“When he dies.” Carl reached out and plucked a jasmine flower, twirling it in his fingers. “Even if my dear cousin is on his last breath, we can’t afford to be careless. The moment he dies, we move.”
Then, a thought crossed Carl's mind.
“Is there any word from Ivana?” he inquired.
“No.” Isolde shook her head slightly. “Recently, John left Cloud City, and we suspect Ivana went with him.”
She frowned slightly as she finished speaking.
“Ivana was never really one of us. Do you think she might betray us?”
A flicker of light passed through Carl's eyes, which then hardened with resolve.
“Find out where John went as soon as possible.”
John's sudden departure from Cloud City was indeed suspicious. Was there someone else out there who could save Diana?
...
Deep in the Forest
Nightfall had draped its inky blanket over the forest, casting an eerie silence.
In front of the Hag's cave lay a large clearing, where
"Yes, I have. Nothing serious," John replied, his voice softening slightly. "Thanks for all your hard work."Jacob, feeling a bit guilty, responded, "It’s no trouble... When do you think you’ll be back?""I can't say for certain, but we'll return as soon as possible," John said coolly. "Just get that song translated quickly.""Understood."…Jacob was efficient. Early the next morning, John received the file from Jacob. It contained the translated lyrics of the Hag's song:“Tonight, I wait in vain. Yesterday, you held me close. Now you’re gone, my love. Where are you now, my love? You said you'd be here tomorrow...”As he read the translation on his phone, John's brows furrowed, deep in thought. He scrolled down further, finding the song's origin and explanation.While he was engrossed in reading, there was a sudden commotion near the cave. John turned slightly to see the Hag, carrying a basket and wrapped in a headscarf, totte
But John didn't move.Instead, he stepped forward.“For my wife, I’m willing to give up everything, but that doesn’t mean I’ll make a foolish sacrifice.”His voice was calm and steady. “Just because you were betrayed, you think all men are liars and all love is fake. You hide in this dark cave, but what are you really running from?”A flicker of surprise passed through the Hag's eyes.“I don't know what you're talking about!”John didn't reply.He continued to slowly advance towards her. “Everything I’ve told you is true. For my wife, I’d give up everything, including my life.”He stopped right in front of her, his eyes full of emotion, radiating an irresistible presence.His piercing, unyielding gaze made the Hag freeze for a moment.His eyes were sharp, firm, and fearless.“As long as I see my wife safe with my own eyes, you can take my life if you want it.”The Hag's face darkened.“Why sho
Inside the cave.The Hag sat listlessly next to a tattered bronze mirror, her gnarled face reflected in its tarnished surface. Her lips trembled as she stared at the grotesque image before her. With a sudden snap, she slapped the mirror down onto the table, as if to suppress the painful memories it evoked.Every glance at her own face reminded her of the deep betrayal she had suffered.Her lover, Poma, had betrayed her.She remembered how her father had disapproved of their relationship. She had threatened to end her own life, leaving her father with no choice but to relent. On their wedding day, her father gave her a pot of flowers, saying that this "Heart's Desire" could test a person’s true feelings. He wanted Poma to water it with his own blood to prove his sincerity.But she couldn’t bear to see her beloved hurt. She trusted the sweet promises he made, so much so that she taught him the long-lost secrets of voodoo medicine herself.And
Xavier was furious: ... Like I want to beg you, you jerk!In reality, they didn’t have any kind of romantic relationship at all!Xavier screamed internally, but the more anxious he got, the worse his stuttering became, and he couldn’t manage a single coherent sentence.Just when he felt like he was about to explode and punch this infuriating guy, John spoke up.He cast a glance at Mitbahl. “What are you doing here?”“Uh, I was worried little Thomas might wet the bed, so I brought him out to go to the bathroom. I didn’t expect to overhear your conversation with... with Xavier.”Xavier looked at him.Wow, he sure changed his tune fast.For some reason, seeing Mitbahl's quick change in attitude left him feeling...a bit unsettled.Mitbahl blinked and stared at the thing in John's hand, exclaiming in surprise.“Boss, is that a... a pebble in that 'Heart's Desire' flowerpot!?”He frowned deeply.“I
Diana’s tone shifted as she cleared her throat.“Since Doctor Myers said the baby is fully developed and can come out now, do you think I should choose a good day and have him come out early?”“No.”John’s refusal was immediate.He knew what she was thinking.She was worried—worried she might not make it to the day of delivery.She wanted to ensure the baby was safe first.But that wasn’t an option.Her health was already fragile, and a premature delivery could be dangerous.“Just five more days.”John’s voice crackled through a burst of static.The signal on his end seemed to be deteriorating.Diana asked, “What’s in five days? Are you coming back?”“Yes… I’m coming back… and you just…”More static followed, and the call dropped.Diana tried calling back a few times, but the signal was completely gone.She sighed softly.It seemed the rain had indeed affected the s
