Ch. 1121..1130

Chapter 1121 Making a Fuss

Now that his scheme was exposed, Harry felt embarrassed as he sat there frozen. Rose, who saw that he was in a daze, smiled while patting the back of Mary’s hand. “Mr. Lore, Mary’s right. You should speak what’s on your mind instead of running in circles. I’m old now, so I don’t have the spirit to play this game with you. Wouldn’t that just be wasting our time?”

Squeezing out a smile, Harry replied, “You’re right, Old Mrs. Fuller. If so, I’ll speak my mind then.” “You should have,” Rose calmly stated.

Inhaling a deep breath in, Harry found himself in a difficult situation. He had gotten used to speaking in an indirect way, so diving straight into the topic was not his forte. To him, it felt like he would easily lose the dominant side of the situation.

For so many years, he had always spoken like this, even to Toby, who did not seem to mind his way of speaking.

Only this old lady has so many problems with it.

Closing his eyes, Harry disguised his opinions against her and slowly opened his mouth. “There’s this thing that happened. It’s not major nor is it minor. It’s an incident that concerns Toby’s ex-wife.”

“I would like to correct something, Mr. Lore. She’s not Toby’s ex-wife. Miss Reed has always been his wife. They have just been separated for now and will remarry each other again. Since it’s been—and always will be—Miss Reed, then there is no such thing as an ‘ex-wife’, is there?” Mary asked while smiling at Harry.

Yet, this smile was only surface deep.

Since Harry was able to decipher her true intentions, he knew that she was warning him to not speak out of line. Panicking, he felt helpless as he maintained his smile and replied, “You’re right, Mary. I worded that wrongly. You won’t hear it again.”

Regardless, he was not about to admit that he said that on purpose.

Naturally, Mary and Rose could hear how stubborn he was behaving. This was no surprise because they knew how he was like.

“Since you know your mistake, Mr. Lore, please continue.” Mary decided to not expose him while gesturing for him to continue.

Taking another deep breath, Harry tried his best to compose himself before continuing, “The scandal that concerned Miss Reed went like this. Apparently, she and her friend were discussing business at a hotel when a paparazzi took a photo of them. When it was uploaded online, the article stated that she betrayed Toby and had an affair with that friend of hers.

It became a major topic online and everybody believed that was what she did. So, for a period of time, a lot of malicious comments were directed at Miss Reed until she managed to find evidence to prove herself innocent. Then, she exposed the real perpetrator, who happened to not be the media company. Rather, it was my granddaughter that ordered the company to do it.”

“Oh, really?” Mary acted like she was hearing it for the first time.

She was a capable actress as she had a lot of experience when dealing with her enemies. As soon as she decided to put on an act, not a lot of people could differentiate whether she was sincere or not. At the very least, Harry and Grayson could not tell, so they really thought that Rose was oblivious to this incident.

Wait, she didn’t know? Phew! If so, I can control this situation even better. With this in mind, Harry started to look around as the ploys he was devising almost manifested themselves from his gaze.184861

This made Rose and Mary look at each other and they noticed a visible disgust in their eyes. This old b*stard. He’s actually calculating how to trick us right in front of our eyes. How foolish.

Unknowing that his inner thoughts had been exposed by them, Harry was still secretly jumping for joy. Coughing lightly, he then stated, “That’s the rough story. I feel very sorry that this happened. I really didn’t think that my granddaughter would do such a thing.”

With a guilty expression, he looked as fake as he could get. This was a person that did not know how to act, for he showed how immature his skills were. Without even batting an eye at him, Rose grew impatient. “Why did she do that?”

Harry thought that Rose spoke in an upset manner due to what his granddaughter did. Not knowing that it was because of himself, he showed a guilty facade. “I also knew about this not long ago, hence my visit.”

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“So, why did she do that?” Rose slowly took a sip of her tea. “If my memory serves me right, your granddaughter isn’t acquainted with Sonny, no? Why did she frame her like that? What did she have to gain from it?”0

She acted as if she was unaware how Lynette felt about her grandson.

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Sighing, Harry replied, “Lynette indeed doesn’t know Miss Reed, but Toby was my student, so he and Lynette are considered childhood friends. As they are close enough to be considered siblings or niece and uncle, they always shared a close relationship. Even though she had been abroad all this time, she had been keeping close tabs on what was going on here.

After she knew that Toby had reconciled with Miss Reed, she became especially attentive. Since Toby was someone she cared about, she might have been too rash or misunderstood the situation. Either way, she thought that Miss Reed had let Toby down, so she had the media upload the article.”

“Does that mean that your granddaughter’s innocent? So, what you’re trying to say is that she did not plot against Sonny and she only wanted to help Toby, right?” Rose commented and closed her eyes.

With a bright gaze, Harry nodded profusely. “Yes, yes. It’s as you said. Miss Reed is somewhat considered to be a sister-in-law to Lynette. If so, why would she frame her, seeing that they don’t have bad blood or know each other? The real reason is that she only wanted to stand up for Toby.

She’s not a malicious person. She never thought that she would attract so much trouble for Miss Reed by uploading the article. After she calmed down, Lynette actually regretted her actions a lot. Yet, it was already too late when she wanted to apologize to Miss Reed, as she had already publicly stated she won’t forgive her on the internet.”

“If it were me, I wouldn’t forgive her either.” Rose scraped her cup gently against the coaster before commenting.

This made Harry freeze up. “Old Mrs. Fuller, you—”

“Are you finding it hard to understand why I’d say that? Why I would stand on Sonny’s side?” Rose looked at him.

Harry did not reply, for she had grasped his inner thoughts precisely.

Sneering, Rose continued, “Why should I forgive her? Regardless if the other party intended it or not, the damage is done. This is the fact. As a victim, why should I forgive the perpetrator? Just because she stood up for someone? If she wanted to stand up for Toby, why didn’t she take this to Toby instead of uploading it?

Her actions not only made Sonny become the target of everyone, it implicated Toby too, making him the butt of everyone’s joke. Her actions had hurt people, so why should Sonny forget and forgive her just because she apologized? Even an old woman like myself isn’t that magnanimous or forgivable. Sonny is very similar to me in this regard. So, I support her decision by choosing not to forgive Lynette.”

After hearing Rose’s words, Harry found the reality hard to swallow. “Even so, Lynette did it for Toby. Although she might have gone about it with the wrong method, she meant good.

Now, not only does Miss Reed not forgive nor accept an apology from her, Toby even blacklisted my family because of this. He didn’t even accept my call or a face-to-face talk, and I’m his teacher! I heard that he is going to cut all ties with my family. Isn’t this a bit overboard?”

Chapter 1122 Thoroughly Exposed

“Overboard?” As if she had heard something ridiculous, Rose slammed the table and sneered, “Mr. Lore, in your eyes, Toby and Sonny dealt with this a bit too seriously, didn’t they?”

“Is that not the case?” Harry was visibly upset now. “Yes, Lynette is in the wrong, but she didn’t mean it. Does Toby need to cut ties with my family just because of this? Isn’t it enough when we’ve apologized?”

“So, this is your stance on this situation.” Rose smirked. “In my opinion, I think they did the right thing. I don’t care if your granddaughter intended this or not, I only know that she did it without verifying the truth and concluded it one-sidedly. She was so sure that Sonny had betrayed Toby and uploaded the pictures. Her aim? To let Sonny suffer under the public’s criticism. Yet, have you ever thought about what would happen if Sonny was not tough enough to face the backlash?”

“I’m aware, Madam.” Mary peered at Harry coldly. “Miss Reed might suffer from mental breakdown and commit suicide. Since this happens often, the number of people who die because of cyberbullying is actually quite high.”

“That’s right.” Rose nodded. “That means that your granddaughter nearly killed Sonny. Toby loves her a lot. Since he nearly lost Sonny, what makes you think he won’t cut ties with you after the incident? Who told you to mess with the person he loves the most? This is why I’m in favor of their response.”

Harry was rendered speechless by their words.

