Ch. 571..580

Chapter 571

Daniel's Adam's apple bobbed as he searched for the right words, his voice husky and hesitant. "Sienna, if you're willing, I'll transfer all my shares from the family to you. My salary, savings from my insurance, a few properties, and some investment projects-"

But before Daniel could finish laying out his financial situation to express his sincerity, Sienna interrupted, "I appreciate your generosity, but I don't want to be kept as a mistress."

Daniel's fist tightened, silencing his words. He forced a bitter smile and lowered his head in silence.

Sienna's emotions churned within her. Drawing a deep breath, she gathered her courage and said, "Daniel, my family isn't wealthy, and I'm just a writer, struggling to earn a living through my online novels. But have my principles; I won't accept being kept."

His grip on his fist intensified, discomfort gnawing at him.

Exhaling softly, Sienna's voice lightened as she smiled gently. "I hope to find someone with shared values, to build a life together, raise a family, and live a simple life.

"Money isn't everything to me. Even when my father fell ill and we were buried in debt, I never considered selling myself or being kept. And I certainly won't now. "Thank you for your kindness, Daniel." Rising gracefully, Sienna bid her farewell. "Take care. I shall leave."

A darkness settled over Daniel's heart, mirroring his hollow eyes, heavy and oppressive. His clenched fist ached with the intensity of his emotions.

He simply wanted her by his side. How had things come to this?

It was Sienna who first mentioned being kept. The allure of the word had blinded him to its implications, and he had eagerly grasped at the opportunity.

He wanted to care for her, to be with her, but not in such a superficial way.

When Daniel snapped back to reality, the sound of the door closing echoed in his ears.

Panicking, he leaped to his feet, knocking into the coffee table with his knee. Ignoring the pain, he hurriedly moved forward.

"Sienna!" Daniel's cried out, "Sienna-" But he stumbled into a couch ahead and almost fell.

With his hand blindly reaching out, eyes brimming with tears, and heart aching, Daniel called out, "Sienna!"

But there was no response from beyond the door.

She was gone.

Daniel swiftly reached for his phone in his pocket, urgency coloring his voice as he commanded, "Hey Siri, call Chubs."

The phone's voice assistant promptly replied, "Sure, dialing Chubs' number now."

Almost instantly, Daniel intervened, "Siri, cancel the call."

"Understood, the call has been canceled."

Dismissing his phone onto the couch, Danjel made his way over and sank into it. He placed a hand over his forehead and closed his eyes, @cloud of desolation settling over him, his smile edged with bitterness.

If Sienna wasn't swayed by money,

what could he offer her? His longit inter seemed to have tipped him

for

into recklessness.

As a blind man, where did he summon the audacity to even consider marrying her?

As the night grew deeper, Mila lay restlessly in bed, sleep eluding her. Nathan, who had promised an early return, was absent, leaving behind only a brief message.

"Chubs, I got an urgent mission. I'll be back late. Rest and don't wait for me."

Worry gnawed at Mila. His mention of an urgent mission was unusual. She wondered how critical could it be.

Yielding to her concern, she texted, "Any news about my grandfather?"

Chapter 572

Soon after, Nathan sent a document over to Mila without any accompanying message. Mila clicked open and found a recorded message inside. She listened attentively as Avery's voice filled the recording. Avery's voice came through. "You sly fox, you actually hid a 28-billion mansion? You sure know how to keep secrets."

Confused, Zach asked, "What are you talking about?"

Mila's heart ached as she heard Zach's voice. Overwhelmed with emotions, she covered her mouth to muffle her sobs.

Avery pressed on, "Still pretending, are you?"

Zach countered, "What do you want?"

Avery instructed, "Draft a new will. Transfer the mansion to Oliver. Trust me, it's in your best interest to do as I said. Or else, you, your son, daughter-in-law, and grandson won't see another sunrise."

