"Are you telling me what to do?" Dean sneered."Dad, I'm just worried that this will affect our family. Avery said on the phone that she won't let Angela live, and she has all the power Elliot had at her expense. Are you really going to go against them?" Sebastian said. "We won't stand a chance. If we already know that we are going to lose, why are we still doing this?""You've overestimated yourself, Sebastian. Your brother is better than you because he believed in me, but of course, that makes him more foolish than you are." Dean commented on his sons with contempt. "If what you foresee is the same thing as I expect, do you really think I would go up against them? I'm seventy-three this year, boy. I've been through more than you can imagine. Are you saying all this because you think I've lost my mind from old age?!""That's not it, Dad... I'm not doubting you. I'm just worried that our family would get dragged into unnecessary conflict," Sebastian said while trying to figure out w
Half an hour later, Mike had gathered a group of people and was getting ready to head to MediLove Pharmaceutical with Avery. Just then, Avery received a call from Dean.Avery answered the call right away."Avery, I heard that you found evidence that proves we have Elliot Foster. Let's hear it, then?"Dean's casual tone provoked Avery and she immediately said, "You took Elliot from Ylore and brought him here to Bridgedale and kept him in Angela's office. I found the foldable bed Elliot used in Angela's office. Dean Jennings, what do you have to say for yourself?""Oh... And how would you know that the bed belonged to Elliot?" Dean was not sure how they got exposed."The search dogs sniffed out Elliot's scent from the bed. Angela isn't answering her phone. Does she intend on having you handle everything?" Avery asked. "You have one day. If you don't return Elliot to me before dark, I will kill you and Angela. I'll do whatever it takes! You can try me if you aren't afraid of dying!"
What Dean said revealed no information."Is he saying that Angela wouldn't hurt Elliot?" Avery thought to herself. "If that's the case, why would she kidnap him in the first place?""She took Elliot away against his will. No matter what motivated her to do so, I will never forgive her! Dean Jennings, you can try and talk your way out of this, but you better not let me find any evidence that points to your involvement! Otherwise, I swear I will make you pay!""Avery, if I am telling you that I have nothing to do with this, I am not worried that you would look into it! Why would I want Elliot? Even you can't explain it, can you? I've never questioned what Angela does in her lab. She won't tell me anything even if I were to ask her. You've overestimated my influence on her. She knows that I rely heavily on her, and she never has to worry about bills when she comes asking for money. Of course, it's not like she has my full, undivided support, and that's why she has agreed to marry me,"
Mike sent Avery home and the two had lunch before beginning their research on the nominees for the Marshall’s Award.In the afternoon, Mike knocked on Avery's bedroom door.Instead of resting, Avery was sitting by the window under the sun with a sorrowful expression.Mike stepped inside after knocking on the door."Why aren't you sleeping?""I can't sleep." She turned to look at him. "You, too?""Yeah. Typically, such a famous award should have its own official website, but I can't find anything. I suspect that instead of using the internet, they might be using a traditional method of communication, maybe through paper.""That can be possible. One would need to present sufficient supporting documents if they want to apply for the award... Back when Professor Hough applied for it, he had boxes of documents ready, so the committee might be filtering applicants in the most traditional way possible.""If that's the case, we can't find out if Angela is in it.""She probably is," Av
Avery nodded. "I've met with one of these professors before."Do you have his contact number?"Avery shook her head. "I met him when I was with Professor Hough. Professor Hough had his contact, but I don't.""Let's go find this guy, then!" Mike said. "Which professor are you talking about?""Mike, I will contact him myself. I can do it." Avery put away the list and changed the subject. "I am done with my nap.""You haven't slept for long and now you are done?" Mike glanced at her. "You do look better, though. The doctor will come over to have a look at you. You are going to rest some more tonight. Even if you want to meet with this professor, you will have to wait until tomorrow.""Yeah. I will stay home tonight." Avery felt calmer after taking a nap. Regardless of the situation, they had found an important lead. Angela might be able to avoid them for now, but not for long. In a month, she would have to eventually show herself.After dinner, Avery made a video call to Layla and
"I know, Mommy. One of my classmates invited me to her birthday party a few days ago but I said no. I've been in a bad mood because both you and Daddy are gone, so I don't feel like going out to play. I come home right after school every day so I'm safe. Don't worry about me," Layla said sweetly. She knew that Avery was exhausted from trying to find Elliot and she did not want to cause Avery any more worry."I know you are a good girl. Your dad and I have put you through so much when you shouldn't have to face something like this," Avery said sorrowfully. "Once I find your dad, I will try talking Hayden into moving back with us. After that, we are never going to part as a family ever again.""Yay! I'm so happy that you said that, Mommy."Avery started chuckling at the sight of the overjoyed expression on Layla's face.After the call, she turned around and noticed that the doctor was standing behind her with his briefcase. She cleared her throat awkwardly and asked, "When did you ar
