Jade stole glances at Evan, admiring his handsome appearance. She nudged Gregory, who was devouring his meal, and said, "Greg, this man looks good and well-dressed. He seems wealthy! The daughter of my distant cousin's nephew, who lives in my younger sister's house at the village entrance, has high standards for men. She'll surely like someone like him!"Gregory struggled to grasp the complex family connections for a moment before replying, "Oh, that one! Certainly!"Excitedly, Jade declared, "I'm going over to talk to him!"She stood up, walked over to his table, and pulled up a chair. "Hello there, handsome. Are you married?"Evan furrowed his brow and glanced at Caroline, his face darkening when he noticed her lack of reaction.In contrast, Alex seemed intrigued. "Ma'am, he's single but has a child."Jade looked concerned and asked, "So, he's divorced with a child? That can be complicated. How old is the child?"Alex replied promptly, "Five.""Five years old? That might be a
"Evan, she's right about second-hand men not being in high demand. Hahaha!" Alex's laughter distorted his expression."Shut up!" Evan scolded him softly.Meanwhile, the waiter approached Alex and said, "Sir, your children's meal is ready."Alex contained his laughter. "Please place it here."The waiter nodded and served it to Alex.Jade looked at Alex disdainfully, then turned to Evan and said, "Since you share the same opinion, give me your address. I'll visit after talking to the village's prettiest girl!"Evan smirked and turned to the waiter who lingered nearby. "Could you get me a pen and paper, please?"The waiter retrieved a pen and notepad from his apron pocket.Evan jotted down an address and handed the paper to Jade. "Come and meet me this afternoon. This is where I live."Jade carefully pocketed the paper. "Sure thing, handsome. I won't interrupt your meal!""Excuse me, ma'am. Wait!" Alex called out to Jade, holding back his laughter. "Why haven't you set me up wit
Caroline asked, "Our closeness doesn't stop you from going on a date, right?"Alex spoke with a sad expression. "Will anyone check on me?"Caroline and Evan said in unison, "You got yourself into this mess, didn't you?"Caroline and Evan were momentarily stunned. They exchanged a quick glance and then looked away.Caroline told her children, "Come with me to work, my darlings."Liora waved cheerfully at Evan. "Have a great date, sir!"Tyler added, "Best of luck!"Evan's expression turned serious.Alex burst into laughter. "Evan, I never thought you'd go on a first date!"Evan glared at Alex. "Get out of here!"-Jade eagerly called the Fleurs as they headed to their destination.The Fleurs agreed reluctantly after learning that Evan was a divorced father with assets across the country. "Fine, set up a meeting with him, and we'll discuss further."Jade accepted the task promptly.However, the Shentons were shocked when they reached the destination and saw a sign that read
Jade copied Brandon's pronunciation and exclaimed, "I want to buy Gucci! Gucci!"The sales attendant, Laura Garcia, said, "Hello. Welcome to Gucci's official flagship store. Which particular model are you interested in?""Can't you get what I mean? I don't need a specific model, just Gucci! Gucci!"Laura's expression momentarily stiffened before she explained patiently, "Madam, every bag we have here is a Gucci. This is the official Gucci flagship store. Could you let me know which bag style you have in mind?"Jade was frustrated. "Can't you grasp my words? Son, talk to her. I can't deal with this!"Brandon wandered through the store and pointed at a few models with the highest numbers, saying, "This one, this one… and this one. We'll take one of each!"Laura smiled. "Certainly!"After fetching the bags and packaging them, Laura turned to Brandon. "The total comes to 181,713 dollars. Will you be paying by card or digital wallet?""Neither. Just send the bill to Ms. Shenton, the
Reuben reported, "I've found it, Mr. Jordan. That woman is Ms. Shenton's adoptive father's sister. Their interaction had been minimal, and she would only contact Bradley for money. Her motive for visiting Ms. Shenton this time is crystal clear. It's all about the money. We tried to determine the exact amount they're after, but they haven't specified it yet."Evan narrowed his eyes and gripped the seat handle. In a deep voice, he said, "It's like an endless pit.""Exactly. These types are generally driven by greed. Initially, Ms. Shenton wanted to take action, but they resorted to threats."Evan scoffed. "Threats? All they want is to expose Caroline's ungrateful behavior to the media.""Yes, and here's the kicker. They've already spent over 2,000,000 dollars of Ms. Shenton's money this afternoon, but it was all at MK's mall."Evan's expression turned icy. "They must think money grows on trees for her."Noting Evan's concern for Caroline, Reuben added, "Indeed, Mr. Jordan. No matte
Caroline expected the Shentons to enjoy the day outside, but to her surprise, they returned home by noon. They walked in just as she was about to leave for lunch with the children.Jade wore an overly cheerful expression as if something remarkable had occurred. Her outfit, a colorful mishmash from yesterday's shopping spree, made her look rather absurd.Upon noticing Caroline's departure, Jade greeted her, asking, "Are you heading out?"Caroline said nonchalantly, "Would you like to join us?"Before Jade could reply, Gregory intervened, stating firmly, "No, we won't be joining you."He refused to go because he didn't want to encounter Jamie. He was convinced she was hiding in Caroline's car, even though he hadn't actually seen her.Caroline sneered and instructed the driver, "Let's go."As soon as Caroline and the children left, Gregory sighed in relief. He muttered, "I'd rather skip the meal than endure such fear."As Gregory prepared to head upstairs with Jade, he turned arou
Caroline firmly refused to involve Neil in her complicated relationships.The Shentons were greedy, so their behavior would worsen if they learned about Neil and his capabilities.She understood her brother well—he wouldn't sit idle after learning about the situation.However, solving the matter aggressively would only make it worse.Caroline had a plan to trap the Shentons during this time.Neil poured a glass of water for Caroline before turning to Liora and asking, "Lia, what's going on?"Tyler interjected at just the right moment, blurting out, "She got bitten by a dog," to divert Neil's suspicions.Neil was taken aback. He examined Liora's hand, concerned. "Where did you get bitten? Does it hurt?"Liora was smart enough to know that her mother did not want Neil to learn about their situation, so she went along with Tyler's story."It's okay, Uncle Neil. Just feeling a little unwell. No big deal," Liora reassured.Neil gently patted Liora's head. "Alright, if you say so."