It dawned on Mila how risky Nathan's move had been. Without any direct contact with Zach, Nathan had gambled on guessing his reactions and intentions.

Had Zach denied it all or been uncooperative, the plan would've unraveled.

As Mila anxiously held her breath, praying that Zach would be clever enough to handle the situation, Zach spoke again, "I can change the will, but I want to visit Loretta's grave."

"You're in no position to negotiate," Avery shot back.

Defeated, Zach replied, "Then go ahead and end us all. Ever since Loretta passed, life lost its meaning.

"My family has been your prisoners for years. Once you've siphoned off our family's assets abroad, they won't survive either."

There was a brief silence before Avery finally responded, "Fine, I'll grant your wish, but I'll decide the timing."

"Agreed," Zach replied.

The recorded conversation stirred deep emotions in Mila, her eyes welling with tears. Amidst her overwhelming feelings, a glimmer of hope ignited.

For the past six months, Nathan had

kept a close watch on Avery. Avery

had never attempted to contact Oliver, nor had she reached out to Zach or her parents.

Yet, what Avery didn't know was the extent of advanced surveillance technology. Even with a new number, any signal she sent be detected within the vicinity.

Nathan hağ dangled a 28-billion bait, aiming to entice Avery into

contacting Zach about changing the will. The moment she reached out to Zach, their location would be pinpointed.

What surprised Mila was Zach's sharp wit.

Realizing he had no 28-billion estate to leave in a will, he immediately saw through the ruse, recognizing it as a trap.

The meticulous planning and significant resources behind the trap hinted at someone powerful.

Zach quickly deduced Nathan's involvement and craftily suggested a visit to Loretta's grave, a seemingly innocent request.

Mila refrained from contacting Nathan with calls or messages. She knew Nathan and his team were lying in wait around the graveyard in the dead of night. Unsure of when Avery would bring Zach for the visit, they remained vigilant at all times.

The wait was agonizingly long, fraught with the risk of exposure.

All Mila could do was silently pray and refrain from interfering, hoping that when dawn broke, her precious family would appear before her, safe and sound.

Chapter 573

Battling her restless anxiety, Mila endured a sleepless night, her heart filled with anticipation.

As the second day dawned, Nathan was still nowhere to be seen.

Hesitant to disturb him with a call, Mila found herself trapped in a torturous cycle of hope and apprehension.

Time seemed to stretch endlessly and each passing second weighed heavily on her. Her gaze fixed unwaveringly on the door, longing for Nathan's return. Yet, he remained absent.

By the late hours of the third day, Mila stumbled upon breaking news while scrolling through her phone. A fierce gun battle had erupted at Memorial Heights, with residents capturing the chaos on video and sharing it online.

The darkness of the night concealed the faces, leaving only the echoing sounds of gunfire.

Driven by overwhelming concern, Mila dialed Nathan's number, only to be greeted by the automated message indicating his phone was switched off.

She tossed her phone aside and sank onto her bed in discouragement. Her heart was heavy with oppressive dread as if caught in a whirlwind of worry.

At three in the morning, Mila was still wide awake.

She stood on the balcony in her coat with cold wind brushing against her. Her eyes fixed on the grand iron gate leading to the garden while silently praying for Nathan's safe return.

Time seemed to crawl until, suddenly, headlights pierced the darkness as a luxury car entered the villa. Mila immediately dashed into the house and toward the entrance.

Nathan stepped out of the car and before he could close the door, a figure rushed toward him.

"Nate!" Mila's voice choked with emotion.

Nathan's face revealed a blend of joy and concern. It was nearing four in the morning, yet Mila had not slept.

Before he could react, Mila rushed into his embrace, her arms circled his neck, and hugged him with all her might.

Nathan, in turn, wrapped his arms around her waist.

Given their height difference, Mila's feet left the ground. Her entire body was enveloped in the warmth of Nathan's embrace.

"Are you injured?" Mila's eyes brimmed with tears, her gaze filled with concern.

