Ch. 501..510

Chapter 501

Phoebe walked past Cole after she said her piece. Cole stood there, feeling sad and helpless. When he finally turned around, Phoebe was already fa away.

Mila went into Nathan's office lounge and sat on the couch. She looked surprisingly calm as she stared at him.

Nathan got her a glass of water and sat beside her. "Take a sip and relax," he said gently.

After drinking some water, Mila put the glass down and waited quietly for him to explain. Nathan gently placed her hand on his thigh, stroking it. Mila unintentionally frowned, looking at Nathan's calm face and then at her hand on his.

"Do you enjoy touching my hand?" she asked.

Nathan sighed. "We're newlyweds, but you won't let me hold you, or kiss you, or even see you. And now you won't let me touch your hand?" Mila suddenly realized she was being unreasonable. Her anger had stemmed from jealousy toward Fenna.

"If you want to hold my hand, go ahead. But don't you think I deserve a reasonable explanation for what just happened?" Mila asked softly. Nathan looked at her and replied, "l'm not in a good mood right now. I'll explain when I feel better."

Mila sighed. She felt even worse than he did.

Jacob had mistreated her, but Nathan took his side. He even accused her of slacking off at work. But she knew she couldn't let her anger take over without knowing the whole story.

After a moment of silence, Mila gently kissed Nathan's cheek. "Are you feeling better now?"

Nathan smiled softly. "Somewhat. But I still feel like something's missing.”

Mila knew exactly what he was thinking. She sat on his lap, wrapped her arms around him, and kissed him.

Nathan was surprised initially, but then he eagerly held her close and kissed her deeply, full of longing and desire.

After their Bassionate make-out

session, vila felt a bit breathlesso“”

She lo6ked into his intense eyes,

feeliag a bit dazed as she asked

seftly, "Is this okay?"

belongs to º

Nathan put his arm around her waist and softly brushed her cheek with his other hand as he whispered, "Spend the night in my room." "I'm more than six months pregnant now. You're too strong, and it might hurt the baby," Mila said with concern.

Nathan smiled warmly, running his fingers through her hair, and affectionately teased, "Why are you overthinking?"

Mila blushed when she realized she was overthinking things.

They only ad sex before she got

pregnantewhen she got Nathan o

drunk. Re never tried to have sex

with her once she got pregnarát. She

waght sure if her pregnancyovas the

reason or if he just wasn't interested.

Côntent belongs to swnofel

Her cheekgreddened, andshe x

looked aívay, feeling a bit C

embarfassed. "I wasn't overthirking.

Are You going to explain to ne what

just happened?"

Nathan noticed that she was about to feel upset, so he stopped teasing her. He hugged Mila and leaned against the couch.

Mila snuggled up against his chest. Feeling Nathan's heartbeat and the warmth of his embrace, all her jealousy and anger disappeared. "Do you value your family or hydronium more?" Nathan asked gently.

"Family comes first," Mila replied without hesitation.

Chapter 502

Chapter 502

Mila had warned Nathan earlier about a possible spy in their research department, and he took her concern seriously.

As her curiosity grew, she quietly asked, "Who's the important target you planned to catch with my data?"

"lt depends on who we catch," Nathan replied with a kiss on her forehead.

Mila was dying to know more. She leaned forward and asked, "Can you share the plan with me?"

"No, your priority right now is to rest and look after yourself and the baby," Nathan firmly refused.

"I won't get involved. Can I just know the plan?"

"No."

Mila pleaded softly, "Nate, please tell me, okay?"

Nathan's heart softened at the sound of her voice, but he held firm for her and the baby's safety. "Just wait for the good news, and don't worry." He looked at her gently and tucked her hair behind her ear. "We'll find your family soon if everything goes well."

Upon hearing Nathan mention family, Mila felt a sudden rush of longing and pain. She hugged him tightly, buried her face in his chest, and closed her eyes to soothe her heartache.

Suddenly, the office door swung open. "Nate, there's another meeting later—" Fenna stopped short as she entered and saw them on the couch. Mila quickly stood up from Nathan's lap. The fact that Fenna had entered without knocking made her angry and speechless.

Concerned that Mila might react strongly, Nathan gently held her waist and urged, "Be careful.”

Mila wasn't afraid of Fenna seeing them. Rather, she worried about Nathan's reputation if they were seen cuddling in the office, where such behavior was inappropriate.