Alex asked, "Don't you feel sorry for Evan these past five years? All of you kept Carol's information hidden from him. You work at MK. Don't you know how he's been all this time?"Paige said bluntly, "Yes, Mr. Jordan has indeed been in a difficult situation. But what about Caroline? Men are often driven by their sexual desires. You have your freedom once it's done, but a woman faces the challenging months of pregnancy!"Caroline was carrying triplets, yet she was sent to prison. Were you all blind to that? If you're trying to get Caroline's information from me, forget it!"Pug, let me make this clear today. If you want to spend time with me, go ahead. But don't contact me anymore if you're using our relationship to fish for information!"Alex frowned and said, "I didn't mean it that way. There's a misunderstanding between them—""Misunderstanding my ass! It was all because Evan tried to defend Daniella, right? That was the biggest misunderstanding in the beginning. Why did Carol h
Reese winced in pain. "Alright, ma'am. I guess I can read your mind? Be gentle!"Liora relaxed her grip at last. "Right, when are we going to that place you mentioned previously?""There's no rush. Your body isn't up for constant actions now. What if you get hurt by those harmful spirits again? I've already committed myself to you out of guilt. If it happens again, I won't have anything else to offer."Liora chuckled. "You make it sound like I'm desperate for your compensation.""What's wrong with that? I'm a strong, handsome man, and everyone loves me!" said Reese, displeased.Liora was astounded by his narcissism.She took a deep breath and said, "Reese.""Hmm?"Liora said, "In truth, I'm not the best choice to be your partner because of my profession. Those spirits may bother me from time to time. I'm the complete opposite of Isaac because of my negative physique.""What happens when you have a negative physique?""Spirits will be drawn to bother me and might cause me a lo
Reese and Isaac couldn't perceive the spirit, but they witnessed a dark mist dissipating before them.Isaac asked in astonishment, "What's happening, Lia?"Liora turned and answered, "The female spirit didn't want to move on, so her soul has been dissolved.""Dissolved? Do you mean her soul has been destroyed?" asked Reese. Liora nodded and looked around. "Uncle Kenny, please help me find the six spirits."Kenny took on the task and brought those fearful spirits in just a few minutes. Liora asked, "Do you want to choose the same option as her or come with me to Cross Chapel?""Cross Chapel!""We would have left long ago if we weren't trapped here by her threats!""She wouldn't let us go even in death. Aren't our lives worth anything?"After Fiery Red was gone, these spirits began to complain in anger.Liora was infuriated by their complaints. "How dare you criticize her! She may be responsible for your deaths, but what about you then? Do you think you bear no responsibil
"That's easy for you to say! Those who caused my death may have become spirits, but I still want to stop them from moving on!" Fiery Red barked. Liora frowned. "So, you're implying that those six students caused your death?""Why would I kill them otherwise?"Liora said, "It's time to let them go now that they've faced your revenge. Keeping them trapped is like trapping yourself. Why bother?""Allowing them to move on is letting them off too lightly!" Fiery Red roared. Liora said, "Your obsession is too strong and is keeping you trapped here. You're constantly hurting yourself with painful memories. If you move on properly, it will be a kind of liberation from your past.""Don't preach to me! I'll make it simple for you. It's either you die or my soul gets destroyed!" Fiery Red snapped. She was about to attack Liora just as she finished her sentence. Liora was planning to call out to Isaac when a figure suddenly showed up. Kenny rushed over and blasted away Fiery Red."Y
Tyler did not comment further upon hearing Liora's reply. In the evening, Isaac returned home from school to find Liora already there. He hurried over, brimming with excitement. "You're back, Lia! How are you feeling? Have you recovered from your injuries?"Isaac's smile stretched from ear to ear.Liora glanced at Isaac meaningfully and said, "Please do me a favor tonight, Isaac."Isaac nodded repeatedly. "Sure, are we heading to the campus?"Liora looked at Isaac in astonishment. "Are you not scared anymore?"The smile on Isaac's face faded slowly. "Spirits are scary, but I don't want to see you bullied by them again, Lia. I wanted to destroy those spirits on the same day after seeing you suffer. However, they told me to respect your decision, so I didn't do that."Liora caressed Isaac's head affectionately. "You've grown, Isaac. You know how to look out for me now."Isaac took Liora's hand and held her hand tightly in his own. "Lia, I've always cared about you. Next time you