After a while, he finally replied, “But this isn’t as serious as you make it out to be. Isn’t Miss Reed fine?”

“Sonny is fine, but that doesn’t mean that she should forgive your misdeeds.” Rose snorted.

Clenching his fist, Harry continued, “It is our fault. We are willing to apologize to Miss Reed. We are even willing to compensate her, but she… Sigh. She doesn’t want to let this go and keeps wanting to argue this. She even brought Toby into this. He wasn’t like this in the past.”

“What’s with the sudden comparison?” Rose’s expression darkened. “Are you implying that Toby was negatively influenced by Sonny?”

Harry quickly waved his hands. “Oh no, I didn’t mean that. What I meant was that the reason Toby wouldn’t forgive us was because of Miss Reed too. Perhaps, she doesn’t want him to forgive us. I know that you like Miss Reed very much, Old Mrs. Fuller, so I implore you to not get angry at what I’m about to say. Think about it. Toby is my student. Our families are very close with the public knowing that Toby respects me alot. If the masses knew that he cut all ties with my family just because of a few words from Miss Reed, how would they view him? Wouldn’t they think that Toby turned on his teacher just for a mere woman? This would harm his reputation.”

“Oh?” Rose lowered her gaze and smiled mysteriously. “What is your suggestion, then?”

Harry took a sip from the tea before continuing, “Old Mrs. Fuller, I don’t ask for much. I just request you to speak with Toby and persuade him as well as Miss Reed. Give Lynette and my family a chance to apologize. Bad blood shouldn’t have to be stirred up just because of this. This wouldn’t benefit either of our families. This is also my aim in coming here as I’m out of options as well. Toby wouldn’t accept our calls, much less see us. I only came here because I don’t know what else I can do. So, Old Mrs. Fuller—”

“So all in all, you came to me because you wanted me to act as a mediator, helping your family build a rapport with Toby and Sonny, right? Oh—what I meant was that you wanted me to order Toby and Sonny to forgive and reconcile with your family, am I right?” Rose interrupted and smiled at him curtly.

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Hearing that Rose had voiced out his genuine thoughts, Harry decided to get to the point and rubbed his palms together before saying, “Yes, this is what I meant. It’s not a major incident, since Lynette only did a bad thing out of good intentions. Lynette and the Lore Family are more than willing to apologize to Miss Reed and reimburse her as well. I think that Miss Reed shouldn’t have been so stubborn as to hold a grudge against us. After all, Lynette did it to protect Toby; she didn’t want him to be kept in the dark. As Toby’s woman, she should understand and even accept the compensation and apology my family is willing to give out. Otherwise, Miss Reed would just be making it hard for Toby, who’s stuck between all of this. It is quite unbecoming for her to be acting like this as his partner. Besides…”

Harry settled his tea down. “To summarize this, it’s just squabbles between the youngsters. An apology and compensation are supposed to be enough, but Miss Reed made it worse than it should. In the end, it caused our families’ relationship to sour. This shows how narrow-minded she is. She isn’t a tolerating person! If she does reconcile with Toby in the future, I don’t think she can contribute much to him. I think that she might even distant Toby from the families he shares a close relationship with. So, Old Mrs Fuller, I suggest you use this chance to lecture Miss Reed properly. Tell her to be more forgiving and not attract so much trouble for Toby. What do you think?”

His words were directly hinting at Sonia being a homewrecker. Undoubtedly, this caused Rose and Mary’s expression to darken.

Afraid that Rose might worsen her health due to anger, Mary patted her on the shoulder, hinting that she should calm down. Then, Marry stepped forward and smiled coldly at Harry.

“Mr. Lore, only snakes speak like you did. Don’t think that we can’t tell you’re purposefully making Miss Reed look bad in front of Old Mrs. Fuller. You just want to make her feel disdain toward Miss Reed and let her separate Young Master Toby and Miss Reed. You sure did plan ahead quite thoroughly. Too bad, Madam knows best what kind of person Miss Reed is like. So, don’t treat us as fools and assume we don’t see through you. We’ve seen countless people like you.”0

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“I’m not—”

“Enough.” Rose showed her palm to him, breaking off what Harry was about to say, for she had lost all patience at this point. “Mr. Lore, I’m not sure if you are stupid or foolish. You came with the intention of wanting me to be the mediator, to persuade Toby and Sonny to accept the apology of your family and save the relationship you share with him. Then, you should’ve praised Sonny in front of me instead of belittling her. After all, you already know that I like her a lot. If you had made me happy by praising her, I might even persuade them on your behalf. Yet, I didn’t think you’d be this dumb to cut your only option off like this.”0

“That’s right.” Mary, who saw that Rose wanted to get up, quickly bent over and helped her up. “Mr. Lore, do you think we’re clueless to what you’re trying to do? You’re just trying to belittle her to the point where Madam would separate her away from Young Master Toby! We know it all. We know that you’re using this awful tactic to help your granddaughter get married to him!”

Chapter 1123 Utter Foolishness

Her words changed Harry’s expression. After being chided by Rose, Grayson, who did not dare to open his mouth, became pale. Immediately, he looked at her with panic in his eyes. We’re finished. These two old women actually know how Lynette feels about Toby!

Although he was panicking, Harry was still someone that had lived a long and experienced life. As such, he quickly calmed down and clenched his fist before squeezing out a smile. “You jest, Mary. How can I have such thoughts?”

“Enough. Since we’ve reached this stage, it’s pointless to keep pretending. We’ve known what that granddaughter of yours feels about Young Master Toby for a long time now.

I mean, how can we not, seeing that your granddaughter practically glued her eyes to our young master everytime she sees him? Even the blind could tell.” Mary rolled her eyes discriminately. “Besides, you, Mr. Lore, are famous for doting on your granddaughter, as you will do your best to satisfy her wants and needs.

From this, anyone can tell that you’d naturally support your granddaughter when she loves Young Master Toby so much. Yet, since our young master and Miss Reed are together, you wanted to rile Madam up, using her to break them apart. If that happened, wouldn’t your granddaughter stand a chance to get what she wished for?”

Although the father and son duo tried to speak, they found themselves unable to rebuke her. They thought they merely hit the bullseye based on their guesses. Yet, they never predicted that they actually knew Lynette was in love with Toby for such a long time.

If so, that meant whatever he uttered in front of the ladies earlier was as ridiculous as one could be. Suddenly, Harry felt a sense of shame and regret as he thought he was acting too rash earlier.

It was just as what Rose had mentioned. Their aim in coming here was to persuade her so she could put in a few words on behalf of the Lore Family. The best tactic would be to successfully persuade Toby and Sonia.

What it also meant was that the more urgent ordeal would be to smooth over the issues with Toby first. As for breaking up Toby and Sonia, they were in no hurry to achieve that.

Yet, he could not help but smear Sonia when he was talking, thinking that if Rose could persuade Toby into breaking up with her, would that not be perfect? What he did not foresee, however, was that Sonia actually mattered a lot to Rose.

The more important thing was that Rose knew a long time ago that Lynette fancied Toby, so not only did his words expose his intentions, he also left a very bad impression on Rose.

I really f*cked up this time.

Just as Harry was regretting his actions, Rose took the cane handed over by Mary and said, “Also, did you really think that I didn’t know what happened online?”

What? Harry and Grayson fell into shock once again.

Subsequently, Harry met with the sneering gaze of Rose. “I only pretended to not know, as I wanted to hear what you were going to say, you old fool. What did I hear? You, twisting the truth. I know about the whole incident very well. Don’t think that I’m just some old woman staying in her home all day.

I have a very well-established information network. That granddaughter of yours was slandering Sonny online. She didn’t want to stand up for Toby.

It was because she fancied him and wanted Toby to break up with Sonny, so she framed her and made it seem like she cheated on him, all that just to be with Toby. And you, you old fool, you actually twisted it so it looks like she was trying to stand up for him. What a joke!”

“Not only is this ironic, he’s treating us as fools, Madam.” Mary helped Rose along while looking at Harry with a disdainful gaze.