Fenna's face turned sour, but she pretended to remain calm as she said, "Ms. Hoffis, this is the office."

Just as Mila was about to speak, x

Nathanifterrupted in a disgruntled'

tone, 'Since you know this is the”

office, remember to knock next time

yeu come in." Content belangs to

-

Fenna looked at Nathan in confusion and argued, "I've never knocked before."

"Bad habits must be broken," Nathan said firmly. Then, he pulled Mila over to sit beside him and ordered Fenna, "Go get a cup of warm milk." Fenna's expression darkened. She stood motionless, balling her fists and clenching her teeth.

Mila quickbyintervened, "It's okay.

won't have anything." She didn't CT

want térrisk drinking the milk Fehna

had delivered. She thought Nathan

was being rather insensitive:

"You carry on with your work. I'm going back to get some rest," Mila whispered to Nathan as she stood up and made her way to the door. Nathan was on her heels and said, "I'll go with you."

"It's fine. I'll just text Phoebe and have her come over."

Mila felt Fenna's intense hostility as she walked past her. Suddenly, she stopped in her tracks.

Nathan gently took her hand and asked, "What's wrong?"

Instead of ânswering Nathan, Mila.

turned toFenna and said, "Ms. <<

Hudsof, I hope you understand”

boukdaries when it comes to

semeone else's husband..-

Fenna's face fell. She remained silent as she felt her rage seething within her.

Nathan smiled helplessly as he said, "Don't overthink it."

Chapter 503

Chapter 503

Lately, Mila had been receiving various food and supplies at the military base.

She got used to it until today when Cole came five times. He brought fruit and pastries twice each, and finally, he brought some books. Mila thought it was strange. She initially thought Nathan was acting oddly, but now it was Cole. The last time Cole came to Mila's door, he had books With him, but he seemed to be searching the dorm.

"Where's Phoebe?" he asked.

"Phoebe's inside. Do you want to come in?" Mila replied with a smile.

Cole hesitated, then handed the books to Mila and said, "It's fine. Can you ask her to unblock me? I need to talk to her.”

Mila liked the thought of Cole and Phoebe being together. She asked softly, "When did you upset her?"

"Must have been this morning," Cole answered, his expression filled with concern.

Mila thought briefly before saying, "Then you'll just have to wait. She'll probably unblock you by tomorrow. She usually only stays mad for a day at most.”

"Okay, thanks.”

Mila closed the door and entered the room. Inside, she spotted Phoebe snacking and watching drama in the corner.

"Are you and Cole a thing?" she couldn't resist asking.

Phoebe blushed and nearly choked on her snack. She was taken aback. She coughed while trying to cover her mouth, then hastily denied, "Mila, that's absurd! There's nothing between us.”

Mila settled onto the couch, casually flipping through a book, and asked, "But don't you have feelings for Cole?"

Phoebe felt uneasy but pretended to be calm as she replied, "I don't have feelings for him.”

"Well, Cole seems to have feelings for you."

Phoebe's cheeks reddened. "Il don't care who he has feelings for. I wouldn't be interested in a guy like him. He's not worth it," she said irritatedly. Focused on her book, Mila asked casually, "What's wrong with him?"

Phoebe replied grumpily, "He's too

friendly with everyone. He acts all”

buddy-Bhddy with Fenna. That =

womah hangs around Cole evên

tho it's obvious she likes&General

Metrrison. She truly annoysme."

At the mention of Fenna, Mila paused.

People likgFenna, who craved

attentionswere always trouble. She

pretended to treat male friends fike

brothers in public but flirted

shartélessly with them behi6d

clased doors.

sWnovel.net o

Mila didn't want Nathan to think she was a jealous person. If she let Fenna get to her, Nathan might think she was being petty and causing unnecessary drama.

But if Miladgnored Fenna, she knew

Fenna weuld try to meddle in he”

relationship with Nathan under fhe

guise-ef being a caring friend.

reality, she was just waiting for a

chânce to interfere.

tóº o

Feeling uneasy, Mila decided to take action. She closed her book and announced, "I'm moving to Nathan's dorm."

Surprised, Phoebe asked, "Are you and Nathan okay now?"

Mila put down the book and went to her closet. She started tossing clothes onto her bed. "Phoebe, help me pack.”

