I was momentarily stunned."Trust me."Megan sat cross-legged on the sofa, looking quite certain. "He's currently in a struggle. He likes you, but he's also afraid to like you."I smiled. "Stop guessing around. The person he likes is Lily. I just happen to look somewhat like her...""No, that's not it!"Megan countered firmly, "My brother isn't like that. Over the years, there have been many people who look even more like Lily than you, but he's never paid any attention to them. It's not that I'm speaking ill of him. He's always been someone who only acts when there's a benefit. If it weren't for his feelings, why would he keep helping you time and time again?""What he did was..."I wanted to refute, but halfway through, I couldn't find a reason.For instance, Zack's incident, and when Mrs. Shaw forced me to kneel in the snow... it didn't seem like he was helping just because it was convenient.Afterwards, he never demanded anything from me.As I left, I felt somewhat distra
"Yes, there is."I curved my lips and mustered the courage to say, "If it's the latter, I'm worried that you might have developed feelings for me."He scoffed, "Worried? Are you saying that if I like you, it will make you uneasy?""Pretty much," I said candidly. "You have a good personality, a good family background, and you're loyal. It's hard not to be moved by someone like you, but precisely because of that, it's impossible for us to be together.""Impossible?""Yes, impossible."I took a deep breath, looking at him earnestly. "I'm not a naive girl anymore. It's impossible for me to willingly walk into a dangerous situation knowing it's there. Your loyalty is a flaw in my eyes. Just now, you helped me, so I'll help you deal with your parents. Other than that, let's be rational."That night, after washing up in the guest room arranged by Madam Shaw, I lay in bed but remained wide awake.What did Frank say to me earlier?He said, "Charlotte, don't think you're the only one sc
This was the first time Frank showed such an expression.It was hard to say if it was nervousness, excitement, or anxiety...In any case, it was completely different from his usual rebellious demeanor.At that moment, it felt as if I saw a glimpse of the old Ryan in him.Suddenly, I became even more composed, almost cold-hearted, suppressing all the emotions that almost burst forth, and turned decisively."Yeah, go on."Before Frank could hang up the phone, he stepped forward, wrapped me in his arms with one hand, and no matter how much I struggled, he held me tightly.On the other end of the line, there were a few more words exchanged. He then said calmly, "Be more careful and don't let anyone lead you astray. I'll come over after I finish comforting someone."With that, he ended the call, shoved his phone into his pocket, and squeezed my face with his large hand, deforming it. He looked at me with a hint of grievance. "Why are you running away? Didn't you hear what I just sai
"Alright."I obediently walked over, ate a few dumplings, and then smiled at Madam Shaw, feeling inexplicably reluctant. I could only say, "Grandma, I've troubled you these past two days. I'm going back to Jelaston soon. I wish you a happy New Year in advance and all the best.""Why are you leaving so soon? Aren't you going to help Frank...""He..." I gathered my thoughts. "He probably won't need my help anymore."His true love was probably coming back soon."What do you mean? If he doesn't need your help, are you just going to abandon me?"Madam Shaw pretended to be upset. "I was looking forward to having someone kind to spend the New Year with, and now you're leaving? It's the New Year, stay here and celebrate with me!""Grandma..."Seeing her like this, I was touched.But I also knew that staying here any longer would be inappropriate.Madam Shaw held my hand. "Even if you go back, you'll be alone. Just stick to my arrangements...""Grandma!"Suddenly, a domineering voic
Before I could say anything, Madam Shaw was instantly furious!With a face full of anger, she glared at Mrs. Shaw. "Who gave you the right to drive guests away from my courtyard?""Grandma, it's okay!"I remembered Frank saying that Grandma couldn't handle extreme emotions, so I quickly reassured her. "I was planning to leave anyway. Soon... Frank should bring the real Miss Shaw back to see you."In a family reunion scene like this, as an outsider, I shouldn't be here.Madam Shaw wanted to me to stay, but seeing that I was insistent, she didn't say anything more.I quickly gathered my luggage I had packed earlier in the morning, and soon came downstairs with my suitcase. Mrs. Shaw escorted me out of the courtyard and, once we were far enough that Madam Shaw couldn't hear, spoke with a hint of disdain, "Don't come back unless there's something really important. The Shaw family isn't a place where just anyone can use!""Mrs. Shaw." I didn't stop walking or look at her, and said ca
My eyes warmed up, and I laughed and cried at the same time, sending her the location. "So, you're not going to Sentrea for a romantic encounter?""Is the romantic encounter more important or you? I'm not going to let you spend the New Year alone."She didn't seem to care and cheerfully changed the subject. "Besides, I heard Jeswood is also quite good for a romantic encounter.""Such great kindness, I can't repay."I couldn't help but chuckle. "I can only offer you a full package of food, drink, and fun as a token of my gratitude."Actually, Jane and I were so close that we might as well be sharing money.Neither of us cared about these things.But when she heard this, she cooperated enthusiastically. "Ms. Wilson, you're so generous! I'll come right away to cling to you."As soon as Jane arrived, my mood improved significantly.She stood by the window, admiring the snowy scenery of Jeswood. "What do you think about the news about Frank?"I was momentarily taken aback. "What d