With a pale and awful expression, Harry looked at them hopelessly. “You two knew, yet you pretended not to. Is it all just to see me make a fool out of myself?”

Rose sneered, “See you make a fool out of yourself? I’m not that bored. I only wanted to see if you were honest. If you had been sincere right from the start, I might still have valued you higher, seeing that you came in person to make amends.

But, you lied, and you even twisted the facts, treating us like fools. So, why should I care about what you think? Go back. I won’t agree to your request and persuade them to forgive you. I still have my conscience left.”

“That’s right.” Mary rolled her eyes. “Besides, not even bringing a gift along when requesting a favor? This is how you do things? I think taking advantage is more apt for what you’re doing. You all are just snakes in disguise. The granddaughter wants to be a mistress while the grandfather not only did not chide her, he even supported this mess, like some pimp trying to find rich customers for her.

What a disgusting family. We wish that the young master would quickly cut ties with your family. If we keep getting ourselves involved in your family’s matters, the young master might even be influenced negatively by you all sooner or later.”

“Y-You…” Harry stood up and pointed at Mary while trembling out of anger.

Mary then snorted. “Cat got your tongue? Servants, see our guests off!”

“Understood.” The servants standing by the entrance of the living room heard Mary’s order and walked over immediately before gesturing to the Lore Family to leave with them.

Naturally, Harry was not willing to leave just like that, but he also dared not stay there shamelessly.

After all, he still wanted to maintain the relationship with Toby and not push him away even further. Despite his reluctance, he could only leave with Grayson. Soon, only Mary and Rose were left in the living room.

Mary then smoothed out the wrinkles on Rose’s coat before stating unhappily, “These two thick-skinned scums finally left. Young Master Toby was also quite unfortunate to have found such a teacher.”

“It’s all because the teacher Toby was supposed to learn from passed away unexpectedly the day before it got officialized. Left with no choice, we could only ask if that old man wanted to teach him. If not for the company’s urgency for Toby to succeed in the position hurriedly, how could that old fool get the position if Toby had more time for other options?” said Rose while wearing her coat.

Mary helped her along to the entrance of the living room. “No matter what, the young master is still somewhat indebted to that old man. Still, after so many years of Young Master Toby shielding the Lore Family, he has repaid his debts. It’s also a good thing to cut ties following this incident.”

“It is. We have his granddaughter to thank for this,” Rose remarked.

Laughing, Mary added, “True, but Miss Reed has indeed suffered through this.”

“Prepare some gifts and send them to Sonny tomorrow. Tell her to not think too much into this and say that the granddaughter of Harry’s has nothing to do with Toby, that they aren’t close at all,” Rose ordered.

Nodding, Mary replied, “Understood. I will prepare them, but I don’t think that Miss Reed will worry herself too much over this, since I’m sure that the young master would have explained everything to her.”

“It’s up to Toby how he resolves that issue. As her senior, we should show our support as well to boost Sonny’s confidence in that he did not lie to her.”

“That makes sense. I’ll send someone over with the gifts tomorrow morning.”

“Good,” Rose affirmed.

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Chapter 1124 A Call From Mary

As the two elderly chatted while walking, they soon reached the room hand-in-hand. At this time, Rose was already tired to the point where she did not require reading a book to ease her to sleep.

After Mary helped her back to the room, she laid her down on the bed. In the end, Rose fell asleep in less than two minutes. Seeing how she was asleep made Mary smile as she covered the blanket for her and left.

Exiting the room, Mary closed the door before taking her phone out. She then turned around to look at the shut door with a hesitant expression. Obviously, she was in a dilemma.

Yet after a few seconds, the hesitation on her face disappeared, for it was replaced with determination. Although Rose had mentioned earlier to refrain from telling Toby about the Lore Family’ visit, Mary thought that it would be best to inform him still.

Otherwise, she was worried that Toby might be even more uneasy if he knew about it in the future.

Thinking of this, Mary heaved out a breath before phoning Toby.

On the other hand, Toby had just reached home from disposing of the garbage when he heard his phone ring in the direction of the living room.

He set his shoes aside before walking toward it as the ringtone became gradually louder.

Hearing the footsteps, Sonia put the remote down and looked over. “You’re back.”

Toby affirmed in response, “I’m back.”

Glancing at the ringing phone, Sonia picked it up as he walked over after which she handed it to him. “It’s from Madam Mary.”

“Mary?” Toby frowned as he retrieved the phone. It really was Mary calling him.

Subsequently, Sonia shifted aside to nudge a space for Toby, who then sat down.

The moment he did, she felt that the couch was sinking down a lot.

Nah, this is probably normal with his weight.

“You should answer that quickly. Perhaps something has happened with Grandma, seeing that Madam Mary is calling you at this hour.” Sonia, who saw that Toby was staring at the phone, nudged him in hopes for him to snap back to his senses.

After regaining his composure, the man looked at Sonia before swiping his finger across the screen to answer the call. “Mary?”

Instead of placing the phone by his ear, Toby opened the speaker option and held the phone in his hand.

By doing so, Sonia could hear their conversation as well.

“Young Master Toby, I hope that I’m not disturbing you and the young mistress’ rest by calling so late.” Mary’s gentle voice came from the speaker.

Before he could say anything, Sonia closed in and said, “Good evening, Madam Mary.”

“Good evening, Miss Reed.” Mary smiled upon hearing Sonia’s voice.

Although Sonia could not physically see her, she could tell from her voice that she was surprised to hear her.

“Miss Reed, I’m not interrupting your rest, am I?” Mary asked again.

Shaking her head, Sonia replied, “Of course not. Toby and I had just finished dinner. We’re watching TV in the living room right now. We’re nightowls, so you’re not disturbing us.”

“That’s good to know.” Mary nodded.

Toby then hugged Sonia’s waist while asking, “Mary, is something wrong with Grandma? Why did you call at this hour?”

With a rushed tone, he was clearly projecting his worries.

Sonia held his hand with a similarly worried expression.

Obviously, she had the same thought as Toby, thinking that something might have happened to Rose.

On the phone, Mary, quickly shook her head upon hearing Toby’s question. “No, no. The madam’s health has been alright. I’m calling because of something else.”

As soon as they heard that Rose was fine, both Toby and Sonia breathed a sigh of relief at the same time.

At the same time, he could feel her somewhat stiff body loosening up as well.

“That’s good to know. Then, what made you call, Mary?” Toby’s hand, which was on Sonia’s waist, started to move around.

Perhaps he knew that his grandmother was fine now, so he was in a good mood instead.

Seeing how the hand was touching her all over her back, Sonia slapped it in annoyance. Yet, her slap was completely ineffective.

Not only did she fail to remove his hand, it only made Toby gripped onto her tighter.

Had she not been worried that Mary might overhear them, Sonia would have bitten the man’s arm at this point.

Seeing how hard the woman was fighting with his hand made Toby smile.

She looked just like a cat that met a ball of yarn, which wrapped tightly around her, rendering her unable to move or escape from it. Still, the cat did not want to concede as it started to fight against the ball of yarn.

Just like the cat, Sonia was trying her hardest to fight with his hand.

While talking on the phone, Toby was teasing Sonia and smiling brightly.

Mary did not know what they were doing, as they did this all in silence.

Plus, her attention was on Rose right then, so she was not in the mood to think about other matters.

Sighing, she replied, “It’s because the Lore Family came by earlier, Young Master Toby.”

“What?” As soon as he heard that, Toby stopped playing with Sonia.

Even Sonia, who was fighting with his hand, did not care about that as she quickly gazed at the phone. “The Lore Family went to Grandma?”

“Yes.” Mary nodded.

Toby’s expression instantly darkened. “Who went?”

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Not planning to hide anything, Mary answered, “Two people came. Your mentor, Harry, and his son, Grayson.”

Sonia patted the back of his hand upon seeing how grim his expression was, hinting at him to calm down before she asked, “Madam Mary, what’s their purpose of visiting? Is it because of what happened this morning?”

