Peter knew that the only way to bring Tania back was through Nancy. As Tania's mother, Nancy held the key. If she asked Tania to return, Tania's sense of duty and filial piety would compel her to come back.This plan would undoubtedly hit Tania's weak spot and be the easiest way to persuade her. However, Noelle found it a bit puzzling. "If Aunt Nancy could really convince Tania to come back, then why didn't Peter ask for her help earlier? Why wait three years?"Charles explained, "Time can heal a lot of things. When Tania made up her mind to leave, even Uncle Henry and Aunt Nancy couldn't have stopped her."Forcing her to stay back then wouldn't have repaired anything between her and Peter. On top of that, Uncle Henry was prejudiced against Peter at the time. Even now, Peter still faces opposition from him.""So, Uncle Henry can't find out that I'm inviting Aunt Nancy over?" Noelle asked, finally understanding. "And that's why you're making me call Aunt Nancy instead of doing it yo
"What are you standing there for?" Noelle walked over, handing Charles the coat. "Here, put it on! Sure, you're healthy, but it's cold out there. You'd better bundle up. Getting sick over the festive season wouldn't be good."For some reason, Noelle seemed especially chatty today. Her soft, steady voice buzzed in Charles' ears like a little magpie chirping away. Yet, instead of finding it annoying, Charles found it soothing.Seeing Charles standing frozen in place, Noelle laughed softly. She then draped the coat over his shoulders.Charles reached out, grasping her hands. His eyes were filled with warmth as he gave her hand a gentle pat and smiled. "Nelly, don't we look like we're wearing matching outfits?"Matching outfits?Noelle blinked, then glanced down at her own coat before looking back at his. A chuckle escaped her. "It does look like it, doesn't it?""Let's go." Charles's voice softened as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. He then led her out the door.The two made the
Charles drove onto the highway, then took an exit, heading in the direction of Homestyle Garden House.Noticing the route, Noelle asked, "We're going to...""Homestyle Garden House," Charles replied.Noelle nodded, turning to Nancy. "Aunt Nancy, did you know that Homestyle Garden House is a garden house I co-own with a close friend? Would you like to stop by for a visit?""Sure!" Nancy smiled. "A garden house? What made you decide to open one?""It's just a hobby. My grandfather taught me how to make tea when I was young, and my friend happens to love tea as well."Before long, they arrived at Homestyle Garden House. Noelle helped Nancy out of the car, with Charles following closely behind.Teresa, who had just been chatting with Noelle in their group chat minutes ago, was surprised to see her walk through the door. She raised an eyebrow at the sight of the elegant woman accompanying Noelle. "Noelle, who's this?""This is Aunt Nancy. She's Charlie's uncle's wife," Noelle introd
Nancy nodded. "Your grandfather has a good eye." Although she had never met Sebastian in person, she had heard of him many times, especially because he was Charles' mentor and had a profound influence on him.She glanced at Charles, who raised an eyebrow and smiled. He then took the teaware from Noelle, carefully rinsing the pieces."Yes, his taste is truly impeccable," he said.Noelle chuckled. "Why do I feel like you're bragging?"Charles gave a soft laugh. "Whatever you say goes."Nancy and Teresa shared a laugh at that.Suddenly, footsteps echoed outside, approaching the room.Noelle tilted her head in curiosity and looked at Charles just as a knock sounded on the door. She gave Charles a questioning glance. He stood up calmly, walked to the door, and opened it.Standing tall in the doorway was a man. Though he seemed to have come in a rush, he looked composed without a trace of disarray. The usual intensity that clung to him was noticeably absent.Noelle was not surprised
Charles gave Peter a reassuring pat on the shoulder before allowing him to enter.Once inside, Peter found a seat and sat down. "Mom."Nancy's expression shifted. "Mr. Lennon, it would be better if you just called me Ms. Nancy," she replied calmly. The way he had initially addressed her as "Mom" clearly made her uncomfortable.However, her composure kept her from voicing anything harsher. "Go ahead. Tell me what brings you here today. Since you managed to persuade Charlie, it must be quite important."Peter nodded, accepting the teacup that Noelle handed him. He gave a polite nod. "Yes, Ms. Nancy. I asked to meet you today because of Tania."At the mention of Tania, Nancy's hand trembled slightly as she pressed her lips together.Her face clouded with unease as she stared at Peter. "You and Tania ended things three years ago. I remember you two divorced.""No, we didn't get a divorce," Peter said, his tone urgent but measured out of respect for Nancy's position.His words start
Peter had spent his life accustomed to solitude, embracing cold independence. However, from the moment he met Tania, he could not imagine being apart from her. Leaving her was never an option.Nancy frowned. "So, you're here to ask me to bring Tania back?"As a daughter raised in the Naylor family, Nancy was sharp and perceptive. She did not miss much.Peter nodded. "It's been three years. I've been searching for Tania all this while, but she won't see me. Even with all the connections I've used, I haven't been able to find her. You're her mother. Surely, you...""Have you ever considered that maybe Tania doesn't want to be found?" Nancy's voice was calm but piercing.Peter's hand trembled slightly, and a flicker of discomfort crossed his gaze.This man, who had always carried himself with pride and certainty, now faced a dilemma for which he had no answer to and no clear path forward.Throughout his 30-plus years, Peter had always lived with the belief that he could achieve any