Grabbing a suitcase, Phoebe packed alongside her and asked, "Mila, what's going on suddenly?"

Mila looked at Phoebe and explained solemniy, "If I keep arguing with Nathan, won't that just be playing into Fenna's hands?"

Phoebe nodded and agreed, "Exactly. Fenna wants to mess things up between you and General Morrison."

"So, don't take it out on Cole because of Fenna. It would only hurt him, and Fenna would be the only one winning."

Chapter 504

Chapter 504

Chapter 504

Mila was frustrated. She gathered her clothes and vented, "Fenna acts like she owns Nathan's place. She comes and goes as she pleases, in the house, the office, the dorm, without even knocking.

"She interferes not only in his work but also in his personal life. She's slowly taking over Nathan's life, and it would cause problems sooner or later. I need to keep a close eye on this."

Phoebe completely agreed.

…

Later that night, Nathan walked through the brightly lit dorm building while texting Mila. "I miss you. Can you spend the night in my room?"

Mila never replied. He sent another one right away. "Should I come to your room?"

There was still no reply from Mila. Nathan felt a deep emptiness in his heart. He tightened his grip on his phone and continued walking.

Fenna followed him closely. When she noticed he wasn't texting, she asked, "Did you two have another fight?"

Nathan didn't feel like answering.

Fenna continued seriously, "We need to check on the progress at the armaments department tomorrow. You should go to bed early and stop getting caught up in trifles like romance."

"You should go back and get some rest," Nathan replied flatly.

"It's still early. I'll clean up your room," Fenna said casually. "You're always busy and never have time to clean.

"I'm not like your wife, who grew up pampered. She doesn't know how to handle housework and needs someone to look after her everyday needs." Nathan stopped and took a deep breath. He was irritated by Fenna's words, even though they rang with some truth.

He suppressed his irritation and replied sternly, "My wife may not be good at housework, but she excels in other areas. She has skills that others lack, and I can make up for what she lacks."

"Nate, stop putting her on a pedestal," Fenna snapped.

Ignoring Fenna, Nathan checked his phone once more. The signal was strong, but Mila had yet to respond, even after he'd refreshed his messages several times.

Suddenly, Fenna asked, "Why is the light in your dorm on?"

Nathan looked up and noticed the light coming from his dorm. He grinned and started to walk faster, with Fenna trailing behind him. He turned to her and asked, "Why are you following me?"

Confused, Fenna replied, "Didn't I just tell you? I'm here to clean your room."

Growing impatient, Nathan warned her, "Fenna, stick to your duties and don't interfere in my personal affairs. If you can't do that, don't be surprised if I use my authority to transfer you out of here."

Fenna's cheeks puffed up as she protested, "Nate, I was just trying to do something nice for you. Are you really going to transfer me out?"

Nathan's tone was firm as he replied, "There's no need for you to do anything nice for me. I won't hesitate to let you go if your presence threatens my marriage."

Sounding sad, Fenna asked, "Does our ten-year friendship mean nothing to you?"

"I've been devoted to Wanda for over a decade and have endured a lot to marry her. I don't mind losing our friendship. I won't hesitate even if I need to sacrifice my career or life." He stressed every word coldly. "So, don't get any false hopes from me."

Fenna stood frozen with teary eyes as Nathan walked away without sparing her a glance. After a moment, her voice rang out. "I don't want to ruin your marriage, and I don't care if you love me. I just want to be there for you."

Chapter 505

Chapter 505

Nathan was furious. He clenched his fists and wondered if Fenna was being loud on purpose.

He feared that if Mila were in his room, she might hear Fenna and be overcome by jealousy and start overthinking. Mila was pregnant, so her emotions were already haywire.

Nathan didn't know how to deal with Fenna's crush on him. The mere thought of Mila being in his dorm made him lose interest in Fenna. Longing for Mila, he quickly returned to his dorm.

The door swung open as he was about to enter the code on the keypad. Mila was there with a bright smile.

Nathan smiled back and gazed at her intensely. He closed the door, lifted Mila, and they went into the dorm together.

Mila put her arms around his neck and pretended to be upset as she said, "I just overheard Fenna confessing her feelings for you."

"I've turned her down. Don't worry about it." Nathan brushed it off.

"Can I not be worried if another woman's interested in my husband?" Mila asked with a sigh.