She did not think that Rose would not know about what happened online, since this involved both Toby and herself.

Still, even if Rose did not monitor what happened online, the servants who were active on social media would have told her about the incident.

This was why she did not ask whether Mary was aware about what happened… because she knew that they did.0

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As expected, Mary’s reply confirmed Sonia’s thoughts.

“Yes. It was because of that.” Mary nodded profusely. “Now that the Lore Family knew that Young Master Toby was really angry and wanted to cut ties with them, plus the fact that they could not contact him, they thought about confronting the madam. They hoped to persuade the madam into talking with Young Master Toby to let you two forgive them.”0

“So, I see.” Sonia, who understood the process, turned to look at the man beside him.

The man had an even more awful expression as bloodlust seeped from his body.

Obviously, he was very upset at the Lore Family’ actions of disturbing his grandmother.

“Madam Mary, the Lore Family didn’t bully her, did they?” Sonia quickly asked.

Her words made Toby stare at the phone.

Although he knew that his own grandmother would never be pushed around, he was still worried in case the Lore Family agitated her with their words.

“They did!” Mary replied coldly after hearing Sonia’s question.

Surprised, Sonia stood up and answered shrilly, “What? They bullied Grandma?”

Chapter 1125 Don’t You Want to Be Mrs. Fuller?

Toby tightened his grip on the phone. If not for the phone being sturdy enough, he might have crushed it!

The Lore Family dared to push Grandma around in her own home? Seems like I’ve been too lenient toward them to the point where they don’t even respect Grandma anymore.

Although Mary did not know what Toby was thinking, she knew that he was exasperated.

“Exactly, Miss Reed. They came to the manor and tried to use Madam to achieve their goals. Now, isn’t that just bullying Madam?” Mary stated angrily.

At this point, Toby finally piped up coldly, “What happened, Mary? Tell me everything that happened when the Lore Family met with Grandma.”

“Okay, Young Master Toby.” Mary nodded before telling them truthfully what transpired when the Lore Family came.

She did not add or twist anything as she retold everything as it was. After all, she was not one who would exaggerate the truth.

Also, what the Lore Family said to Rose was awful enough, so she did not have to emphasize anything to make Toby learn the truth, that they were truly despicable.

After hearing Mary’s words, both Toby and Sonia fell silent. They had never thought that the Lore Family would be this shameless to the point of using Rose as the mediator to smooth things over between them.

Besides, not only did they not tell the truth when seeking help, they even twisted the facts! Time and again, they slandered Sonia in front of Rose.

All of these things accumulated served to make them feel more hatred toward the Lore Family.

“I understand. Just ignore the Lore Family for now, Mary. If they come again, don’t bother to meet them. I’ll handle things from now on,” stated Toby with a dangerous gaze.

Mary nodded. “Okay, Young Master Toby. Don’t worry. We know what to do.”

“Hm. How’s Grandma?” asked Toby.

“Madam is fine. Even though the Lore Family acted and spoke shamelessly, I was there with her the whole time, so I rebuked them all the way on behalf of the madam. She was not agitated by them. She’s asleep now,” comforted Mary while looking at the closed door behind her.

It was then Toby and Sonia truly relaxed.

“It’s good that Grandma is fine.” Sonia patted her chest. “Fortunately, you were there, Madam Mary. Otherwise, it would have been huge if Grandma was agitated by them.”

Toby could not deny that.

She’s right. With Grandma’s current condition, she cannot take any form of emotional triggers. Otherwise, she might pass away on the spot.184865

Thinking how the Lore Family nearly cost Rose her life tonight, Toby found himself despising them even more as the thought of cutting ties with them became even more solidified.

“Young Master Toby and Miss Reed, since the Lore Family did not get what they wanted from this visit, they will not give up just like that. They will find another way to resolve the rift between you, Young Master Toby. After all, without your protection, the Lore Family will disappear from the upper echelons of society sooner or later, so you need to watch out for that. They will stir something up for sure,” Mary advised them.

Both of them nodded.

“Don’t worry, Madam Mary. We’ll be on the lookout,” stated Sonia.

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Although Toby kept quiet, Mary knew that he agreed with Sonia’s thoughts.0

“Good. Good.” Mary relaxed.

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The trio then chatted about other things before ending the call.

Yet, Toby still wore a fairly grim expression.

Pouring a cup of water for him, Sonia asked, “Are you still worried about Grandma?”

Toby took over the cup. “No. I’m just feeling guilty.”

“Guilty?” Sonia blinked, not understanding what the man meant.

Toby explained, “I always thought that since the Lore Family are the family of my mentor, I should help them out as I had the ability to do so. Plus, with them being financially unstable, it wasn’t that hard for me to help them along, since it would not bring much trouble for me either. So, whatever projects or collaborations they needed, I almost never rejected them. Plus, during the first few years they started out, the Lore Family did act in line as they didn’t use my name to do anything. That was why I happily put them under my wing to grow. Also, the corporation became bigger years later, so I became busier. In the long run, I didn’t keep up with how they were doing.”

“This is why the Lore Family are more blatantly arrogant with you not keeping them in check. They started to think of themselves as above all people! In the end, Harry doesn’t even respect Grandma anymore, since he called her ‘Rosy’,” Sonia sneered.

Of course, she did not take a jab at Toby. Rather, it was directed at the Lore Family.

Most people knew that even amongst the elderly, Rose was the eldest. Yet, Harry actually called her ‘Rosy’. If this was not considered disrespectful, then what was?

The people who were unaware might think that Harry was Toby’s grandfather and that Rose was just somebody.

“That’s right. The wrongfulness that Grandma suffered through was because of me.” Toby rubbed his eyebrows.

Hugging his arm, Sonia placed her head on his shoulder. “Although you caused it, it wasn’t like you did it on purpose, did you? After all, who could predict the future? Nobody can fully grasp a human’s true nature. So, you don’t need to feel so guilty. I believe that Grandma won’t blame you either. If you really can’t get over this, then we can pay a visit to the old manor tomorrow and eat with Grandma before apologizing to her. How does that sound?”

After hearing this, Toby stopped rubbing his tightened eyebrows as he carried Sonia and placed her on his leg.

This frightened the woman, who subconsciously held onto his neck.

Following that, she hit the man playfully. “What are you doing? You scared me.”

Toby laughed in a low tone while touching her forehead. “Nothing. I’m just happy. That’s why I couldn’t resist hugging you.”

“What’s there to be happy about?” Sonia lay in his embrace.

The man touched her hair. “I’m happy that you’re willing to visit Grandma to apologize to her with me. Although I caused this myself, I’m happy that you’d want to share this burden with me.”

Hearing this, Sonia let out a smile. “Didn’t you say that we’re in this together? So naturally, whatever happens, we’ll face it together. If it were me, I don’t think you’ll let me face it alone, right?”

Toby placed his jaw on top of her head, finding her quite right.

“See. You can’t say no to that, so why wouldn’t I accompany you?” Sonia hugged the man by his waist and closed her eyes. “Besides, if Grandma really got angry, I don’t think she would forgive you if you went alone. With me by your side, Grandma might forgive you on account of me being there. I’m also doing this for you.”

He laughed subtly. “I’ll have to thank you then, Mrs. Fuller.”

Blushing, Sonia rebuked, “What do you mean? Don’t spout nonsense.”

He lifted her chin while gazing deeply into her eyes. “Hm? Am I? Don’t you want to be Mrs. Fuller?”

“I…” Sonia found her answer stuck in her throat.

Naturally, she wanted to say no, but she knew that the man would be angry.

Yet, she found it embarrassing to say that she wanted to. I don’t wanna sound desperate to be his wife… Ugh. I’m on the fence!

Seeing how the woman was silent, Toby knew what she was thinking of.

Although he was happy that she did not deny this outright, he was also upset at her silence and embarrassment…

Yes, she might be gorgeous with an embarrassed expression, but there were times when embarrassment would cause a headache—like now.

