'That mutt! Did he think Julian staying at his place would make me want to send him to his college entrance exam? Well, I'm not going!' Stella thought.Shortly after, Shelly gave her a call."Stella, I'm really sorry to bother you. The place for Julian's test is so far from the orphanage."Ms. Cecilia and I don't know much about these college tests. We almost booked a hotel close by, but by the time we tried, they were all taken."I was worried Julian wouldn't get enough rest, but thank goodness for you."Every year during the college entrance tests, hotels near the exam center would get fully booked, and their prices would skyrocket.A regular room would start at three thousand dollars, and they weren't anything special. They weren't even soundproof. The nicer rooms went for five or six thousand dollars, but those got snatched up really fast.Originally, Shelley thought about renting an RV and hiring a driver to take Julian there so he could rest in the car during the break.B
Julian remembered Stella's words about Keegan graduating from high school more than ten years ago. 'Can he really teach me?' he pondered.However, Julian soon realized that Keegan's approach wasn't conventional; it was rooted in his problem-solving experience.Keegan rarely needed to write out calculations for multiple-choice questions. He simply studied the question and deduced the answers from the options. Sometimes, he directly inferred the numerator or denominator from the provided data, eliminating incorrect choices.Julian's teacher had introduced a similar method, but learning it from Keegan made it much easier to grasp and apply.After that, Julian enthusiastically delved into the practice. Once Keegan finished explaining two sets of questions, Julian eagerly brought out a fresh batch to tackle. With a solid groundwork and quick understanding, within two hours, his speed in answering multiple-choice questions had improved by over ten minutes, achieving an accuracy rate of 7
Even without proof, Trevor remained convinced that what occurred wasn't accidental. Yvette had mentioned that the chances of the hospital mixing up samples were incredibly slim. Trevor's inability to uncover the true reason suggested to him that they were adept at concealing it.Despite reaching out to the nurses and doctors responsible for delivering the babies at the time of the incident, it had been too long ago for them to recall specific details. So, Trevor found himself in a waiting game, hoping for any follow-up.Looking at Stella's photo on her profile, Trevor sighed heavily. Due to Stella's striking resemblance to their mother, he discovered he had a sister.Suddenly, just as he was thinking about this, the door was pushed open. Trevor paused. When he saw that it was Jaylene, he said in frustration, "Jaylene, where are your manners? You don't even knock on the door now when you enter my office.""The door was open," Jaylene said with a smile as she walked over. "Besides, y
Trevor was taken aback, and his expression turned cold. "You signed a contract with Bella Young?"Unaware of the change in his demeanor, Jaylene proudly exclaimed, "She terminated her deal with Green Hill Media, and I managed to snatch her from Royal Deluxe Entertainment for you. I offered her an 8 million dollar signing bonus. Quite the steal, right?"Trevor was grim. He glanced at the contract bearing Bella's fingerprint, his expression souring. However, Jaylene continued talking excitedly. "I'm expecting some appreciation this time. It's not too much to ask. I just want you to—"Before Jaylene could finish her sentence, Trevor sharply interrupted, "Who gave you the authority to bring her on board?!"Jaylene was taken aback. Trevor had never shown anger toward her, let alone raised his voice. It took her a while to gather herself."I only wanted to assist, Trevor. Bella's contract with Green Hill Media ended, and many companies were vying to sign her. The highest offer for a sig
Jaylene was with Trevor both times she had an asthma attack. This made Wenham feel that Trevor did not take good care of Jaylene. "You really are something, huh? How could you get mad at Jaylene? Don't you know that she isn't in good health? Can't you just tell her off nicely?"All she did was sign a contract with a celebrity. What's the big deal? Just let her do it if she wants to. It doesn't matter whether that girl can get popular. We don't need the money. So why the hell did you yell at her?!"Trevor said nothing.Darcie brought over some water and tried to calm Wenham down. "Forget it. Jaylene is fine. You always go to war if there's any trouble regarding Jaylene. Trevor was thinking about the company. You know how much he cares for Jaylene. It was just a small quarrel. You saying all this is ruining their relationship."Jaylene was awakened by the noise and went downstairs. "Dad, I told you I'm fine. Why did you ask Trevor to come?""I'm just giving him an earful. If anythin
Upon learning that Bella wouldn't be playing the role of the Queen in "The Palace," her fans expressed their dissatisfaction. Consequently, when Elegant Media reposted the Facebook announcement, Bella's fans were unsure of its significance. Some speculated that it might have been an attempt to undermine someone involved in the situation.Soon, the search [Terminated Contract] became trending, and Bella's fans boldly spoke out against Elegant Media.Initially, Bella was happy because of the signing, but when she saw the trending search, her mood soured. She quickly contacted someone to help suppress the news."This bunch of idiots is utterly insane!"Bella was furious. "It was difficult enough to get signed under Elegant Media, and here they are, causing trouble. They actually think that they're the shit after getting some attention, judging here and there. I can sign with whoever I want to sign. What does it have to do with them, huh?""Bella, please keep your voice down. You shou
