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Chapter 358
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The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 359
Lisbeth looked a little surprised. "Huh? If that's the case, then I guess there's no problem after all."I shot a knowing look at Soren. He understood and stood. "Mom, Taylor and I are going to visit Grandpa. We'll be back for lunch.""Sure thing."Soleil jumped up cheerfully, ready to follow, but Lisbeth stopped her. "You just saw him this morning! Come back, Sol. You really should learn to be more demure by now!"Soleil pouted and returned to the couch.Soren reached for my hand, but I frowned at him.It wasn't until we left the house that he took my hand and whispered, "Why are you embarrassed? It's just holding hands.""Not in front of your mom!""Why not?"I gave him a teasing look. "Do you know that moms have a special protective instinct toward their sons? They really don't like seeing their boy getting all handsy with his girlfriend."Mothers often fought with their daughters-in-law over this very thing—jealous of seeing their sons "taken away" by someone else. Sore
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 360
We exchanged a glance. Soren tightened his grip as if afraid I might run away and then approached the old man."Grandpa? Good morning! I've come with my girlfriend," he called softly, smiling.William sat up straight, studying us with sharp, shrewd eyes. His face held a commanding presence, the kind that came only with experience."Good morning, sir. I'm Taylor Jones."William smiled. "Your stories precede you, my dear.""I hope they're the favorable kind.""They are. I remember you from more than a decade ago—a little girl with the bravest heart and spirit. You saved Ren's life twice! He's never forgotten you."He pulled the blanket off his lap.Soren quickly moved to help him up."Back then, we came to thank you in person, but we only saw your grandmother," he said, smiling. "I heard you were hiding in your room!"William's memory was impressive, and his mind remained sharp despite his age.I nodded. "You've got a good memory, sir. I saw a few soldiers through the crack in
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 361
My heart skipped a beat, and I instinctively turned to look at Soren."Grandpa, I—" Soren had just started speaking when William interrupted, "I'm trying to have a chat with Miss Jones, young man. Why are you interrupting? What could I possibly do to your lifesaver, hmm?"Although William's tone remained warm, his repeated reference to me as "Miss Jones" made something clear.I had failed his test.What he was trying to say was that, as much as I had saved Soren's life, the facts remained. I was from the Jones family, a family of such lowly status that we could never hope to be on par with or approach the Kenways.He didn't say it outright, but I understood."That's right. My father made some bad business decisions and was sentenced to prison. But he's now appealed for medical parole due to health issues," I answered truthfully since there was no point in hiding it.William nodded. "I heard it was you who turned him in?""Yes, it was."A flicker of appreciation passed throug
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 362
"But that's because he's—"Soren was about to argue, but I quickly tugged on his hand and interrupted, "Your grandfather's right, Soren. You should focus on your career right now, especially since you're your family's heir. You can't let personal feelings interfere with your greater responsibilities."William nodded approvingly. "You're a sensible woman, Miss Jones. It seems Soren has good taste."I forced a bitter smile.Sensible? More like I was forced to say that.But truthfully, I wasn't in a rush to get married, and William's stance actually lifted some pressure off me. In a way, it was a relief.The tension in the air lifted after my words smoothed things over.Soren and I returned to our seats.Just then, someone entered the courtyard—one of William's personal aides, based on their attire and demeanor."Sir, Commander Frieze and Miss Frieze have arrived," he announced.My heart skipped a beat. Commander Frieze? Miss Frieze?Was Candy here? What a coincidence!"Let th
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 363
At the time, I was Edward's girlfriend, yet he completely ignored me.And now, the same thing was happening again.The only question was whether Candy would be as "fortunate" as Maddison and end up marrying the man she admired."I'm fine. Thank you for your concern, Miss Frieze. And thank you for the coat last night," Soren said politely.Candy smiled. "There's no need to thank me, Soren. It's just a piece of clothing."As she spoke, her gaze shifted toward me, her smile carrying a subtle challenge and disdain—something only I could perceive.Last night, I transferred 3,900 dollars to her after adding her to my contacts, but she refused to accept it and sent the money back.Clearly, she viewed her kindness as being for Soren, not for me, and had no interest in accepting my money.After smiling, she turned to greet me. "Taylor, you're here too…"I returned her smile. "Yes, I came to visit Mr. Kenway as well."William looked slightly surprised. "You two know each other?""Tayl
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 364
Conflicts between women were never easy to define, often leaving it unclear who is right and who is wrong.Even someone as shrewd as William chose not to intervene, silently sipping his coffee.Soren turned to look at me, his dark eyes twinkling with amusement.I glanced at him, feeling an inexplicable irritation.Was he actually enjoying this? Did he find it entertaining to watch Candy and me bicker over him?I shouldn't have agreed to be his girlfriend, not when I hadn't known about Candy's ties to his family in the first place!My life was already complicated enough, and now it felt like an even bigger mess.Meanwhile, the two older gentlemen changed the topic, easing the tension and silence between us.Just then, my phone rang.I checked the screen—it was Jamie, likely calling about work.I excused myself and stepped outside to take the call.Jamie went over some details regarding the fashion show, and the conversation lasted about eight minutes.When I hung up and turn
