Ch. 151..160
Chapter 151
“What…”
Francis hesitated.
He had been pursuing Xara for many years, and his chance had finally come.
However, Mad Dog was not someone he could offend. He was a gangster in the criminal world and had hundreds of men under him. The Lelands would be in trouble if he offended Mad Dog.
“Hurry and get lost…” Nelson pushed him away with his leg. “Y-yes! I’ll go right now.” After contemplating the pros and cons, Francis compromised. There was no reason to offend Mad Dog just for a woman.
The Lelands would be in big trouble if Mad Dog targeted them.
He turned around to leave.
“Xara?”
Suddenly a voice sounded.
James stopped the car and compared the woman in the photo with the one standing by the road.
After confirming it was the right person, he hurriedly walked over and greeted her, saying,” Xara, it’s James.”
“You’re the James that married into the Callahans?”Xara glanced at James.
She had heard rumors before returning to Cansington.
The Callahans found a husband for her cousin, Thea, and he became their live-in son-in-law.
He even had some skills and healed the scars on Thea’s body, making Thea the number one beauty in Cansington. “Yes, I’m the James who married into the Callahans,” James replied with a smile.
Following that, he proceeded to pick up Xara’s suitcase. “Brat, where did you come from? Don’t you see that this is my woman? Get lost, or else I’ll kill you.” Nelson glared and threatened James.
“What?”
James looked at Nelson, then at Xara.
“Do you know him?”
Xara shook her head. “Nope.”
“Let’s go, then.” James picked up Xara’s suitcase.
Nelson stepped forward and blocked James. “Did you not hear what I said?
“Get lost.” James’ face darkened. He clenched his fists and threw a punch at Nelson’s face. Nelson immediately felt overwhelmed by dizziness. He stumbled backward and fell to the ground, groaning in pain. Francis was dumbfounded. ‘What just happened!”
This person was a subordinate of Mad Dog from the East District. How could he just hit him?
After Nelson got beaten, Francis approached again and said with a smile, “Xara, I’ve booked the table in the Gourmand. Let’s go. It’ll be your welcoming meal!”
Since Nelson was beaten up, he wanted to take her with him quickly.
James glanced at Xara again. “Do you know him?”
Xara shook her head.
Wham!
James swung his fist again. Francis stumbled and fell to the ground. Afterward, James finally showed a friendly smile and glanced at Xara. “Let’s go.” “What about…” Xara glanced at the two people lying on the ground, unable to get up. She had heard about James. He was a retired soldier from the military. However, he never fought back when mistreated by the Callahans and did all the house chores while enduring the scoldings. ‘Is this really the rumored live-in son-in-law of the Callahans?
‘He’s clearly a hero who stands up to help others without hesitation.’ “You’re dead, brat!” Francis got up from the ground and rubbed his dizzy head. He roared, “D-do you know who I am? I’m a Leland! My father is Ethan Leland, the owner of Leland Pharmaceuticals! You’re so dead!” Nelson got up, shook his head, and pointed at James. “You’re so going to die! My boss is Mad Dog from the East District! Just you wait, little brat!”
After his threats, he took out his phone. “B-boss, I’m at the airport! Someone took my target and hit me!”
Chapter 152 Nelson made a phone call. Francis was terrified. He would be involved and get beaten up if Mad Dog really showed up with his men. The Lelands might also be dragged into the mess.
He was so frightened that his legs went rubbery. Immediately, he turned around, got into his car, and drove off to a safe distance to watch without bothering to take Xara with him.
Xara was also a little worried.
Although she was not from Cansington, she knew that the Lelands were considered a wealthy family in the city. Despite that, Francis was afraid to offend the man
This proved that the person in front of them was not someone easy to mess with.
She pulled James and whispered, “Quick, let’s make a run for it.”
However, James seemed unbothered.
He glanced at Nelson, who was on the phone. Nelson had quite a handsome face. Unfortunately, it was because of his good looks that he could deceive some vain women. “You better get more people. It might not be enough for me to beat up if you don’t get more.” He smiled condescendingly.
Nelson’s handsome face filled with anger,
“Brat, you’re dead regardless of your background.”
“James, let’s just go.” Xara grabbed James.
“It’ll be alright. Since you already know I’m the live-in son-in-law of the Callahans, you should also know that I’m a retired soldier. I can easily handle three to five people,” James smiled at her.
Xara was relieved upon hearing his reply.
Since James did not leave, she also decided to stay and see his fighting skills.
Soon, several limousines pulled up.
A few vicious-looking men swarmed out of the car with iron rods in their hands.
Francis, who was a few dozen meters away, trembled when he saw the scene.
