Debra's heart melted. "You're so cute. Did someone teach you that?"Debra cooed at the puppy, glancing meaningfully at Marion.Marion replied seriously, "Not me. I've been having my people take care of him.""Really?" Debra looked at the dog curiously.The three-month-old golden retriever stared at her and whined. Debra couldn't resist kissing it. Their meeting seemed to be fate."Puppy, what's your name?" she asked, gazing into the puppy's eyes.The puppy seemed to understand, stretching out its paw to touch Debra's belly.Marion chimed in, "He doesn't have a name yet. Do you want to give him one?"Debra looked at the puppy and then at her belly.In her past life, the doctor had told her she was carrying a boy. She had named him Ori, often stroking her belly and muttering his name, so that he'd know his name when he was born.Ori meant dawn. She thought she was finally seeing the light, but instead, she was plunged into hell. She didn't even get to see her baby before they b
Instead of explaining the matter, Randy dialed Marion's number and told Marion to return to the Potter Mansion as quickly as possible.This thing was major. No one in Seamar City was aware of it yet, but Marion's people had been closely monitoring the overseas situation. They would be notified at the first sign of trouble.It was already late at night when Marion and Debra rushed back, with Debra cradling the puppy in her arms.Erica was surprised. "Where did you two go in the middle of the night? And why did you bring back a golden retriever?"Ori tilted its head, surveying the room. Debra set it down on the floor. "We adopted it. You mentioned there was trouble overseas. What happened?"Andrew, seated at the desk, explained, "Recently, some small groups have caused disturbances. We found out quickly and managed to stop them, but there was still some unrest."Debra furrowed her brow. "Just small groups? That simple?"Randy interjected, "Of course, it's not that simple. Those pe
Andrew subtly averted his gaze. "You two go ahead. The medical facilities overseas are more advanced and will be helpful for Debra's rehabilitation. Don't worry about Seamar City. After the stunt Debra pulled, Drake won't be able to establish any businesses here for a while. Since he's creating rumors overseas, he won't stay in Seamar City for long. I'm sure he's already left.""Alright," Marion said, leading Debra out of the room.Debra saw his serious expression and asked, "Is the situation very tricky?""It's manageable.""If it were manageable, you wouldn't look like this."Marion stopped in his tracks, and she pressed, "If those overseas assets are taken away, what will happen?""I've been managing overseas businesses for years to open up a market there. My parents' deaths are connected to overseas interests," Marion replied."Do you mean the Lowe family was not behind your and my parents' deaths?" she asked."No, the Lowe family is involved, but it was the previous genera
Overseas at Drake's villa, Liza linked arms with Cathryn, leading her to a guest room on the second floor."I had this room prepared for you. Make yourself at home here," Liza said.Looking at the luxurious decorations inside, Cathryn hesitated. "But this is the Lowe family's house. It doesn't feel right for me to stay here.""What are you afraid of? You're my best friend. Not only can you stay here, but you could even stay at my place. My dad wouldn't say a thing. Besides, Drake insisted on having you stay here. I didn't order him to do it." Liza showed a disdainful look at the mention of Drake."He is the CEO of the Lowe Group and your fiancé. You should respect him," Cathryn advised."Respect him? With his background, he doesn't even fit to lick my boots," Liza scoffed. "I don't know what my dad was thinking, arranging for me to marry someone like Drake.""Liza...""Don't forget, Drake was just a lowlife from the slums. Your father only kept him around because of Marion. Clim
"I don't care. I'm not marrying a loser who can't even afford a villa," Liza scoffed, linking arms with Cathryn. "Come on, let's go shopping. My dad bought me a mall, and you can pick whatever you want."She left without taking another glance at Drake.Drake watched them leave, the smile on his face fading quickly. He made a decision in his mind. Once he used the Eaton family's power to take down Marion, he would make sure Liza paid dearly....The flight from Seamar City to overseas landed.Debra put on sunglasses and a cap, linking arms with Marion as they exited the airport.As a former public figure, she was worried about being recognized. Their trip overseas was a secret, and they didn't want to alert anyone to their presence.Outside the airport, people of all kinds bustled through the streets. The city was a mix of towering medieval architecture and modern commercial districts."This place truly is the city of romance," Debra remarked.Marion said, "But also a city of s
"Miss, would you like to buy some flowers?" A boy with a dirty face approached Debra, holding a bundle of slightly wilted flowers.Debra's heart softened, and she was about to take the flowers from the boy when Marion suddenly grabbed the boy's wrist.The boy cried out in pain, dropping the flowers and revealing a hidden switchblade.Debra gasped, shocked by the sight. Marion's voice was cold as he said, "Mugging in broad daylight? Aren't you afraid of death?"The boy paled with fright. He stumbled back and ran away without picking up the knife.Debra looked at the crude but sharp blade on the ground. "Why would they want to kill someone?""The slums here have chaotic law enforcement," Marion explained. "People do anything to survive. These kids target wealthy people, fishing for sympathy. They stab, rob, and run."Debra frowned. "Aren't they afraid of being reported to the police?""There are no cameras on this street," Marion said. "They smear dirt on their faces to avoid bei