Without uttering a word, Nathan felt the soft warmth of her body, the depth of her care evident in her eyes. The intensity of her concern allowed him to deeply feel her love.

Without hesitation, he sealed the moment with a deep and passionate kiss.

Cole drove toward the garage, discreetly leaving space for the couple.

Mila was taken aback by Nathan's sudden kiss. Initially evading, she soon found herself overwhelmed by Nathan's intense embrace. Her hands instinctively cradled his head as they shared this fervent moment.

Possibly due to the long absence of such intimacy, Nathan appeared to lose his usual restraint.

Eventually, Mila felt as though she was breathless, fearing Nathan might consume her with his fervor.

"W-Wait. Hold on," Mila whispered, her voice trembling as she attempted to catch her breath.

Reluctantly, Nathan paused. His breathing was heavy, warming her cheek with each exhale. It was a sensation that felt like wildfire spreading across her skin.

Mila felt her body ache from the intensity of their embrace. She lowered her blushed face and uttered, "We're outside; someone might see us."

Smirking, Nathan replied, "Who else but you would be awake at four in the morning?"

"I couldn't sleep," Mila murmured.

With hands supporting her hips, Nathan effortlessly lifted her into his arms and walked purposefully toward the house.

Mila clung tightly to Nathan's neck, afraid of falling. Her legs encircled his waist as she said, "Nate, put me down. I can walk." "Shh," Nathan hushed gently.

With swift strides, he carried Mila back to the room and nudged the door shut behind them.

The warmly lit room seemed to

dissolve Nathan's exhaustion. Gently

laying Mila on the bed, he leaned

over her and supported his weight on his elbows as he tenderly pressed his body against hers.

Chapter 574

Nathan's intense gaze met Mila's as he tenderly stroked her long hair. Anxiously pursing her lips, Mila asked, "Nate, how's the plan going?"

"Let's save that talk for the morning, alright?" His eyes lingered on her soft pink lips, a subtle tension evident in the movement of his Adam's apple.

"Okay," Mila replied softly. Her hand gently caressed his seemingly weary face. "You must be exhausted. How about a bath to relax? Then you can get some rest."

"I'm not tired." Nathan's voice was husky and his eyes were glowing like embers. "I'll take a shower. Wait for me."

Assuming he had something to share, Mila nodded. "Alright."

Nathan stood, shedding his jacket before placing his phone on the bedside table and heading into the bathroom.

Mila sat up to check his phone and found it dead. She quickly fetched a charger and plugged it in. Tidying up the bed sheets, she settled into the space he intended to sleep in, warming it for him.

Ten minutes later, the sound of the bathroom door opening echoed. Mila sat up eagerly and said, "Nate, I've warmed up the bed for you, you..."

Her words trailed off.

Before Mila stood Nathan, towel in hand, wiping his damp hair.

His defined features remained as striking as ever, his torso bare, covered only by a bath towel wrapped around his waist.

His broad shoulders, trim waist, and muscular physique were breathtaking. His chest was firm, his abs clearly defined, and his V-line subtly visible.

The sight of Nathan, fresh from his bath, exuded raw masculinity.

Seldom seeing him undressed, Mila's face flushed, her heart racing with a sudden shyness. She lowered her eyes and mumbled, "I... You should get some sleep." Nathan set down the towel, supporting himself as he leaned toward her.

Mila dropped her gaze further,

almost hiding her chin in her neck.

Her cheeks were warm and her

heart was pounding as she

е

questioned, "Aren't you going to put something on?"

Nathan remembered the last time he'd only worn shorts to bed, her cheeks had flushed just as they were now.

With a gentle smile, Nathan lifted her chin to meet her shy eyes. "We already had a child, and I'm merely without a shirt. What's making you blush?" he whispered.

Mila nervously touched her warm cheeks and then pushed against his cool chest. "You've just returned from a mission, you must be exhausted. You should rest." Ignoring her resistance, Nathan drew her closer and kissed her lips. "I'm not tired, Chubs," he whispered between their soft exchanges.