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Chapter 1126 Having Second Thoughts

Toby knew Sonia was also willing to be his wife, but it was because of her shyness that she couldn’t say it out loud.

Heavens knew how he wished she could be braver and audaciously tell him she wanted and was willing to be his Mrs. Fuller. However, he knew it was impossible for the time being, at least, for she would be bashful very easily.

It seemed that he would have to do better and polish her more, see that her bashfulness would be alleviated. With the thought in mind, he narrowed his eyes and caressed her lips flirtatiously.

A ticklish Sonia reflexively moved her head back only to have her head secured by Toby’s other hand. He had foreseen it, so he let go of her waist the second her head moved, stopping her from retreating.

“What—” Sonia looked at the man with wide eyes, and just as she wanted to question the man’s actions, she found the burning passion deep beneath his eyes.

Shoot! Her heart skipped a beat that second. This dude isn’t going to do what I think he wants to do, is he?!

Sonia stiffened for a moment and wanted to leave Toby’s lap the second she came to herself, or this man would surely not spare her.

To her dismay, Toby narrowed his eyes the second she shifted her body as he leaned forward to pin her down on the couch.

The corner of her lips twitched the moment she found herself immobile, sandwiched between the man and the couch. She knew she was a step too late and failed to escape. Perhaps, he had already noticed the second she thought about running away.

Thus, he pinned her down on the couch the second she moved and severed her thoughts about leaving entirely.

“T-Toby, can you let go of me first?” Sonia’s bent arms were pressed against Toby’s chest.

Knowing she wouldn’t be able to escape by force, she decided to do things the easy way—talking.

Hey, who knows? He might actually let me go—though the chances are slim, it’s worth the shot, no?

“Why should I?” Sure enough, he refused her request the next second.

He finally had her where he wanted, and she’d run away the second he let go. So, only an idiot would agree to her request. As much as she had expected the answer from him, she didn’t feel defeated either.

She took a quick look around before smiling at Toby. “Then, maybe you can get up a little? You’re really pressing down on me; I’ll have a little difficulty breathing.”

She had decided to shove him away and make a run for it the second he moved, with no hesitation whatsoever. However, poor Sonia didn’t know she was an open book. Her thoughts were written evidently on her face, amusing Toby.

“Don’t bother. I’ll guide you when to breathe. So no need to get up.” With that, the man put one arm around her waist and lifted her up, causing their bodies to press against each other even more.

Instantly, her face flushed crimson, for she was lying when she said she couldn’t breathe. But now, it was real.

Sonia suddenly thought she had shot herself in the foot, and her smile had even stiffened further.

With that, she took a deep breath and looked at the man. “As if I need you to guide me. You—”

“You’re not having second thoughts, are you?” Toby interrupted her before she could finish her words.

“Sorry?” Sonia was rendered stumped, causing Toby to narrow his eyes. “Don’t remember?”

She shook her head reflexively. “Why don’t you just tell it straight to me and not beat around the bushes?”

At that, he caressed her face as he said, “Alright, I’ll tell it straight to you. You said we’d talk about this after the meal when we were eating, and now, it’s after the meal. That’s why I’m asking if you’re having second thoughts when you want me to get up.”

Sonia choked right at that, and she fell stupefied as well, clearly having forgotten about it.

“Just say it if you’re having second thoughts because I won’t blame you. This isn’t your first time anyway,” he declared as his gaze dimmed, seeing how despondent she looked. At that, he drooped his eyelids, looking disappointed and aggrieved.

Seeing how b*tchy he was behaving, Sonia hit the roof. “Toby Fuller, can you speak normally?! Who did you learn that b*tchy attitude from?! Also, when did I say I’m having second thoughts?! What do you mean by ‘not my first time having second thoughts’?! When have I ever gone back on my words?! How come I don’t know that?! When have I never fulfilled whatever I promised you?! Don’t you dare slander me!”

Either way, she hated how the man accused her and made her sound like she had never fulfilled her promises.

A glimmer flashed across Toby’s eyes as he looked at angry Sonia, and he looked at her with surprise. “So, you’re not going back on your words?”

“Of course not.” Sonia puffed up her chest and snorted with displeasure. “I never said I’m having second thoughts. You’re the one who jumped to conclusions.”

“That’s on me. I thought you didn’t want to.” He looked at her with amusement in his eyes.

Sonia was first stumped when she saw his smile and the ridicule hidden deep beneath his eyes, then a revelation hit her, and she widened her eyes. “Toby Fuller, you tricked me!”

“How have I tricked you?” He blinked innocently, causing her to move her hand away from his chest and point angrily at the man, glaring. “Admit it! You’ve pushed and provoked me, giving me no chance to come up with excuses to run away.”

Toby sniggered in response, only making her angrier. “Laughing, are we? So you admit it. You’re unbelievable, Fuller!”

She made a move in displeasure and raised her leg to kick the man.

However, it was as though the man had eyes on the back of his head as he pinned her leg down with his the second she lifted her leg.

“It’s precisely I’m worried that you’ll go back on your words that deliberately I did so. Don’t get upset. Besides, you’ve long promised me this, no?” His gaze deepened as he looked at her.

Sonia couldn’t refute him as she had indeed promised him.

“That’s not my problem.” She glared at him. “I might not go back on my words if you hadn’t deliberately provoked me. But now that you have, I’ll show you what’s going back on my words.”

At that, she shoved the man, wanting to push him away. But would Toby be willing? Of course not. With just a little force, the strength Sonia exerted became useless.

No matter how hard she pushed, the man wouldn’t budge. It was like he was a wall.

Alas, after shoving him for some time, not only did he not move a bit, she was well spent and gasped as she slumped on the couch.

Seeing so, Toby chuckled again. “C’mon, give it up. I won’t let you go back on your words.”

With that, he tilted his head slightly and lowered it, causing Sonia to close her eyes reflexively, knowing he was going to kiss her.

She knew well that there was nothing she could do but lay flat and resign to fate when she couldn’t even budge.184867

Wasn’t there a saying where if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em?

After all, she wouldn’t be able to escape later in bed even if she managed to do so now, so why not just comply?

But lo and behold, the sound of the doorbell ringing came from the entryway just as Toby’s lips were about to touch Sonia’s.

“Someone’s at the door.” Sonia opened her eyes at once and pushed Toby away with ease. Who knew where she got the strength from? Perhaps the man was so focused on kissing her that he let his guard down.

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Chapter 1127 Go to Ibira

Resentment filled Toby as his back slammed against the couch. Of course, he wasn’t upset with Sonia but with the person who rang the doorbell when it was already this late at night.

Sonia, on the other hand, turned a blind eye to the man’s displeasure and hurriedly moved away from the couch. “Did you hear the doorbell just now?” she asked while fixing her disheveled hair and clothes.

Toby, too, was fixing his clothes at this point. Compared to her fluster, he couldn’t be any more composed.

Not even an unexpected visitor could make him lose his composure.

It wasn’t until he patted his sleeves and crossed his legs that he answered, “I heard it. It’s just a visitor. Why are you so panicked?”

Then, as he watched the woman, who stood up to fix her pants, he smirked and continued, “Besides, this is our home. As owners, we’re panicking when there’s a visitor. Those oblivious might think we’re doing something bad in someone else’s place.”

His words rendered Sonia stupefied, and she blinked dumbfoundedly.

Yeah, this is my place. Whatever Toby and I do here is justifiable, so why would I panic so badly just because there’s someone at the door?! Those oblivious might actually think we’ve come to someone else’s place to do bad things.

At that, Sonia slapped her forehead, ridiculed by her reaction. “I’ve reacted too dramatically, but hey, this is a reflex. After all, anyone would react like this when someone suddenly comes while they’re making out. No one wants anyone else to know they’re doing it, no?”

Toby chuckled in response.

“Alright, I’ll go and get the door.” Sonia tucked her hair behind her ear while walking toward the entryway.

“Together,” said Toby as he held her hand.

He’d like to see just who the hell decided to ruin his night by coming at this time.