"Take us there," Marion commanded.The staff member felt offended. "Sir, I already told you I didn't have the authority."Instead of mincing words, Marion stepped up to the staff member and pressed the switchblade against his stomach. The staff member's face paled, and he was about to call for help when Marion warned, "You can try. Let's see if someone comes to your rescue before you hit the ground."Fearing for his life, the staff member stammered, "Okay. I'll take you."He turned to lead the way, but Marion warned, "Don't try any tricks. I know all your moves."Debra understood that Marion didn't want to reveal his identity. The staff member quickly led them to the underground level.The noise down there was deafening. A vast, illegal casino sprawled out before them.Marion's expression darkened as he realized this was one of his establishments. He had come to investigate whether there were any issues with his operation.Debra noticed an inconspicuous symbol in the casino. It
Swiftly, the staff member placed the chips in front of Marion."Sir, have you played Big or Small before?""No, I haven't.""It's quite simple. You just bet on either Big or Small and place your chips accordingly."Debra chimed in, "So how do you determine what's Big and what's Small?""You see these three dice? If the total points rolled are 11 or above, it's Big. If it's ten or below, it's Small.""That simple, huh?" Debra turned to Marion. "Honey, what do you think? Big or Small?"Marion grabbed some chips and handed them to Debra. "Your choice.""Well, I'll go with Big." Debra placed the chips on Big.The staff signaled the dealer, who understood the cue. When the dice were revealed, it was indeed Big.Those who had bet on Big cheered as they won their money. Debra handed the winning chips to Marion, but he gave her some more. "Pick again."Pretending to be thrilled by her beginner's luck, Debra eagerly placed the chips on Big again. "I'll stick with Big."The two of th
Erica rushed forward and said, "Barton, you're here just in time. I need to ask you something."Barton cut her off. "Mr. Andrew Potter's condition has suddenly worsened. It's very serious right now. Please come back with me immediately.""What?" Debra exclaimed. "He was fine yesterday."An image of the previous day suddenly popped into her mind. Jordan had gone into Andrew's room right after she left."Do you know about this?" Debra asked. "Jordan is the new president of the Lowe Group?"Barton, as Andrew's trusted aide, was supposed to know if this was part of Andrew's plan."What?" Barton was puzzled. "Mr. Jordan Potter?"Debra decided to go upstairs to confront Jordan. Erica quickly reached out to stop her."Where are you going? Didn't you just say we can't go up there earlier?""I have to go and ask him. What is he doing? Betraying the family?""Betrayal it is," Liza chimed in. "I'm going with you."She grabbed Debra's arm and rushed up the stairs.The guards immediatel
"What's going on?"Liza looked around, and her gaze landed on a huge pendulum clock on the wall.It gave a low, echoing chime. Debra looked over and saw it struck eight at night.A beam of light shone down onto a sofa on the second floor. Sitting on it was a masked man.Debra stared at him and had an oddly familiar feeling.Erica had the same feeling. "This guy...""Welcome to the party. I am the Lowe Group's new president."The voice was so familiar that both Debra and Erica froze in shock.Liza patted them on the shoulder. "Is that Andrew's brother? Did I hear wrong?"She didn't know what was going on, but the new president turned out to be Jordan.Just a few days ago, when they saw the news, he hadn't said anything.On the second floor, Jordan removed his mask, revealing a frosty face. Everyone stared at him in surprise because Jordan had disappeared from Seamar City for an entire year.He used to be reckless and lazy. Somehow, he became the new president of the Lowe G
"What is this? Do I have to wear this ugly thing to attend your party?" Liza grumbled, tossing the mask back with disdain. "I spent two hours on my makeup. If I wear this, all that effort will go to waste. No way I'm wearing it."The security guard replied politely, "I'm sorry, but rules are rules. Without the mask, you can't go in.""I've never heard of such a ridiculous rule," Liza huffed, ready to leave.Debra grabbed her hand. "Don't you want to have fun anymore?""I..." Liza hesitated.Debra leaned in and whispered, "The new president of the Lowe Group is trying to impress people. Just put on the mask and take it off once you're inside. What are they gonna do? Can they just throw you out?""Sounds like a plan." Liza nodded. "Even Drake didn't dare mess with me. Why should I care about them?"She picked up the mask again and put it on.Erica nudged Debra. "I guess you're going to be a pro at handling kids."Debra pressed a finger to her lips.The three of them entered the