Even though the corridor floor was covered with soft carpet, the pain from my butt hitting the ground made my muddled brain regain a bit of clarity.The person who brought me upstairs was Ryan.I actually mistook him for someone else.Perhaps sensing my resistance, Ryan was momentarily stunned, then, against the light, he sneered. "Are you determined to be with him? Are you planning to be a bridesmaid when he marries the eldest daughter of the Shaw family?"Frank's remarks were always sharp. "Are you trying to impose your own experiences on me?"He took a few large strides to where I was and helped me up from the floor, then looked at Ryan with a faint smile. "Mr. Frost, take care, no need to see us off."Ryan clenched his fists, suppressing his anger. "You'd better focus on Lily. Charlotte will only ever be mine.""She has never belonged to anyone." Frank's voice was calm. "She is herself."Ryan's gaze grew colder as he extended his hand to me, adopting what he probably though
A sudden pang of bitterness surged through me.It felt like I had been unexpectedly pricked by something.I pointed towards the door, my voice was cold. "Get out!""Charlotte, who spoiled you with this terrible attitude? Can't you speak properly?""Did you speak properly?"I glared at him, indignant. "Why are you criticizing me? What about your fiancee? Don't you need to be with her? Why do you have time to come find me?""You’re still so defensive even after you’re drunk."He pressed his tongue against his cheek, and after a brief laugh, he seemed resigned. He half-squatted in front of me, his tone softening."Fine, it was my fault for not speaking to you properly in my moment of desperation. I accept the punishment.""What punishment?" I asked instinctivelyHe cocked his brows and said, "Another kiss from you?"Only then did I realize his ears were flushed red.I shook my head, trying to clear the alcohol-induced haze, and looked at him as clearly as I could. "Why are you
Knock knock—There was a knock at the door.Zachary stood up to open it.Raymond handed him a chicken pizza.He sensed that the atmosphere wasn’t quite right and, gathering some courage, she asked, "Sir, you didn’t have anything for dinner. Should I have the hotel bring something over?"Zachary nodded and mentioned a few dishes.Raymond agreed and went to instruct the hotel.He happened to run into Ross on his way back and they chatted."I have no idea what Miss Greenwood might want. Mr. Collins doesn’t even know what he likes to eat himself, but he remembers what she likes."Ross, eating a sandwich, said, "Doesn’t Mr. Collins like roast chicken?"He remembered that when Miss Greenwood brought food to the Mr. Collins’s house last time, she had mentioned it.Raymond shot him a look. "You’re a blockhead. That’s what Miss Greenwood likes. Now, the things that Mr. Collins like are because they’re what Miss Greenwood likes."Ross blinked. "Oh."Raymond was rendered speechless.
Jane said, "This is not something you should be doing.""I caused the injury, so I should be the one to handle it.""I'll do it myself!"Zachary held her hands, "You can't see the injury, you have long nails as well. What if you hurt yourself again? I think I should apply the medicine."Jane felt helpless."Zachary, I’ll just ask you one thing, can you understand what I’m saying?""I’ve already ordered pizza. It’ll be delivered soon."‘As expected, he doesn’t understand what I said,’ thought Jane.Jane was no match for Zachary in terms of strength or words, so she ended up crying.Zachary stopped.Jane immediately broke free from his hands and sat on the other side of the bed."Do you only feel happy when you see me in pain?"Zachary pursed his lips. "No.""Then why do you insist on forcing me to do things I don't want to do? I’m a person, not some item that you can do whatever you want to.""Is that how you see me?" Zachary looked at her, his eyes darkened slightly. "I l
"I was just handling some matters, but I can't tell you. Please understand."Jane seemed to believe him and nodded. "I see."Raymond also nodded. "That's right."Jane smiled. "You were handling matters, but what about the others?""They also have their own matters to deal with.""So..." Jane’s gaze suddenly became sharp. "You all went off to work, but there's no one guarding the hotel entrance? Aren’t you worried that while he’s in bed with me, his enemies might come and kill him? After all, the bed is when a man is most vulnerable. You’re a man, so you should understand that, right?"For a moment, Raymond seemed distracted, as if he had seen his Mr. Collins casually asking him what mistake he had made.Then, with a cold tone, he would be sent off to Afrealia, just like Roy.The more you say, the more mistakes you make. He stopped explaining and simply said."Miss Greenwood, it’s not safe outside. You should stay in the hotel and wait for Mr. Collins."Jane didn’t believe the