Nathan carried Mila to the couch and sat down beside her. He kissed her forehead and changed the subject. "When did you get here?"

Mila didn't push further when she noticed that Nathan was trying to move away from talking about Fenna. "Il came after lunch and spent some time checking out the blueprints."

"What blueprints?"

Mila pointed to the stack of blueprints on his bedside table. They were for the latest fighter aircraft.

Nathan grinned in response. He cupped her face tenderly as he leaned in for a kiss. Mila pushed against his chest and pulled away. "Oh, don't. You're always kissing me when I'm around."

Nathan offered a bitter smile. "lt's hard seeing you. Besides, what else can I do other than kiss you?"

Mila giggled. Then, Nathan leaned in again to kiss her lips. She closed her eyes and surrendered to the moment as he kissed her passionately. It was late at night, and the room felt

warm andtcomfortable. Nathan took

off his jãuket, feeling feverish from

kissing her. Eventually, he coufedn't

stanêh: any longer and had to pull

himself from Mila. Content.belongs

tóº =

Finding the heat unbearable, Nathan said, "I'm going to shower. You can get some rest on the bed." He undressed and went into the bathroom. Mila thought Nathan was funny. He had kissed her first, and now he was fighting his urges.

"Nate, how much will the new fighter cost? Tens of billions?" Mila asked loudly.

With the door-to the bathroom still

open, the sofad of running water

and Nathar's voice could be heard

from inside. "Yes, it'Il cost several”

tens Qfbillions, and even then, We're

Sã ju outdated models, We're

considering starting our preject to

dévelop new ones." Contént belongs

Mila went over to the bathroom door and leaned against the wall. The scent of shower gel wafted out, and she blushed at some random thoughts. "Do we have a technical engineer for that?" Mila asked.

"Yeah, but she's pregnant. So, we'll have to plan the project first and wait," Nathan replied calmly.

Mila smiled and gently touched her growing bump. A mixture of emotions flooded over her.

Nathan cared for both his country

and his family. But he seemed toqsút

their cKild and Mila first. He was

Willy to wait on national isgues if it

didh't affect the fundamentals.

Just then, Mila's phone rang. She sat on the couch and picked it up from the table. It was Sienna calling her.

"Hey, Sienna," Mila answered the call.

"I'm sorry to bother you so late, Wanda," Sienna said softly.

"That's okay, I'm still up. What's going on?" Mila asked.

Chapter 506

Chapter 506

Mila was surprised. "You quit your job?" she exclaimed.

"Yes, and about the debt I owe—"

"Can we not talk about money?" Mila cut her off. "You know that I don't care about it. I don't even mind if you don't pay me back."

Sienna smiled helplessly. "Wanda, I understand you're not short of money, but it's only fair to pay back debts. Paying what I owe isn't going to affect

our friendship, but it's a matter of principle.”

Mila understood that everyone had their principles. She respected Sienna's. "Okay, then take your time to pay it back. No rush."

"Thank you, Wanda."

"Why did you suddenly quit? Has Daniel's eyesight recovered?" Mila asked.

Sienna replied gloomily, "Not yet, but he's in good spirits. There are several maids at his place. It doesn't matter if I'm there or not."

"Did Daniel fire you?"

"No, I handed my resignation to Madam Florence. I didn't tell him."

"Why?" Mila couldn't understand why she would quit such an easy and well-paying job.

"I'm 26 but still single. My parents are pressuring me to get married. They set me up on a date with a small factory owner in town."

"A date?"

Sienna laughed. "Yeah, the guy's in his 30s and from our hometown. He owns a clothing factory, a car, and a house. His financial situation seems

okay. I want to give it a try and see if it works out. After all, I'm getting older and can't afford to waste any time."

"You're only 26. You're still young.

"My classmate is a mother of two at 26," Sienna replied.

Mila paused briefly before asking, "Sienna, do you not feel any connection with Daniel?"

Sienna's response was dramatic, her voice even getting louder. "Are you serious? I should be grateful that he hasn't strangled me yet."

Mila let out a deep sigh. "That's a pity."

"What's a pity? I don't even dare to entertain the thought. Daniel comes from a wealthy family. He's an undercover narcotics agent, and his brother is

a military general.

"I'm just a small-town girl with an average family and education. I barely scrape by writing a few novels online. Daniel wouldn't even glance my way.

