Ch. 271..280
Chapter 271
Mila said, “Phoebe, I’ll stay at your place.”
Phoebe replied helplessly, “But I’ve been staying at a hotel all the time.
Frowning, Mila was shocked by the information. Phoebe inched closer with a smile and asked, “What’s wrong with your place? Can’t we stay there?”
Mila mumbled in bitterness, “I divorced Nathan as ‘Suzanne.’ Since we’re no longer wife and husband, I don’t have a place to live now.”
Phoebe blinked, looking at her calmly. “Well, you can buy a house for yourself since you’re pretty rich.”
Mila sighed, “This is Norvania, not Sunterland.”
Phoebe slapped herself on the head and chuckled, “Gosh, I’m being silly. Your assets are in Sunterland.
“As Suzanne York, you’ll definitely attract unwanted attention from the authorities if you transfer that vast wealth to Norvania.”
Mila pressed her lips wryly. After a pause, she confessed, “Actually, I am in 600 thousand dollars worth of debt.”
Phoebe looked surprised. “Who did you owe it to?”
“Nathan Morrison.”
“Your ex-husband?”
“Yeah.”
“Why did you owe him money?”
“I borrowed money from him because my friend needed to pay for her
1,3
dad’s hospitalization fees. Since I didn’t have money, I paid for her using his card.”
Phoebe shook her head. After heaving a long sigh, she took a seat. beside Mila and remarked, “Mila, your friend could have borrowed the money for her dad from Nathan herself.
“Why did she have to make you do it instead? You’re too kind, even when you lost your memory.”
The light went out from Mila’s eyes. She looked out of the balcony and mumbled dejectedly, “I’m not kind. In fact, I’ve sinned a lot.”
“Look at you. You’re at it again.” Phoebe helped Mila up and said, Let’s go. We’ll stay at the hotel for now.”
When they walked to the entrance, they saw Nathan approaching. them with an imposing air. His two assistants followed closely
behind him.
Mila came to a stop. Phoebe was taken aback by Nathan’s intimidating presence and froze on the spot.
H
Nathan and Mila’s eyes met. They looked at each other tenderly. He
went up to her and asked, “Are you feeling better?”
Mila nodded and pressed her lips into a tight smile.
He explained, “I’m here to take you home.”
She declined, “It’s fine. I’ll stay at the hotel with my friend.”
Nathan glanced quickly at Phoebe before looking at Mila’s soft and aloof eyes. He knew that she must have had other priorities from her past memories, and she decided to distance herself from him after making a choice.
He pretended to be fine and asked casually, “Is there a chance we could get back together in the future?”
She sank into silence. Her heart throbbed in pain.
He pressed on, “Do you plan to return to your life three years ago?”
She bit her lower lip and reflexively grabbed the hem of her shirt to suppress the rising pain in her chest. Feelings of longing and desire. tormented her. Her rational mind cautioned her that there was no hope to get back with Nathan.
As an important chemist cum First Class System Engineer in the Sunterland Ministry of Defense, she would need to serve her country.
Alas, Nathan was the top gun in the Norvanian military Armament Division. Although the two countries weren’t enemies, they had conflicting interests.
Nathan was overcome by heartbreak at Mila’s silence. He asked softly, “Did you have someone you love from three years ago?”
She finally mustered a soft and painful reply, “I’m sorry, Nate.”
He pursed his lips and smiled as tears welled up in his eyes. He’d never admit to crying over a romantic relationship.
Holding back tears, he turned to stare out of the corridor window. He could stop his tears from falling as long as he avoided looking
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Chapter 272
“I’m sorry…” Mila mumbled.
Lucas couldn’t stand the scene anymore. Clutching his fist, he snapped, “Ms. York, Mr. Morrison showered you with deep affection for half a year. For you, he-”
“Shut up,” growled Nathan, effectively cutting off Lucas.
Lucas nodded and took a step back without a word.
Nathan feigned a casual tone. “Are you planning to head back to Sunterland?”
Mila replied, “I’ll head back after settling the two snakes by Grandpa
and Grandma’s side.”
Nathan scrambled for reasons to make her stay. “Aren’t you going to take over the Hoffis family’s business?”
“No.”
“Isn’t it a win-win situation to get your lover to Norvania while you take over the family business? You can stay back to enjoy family time with your grandparents.”
She flashed him a smile and shook her head.
Looking upset, he nonetheless replied in a stiff tone, “Well, I wish you happiness.”
Then, he left in great strides without looking back. Cole quickly followed suit.
Lucas, ashen-faced, felt sorry and upset on Nathan’s behalf. He didn’t leave. Instead, he stood in front of Mila and pointed a finger in her face. “I’ve never come across such a heartless woman like you. I
know who you are.”