“Being turned into a Voodoo Lwa by your own father, not much of a future left for you. Don’t you hate him?”Ivana slowly pressed the candy into the Hag’s hand, her expression calm. “Of course I hate him... But now they’re all dead. What’s the point of holding onto that hate forever? Besides, I’ve realized that life isn’t just filled with bitterness; it can be sweet too.”Ivana squinted her eyes, thinking of Jacob, a soft, tender look overtaking her gaze.The Hag let out a cold, dismissive snort.“You’re running out of time yourself, and yet you’re still so optimistic.”Ivana hesitated, lowering her head without a word. She knew all too well that as a Voodoo Lwa, her days were numbered.“Take this.”A sudden cold voice broke the silence. Ivana turned to see the Hag holding a small vial out to her.“What’s this?” Ivana asked, a note of surprise in her voice.“Take one pill a day,” the Hag said, her face remaining stony and
The Hag's once-clouded eyes were now shining with disbelief.“It’s blooming… do you see that… am I dreaming?!”John lowered his gaze.He spoke softly.“Yes, I see it.”In the center of the dark soil, a small green shoot had emerged.It was like a faint light in the endless darkness, symbolizing a glimmer of hope.The Hag held the flower pot, muttering to herself.“How is this possible… Is there really true love in the world? How could this flower bloom…”“I... I’ve waited a hundred years, a hundred years…”She seemed almost delirious, rambling incoherently.Jackson stepped forward, his face lighting up with joy.“Now that the Heart’s Desire has bloomed, does that mean you'll keep your promise and come down the mountain with us to save those people?”The Hag seemed not to hear him. She cradled the flower, mumbling incoherently to herself. Suddenly, to everyone’s surprise, two tears slid down he
Carl’s eyes glinted, and he snapped the laptop shut with a decisive click. A cold smile spread across his face. "I knew it... She couldn’t stay loyal for long."Lowering his head, a dangerous light flickered in his eyes. "Betraying me has dire consequences."Doom asked, "Boss, what’s the plan?""She’s just a pawn. Her life was in my hands from the start. If she won’t obey, there’s no point in keeping her around." Carl glanced at Doom. "You know where the male Voodoo insect is. Kill her."...After narrowly escaping the mudslide, John and his team found themselves safe and sound. The torrential rain that had plagued them suddenly ceased, and the sky cleared, revealing a bright rainbow. It seemed like a sign that things were finally looking up.They started their descent down the mountain. Ivana, soaked from the rain, was feeling a bit under the weather, so Mitbahl carried her on his back. Despite her cold and dizziness, Ivana was in high spir
At another table, Frank sat staring at Liam in his smart suit, his brow slightly furrowed."Hey, been causing trouble lately?"Liam rolled his eyes, displeased. "No.""What's with the haircut then? Going for the military look?""My mom made me." Liam sipped his champagne. "She thought my old hairstyle looked too thug-like for Uncle John's wedding, so she took matters into her own hands.""No worries, I think this look suits you."Beside him, Rose tilted her head, looking at him with adoration."You know what? I think any look suits you, I just really like you.""Cough~"Liam choked a bit.He cleared his throat, "Don't say such things in front of everyone.""Sure, sorry~" Rose nodded obediently.Frank thought to himself, Damn. Even my bro's nephew is showing off in front of me? Can't let this slide!He turned to Jenny with a mischievous grin."Jenny, do you think my hairstyle looks good
Upon arriving, she put her hands on her hips, adopting an accusatory posture."Look at this, I left for just a moment, and you're already being targeted by women. How can I ever feel safe letting you go out?"John's deep gaze slightly lowered. "And you?"Diana looked down at the Red Rose in her hand, feeling a bit guilty."Uh..." She reached out and presented the rose to John: "It's for you."John remained silent.Instead, the little baby in his arms stretched out a hand, grabbed the Red Rose, and then happily held it in her arms.Diana chuckled, pinching the little baby's soft cheek."Oh, our Tiger likes flowers~"The little baby stretched out her short arms toward Kevin, earnestly offering him the flower.The little baby handed the flower to him!Diana was astonished."My goodness, Tiger, you can't even speak and you're already trying to win over little boys?!"Truly her daughter!Kev
Kevin pulled on his turtle shell bag strap, seriously said: "I really have to go now, remember, my name is Kevin Nelson."Saying that, he turned his head and was ready to leave."Wait a moment."Kevin stopped in his tracks, turned his head, looked at him with a complex gaze.What...Did his brother remember something, or was he reluctant to part with him?Yosef picked up a Red Rose beside him."This, take it."Kevin was somewhat surprised: "Give it to me? But I'm a man, why would you give me a rose?""It's not for you."Yosef handed the flower to him, glanced at the distant girl, and said: "It's for her."Kevin: "...I just told you, my sister has a husband and a child, are you still not giving up?"Kevin thought: Oh, no! My brother may falls again in the same place after losing his memory!"What are you talking about." Yosef interrupted his thoughts: "I didn't think about pursuing her."