Lost in the depth of his kiss, Mila closed her eyes and surrendered to the embrace of his passion.

"Did you miss me?" His voice, husky and deep sent shivers down here spine. Trailing kisses from her lips to her cheek, then to her ear, he whispered, "You're up so late, worried about me, weren't you?"

His heart ached to hear her thoughts. Long-neglected emotions left him feeling tormented by emptiness. Nathan yearned to hear Mila express her love and longing for him. His vacant heart sought her to fill its void.

Mila's body tensed at the soft touch of his lips on her earlobe, a shy moan escaping her lips. She was too overwhelmed by his tender advances to respond.

His large hand slipped beneath her nightgown, tracing a slow, deliberate path.

It was then that Mila realized that rest was the last thing on his mind.

Chapter 575

Mila firmly held Nathan's wrist, her dazed eyes meeting his intense gaze. Panting softly, she said, "Nate, it's four in the morning. You haven't been getting enough rest lately. You can't keep this up." Nathan withdrew his hand and gently caressed her cheek with a look of deep affection, his voice tinged with a hint of hurt. "Are you not feeling well, or are you trying to distance yourself from me?" Quick to reassure, Mila explained, "It's been two months, and I feel perfectly fine. I'm just worried about you."

Without a second thought, Nathan draped himself with the blanket, swiftly discarding the towel underneath. In an instant, he pressed his body against her abdomen, his desire palpable. Sleep was far from his mind now.

Mila stiffened, her body tensing as her cheeks flushed. She turned her face away shyly and bit her lip.

Leaning in, Nathan whispered in her ear, "If it's your health you're concerned about, I can wait. But if you're worried about me being tired, I can't."

Swallowing nervously, Mila felt the pressure on her abdomen, her eyes closing in embarrassment.

"Please?" Nathan kissed her neck, his husky voice soothing. "I'll be gentle and quick."

Gentle and quick? Though they'd been intimate only once, Mila's memory told her otherwise.

Thinking that the sooner they started, the sooner they'd finish, and he could finally rest, Mila shyly hummed an affirmative.

With a tender smile, Nathan kissed her lips, his fingers skillfully unbuttoning her nightgown.

Fiery desire burned in the depths of the night. True intimacy from skin contact and deep physical connection were the finest remedies for emotions.

The biggest lie Mila had ever heard from Nathan was his promise to be gentle and quick.

The time left before dawn was hardly enough for him. And considering she had recently given birth, his restraint was commendable.

As the early morning sun rose, Mila

didn't drift into sleep from exhaustion but from the passionate intensity of the moment. When she next woke, the evening had already settled in.

Mila felt her stomach growling hungrily, her thighs feeling weak and sore. The aftermath was truly intense. Even after hours of sleep, she still felt drained.

Rising from the bed, she headed to the bathroom for a hot bath, which finally rejuvenated her.

Upon emerging from the bath, Mila found several dishes of food on the coffee table.

Finding herself alone in the room, she walked over and lifted the lids, revealing her favorite dishes. Without hesitation, Mila sat down and began to eat.

After some time, a soft noise caught her attention. Mila glanced toward the door, to see Nathan entering. With a hint of shyness still lingering, she lowered her gaze and continued eating.

The room was bathed in the warm, golden glow of the evening sun filtering through the balcony, lending it a cozy ambiance.

Nathan approached and took a seat beside her and affectionately patted her head. With a doting tone, he commented, "You sure can sleep." With a bite filled with subtle reproach, Mila responded, "I'm not like you, full of energy. An hour or two of rest doesn't recharge me." Sensing a shift in her mood, Nathan leaned closer to read her expression. "Are you upset?"

Setting down her spoon, Mila wiped her mouth delicately with a napkin and took a sip of soup before answering, "I'm not."