“It’s over. The live-in son-in-law of the Callahans is also over. My dear Xara, why didn’t you leave? Everything would be fine if you just left earlier. What should I do now? I don’t have the guts to save you.”
Seeing his comrades arrive, Nelson’s confidence immediately grew, and he glared at James.” You’re so dead, brat!”
“Who is it, Nelson?”
A fierce-looking man in his 30s with a scar on his bald head walked over. He wore a black
LE
singlet with a thick gold necklace. The scar on his head alone was enough to frighten ordinary people. This person was Mad Dog’s number one subordinate, Samuel Hoffman. He had thirty-eight consecutive wins in the underground arena and had killed countless people. Nelson walked over and bowed. “Samuel, you could’ve just sent a few men for such a trivial matter. You didn’t have to come in person.”
He pointed at James and Xara standing by the roadside. “It’s that brat. That woman is my target. She’s a really good one. I planned to bring her to our boss, but this kid interrupted me.” Samuel’s eyes immediately lit up when he saw Xara.
He scanned her from head to toe.
Xara had her hair tied into a ponytail and wore a casual white t-shirt paired with a denim skirt, revealing her slender legs. Superb.
Samuel had been with plenty of beautiful women but had never seen one so gorgeous. He swallowed his saliva and ordered, “Everyone, go! Break that man’s legs and grab the woman!”
However, a jeep drove toward thern unexpectedly and honked loudly.
“Everyone, hands on your head! You’re not allowed to move…” Following the sound of the car horn, several fully armed soldiers got out of the car.
These were men under the Blithe King.
After meeting up with James, the Blithe king was worried that James would impulsively cause trouble. He was unwilling to keep cleaning up the messes James caused, so he sent a small team to follow James.
They were ordered to take immediate action if James showed signs of trying to beat people up.
Thus, the team that secretly followed James immediately sprung into action after seeing such a scene.
Samuel and the other gangsters were terrified when they saw fully armed military soldiers. In an instant, they all had their hands on their heads and squatted down on the ground, not daring to move a single muscle.
Chapter 153 Daniel walked in and smiled at James. Then, he gave the order.
Seize them.”
The ferocious-looking thugs were seized in an instant. Upon seeing Daniel, Xara’s heart raced.
That was one-star General Daniel Highsmith under the command of the Blithe King!
However, before she could even react, Daniel had left.
She watched him leave, her disappointment apparent on her face. That was the closest she had ever been to her hero. How could she have missed the opportunity to take a picture with him?
James long knew that the Blithe King had been covertly sending someone to tail him. Perhaps this was a blessing in disguise, lest he attracted unwanted attention. He pulled Xara’s suitcase along and smiled. “Let’s go.” Xara nodded in response. “Okay.”
Seeing that the thugs had been seized, Francis, who had been watching in the distance, drove toward them immediately.
He got out of the vehicle and approached Xara He hurriedly explained, “Don’t be afraid, Xara. I’ll protect you. My family is well-acquainted with a general. I called them and requested help as soon as I sensed something was up. Are you alright?
“Oh?»
Xara glanced over at Francis and asked, “So, you were the one who called for help?”
“Indeed. Look around you. This is Cansington, where the Leland family is of high status. My grandfather even attended the Blithe King’s succession ceremony a few days ago. The Leland family is regarded as a powerful and influential family in Cansington, so it’s not strange for us to be acquainted with a general or two,” Francis boasted with a smug look on his face.
Francis was merely bragging. In truth, the Leland family was a second-rate family and could not even measure up to the Callahans.
Xara had thought that Francis was a coward, yet it turned out that he had gone looking for help. He seemed to be a decent man, not to mention quick-witted. It’s no wonder her mother held him in such high regard. “Xara, get in. We’re going to the Gourmand. I’ve reserved a table for us.” Francis said with a smile. Talding the suitcase from James’ hands, he glared at him and yelled, “What are you looking at? Leave her to me.”
James was speechless. People nowadays sure were opportunistic and quick to take credit for someone else’s work.
He looked at Xara and asked, “Are you coming with me, or are you going with him?”
Xara glimpsed at Francis.
He was handsome, rich, and even well-acquainted with the general. Besides, she heard that the Gourmand was the most luxurious hotel in Cansington. An ordinary man wouldn’t even be able to make reservations.
She wanted to visit the Gourmand. And most importantly, she wanted to get a picture with the general. Besides, her opinion of Francis had changed. She wanted to get to know him better. She looked at James apologetically. “Sorry for the trouble, James. You should head back first. I’ll have Francis drop me off at Thea’s place after lunch.” Since she had made her decision, James said nothing. He turned and left, getting into David’s dirt cheap Honda. It only cost two hundred thousand.