I swear you better have serious business or… He narrowed his malicious eyes.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the door, the visitor couldn’t help shuddering and rubbing his arms, feeling inexplicably cold.

Just then, the door opened, and Sonia and Toby appeared.

“Good evening, President Fuller, Miss Reed,” greeted the visitor as he hurriedly put his arms down and stood straight when he saw the two.

“Tom?” Sonia was pretty surprised when she learned who was behind the door.

Toby, on the other hand, frowned. “What are you doing here?”

“I—” Tom had just answered when he saw his boss’ sub-zero countenance. “This better be serious, or you can pack up and head to Ibira to work tomorrow.”

“What?!” Tom couldn’t believe his ears, so dumbstruck that his glasses slipped to the tip of his nose.

What’s going on? What the heck?! What have I done? Why am I suddenly assigned to the Ibira expedition?

Tom looking completely stupefied and questioning all existence made Sonia purse her lips and burst into a snigger.

It was her snigger, too, that allowed Tom to come to himself. At that, he looked despondently at his boss, asking, “What have I done wrong, President? Why have you suddenly assigned me to the Ibira expedition?”

“Do you even need a reason for it? Drop your complaints and just do as you’re told.”

“But…”

“Alright, Toby, cut it out.” Sonia held Toby’ arm and giggled. “Don’t freak Tom out.”

She believed she knew why he would suddenly send Tom to Ibira. He must be mad at the poor assistant for suddenly interrupting him when they were just about to make out. Thus, he decided to get even with Tom, sending the poor guy to Ibira.

Oh, she knew full well just how petty this man could get. Amused, Sonia shook her head with a chuckle.

Meanwhile, Tom blinked with stupefaction. “Freak me out? What do you mean, Miss Reed? Are you guys playing some sort of game? Truth or dare? Is President Fuller doing this to me in a fit of anger because he lost?”

The assistant might as well just blatantly said his boss was a sore loser who would take his anger out on the innocent. But, of course, Toby got the implication, and he turned grim.

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Looks like I can really chuck this assistant away. It’s time I send him all the way to Ibira to prove his worth.

Sonia didn’t expect Tom to be this oblivious either or have such a wild imagination at that. To think he’d assume they were playing truth or dare.

Then again, she had to admit that he was pretty close to the right answer.

Though they weren’t playing truth or dare, and Toby didn’t lose either, what they were playing had indeed upset Toby and caused him to lash out at Tom.

“Fly straight to Ibira tomorrow morning at eight. You don’t have to pay for the ticket. It’s on the company,” ordered Toby with a wave of a hand.0

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“C’mon, President, you can’t do this!” Tom grew apprehensive. “You can’t take it out on me just because you lost a game. I’m innocent!”

Sonia, on the other hand, tried so hard to hold her laughter back that her shoulders were shaking. Ha, looks like the poor guy is convinced Toby wants to transfer him away because Toby lost a game.0

However, neither she nor Toby intended to clarify to him. After all, how could someone tell anyone else what they were doing so blatantly? So a misunderstanding it was then.

“Alright, Tom, relax. Toby is just messing with you. He’s not really transferring you over to Ibira.” Sonia reassured him with a smile, seeing how uneasy he was.

“Really, Miss Reed?” Tom’s eyes lit up immediately. “President Fuller really won’t transfer me to Ibira?!”

“Says who?” Toby bore into Tom icily, rendering the poor assistant stupefied once again.

Sonia rolled her eyes at that and slapped Toby’ arm in exasperation. “Alright, c’mon, cut it out. Stop scaring Tom. Where are you going to find another assistant that knows you so well on such short notice if you really send Tom to Ibira?”

Exactly! Tom nodded his head like a bobblehead.

Meanwhile, Toby pursed his lips as Sonia continued, “Besides, Tom didn’t do it on purpose.”

“He disrupted our moment.” Toby pointed to his assistant with a frown.

At that, Sonia shook her head helplessly. “So? It’s just a little later. If it makes you feel better, we’ll continue after Tom leaves.”

The next second, the coldness surrounding Toby disappeared instantly, replaced with joy and elation. Even an idiot could tell he was beside himself with joy right then.

As the two whispered while leaning close to each other, Tom couldn’t tell what the two had talked about. But judging from how happy his boss was after hearing Sonia’s words, he couldn’t help having admiration for her.

Man, you’ve got to hand it to Miss Reed. She can really turn an active grenade known as President Fuller into a sweet man with just a few words. Sure enough, everything has its vanquisher. If these two aren’t perfect examples, then I don’t know what else is.

“So? Still upset?” Sonia nudged Toby, oblivious to Tom’s sassing about her and Toby in his mind.

At that, Toby cleared his throat and said, “Not anymore.”

“In that case, don’t scare Tom anymore. What are you going to do if he’s terrified when he’s so committed to seeing to your affairs?” cajoled Sonia as she looked at Tom.

“You’re the best, Miss Reed.” Tom felt utterly grateful for her.

At that, Sonia smiled and said, “You’re too kind, Tom. Don’t worry. Your boss won’t send you to Ibira anymore.”

“Is that true, President?” Tom looked expectantly at Toby, hoping to get an answer from him.

Chapter 1128 Thank Tim

However, Toby flipped out when he saw Tom acting covertly delighted, and he snorted disdainfully. “No mercy for you if you dare ruin my night without advance notice.”

In other words, he would overlook this night, but if this happened again, Tom would be sent to Ibira for sure. Tom, of course, was over the moon because being sent to Ibira would be unpleasant.

“Got it, President. It will never h—”

He suddenly froze as a thought struck him. President Fuller said something about ruining his night, right? But how have I ruined it?

Combining the time and how Toby looked resentfully at him, it very quickly dawned on him just what exactly his boss meant. What else could a pair of adults do at such a late night apart from that?!

In other words, Toby hadn’t taken his anger out on him because Toby lost to Sonia in a game, but he had interrupted his boss’ fun time with her. That was why Toby was so livid with him and wanted to transfer him to Ibira.

It would be justifiable if it was truly the case.

At that, Tom smiled grimly. He didn’t think he would be as hapless as to so coincidentally show up just when they were making out.

Hell, no way would he have rung the doorbell if he had the slightest clue!

Sigh…

“Shoot. Why did you come over at this time, and why didn’t you call beforehand?” Toby questioned grimly.

To that, Tom scratched his head and explained, “I would’ve if I could, President. But I accidentally broke my phone on my way over. So I can only come over personally.”

While speaking, he pulled his destroyed phone out of his pocket, leading Toby to purse his lips upon seeing it. “Alright, what’s up?”184869

It was a no-brainer that it was something grave if Tom would deliberately show up at an ungodly hour instead of waiting until the morning.

“It’s something really important, but…” Tom suddenly looked over to Sonia as he left his words hanging.

Sonia quirked an eyebrow, then smiled, getting what he meant. “Okay, you guys go ahead. I’m going to go back inside because I happened to need to make a call as well.”

With that, she returned to the living room crisply. She wouldn’t get upset at all just because Tom wouldn’t let her listen to their conversation, as it wasn’t a big deal after all.

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Besides, even if she and Toby got back together, it didn’t mean that she could listen to their every conversation. As much as they were a couple, they were working in different companies.0

So, it was only right that she shouldn’t be present if the two were going to talk about trade secrets. Besides, she and Toby hadn’t remarried.

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Even if Toby didn’t mind, she couldn’t listen to their conversation without qualms. Thus, walking away would make things a lot easier for her.

Meanwhile, Tom looked at Toby after Sonia left. “President, Miss Reed wouldn’t be mad at me, would she?”

He had deliberately stayed away from the topic while she was present precisely because he didn’t want her to hear about it. Hence, he worried that Sonia would get upset over it.

Of course, he wouldn’t care if she was upset with him, but it would be troubling if she was upset with his boss. Hell, all of them at Fuller Group would be living in misery if their boss got upset!

Toby looked over his shoulder in the direction Sonia left, then shook his head slightly. “No, she isn’t petty like that. She respects other people’s privacy and secrets very much. So she wouldn’t overthink because of this. Just say it; just what’s up?”