Undeterred, Nathan lifted her onto his lap, the intimate gesture laden with ambiguity. Mila pushed him away nervously. "What are you doing?"

Despite her efforts, he easily held her close. His large hand encircled her slender waist, his brows furrowing as he looked into her eyes. After a moment of scrutiny, he asked, "Why do you look upset?"

Chapter 576

"I'm not upset," Mila replied.

She shifted on Nathan's lap, the closeness making her cheeks flush. "You're the one who's worn me out, yet you have the nerve to say I sleep well," she murmured.

Nathan couldn't help but chuckle. Cupping her face, he gently kissed her red lips. "I promise it won't happen again."

"Do you honestly think I'll believe you?" Mila's pout revealed her skepticism.

"That was because I've been holding back for too long," Nathan replied, taking her hand and caressing it tenderly. His eyes earnestly met hers as he added, "I'll make sure it's more frequent from now on." His words made Mila's cheeks heat up even more.

Nathan brought her delicate hand to his lips and planted a kiss on it before cradling it in his own. "Are you still hungry?"

"No, I'm full," Mila said, pulling her hand back cautiously, her eyes wary. "You're not planning on doing that again, are you?"

With a sigh and a bittersweet smile, Nathan responded, "I'm always ready, but only when you are. I won't push you."

"So what's your plan?"

"Now that you've eaten, I want to you to meet someone." Nathan's voice softened, a glimmer of hope lighting up his eyes.

Encouraged by his hopeful gaze, Mila stood and grabbed his hand eagerly. "Let's go now."

Nathan nodded and followed her lead.

An hour later, Nathan pulled up to the military hospital.

It was the most secure hospital in Phoenicia, typically reserved for military personnel and VIPs. Apart from medical treatment, it also offered top-tier security.

Mila felt her heart racing as she

stepped out of the car. Holding Nathan's hand tightly, she navigated through the stringent security

checks and entered the VIP ward.

through the stringentet

Despite the darkness outside, the hospital glowed brightly within.

The guard opened the door for them. Inside the spacious ward, Mila could see an elderly person lying on the bed from a distance.

With a nervous glance at Nathan, Mila asked, "Who exactly are we meeting?"

"You'll see," Nathan replied, guiding her inside.

As Mila approached the bed, the elder lying there suddenly sat up.

Their eyes met, and both pairs welled with tears in an instant.

The elder's face bore the marks of shair a mix of gray and

trolled his eyes as el

trembling hands reached out

to Mila.

"Grandpa!" Mila cried, rushing into Zach's embrace.

Relief and joy flooded Mila as she saw Zach alive. Yet, it also reopened the wound of Loretta's tragic death, deepening her grief.

Zach's hands trembled as he held Mila. His voice choked with emotion, he said, "Chubs, it's good to see you before I go."

Mila's voice quivered as she replied, "You're not leaving us, Grandpa. Don't say that."

Gently pushing Mila back, Zach wiped away her tears. "Chubs, please don't cry. I'm alright now."

Tears cascaded down Mila's cheeks.

She

the bed, burying her.

inds."Grandpa, I'm so s "Grandpa, I'm

t save Grandma

Zach consoled her, "It's not your fault. Don't blame yourself. It was that monster who held a grudge against Loretta."

With a sniffle, Mila asked with concern, "Grandpa, where are my parents and brother? Are they alright?"

Chapter 577

As Zach gently wiped away Mila's tears, he comforted her with tender words, "Chubs, don't worry. They are safe, just held captive."

"Do you know where they are?" Mila inquired, her voice filled with concern.

Zach shook his head and let out a weary sigh. "I'm not sure. The place is surrounded by high walls and tight security. There's no way out."

"What about Oliver? Has he tried to find you?" Mila pressed.

"He's been silent as if he's not involved at all," Zach replied. Pausing, he added, "But our every move in that house is under constant surveillance."

Approaching them, Nathan asked Zach politely, "Grandpa, can you recall any landmarks or buildings nearby?"