Gritting his teeth, he continued, “Mr. Morrison has loved you for more than ten years. To make himself a man good enough for you, he risked his life to climb the ranks. That’s how he reached the height of his career.
“Every time something happened to you, he’d give up on everything to save you. He took care of you, day and night when you were in a comal
Phoebe cut him off irritatedly, “That’s enough. What are you doing? Guilt-tripping her? He can sacrifice for her however he wants, but he cannot demand her to return his favor.”
Lucas glowered at Phoebe. She insisted, “Mr. Morrison didn’t say
anything about it. All he did was to wish her happiness. Why are you harping on the topic when Mr. Morrison didn’t even expect anything
from her?”
Lucas placed his hands on his hips. “I… I can’t stand watching this!”
Phoebe snorted, “So, are you trying to force her to accept a man she doesn’t love, just because you can’t stand the situation?”
A man she didn’t love? Hearing that, Mila felt horrible and
disconsolate.
Before she left Norvania, she had no clue what love felt like because she was too young to comprehend. All she knew was that she was fond of Nathan.
However, she had fallen for Nathan over the last three years. She loved him to the moon and back. Even if their relationship was doomed, the last thing she wanted was to hurt him.
Mila instantly teared up. Leaving behind Phoebe, she brushed past Lucas and ran after Nathan. It took Phoebe a moment to figure out
the situation, and she ran after Mila. “What’s wrong, Mila?”
Seeing that, Lucas chased after the two women.
Nathan approached a car at the hospital entrance. Cole turned around to check. He said to Nathan, “Mr. Morrison, Lucas is not out yet.”
Nathan spun around just in time to see his beloved woman running out of the hospital. He stood there, nervously clutching his fist.
Mila ran up to him and panted hard. ‘Nate, sorry. I-”
He smiled bitterly at Mila. She had repeatedly apologized to him. He assured her, “You didn’t wrong me.”
Looking tenderly at Mila, he gently reminded her, “Take good care of yourself. Leave your grandparents’ matter to my care.”
“But…”
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Chapter 273
“Mila, wait for me!” Phoebe’s panicked voice echoed from behind. She panted as she caught up to Mila. Placing her hands on her waist, she lowered her head and breathed heavily.
By then, Lucas had caught up to the two women.
Mila looked at Nathan hesitantly. Under the gaze of everyone around, she struggled to express her helpless and guilty feelings.
She didn’t want to hurt Nathan, but she was well aware that she couldn’t offer him what he wanted. The best she could do was to apologize to him.
Nathan briefly glanced at Phoebe and asked Mila, “Mila? Do you have another name?”
Mila was slightly taken aback. She quickly recalled her previous
career and nervously explained, “I published a book once. Mila was my pen name.”
Was she a published author before? Well, she was surely an all- rounder.
Fixing a passionate gaze on Mila, Nathan finally remarked, “You haven’t changed at all. You’ve been an outstanding person since young.”
With that, he entered the car without any longing.
Lucas and Cole took the driver and the front passenger seat respectively and left.
Staring at the car that drove away, Mila wallowed in deep sadness. Her eyes brimmed with tears.
13
Phoebe, having finally caught her breath, inched closer and whispered in Mila’s ear, “Mila, are you in love with him or what? He’s Nathan Morrison from the Norvanian military and a Defense General.”
Mila exhaled softly. Masking her real feelings, she denied, “I don’t love
him.”
“That’s good to hear. You almost gave me a scare.” Phoebe patted herself on the chest. “What would we do if you fell for him?”
“Let’s go.” Mila marched away with tears in her eyes.
A car cruised down the wide street. Summer had begun, but the interior of the car felt cold. A tense air hung in the enclosed space.
Eyes closed, Nathan rested against his seat with a soulless expression. Meanwhile, the disgruntled Lucas complained irritatedly to Cole while driving, “I feel really angry for Mr. Morrison!
“He risked his life and sneaked into Muzat to save her. Every time she was in trouble, Mr. Morrison would put aside his work to take care of
her.
“But how did she repay his kindness? After she regained her memories, she immediately dumped him. She’s crossed a line!”
Cole patted Lucas on the shoulder. He comforted his colleague in a whisper, “Alright now. That’s enough, Let Mr. Morrison rest.”
Lucas felt bad for Nathan when he saw the exhaustion on Nathan’s face through the rearview mirror. Nathan had stayed by Mila’s side for seven days and seven nights, not moving an inch even though his
work had been piling up.
After Mila woke up from the coma, Nathan spent three days catching up with work before rushing back to the hospital to take her home.
Nathan hadn’t had a good rest for days. Even his healthy and strong. body had run out of stamina.
Lucas tightened his grip on the steering wheel and hissed, “I don’t understand. Mr. Morrison could have forced her to stay; he had many ways to do so.”
