Chapter 246
“The Turner family was the one who assaulted me first. Why shouldn’t I talk about it?” Gabriel asked angrily
“Where’s Nina? Come on out! Who does she think she is? Some precious treasure? She has been married to my son for three years, and it’s already bad enough that she refuses to let my son touch her. How dare she hit him?” Gabriel’s mother had finally revealed her shrewish personality.
“You should watch what you’re saying!” Leila was so angry that she was about to throw hands.
Tania hurriedly went to stop her. “Ignore her and let her be. Lucy, call the police.”
“The police? Fine. Let’s see who backs out first. Why shouldn’t I come over? Isn’t my son your son–in–law? How could you beat him up like this?” Gabriel’s mother pointed at her son’s bruised and swollen face. “Did you do this on purpose? Who does the Turner family think they are?”
“We did the people a favor. Beating up your son like this? Why didn’t you throw him into the river and feed him to fishes?” Leila rolled
her eyes.
“How dare you talk to me that way? Someone like you, who can’t even get married and became an old woman who stays at home all day, dares to laugh at my son?”
Gritting her teeth, Leila refused to bear it any longer. “Mandy, let go of me. I need to punch her.”
Mandy looked at Leila in disgust, as she was not even holding her back.
“What’s with all the noise out here?” Surprised by the commotion, Lewis came over
ver with his walking stick.
Josie, who was nearest to him, hurried over to help him. ‘Grandpa Lewis, you should go back to your room. Samuel and the others
will handle this.”
“Grandpa Lewis, you have to help me!” As soon as Gabriel saw Lewis, his expression changed instantly. There seems to be a misunderstanding between Nina and me. She wanted a divorce, so I agreed to it. But, she sent someone to beat me up right after.”
Lewis looked at Leila and Mandy coldly. “Is that true?”
“Absolutely not. V We didn’t hit anyone, and neither did my sister.” Leila shook her head.
Lewis then looked at Gabriel. “Do you have any evidence?”
“I saw it happen! Gabriel announced angrily.
“You claimed that you saw it, but Nina said she didn’t hit you. I’m old but I’m not confused. Of course I would trust the words of my family,” Lewis declared sternly. “Gabriel, I agreed to let you marry Nina because I thought you were an honest man. But, you didn’t take it seriously. In the past three years, you’ve been restless and spent a lot of time frolicking outside. You even embezzled the project funds. Out of consideration of the sweet words you’ve uttered in these past three years, I won’t report you to the police. However, don’t push your luck.”
“Lewis, what do you u mean we embezzled the project funds? The money
ney was transferred from Nina’s personal bank account. That
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means the money belongs to my son since it became his property after the marriage.” Gabriel’s mother smacked the table angrily
Lewis‘ face darkened. “You would know better than anyone how capable Gabriel is and how much money he has. In fact, you should be grateful that I’m not pursuing this subject any further. Stop acting so unreasonably.”
Lewis was afraid that Leonardo would hear about this. He thought, “He’s my new son–in–law. It would be better if there weren’t many disputes from before.”
“Grandpa Lewis, we can leave the matter about the project funds aside and talk about my face first. They beat me up until I looked like this. Something needs to be done about it.” Gabriel was utterly unsalable.
“Isn’t it already bad enough that you took 4.5 million dollars from my sister? Are you asking us to pay your medical bills? We didn’t
attack anyone. Leila was furious.
“Nina! Come out here, right now! Gabriel’s mother began to yell again.
“What are you yelling on about? Who do you think you are to make demands of my sister? She’s already married to someone else. You should stop acting like a buffoon.” Leila almost wanted to make a move when she blocked Gabriel’s mother.
“Married to someone else? What do you mean?” Gabriel was stunned. “Nina remarried? What nonsense are you spouting? Nina is such an unsound woman. No one would want her. I was married to her for three years, and she told me to scram the moment I tried
to touch her. What man would ever want her?”
On the stairs, Leonardo’s face darkened as he walked down coldly.
Nina followed behind Leonardo with a red face.
After taking a few steps, Leonardo grabbed Nina’s wrist.
Nina wanted to break free, but Leonardo refused to let her.