On the other hand, Francis invited Xara into his million-dollar Audi and drove off.
James took his phone out and called Thea.
“Thea, I met your cousin, but her classmate picked her up. Yeah, a guy named Francis. What? He has a bad reputation in Cansington? He impregnated a university student, and she jumped off a building?” Thea reprimanded him, “James, follow them. I won’t forgive you if anything happens to my cousin.”
James had no choice. He started the car and followed them.
If it was not for Thea’s request, he would not have bothered doing so. After all, what did Xara have to do with him? However, now that Thea had mentioned Francis’ bad reputation, Xara would likely be taken advantage of if she had lunch with him alone. Thea was concerned as she had experienced it before.
She repeatedly reminded James to escort Xara home safely and that if anything happened to her, she would never forgive him.
chapter 154
In the Audi.
Xara was in the passenger’s seat.
Francis drove all while boasting nonstop about his family’s prestige in Cansington and how much money he was currently earning through his own company. “Xara, I heard from Thea that you came to Cansington to look for a job. Why not come and work for me in my herb processing plant? With my family’s connections, I can rake in millions a year. I can even make you the manager.” “We’ll see.”
Xara was disinterested. Francis could make a good boyfriend. Since they were classmates, she was also familiar with his personality. However, she had no feelings for him whatsoever. She liked heroes. She admired those who were strong She came to Cansington in search of a living precisely because the Blithe King was transferred here.
She worshipped heroes and had an affinity for generals with great military prowess, like the Blithe King
However, she was capable of distinguishing between dreams and reality. It was her dream to marry a general. However, in reality… She would be content with someone who could provide her with a decent life After all, she had only gotten into Francis’ car after hearing that the Leland family was acquainted with the general.
“Francis…”
“Yes, what is it?”
Her words were stuck in her throat.
“Xara, we’re on good terms, aren’t we? Just speak your mind. As long as it’s within my ability, I’d do anything for you. Is there a dress you’d like? Or is there a handbag you can’t afford? Regardless, it’s all a piece of cake to me.
Xara was repulsed by Francis’ nonstop blabber about money, but she kept her composure. “You said you knew a general. May I know which general specifically?”
“Huh?”
Her words caught Francis off guard. However, he was quick to recollect hinself. “Surely you know of the Blithe King? I’m acquainted with Daniel, a one-star general under him,” He
bragged. Upon hearing this, Xara’s heart skipped a beat. Francis was acquainted with Daniel, an incredibly famous man in the Western Borders.
“C-Could you introduce me to him? I’d like to get a picture with him.”
“Uhm…”
Francis said with an uneasy look, “Xara, surely you know who General Highsmith is? Sure, I can reach him on your behalf, but just who do you think you are? Do you think he’d agree to meet a nobody like you?”
Xara nodded.
He was right. It seemed she would never realize her dream.
She did not think much of it. She was just a little disappointed.
Soon, they arrived at the Gourmand.
The table Francis had reserved was located in the public hall.
It was currently lunchtime in Cansington, the land of the wealthy. Hence, all the private rooms had been booked out. Either way, Francis would only be able to afford the lowest priced Bronze room.
He had everything planned out. Knowing that Xara could not hold her liquor and would get drunk after just a sip, he planned to order a few bottles of wine while they dined.
Now, he just had to think of a way to make her drink. Only then would his plan come to fruition.
‘Dumb b*tch. Acting all upright and righteous? We’ll see about that after I get you in bed. He chuckled coldly in his mind.
However, outwardly, he wore a smile as he warmly gestured for Xara to enter the Gourmand James, who was in close pursuit, entered behind Xara. He did not interrupt them. Unless things went south, he would not make an appearance. He planned to pick Xara up only after they were done with lunch. That, to him, would qualify as a mission accomplished. Outside the Gourmand, in the open parking lot. James parked his car. Upon getting off, he glanced at a Jeep that had been tailing him. It was not too far away. He walked toward it and gently knocked on the window. The window rolled down.
Daniel looked at James, embarrassed.
“General Highsmith, is everything alright at the military region? What’s with you following me around all day? Are you treating me as a suspect?” Daniel hurriedly explained, “Black… James, the Blithe King was worried you might get into
trouble, so he sent me to protect you in secret.”
“Protect me?”
James laughed. “General Highsmith, do you hear yourself? Do I look like someone who needs to be protected? Tell the Blithe King to stop tailing me. I’ve been denied my freedom, and I feel uncomfortable.”
“B-But James…”
“Since you’re here, let’s have a meal together.” Now that they were at the hotel, James was feeling a little hungry.
