Barry was stunned, observing their inexplicable compatibility. Having been with Landon for years, Barry had never witnessed the latter showing interest in anyone.Aria was devoid of softness and gentleness, possessing only a captivating smile. She showed no fear toward Landon, even teasing him about his nickname. Aria likely hadn't seen Landon's ruthless side—when his hands were covered with blood. When Landon dealt with people, his subordinates would always feel afraid. Yet, he was also known for his fairness and rationality, dispensing punishment or reward with justification. Despite this, nobody dared to approach him closely.Considering Landon's apparent fatigue, Aria didn't insist they stay for dinner. Instead, she prepared bagels and medicine for him to take home."These bagels have a special herb blend I use for added flavor," she explained, her voice adopting a professional lilt that mirrored a doctor's bedside manner. "I also wrote down some dietary restrictions you sho
"What is it?" Landon asked her, his noble and aloof demeanor highlighted by the bracelet on his wrist. Yet, it contrasted with his well-tailored suit.Aria reached out and touched his diamond cufflinks. Then, she smiled seductively. "Can I take a bite?"She had never made such requests before.Whenever she experienced symptoms of her intermittent explosive disorder, she would endure it and rinse her head with cold water. But for some reason, she wanted to use her teeth to check if his neck was actually as cold as it seemed.Normally, Landon would reject such a request. This time, he chuckled and asked, "Where do you want to bite?""Your neck," she breathed, her tongue nervously darting across her lips. Landon circled her waist and lifted her. "It'll be easier for you to bite from this height.""You're right." Aria didn't concern herself with how intimate their posture appeared, especially in such a confined space, with him pinning her against the wall and whispering to her.Ho
Aria glanced at the marks on his neck and smiled. "I told you that it would cover your medical bills. What responsibility do I need to assume?""I can pay," Landon's voice sounded a bit hoarse, perhaps due to the wind. His breath brushed against the side of her ear as he chuckled. "If you assume responsibility, you can bite whenever you want."Aria felt slightly moved. Her long, glossy hair cascaded down her back, and her eyes held a hint of detachment. "I'll consider it.""Please do. Not only do you need a boyfriend, but my family is also pressuring me to get a partner." Landon smiled.Aria raised her eyebrows. "Then why are you calling off the engagement?"She didn't forget what she heard in the hospital.Landon's voice was clear, his tone gentle. "I have the right to choose my bride. Besides, with this body of mine, do you want to make the woman I marry a widow?""That's a valid point." Aria gave a solemn nod. Landon smiled helplessly. "Anyway, I didn't expect you to answer
Landon didn't like how Aria always excluded him. She had done this with Heartbound Hall's investment and his gift. It felt like she always wanted to keep everything clear between them.People perceived Landon as aloof and distant, but they hadn't met Aria. Despite her polite demeanor, she projected a coldness that made it difficult to get close to her.Landon's fingers brushed against his bracelet. Though his expression remained impassive, his eyes darkened.Aria noticed that and didn't persist in rejecting his gift. "No, I'll accept it."She looked down at her new waist chain with a smile. "It suits me well."Landon muttered a reply, feeling less suffocated than before. The indifference in his eyes gradually dissipated as he stared at the amethyst pendant dangling on her waist. The contrast against her fair skin was even more striking that way.He involuntarily tightened his grip.Aria raised her head curiously. "What is it?""No, it's nothing. Shall we go?" He released his gr
Despite his materialistic leanings, Solo was more inclined to believe in the unknown than dismiss it entirely. His primary concern, however, was why Landon had given Aria the amethyst pendant. It didn't make any sense to him.However, Solo didn't dare to ask. Barry, on the other hand, was more audacious. "Boss, she figured out that I'm your subordinate," he revealed.Landon paced thoughtfully and chuckled at the thought of Aria's sharp mind. "No surprise there. She's always been more perceptive than most."Barry breathed a sigh of relief before expressing his loyalty. "Don't worry. I won't breathe a word about your secret to Mr. York Senior."Landon glanced at his fingers and said, "Secret? What secret do I have?"Barry thought that Landon didn't trust him, so he blurted out everything he knew. "Dr. Genius told me that you two are in a fake relationship to fulfill her grandmother's wish."Solo was confused by what was going on.Landon stopped walking, his hands dropping to his s
Back at Heartbound Hall, Aria continued to fiddle with the amethyst pendant she got from Landon. She felt a bit off today. Not only had she experienced an episode of her intermittent explosive disorder, but she had also encountered a familiar amethyst pendant. In her memories, the amethyst pendant should have been hers. Yet, it belonged to Landon. Her memories were in disarray. She pinched the bridge of her nose, trying to piece together the fragmented images.She could recall bits and pieces, but most of her memories were still jumbled and incomplete.Patience was needed, she decided, as she reattached the pendant. Then, she traced her lips, pondering the unusual effect Landon's blood had on her. Her medical expertise, honed by self-treatment with both conventional and unconventional remedies, including cultivating the potent Whisperwind Herb, should have rendered her immune to most poisons by now. Perhaps there was something more than poison in his body.Aria drummed her f
