Certainly, Caroline easily recognized Joan's signature due to her swift and efficient handwriting.Anna looked serious. "MK hired a highly renowned designer. In less than a month, MK's clothing sales will surpass ours because of John's reputation."Caroline frowned, deep in thought. 'Why did Joan choose to work for MK? And how did Evan's company hire her?'It's no wonder she hasn't been in touch with me lately. Turns out, she's been working for Evan. I don't mind her working for any company, but it doesn't feel good that she kept it from me.'The head of the sales department was also anxious due to Caroline's silence. "What should we do about this, Ms. Shenton?"Caroline raised her head after a moment of silence, exuding more confidence.'I'm sure Joan has her reasons for this. For now, let's compete with her using what I've learned from her,' she thought."No need to panic. I'll handle the upcoming designs, and you all should focus on your roles," Caroline assured.The head of
Evan and Alex stood in the ward, observing as a nurse inserted a needle into Axel's arm.Once the medication was prepared, Richie informed Evan, "The medication is ready, Mr. Jordan. However, it may be uncomfortable because the patient might vomit during the process."Evan frowned, glancing at Axel, who appeared unaffected. "Axel, can you handle it?"Axel nodded firmly. "I can endure it as long as it helps me get better."His only wish was to have a healthy body and spare his parents from worrying.Sitting beside Axel's hospital bed, Evan affectionately ruffled his hair. "This is what bravery looks like."Alex's eyes welled up upon hearing that. He wiped away his tears and added, "But Evan, Axel is only five years old. He's not a man yet."Evan glared icily at Alex. "Don't utter another word if you're going to talk nonsense!"Axel chuckled while Alex forced a smile. "I was just trying to lighten the mood for Axel.""Thank you, Mr. Price, but I'm fine."-Time passed quickly.
Daniella chuckled softly. "Don't be so guarded around me. I won't hurt you."Yuliana sneered. "Should I thank you for something?""Yes, you should." Daniella crossed her arms and looked self-assured. "I helped your father return to work at the company.""Stop bothering me with this," Yuliana said, glaring at Daniella."Fine, be cool.""If that's all you want to say, then leave."Yuliana was about to walk away, but Daniella blocked her path. "What a coincidence! I happen to have a task for you after you reminded me of it."Yuliana clenched her fists in frustration. "You're so mean! You keep forcing me to do things because of that incident. Who do you think you are?"Daniella glanced at her recent manicure absentmindedly. "I'll go to Grandpa then if you dislike me so much.""Stop!" Yuliana halted Daniella. "I'll do it, okay? But this is the last time!"Daniella looked satisfied. "I need you to keep an eye on Evan."Shocked, Yuliana wondered why she wasn't asked to watch Caroli
Caroline hopped into the car alongside Liora and Tyler, ready to address the Axel situation.Before she could, Liora beat her to it. "Mommy, Axel didn't come to school today either. Tyler and I approached a classmate to inquire. It appears he missed school yesterday, just like us."Caroline couldn't help but smile at how Liora claimed to have "approached" a classmate."Did he send you guys a message explaining his absence?" she asked.The phone was in Tyler's possession. He shook his head and replied, "No, he didn't message us about that, only a Christmas greeting."Caroline glanced down, her mind racing with thoughts about Axel's whereabouts and whether Evan had transferred him to another school due to yesterday's incident.She decided to send Axel a text, asking: [Axel, did you switch schools?]-Meanwhile, Axel lay weak in a hospital bed, having just endured several bouts of vomiting. His face was pale, and he seemed lost in a daze.When his phone rang, he furrowed his brow
Caroline sat at the dining table. "Businessmen will always chase profits. It's the way of the world. Didn't I take the top spot in Etes' fashion industry from him, too?"Kenny pouted, pondering her words. "You're right."Caroline turned her gaze to Eira. "You won't need to cook dinner for me tomorrow."Before Eira could respond, Kenny interjected, "Where are you headed?"Caroline sighed, her tone resolute. "I'm going to the Xanders."-After spending time with her children, Caroline entered her study and texted Scott at 9:30 p.m.Caroline: [I'll be at Xander Residence tomorrow night.]She had intended to go during Christmas but was delayed due to Lily's accident. Though she hesitated to ask Scott to accompany her, she had made a promise.Afterward, she placed her phone on the table, opened the encrypted DNA report on her laptop, and printed it.Now, she possessed evidence of Daniella's false identity but lacked any proof in the murder case. It was unfathomable how those aidin
Caroline smiled and asked, "Why did you choose my company when we don't know each other? An ordinary factory can handle this task."Greta replied vaguely, "An acquaintance recommended you to me."Caroline asked, "When do you need these clothes?"Greta replied, "Within 30 days."Caroline nodded thoughtfully and said, "That's not a problem."Caroline then asked, "What's the approximate cost?"Greta smiled and added, "Your company will also need to design it, so please include the design fee."Caroline placed the list on the coffee table and said, "I won't charge you for the design fee because this project is for charity, specifically to help kids in mountainous areas. How about we exchange contact information? I'll provide you with the material cost."Greta observed Caroline and asked, "But won't you incur a loss by only charging for the material cost?"Caroline replied gently, "Only those unwilling to help would see it that way. I'm a mother myself, and I can't bear to see kids
Yuliana changed her appearance before heading to the hospital.After asking around and finding out Axel's ward, she took an elevator to go upstairs. As she reached the floor, Evan and Alex were leaving the ward, accompanied by two doctors and a few nurses.Yuliana had just stepped out of the elevator. She lowered her cap, adjusted her sunglasses, and then sat on a nearby bench, pretending to play with her phone.Richie told Evan, "I recommend shaving his head in the next two days, Mr. Jordan. Otherwise, it might cause him great trauma when he starts losing his hair later."Although Evan was exhausted, he remained composed. "That's not a problem. But how can we stop his vomiting?""He's still weak and can't receive an injection for that, Mr. Jordan. Besides, he needs surgery later this week."Evan's face showed displeasure. "Have you managed to find the bone marrow?"Uneasily, Richie replied, "We've been keeping an eye on the bone marrow bank and contacting various hospitals, b
Scott's lack of response left Caroline restless, prompting her to leave the company and wait anxiously outside.December's early nightfall brought bone-chilling cold even to those bundled in thick clothes.While holding her phone, Caroline's hand froze in the biting wind. She called Scott once more.After some time, someone finally picked up. Caroline began, "Sco—"A strange voice cut her off. "The phone's owner had a car accident! Are you his family? We've called 911!"Caroline's hand trembled at the news. She stammered, "W-Where is he?"Her eagerness to descend the stairs was quelled as her legs went limp, causing her to tumble.The loud thud alarmed her nearby employees."Ms. Shenton!" They rushed over to help her up.Once steady, Caroline nervously said, "I'm okay. Help me locate my phone.""Here!" An employee handed it to her.She revealed her wounded palm, causing them to gasp."Ms. Shenton, your hand…"Ignoring her injury, Caroline focused on her phone again.The s
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