“Gabriel, your presence alone disgusts me. My sister had the foresight to reject your touch.” Lella smirked. “You’re just embarrassing yourself.”
“Are you done?” Nina asked in a low voice.
Gabriel heard Nina’s words and rushed in excitedly. “Nina! You asked someone to beat me up! Let’s clear things up, shall we? A woman like you who couldn’t get married and stay at home all the time, do you think you’re a saint? You don’t want me to touch you, yet you refuse to let me seek other women?”
Nina walked over with a cold face and looked at Gabriel as if she was staring at a fool. “You really are a stain in my life.”
As Leonardo smiled, he hugged Nina from behind. “Should I help you remove the stain?”
Gabriel wanted to curse, but he was instantly stunned when he spotted Leonardo.
“Who is that man? You just divorced my son a few days ago, and you already have a lover? You once claimed that my son was insulting you because he hooked up with a woman outside. You probably got together with that man a long time ago. So, is this how
the Turner family educates their daughter? Adulterous people should be punished! Gabriel’s mother yelled.
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Samuel gripped his trembling hand. He was already at his limits.
Upon seeing Samuet’s anger, Josie frowned. “You know about your sorts affairs, don’t you? Ih the decent here. The girl in Caligo Club has already admitted to it. She also has Gabriel’s transfer records from when he paid for her services. If I call the sec now, your son will be detained”
Josie had asked Jessica to contact the woman who was involved with Gabriel in advance. She had paid the girl a sum of money for the evidence, in case Nina was unable to untangle herself and her marital property from Gabriel.
“With this evidence, your son will have to leave the marriage with nothing if we file a lawsuit for divorce. You know the law, dont you?” Josin frowned and stood in front of Samuel
Gabriel’s mother had never met Josie before. So, she was stunned by her words, and she did not dare do anything for the tigne being
to
“Gabriel, stop being so shameless. If I were you, I would bring your mother and leave the Turner residence right susy” Josie wok out her phone and showed them the WhatsApp screenshot of Gabriel’s money transfer to the girl in Caligo Club,
“You bi*ch…” Gabriel cursed.
“The told us that you’ve been sleeping around and that you kept her as your mistress for a year. She has all the evidence in her hand We have substantial evidence of you cheating during your one year of marriage to Nina. If you don’t want to embarrass yourself any further, just get out,” Josie uttered in a low voice. Her tone left no room for doubt.
Gabriel glared at Josie angrily. “Where did she come from?” he thought.
“Nina! Did you get someone to trick me? Gabriel could only take his frustrations out on Nina. 1r. Langford, this woman… Dont be fooled by her. Did she seduce you for the project investment? Mr. Langford, that woman is ill. She refuses to let men lay a finger
hert Don’t be deceived!”
Leonardo sneered. “Really? Don’t you mean she refuses to let you touch her?”
Gabriel was dumbfounded.
“You know, I should be thanking you. Leonardo held Nina’s hand tightly and added. “But I’m warning you, Nina is my wife.”
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Gabriel looked at Leonardo in astonishment before casting another glance at Nina. He could not say a word.
“I told you they were adulterous couples…”
Julia wanted to continue cussing them, but Gabriel stopped her in panic. “Mr. Langford, are you kidding me?”
“This joke was not fun at all,” he thought.
“Do you think I have time to joke with yo
you
at this moment?” Leonar
Leonardo sneered and tightened his grip on Nina.
Nina’s body was slightly stiff, but she could not resist him
Looking back at Leonardo, Nina did not say anything.
“Mom… Let’s go first” Gabriel
el knew he could not afford to offend Leonardo, so he pulled his mom away in panic and left.
Julia wanted to continue cussing them, but she was intimidated upon meeting Josie’s stare. “Stop thinking you can threaten me with those things…”
Obviously, she did not have enough confidence as she spoke her words.
“If you continue to make trouble, I don’t mind exposing all of your son’s history of adulterous affairs. After all, Clusia Media Group specializes in this field. If these affairs come to light, your son will be a bachelor in his life. Let’s see which pure and good woman would want to marry him, Josie said threateningly.