Landon was indeed not wearing designer clothing. Instead, he was wearing a custom-made suit by a renowned Nobeetan designer.Apart from the royal family, other people wouldn't even have the chance to wear haute couture clothing by that designer. However, the York family was always an exception, though.There was no way people like Karen would know something as secretive as that.Although the Layne family held influence in Janovin, Karen did not share that power.The Layne family in Janovin wouldn't even bother about Karen. However, Karen did reach out to them after Lily started studying there. After all, Karen had to gain influence in Southbury to mingle with the higher class.Marshall was a bit annoyed. "Why must you fight with that brat? She has already left and is now staying with Georgina. At least they have a small business to sustain themselves."Karen sneered and opened the livestream. "A small business? Have you ever seen a small business earning half a million a day?"M
"I'm from the Short family," Christian said proudly. It was as if he could do anything he wanted just because of his family.The staff furrowed his eyebrows. "I'm sorry, sir. The Chamber of Commerce will be welcoming an important guest today. We didn't invite any doctors, so I'll need your cooperation to leave with your partner."Christian had never been so embarrassed before. "I…"The staff seemed to have received an order. He pressed his Bluetooth earphone and replied, "Yes, I'm at the door. Mr. York is already here? Okay. I'll go there right now!"Lily's eyes sparkled at the news. This might be her opportunity to meet the man she missed seeing last time. Fuming from the previous exchange, Christian didn't register her excitement until she said, "Christian, I don't want to take photos anymore. Let's head out to the front."Christian's mood improved. "Okay."Lily muttered, "Don't take it to heart. They're just unimportant staff members.""I know that. Let's go." Christian cou
No matter the cost, Soreta was willing to grant any authority to someone who accepted it. At first, Soreta hadn't thought this way. She had always considered the Farshyans to be naïve and foolish, much like the portrayal on TV. It wasn't until she met them that she realized they were among the world's most astute investors. Farshya was definitely not to be underestimated. Soreta could no longer look down on them as she once did. This was why she treated Lily with such politeness and respect.However, Lily thought it was her own achievements that had impressed Soreta, which only inflated her pride. She began speaking loudly, reveling in the attention of the crowd. In truth, Lily wasn't entirely confident when Soreta discussed her investment plans. She barely understood the book Georgina had given her. While Lily could foresee major events, it was only because of her memories from a past life. She had no grasp of the details or any business strategies.Still, Lily was confident t
At this moment, Lily's vanity was gratified like never before. She raised her glass, clinking it with the lady's. "There are many incredible things in Farshya, such as our Five Elements and Eight Trigrams. If you're interested, I'd be happy to explain them to you anytime.""You're so knowledgeable, Lily. I've heard of your talents—saving critically ill patients, fortune telling… Am I right? I'm fascinated by how you can predict what will happen to someone. Even in the grand scheme of things, it's incredible. Do you perhaps have a witch in your family?"Foreigners were often more inclined to believe in witches and spells. The King of Nobeeta was a firm believer, and so was the woman before her.The key was, who wouldn't believe in the power that theology brought? It was something that could make people a fortune."Now that we have you, our project is bound to succeed. Mr. Wagner has truly found a gem this time."The lady, Soreta Barclay, was referring to Kenny. Unlike Lily, he kept
"I'll ask Boss if she needs a bellboy!"Harry hadn't changed a bit. With his flashy gold chains and oversized watch, he was always quick to jump at any opportunity to make money. If Aria invited him to meet other businessmen, he'd be on board without hesitation.Everyone who did business with Aria shared a common trait—they would get addicted. Every entrepreneur dreamed of growth. The longer they toil in the market, the stronger their desire to expand. It was a universal truth among business leaders.For these dreamers, an investor like Aria was a godsend. She thrived on improvement, making her an ideal partner.Harry, as enthusiastic as ever, bombarded Aria with messages. Aria had planned to visit Ludwiten before, but things kept happening, delaying her trip. Her frequent nightmares and the unresolved tension between her mother and uncles weighed on her mind. Now, with Barron leaving some important items for her in Ludwiten, she had no choice but to go. Sneaking there was neve
