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Chapter 528
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The Guardian's Return Chapter 529
Ganter was tired. He had seen through Stephen, so he held no expectations for the man. Calling Simon was also just to inform him of his departure. He said, “Alright. We need to catch our flights now.”After that, he hung up. Simon’s expression was grim. How exactly was Stephen managing Hill City? How could Stephen allow armed home robberies to happen and even leave someone permanently disabled? If the news spread, even if Stephen were his son, the federal government would reprimand him. Just as he wanted to call Stephen for an explanation, Stephen’s phone call came in. Simon answered, and Stephen immediately said, “Dad, I have something to discuss with you.”“Hold on,” Simon said seriously, “I need to ask you something. Let me get to the bottom of this.”Stephen immediately sensed trouble. He noticed that his father’s tone did not sound pleasant. “Do you know that Austin is crippled?”“What?” Stephen was stunned. “What happened?”Austin could be considered his lifesave
The Guardian's Return Chapter 530
Now that he was strapped for cash, he could use those factories to his advantage. Once Hill City’s economy improved, he could eliminate these factories. There were no problems with the process, and it would only benefit him. At that thought, Stephen immediately sprang into action, successfully gaining over 10 billion dollars from the factories. After getting the money, Stephen could finally fulfill his promises to increase the welfare in Hill City and set up a subsidy program. Although the welfare improvements were not substantial and did not cover the entire Riveria, Stephen felt that others could not simply criticize him as he had taken action. Two days later, thanks to Simon’s efforts, the federal government gave Stephen another five billion dollars, enabling him to expand his subsidy program further.Stephen gave the reporters a call. Having done so many good deeds, he had to spread his name!With the news report and videos posted, Stephen’s name once again went viral onlin
The Guardian's Return Chapter 531
Upon hearing that question, Charles looked up at Nolan beside him. The fact that he could become Stephen’s assistant meant he was not stupid. It was just a question, and with Nolan standing at the side, he knew Nolan might be trying to help him. “Because I didn’t have any money,” Charles answered honestly. “My mother was always ill. We could still manage with the subsidy and health insurance, but after losing both of them, my dad fell sick as well. We didn’t have a penny left. Out of desperation, I ended up going down the wrong path.”He looked at the camera. “Don’t be like me who has ended up with a shattered family and ruined life.”The netizens immediately burst into laughter. “Hahaha. You deserved it! Die!”“Good riddance. This is karma!”“Why did you end up with a shattered family, I wonder?”Some mocked Charles, while some made sarcastic comments. They felt Charles deserved everything he got and it was just his punishment. The reporter asked, “Why was the subsidy and
The Guardian's Return Chapter 532
Ethan living in Drakthorn Ridge would only benefit people like them. If the public hoped for Ethan’s return, it would mean the end of the world for them. “Because Stephen coveted his achievements and wanted to replace him, the Quinns imprisoned him and stole the fruits of his labor.”Here was another shocking revelation!The audience’s mind went blank, and they struggled to process everything. In just over ten minutes, Stephen’s image was changing in their minds. At first, Stephen was a good man by starting subsidy programs in Hill City and increasing welfare. Then, he turned out to be evil, resorting to unscrupulous means for money and even working with unethical factories. However, the subsidy programs and welfare improvements he established were real. Yet now? Stephen was unforgivable for stealing someone else’s achievement and using his family's influence to lock them up. The other person had done far better than Stephen, but Stephen had ruined everything. It was as if he
The Guardian's Return Chapter 533
The viewers suddenly felt like Charles was a much greater person, and for a moment, they even thought Charles could be called a “hero.” It was absurd to think that Stephen’s actions were so outrageous that Charles, despite his crimes and illegal actions, seemed like a hero compared to him!“Although I want to convince myself that it’s all fake, Charles is Stephen’s assistant. He definitely knows more than us. Besides, Stephen is someone who could be having a nap while his team is rescuing hostages.”“Could this be fake? Someone has proven the subsidy and medical insurance issue, and the factory owners have testified. Stephen has also made tons of foolish decisions in the past!”“It’s such a pity about Charles. If he succeeded, he might change the fates of countless people.”Most of the viewers had a massive shift in their impression of Charles. They understood that Charles became like that because Stephen forced him into a corner. Hence, the root of the problem still lay with Steph
The Guardian's Return Chapter 534
Stephen started to panic. What should he do now?Just when things could not get any worse, another major event rocked the city. The famous psychologist, Dr. Ganter Steel had decided to retire, stating that he would no longer treat patients and donate eighty percent of his assets to charity, helping the people in need in Hill City. The news quickly attracted public attention. Only then did the people know that Ganter had been in Hill City for a while, and his beloved mentee had become disabled. Now, he was announcing his retirement. “What did Dr. Steel and Austin experience in Hill City?”“It must have something to do with Stephen!”“Stephen is really something else, driving a legend like Dr. Steel into retirement.”Everyone speculated that Ganter’s retirement and Austin’s disability had something to do with Stephen. Reporters rushed to interview Ganter, starting with a very direct question. “Dr. Steel, was your decision to retire and Austin’s disability related to Stephen?”