Keegan's mouth twitched."Didn't you say no one can help me?" Julian asked with a smile.Keegan put down his glass of water and said, "Do you want to try?""Try what?""Try fighting a black belt in Taekwondo, a level 10 in Jujitsu, and a master at free combat," Keegan said slowly.Julian was at a loss for words. "Sorry, Keegan. I was wrong."'This kid's energy sure does feel a lot like Stella's,' Keegan thought.Julian closed the book, laid his head on the table, and asked, "Keegan, how did you meet Stella?" After two days of getting along, he was not as afraid of Keegan as before.Keegan scrolled through his phone and said in a casual tone, "She was a damsel in distress, and I saved her."Julian was surprised. "It surely doesn't seem that way to me. It's like you guys would not have batted an eye if you didn't know each other."Julian was a smart kid, and Keegan, who did not like getting into other people's businesses, treated him well because of Stella.Keegan paused. Juli
Stella wanted to slap herself after saying those words.'My stupid, out-of-control mouth!' she thought.Seeing her reaction, Keegan wanted to laugh.However, he understood that if he gave in to his laughter, Stella might decide to leave and seek refuge in the car.Struggling to suppress his amusement, Keegan covered his mouth with his right fist and cleared his throat before speaking, "Eat with Julian. He might feel too shy to eat if you don't join him."Julian was speechless upon hearing that.For a moment, Stella had an internal struggle with her pride. Then, she feigned reluctance and said, "Alright, then. I'll eat with him."Ten minutes later, Julian observed as Stella refilled her bowl once more. He couldn't resist commenting, "Stella, don't celebrities need to watch their weight—"Before he could complete his sentence, someone kicked him on his shin beneath the table.Julian's lips twitched, and he fell silent.Stella was sitting beside him while Keegan was sitting acro
Keegan moved from initial resistance to reluctantly listening, and eventually to questioning."Why do these novels portray men as so stupid and brainless, yelling at the female lead as if they have intermittent explosive disorder?""Is the male lead sick? Forcing the female lead to donate a kidney, is he out of his mind?""How many years would they get for calling the police in their world?""Why is he so dumb? The supporting actress claims the female lead pushed her into the water and he believes it? Is checking surveillance footage illegal?""Stella, are you making fun of me?""I can't learn this. It all feels so neurotic. What does the female lead see in him?"Stella retorted, "Who cares if it's neurotic? Just mimic that stupidity, that's how these innocent women like men who protect them like that."Keegan was very reluctant, but his brain was more compliant than his body. Without needing to study deliberately, everything he heard stuck in his mind.So when Keegan mentione
Keegan's expression darkened with anger. "You're being completely unreasonable!"Stella crossed her arms, wearing an expression that seemed challenging. "You let her take it. Let's see if I dare."Jaylene hadn't actually wanted those junk items in the first place; she was deliberately trying to stir up discord between them. Now that her goal was achieved, she put on a sympathetic look."Keegan, I don't want it anymore. Don't be angry. Your health is more important. Didn't the doctor say to keep your emotions stable?"Turning her head, she reproached Stella. "Stella, are you here to help Keegan recover his memory or just to provoke him?""Shut up, you brat! Do you even have a say here?"Acting under the guise of a drama, playing the role of someone lacking in manners, was incredibly satisfying.She’d wanted to curse this brat for a long time!Jaylene's lips twitched, but she held back, tearfully saying, "Stella, if you don't like me, I'll leave. There's no need to humiliate me l
Jaylene understood the situation perfectly. Even though she didn't particularly like these cold, mechanical devices, she put on a pretense of surprise, saying, "Really, Keegan?"Keegan nodded. "Choose one you like.""Keegan!" Before Stella could finish her sentence, she couldn't hold back her sharp voice, "With your pile of junk that I can't even touch normally, she takes a look and now you want to give it to her? What's the meaning of this?!"Keegan frowned, apparently not comprehending her current anger at all. "Jaylene gave me a gift, and I'm giving her one in return. What's the problem?""What problem?" Stella's eyes started to redden. "I can't touch them, so why should she be able to? Have you forgotten, or do you have inappropriate feelings for her?"Keegan's expression darkened. "This makes no sense!"Jaylene secretly delighted in this, hypocritically trying to calm things down, "Forget it, Keegan. Since Stella minds so much, I don't want it anymore. You've strained your r