Cole cut him off. “Happiness cannot be forced. If you truly love
someone, you’d refrain from forcing anything on her. You’ll wish her the best, not forcing her to stay by your side. At least, Mr. Morrison isn’t that type of guy.”
Lucas scoffed unhappily and turned away to stare out of the window. Silence once again enveloped the space.
They arrived at Sudvilla after half an hour’s drive. Cole turned around
and informed Nathan, “Mr. Morrison, we’ve arrived.”
Lucas turned around and called out, “Mr. Morrison…”
Nathan shook his head. He placed his fingers on his temples and slowly opened his bloodshot eyes. As he tried to absorb the view in front of him, he asked, “Where?”
“We’re at Sudvilla.” Feeling sorry for Nathan, Cole advised him softly,” Mr. Morrison, have a good rest at home. You can’t carry on like this.”
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Chapter 274
Nathan rubbed his temple and checked the time on his wristwatch. Then, he ordered, “Look into Oliver Hoffis’ records in the past ten
years.”
Cole replied, “Will do, Mr. Morrison.”
Nathan turned to Lucas. “Lucas, send some men to monitor Sally. Figure out how Sally and Oliver got in touch with the Dark Shadows Society.”
Lucas sounded reluctant. He pleaded, “Mr. Morrison…”
Nathan went ahead, “Also, send some bodyguards to protect Zach and Loretta Hoffis. I don’t want anything happening to them.”
Lucas was practically trembling from anguish. “Mr. Morrison, you’ve been busy enough with the Norvanian military. Why would you waste time on her family matters? She’s not worth your effort after what she had done to you.”
Nathan disregarded Lucas’ protests. He got out of the car and
entered the main complex of Sudvilla. Lucas and Cole followed su
Nathan walked past the living room and headed to the study. His two assistants followed behind closely with much concern.
Lucas called out to Nathan worriedly, “Mr. Morrison, please rest in your bedroom. I’m begging you.”
Nathan replied, “I’m not tired.”
He was in fact tired, but he refused to lie in bed. Every time he closed his eyes, he couldn’t help thinking about Mila, and he’d lose sleep due to the heartache.
He settled by his study desk and flipped open a file. “The two of your should get to work as well.”
“Mr. Morrison…” Lucas stomped his feet angrily.
Cole stared at Nathan with a stern expression. He felt for the poor
man.
Nathan sounded grave but weak. “Get out now.”
Cole and Lucas exchanged a look and left following Nathan’s command.
Lucas grew sadder when he left Sudvilla. He slammed his fist against the car without warning, causing Cole to jump in shock.
Cole glared at him. “What are you doing? Do you think car repairs are cheap?”
Lucas placed his hands on his hips and confronted Cole furiously, Do you still care about the car at this point in time?
“Mr. Morrison isn’t invincible. He’s just a human being who will feel pain, exhaustion, and sadness! Don’t you feel sorry for him?”
Cole let out a long sigh. He replied earnestly, “What else could I do? He doesn’t drink or sleep. He’s numbing himself with work to momentarily forget about his worries.”
Lucas pointed in the hospital’s direction. “I’ll abduct her and keep her
in Sudvilla.”
He earned a glare from Cole. Cole snapped, “Oh, grow up! Stop meddling in Mr. Morrison’s private life. He’s lived his life in this way for many years. It’s not a big deal.”
Lucas violently opened the car door and took a seat in the front passenger seat. Then, he tugged at the seatbelt with all his might, releasing his resentment on it.
2.3
Cole took the driver’s seat. Before driving away, he made a call to Cameron Hudson..
Half an hour later, Cameron showed up at Sudvilla with a crate of
hard liquor. He pushed open the door to the study.
Hearing the commotion, Nathan lifted his head and peered over. He found Cameron approaching him with a wide grin.
Cameron placed a crate of hard liquor on the study desk. He said, ” Here, drink with me.”
Nathan glanced at the liquor and absentmindedly shifted his
attention back to the documents. He replied coldly, “Get these out of my way.”
Cameron sat sideways at the corner of the study desk. He rested his arm on the desk and moved closer to Nathan. “How long have you gone without drinking?”
Nathan responded with silence. Cameron examined Nathan’s aloof expression for a bit and casually opened a bottle of liquor, which hel placed in front of Nathan. “Drink with me if you consider me your friend.”
Nathan shut the file and leaned back into his seat. Frowning at Cameron, he inquired, “What did my assistants say to you? Was it
Cole or Lucas?”
Cameron smiled awkwardly. “It doesn’t matter. I know you feel terrible
after the divorce. Time to drink your sorrows away.”
Nathan forced a lonely smile. “I’m not that fragile.”