Chapter 155 Eating alone was boring.
Thankfully, Daniel was here. More importantly, James did not have money and needed someone to pay the bill. “No, I wouldn’t dare.” Daniel instantly froze in his tracks. How would he dare have lunch with James?
James scowled at him. “I’m giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to treat me to a meal. You should be honored. No one else would ever have the chance to do so.”
“Fine, then.” Daniel nodded and quickly got off the jeep.
He was not in military uniform but his casual clothes,
James wrapped his arm around Daniel’s shoulder and walked toward the Gourmand.
“By the way, General Highsmith, 1 have a question.” Daniel was feeling uncomfortable, having his shoulder grasped by James. “A-ask away, James.”
“What do you think the higher-ups are up to, reorganizing the five military regions and even transferring the Blithe King to Cansington as the commander-in-chief of the five armies?”
Daniel shivered. He hurriedly replied, “I-1 wouldn’t dare presurne the intentions of the higher -ups.”
James meant it as a casual question. He was not expecting Daniel to be so terrified. They entered the Gourmand.
Since it was lunchtime, the public hall was fully booked.
However, there were empty tables that were specifically reserved for emergencies.
Upon entering the Gourmand, they were met with Bryan. Someone had informed him of General Highsmith’s arrival.
As Bryan approached them, he noticed James by Daniel’s side and instantly felt a cold shiver down his spine. He walked up to them hurriedly. “J- James, Daniel.”
James gestured as he spoke, “Keep things low. Just arrange a table for me in the public hall…”
James scanned his surroundings and spotted Xara. He pointed to the table right behind her and said, “Over there.” “Yes.” Bryan nodded.
James waved Bryan off. “Alright, now. Having the owner of this place personally welcome us would only attract unwanted attention. I’m just the son-in-law of the Callahan family. It’d be bad if rumors started to spread.”
Understanding the situation, Bryan took his leave.
However, he arranged for someone else to receive James and Daniel.
Thankfully, Daniel was here. More importantly, James did not have money and needed someone to pay the bill. “No, I wouldn’t dare.” Daniel instantly froze in his tracks. How would he dare have lunch with James?
James scowled at him. “I’m giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to treat me to a meal. You should be honored. No one else would ever have the chance to do so.”
“Fine, then.” Daniel nodded and quickly got off the jeep.
He was not in military uniform but his casual clothes.
James wrapped his arm around Daniel’s shoulder and walked toward the Gourmand.
“By the way, General Highsmith, I have a question.” Daniel was feeling uncomfortable, having his shoulder grasped by James. “A-ask away, James.”
“What do you think the higher-ups are up to, reorganizing the five military regions and even transferring the Blithe King to Cansington as the commander-in-chief of the five armies?”
Daniel shivered. He hurriedly replied, “I-I wouldn’t dare presume the intentions of the higher
-ups.”
James meant it as a casual question. He was not expecting Daniel to be so terrified.
They entered the Gourmand.
Since it was lunchtime, the public hall was fully booked.
However, there were empty tables that were specifically reserved for emergencies.
Upon entering the Gourmand, they were met with Bryan. Someone had informed him of General Highsmith’s arrival.
As Bryan approached them, he noticed James by Daniel’s side and instantly felt a cold shiver down his spine. He walked up to them hurriedly. “I- James, Daniel.” James gestured as he spoke, “Keep things low. Just arrange a table for me in the public hall.” James scanned his surroundings and spotted Xara. He pointed to the table right behind her and said, “Over there.”
“Yes.” Bryan nodded.
James waved Bryan off. “Alright, now. Having the owner of this place personally welcome us would only attract unwanted attention. I’m just the son-in-law of the Callahan family. It’d be bad if rumors started to spread.”
Understanding the situation, Bryan took his leave.
However, he arranged for someone else to receive James and Daniel.
James was seated right behind Xara. She had her back to him, so she did not see him.
On the other hand, Francis, who was seated opposite Xara, could only see James’ back. As such, he did not recognize him. However… he did catch a glimpse of Daniel.
“Holy sh*t…”
The sight of Daniel shocked him, and he almost collapsed onto the floor.
“Huh?”
Francis’ faux pas made Xara frown.
“I-It’s nothing.” Francis wiped the sweat off his forehead.
A general came here to have lunch on the low. Everything should be fine as long as he was left alone.
“Xara, Congratulations on making your way here to Cansington. Cheers!”
Xara frowned. “Francis, you know I don’t drink.”
Francis immediately added, “Xara, it’s just red wine. You won’t get drunk. Come on, have a glass. For my sake?”