With a troubled expression, Zach responded, "There's nothing but mountains, forests, and trees. They've hidden their location well."

Mila's head drooped in despair.

Nathan reached out, placing a comforting hand on Mila's shoulder. "Don't worry. If I can rescue Grandpa, I can also save your parents and brother. Just give me some time."

"Okay." Mila nodded, finding a glimmer of hope in Nathan's words.

Zach gazed at Nathan with admiration, his smile filled with warmth. "Nate, you've never let me down. You're truly brilliant."

"You're too kind, Grandpa. Your insight helped me see through their plans," Nathan replied modestly.

Zach sighed deeply, "I'm not sure if I can save the 28 billion dollars."

Understanding the underlying threat, Nathan realized that even though they had managed to rescue Zach during Loretta's memorial, his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson remained captives. They served as the enemy's bargaining chips.

Their options were grim, to either comply and surrender their assets or risk losing their loved ones.

"We'll keep it safe, Grandpa," Nathan assured confidently.

Puzzled, Zach asked, "What do you mean?"

Nathan clarified, "Oliver is dead."

Zach's eyes widened in disbelief. "Oliver is dead?"

Nathan settled beside Zach and explained, "Qiver is now a wanted criminal in Norvania, so he faked his death. The world no longer knows Oliver With a new face from plastic surgery, he's living a completely different life."

Worry etched across Zach's face, his hands tightening into fists. "Isn't that even more dangerous?"

Nathan nodded. "Yes, the hidden enemies are often the most perilous."

Mila, catching the drift, spoke with a spark of realization, "So, our main concerns now are Avery and Lucas? Oliver wouldn't risk contacting us directly, fearing exposure?

Nathan smiled, reaching for Mila's hand and giving it a comforting squeeze. "Exactly."

Zach looked between Mila and Nathan in confusion. "Can someone explain what's going on?"

Nathan elaborated confidently, "Grandpa, I've employed the most advanced satellite tracking to keep a constant eye on Avery. Every signal she sends out is monitored. "I've also positioned several informants around her, from her assistant to the household staff, most of whom are loyal to me.

"If she tries to reach out to Oliver or anyone else threatening our family, we'll track them down. You and Chubs can return home and reclaim what's rightfully yours.

"Avery's every move is observed. If she communicates with anyone in the confinement, we'll trace them."

Zach, still anxious, questioned, "What if Oliver uses my son as leverage against me?"

Nathan reassured him with

unwavering confidence. "It's not

easy for Oliver to craft a new life. He

won't risk exposing himself. Ne

matter how he tries to contact you,

we'll find him."

Chapter 578

Mila seemed to grasp the situation. Her eyes brimmed with tears as she tightly held Zach's hand. "Grandpa, Nate's plan means that once he rescues you, Avery can be arrested." "Yes," Nathan confirmed.

A sigh of relief escaped Zach, tears shimmering in his eyes as he nodded in acknowledgment.

That evening, Mila stayed by Zach's side at the hospital until nightfall. While he was mostly unharmed physically, the confrontation at Memorial Heights had left him shaken up with minor injuries due to his age. Concerned for his well-being, Nathan arranged for a comprehensive medical check-up for Zach and ensured he received the necessary care. The hospital could also provide him with additional security.

At the frontiers, in the satellite monitoring room at the base, dozens of expansive screens showcased an array of satellite data. At station 28, two personnel were engrossed, monitoring and typing swiftly. Hugo's voice echoed in the room. "Isn't the Hoffis family's fortune enough for you? How could you be so greedy and naive? Falling for a mere 28 billion."

Avery countered, "It's not just about the money. It's the prime location of Norvania's most luxurious estate. It's priceless. Anyone would desire such a property."

With a smirk, Hugo retorted, "Yes, it's priceless. That's why someone as covetous as you fell for it. Now, our most significant leverage is gone. What's your plan?" Avery dismissed his concern. "We still have three more cards to play, don't we?"