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Chapter 275
Cameron casually took a sip of his drink before responding, “You’re not.”
Nathan let out a sigh. “Love in this life often feels like an insignificant desire. Marriage or not, it’s not a matter of life and death.”
Cameron chuckled in response, a sense of irony in his voice. He took another sip of his drink, strolled to the nearby sofa, and settled in with his legs crossed.
“You appear quite composed. It seems like you’re not as emotionally affected as they say. Divorce doesn’t seem to faze you much, does it?
Nathan remained silent, instead reaching for a box of liquor from the desk. He walked over to Cameron and placed it on the coffee table.
“Take the alcohol home and drink it. I don’t have time to keep you company,” Nathan replied curtly, settling the bottle down before returning to his desk to resume work.
Cameron, still seated with his legs grossed, watched Nathan intently, lost in thought as he sipped his drink.
Initially, Cameron had come to share a drink with Nathan, but now he found himself becoming intoxicated alone.
Surprisingly, Nathan didn’t even touch his own drink.
Feeling the effects of the alcohol, Cameron realized he couldn’t continue drinking.
He set his glass down and remarked, “This is boring. I thought you’d be pouring your heart out after your divorce, but it seems I was
mistaken.”
Nathan kept silent.
Cameron stood up and spoke as he walked away, “Nate, I’m heading out. Just give me a call whenever you feel like grabbing a drink together.”
With that, he closed the door to the study behind him.
Instantly, the room fell into a serene quietness.
A wave of weariness washed over Nathan, engulfing his entire being. Setting down his pen, he closed the file and leaned back in his chair, allowing his eyes to rest.
In the stillness of the study, his heart grew heavier with each passing
moment.
In his mind and heart, the image of Mila lingered, causing a persistent
ache.
The discomfort wasn’t overwhelming, but it bore down heavily enough to feel suffocating, leaving him struggling to catch his breath.
Indeed, this longing felt like a chronic ailment.
Similar to a frog slowly boiling in warm water, it was a gradual and agonizing ordeal.
Every moment seemed to bring forth pain, discomfort, longing, and emotional turmoil.
Even in Mila’s absence, devoid of this love and marriage, he could still find a way to carry on.
Suddenly, Nathan’s phone rang. He slowly opened his eyes and checked the caller ID. It was an unfamiliar number.
Taking the call, he brought the phone to his ear, his voice hoarse as he whispered, “Who is this?”
A soft, sweet voice replied, “Nate, it’s me, Mila.”
Nathan sat up abruptly, tension gripping him. He cleared his throat and inquired, “Mila, is everything alright?”
There was a brief pause before Mila responded, “Do you happen to have my phone and other documents with you?”
Nathan confirmed, “Yes, I do.”
“Could you arrange for someone to deliver them to me?”
Nathan fell silent.
Mila continued, “Also, I left some clothes there previously. They’re still in good condition, and I’d rather not discard them. Would you mind having the maid pack them up for me and include them with my documents and phone?”
After a moment of consideration, Nathan replied, “The maid is
currently on leave. Cole and the others have also been quite occupied lately. If you have the time, you could come by to retrieve them yourself.”
“Alright then,” Mila murmured.
Anxiously, Nathan inquired, “When will you be available? I can ne to pick you up.”
Mila sounded surprised. “Aren’t you busy?”
“I am,”
“In that case, I’ll manage on my own. I remember the passcode.”
“Sure.”
There was a pause in the conversation.
Breaking the silence, Mila spoke, “Well, I’ll hang up if there’s nothing
else.”
Quickly, Nathan interjected, “Mila.”
Mila hesitated for a moment, emitting a soft “Hmm?” that conveyed both anticipation and longing.
After her brief response, she lapsed into silence, unsure of how to continue.
Nathan drew in a deep breath, his gaze drifting out of the window to the scenery beyond. His expression softened as he spoke gently,” During those ten years when you were away… were you doing okay?”
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Chapter 276
Mila’s response came swiftly, “I was doing alright.”
Feeling a familiar ache in his heart, Nathan slowly closed his eyes, his voice strained as he murmured, “Where did you study? Where did you
work? You…”
“Nate,” Mila interrupted his probing questions, her tone heavy with emotion as she avoided delving into the past. “It’s all behind us now. There’s no point dwelling on it.”
But was it truly relegated to the past?
Nathan pursed his lips bitterly, resisting the urge to press further.
Over the past decade, there had been countless words he yearned to express to her. He wanted to ensure she was doing well and to learn. about every facet of her life.
Even if it meant merely being a friend, a neighbor who cared.
Mila’s voice came slowly, “Nate, goodbye.”
Nathan stayed silent, listening to the emptiness of the line. A part of him still hoped she would reach out to him again.