After making up her mind, she made a call to her mother."Natalie, are you okay? You haven't picked up your calls for the past two days, and I'm about to lose my mind!" Mrs. Jennings said anxiously. "I can't reach you, so I could only call Dean. It's only after he told me you are fine that I could finally get some sleep.""I'm just in a really bad mood, Mom! I hope you understand." Natalie picked up the glass in front of her and took a sip of liquor. "Have you called Auntie?""Yeah. I told her what happened to you. She tried calling Leah but Leah hasn't been answering her call." Mrs. Jennings sighed. "It could really be Leah who told Avery about you. How could she? How could she tell an outsider something so important? Does she not know that this could get you killed?!""Why are you still speaking like you are on her side, Mom? She's going to get me killed and you are still siding with her?! She's not a child. She's an adult in her twenties now! She knew what she was doing and knew
"Avery, how are you?""Good. Why are you here all of a sudden?" Avery asked. "We are close, and soon, we will find Elliot.""You've done well. I came because you are certain that Elliot is here. Besides, Natalie could be hiding here as well. I feel disgusted whenever I think of what she's done." Ben scowled. "She signed a contract with Elliot, so I can wait. Once Elliot walks free, he will deal with her!"Avery nodded. "When did you arrive?""I arrived at two in the morning and went to the hotel to rest for a bit. I figured you would be awake around this time and came over." Ben looked her up and down. "I heard that you were injured. Are you okay?""Much better now. I'm fine." Avery glanced at the kitchen.The nanny was waiting inside and noticed Avery's gaze. "Breakfast is ready."Avery turned to look at Ben. "Have you eaten?""I did at the hotel, but I can eat more." Ben walked with her to the dining room. "Is Hayden at school? Mike's still sleeping, huh?""Probably. Mike ha
Three years later…Ivy and Robert stood at the airport in Aryadelle, anxiously waiting."It's been three years! Your boyfriend is finally here to see you!" Robert exclaimed before shifting the conversation. "He's not here to break up with you, is he? After all, you haven't seen each other in three years. A lot can change."Ivy sighed, "Robert, can you not jinx it? Although we haven't met in three years, we talk on the phone and video call every day!"Robert quipped, "Digital romance.""Anyway, he promised me that he's going to settle down in Aryadelle this time, and we won't be apart again," Ivy said. Robert smirked. "He's got a strong sense of pride. When he meets Dad later, they might not hit it off, and he'll buy a ticket to leave tonight!"Feeling helpless, Ivy was at a loss for words. Just then, a familiar voice called out, "Ivy!"Ivy immediately looked over to the source of the voice and saw Lucas stepping out of the exit, dragging his suitcase behind him. A smile sp
Mr. Woods did not expect Hayden to be so direct, and he found himself momentarily caught off guard. He had come to ask Hayden for money, but he had not thought about exactly how much he wanted. After all, Hayden's family was extremely wealthy, and he did not want to ask for too little and feel shortchanged, nor did he want to risk asking for too much and having Hayden refuse. It was a tough decision. After a brief internal struggle, Mr. Woods turned to Hayden and said, "I know your family is one of the wealthiest in Aryadelle, so why don't you name the price? I trust you won't mistreat my son and our family." Hayden furrowed his brows slightly. Shelly, noticing his hesitation, quickly chimed in, "Uncle, why don't you make an offer? We're not very familiar with this process. If you insist on us naming a price, we might need to consult my father-in-law." "Elliot Foster, you mean?" Mr. Woods asked. Shelly nodded. "Yes. My father-in-law isn't as easygoing as my husband. After a
"All right. Let's find a place nearby to sit and talk." Mr. Woods breathed a sigh of relief. "Good! Our house is actually nearby. Would you like to visit? Ivy has been with us for many years, and our staff has a close relationship with her." Hayden glanced at Shelly and asked, "Should we go?" "Sure!" Shelly said. Mr. Woods immediately invited Hayden and Shelly into his car and drove them to the Woods' mansion. Upon arriving, Mr. Woods instructed the servants to serve tea and refreshments. He pointed to the butler and said to Hayden, "This is our butler. He hired Ivy's grandmother." Hayden nodded. Mr. Woods then introduced Hayden: "This is Irene's older brother, the renowned businessman Mr. Hayden Tate." "Hello, Mr. Tate. Irene was a wonderful young lady," the butler said. "We all liked her very much. When we heard of her passing, we were truly saddened. Fortunately, she didn't actually pass away! Ivy is a very sensible and resilient girl, one of the strongest I've eve