Kevin let himself be led by Yosef's hand, and they both sat on the swing in front of the flower shop.Once seated, the little kid beside Yosef didn't make a sound.He wore a bowl cut hairstyle, carried a big turtle shell backpack, and lowered his head, lost in thought.Yosef occasionally glanced over at him.After a while, he couldn't remind silence any more."You..."Hearing his voice, Kevin immediately turned his head, his eyes sparkling as he looked at him.Full of anticipation.Yosef slowly opened his mouth: "This outfit... who bought it for you?""My brother, what about it?""To be honest, your brother's taste isn't great." Looking at the little one's green onesie, Yosef slightly frowned, "Ugly."Kevin: ……This outfit was something Kevin had insisted on buying for his fifth birthday.He also bought a larger size for Yosef, as matching brother outfits.Although Yosef never wore it,
Hearing this, Kevin covered his mouth: "You mean... my brother's mind is damaged?"Godber corrected: "This is called mental issues.""Isn't that the same thing?"Godber: ...It seems so.Diana frowned. "Yosef lost his memory? With so many enemies, your situation should be unfavorable now, right?"Godber: "Mr. Nelson had already anticipated this. Before completely losing his memory, he divided the remaining power of the Nelson family into three parts, assigning them to the other three members of the Nelson family to keep each other in check, while he decided to retire due to health reasons."Kirin nodded. "So, currently, apart from us and Patrick, no one else in the Nelson family knows Mr. Nelson has lost his memory, thinking he's stepping down due to health reasons."Kevin asked: "Then where is my brother now?"Kirin glanced at Diana and John beside him, hesitating whether to speak.But then he heard John calmly say: "Gri
John's voice had a lazy, sexy edge."Sleep a bit more.""...Okay."Diana turned over, adjusting to a comfortable position, leaning into his embrace.Just as she was about to drift off, she felt the hand on her waist start to move along her curves.Wherever it touched, it ignited sparks.Diana's eyes flew open, and she turned her head.Behind her, John still had his eyes closed, his expression as calm as if he were asleep.But the hand under the covers was very much awake.This beast.Diana turned around and bit his Adam's apple.John frowned slightly, then opened his eyes.His deep gaze locked onto the girl in his arms.As if capturing prey, with a wild possessiveness.Diana knew that look well.It was the same look he gave her last night.She squinted. "Again?"His response was another wave of kisses....Diana became an overnight sensation without an
Reeves turned back and glared at Morse.Wanting to say something to retort against this guy.But he found... There was nothing to say...He looked at the cold and noble man beside Diana and felt an extremely complex mix of emotions.From the moment this man appeared, he knew he had lost.Lost utterly.John slightly lifted his eyes and swept them over Reeves holding roses.Facing the man's icy and profound gaze, Reeves felt somewhat nervous.Just as he thought John would question him, he saw John casually withdraw his gaze and look at the girl beside him."Do you like it?"Reeves: ... This man actually completely ignored me!Being ignored hurt Reeves' pride even more than being questioned!It meant that this man simply didn't regard Reeves as a threat!Unable to help himself, Reeves said."Are you Miss Thompson's fiancé?"Hearing this, Morse behind him covered his eyes with his ha
Hearing this, Frank approached her and whispered, "Big sis, think it through. This guy doesn't seem too smart; having him around might lower our overall standard.""Don't worry, if you can work well in the studio, so can he."Frank: ???Reeves beamed with joy: "Then, Miss Thompson, please accept my flowers first. When I join the Blue Rose Studio, we can get to know each other better.""I welcome you to Blue Rose as a designer, but I can't accept your flowers or feelings.""Why?""Because I already have someone I love."Reeves: ......He opened his mouth slightly, then his expression fell."Who is it?"Reeves scanned the group behind Diana one by one.A bunch of top-notch handsome guys and beautiful girls almost blinded him.This...Each one was very likely!Reeves had a complex expression on his face: "May I ask impertinently, the person you like, is it a man or a woman?"Diana:
Faced with the relentless questions from the reporters, Diana remained calm.She nodded."The name Blue Rose does hold a special meaning for me. As for Reeves, I'm not familiar with him; I have nothing to say.""Miss Thompson, you're so young and accomplished; how about your love life? Do you have a boyfriend?"Hearing this, Ben immediately stepped forward."This is Diana's privacy; we refuse to answer!"The reporters were taken aback for a moment.Everyone stared at Ben wearing a hat; suddenly, excitement surged: "Isn’t this Big Star Fly? Why did he suddenly appear here?"Someone seemed to realize something."Could it be that Fly and Thompson are a couple?!""You're talking nonsense! Diana is my biological sister; stop spouting rubbish here! And this is my girlfriend!"Saying that, Ben pulled Liora over and tightly grasped her hand."This is my girlfriend; Diana is my sister, got it?!"Hearin