He placed the pillow behind her waist and asked gently, "What do you want to eat? I’ll have someone prepare it."Jane glared at him and said, "Get out!"Zachary took her hand and said, "There’s a banquet tomorrow. Come with me."Jane pulled her hand back and replied coldly, "You’re really sick.""Yes, and you’re the reason I”m sick."Jane raised her hand, intending to hit him. "Get out!"Zachary grabbed her wrist and smiled.Jane felt that he was seriously ill and decided it was better to just leave.But as soon as she lifted the blanket, a cold wind blew, and she quickly pulled it back up."Turn around!"Her teeth were clenched in anger, wishing she could bite him.Zachary's gaze slid over her body. "What are you hiding?""I..."Jane covered his mouth. "Don’t be such a pervert."Zachary held her hand. "The banquet tomorrow has to do with the purpose of your trip. Are you really not going?""How do you know what I came here for?"Zachary didn’t answer, just looked at he
Annie saw the red marks on his neck as he moved.There was also a bite mark on his Adam's apple.Both marks told her of the wildness he had shared with Jane just moments ago.The thing she feared most had happened."And not even a day apart," Zachary said again, his voice was cold enough to send shivers down one’s spine.Annie met his sharp gaze, instinctively taking a step back.But then she felt it was wrong and moved forward to stand in front of him."What are you saying? I don’t understand," she said, reaching out to grab his arm.Zachary turned sideways to avoid her, and Ross immediately restrained Annie, kicking her in the knee and forcing her to kneel on the ground."Zachary!"Annie had never been so humiliated before.Since childhood, everyone had always revolved around her.She was given everything she wanted.Without speaking, people would rush to her, handing her things that were close to her heart.Zachary was no different, he had been delivered to her by her
"I had wanted to repay you before, but you refused. Turns out, you were saving it for such a situation. Zachary, is it fun to fool me around?"Zachary lifted his head, and his dark eyes were filled with deep desire.He had been restraining himself, and the veins on his arm were bulging.But this time, he wanted to ask her for a favor."Am I really so unworthy in your eyes?"It wasn’t that he was completely unacceptable, but after all, he had previously forced her against her will."You can’t have lost contact with your subordinates.""Nelana isn’t my turf. There are people here who don’t want me here."As for his business matters, Jane didn’t want to know or analyze anything.She simply said, "Anyway, I’m not suited to help you solve the current problem. If you want, you can get some cold water, and I’ll go buy some medicine for you."The corners of Zachary’s eyes drooped slightly, and he looked almost pitiful."Is it really that hard to help me?"Jane nodded. "I think we’r
Before Jane finished speaking, she watched as Zachary slowly stood up on his own.But then he suddenly leaned towards her.She quickly held him up.Zachary rested his head on her shoulder, his breath hot and heavy against her neck, so hot it felt alarming."Wait, weren't the people around you supposed to be sticking with you at all times? How did you end up like this, all alone?"She heard the man's voice, weak and faint."Take me back to the hotel..."Jane was really at her wit's end.He didn't even tell her the name of the hotel. How was she supposed to know where to take him?In the end, with no other choice, she reached into his pocket to find his phone.She searched both side pockets of his pants, but there was no phone.He was only wearing a white shirt, no coat.That meant his phone wasn't on him.No wonder he hadn't contacted his subordinates.But that didn't make sense either—his subordinates were supposed to be with him at all times.Before she could figure it
"People are really into these things now. I often see them on live streams," said Jane.Dominic poured her a cup of barley tea. "The houses people want aren’t just any ordinary houses."Jane knew buying a house wasn't easy. It had taken her some time to secure her little place.If it weren't for Charlotte helping her out, she probably wouldn't have gotten it so quickly."Don’t worry. If I like what I see this time, when I go back and combine it with our brand, we'll promote it. You’ll be able to make money and buy a house.""That sounds good. I know how influential your brand is."The two of them chatted happily in the private room.In the room next door, however, the atmosphere was cold and tense.Annie, seemingly unaware, picked up some food for Zachary and even peeled an apple for him."I grew up in Nelana. I have lung issues, so I’m not really suited to Jeswood’s weather.""This restaurant has been around for almost 100 years. It’s a Nelana specialty. Try this, the apples
At the hospital.After confirming that everything was fine, Zachary immediately went to the airport.Frank glanced at the time. "Leaving overnight?"Zachary nodded, a look of exhaustion between his brows.Frank took Charlotte and left the hospital with him, only to see two cars.He asked, "Is Annie going with you?"Zachary nodded again.Frank was confused. "What kind of game is this?""Let's go."Zachary didn't answer, opened the car door, and bent down to sit inside.After the two cars drove off, Charlotte asked, "Last night, did you interfere too much?"Frank touched his chin. "I shouldn't have...""Shouldn't have what?""Can't I tell who he likes?"The two of them went home to pack and then went to their respective companies.Charlotte noticed that Jane's dark circles under her eyes couldn't even be covered by foundation. She asked, "Did you go clubbing last night?"Jane shook her head. "I couldn't sleep, maybe the jet lag still hasn't passed."Charlotte immediately