The Guardian's Return Chapter 535
Everyone thought it was one way to handle the issue. Simon continued, “As for the deceased’s families, Stephen has made the necessary arrangements. As long as their families speak up, the problem will be solved.”The others nodded. “We can do that. But with Stephen’s current situation, he’s no longer suited to stay at Hill City. The people of Hill City are utterly disappointed in him.”Simon sighed. “I know.”Another city’s economy had collapsed under Stephen’s leadership. He quickly contacted Stephen and told him the meeting’s outcome, finally warning him that he had to get rid of Charles. The man knew too much. “He can’t be allowed to live. He must die.” After hanging up, Simon thought of Ethan but soon shook his head. Ethan had managed to increase Riveria’s GDP to 15 trillion in three years and was the Grand Marshal’s only mentee. It would not be wise to touch him. In fact, letting Ethan live for the moment might prove useful in the future. What Simon did not know was
The Guardian's Return Chapter 536
Upon learning of Charles’ death, Stephen felt a little upset, but at the same time, it was as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Stephen returned to his room and began to pack his belongings. It was almost time to leave Hill City, and he felt an inexplicable sense of reluctance. Everything he had experienced in Hill City constantly flashed across his mind. The former mayor Julius, Nico, Tommy, Jeremy… It all felt like it had all happened yesterday, but it was also like a distant memory. Although his time in Hill City had been relatively short, it felt like he had been there for years. At this moment, Nolan came. He was the happiest when he learned that Stephen was leaving. “Do you really have to leave?” Nolan acted as if he was reluctant to part. Stephen nodded. “It’s the headquarters’ decision. I must leave. From now on, Hill City is in your hands.” He looked at Nolan seriously. “You must be careful. Hill City is not quite peaceful now, especially with the hidden
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The Guardian's Return Chapter 796
Stephen immediately opened his eyes, but there was no one beside him.“Stephen, I wish you an early happy birthday too!” Lily’s voice rang out from his other side.Stephen turned his head and saw Lily lying beside him, smiling sweetly.Then, he looked toward where Snow’s voice had come from. Snow was also lying beside him, looking at him with gentle eyes.Stephen knew in his heart that it was just an illusion.“Aren’t you making a wish?”“What’s your wish?”Stephen closed his eyes again. At that moment, a thousand thoughts rushed through his mind.Who was he?He was the heir of the Quinns. From the moment he was born, he held a position that countless people envied.However, out of a million possible paths, not one was truly his own.He could not be with his loved ones. He could not achieve success overnight. He was not admired by all or surrounded by family and friends.Stephen thought that at least one of those fates belonged to him and her.However, their final meeting
The Guardian's Return Chapter 795
Stephen would be lighting the first segment, and Simon would light the final one.As the celebrities arrived, the riverside became even more lively. People called out their favorite celebrity’s names or nicknames.Seeing this, Stephen felt emotional. If he had not made mistakes, perhaps these people would be calling his name too.When it was nearly midnight, Simon approached Stephen and said, “It’s about time. Get ready to light the fireworks.”He pulled Stephen over to the spot where the fireworks he was responsible for were, and a staff member handed him a torch.“When the countdown ends, use the torch to ignite the fuse, then run and pass the torch to the next person, who will continue lighting the fireworks.“Good luck,” Simon encouraged him. “You can do it!”Stephen took the torch and sighed inwardly. He felt like this whole thing was meaningless. However, when the countdown began, he started to feel a little nervous.“Ten! Nine!”Stephen instinctively tightened his grip
The Guardian's Return Chapter 794
After Simon’s livestream, everyone felt slightly more reassured about Breeze City’s situation.“If he dares to guarantee this, he must have prepared thoroughly.”“It should be safe to attend the gala, right?”“My favorite celebrity will be there, and right now, Breeze City has 40% off train fares, 20% off flight tickets, and 50% off tour packages. It’s so tempting.”Simon placed all his hopes on this gala. He was willing to pour money into it to ensure its success.The event venue was fully set up three days before the new year. The tickets were completely sold out, and the city’s visitor count was now dozens of times higher than before!Breeze City’s declining economy finally showed signs of rising!Simon’s eyes nearly welled up when he saw the financial reports.Two days before the gala, the celebrities attending the event started arriving and followed Simon’s instructions to interact with fans so that more tourists would be attracted to come and spend.Even some celebrities
The Guardian's Return Chapter 793