Faced with the same question, Debra explained again, "Got it from a fall when I was a kid.""Fell?" Erica muttered, skeptical. "It doesn't look so."She suddenly remembered something major from back in the day. The major families all sent their representatives over.There had been a little girl who was injured on her back and rushed to the hospital.Erica remembered it well because Andrew had been holding that girl."What's wrong?" Debra turned and saw Erica spacing out.Erica came to her senses. "Ah... Nothing. It doesn't look like a fall.""You're talking like Liza." Debra twirled in front of the mirror and said, "What do you think? Should I change into something else? It doesn't look so good if it reveals the scar.""Why not wear this one instead?" Liza came out, holding an azure gown. "It's pretty and not too flashy."Debra took it and nodded with satisfaction. "This one it is."Liza grabbed Erica and pulled her toward the changing room. "I picked one for you too. Let's g
At her call, ten bodyguards walked into the room.Debra explained, "For safety's sake, these are our bodyguards for the day. Get familiar with them so there are no misunderstandings later."Liza was unimpressed. "Are ten of them enough? I usually bring 20."Erica snorted, "You want 20. Ask your daddy. Too many people will be arrestive.""What? Are you judging me?" Liza fumed."I am. I haven't even slapped you yet," Erica countered, rolling up her sleeves.Debra quickly stepped in. "Alright, it's about time. Let's go."She grabbed Erica's arm and headed toward the door. Liza followed them reluctantly.The whole morning was spent at a salon. Debra and Erica kept yawning, but Liza was full of energy."Is she really a spoiled lady?" Erica muttered, trailing behind Liza. "My barn needs a workhorse like her."Finally, they arrived at the store Liza had mentioned. Debra and Erica were grateful for a short break.Liza pulled Debra over. "Look at all these beautiful dresses. Can't wa
The next morning, Debra was shaken awake by Liza."Debra, get up," Liza urged, moving to pull off the blankets.Debra had stayed up all night going through the materials that Andrew gave her.She was still exhausted and buried her head under the covers."It's still early. What do you want?""Get up. Let's go pick a dress. I heard there's a great store."Debra couldn't focus, and she didn't want to hear any of it. All she wanted to do was sleep."Marion, get her out of here," she yelled.Marion knocked and came in. "Please leave."He had just finished preparing breakfast for Debra.Liza was upset. "I asked my dad to help you guys. And this is how you repay me? Fine, I'll go by myself tonight."With that, she headed toward the door.Debra sighed and got up. "Alright, I'll go with you. Is that okay?""That's more like it," Liza smiled. "I'll wait for you outside. Hurry up."She hummed a tune and skipped out of the room.Debra rubbed her temples. Marion said, "If you don't w
Barton held the medicine in front of Andrew and pleaded, "Sir, please take your medicine, alright? Take it, get some rest, and by tomorrow, you'll feel better. Mrs. Houston will still be here."Andrew relaxed a little. It was true.Debra was alive. She was beautiful, elegant, and clever, just as he had always imagined. She had gotten married and was living a happy life."Being my wife is dangerous," he murmured to himself. "The life she has now is the best path I could have given her."He swallowed the pills and leaned back against the bed. Sleep eluded him, but his memories didn't.Once again, he was transported back 16 years.Jordan and the six-year-old Debra were kidnapped. His parents rushed to save Jordan but were ambushed. Both lost their lives.Andrew did his best to rescue Debra, but his legs were injured during the process.He cradled the unconscious, injured Debra in his arms, crawling desperately away from the explosions. For the first time, he understood what despai
"Help me!"A little girl's desperate cries echoed in Andrew's mind, and he woke up from a dream.The room was pitch black and eerily silent. As if drained, he weakly leaned against the head of the bed. Fragments of a memory flickered in his mind like a haunting replay."Hold my hand.""Hug me."A sweet, childlike voice seemed to call out to him again, as if it had traveled through time to reach him. He opened his eyes and was pulled into a memory from many years ago.The summer air carried the fresh scent of grass. In the courtyard, koi fish chased one another in the pond. Sunlight bathed the entire yard, its warmth embracing everything in its reach.He was just an 11-year-old boy then. In front of him stood a little girl with a chubby face. Her little hands tugged at his sleeve.Andrew bent down, as if this moment had been predestined, and smiled at her. "What now?""Swing-swing," replied the girl, pointing at a swing set not far away."It's a swing.""Swing-swing.""Alrig
Standing outside was Jordan.He asked bluntly, "What are you doing here?""I came to visit Andrew," Debra replied with a frown, sensing hostility. "Anything wrong with that?"Jordan pressed his lips together. "How is he?""Not so good. He's been coughing," Debra replied, shaking her head. "I'll leave now."Barton spoke up. "Mrs. Houston, you left something behind.""Oh right, the report Ben gave me," Debra responded, walking back to the desk to grab the papers.Once she left, Jordan went into the room and closed the door behind him.Debra paused, wondering why Andrew asked her to hide his fake illness from Jordan."Hey."Suddenly, a voice startled Debra. She turned around and saw Liza standing behind her.Liza looked puzzled. "What are you staring at so intently?"Debra composed herself and asked, "What's up?""Nothing, just bored. I haven't seen you around lately," Liza pouted. "Didn't you guys get into some kind of trouble? I called my dad. Don't worry. Within three days