’s nothing suitable in your wardrobe Come on, let’s go shopping You don’t have any messones either.”
“Nonsense Who says there’s nothing suitable? I think my clothes will do just fine “Thea pouted Go shopping? She could not afford it,
James could read Thea’s thoughts He smiled. “Come on I’ll pay. Isn’t my card with you? All my savings for the past ten years ure there It’s quite a large amount.”
“1- We better not.” Thea shook her head, She had always been thrifty.
She never cared much for luxury items either.
“Go on,”Gladys said. “It’s the birthday party of Longevity Pharmaceuticals’ chairman after all. It wouldn’t be right to stinge on this. We have to get her a gift as well.” “Al-alright then.” Thea nodded, knowing that she would not win this argument.
“Okay, let’s go!”
James reached for Thea’s hand.
Thea avoided lim instinctively. Knowing that she had overreacted after that, she reached for James’ hand and smiled at him in apology.
James returned her smile.
Hand in hand, they left the house.
James took his electric motorcycle
Thea sat behind him, hugging his waist and leaning her head against his back
James did not want to keep riding the motorcycle. He planned to get a car. He asked, “Thea, what’s your favorite car?” “My favorite car?” Thea was surprised. “We visited a motor show this morning, and I saw the most beautiful red Firarre race car. I’ll return and purchase it one day.”
Thea motivated and encouraged hersell.
She was not into luxury cars. She just happened to fall in love with this car. It would be so cool if she had a car like that.
“If you like it, let’s get it.” “Tsk…” Thea hit James on the head lightly. “Stop horsing around. Do you know how much a limited edition Firrare costs? I’ve looked at the price. It costs more than twenty million. I could sell you off and it still wouldn’t be enough.”
“Thea.”
“Yes?”
“Thea, I’m going to be honest with you, but promise me you won’t get angry at me.” “Okay.” In a small voice, James said, “I was a high-ranking official at the Southern Plains. I abused my position and pocketed some money, so I was demoted to a regular soldier. In the end, I was expelled from the military.”
“Ah…”
Thea shouted, “You… you…”
“You said you wouldn’t get angry.” Thea smacked James on the head angrily. “How could you do something illegal when you could do so many other things?” “It’s not illegal. Do you know what the Southern Plains are like? It’s the border of the Eighteen Kingdoms. All the wealthy people are there, but it’s chaos. The rich pay a fee to the generals of the Southern Plains for protection. I took some money but the higher-ups found out, so I was expelled. As such, I have some money. If you want, we can use it to buy a car.” “I-I’m not taking it.”
Thea rejected the idea at once. “James, I’m warning you. I don’t care what you’ve done, but if you want to be with me, you can’t be involved in any illegal activities.”
“Thea, it isn’t illegal. It’s commonplace at the Southern Plains. It was just bad luck for me. You don’t even know how inuch money the other generals are pocketing. All of them chose to retire after that, buying luxury cars and mansions and living the easy life.”
He was trying to ease Thea into accepting his true identity. If she could accept all of this, it would not be too difficult for her to accept that he was the Black Dragon. “R-really?”
Thea did not know much about it. However, she knew bribery when she saw it. James nodded. “Of course. Have you heard of our boss, the Black Dragon? He’s one of the Five Commanders, on par with the Blithe King. He pocketed lots of money. He even conquered an enemy state and took over their gold mines. After selling it to other entrepreneurs, he made tens of billions just like that.” Thea shouted, “What? That’s so much money!”
Chapter 108 “It’s alright.” James explained, “This is just an example. The rich at the Southern Plains spend hundreds of millions like it’s nothing. My boss is worth hundreds of billions.” “What about you? How much do you have?”
“Not much, just hundreds of millions.”
James was careful not to divulge too much. Thea was shocked. “How is having hundreds of millions not much?”
Immediately, she yelled, “How could you do this, James? You seem honest most of the time, but you’ve done something so terrible. Do you only care about money?”
“Isn’t this normal? Mom has mentioned that Howard uses his position to pocket money as well. He’s enjoyed so many benefits, including luxury cars and mansions. Grandfather closes one eye to his antics. Look at dad, getting scolded by mom for being too honest.”
Thea considered it.
She supposed he could be right. However, those were completely different miatters. Whatever Howard did, it was all in the family. Whatever James did was illegal.
“Jamie, why don’t you return the money? It’s okay if we’re poor. All we have to do is work hard and we’ll be able to earn. If the higher-ups decide to pursue this, you’re dead. I don’t want to visit you in prison.” James smiled. “Thea, it’s not as serious as you think it is. I’ve been to the military court. My punishment is my expulsion. I would never join the military again. I get to keep the money as my boss said some nice things about me. Since I had been in service for ten years, this was my reward.” 1
James started making up stories.
After his speeches, Thea finally started to accept it.
She believed him.
If he were just a regular soldier, how could he borrow a car and enter and leave the military region as he pleased?
Now she knew. He was once an important person too, only expelled from the military because of bribery. He did know some important people.
However, even though James had some money and was willing to spend it on a luxury car for her, she was reluctant.
Since the general had acknowledged the money and gave it to James as a reward, Thea had other plans.
She was going to use it as capital for her business venture. She started to tell James her dreams and hopes. Suddenly, she said, “Oh, James, mom must never find out about this money. Otherwise, she’ll be bragging about it on the streets. She might even ask us to hand it over. This is our savings. Mom’s just like grandfather, who cares about status and reputation above all else.” “So, where’s the car?”