How could I ever measure up to him?"

"Sienna, do you want to discuss quitting with Daniel before you leave?"

"I'm already heading back to my hometown."

Mila was taken aback.

"Forget it. I'm probably too fierce and sharp-tongued. He likely wants me out anyway," Sienna remarked.

"That's not true at all. That's just a front. And Daniel hasn't had the chance to know the real you yet," Mila reassured her.

Sienna sighed. "Let's not talk about Daniel. When I get married, I'll invite you to my wedding. Will you honor me with your presence?"

"Of course, I'll bring my husband and child." Mila smiled.

"Perfect, it's a deal."

"I hope you find someone who shares your values and has a wonderful life together.”

"Wanda, I appreciate your kind words." Sienna looked ahead to her future.

Chapter 507

Chapter 507

Mila had just finished her phone call when a pleasant scent drifted by. The next moment, Nathan pulled her into his arms. He was dressed lightly, and

Mila could feel his warmth.

As she nestled against his broad and sturdy chest, her heart raced. Nathan whispered in her ear, "Who were you talking to?"

Mila put her phone down and leaned against him. "It was Sienna. She quit her job."

Nathan was surprised and asked, "Did Daniel agree?"

"She didn't tell Daniel. Your parents are the ones who pay her, after all.”

Nathan nodded and responded with a hum of understanding. He gently brushed his lips across her cheek and said, "You smell nice. Have you

showered?

Mila flushed and glanced down. "Yes, I did. What are you up for?"

Nathan chuckled and hugged her tighter. "We've nothing else to do, so let's just talk.”

Mila lowered her head and touched his hand. "What do you want to talk about?"

"Let's talk about your return to Sunterland, your pregnancy, how you've been feeling lately, and how much you love me. I want to hear whatever's on

your mind."

Mila met his eyes warmly. "Do you want to feel it?"

Nathan froze. Then, Mila slipped his hand under her clothes. He swallowed nervously and said huskily, "I've just showered. Don't tempt me."

Mila giggled. "What do you think I'm asking you to touch?" She guided his hand to her baby bump.

Embarrassed by his misunderstanding, Nathan smiled awkwardly and touched her stomach. "You're almost seven months pregnant, but your baby

bump's still small.”

Mila nodded and agreed, "Our baby's very thoughtful. My pregnancy has been pretty easy. I haven't had any backache or trouble moving."

Nathan didn't manage to look after Mila during the early stages of her pregnancy. He felt regretful and said, "You need to keep me informed about

every prenatal checkup from now on."

"Sure," Mila replied with a happy smile.

Unable to resist, Nathan pulled her close. He kissed and gently nuzzled her neck. His warm breath tickled her skin.

"Nate, it tickles," Mila said, drawing back.

Nathan's kisses moved to her rosy cheeks. They made her feel cherished and loved. It was a departure from his usual seriousness to show such

tender affection.

Mila felt special. She knew she was the only one who could see Nathan's gentle and passionate side like this.

Feeling warm and fluttery inside at Nathan's playful teasing, she whispered in his ear, "Actually, if you're a little more gentle, we could make love."

Nathan frowned at her, who was blushing. After composing himself, he kissed her forehead and said, "I won't take the risk, even if there's the slightes

danger. You don't have to worry about my urges. I can control them. I'll handle it myself if I can't.”

Mila smiled awkwardly. She closed her eyes and leaned against him.

Nathan held her close and leaned against the couch. They cuddled quietly together. Just being close to each other fulfilled all their emotional needs.

After some time, Mila drifted to sleep in Nathan's comforting hug.

Chapter 508

Chapter 508

Nathan put one hand on Mila's stomach and stroked her hair with the other.

A flood of emotions overwhelmed him as he said, "If you hadn't lost your memory, we wouldn't have met in this lifetime, and I wouldn't be married to

you. Wanda, I've loved you for more than 20 years, ever since we were children, haven't I? Wanda?"

Nathan looked at Mila, who was lying in his arms. When he saw she was fast asleep, he couldn't help but smile blissfully and kiss her.

Late in the night, there was a sudden knock at the door. Nathan turned on a dim light which illuminated the dark room. He turned to Mila. She was

fast asleep next to him.

When he saw that she wasn't disturbed, he quickly pulled the covers aside and went to open the door. He pushed Cole outside. Then, he closed the

door so as not to wake Mila.