Upon hearing this, she picked the wine glass up and took a sip. She swallowed, and her throat felt like it was on fire.
After all, she was a lightweight who would turn red upon ingesting the slightest bit of alcohol.
At that moment, she felt like vomiting. “I-I’m going to the washroom.” She stood up and left. As she turned around, she noticed someone.
She froze.
“G-General Highsmith?”
She had watched the live stream of the Blithe King’s succession ceremony a few days ago.
She had even rewatched it a couple more times after the ceremony.
Was the man before her not Daniel?
Xara felt her heart race. She had always looked up to heroes and had an affinity for army men. 1
Seeing Daniel dressed in casual clothes, she was reminded of the commanding General Highsmith she had seen on TV a few days ago. He was dressed in military attire with a heart on his shoulder.
She wanted to take a picture with him to commemorate the occasion
However, she could not pluck up the courage.
She had missed her opportunity before. She could not make the same mistake now.
She encouraged herself.
As James had his back to her, she could not see him.
After taking deep breaths, she summoned the courage to walk toward Daniel. Just as she was about to speak, she noticed James. She was stunned, her mouth agape. “J-James?”
Chapter 156 What was Xara seeing?
Why was James, the son-in-law of the Callahan family, rumored to be an infamous loser, having lunch with General Highsmith, a general under the command of the Blithe king?
She did not know how to react.
Utterly shocked, she covered her mouth with her hands.
Hearing a gasp, James turned around and noticed her.
‘What is she doing? Is she that surprised to see me?’
However, one glance at Daniel, and he understood everything
He then stood up. “What a coincidence, Xara, you’re here too. Have you eaten? Come, join us. Oh, by the way, let me introduce you to Daniel. He’s a good friend of mine We grew up together in the orphanage. It’s our first time seeing each other in years, so we decided to have lunch together.”
Daniel cast a glance at James, taken aback
He immediately understood the situation and played along. Standing up, he greeted Xara with a smile, “Hello, I’m Daniel.”
“Ah….”
Xara gasped.
She was thrilled.
“General Highsmith is talking to me! What should I do? I’m so nervous.’
At the table right next to them, Francis was stunned upon seeing Xara extending her greetings to Daniel
He had just been bragging about being acquainted with General Highsmith.
What should he do now that Xara has met the real deal? If he backed down now, he would lose this opportunity forever.
Knowing this, he swallowed his pride and walked toward them. He presented himself before Daniel with a dignified expression. “General Highsmith, how do you do? My name’s Francis. I’m from the Leland family…”
“Huh?” Daniel frowned. “Who are you? Buzz off…” Francis was scared out of his wits. He pulled Xara aside. “Xara, what are you doing? Let’s go. We shouldn’t anger the general.”
He dragged the astonished Xara away and whispered in her ear, “I’ll find the right time and place to introduce you to General Highsmith.”
“] James…”
Xara regained her senses and called out.
James was seated, and Francis had only noticed Daniel. Upon hearing Xara’s words, he paused and asked, “W-Who?
Xara shook off Francis’ grip. She picked up a backless stool and set it beside James. Sitting down, she said with a huge smile, “James, I hope you won’t mind?”
“Yeah, sure thing,” James replied with a listless look When Francis saw James, he was shocked. ‘What’s this? Isn’t that the son-in-law of the Callahan family? How is he having lunch with General Highsmith?”
Unable to process the situation, Francis was at a loss.
Meanwhile, Xara, who was seated beside James, fixed her gaze on Daniel, eyes full of admiration.
Daniel felt a little embarrassed, being stared at by such a beautiful young maiden. It would not have mattered if it was any other girl. However, she was the sister-in-law of the Black Dragon “Uhm… what are you staring me for?” Daniel felt his face and muttered, “Is there something on my face?”
Gazing at Daniel, Xara felt her heart race and her adrenaline pumping. She did not expect to meet her idol, General Highsmith, so quickly after arriving in Cansington. She had long dreamt of taking a picture with him.
“Don’t just sit there. Dig in.”
James grabbed the cutlery and began eating. Meanwhile, Francis stood at the side, dumbfounded
Seeing that Xara had seated herself, he took a deep breath and approached their table again. He took a seat beside Xara. With a smile, he said, “Xara, so you knew each other.” James glanced at Francis and frowned. “Xara, who’s this?” Xara, whose eyes were only on Daniel, shook her head. “No idea.”
Slam!
Daniel slammed the table.
It sent shivers down Xara’s spine. She immediately stood up.
Francis was so frightened that he fell from his chalr.
Daniel then said coldly, “Do not make me repeat myself. Scram.” Francis dared not linger and immediately left. Xara, too, was preparing to leave. However, James pulled her back to her seat and said with a smile, “Not you. Sit down and enjoy the food.”