Reese said, "Yes, you have been in love with her for 15 years and have invested a lot of time for her. However, haven't you noticed that Lia is a very rational person? As soon as she figures things out, she can move on immediately."Chester's breathing became irregular. He took two deep breaths shakily while staring at Reese. "Yes, she is more sensitive and rational than anyone else."Reese said, "I'm going to give you another analogy. If Lia chooses to be with me, what are you going to do?""Nothing. I said before that I'd respect Lia's choice no matter what. Similarly, you don't have to worry about anything else. I won't harbor any resentment because of love," Chester replied. Reese said, "In other words, you'll continue to be friends with Lia even if we end up together, is that right?"Chester frowned. "Lia and I are friends. If we can't be together, our relationship will remain the same as before. You like Lia, but you can't stop me from being friends with her, Reese."Reese
Reese raised his right arm and said, "My entire right arm was covered in blood at the time. I watched the removal of rotten flesh from your back with my own eyes. I couldn't sleep peacefully for days.""That's easy! Just get the doctor to prescribe sleeping pills to you. You will be able to sleep better, right?" Liora said while giggling. Reese crouched down next to the bed, smiling. "Lia, are you mad at me?"Liora was confused. "Mad at you? For what?"Reese scratched his nose. "If I didn't take you there, you wouldn't have gotten injured."Liora took a glance at him, astounded. "This has nothing to do with you taking me there. It's the ignorant spirits. I'll deal with them all once I recover!""You still want to go back there?" Reese exclaimed. "Yes, of course! Hades will be delighted if I can send the seven spirits to him," Liora said. Reese looked at the joyous smile on Liora's face, feeling guilty. "I was hoping that you'd scold me instead of talking to me so casually."
Reese sent away Tyler and the other, surging them to get some rest while he remained seated, his gaze fixed on Liora.She slept peacefully, her chest rising and falling slowly with each breath. Meanwhile, a nurse approached. Reese noticed her and hastily stood up. "Hello, nurse."The nurse asked, "How can I help you?"Reese said, "May I inquire when Liora can be transferred out of the ICU?"The nurse said, "I'm not too sure about that. It depends on the healing of her wounds and vital signs. She has the most extensive wound that I've ever seen on a girl. She might end up with scars…"The nurse opened the door and walked inside upon saying that. Reese was overwhelmed by a sense of guilt as he thought of the debt he owed to Liora. He knew he could never fully repay it in this lifetime.-Three days later, Liora was transferred out of the ICU.After learning about the incident, Caroline and Evan rushed to the hospital. They were heartbroken to see Liora lying prone on the be
Fear and worry flooded Reese's mind, making it impossible for him to sleep. He opened his eyes and looked at the sky through the skylight. Reese could not help Liora in her profession, so he wondered if he could help out in her safety. He thought about it before he grabbed his phone to text Tyler. Reese: [Can you tell me where Ms. Yelena is staying?]Soon, Tyler texted Yelena's hotel and room number. Reese: [Thank you, my friend.]Tyler sneered.Tyler: [I haven't settled the score with you over Lia's predicament.]Reese: [I'll accept any punishment you deem necessary. It was my mistake, and I'll take responsibility for it.]There was no reply from Tyler afterward.Reese did not send another text, so he started the car and drove to the hotel. -Half an hour later, Reese arrived at the door of Yelena's room. He pondered briefly before knocking on the door. Soon, he heard a response. "Coming."Yelena opened the door and was surprised to find Reese. "Are you the lad fro
Liora opened her palm. The outline of the charm was vague, but she could feel its intense energy. She took a deep breath and stood up. After sensing her movement, the spirits glanced at her. Liora turned to look at them and felt the same feeling that stopped her from leaving again!Suppressing the fear, Liora braced herself to walk out of the door.The closer she got to the door, the more intense the gloomy presence became—she felt as if her soul was being crushed. "Don't be scared, Lia!""Try to walk out, Lia! They won't hurt you!""Lia! Axel, Ty, Mr. Gates, and I are waiting for you!"Αfter hearing their voices, Liora shed tears. She gnashed her teeth and continued to stride toward the door, which seemed so close yet remained out of reach. She took a deep breath, raised her hand with the charm, and attempted to walk closer. This time, the spirits all turned to look at her. They rushed forward in unison when they sensed Liora was about to touch the door. Sensing t