With a nervous look, Cole said, "General Morrison, our target has taken the bait."

Nathan's eyes lit up in response. "Right now?"

"Yes, the target's heading to where they're hiding."

Nathan felt a surge of excitement. "Have we found their hiding place?"

Cole nodded. "Yes, it's in Hoffis Manor."

Nathan's expression grew serious. "The most dangerous places are often the safest ones. That's a bold move."

Cole looked puzzled. "General Morrison, we've had informants at Hoffis Manor watching Avery's every move for the past six months, but we haven't

come up with anything yet."

"Has Avery been suspicious?" Nathan asked.

Cole thought for a moment, then replied, "No. She only stays at Hoffis Manor except when she goes to the military base for work. Occasionally, she

will attend a few important meetings, but..."

"Go on."

"Her brother moved into Hoffis Manor a month ago.”

"She has a brother?" Nathan was surprised.

Cole paused briefly before continuing, "We've checked, and she does have a brother who went abroad to study when they were young, but there's nc

information on him."

Sensing something was amiss, Nathan said, "Watch her brother.”

"Got it," Cole replied. Suddenly, his phone rang. With a nod to Nathan, he immediately answered the call. A mysterious and wary voice spoke from

the other end.

A few moments later, Cole hung up and hurriedly said, "General Morrison, our informant has found a hidden underground passage at Hoffis Manor."

Nathan glanced back at the dorm. Despite his reluctance to leave Mila, he instructed firmly, "Arrange a flight back immediately.”

"Got it," Cole replied before leaving.

Nathan made his way back to the dorm to change his clothes. He gently leaned over the bed and kissed Mila's forehead.

Mila slowly opened her eyes and looked up at Nathan, who was bathed in a soft glow of light.

"Did I wake you?" Nathan asked softly.

When Mila saw him all dressed up to leave, she understood he was on another mission. She smiled at him and shook her head. "It's all right. Where

are you going?"

"To Phoenicia," Nathan replied as he gently stroked her forehead. "Stay here and take care. Don't strain yourself."

"Be careful," Mila whispered. She reached out to touch his handsome face.

"l will," Nathan assured her. He kissed the back of her hand.

Mila was worried about him. His sudden departure in the middle of the night meant it had to be an urgent mission. Besides her concern for his safety,

she also worried about Fenna being around him.

"Are you bringing Fenna with you?" Mila asked.

"No," Nathan replied with a gentle smile.

"Nate, can you get Fenna transferred away from you?"

Nathan seemed troubled as he explained, "She was assigned to me personally by the President. It won't be easy to get her transferred.”

Chapter 509

Chapter 509

"I'm sure you'll find a way. Just try to make it work," Mila said.

She understood her discomfort with Fenna might stem from her insecurities, but she was also aware that loyalty wasn't enough to sustain a marriage

Mila would never feel safe as long as Fenna was around Nathan.

Nathan stroked Mila's hand and reassured her, "Mila, I've had assurances from Fenna that she won't interfere in our marriage. She's not a bad

person, so you don't have to worry about her doing anything outrageous.”

Mila's mood darkened. She pulled her hand away and wrapped herself in the covers. She turned away and closed her eyes.

"Take care of yourself and come back safely," she murmured.

"All right." Nathan felt her indifference and decided to say nothing more. He tucked her in, turned off the light, and left.

It was 5:00 am in Phoenicia. Soldiers from the military base surrounded Hoffis Manor. Everyone was jolted awake. Avery showed up dressed in thick

pajamas and with her hair disheveled.

She stared at Nathan's imposing figure and asked, "What's going on? Trespassing in Norvania is a serious crime."

Cole flashed Avery a search warrant. She watched worriedly as armed soldiers entered and exited every room.

Nathan made his way to the couch and sat down. His expression was grave as he waited in silence.

Sitting opposite Nathan, Avery pretended to be calm and asked, "General Morrison, we haven't seen each other in six months. Why the sudden visit?

And what's with all the theatrics?"

Nathan maintained his stoic look in silence.

Avery crossed her legs and assumed a seductive pose, with one hand resting on the back of her head and the other lightly tapping her knee.

She gazed dreamily at Nathan and smiled. "You're charming, but why don't you smile or talk more?"

Nathan's gaze hardened and cut right through Avery's facade. Her heart pounded, and she swallowed nervously. His intense gaze sent chills down

her spine and made her tremble with nervousness.