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 365
Soleil paced near the doorway, rushing over as soon as she spotted us."I can't stand Candy! She's so annoying! All she does is suck up to people, and she's really good at it," Soleil blurted, her bluntness evident.I chuckled and glanced at Soren before teasing, "You better get used to it. She might end up being your sister-in-law someday."Before I could finish, Soren raised his hand, curling his fingers as if ready to flick me again.I quickly covered my head. "Nuh-uh! That really hurts!""Then stop talking nonsense!" Soren scolded.I sighed. "It's the truth, though. Look at how much the elders adore her personality."But… I couldn't deny it.It was just like Sally had said. I had everything going for me, except my temper. Maddison, on the other hand, had had a sweet tongue and had known how to flatter people—a skill I lacked entirely.We had a lavish lunch that afternoon.Chef Remy's cooking was impeccable, and he made all the dishes I liked. I was a little touched, think
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 366
"Why compare us with the worst?" Cameron demanded."What else should I do—compare you to the richest people in the world?"Cameron fell silent for a moment. "How could you?"I couldn't linger in the restroom, and I didn't want to be overheard. I coldly replied, "I've already done more than enough by paying for the treatment, so stop pushing your luck. If you keep causing me trouble, I won't pay another cent—even if you beg me."With that, I hung up and walked out.As expected, Soren was waiting outside."You didn't sound too happy on the phone. Was your stepmother bothering you again?" he asked."Mm-hmm, she's complaining about the hospital conditions." I didn't hide it from him this time.Then, I made one thing clear. "You're not allowed to help them. I know it's easy for you, but don't do it."He looked at me warmly and replied, "You think too highly of me. I'm already kind enough not to kick those who bullied you while they're down. There's no way I'm helping them."His
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The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 468
Before I could respond, Jean asked, "Don't you think this is a bit unfair to your son? His father's still alive, yet he'll never get to know him.""I didn't say he won't ever see his dad. I just… don't want it to happen now," I muttered.I was afraid Soren would fight for custody. I thought it might be better to wait until Silas was old enough to make his own informed decisions. Then, if I had to, I'd let them meet."But this is when a son needs his dad the most! A father missing out on his child's early years will be something both of them regret deeply," Jean said gently.Her words echoed in my head. Thoughts spun out of control. I just wanted the conversation to end."I… I'll think about it. You should get some rest, too. Tomorrow we're going on an excursion!"-Jean stayed for four days before flying off to her next destination. Her family had been pressuring her to find a boyfriend for the past two years, and she'd spent every major festival, including Brigidlia, abroad jus
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 467
Soren had no idea whether I was still single or how I was faring. Just in case he ever needed to escape the confines his family had imposed on him and rescue me from my misery, he had chosen to remain single himself.The thought of hearing about me after he married must fill him with dread. If I was still alone, he wanted to be my partner again. He longed to be with me, but his family had ensnared him.My son had finished his bath. I rocked him to sleep before returning to the living room.Jean was gazing at the night view from the balcony. She turned to me. "I'm surprised people here celebrate Brigidlia too.""There are people who share our ethnicity and culture everywhere. A festival helps them feel connected.""So, is my boy asleep?" she asked."Mm-hmm. I don't let him nap too much during the day so he can sleep early at night. Then I can get some time to myself."She stared at me for a few seconds. "You're a goddamn superwoman, aren't you? Raising a kid on your own and still
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 466
I had dreamed of Soren several times over the past two years.Each time, he would see how difficult it had been to raise the child alone and strangle me, shouting, "I told you, didn't I? If I hear any news about your life being anything less than perfect, I'll drag you back here, whether you want it or not!"I would wake up with a start, muttering bitterly, "Why is this just a dream?"I missed Soren.Sometimes, I daydreamed about his reaction to seeing his own son. Other times, I imagined us getting back together and living as a real, happy family.That would be so great.Jean nodded. "I think so too! Do you know he's still single? I don't think he's let go of you yet.""That's impossible. Maybe he doesn't want a romantic relationship at all."She shook her head. "I heard that his grandfather's condition has worsened. He probably doesn't have long. And yet Soren still ignores his command to marry.""His grandfather is sick again?""What do you mean again? He's old and sick. I
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 465