“Well, in the afternoon, Connor Salzburg…”

While the two men talked business, Sonia pulled out her phone and made a call out in the living room. The call connected pretty quickly, and a crisp, weary male voice came the next second. “Are you not worried that Toby will get upset when you’re calling me at this hour when you’re supposed to be asleep?”

Embarrassed, Sonia rubbed her nose as she listened to his tease. “He’s talking business with his assistant right now, and he knows that I’m making a call.”

Well, he just doesn’t know who I’m calling.

“Right, I haven’t bothered you with this call, have I?” she asked. “You sound pretty tired. Have you not rested? Are you still at the hospital?”

On the other end of the line, Tim entered his office in green scrubs and walked straight to his desk after closing the door behind him. It wasn’t until he pulled the chair out, removed his glasses, and rubbed his temples that he answered, “No, you haven’t bothered me. You called at perfect timing. If you were to call any minute sooner, I wouldn’t have been able to answer it. I’ve just finished an operation, and now my work for the day is done. I’ll be heading back in a bit.”

“Well, I’m glad I’m not disturbing you.” Sonia took a sip of water from the cup on the coffee table.

Meanwhile, Tim put his glasses back on. “What about you then? Why are you calling me at this hour?”

“It’s nothing important. I just want to express my appreciation,” said Sonia with a smile as she put the cup back onto the table.

“Thank me?” Tim’s glasses reflected light.

“Yeah.” Sonia nodded. “I only found out this afternoon. I got a call from the police station when I went down asking me to make a trip there. I happened to see Anya in excruciating pain because of her legs. When I asked Officer Chase if they had taken her to the hospital, he said, of course, they did. But Dr. Lancaster said Anya would be fine after taking some pills. She didn’t need to be hospitalized. So I immediately figured you’re the doctor, and it’s not that she didn’t need to be treated. But you’ve deliberately said so because you’re standing up for me. Am I right, Dr. Lancaster?”

A hint of a smile flashed across Tim’s eyes as he listened and very quickly returned to his aloof self. “You’re right. I have done it on purpose. I happened to bump into them when the police took the woman over, so I did it.”

“I knew it.” Sonia chuckled. “Thanks, Dr. Lancaster.”

“There’s nothing to thank me for, so you didn’t have to call and thank me.” After a momentary rest, Tim put the call on speaker and placed his phone on the desk, making his way to the coat rack aside to put his jacket on.

When Sonia heard clothes rustling on the other end of the line, she knew he was getting ready to clock out. At that, she hurriedly said, “I should thank you. You stood up for me, after all. But it’s already late at night. I shouldn’t keep you on the line, or I’ll hold you back from going home. How about this? Why don’t you let me know when you’re available, and I’ll treat you to a meal? Speaking of which, I feel pretty bad that I haven’t treated you to a meal and given you a proper thanks when you’ve already helped me so many times.”

She lowered her head slightly and smiled apologetically.

On the other end of the line, Tim picked his phone up and walked out of his office after throwing his green scrubs into the disinfection cabinet. “I never really bother myself with people’s thanks. But if you insist on thanking me, that’s fine. Forget about food. You’ll only end up losing your appetite if you eat with me. I don’t like eating the normal stuff, and what I like might not be to your taste. Do you know what I like eating?”

“How would I know?” Sonia shook her head.

“What I like isn’t cooked with normal seasoning,” described Tim as he pressed the elevator button, “but cooked with edible chemical substances. So even if you want to treat me to a meal, you won’t be able to find the right restaurant for me.”

Food cooked with chemical substances?! Sonia shuddered just at the inchoate thought. That sounds absolutely scary.

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Chapter 1129 Get Him a Ticket

Are those things even edible? No doubt they taste bad. Either way, any sane person but him will stay far away from them surely. Sonia had to hand it to Tim.

“Have you… always been eating this way?” She couldn’t help wanting to sate her curiosity. “Yeah.” Tim didn’t deny it. “I’ve been eating like this since I started studying medicine.” Sonia gasped in response. “That’s ten-plus years. You’re really something!”

Tim chuckled lightly. “Everyone’s more or less peculiar in their own way. Using chemical substances in replace of seasoning happens to be a habit of mine.”

“Isn’t this Pica?” The corner of Sonia’s lips twitched. “You can put it that way,” said Tim as he pushed his glasses up. “But does it not damage your body for you to eat like this?” Sonia blinked, worried for the fellow doctor’s health. In any case, Tim often helped her out, so it was only fitting that she should worry about his well-being.

While walking into the elevator, Tim answered, “No. I’m a doctor, so I naturally know if these substances will do any damage to my body. Besides, these excipients are used to treat illnesses. It won’t harm the body apart from making the food taste weird. Just imagine it as the very first meal someone who has never cooked his whole life made, non-lethal, horrible tasting food.”

While relieved after hearing his description, Sonia couldn’t help chuckling as well. “Well, they don’t do your body any harm. But looks like I really can’t treat you to a meal, huh? Do you have any requests, then? I’ll do it as long as it’s within my capability.”

“You really want to thank me?” Tim reconfirmed.

“Of course.” Sonia nodded. “I’ve never thanked you when you helped me so many times, so I feel terrible if I don’t give you a proper thanks. Just let me repay you, please?”

She even clamped her phone against her shoulder while putting her hands together, pleading.

Though Tim couldn’t see her, he could somewhat visualize it. His glasses reflected light as he said, “Alright then. I won’t ask for much. I heard a new museum has opened in the country, but it’s different from normal museums. The displays are all post-war human specimens.”

“What?! Human specimens?!” Sonia gasped, stupefied. “Why is there such a museum?”

“Why not? Nearly every country has a museum like this. It’s to let people understand the cruelty of war. But barely any of them are disclosed or opened to the public. So only a small group will have heard about them.”

“I see.” Sonia nodded in revelation. “So are you telling me this because you want to visit but don’t have a ticket and want me to get you one?”

“That’s right.” Tim wasn’t surprised that she got it pretty quickly. She was a smart one, after all.

Ding! The elevator arrived.

While Tim walked out of the elevator and headed to his car in the parking lot, he explained, “I’ve visited quite a few similar museums. As you know, I’m a doctor, and I’ve always been very interested in the human body. Visiting these museums will allow me to see many ways bodies aren’t normally presented, and I can devise a surgery plan based on the wounds the bodies left at their death. So if I ever encounter similar patients, my surgery won’t fail and ruin my reputation because of my lack of experience.”

A couple drops of sweat rolled down Sonia’s temple as she fell speechless. Sure, it was really awe-inspiring to hear that from him, but to an average Joe, it still sounded somewhat psychotic.

“You’re not planning on visiting every single museum like this one, are you?” Sonia asked as she rubbed her temple.

“More or less.” Tim raised his chin. “After all, the displays in every museum are different, so naturally, every cause of death and wound presented on the bodies is unique. Hence, it’s only necessary that I visit all of them.”

“Touché.” Sonia nodded slightly as she held her chin. “You said earlier that these museums aren’t open to the public, so who are they open to?”

“Medical practitioners, military personnel, and politicians,” answered Tim as he unlocked his car.

At that, Sonia tilted her head with bafflement. “Since it’s open to medical practitioners, it should be a piece of cake for you to get a ticket when you’re so well-reputed in the medical community, no?”

“That being said, I’m quite busy lately, so I have no time at all to get one. By the time I remembered, the guys in the medical community had already booked it all, and the next available reservation was in two months. I don’t want to wait until then, so here’s where you come in and help me out. Of course, you might not have the network to get a ticket, but your guy definitely has. Just ask for his help.” Tim went into his car and started the engine while speaking.

Rendered both amused and frustrated, Sonia jested, “Looks like I really can’t say no when you’ve even thought of a way for me to get the ticket for you.”

“You can still turn me down. I won’t force you,” Tim said thoughtfully.

“Don’t.” Sonia waved her hand. “I said I wanted to repay you, so I won’t turn you down. I’ll talk to Toby about this.”