Hugo's tone hardened. "You better behave. Don't ever contact them again. If our remaining leverage is exposed, we're all doomed."

"Why?"

"Do you have any idea of Nathan's capabilities?suspect our current conversation is already under

satellite Surveillance. Everyone

around you is probably bought

him Every word and every action of ours is likely monitored. One wrong move, and it's over for us

Avery scoffed, "You're overestimating him. That sounds absurd."

"While he may not have divine powers, challenging a national defense general as mere mortals is futile. Isn't the untouched Hoffis family fortune evidence enough?" Hugo asked.

He continued, "Despite our spotless

records, we face spending

restrictions.. Isn't this his doing?

Holding assets worth hundreds ret

billions for the Hoffis family, yet we're only allowed to handle minor matters. It's like working for them without pay."

Avery's voice was defiant. "He can't be that formidable. Those around me have been loyal for years. They're well-compensated and would never be bought."

Hugo's sneer deepened, his voice

dripping with disdain. "Wealth is insignificant; power is what truly matters. Nathan can control those around you and command their loyalty without spending a cent."

Avery's expression turned anxious. "Do you mean Nathan is using his power to intimidate?"

"In the face of criminals, it's not just intimidation. It's recruitment, espionage, turning someone into an informant, or even offering redemption through betrayal."

Avery's panic was palpable. "If you know his capabilities, think of a plan!"

"Now you're alarmed? Where was this concern earlier?"

"What if we seek Oliver's help? He's currently..." she suggested.

Hugo's fury erupted as he grabbed her throat. "Mind your words! We could be under surveillance."

Struggling for breath, Avery pushed Hugo away and yelled, "What are you doing? Let me go."

As Hugo released her, she retorted defiantly, "Surveillance? Look around, it's empty. How could we possibly be under surveillance here?"

Chapter 579

Hugo pointed toward the sky and said, "Look up."

"There's nothing there."

"Satellite signals," Hugo elaborated. "They can track our every move outdoors. Our phones, once receiving a signal, can be located and monitored. The nearby surveillance cameras, whether public or private, are all accessible through databases.

"Even your smartwatch, your car, and home computers, if equipped with GPS and signal reception, leave us exposed."

Avery's voice trembled. "What do we do?"

Hugo replied, "Wait and see."

Over the next few days, Zach contacted his lawyer to transfer the 28-billion-dollar estate to Nathan.

Nathan graciously declined, considering it a gift for Mila.

Touched and elated by his gesture, Zach finalized the transfer to both their names as shared assets.

After a short hospital stay, Zach was eager to leave. Mila invited him to stay at Morrison Residence.

The Morrisons, given the already close relationship and his status as the wealthiest man in Norvania, warmly welcomed Zach. Few observant relatives even vied to entertain and impress him.

Most heartwarming for Zach was seeing Mila's baby, dispelling the gloom brought about by the family situation.

While Nathan juggled his official duties, he continued investigating Mila's parents' disappearance.

Meanwhile, Mila collaborated with lawyers and company executives, strategizing to reclaim the Hoffis assets and have Avery imprisoned.

Both were deeply focused on their missions.

One day, Gary, Florence, Zach, and the baby were enjoying a stroll in the backyard while the other relatives were occupied with work, leaving only Mila and Phoebe at home.

Mila readied the necessary documents for her lawyer meeting with Phoebe. Just as they were about to leave, an unexpected guest arrived.

Edgar ushered Fenna in.

When their eyes met, a charged silence enveloped the room.

Edgar intervened gracefully, "Madam, Ms. Hudson wishes to see Mr. Morrison."

Mila responded calmly, "Nate isn't here. You knew that, didn't you?"

Edgar, slightly flustered, stammered, "M-My apologies, Madam. Ms. Hudson said she'd wait inside, so I allowed her in."