Julia was so frightened that her face turned pale. These affairs were family matters, so naturally, she could not let others know about them. “Very good. The whole Turner family worked together to bully the two of us. Just wait for it!”
Seeing that Gabriel and her mom had left, Josie breathed a sigh of relief.
Samuel stretched out his hand and held Josie tightly in his arms. He did not know that his girlfriend was so formidable. “Jo, where did you get the evidence?”
“On the day you made Gabriel angry, I asked Jessica to find evidence for me in the Caligo Club… But she didn’t find any particularly useful evidence, so I didn’t get to tell you about it. I was just trying to frighten them just now,” said Josie with some embarrassment.
Samuel was so surprised that he wished he could take Josie home and ki*s her now.
“Our Jo was so domineering.” Leila gave her a thumbs–up. “There must be evidence to block their mouths when needed to deal with
such scoundrels.”
Nina also looked at Josie gratefully. “Jo, thanks to you”
“No, no. I think Gabriel was afraid of Leonardo, so he left.” Josie smiled and hurriedly waved her hand. Leonardo was the biggest
contributor.
Nina made a disdainful sound and rolled her eyes at Leonardo. She took a step aside from him and deliberately pulled the distance
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away
Leonardo just smiled faintly and seemed to indulge Nina.
Josie also smiled with relief. She believed that eyes don’t lie.
“At least… Leonardo was sincere with Nina now she thought.
“Sorry, I’m going to answer the phone,” Josie’s phone rang.
Lewis frowned. The atmosphere around him was a bit low. He
come with me!”
e was obviously angry with G
Gabriel and his mom. “Nina! Both of you
Nina became a coward. She subconsciously hid behind Leonardo.
She was not afraid of anyone in this family, but Lewis.
Those who had served as soldiers were strict
In the courtyard, Josie answered the phone. “Hello?”
“Josie, do you remember me?” There was a false and disgusting voice on the other side of the phone.
“Ashley?” Josie’s face darkened instantly.
“Oh, it was rare that you still remember me, Josie.” Ashley s
smiled.
“Anything to say?” Josie asked in a deep voice, and continued, “If not, I’ll hang up.”
“Of course there is something. Do you remember Zachary?”
Josie’s fingers, which held the phone, stiffened. “What do you want to say?”
“Something happened to Zachary. Didn’t Henry tell you?” Ashley asked with a smile.
“What do you
you mean?” Josie’s heart tightened.
“What happened to Zachary?” she wondered.
“The police took Zachary away. If you don’t believe me, you can call Henry and ask. I believe you will come to me if you are interested.” Ashley did not say anything more. A direct threat would leave behind a subject for people to talk about for ridicule.
Josie’s face turned pale after hanging up the phone. “How would Ashley know about Zachary’s accident?” she thought.
In Gibson Corporation, Henry rubbed his eyebrows as he listened to the piece of news. “Mr. Gibson, Ashley
shley was not in her original residence, I don’t know where she went. Obviously, she is on guard, and the people of Spike also couldn’t find her.”
Ashley and
Hazel f
I must have discussed dealing with Zachary
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Zachary was still in the detention center. Although the evidence was insufficient, the surveillance footage caught Zachary kicking the door, which was very bad for him.
Even if he was not bullying Ashley, she was a public entertainer, and Zachary undoubtedly fell into Ashley’s trap by doing so.
It was hard for him to prove his innocence unless Ashley personally clarified or withdrew the case
“What’s the purpose of Ashley to do so?” Cecilia was a little confused.
“Thomas. I guess Ashley wanted to ask Josie to withdraw the case because Thomas had not pleaded guilty. The person who kidnapped Josie took the blame and clearly helped Thomas plead innocent. The police only caught Thomas sneaking into Josie’s ward. There was no substantive evidence to prove he wanted to hurt Josie.”
Henry guessed that Ashley was going to save Thomas.
“This woman is so vicious,” Cecilia said angrily. “Mr. Gibson, if Ashley’s target is Thomas, will she be looking for trouble with Ms.
Yates?”
ww could I forget that?” he asked himself inwardly.