Ivy's eyes were red as she said, "Hayden, Lucas' mother has passed away, so I won't be able to spend time with you for a few days." "It's okay. Given what has happened, we're not in the mood for fun either. After we attend his mother's funeral, Shelly and I will return," Hayden said. Ivy nodded. "How are funerals handled here?" Hayden asked. Given Lucas' relationship with Ivy, his younger sister, he felt a sense of duty to help Lucas with the funeral arrangements. "It's similar to how it's done back at home. Wealthy people can have elaborate funerals, and those with less money can opt for simpler ceremonies. Those who can't afford much at all can forgo the ceremony and opt for a simple burial," Ivy said. "What if someone wants a more elaborate funeral?" "Hayden, do you want to help with his mother's funeral? He doesn't have any close relatives here, so there's no need for an elaborate ceremony," she explained. "I see. Go and talk to him about it. I'll help with whatever I
Lucas hung up, tears welling in his eyes. Ivy stood by his side and asked, "What's wrong, Lucas?" "My mom has passed away. You should keep your brother company! I need to head back to the hospital." "I will come along! Aunty seemed fine just now, so why did she suddenly pass away?" The two hurried toward the car, completely forgetting about Hayden and Shelly. Hayden and Shelly watched as they left awkwardly, and Shelly said, "Honey, let's go to the hospital. I think Lucas' mother has passed away." "Sure." The two caught a taxi and hurried after Lucas. Meanwhile, in the hospital, Lucas arrived to first encounter the doctor and then his father. Mr. Woods tried ingratiating himself with his son, saying, "Lucas, I came to the hospital to see your mother, but when I arrived, she had already passed away. What a shame!" "Are you sure she had already passed away before you came? I was here earlier today, and when I saw her, she was still alive!" Lucas said. Mr. Woods reto
Mr. Woods sneered, "What do you mean? Are you looking down on me? Although the Woods family has fallen on hard times, we're still a prominent family in Taronia! Lucas may be foolish, but are you any wiser? If it weren't for me backing Lucas, would the Fosters even look at him?" "Shut up! The Foster family isn't narrow-minded like you! Ivy's family doesn't dislike Lucas, so don't go causing trouble! They don't want to see you at all!" Lucas' mother retorted. Mr. Woods scoffed. "Is that so? Do you really think they don't look down on him? Why wouldn't they? Are they planning to make Lucas marry into their family instead of the other way round?" "It's none of your business! You never cared about Lucas, and now that he's independent, he doesn't need you anymore! You wouldn't have come to me repeatedly if Ivy wasn't Elliot Foster's daughter and if she wasn't interested in Lucas. Do you really think I have no idea what you are plotting?" Mr. Woods countered, "What nonsense are you ta
Ivy did not hesitate, immediately shaking her head. "I'm not leaving. Don't worry about me; just focus on yourself." "Staying here is just a waste of time." "I've been studying and interning so hard for so long. What's wrong with taking a break now?" Ivy argued. Before long, Hayden and Shelly had finished their shopping, and Ivy and Lucas immediately joined them to go to the hospital. Lucas' mother had no idea that Ivy's brother and sister-in-law were coming to visit her, so she appeared a bit uncomfortable when they arrived. She tried to sit up, but her body failed her. Ivy raised the head of the hospital bed. "Aunty, my big brother and sister-in-law came over to Taronia for a visit. They wanted to see Lucas and you." "Oh, this is really embarrassing. It's a blessing for my son to know Ivy..." Lucas' mother muttered sheepishly. Shelly reassured, "Aunty, don't say that. Lucas is outstanding. Otherwise, Ivy wouldn't have fallen for him." Lucas' mother continued, "I've
Throughout the meal, Ivy found it hard to enjoy her food. Lucas and Hayden discussed everything that mattered, and the conversation went smoother than anyone had anticipated. Hayden was not upset, nor was Lucas. It was a better scenario than what Ivy had hoped for, but she still felt depressed. "Lucas, my husband and I would like to pay your mother a visit. Would that be okay?" Shelly asked after finishing her food. "Sure," Lucas said. "Don't we need to ask your mom first?" Ivy asked. "It's fine. We can just head over right away and introduce them once we arrive." Lucas' mother grew weaker every day and had stopped using her phone altogether, so it was her nurse, whom Lucas had hired, who reported his mother's condition to him daily. "You restarted your business and have to take care of your mother simultaneously; you're really strong. Most people would crumble under the pressure," Shelly commented. "Ivy had a tougher life before. She didn't crumble, so I won't eith
After what Ivy said, Lucas added, "I want to focus on my career for now. Marriage is secondary until I become more successful." Hayden sneered. "Running a business isn't as simple as it seems. What if you fail or never achieve anything out of the ordinary?" "If that happens, I won't drag Ivy down," Lucas said. "At least you know your place." Ivy felt as though her cheeks were on fire. "Hayden, even if Lucas fails, I won't give up on him. I won't let him go just because of his financial state." Shelly grabbed Hayden's hand again, signaling to him to control his temper; he could be rude to others, but he could not be so demanding with Ivy. Ivy sensed that she was slightly out of line, and her tone eased. "Hayden, we shouldn’t judge people based on their wealth. Our family is rich enough, and there really aren't that many people out there who can compare to our financial state, so why does it matter how wealthy my partner is?" "Ivy is right. Love matters most. Even if we man