“Huh?”
Chapter 157 Xara glanced at James and seated herself. “A-Are you General Highsmith?” Xara’s eyes gleamed.
Daniel looked at James. James laughed. “Xara, his name’s Danny. He’s not a general.” “H-He’s right.” Daniel quickly nodded in agreement. “Miss… Xara, was it? I’m not a general. My name’s Daniel… Sorry, Danny. I just look similar to Daniel.” He stumbled over his words.
Hearing this, Zara let loose a hearty laugh. She did not expect the majestic-looking General on TV to have such a cute side to him. She knew that the person before her was indeed General Highsmith. She had watched the Blithe king’s succession ceremony countless times. There was no way that she could mistake him for someone else.
No way. He had to be Daniel.
Danny? Seriously?’
“General Highsmith, I really look up to you. C-Can I get a picture with you?” Xara blushed as she summoned the courage to ask him for a favor.
“Uhm?” Daniel glanced at James.
James said with a smile, “Feel free. It doesn’t cost you a lot.”
Daniel nodded in agreement. “T-Then, let’s take a photo.” Xara was delighted. She headed toward Daniel and sat next to him, though she was careful not to get too close. She quickly took her phone out and took a selfie. However, one was not enough. She got closer – so close their bodies were almost touching. She held up a peace sign and snapped another picture.
Snap! Snap! Snap! She alternated between different poses as she snapped over a dozen more photos.
Meanwhile, James was only concerned with eating.
He was famished after skipping breakfast.
After having taken so many photos, Xara was satisfied. With red cheeks, she said, “General Highsmith, thank you so much. You’re my idol, so I’m really excited to see you. I hope you don’t mind all the photos.”
“Haha, it’s alright…” Daniel laughed awkwardly. “Danny… Are you not eating? If you aren’t, then leave.” “Oh, okay.”
Daniel, as if granted amnesty, quickly stood up and left.
“Hey…”
Xara called out.
However, Daniel had already left.
“James, w-what are you doing? That was General Highsmith! He’s my idol. How could you make him leave?”
As she spoke, her expression changed. “Wait. You can order General Daniel Highsmith around?” James replied, “Daniel? I’ve told you. He’s Danny. Also, why do you keep calling him a general?”
Xara seated herself and glanced at James.
Her useless brother-in-law was enshrouded in secrecy. She remembered Daniel had given James a scarcely perceptible smile back then at the airport. “James, are you one of the Five Commanders?” Xara exclaimed.
Few knew much about the Five Commanders, let alone their existence. However, she knew bits and pieces about them, as she was a military fan.
Daniel was the Blithe King’s subordinate. Even though James was not the Blithe King, he had authority over Daniel. Therefore, he had to be one of the Five Commanders.
“Huh?”
James was at a loss for words. This girl had a keen eye. She had figured out his identity as one of the Five Commanders just from the meeting with Daniel
“Yes,” James said, smiling. “That’s right. I’m one of the Five Commanders.” Francis, who had been concealing himself, walked toward them upon noticing that Daniel had left.
He sat at Daniel’s seat and shot James a look of displeasure. “Pfft! If you’re one of the Five Commanders, then I’m the Emperor of the Capital!” Xara immediately lost interest in the conversation. She had long heard of James’ past. He had retired from the army, but how was he one of the Five Commanders?
Also, why would one of the Five Commanders marry into the Callahans?
Chapter 158 Xara could not understand this. How did James get to know General Highsmith?
Danny? An old friend from the orphanage?
“James, be honest with me. What’s your relationship with General Daniel Highsmith?” Xara asked.
James replied while munching on his food, “General Daniel Highsmith? I don’t know who that is. That guy earlier is a childhood friend of mine. We haven’t seen each other in years. Since we bumped into each other, we decided to have a meal together. Is he a general now?”
“You don’t know?” Xara was rather suspicious of James’ words.
General Highsmith seemed to obey James’ every command and acted according to his wishes.
James went on, “I don’t know. It’s been more than ten years since I was at the Southern Plains. This Daniel… Sorry, Danny. From what I know, this Danny guy went to the Western border. He never mentioned anything about being a general.” James put his chopsticks down and looked at Xara. “He’s… a general?” “Yes. Did you not watch the Blithe King’s succession ceremony? It’s been on replay these past few days.” “F*ck…” James exclaimed. “Really? This kid’s a general now? Back in the day, he was just a nobody who looked up to me. This won’t do. I have to bring him back here and kiss his “ss. Oh, wait. I don’t have a phone. What should I do? I’ve lost this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to
get rich.”