Henry’s body stiffened for a moment. “… How could I forget
Even if Samuel could protect Josie, Henry was a little worried.
After checking the time, Henry got up and planned to look for Samuel and Josie.
These days, he had been escaping..
Since Josie was cured and discharged from the hospital, he had never appeared in front of Josie.
Buzz
Not sure whether it was a coincidence, but when Henry was thinking about her, Josie called him.
“Jo!” Henry’s voice was a little anxious. It had been a long time since he heard Josie’s call.
Humans were really ironic creatures. When Josie called him back then in the past, he would feel upset if she called too often because he was fearless, However, when he lost Josie, he found that her phone call was precious,
“Henry, did something happen to Zachary?” Josie’s voice was a little anxious.
Henry took a deep breath and thought, “As expected, she’ll ask.” He then asked her, “Did Ashley contact you?”
“Yes, she just called me.” Josie’s voice was in haste. “What’s wrong?”
“Jo, it’s hard to explain in a few sentences. Where are you? Let’s meet…” Henry could have actually said it on the phone, but he knew that because of the matter regarding Zachary, Josie will meet him.
He just wanted to take advantage of these opportunities to meet Josle more often.
He really missed her.
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“Okay, then the venue will be the coffee shop on the corner of Santalum Alley.”
Josie was worried about Zachary, so she agreed without hesitation.
Henry was breathing a little rapidly. He nervously walked to the door and looked back at Cecilia. He checked with her on his attire. “Cecilia, look… My clothes…
Cecilia felt a little sad and nodded with a smile. “Mr. Gibson, you are very handsome.”
Unfortunately, some things would never come back if they were lost.
No matter how hard he tried and how humble
le he was, some lost things would never return.
Obviously, Henry also realized this and lowered his head with a bitter smile. “I’ll go out for a while. Call me if anything happens.”
Cecilia did not know how to comfort him, so she nodded. “Okay, Mr. Gibson.”
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Meanwhile, at the Turner residence.
Seeing t
that Josie was still in the courtyard and had not entered the house, Samuel was a little worried. “Jo, what’s wrong?” he asked.
“Zachary… Something happened to Zachary,” said Josie. She did not hide that information from Samuel. “Tm meeting Henry at the coffee shop at Santalum Alley. Would you like to accompany me?” Josie asked.
Samuel felt an itch within him. He was elated that Josie had told him about all those.
Moreover, when Josie mentioned Henry, she seemed indifferent.
Actually, Samuel had thought that it did not matter even if Josie never fell in love with him for the rest of her life, or if she never forgot Henry. Samuel felt contented even if Josie merely relied on him
However, Samuel saw hope when he looked into Josie’s eyes.
Samuel wondered, “Can Josie love me the way she used to love Henry?”
“Okay, I’ll go with you.” Samuel pulled Josie into his arms. Taking advantage of the fact that there was no one in the courtyard, Samuel tried to k*ss Josie.
Josie blushed and said cautiously. “What are you doing… Your family is inside the house.”
Samuel snorted. “So what? I’m merely k*ssing my own girlfriend.”
Josie looked up at Samuel. When she mentioned Henry just now, she noticed that there was still a look of panic in Samuel’s eye
eyes.
“He is so unconfident of himself!” Josie thought.
“Samuel, are you not aware of what an outstanding man you are? Josie asked with a smile.
“Am I?” Samuel held Josie tightly. Then why didn’t you fall in love with me earlier?” he asked.
the one who isn’t good enough, but I feel that after being with you, I’ve become increasingly outstanding.” Josie chuckled and joked with Samuel,
“Ahem!” Lella came out to make a phone call and saw Samuel and Josie acting lovey–dovey and hugging each other. Leila remarked, “How wonderful! A couple who’s in their honeymoon phase.”
“We’ll be deeply in love with one another for the rest of our lives, Samuel retorted to Leila.
“Sam, when you behave like this, I suspect that you’re trying to urge me to get into a romantic relationship of my own. And I have the evidence that you guys are trying to make others jealous.” Leila snorted, looked at her ringing phone, and went to the side to answer the phone.
Mandy had been eating all that while, and she would eat fruits even after she was done with her meal.