Charles nodded. "I know. I've thought it through. When have I ever been careless?"Nancy gave a small nod. "But your Uncle Henry…""As long as you agree, Aunt Nancy, I can handle Uncle Henry," Charles replied. He was not in a rush to find Tania right away. "Peter is my good friend. You know me—my circle of friends is small. If I'm willing to help, it's because Peter deserves it."Aunt Nancy, I know a bit about what happened back then. There was more to it than met the eye. And over the past three years, it's not just Peter who has been looking for Tania. I've been searching too.""What?" Nancy looked startled. "You've been searching for Tania as well?"Charles gave a confirming nod, then glanced at Noelle. Noelle blinked in surprise. "What is it?""The documents I gave you before we left," Charles reminded her."Oh!" Noelle exclaimed, realizing what he meant. "Hold on a second!"She hurried over to a chair, grabbed her bag, and rummaged through it. Pulling out the documents Cha
This matter was not something that could be resolved in an instant. However, Charles was now certain—based on Nancy's reaction—that she wasn't entirely heartless toward Peter.The next step would be dealing with Henry. If Henry had no objections, Charles had more than enough means to bring Tania back.Ideally, Charles wished Tania would not need to return. But if someone truly intended to use her as a pawn, then her situation was far too dangerous.Apart from her parents, the only person who truly cared for and could protect Tania was Peter."Aunt Nancy, I'll handle this matter thoroughly. You don't need to worry about Tania's safety," Charles assured her. His promise meant Tania would not come to harm.Nancy nodded. "I'll think it over.""There's no rush, Aunt Nancy. Shall we head back now?""Yes, let's. I already told your Uncle Henry I'd stay at Phoenix Tree Residence for a couple of days, and he agreed."Hearing this, Noelle exhaled in relief. She had worried earlier that N
Charles remained silent, and his unreadable gaze was fixed on Simon.After a long pause, Simon was the first to break the silence with a chuckle. "No wonder he's so cautious, carefully planning for years just to counter you. Charles, you truly are a formidable opponent."He stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Should I be grateful that we're not on opposing sides? Otherwise, you'd probably scheme against me as well, wouldn't you?"Charles stood up, slipping his hands into his pockets. "I'll be waiting for your good news.""Charles!" Simon stood up as well. "How can you be so sure I'll cooperate? What if I refuse?""You won't."Their gazes locked in mid-air, and Charles' eyes were filled with unwavering certainty.Simon shrugged. "Alright then.""So, you knew about his identity all along?" Simon asked, genuinely curious about Charles' endgame.Charles' dark eyes glimmered faintly. "I found out not long ago."Had he not been cautious, he might still be unaware of the true motives be
Simon raised an eyebrow and nodded, but his gaze remained on Noelle. She noticed him as well and gave him a slight nod. "Mr. York, it's been a while."Simon's sharp eyes narrowed slightly, carrying a hint of mischief. "Indeed, it has."Sensing a sudden shift in the atmosphere, Simon arched an eyebrow and shot Charles a sidelong glance before chuckling."Come on, Charles. I'm your invited guest, aren't I? The way you're looking at me is making me nervous."Charles merely let out a cold snort. "Mr. York, let's talk privately."With that, the two of them moved to the hospital room next door. Simon quickly realized that the room had been converted into a personal office—or rather, a surveillance hub.He had noticed something off about the hospital's atmosphere the moment he arrived. There were very few patients, and while the place seemed quiet, the entire area was heavily guarded. Charles had his men stationed everywhere, making it nearly impossible for anyone without serious skil
Simon could not help but chuckle at Linda's words.It was only then that Linda seemed to notice his presence. She frowned at this uninvited guest and snapped. "What are you laughing at? Careful, or I'll gouge your eyeballs out!""Tsk, tsk, for someone so young, why are you already so vicious?" Simon shook his head in feigned helplessness, his tone filled with mockery. He even gave Linda a look of exaggerated disdain.Linda had always appreciated good-looking people and admired all things aesthetically pleasing. However, when she saw Simon's overly charming face, something strange happened. She did not swoon like she usually would. Instead, she found him rather annoying.She rested her chin on her hand, scrutinizing Simon with an expression far too mature for her age.Simon also found this young lady amusing. Judging by her actions, she was likely skilled in medicine—probably quite skilled.Otherwise, with how cautious Charles was, he would never have entrusted Noelle's life to a