Still, Avery had mastered keeping her emotions in check after years of corporate life. Feigning calm, she teased, "General Morrison, I hear you're still

single. I wonder what kind of woman you fancy? I don't know if someone like me, the richest widow in Norvania, would catch your eye?"

Nathan froze at the news of her being a widow. "Oliver's dead?" he asked with a look of indifference.

"Yes. He was killed in a fire two months ago. His ashes were scattered at the sea," Avery replied calmly.

Nathan's expression hardened further. He stared at Avery with an unreadable look.

Avery was terrified, but she continued, "I have all the paperwork—death certificate, cremation certificate, everything. I can show them to you if you

doubt me."

"Not necessary. If he really wanted to die, there's probably a way for him to be reborn," Nathan replied indifferently.

Avery chuckled awkwardly. "Your words are somewhat cryptic.”

"Where's your brother?"

Avery glanced worriedly toward the second floor.

Right then, one of the soldiers called out, "General Morrison, we've found the hidden passage."

Nathan hurried over. Avery was close behind, her anxiety on the rise.

Nathan entered a storeroom. Darkness greeted them as he opened the hidden door in the wall.

Cole pulled out a flashlight, and a couple of soldiers formed a protective shield around Nathan as they entered the passage. Avery peered anxiously

into the passage before hurrying off to the second floor.

Meanwhile, Nathan and the team went through the dark passage to the lower level. Suddenly, they found themselves in a spacious room.

Cole located the switch and turned on the lights.

Chapter 510

Chapter 510

Nathan and his team stumbled upon an extremely luxurious secret basement. It had a king-sized gray bed, a bar stocked with fancy wines, a home

theater system, books, and almost everything.

Although the soldiers searched the place, they didn't find anyone.

Nathan carefully examined the place but didn't find anything suspicious. Someone was obviously living there, but they weren't Mila's missing family.

"General Morrison, take a look at this." Cole's voice was tense.

Nathan turned and saw Cole holding a scalpel. "Where did you get that?"

"From a drawer.”

"That's Oliver's," Nathan said gravely.

"You mean he's been hiding out at Hoffis Manor all this time?"

"He and Lucas have been hiding here," Nathan said confidently.

"Where are they now?" Cole asked.

Nathan thought briefly, then quickly headed outside. "Let's look for Avery's brother."

They all left the hidden passage and entered the living room. Avery came downstairs with a slightly plump man. His face was puffy, his features

somewhat unnatural, and his eyes piercingly cold.

Nathan's expression turned solemn as he silently watched the man approach.

The man held out his hand politely. "Hello, General Morrison. I'm Hugo Talerico, Avery's older brother." His voice sounded strained, as if he had been

injured in some way.

Nathan remained silent and didn't shake his hand. His face hardened, and his gaze became icy.

Cole studied Hugo with a pensive look. Hugo awkwardly pulled his hand back with a smile and asked, "So, did you find anything at Avery's place?

Has she broken any laws?"

Without answering, Nathan simply commanded, "End the search.”

Cole quickly ordered the soldiers to leave. Nathan then turned to Avery and asked, "Lucas is dead too, isn't he?"

Avery's face paled. With a nervous smile, she asked, "Who's Lucas? I didn't understand a word you said, General Morrison."

Nathan smiled thinly and left with Cole. Their vehicles drove down the road.

"General Morrison, why did you bring up Lucas earlier?" Cole asked.

Nathan leaned back in his seat with his eyes closed. "Didn't you notice?"

"Notice what?"

"Avery's older brother, Hugo."

"I didn't know him, but there was something familiar about his eyes."

"That's Lucas."

Cole stared at Nathan in disbelief. He clenched his fists in frustration. "General Morrison, why didn't you just gun down that traitor?"

"He has been found out, so keeping him alive might be useful. It's Oliver I'm most worried about right now. He's the most dangerous of all.”

Cole finally put the pieces together. "So, they've been in hiding for the last six months, getting plastic surgery and faking their deaths. They want new

faces, new identities, and a fresh start."

Nathan furrowed his brow. A hint of worry crept into his face. They still couldn't locate Oliver. No one knew what kind of disguise the devil might be

wearing.

Milas entire family had fallen into his clutches. He feared that Mila would be his next victim.