Chapter 248
Josie was curious. “Mandy, arent you a a model? Won’t you be afraid of becoming fat if you eat so much?”
“She says that she won’t get fat no matter how much she eats.” Samuel raised his eyebrow.
“How enviable.” Josie cast an envious gaze at Mandy.
“What happened to Zachary?” Samuel asked.
Samuel spoke for a bit with his family and then left with Josie.
“Ashley called me and told me to ask Henry, but Henry said that it’s difficult to explain it over the phone.” Josie glanced at Samuel carefully. “Do you mind that I contacted Henry?” she asked.
Samuel shook his head. “As you said, even though you guys are already divorced, Henry is still part of the Gibson family, and you’re still one family.”
Samuel was not bothered by it. Moreover, as long as it had something to do with Henry, Josie would particularly y care about his feelings.
Samuel enjoyed the feeling of being cared for by Josie.
you feel aggrieved if you have to accompany
pany me to take public transport or squeeze
Josie carefully held onto Samuel’s finger. “Will y into the crowded subway?” asked Josie,
“I like to take the subway.” Samuel had an arrogant look on his face and easily made up a lie.
“But I don’t like it. Every time you take the subway, there will be beautiful women coveting you. I will be jealous. Josie thought for a while. “Love has to go both ways,” she thought.
Josie could not allow Samuel to be the only one giving in and sacrificing
“I’m thinking… If you drive, can the passenger seat beside yours be my exclusive seat? Josie asked.
Josie took a deep breath. If the driver was Samuel, she would be willing to sit in the passenger seat beside him.
Samuel stopped walking suddenly and stared at Josie with an intense look in his eyes. “Jo… If you want, my passenger seat will only belong to you.” Samuel k*ssed Josie, stopping her from continuing what she wanted to say,
Josie blushed and lowered her head. “Why are you… Why do you keep wanting to ki*s me?” she asked.
She felt that Samuel was like a child.
“That’s because I love you,” answered Samuel,
Upon hearing that, Josie blushed even more. “He’s good at saying sweet nothings, she thought.
Meanwhile, at Hazel’s apartment.
Ashley was staying in Hazel’s house for the time being, but she was afraid that Spike’s men would find her there and make trouble
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For her.
There is no substantive evidence for Thomas‘ case. The person who kidnapped Josie has turned himself in. Furthermore, Thomas has an alibi. As long as Josie withdraws the case and decides not to pursue the matter, Thomas can come out,” said Hazel.
Ashley sighed with relief. “That’s great.”
“But, Hazel, are you sure that for Zachary’s sake, Josie will…” Ashley did not believe that Josie would agree to withdraw the lawsuit for Zachary
“She will.” Hazel smiled.
Hazel seemed to be very confident.
“Henry is in touch with me every d
day, but he’s been very busy recently. I don’t have a chance to see him Ashley sighed.
–
Ashley wanted to live together with Henry as soon as possible.
In addition, she wanted to become his fiancée.
“Your wish will come true very soon,” Hazel comforted Ashley. “The person Henry hates most is Spike. Zachary is the spy sent by Spike to his side. Henry will only be elated that you helped settle Zachary’s matter. Only after he has taken care of Spike can he focus on dating you.”
Ashley blushed. “Really?”
“Of course, it’s true. Ashley, you’re so beautiful. I want no one else but you to be my daughter–in–law,” Hazel coaxed Ashley with a smile.
However, Ashley fell for it
She was determined to become Henry’s wife.
The incident affected her career greatly. Even if she recovered and made a comeback, her career path would be more difficult than before.
Besides, she missed the shooting of “A Pond of Reeds“, which made it even harder for her to win an award..
It was such a good opportunity, but she missed it.
The phone rang suddenly, and Ashley smiled excitedly. “It’s Henry!”
Hazel smiled and motioned for Ashley to take the call “Go ahead and answer it but you must listen to me. Before Thomas comes out, you can’t go out to see anyone,” Hazel said.
Ashley nodded quickly.
“Henry!” After answering the phone, Ashley was still a little flustered, and she had a shy look on her face.