"Honestly, you shouldn't let Boss go to Ludwiten. If she insists on going, at least send me along! It's not as if you're unaware of how messy their business circle can be. This isn't Janovin we're talking about!"Harry's voice rang loud and clear as he slammed his palm on the CEO's desk, a bold move no one else at Grand Construction Corp would dare attempt. The employees outside exchanged curious glances, whispering among themselves. What could have dragged Harry back from his vacation in such a state?Harry was worried. "We have plenty of employees. How could you let a lady like her go over there by herself? What if she gets harassed? At least here, our influence can protect her. People would think twice once they know who she is. Stop sipping that coffee and answer me already!"Tavian Montague, the vice-CEO, sighed and powered off his computer. He removed his glasses, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Harry, calm down. Do you really think Aria got this far on luck? Don't let her lo
The eight figures sat together, ostensibly discussing Aria's arrival. In truth, their agenda was far less noble—they were determined to keep the items they had long appropriated, refusing to return what rightfully belonged to others. After holding onto these possessions for so long, they had convinced themselves they were entitled to them.Their plan was to maintain a façade of respect toward the Carver family to avoid public scrutiny. However, they were equally resolute in protecting their own interests. They intended to demonstrate the influence of Ludwiten's business elite on Aria. It would be much better if she could be persuaded to invest billions in their ventures.It was a strategy they'd employed before, notably with Owen, and found it amusing.Yet Percy, despite his youth, was not so easily deceived. His calm demeanor and precise legal arguments left little room for manipulation. The Carver family's resilience, after all, stemmed largely from their grandchildren.Sti
Tobias once said that Aria was the most gifted person in the Decatorian way. Yet, for all her supposed talent, she couldn't use the Emperor Coins just by casually throwing them on her first attempt. She had to study them before she could wield them effectively.Thankfully, Leon chose the entertainment industry. If he had chosen to be inducted in the Decatorian way, the disciples of Mount Dracotigris would have been disheartened. "Leon, have you ever considered going into another industry?" Aria asked. Leon shook his head, a rebellious smirk on his face. "Aria, look at me. This face was born to be a celebrity. It'd be a crime to waste it."Aria sighed, accustomed to his narcissism. It was hard to argue—Leon's rebellious charm and striking looks had won over both women and men. Yet, his popularity brought challenges of its own."I still have Emperor Coins with me," Aria said, pulling out a beaded bracelet adorned with the coins and securing it around Leon's wrist. "Take it. For yo
Warren's eyes reddened as he gazed at Fergus, the grandson he had once hoped to raise personally. In that moment, he felt his life had been worthwhile. As one grew older, they came to understand a fundamental truth—if their descendants could grasp their thoughts, rather than dismissing the ways of the past as irrelevant, it was something to celebrate. Warren could now pass on everything to his grandchildren, finally feeling worthy within the Carver family.…Meanwhile, Leon furrowed his brows in the second-floor bedroom. "What are they talking about?""It's probably about Ludwiten. They have some business to settle. Why?" Aria had intentionally given Fergus and Warren some time to talk. As for her, she stayed with Leon in his room, playing games and snacking.When she heard his question, she smiled. "Are you interested as well, Leon?""I'm not cut out for business." Leon couldn't sit still and kept pacing back and forth. His silver hair, falling perfectly, made him look like a
That night, Warren stood before the memorial hall and spoke to his ancestors."Aria will be returning to Ludwiten tonight. Things will be different this time. There will be many obstacles ahead of her, but we must return eventually. Aria will finish what I couldn't. Please protect her."The Carver family was forced to shift their business from Ludwiten to Janovin at the time. And back then, they believed they could return at any moment. Yet, over 70 years had passed since then.Both Warren and Stephen were sentimental individuals, always hoping to return to Ludwiten. However, circumstances had shifted over the years. Moreover, the business landscape in Ludwiten had grown increasingly complex, with rising foreign investments. Their commitments in Janovin, especially after Owen married Fiona, kept them from returning.Warren had expected Owen to stay in Ludwiten, as he had promised the Grisham family. But Owen broke that promise.Warren's greatest wish had always been to return to
Although the crow was unsure of its owner's thoughts, it was indeed afraid of the dagger made out of Oracle bones.In fact, it wasn't made of ordinary animal bones. It was from the Oracle, one of the Four Perils. Most importantly, it carried spiritual energy from heaven and earth.Back then, the crow didn't expect the insignificant sect, which was consistently at the bottom of each tournament, to have the purest spiritual energy. Plus, all of their members were not to be underestimated. The crow would have never believed it if it hadn't come to live in the mountains with Landon. After all, Landon was bewitched to become the woman's boy toy. He stayed behind only because he liked the sect's spiritual energy. At that, the crow shifted its body and didn't continue to disturb Landon. Since Landon mentioned he needed the knife sheath, the crow would go and get it. Apart from the curved dagger in the wooden box, there was also a somewhat inconspicuous emerald and a turtle shell-lik