“Alright, I’ll wait for your good news then.” Tim had driven out of the hospital parking lot at this point.

After humming a response, she ended the call and put the phone down to stretch when she heard noises from aside.

She turned in that direction to find Toby had returned. At that, she looked up at him and asked, “You guys are done?”

Toby nodded in response.

Upon seeing that he looked amiss—glum and exuding grimness—she tucked her smile away. “What’s wrong? Is something up?”184871

Or why would he look so awful? He was completely fine when the two of them answered the door. So something must’ve happened for him to return like this.

However, he said nothing but only took a gander at Sonia, who was even more certain that something was up from that glance.

Apprehensive, she stood up and held his arm, leading him to sit on the couch. “C’mon, Toby, tell me. Just what exactly is going on? You’re making me worry. If it’s something major you have to deal with, then go ahead. Don’t delay it because you’re worried about me, understand?”

At that, she looked apprehensively at Toby, who pulled her into his arms, speaking in a husky voice, “It’s nothing major, just that something repulsive happened.”

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“What exactly is it then? Tell me.” Sonia broke free from his arms.0

However, Toby wouldn’t say a word but only stared at her.

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Livid and helpless, she entreated, “When are you going to stop acting mute whenever something’s up? You’re making me—Mm!”

Toby pulled her to him by the back of her head before she could finish her words and very accurately seized her lips, forcing her to swallow the rest of her words.

Sonia, on the other hand, was stupefied at first before coming to herself and rolling her eyes speechlessly.

I swear this b*stard… He’s so troubled and in a foul mood, yet it’s not enough to stop him from having sex. What can I say about him… Forget it; let him have his way. Who knows? He might finally say it after he’s sated and in a better mood.

With that thought in mind, Sonia went soft and wrapped her arms around his neck while shutting her eyes.

Chapter 1130 Tease Her

That night, Toby devoured Sonia like a ravenous beast. If it weren’t that her ability to withstand his manhandling was far better than before, she’d probably pass out from exhaustion like the other two times.

That said, she was still so spent from their night that she lay immobile in bed, so much so that she didn’t even want to lift a finger. She just looked at the warm chandelier on the ceiling with droopy eyes.

Toby, on the other hand, stood next to the bed and leisurely put on a dressing gown, looking all sated and beyond refreshed. Seeing so, Sonia turned her head away from him in anger, not wanting to look at him.

She had already begged for mercy so many times, and he would reply to her with ‘last one’ every time. But what happened in the end?!

Ptui! Men and their lies!

Of course, Toby saw how upset she was with him and knew precisely why, so after tying his dressing gown, he chuckled under his breath and coaxed, “Open your eyes. I’ll carry you into the shower.”

However, Sonia kept her eyes closed but raised her arms, waving them limply. “Carry me like this. I’m spent. I don’t want to move.”

This wasn’t his first time giving her a shower anyway, so she could very well accept letting him carry her into the bathroom after their night.

Seeing how lazy his girl was, he tapped her nose and said nothing more but carried her into the bathroom.

By the time they came out, it was already four in the wee hours, about two hours before the sun would rise. Toby lifted the covers and put Sonia back in bed before joining her.

Sonia was a little more conscious when her body touched the soft mattress, and she finally opened her eyes. That said, they were still only half open.

She blinked and looked at Toby, mumbling in a kittenish voice while yawning involuntarily, “What time is it?”

“Four o’clock.” Toby checked the time on his wristwatch.

At that, she shut her eyes again after hearing it was still so early. “There’s still a few hours until the sun rises, and here I thought it’s already morning when you’re wide awake.”

“No, go ahead and sleep.” As he tucked her in, she nuzzled in his arms. “Are you not going to sleep? There are still a few hours before we have to get up. Get some sleep. What if you get weary during work?”

“I’m not tired. You go ahead and sleep. I’ll watch over you.” Toby lay on his side with one hand propping his head up and the other patting her waist, coaxing her to sleep like she was a child.

Very quickly, drowsiness crept up to her following his gentle pats, and she couldn’t help yawning again.

“You really are a freak,” she mumbled.

“How am I a freak?” Toby quirked an eyebrow.

“Are you not?” Sonia grabbed his collars with both hands. Her eyes were still closed as she complained, “I’m so tired every time after hours of intimacy, and yet you’re alive and kicking. You’re not even sleepy. Tell me you’re not a freak that won’t get weary.”

Toby chuckled under his breath, “Well, I’m sure you like this freak very much. After all—”

Sonia stirred at once, having a good idea what the man was about to say next. The second she opened her eyes, she hurriedly covered his lips. “Shush! Not another word or I’ll bite you!”

She glared daggers at Toby, warning him, looking absolutely vicious. However, to a certain someone, instead of feeling intimidated, he thought she looked absolutely adorable, like an angry toddler.

At that, he stuck his tongue out and licked her palm. Tickled, Sonia withdrew her hand right away and shouted, “Toby Fuller!”

“Speaking.” He blinked innocently.

It was as though a bucket of water was doused on Sonia’s blazing anger when she saw how innocently he acted, making her feel super uncomfortable.

Alas, she could only bore into the man. However, her eyes turned dry and uncomfortable from all the glaring before she managed to do anything to him.

In the end, she raised a white flag and admitted defeat.

Forget it. Why fight this b*stard?! When have I ever defeated him?!

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A hint of a smile flashed across Toby’ eyes when he saw her mope, and he ruffled her soft hair. “Alright, I won’t tease you anymore. Go on, sleep.”

“Sleep?” Sonia rolled her eyes at him. “How can I go back to sleep after what you’ve done?!”

“Can’t sleep?” Toby narrowed his eyes.

Sonia hummed a response, still oblivious to the impending danger.

At that, Toby lifted the covers. “Since you can’t sleep, why don’t we continue till dawn?”0

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While speaking, he turned over, looking like he intended to pin her down.

Terrified, Sonia screeched, “I dare you, Toby! I’m going to get mad at you if you keep at this! I’m serious!”0

With that, she shut her eyes. However, nothing happened after a while.

So she opened her eyes tentatively to see the man’s stunning face and teasing smiling eyes.

It was only then a thought hit her, and she blushed. “You pranked me?!”

Toby sniggered. Duh?

At that, Sonia’s face flushed further, mortified, for Toby was just messing with her and didn’t really intend to have another go. But she thought he was serious about it…

So she felt absolutely mortified as she met this teasing gaze, wishing she could just bury herself up.

Ah! This is absolutely embarrassing!

Hence, she pulled the covers over and wrapped herself up from head to toe, shutting the outside world out. It was as though by doing so, she could ward off all animosity in the world.

Meanwhile, it instantly hit Toby that he had screwed up big time when his beloved had balled herself up beneath the covers.

Sigh, what to do? Coax her, then what else?

“Sonia, pull the covers down. You won’t be able to breathe.” He tugged on the covers while coaxing. However, Sonia held a death grip on it, giving the man a hard time pulling the covers away for a moment.

It stumped Toby for a second before coming to himself and continued tugging on it.

That said, he didn’t do it forcefully but deliberately played a tug-of-war with her as only by doing so he wouldn’t freak her out, or he wouldn’t be soothing her but asking for a fight.

“Sonia, baby, let go. I apologize, okay? That was on me. I shouldn’t have teased you. Don’t be mad at me anymore, please?” cooed Toby with all the patience in the world as he lowered his head to look at the young woman hidden beneath the covers.

Meanwhile, Sonia felt better, seeing that he apologized.

With that, she poked her head out, revealing a still-blushing face. “All you do is tease me.” She snorted while looking at him.

“No, I don’t. You’re just so cute that I can’t help myself.” He cradled her in his arms, where she remained still.

Great, I can forget about getting any sleep now, Sonia mused.

“Do that again, and I’ll really ignore you.” She looked up at him and gave him a warning punch.

“Never again.” Toby nuzzled his chin against the top of her head. “I was just messing with you. I really don’t intend to do anything.”