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Ashley probably really had feelings for Henry, but her love for vanity exceeded her love for Henry,
“Ashley, I come to your place, but I didn’t see you. Where are you?” Henry pretended to be worried.
“Henry! You went to find me?” Ashley was nervous, yet disappointed.
If only she was at home.
e with me?” Henry
“You’re not at home? Don’t wander about these days. If you are scared to be alone, why don’t you come and live asked lightly. On the other end of the phone, there was the sound of a lighter lighting up a cigarette.
Ashley was very excited. She almost agreed, but she remembered Hazel’s words. “Henry, c–can I do t currently at a friend’s house recuperating, so…
–
“Oh, is that so? I really wanted to take care of you… Forget it, then Henry pretended to be disappointed.
a few days? I’m
“Henry…” Ashley was a little anxious. Seeing that Hazel had gone to the living room, she answered cautiously, “Henry, where are you?”
I’m at Santalum Alley. Today, I discussed the divorce with Josie, and I suddenly wanted to live with you,” said Henry.
Ashley’s palms were sweating. She was afraid that if she missed that opportunity, Henry would change his mind.
Besides, she was wary of Josie. “What if… What if Henry falls for Josie’s sweet talk?” Ashley thought
ry, wait for me there, I’ll be right there!” Ashley decided to meet Henry.
“Henry,
She could not afford to miss the opportunity.
As for Hazel, she only needed to achieve her goal.
Ashley believed that Henry would not hurt her.
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Chapter 249
In the coffee shop on Santalum Alley, Henry furrowed his brows. “Zachary made the fatal mistake of impulsively finding Ashley which landed him in Ashley’s trap. He is currently being sued by Ashley for… assault.”
Josie sat up straight in her chair as a result of her surprise. “Zachary has always been cautious, right?”
She wondered, “How could he act so impulsively?”
“Zachary only stated that Ashley provoked him verbally and tempted him by clarifying his father’s crimes.”
Samuel knitted his brows too. “It’ll be very troublesome.”
If Ashley didn’t withdraw the lawsuit, Zachary would surely be found guilty because he had a criminal record of harming Ashley.
Henry spoke while leaning against the chair. “Spike’s men were unable to find Ashley because she was concealed and guarded by Hazel. I was able to trick her into coming out by calling. Since we can’t be there, especially Josie, we simply have to wait and watch what Spike will do.”
Henry thought to himself,
*Ashley gave me a call and asked me to question you about Zachary, She may have wanted to threaten me, or she may have desired a fair exchange in which I would withdraw the case and release Thomas.” Josie made a guess.
Henry nodded. “That’s exactly what she wants:
“What a bad woman…” Samuel clenched Josie’s fingers.
“Zachary won’t be in any danger, at least Josie consoled herself.
“Yeah.” Henry nodded and ignited a cigarette, but as he thought of Josie, he extinguished it.
“Have you been smoking a lot lately? Samuel furrowed his brows.
Henry did not respond.
Josie didn’t inquire because she wasn’t involved with Henry anymore. She no longer could or would care too much about him.
“Take good care of Josie. If you don’t withdraw the case, Ashley will not let it slide. Thomas obeys Ashley’s every word, so he will definitely hurt Josie if he is released Henry was worried about Josie’s safety.
“I will.” Samuel didn’t say much to not provoke Henry.
Henry didn’t dare to look at Josie because he was afraid.
Outside of the coffee shop, Ashley sneaked out to meet Henry without notifying Hazel. She was full of joy.
However, before she could walk out of the alley, someone stopped her.
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The gangster in the lead swung his knife. “Is that you, Ashley? I heard you put Zach in jail.”
Ashley’s face tumed pale as she slowly stepped back.
She forced herself to calm down and wanted to call Henry for help.
They were very close to each other because Henry was just on the other side of the street.
Despite that, her phone was thrown to the ground by the gangsters.
Ashley pretended to be calm. “What do you want? We’re in broad daylight, and there are people on the street.”
The leader sneered. “If you dare, scream. I’ll see who dares to help you. We’ll harass you every day if you don’t withdraw the case. You’re a celebrity, right? When I strip you off and take pictures, I’ll see if you’ll withdraw the case.”