Mila hadn’t specified when she would retrieve her belongings. Maybe she had no intention of seeing him again.
After some time, Nathan gently placed his phone on the table. He walked to the window and stared into the distance.
His imposing figure seemed solitary and forlorn in the still room. Like a tall, sturdy tree stripped of its vibrant green foliage.
Two days later.
As evening approached, the sky was bathed in shades of red by the setting sun, casting a warm glow over the land.
A car pulled up at the entrance of Sudvilla. Phoebe remained in the car while Mila stepped out and entered the house alone.
Entering the familiar home once more stirred deep emotions within her. Despite her reluctance, she hastened her pace.
Inside Sudvilla, there was a noticeable absence of staff. Mila made her way upstairs and pushed open the door to the master bedroom.
Considering Nathan’s busy schedule, she assumed he wouldn’t be
present.
Mila wandered around the room, reluctant to depart, her hand gently grazing over the vanity she had once used.
After lingering for a moment, she made her way to the closet, retrieved her suitcase, and started packing her belongings.
She folded her clothes and gathered her documents and phone, carefully packing everything into her suitcase.
With everything arranged, she picked up the suitcase and left the room, dragging it behind her as she went.
Descending the stairs with her luggage, she halted abruptly upon reaching the living room.
To her surprise, Nathan was seated on the couch with his back turned toward her.
Despite the sound she made, he remained unmoving.
With a heavy heart, Mila approached slowly, her gaze fixed on his familiar silhouette. A slight flutter of unease stirred within her chest.
***
“Nate,” she greeted softly. “I didn’t expect to find you here.”
Nathan remained silent, offering no response.
Unable to discern his expression, Mila continued, “I’ve come to collect my belongings.”
Nathan’s voice quivered as he spoke, “Will we still have the chance to
see each other in the future?”
Upon hearing Nathan’s distressed tone, Mila felt a pang in her heart, a sensation tingling at her nose. She, too, longed to see him.
Throughout these three years of secretly admiring him, she had yearned to spend every day by his side.
Even now, with her memories restored, her love for him burned even brighter.
Indeed, those feelings had never waned.
Nevertheless, she realized that she and Nathan were like two ships. destined to pass each other in the night, never to cross paths.
Their identities were at odds. If she were to return to her job, simply interacting with him could cast her as a traitor.
What was the use of pursuing a relationship with no future?
Tears welled up in Mila’s eyes as she struggled to speak, “I’m so Nate. I think it’s best if we stop contacting each other and go our separate ways, just like before.”
Nathan’s voice was laden with sadness as he replied, “Sure, I understand.”
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Chapter 277
Mila exited Sudvilla, dragging her suitcase behind her.
Phoebe emerged from the car, swiftly taking Mila’s suitcase and stowing it in the trunk.
Seated in the passenger seat, Mila stared out at the landscape, tears welling up in her eyes, an unfamiliar sense of discomfort engulfing
her heart.
It felt as though her heart was being pricked by a thousand needles, the ache nearly unbearable, Nathan’s memory haunting her every thought.
Phoebe settled into the driver’s seat, starting the engine before pulling away from the curb. “Mila, when are we heading back to Sunterland?” she inquired.
Mila turned her gaze to the passing scenery outside the window, her voice calm as she asked, “Did you make the report?”
“Yes, I did,” Phoebe responded solemnly. “The country needs you and is eager for your return as soon as possible.”
Mila’s lips twisted in bitterness as she took a deep breath. “You shouldn’t have rushed to report it.”
“Why not?”
“I need to handle things here first. It’s not going to be a quick process.
“That’s alright. The country won’t pressure you to return immediately.”
Resting her head on her hand, Mila felt a wave of helplessness washed over her. “True, nobody can force me, but there could be
spies in Sunterland.
“Have you considered the consequences if news of my survival leaks
out?”
Phoebe’s face turned pale, and she froze nervously, realizing the gravity of her impulsive actions.
“W-what should we do then?” Phoebe stammered, guilt written all over her face.
Mila retrieved her phone, her tone nonchalant as she responded, ” Let’s just take it one step at a time.”
“What’s our next move?” Phoebe inquired.
Mila responded, “We need to earn money to pay off debts. Let’s focus on stabilizing our life here first.”
Phoebe nodded in agreement, though she wasn’t particularly
concerned about the financial aspect. With or without Mila, she could still secure funding from the Sunterland government.
However, that would risk exposing their location. For now, she had to rely on Mila.
Mila accessed a cloud storage account on her phone, which had b dormant for over three years. After searching through it, she foun file and transferred it to Phoebe’s account.
Setting her phone aside, Mila explained calmly, “I’ve uploaded translated versions of the book I completed three years ago in six different languages to your account. You can sell them for money.”