James put on a face of regret.
Francis finally understood what was going on. He now knew why James was having a meal with General Highsmith. It turned out Daniel used to be called Danny, and he seemed to have been acquainted with James since young.
However, that was many years ago.
Now, Daniel was a general, and he was having a meal with James as a token of their childhood. Now that he was a general, it was likely he no longer thought much of James. Francis raised his head and said, “Xara, the Leland family is also very influential. We’re acquainted with General Highsmith. We’ve even requested his help in our business.” He started bragging again. Eager to impress his crush, he boasted about his family’s influence and his earnings from his plant. Hearing this, Xara began to feel a little repulsed.
However, being rich was indeed something worth boasting about.
Compared to his peers, Francis was a capable man.
At least, he was much more competent than Xara’s brother-in-law.
She glanced at James.
Marrying into the Callahans, unemployed, and using the resources of the Callahans as he pleased, he was a useless piece of trash.
However, her opinion of him had changed after finding out he used to be in the military and that he knew Daniel.
“I’m full.”
James wiped his mouth with a napkin. Suddenly, he remembered. Who would pay the bill now that Daniel had left? Glancing at the still-boasting Francis, he laughed. “Since you’re such a wealthy man, Mr. Leland, I hope you wouldn’t mind paying the bill?” As he spoke, he pulled Xara away. “Xara, Thea ordered me to bring you home safely. Now that we’ve had our meal, let’s leave.”
“Okay.” Xara nodded. “James, what are you doing?” Francis rebuked him all of a sudden. He had waited for Xarato come to Cansington and had finally gotten the opportunity to have a meal with her. He would not let her go so easily. He had planned to bring her shopping in his mall to impress her by flaunting his wealth.
“Huh?”
James frowned and asked, “What?” Francis pointed at James’ hand and exclaimed, “Hands off. She’s my girl.” James glanced at Xara.
Xara looked at Francis with a tint of displeasure. “Francis, when did I ever say I was your girl?” Francis’ tone immediately softened. “Xara, look at what I’ve got. Are you still hesitating? Once you become my girlfriend, you won’t have to work anymore. You won’t have to worry about food and clothing, and you can buy anything you want. Don’t you want that?” “No,” Xara replied curtly, “I have a perfectly functioning body of my own. I can feed myself.”
Chapter 159
After saying that, she turned and left. James was close behind her. Before leaving, he added, “Remember to pay the bill.”
“Damn it.”
Francis clenched his fists angrily. A hint of disappointment flashed across his somewhat handsome face.
“James, you piece of junk Just wait.”
James had ruined his plans, so he was full of hatred for him.
James led Xara out of the Gourmand. He put her suitcase in the trunk and drove to the Callahans’ residence.
Xara sat in the passenger seat. She wore a silly smile as she scrolled through the photos she had taken with Daniel on her phone. James could not help but comment, “They’re just photos. Is that necessary?” “What do you know?” Xara shot him a look “General Highsmith is my idol. The Blithe King’s an even greater idol of mine. It was my lifelong dream to take a photo with them. Finally, my : wish has come true.
“However…”
She stopped for a moment and glanced over at James, who was driving, before saying, “The person I admire the most is the Black Dragon General of the Southern Plains. You said you were deployed to the South. So, have you seen the Black Dragon General? What does he look like?”
“Of course.”
James had a haughty look on his face. “No one knows the Black Dragon better than me.” “Really?” Xara was delighted. “So, is the Black Dragon tall or short? Is he fat or skinny? What’s he like? Is he married?” She popped a consecutive string of questions. She knew of the Black Dragon, and she knew of the battle that gave him that title. It was known all across the world.
All military junkies knew of it.
However, no one knew how the Black Dragon looked.
The appointment of the Black Dragon as a general was top secret. Aside from a few higher-ups in the military regions, no one else knew about it. Even if some photos did leak, only a few of the most prominent families in the Capital would have them. An ordinary family would never come close to ever seeing them.
James said, smiling, “I can confidently say that the Black Dragon is married. Give up on your dreain.”
Xara was disappointed. However, that disappointment dissipated almost immediately. “Brag all you want. I’ve heard that although you were in the military for ten years, you remained the lowest-ranked foot soldier. The Southern Plains was filled with millions of the Black Dragon army. I don’t think you were even qualified to join their ranks. So, how could you possibly know the Black Dragon when you’ve never even seen him?”