I watched the city shrink below me before it blurred into nothingness.A young girl sitting next to me noticed and silently passed me a packet of tissues.I thanked her and tried to bury the emotions stirring inside me, doing my best to stifle the pain.The long flight was exhausting.I finally fell asleep, leaving the pain behind as I drifted into the waking hours.-Two years later, Jean arrived in Loegria to see her godson.I picked her up at the airport with him in tow.I spotted her from a distance and waved excitedly.Silas Jones, in his pram, waved back, babbling, "Jea-Jea! Jea-Jea!"By then, Silas was 15 months old. He could walk well but still hadn't learned to speak much.Jean hurried toward us, dragging her suitcase. "I'm finally here! The plane was delayed! I hope you weren't too worried…"I wrapped her in a tight embrace. "I'm fine! I saw the delay on the FIDS board. I wasn't in a rush, so I decided to wait."Jean looked down at Silas, scanning him from head t
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 464
After calming myself, I finally drove home.When I arrived, Amanda was surprised. "Hey, I thought you left before I did! When I didn't see you, I thought you went out to eat with Jean."I shook my head. "Nah. There was a traffic jam."I'd packed my personal belongings from my office into a box.Amanda looked at me closely and asked, "Hey, are you okay? I know how much you invested in this brand. It took a lot to get here. It must hurt to sell it now.""I'm a little sad, but it is what it is. I don't feel too bad about it.""Well, you don't sound too upbeat."I sank onto the couch, suddenly feeling exhausted. "He called me while I was on my way back.""He? You mean Soren?""Yeah.""What did he say? Did he want you to get back together?" Her gaze fell to my abdomen. "Did he find out about the pregnancy?"I shook my head. "No. I sold the company and returned his money. He called to ask where the money came from.""He suspected something, didn't he?""Suspected? He knew. He st
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 463
Soren finally asked, hesitantly, "Is that really the reason?"Oh, he believed me."Of course. What else?" I retorted.I was grateful this conversation was happening over the phone. If it had been face-to-face, I would've fallen apart in panic."I thought you were doing this to avoid me," he said, his tone cold.My heart skipped a beat, but I feigned calmness. "Don't overthink it. We've been broken up for a while now. If I wanted to avoid you, I would've done so long ago."He fell silent again. I knew it was time to hang up. The longer I spoke, the more openings he would find.Just as I was about to say goodbye, he asked, "You've moved?"He'd been trying to find me recently!Panic surged through me, and I tightened my grip on the steering wheel. "Yeah. Just recently.""To avoid me?""No! My college friend Amanda is staying in Metropolis now. Do you remember her? She was there during the centennial too. She even sat in your car—""I know who she is," he interrupted. "I rememb
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 462
Jean was efficient. She convinced her family to buy the Edwardian Taylor in record time. When the news broke, my colleagues were alarmed, thinking something bad had happened.I sent out a notice telling everyone not to panic. No one would be fired after the change of ownership. I also told them to keep the news under wraps.I worried that Soren was still watching my business and me. Maybe he'd notice something was off.The acquisition process went smoothly. I lowballed my company's price as a quiet thank-you for all the help I'd received along the way.Jean's father signed the contract and paid me immediately.Seeing the sudden swell in my bank account was dizzying. This company represented years of effort, bearing witness to my first relationship and even my civil partnership.And now, it was sold. The man who had started this with me was in prison, while I was preparing to leave.Everything is impermanent.I took some time to collect myself before paying off the remaining deb
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 461
"Cause' I miss you?" I replied.We went to the Oriole. Amanda and I had been there once before—back when we met Candy and tricked her into paying for our food.This time, I swapped wine for a fruit punch and thanked Amanda for coming. While we waited for our food, I got straight to the point.Amanda looked stunned. "Is… today supposed to be April first?"I laughed. "Ha! No. This isn't a joke. I'm going to sell the company and make you my COO. If you agree, then Jeannie will be your boss, not me."Jamie's contract hadn't matured yet, so he was still the manager instead of the COO. That's why I had so much work—covering that empty position, too.Amanda stared at me, confused. "But… why? Why sell your company? Are you… in trouble?""No, it's because…" I trailed off, unsure if anyone might be listening.I leaned in and whispered in her ear instead.Amanda blinked, clearly bewildered. She looked at my abdomen. "Soren's?!"I nodded."Oh my god. Are you sure you're not the main cha
The Richest Man in Metropolis is My Backer! Chapter 460
I had been pretty worried about what to eat for lunch, but Jean's question solved the problem. I was craving food from the Oriole!"My usual favorites. If you'd be so kind, hee hee.""I'll get the cook on it.""Aww, you're the best, Jeannie," I cooed.Unfortunately, Jean saw through me. "Hmph! Flattery won't get you anywhere, lady! You're still going to get an earful when I get there!"Cherry returned from walking Bullet and asked what I wanted for lunch. I told her Jean was on her way with a feast."Oh! Should I return to the office now?""Nah. Stay and enjoy lunch with me first, at least!"Jean arrived a little after 11:00 p.m. with the Oriole's finest.As I lunged at the food, Jean asked, "You're not showing morning sickness yet, huh?""Nah. My pregnancy is still early. I'm fine." I was planning to use my relatively good appetite now to indulge and store energy for my little one.It was this thought that made me realize I still wanted to keep the baby."Jeannie, I want t