Phoebe was aware that when Mila wasn’t occupied with work, she occasionally translated highly specialized and significant books, alongside her sporadic art endeavors.
Phoebe inquired, “Mila, what’s the price for one book?”
Mila furrowed her brow, taking a moment before replying, “I’m uncertain about the current market value, but considering it’s a specialized chemistry book, the Norvanese version I translated previously could fetch over a hundred thousand per copy.
“You’ll need to negotiate with the publishers for the final price.”
“Understood,” Phoebe acknowledged before raising another question, “Why don’t you sell your paintings instead, Mila? Each one could generate millions, and it’s quicker money.”
Mila shook her head resolutely. “The proceeds from my artwork are designated for charity.”
Undeterred, Phoebe persisted, “Then what about selling military design blueprints? They’re even more lucrative than art.”
Mila’s expression soured as she turned to Phoebe. “I don’t require a large sum of money, just enough to suffice.
“Are you fixated on wealth now? Are you seriously suggesting that I sell military equipment blueprints?
“How about proposing to sell a few grams of hydronium instead? Perhaps I could even become the richest person in the world.”
Phoebe panicked and rushed to clarify, “Mila, that’s not what I meant at all. I’m simply concerned about your current financial situation, you know? After all, you still owe Nathan 600 thousand dollars.”
Mila responded with a casual tone, “Don’t worry, I’m accustomed to adversity.”
“Indeed, Mila, you’ve endured quite a bit over these past three years.”
“Every hardship is a lesson learned.”
Phoebe remained silent.
A week passed.
Nathan lay in his hospital bed, glancing at the payment notification on his phone. A sum of 600 thousand had been deposited.
He stared at the message, momentarily puzzled.
A
His phone rang shortly after. Answering the call with a hoarse voice, Nathan croaked out, “Hello.”
On the other end of the line, Mila sat in her apartment, clutching a teddy bear.
She took a deep breath, listening to the voice she had longed to hear day and night. Her heart pounded with nervous anticipation. “Nate, it’s me.”
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Chapter 278
Chapter 278
Nathan remained silent for a moment before humming in response.
Mila lowered her gaze, her fingers gently stroking the teddy bear in her arms as she murmured, "I've transferred 600 thousand dollars to your account."
Nathan's response was another quiet, noncommittal hum. His composed and
indifferent demeanor sent a wave of panic through Mila's chest.
Despite her desire to maintain distance and avoid any contact with him, she found herself torn and overwhelmed by conflicting emotions, the turmoil almost driving her to the brink of madness.
She missed him dearly, desperately longing to see him again. Feeling at a loss for words, Mila simply said, "Never mind, goodbye."
Before she could say anything more, Nathan abruptly ended the call.
Mila gazed at her phone screen, tears cascading down her cheeks uncontrollably.
Across from her, Phoebe sat munching on potato chips, her gaze filled with confusion as she observed Mila's unexpected emotional outburst.
Phoebe asked helplessly, "Mila, what did he say to you? Why are you crying?"
Mila hastily set her phone aside and wiped away her tears, attempting to compose herself. "I'm not crying. It's just my tear glands acting up again. They seem to have a
mind of their own.
"And what exactly set off this sudden burst of tear activity?"
Mila pouted, feeling aggrieved. "He didn't utter a single word, merely responding with a couple of hmms."
Phoebe couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation, sighing in amusement.
"You never fail to amaze me, Mila. You shed tears at the slightest provocation-be it nightmares, fatigue, unsuccessful experiments, disappointing takeout, or even a scolding from the driving instructor.
"Now it's getting even more absurd. A few indifferent noises from Nathan have you in tears again. Do you need surgery to fix those tear ducts of yours?"
Taking a deep breath, Mila sank onto the sofa, shutting her eyes tightly to hold back the tears.
A bitter chuckle escaped her lips. "You know, I used to cry even more when I was a child. I was quite the little drama queen, always seeking attention and comfort."
Phoebe, still engrossed in her potato chips, replied coolly, "It's no surprise. Coming from a wealthy background, you were likely pampered and sheltered. Without facing real hardships, even minor grievances could bring you to tears."
Reflecting on her past, Mila couldn't help but smile. "I used to adore being coddled by Nate. Whenever I acted out or shed a tear, he'd rush to my side, completely flustered and unsure how to handle it. And whenever I tried to be playful or flirtatious with him, he...
Phoebe leaned in with curiosity. "What did he do then?"
Mila's smile slowly faded as she turned and settled into the sofa, burying her face without uttering a single word. The floodgates of her emotions reopened, and tears streamed down her cheeks once more.
What were once cherished memories now felt unbearably bitter.
She was once the darling of the family, showered with affection by her parents and doted on by her grandparents. Her classmates adored her, and her teachers favored her. She was even held in high regard by the neighbors in her community.