Elon clenched his fists tightly at Yves' command.This woman was nothing but trouble—Yves' greatest weakness. Elon regretted not killing her years ago when he had the chance.If she had been eliminated back then, none of this would be happening now. Her presence was creating cracks in what had once been a flawless plan.Due to this woman, Yves was now willingly stepping into danger, even engaging with Charles and Steven ahead of schedule. She could not be allowed to stay."Yes, I'll ensure Ms. Anderson's safety," Elon replied.Yves cast him a cold glance before finally leaving the villa.…Meanwhile, after leaving the villa, Simon had the distinct feeling that someone was following him. However, Simon was not just anyone. He might seem carefree on the surface, but in reality, he was the most discreet and unpredictable of the York family's three sons.To outsiders, he appeared to be the least accomplished among the York siblings, but it was precisely this harmless facade that ma
Yves' cold, piercing gaze fell on Kelly. Seeing her aggressive stance, he tightened his grip slightly around her neck.Kelly's eyes widened in disbelief at the pressure, but the next moment, as if something had clicked in her mind, she stopped resisting altogether.She refused to look at him, yet her demeanor made it clear that she was fully prepared for whatever came next.Yves barely increased the pressure, and Kelly's face gradually flushed red. His bloodshot eyes were fixated on her, but she never once looked at him.The grip around her throat grew stronger, and her breathing became more labored. Yet she made no effort to struggle and just lay there as though she had accepted death.Looking at her like this, Yves suddenly felt an overwhelming surge of rage. He let go abruptly, shoving Kelly onto the bed with force."You want to die? I won't let you get your wish. If you're going to die, it'll be with me!" He loomed over her, his voice laced with a chilling finality. "I won't
Yves scrunched his brow. "Go ahead. Ask it.""Who are you, really? Are you Yves or Jacob?"Yves' gaze was sharp as it fell on Kelly. "Everyone who once knew me is gone.""Then tell me. I'm going to be gone soon, too!" Kelly said with a faint smile. "It doesn't really matter if I go now or later. I'd rather you be the one to do it than some nasty virus."Yves' frown deepened. "Kelly, please don't make me do this."His hand was a fist, and anyone who knew Yves could tell he was trying really hard to keep calm.However, Kelly kept smiling at him, not even pausing. There was laughter in her eyes but also a hint of sadness. She stared right at Yves and took a step closer.Her hands lifted, shaky, but she did not stop.Yves watched her closely, and when Kelly reached out, he quickly grabbed her hand. "Once we're done here, I'll let you know."Kelly shook her head. "After I find out, you'll end it, and your secret will be safe with me. But if you don't let me see, you know I'll try t
He stood up and gave Kelly a chilly look. "You think you can just walk out of here? That's not going to happen. Instead of dreaming about escape, you should be thinking about where you'd like to go with me once I've taken care of everything here."Yves reached for the door to leave, but Kelly's voice stopped him.She got up from the bed and stepped down, her bare feet touching the cold floor. She stood a few steps behind Yves, her eyes intensely focused on him. "If I agreed to go with you, would you leave all this behind and take me and Seth away?"Kelly's hands were balled into fists as she spoke. She did not even understand why she was asking that. She stared at Yves's back. He did not turn around and just stood there with his back to her.Kelly could not see his face, but she could read the real reaction in the way he held himself.His hand was still on the doorknob, not letting go. When he heard what Kelly said, he froze, as if her question caught him off guard.Kelly kept he
"Enough! I know that! You don't have to remind me!" Kelly shouted, her voice filled with frustration. "Yves, you don't need to keep bringing up my painful past. Yes, I once loved Charles, but that's all behind me. I have nothing to do with Charles now, and he's my sister's husband. Please stop making such guesses about other people."Kelly's eyes filled with tears as she stared at Yves. "I don't want to see you. Leave now!"She had thought her words were too mean and would make Yves mad. She expected him to storm out, but he did not move. Confused, Kelly noticed his dark eyes were then bright.Yves smiled. Kelly's yelling had somehow made him feel calm. His eyes were warm and kind, so different from the distant look he usually had.Kelly did not get it, but she was glad he was not mad.Yves let go of her and brought over a plate and spoon. "You must be hungry! You haven't eaten since you woke up. Let me feed you!"Kelly turned her head away, but Yves' eyes grew hard. "Eat," he sa
Kelly bit her lip, wondering about Simon's place in the York family. It looked like he and Jacob were not on good terms. If Simon could help her...She suddenly remembered Simon saying something about seeing her again before he knocked her out, didn't he?The door creaked open again, and Yves stepped in, this time holding a tray with utensils. As he set the table, a delicious smell wafted through the room, making Kelly's stomach growl at just the right moment.Feeling her cheeks warm, Kelly quickly turned away.Yves's face was as stern as ever, but if she looked really close, she could catch a tiny smile in his eyes. It was faint, but it was definitely there.He helped Kelly sit up and untied the ropes from her wrists. As soon as she was free, Kelly scooted away from Yves and perched on the edge of the bed.Yves's eyes flickered for a moment, but then he scoffed, "Kelly, you're a smart girl. You know that if I set my mind to something, I can make it happen, right?"Kelly scowled