Thea hit James on his head lightly. “We’re not getting a car. Since the card is with me, I’ll keep it and decide what to buy. Oh, you can go home now. I’ll go shopping on my own.” “Huh? Thea, how could you do this to me? I just told you I have some money, and now you’re chasing me away?” “No, it might take a long time. I’m worried that you’ll be tired.” “Tired? When I was in the military, I endured worse. Furthermore, I’ll be with the woman I love. How could I be tired?”
Thea felt warm and fuzzy inside. She hugged James’ waist tightly.
Soon, they arrived at a women’s boutique. It was rather well-known in Cansington. The clothes were expensive, ranging from thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands Thea did not want to get something so expensive, but James insisted. Knowing she would not win the argument, she agreed.
The shop was decorated sumptuously. Gorgeous dresses hung on rows of racks. Thea’s eyes sparkled at the selection. She looked like a little girl, sifting through the dresses.
“Hey, don’t touch them. Would you be able to pay for damages?”
An unhappy voice rang out.
Thea turned, noticing a salesperson decked out in a suit. He was looking at her unhappily.
She apologized at once. “I-I’m sorry.”
“Thea, what are you doing? We’re the customers. Customers are king. How could you apologize to him?” James looked unhappy. Thea was too soft-hearted. With her personality, she would always get taken advantage of.
Thea tugged on James’ arm. “Forget about it, Jamie. Let’s go somewhere else. It’s too expensive here anyway. Each piece costs thousands of dollars.”
She grabbed James, making a move.
Even though James told her he had money, she did not want to spend so much just on clothes. “Poor folks. How dare you touch the clothes when you have no money?” The salesperson looked disdainful.
Chapter 109 “How dare you…” James was about to go berserk Thea grabbed hold of him immediately. “Alright, let’s go.” She was familiar with his temper by now. He even beat someone up during a family meeting. If she did not stop him, this matter would get blown out of proportion. Those in the military were so hot-tempered.
James did not lash out as Thea had a hold on him.
Both of them walked toward the entrance.
“Thea, is that you?”
A woman at the entrance was staring at Thea in surprise.
“Hmm?”
Thea turned, noticing a woman about twenty-seven or -eight years old. She was wearing a long, blue dress and clutching a Chanel bag. Gold earrings dripped from her ears, a crystal necklace sparkled at her neck, and a gold bangle flashed on her arm. Decked out in gold and silver, she looked beautiful and elegant. She was on the arm of a man in his thirties. He wore branded clothing from head to toe, looking powerful and important. “W-who are you?” Thea could not recognize her. “Thea, it’s you!” The woman in the jewelry and blue dress approached, smiling. “Have you forgotten? I’m Xena Ferguson!”
“Oh, it’s you, Xena!’ Thea finally remembered a Xena Ferguson in her class back in university.
“Thea, I’ve heard that you recovered your looks. Now, you’re the most beautiful woman in Cansington. Also, did your family pick a husband for you?”
That’s right.”
Thea pulled James to her, making the introductions. “This is my husband, James.”
Xena grabbed the handsome man next to her as well. “This is my husband, Zach Smith. The Smiths are only second to The Great Four in Cansington.”
Zach stared at Thea.
Thea was now famous in Cansington.
She was once the ugliest woman, but she was the most beautiful woman now.
It was such a drastic change that everyone knew about it.
Chapter 110 Seeing Thea, his expression turned greedy.
He then turned his gaze onto James, who was wearing plain clothes. Zach’s expression turned mocking. “Thea, the Callahans are quite an important family. How did you end up marrying
this piece of trash? There are still some eligible bachelors in my family. Why don’t you divorce huim? I’ll introduce you to someone in my family.”
Zach stared at Thea, planning to have her himself.
He said he would introduce her to an eligible bachelor in his family, but he wanted her for himself.
Thanks, Mr. Smith.” Thea smiled, pulling James away.
“Hey Thea, are you shopping for new clothes for Yuna’s birthday party?” Xena grabbed Thea. “What?” Thea looked at Xena, asking, “Why?”
When she was at school, she was shunned in class. She was never close with her classmates.
What was going on now? Why did they suddenly have so much to say? “Thea, I heard that you’ve been cast out of the Callahans. How can you still afford such expensive clothes?”
Thea’s expression darkened.
She might have been simple-minded, but she knew that Xena was making fun of her.
She ignored Xena, not wanting to argue with someone so snobbish.
“Oh, important guests! Please, come in!”
Just then, the salesperson who snubbed Thea earlier on approached them.
Seeing as Xena was decked out in jewelry and carried a purse worth thousands, the salesperson bowed as if he was welcoming God himself. It was so different from how he treated Thea.
Xena lifted her head and looped her arm through Zach’s, walking over proudly.
She even glanced back at Thea, smiling. “Thea, it’s Yuna, Ms. Lawson’s birthday party tomorrow. Look at how shabbily you’re dressed. I think you better not go and embarrass yourself. Furthermore, the Callahans are now the laughing stock of Cansington. Who fakes an invitation to attend the Blithe King’s succession ceremony? What a joke.”
(You…”
Thea was shaking in anger.
Next to her, James said. “See, I told you we shouldn’t leave. We have the money to pay.”
“What?”
James’ words caught her attention. She burst out laughing. “You’re just a soldier. How much money do you have? Can you even afford the clothes here?”
Zach flew into the clothes rack. All the clothes fell to the floor. The salesperson was horrified. In a low voice, he said, “Oh my God. Do you know how much these clothes are worth? Get ready to pay up.”