When Nathan showed her special affection from a young age, she initially
interpreted it as brotherly fondness. At the time, she couldn't quite discem the true nature of their feelings.
Suddenly, the phone rang.
Mila anxiously turned toward it, expecting it to be her phone, only to find Phoebe answering it instead.
As Phoebe listened to the call, she turned to Mila, a seriousness creeping into her gaze.
"Okay, got it," Phoebe said, ending the call.
Her demeanor was tense as she spoke, 'Mila, your grandfather is critically ill."
Mila's expression darkened, her concern evident. "But he seemed perfectly healthy when I last saw him. How did he suddenly become so ill?'
Phoebe conveyed, "The spy I placed inside Hoffis Manor informed me that your grandfather's illness has been kept under wraps.
"He's receiving treatment solely from the family doctor and your uncle without being taken to the hospital.'
Mila trembled with fury, her eyes tuming red. She rose to her feet, hands on her hips, and exclaimed, 'That scumbag! Is he trying to harm my grandfather?"
Phoebe stood up beside Mila. "It seems like he intends to eliminate your grandparents and collaborate with that impostor to seize control of your family's entire fortune.
"We can't afford to wait idly by. We must take action to prevent this tragedy," Phoebe urged. "Mila, we have to act swiftly."
Mila clenched her fists, struggling to contain her emotions as she replied, "Do you think I don't want to? I have no idea about my parents' fate. I fear they might have been harmed or are being held captive.
"Once I reveal my identity, they'll surely target my parents. And they won't spare my grandparents, either."
Chapter 279
Chapter 279
“What’s our plan?”
Mila hesitated briefly before turning to Phoebe. “We’re going to stay at Hoffis Manor,” she declared.
Phoebe’s expression turned incredulous. “Stay at Hoffis Manor? Are you serious?”
Mila sighed. “It’s the only way you can be close enough to protect my grandparents.”
Without further discussion, Phoebe headed inside to pack their belongings.
An hour later, in the luxurious villa of Hoffis Manor, Mila and Phoebe stood in the living room, each with a suitcase beside them.
The staff of Hoffis Manor exchanged puzzled glances, their skepticism evident as they observed the two unfamiliar women.
Loretta was equally stunned, gazing at their suitcases with disbelief. She couldn’t help but feel shocked and slightly amused by the
situation.
“When did Hoffis Manor become a shelter?” Loretta’s tone drippe with disdain. “Who gave you the audacity to assume you can stay in my house? It’s laughable and embarrassing. Where do you get the nerve to make such requests?”
Mila remained composed as she replied, “Grandma, I’m divorced now and have nowhere else to go. I just hoped to stay at Hoffis Manor for a few days.”
Loretta let out a cold snort, finding the situation utterly ridiculous. ” Robert, escort these guests out,” she ordered the butler.
As Mila and Phoebe turned to leave, Mila muttered, “Fine, I’ll just go
back to Nathan’s house.”
Suddenly feeling uneasy, Loretta called out, “Wait!”
Mila and Phoebe exchanged a glance, smiling faintly as they turned
back to face Loretta.
After a brief pause, Loretta relented, “Our family owns several villas. Take your pick. Or if you prefer, you can stay at any hotel.”
Mila pursed her lips and shook her head, adopting a slightly playful tone as she murmured, “I only have eyes for Sudvilla and Hoffis. Manor. If I can’t stay here, then I’ll head to Sudvilla.”
Loretta’s fury was evident, her glare piercing as she huffed in cold disdain. “You are truly shameless.”
Undeterred by Loretta’s hostility, Mila turned to Phoebe. “Phoebe, what did Nathan say earlier?”
Phoebe nodded in understanding, clearing her throat before relaying Nathan’s message. “Mr. Morrison said he wants to remarry you.”
Mila replied coolly, “Well, that’s not entirely out of the question…
Loretta’s anger surged, her voice resonating through the room as commanded, “Robert, prepare two guest rooms for them!”
Mila’s smile was radiant as she graciously thanked Loretta, “Thank you, Grandma.”
With that, she passed her luggage to the maid and grabbed Phoebe’s hand, leading the way toward the second floor.
Here, in her former home, everything felt achingly familiar. Yet, she never anticipated returning under someone else’s guise and being met with such hostility from her own grandmother.
Two hours later, Sally returned from her shopping trip to find the living. adorned with luxury goods. However, her good mood vanished instantly upon learning that two strangers had moved into her house.
When she discovered it was Suzanne, her anger intensified.
Sally’s voice reverberated with fury throughout the mansion. “I didn’t agree to this! Get them out of here immediately.”
Oliver hurried back from the hospital upon receiving the news.