During this past week, Simon worked without stopping. He spent most of his rest time either in his office or sleeping in cars or planes.He got less than five hours of rest every day!However, thanks to his efforts, Breeze City improved significantly. Its economy stabilized, goods prices returned to normal, robbery incidents decreased, and dangerous elements were eliminated. Furthermore, seventeen new factories were also established in the city.Everything was moving in a positive direction, but Simon’s lack of rest was just one of the consequences. Every day, the Quinns were spending money. In just a week, another 300 million had been spent.Harrison called him again and told him to spend more cautiously. Although the Quinn family had a lot of money, it was not infinite.Furthermore, most of their wealth was not in liquid cash. The actual funds they could use at any time were only a few tens of billions.The South Regent and Victor observed Simon’s actions and felt slightly amaz
The Guardian's Return Chapter 792
Without Ethan’s support, what had Breeze City become? It was somewhere people struggled to survive.What happened to Stephen? His hair turned white overnight, and he grew depressed like a soulless walking corpse.All of this was the result of their wrong decisions.Simon stared at the scattered documents on the ground and let out a long sigh. He felt a heavy weight on his shoulders. He had hoped to use Ethan’s past methods to turn things around, but in the end, he only ended up harming himself.Just then, his phone rang. He glanced at the screen and saw that it was a call from Harrison.As soon as he picked it up, Harrison said, “Something’s happened to Stephen again. He went out with his friends but coughed up blood at a riddle booth. The doctor said his condition is serious.”After a brief pause, he continued, “His will to live is extremely low.”“What?” Simon was stunned. He had sent Stephen back in hopes that his friends could help him recover. However, things had gotten wor
The Guardian's Return Chapter 791
Everyone watched as Simon made a solemn promise. Coupled with his offer of 300 million dollars to restore Breeze City, their anger somewhat subsided.“Maybe Stephen really was framed.”“Should we trust him again?”“At this point, let’s just trust him one last time.”After a brief discussion, they decided to believe Simon once more.Simon sighed in relief and quickly said, “Thank you, everyone!”Although the 300 million dollars and his final guarantee were not a big deal to him, it was still a disgrace to the Quinn family’s reputation.Simon knew that from now on, he had to devote himself to protecting Breeze City and ensure that it would never fall into chaos again. Otherwise, he would have no more excuses, and no one would trust him anymore.Back in his office, he had a subordinate retrieve Breeze City’s development plans and important decision-making documents from the past three years.Back then, Ethan had been in charge of the city. Simon planned to study Ethan’s methods a
The Guardian's Return Chapter 790
They answered, “We have other business here. There’s a rather special patient we need to attend to. Goodbye.”They did not want to share more with Simon as the special patient they were referring to was Hugo. Hugo was shot in the stomach and sent to the hospital for emergency treatment by the South Regent’s subordinates. Those two doctors received orders to save Hugo, who was recovering well and would be discharged in a few days. Watching the two doctors walk away, Simon frowned. He felt as if they were hiding something from him. At that moment, he was still unaware that Hugo and Natalie had both survived. If he knew, one phone call to Stephen would be enough to improve his condition significantly. Simon took his medicine and left the hospital. Just after he returned to his office, a staff member hurried in. “Bad news. Someone is protesting at the entrance. They’re accusing us of covering up for Stephen!”Simon felt a headache coming. The issue with Stephen’s company producin
The Guardian's Return Chapter 789
“The boiling point of vinegar… Snow told me before she left. As for the tears flowing backward, I understood it when I stood alone on the edge of a cliff after Lily died. As for the negative one-twelfth, it was the question those criminals asked me before detonating the bomb. I got it wrong.”Everyone was stunned, especially Stephen’s friends. When Stephen gave the correct answer, they cheered, but now, they realized that each answer came at an unforgettable and agonizing cost. Snow was missing, Lily was dead, and Hugo had turned against him because of the detonated bomb, only to sacrifice himself in the end for him. They finally understood why Stephen had coughed up blood. “Stephen…”His friends felt a heavy weight in their chests suffocating them. They could not imagine this would become of an arrogant young man like Stephen.Harrison also fell silent for a while. He understood that everything his grandson had experienced was far worse than what he or Simon had in their life
The Guardian's Return Chapter 788
The vendor’s face paled in fright. “I just wanted to stump you, not kill you! Just take the prize!”He quickly took down the grand, first, runner-up, and second runner-up prizes, handing all of them to Stephen. However, Stephen’s body convulsed. The memories he had suppressed came flooding back, one more intense than the other. Stephen clutched his chest as blood trickled from the corner of his mouth. His legs had gone weak. “He pushed himself this far just to answer a few questions?”“What sort of questions are these? They made someone cough up blood.”“This is unreal. If I hadn’t seen it myself, I wouldn’t have believed something like this.”“I’m starting to believe those dramatic effects in TV shows. Perhaps it’s true that someone could die while playing chess!”Stephen’s friends were now panicking. “Stephen, what’s wrong? Stephen!”“Don’t scare us!”“Ambulance! Call the ambulance!”Stephen had been doing well just moments ago. When he left the carousel, he even reveal