James smiled and said nothing. Even if he had told her the truth, she would not have believed him. Instead, she would have chastised him for being delusional. Xara sighed deeply “A year ago, my idol, the Black Dragon, charged into the enemy camp alone and went on a rampage. Among all the bloodshed and the mountain of corpses, he returned triumphant with the enemy’s commander’s decapitated head. That marked a full stop to his legendary life.” “To think that a common citizen like you would be so knowledgeable,” James said. “Of course.” Xara wore a smug look. “I’m a veteran military junkie.” However, her expression transitioned into one of sadness. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to . see the Black Dragon in my lifetime. When the opportunity presents itself, I’ll visit the Southern Plains. For now, I’ll remain in Cansington. Perhaps I’ll get to see the Blithe king. “Oh, right…” Suddenly, she had an idea. “James, you’ve known Daniel all your life. Although he’s gotten ahead in life and is now in his prime, he may still do you a favor. Will you help me, please? 1 really want to take a picture with the Blithe King,” she pleaded. “Huh?”
James glanced over at Xara. He did have a liking for her. After all, she looked up to military men. She was not boy-crazy and did not blindly worship celebrities. Besides, she merely wanted to take a picture with the Blithe King. It was not as if she was trying to marry a general.
“Xara, I can help you, but only if you keep this a secret from Thea. If you can do that, I’ll bring you to meet the Blithe King.”
Chapter 160 Xara was merely throwing words out.
She was not hoping to get anything out of it.
Even if General Highsmith had known James since he was a child, he was still a general and a person of high status.
Moreover, to the Blithe King, he was just a subordinate. He might agree to help James, but the Blithe king himself might not be convinced. Upon hearing James’ words, her eyes gleamed. “Really?”
James said with a smile, “Of course. I used to be in the military too. Since you’re so enthusiastic, I’ll come up with something.”
“James, that’s great! Thank you.” Xara was excited.
The Blithe King was one of the Five Commanders.
Although the Blithe King was not the most admired of all, she would be more than content if she got to take a picture with him. James glimpsed at the rear-view mirror. The jeep was still tailing him.
He knew that the Blithe king was still tailing him.
Xara eventually recollected herself and asked with an upset look on her face, “James, don’t give me false hope. You may be childhood friends with General Highsmith, but there’s no way he’d be able to convince his superior to take a picture with me.”
James smiled. “We’ll give it a try.”
He turned the car around and headed in the direction of the military region. Soon, they arrived at the gates of the Cansington military region. “James, you’re doing this right now?” With a confused look, she asked, “Would we get to see the Blithe king without informing General Highsmith?” “We’ll try our luck.” James grinned with an air of mystery.
He parked his car by the side.
He knew that the Blithe King had been informed of his arrival. After all, he had been sending his men to monitor his movements. As expected, a few minutes later, a middle-aged man clad in combat gear walked out. He had five stars plastered on his shoulder.
He had a round face and bushy eyebrows, He exuded an aura of unrivaled dominance.
Xara watched as the Blithe King walked toward them. She was so fllled with exhilaration that she had almost forgotten to breathe.
James opened the car door and gestured for her to get off. The Blithe King approached them and shot James a look with a slight frown. Xara got off the car and nervously stood before the Blithe King Yes, this was the Blithe King. He was more majestic in person than on TV. She held her breath
James said calmly, “This is my cousin. She’s a veteran military fan. She looks up to you and wants to take a picture with you. What do you think?”
The Blithe King frowned.
What was the Black Dragon up to? He glanced at Xara.
Xara’s heart stopped. Her mind went blank
The moment she laid her eyes on the Blithe King, her senses went numb, and she could do nothing but stand in place.
She could not hear anything James was saying,
James lightly pushed the stupefied Xara. “What are you standing here for? Go and take the picture.”
“Huh?”
Xara recollected her senses and carefully glanced at the Blithe King. “M-May 1?” Wearing a look of compassion, the Blithe King replied, “But, of course. Why not?” Upon hearing this, Xara got so excited she almost burst into tears. She swiftly took her phone out and handed it to James. “I- James, h-help me out.”
She was so thrilled that she had almost dropped her phone.
James took the phone and opened the camera. Xara then walked toward the Blithe King and stood by his side.
“Closer,” James instructed.
Xara wanted to, but she dared not.
Unexpectedly, the Blithe King got closer to her. As long as the Black Dragon was pleased and did not cause any trouble, the Blithe King would have his peace and quiet. What was a photography session worth, after all? “Commander-in-chief, loosen up. Smile! Also, try putting your arm around her shoulders. Give us a loving expression, won’t you?”
Upon hearing this, the Blithe King was enraged. However, he kept his composure and did as James had instructed.
Xara felt a pair of strong arms wrap around her shoulders.
At that moment, her breathing stopped. She could not feel her heartbeat. “Done,” James called out before she could even react.