In the grand living room, Mila and Phoebe sat calmly on the sofa, observing the scene before them.
Sally was furious, her expression dark and imposing as she vowed to defend her stance at any cost.
In contrast, Oliver, despite his initial shock, appeared more excited than anything else.
However, doubts lingered in his mind. Reason dictated that no matter how desperate Suzanne might be, she couldn’t possibly move into Hoffis Manor.
Furthermore, she had arrived with a woman he had never seen before.
Sally pointed at the door, her voice low and menacing as she addressed Mila and Phoebe, “Leave.”
With a sly grin, Mila rose to her feet and retorted calmly, “Your grandmother permitted me to stay here. You have no authority to
intervene.”
Sally clenched her teeth, narrowing her gaze suspiciously. “Suzanne, what scheme are you plotting? What devious plan do you have in mind?”
Mila retorted, “Ms. Hoffis, when it comes to scheming, I’m no match for you. Don’t worry. I simply felt unsettled that you took my husband
away.
“So, I’ve decided to stay here for a while and give you a hard time. Perhaps it’ll make me feel a bit better. That’s all.”
Chapter 280
Chapter 280
Sally looked bewildered. “I stole your husband?”
Mila nodded, her expression on the verge of tears. “Yes, you stole my husband. When he divorced me, he confessed that he had always
loved his childhood sweetheart.”
Sally’s eyebrows knitted together in surprise, her face reflecting a mix of disbelief and uncertainty as she glanced toward Oliver.
Oliver narrowed his enigmatic eyes, a slight smile tugging at his lips as he adjusted his glasses. “How long do you plan to stay?”
“Until I can come to terms with my previous marriage.”
“Very well, make yourself at home,” Oliver declared.
Sally angrily interjected, “Uncle Oliver, have you lost your mind? It’s
clear she has ulterior motives.”
Oliver shot Sally a cold glare, his eyes brimming with hostility.
Sally recoiled, too intimidated to speak further.
Pointing at Phoebe, Oliver asked, “And who is she?”
Mila held Phoebe’s hand and introduced her, stating, “This is my friend, Phoebe Baskins. She’s currently facing some financial difficulties and doesn’t have a place to stay.”
Phoebe frowned slightly, finding Mila’s choice of words both amusing and perplexing.
After the introduction, Mila escorted Phoebe out of the living room.
As they walked past Sally, Mila paused. Standing beside her, facing the opposite direction, Mila spoke softly, “Sally, I look forward to your
13
hospitality.”
Sally smirked coldly and whispered menacingly, “Suzanne, do you know what it means to be a sheep among wolves? You could’ve chosen the easier path, but instead, you’ve ventured into treacherous territory.”
Mila remained composed, offering a faint smile. “Who’s the sheep, and who’s the wolf? Only time will reveal the truth.”
With that, Mila gracefully went up the stairs.
Sally’s expression darkened as she watched Mila’s departing figure, a sense of unease creeping over her.
That was unmistakably Suzanne, unchanged in appearance and voice, just as she had always been. However, Sally couldn’t shake the feeling that something was different about her.
There was a subtle change in her demeanor. She showed a newfound confidence and composure even in the middle of a crisis.
Mila and Phoebe retreated upstairs to their room.
Meanwhile, Sally approached Oliver, her anger evident as she demanded, “Why did you agree to let them move in? Can’t you see that this isn’t normal?”
Oliver regarded her with a cold smile. “We have a willing prey right in front of us. Shouldn’t we take full advantage of this opportunity?”
Sally crossed her arms, remarking, “Call me paranoid, but I don’t
believe she’s as easily manipulated as you think.”
Oliver countered, “They’re just two vulnerable women. What trouble could they possibly cause at Hoffis Manor?”
Sally fell silent, lost in contemplation.
As night descended upon Hoffis Manor, Mila took precautions by locking the doors and windows of her room. After completing her nightly routine, she spent some time reading before preparing to sleep.
With the lights turned off, Mila settled into bed and drifted off to sleep.
However, she was abruptly awakened by a noise.
As she regained full consciousness, she opened her eyes and was startled to find a shadow looming over her, pressing her down onto the bed.
A hand, unusually warm, covered her mouth tightly. It prevented her from making a sound. She looked on in horror at the vague figure before her, a familiar scent overwhelming her senses.
Her heart raced, and her breath came in rapid gasps. Despite her efforts, she remained pinned beneath the shadowy figure, unable to free herself.
She could feel the intense heat emanating from the person on top of her, seeping through her thin clothing.
“Mmm.” Mila wanted to cry out for help, but she found herself devoid of strength, unable to produce even a whisper.
“Are you out of your mind?” The man’s voice dripped with anger, each word laced with suppressed rage. How dare you move into Hoffis Manor.”