The standoff lasted for over twenty minutes before Keegan grabbed a book and knocked the beetle off Jaylene's neck. The beetle fluttered twice and suddenly flew up, landing on Jaylene's face.Jaylene screamed, rolled her eyes, and fainted.As she collapsed, the bug flew off again."Jaylene?"Keegan called out to her.He looked up at Stella and said, "You go start the car, I'll carry her to the hospital."As he spoke, he signaled to Stella.She understood and coldly grunted, "So troublesome."Walking over to Jaylene, she squatted down beside her and slapped her face twice.Jaylene immediately opened her eyes and reached out to push her away. "What are you doing!"Stella was prepared and had already moved back before she could be pushed.She shook her tingling hand and innocently said, "Jaylene, you fainted because of the bug. I was just saving you. Don't believe me? Ask Keegan."Jaylene nearly ground her teeth. Did she think she hadn't heard? She was intentionally exposing h
Her fingertips trembled with a mix of horror and excitement. Just as the teapot was about to slip from her grasp, Keegan suddenly said, "Jaylene, don't move."Jaylene froze, instinctively thinking Keegan had regained his memory. She had barely twitched when Keegan loudly stopped her again, "Don't move, absolutely don't move."Jaylene wanted to say something, but then felt an itching sensation on her neck, as if something was crawling slowly. Goosebumps erupted all over her body.By now, Stella had turned around and saw Jaylene standing stiffly with the teapot in hand. Her eyes quickly assessed the situation and then she noticed the beetle crawling on Jaylene's neck.It was an unknown species, not overly tentacled but as long as a little finger, its mouthparts slightly twitching, genuinely alarming in appearance.Stella murmured, "It's so big."Jaylene couldn't see what was on her neck, unsure if it would bite or if it was venomous. She stood frozen in place, her voice trembling,
Seeing him, Stella even lowered her eyes and softly praised, "Mr. Kane, you acted very well."Keegan glared at her, his voice low and intense. "If you keep watching like this, Coco will cut ties with me tomorrow."Stella replied confidently, "No, she won't. After accepting the red envelope, she can tolerate you a little longer."Keegan asked sharply, "Did you teach her to ask for red envelopes like this?""Don't falsely accuse me; I didn't teach her.""You may not have taught her directly, but you set an example. Have you forgotten how you always make me buy things for you?"Stella was speechless. Whenever she wanted Keegan to buy her something, she would often say, "Gifts are only surprises when given voluntarily. If reminded, it shows they don’t like me that much."It had to be said, Coco had learned the essence of it.Stella also felt a bit awkward, thinking that in the future, she needed to avoid such flirtatious conversations between spouses in front of the children. They
Could she figure all this out?Keegan frowned, casting a disappointed look at Coco. "Are you not listening to me now?"Coco raised her gaze defiantly and stated, "Aunt Stella taught me that if I don't want something someone gives me, I can say no. I don't want this hairpin.""Didn't she teach you that even if you don't like something, you should still say thank you?"Coco fell silent for a moment, then reluctantly said to Jaylene, "Thank you, Aunt Jaylene, but I don't want it."Jaylene hesitated with her hand extended, unsure whether to retract it or leave it there, managing a strained smile. "Then what do you like? Next time, I will get you something you do like."Coco asked, "Do you want me to do something for you?"Jaylene was taken aback. "What?"Coco replied seriously, "Aunt Stella says offering help without reason is either deceitful or thieving. Since you don't like me, why else would you give me something? You want me to do something for you, right?"Jaylene forced a s
Leighton's incident did indeed revive their suspicions.Jaylene was gullible, but Darcie might see through this scheme. "Keegan, why didn't you go to work today?" Jaylene chose to ask directly at first.Keegan remained composed. "I've been busy with the press conference lately and haven't had much rest. Now that things have slowed down, I thought I'd take a break and relax."Jaylene spoke gently, "You should rest well. Since you came back, you've been busy, and you've been postponing Dr. Stone's follow-up appointments. Keegan, I'm really worried about your health. Since you're resting these days, I'll arrange for Dr. Stone to give you another check-up. Stella has been living here to assist your recovery for so long. We need the doctor to give a clear assessment of whether there's been any improvement. Otherwise, it's not good for Stella's reputation to stay here so long, unmarried and under one roof."Keegan nodded. "Okay, please arrange it. Thank you."His response was decisive,
Stella had just descended the stairs when she heard that remark, causing her eyelids to twitch as she thought to herself, “Damn it! He really knows how to come up with excuses!”Upon hearing this, Jaylene's eyes briefly flashed with disdain, but she ultimately accepted the shoe covers Keegan handed her. As Keegan led Jaylene into the house, her eyes continued to scrutinize every corner.There were a couple of pillows on the sofa, couple mugs on the table, wedding photos of Keegan and Stella on the walls, and even headbands and hair ties scattered on the table. The house exuded an unmistakable feminine touch.Jaylene's expression darkened, but when Keegan turned to ask if she preferred tea or coffee, she adopted a gentle, harmless demeanor. "Tea would be perfect."Keegan invited her to take a seat and called for Maria to prepare tea. Jaylene spoke softly, "Keegan, I heard from Stella that you brew Dragon Well tea better than anyone else. Is there a special technique?"Stella paused