Given Fenna's previous stays and her role as Nathan's assistant, Edgar deemed a formal announcement necessary. Had it been Cole, the gates would've opened freely. With a dismissive gesture, Mila sent Edgar on his way.

Once he left, Fenna approached, her demeanor frosty. "You must've been disappointed to see me released so soon."

Mila met her gaze coolly. "It's been two weeks, standard procedure."

With a boldness that bordered on audacity, Fenna challenged, "Nate is principled, and he honors our friendship. He would never do this to me. Did you manipulate him? Use Jace and your marriage to threaten him?" .

Mila regarded her, disbelief evident in her eyes. "On what grounds do you question me?"

"My decade-long friendship with

Nate," Fenna declared, her voice

quivering, eyes teary. "We've al net

had each other's backs. I

and I'm unwaveringly rust him,

loyal to him."

Mila sensed a disturbing intensity in Fenna's words, her emotions spiraling toward obsession.

"Ms. Hudson, let's be clear here.

You're Cameron's sister. His care

and concern for you are born from his respect for Cameron, not e

romantic feelings. Your feelings for him are one-sided."

Chapter 580

"Nonsense!" Fenna roared.

Mila calmly responded, "It was solely Nate's decision to investigate you. I've never voiced an opinion on the matter."

Fenna's face darkened, her words sharp, "Are you trying to drive a wedge between us?"

Unable to hold back, Phoebe chimed in, "Mila, stop wasting your energy on her. Let's have someone escort her out."

Mila knew that wouldn't resolve the issue. Even if Fenna were to be driven out, she'd keep coming back. A more decisive approach was necessary.

She subtly squeezed Phoebe's hand, signaling her to hold back. Then, she gestured toward the house and said, "Ms. Hudson, let's discuss this inside."

Fenna walked inside, her steps deliberate.

Worried about potential conflicts, Phoebe trailed behind them.

In the living room, a maid graciously served coffee and pastries.

Fenna sat rigidly, her expression stern. Phoebe shot her a fierce look with her fists clenched. In contrast, Mila remained serene.

Sipping her coffee gracefully, Mila began, "Ms. Hudson, I understand your feelings and your desire to remain close to Nate despite our marriage. However, I'm reserved about your presence." "That's your narrow-minded thinking," Fenna snapped back.

Phoebe took a deep breath, resisting the urge to confront Fenna directly.

Despite her irritation, Mila

maintained her poise. She had faced Fenna's attempts to undermine her before. However, a war of words wouldn't resolve anything, soa better approach was needed.

Given Fenna's obsession with Nathan, even the strongest bondz would be strained. Unless Mila felt nothing for him, she could never be the understanding wife Fenna claimed.

She maintained her composure as she spoke, "Ms. Hudson, Nate would prefer you not work closely with him."

Fenna's gaze remained steadfast. "I'm not going to be influenced by your attempts to destroy my relationship with Nate." Growing impatient, Mila shot back, "Then call him yourself and confirm."

"He ignores my calls."

Without hesitation, Mila retrieved her phone, unlocked it, and extended it toward Fenna. "Use mine. He'll answer."

Fenna looked at Mila with suspicion. "What are you plotting?"

Mila felt a mix of frustration and disbelief. Fenna, who was attempting to infiltrate her marriage, was now questioning her intentions.

Gritting her teeth, Mila dialed Nathan's number, switched to speaker mode, and handed the phone over.

Just as Fenna took the phone, Nathan's voice came through, imbued with a warmth and tenderness she had never heard, "Hey there, missing me?"

Phoebe couldn't help but chuckle softly, her hand covering her amused smile.

Fenna's face paled. After gathering herself for a moment, she cleared her throat and replied, "It's me, Nate, Fenna."

Nathan's tone shifted abruptly, his

voice turning icy with anger. "Fenna, why do you have Chubs' phone?

Where is she? What are your

intentions? What's going on in your head? Why can't you live peacefully?

Must you create trouble?"