Ashley’s face grew paler as she realized that the gangsters clearly dared to do anything they wanted. “Don’t touch me! You best get out of here because my boyfriend is right across the street”
The gangsters sneered. “Your boyfriend? Do you mean Henry?”
Ashley stepped back nervously,
“We initially had trouble locating you, but eventually did so by just keeping a watch on him. Do you honestly believe he will rescue you?”
In the coffee shop, Henry received a call from Ashley for help. Although the phone only vibrated once, he knew that Spike’s men
must have blocked her,
Henry frowned slightly and rubbed the spot between his eyebrows.
Then, he thought,
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Nina looked at Leonardo in shock. “What he said was true? He wasn’t lying? So, it’s true that he had fallen for me back when I was still doing my academic research abroad? Then why didn’t he pursue me earlier and wasted so many years for nothing instead? I can’t believe him…” she thought
Her heartbeat accelerated a little. For the first time in her life, Nina truly understood how it felt to be embarrassed.
When she was with Gabriel, she felt that since she was getting older, it was time to reassure her family that she had somebody by her side. Otherwise, her grandfather would be worried.
Besides, her grandfather became seriously ill that year, and the doctor announced that he was critically ill. Everyone in the Turner family thought that Lewis would not be able to survive, and Lewis said that his wish was that Nina and her three siblings would get married soon
As the eldest sister among her siblings, Nina naturally had to set an example and lead by example.
Later, Lewis was bound to a wheelchair for a long time. Nina was also afraid that her grandfather would always be worried about
them.
Then, she met Gabriel. He was sweet with his words and obedient at first. He came from a poor family background and was easy to control. She didn’t expect that she was inviting trouble for herself instead.
Fortunately, she didn’t suffer any losses in the few years they were married, She only lost some money and was angry, but she didn’t let him take advantage of her body at all.
In fact, even if they had consummated their marriage, Nina still wouldn’t care.
Society was still too harsh on women. While it seemed acceptable for a man to have many women, a woman could only have one
man.
However, it seemed that Leonardo didn’t care either, as he didn’t know about all this back when he made her get the marriage certificate with him.
“Dad, Mom, Grandpa, I will treat Nina well in the future. I will help her to bear her burden, accompany her, protect her, and be her support. Don’t worry.” Leonardo took the monetary gifts from Lewis and Nina’s parents and addressed them as his own family.
“Okay,
- v. good, Lewis smiled with satisfaction. He hit it off like old friends with Leonardo’s father as well.
he got off the plane, he rushed here in a hurry. Only after he arrived did he realize he
George came back slightly late. As soon as he
knew Leonardo’s father.
“Oh, Mr. Langford, what a coincidence!”
George was shocked.
Leonardo’s father also leaped to his feet in shock and shook hands with George. “What a coincidence! Our collaboration was three years ago, wasn’t it? If we had known that we would one day become in-laws, then we would definitely have kept in touch no matter
what.”
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George nodded in agreement. “Yes, this is fate indeed!”
The entire family couldn’t be happier.
Josin was also happy for Nina and sat at the table, holding Samuel’s hand tightly.
“Do you want to get a monetary gift too?” Samuel asked with a smile as if he was tempting her.
Josie smiled, “No…
“Don’t lie. As long as you change the way you address the elders, you will receive monetary gifts from them too,” Samuel continued, tempting her.
“Oh…” Josie turned to look at Samuel. “But… you’ll suffer losses. Look, Nina received monetary gifts, and Mr. Turner and Mrs. Turner also gave Leonardo monetary gifts. However, if I receive monetary gifts from your family, no one… will give you any.”
Josie feigned light-heartedness as she spoke, but in fact, her voice was trembling.
She merely felt it was unfair that she had no one.
There was no one in her family.
Samuel’s heart tightened instantly, and he regretted asking the question.
He reached out and pulled Josie into his arms, disregarding the fact that there were so many elders around.
Josie sat up straight in panic.
“It doesn’t matter. I’ll ask for a monetary gift from Henry. He is a member of the Gibson family, meaning he’s a member of your family. If he doesn’t give it to me, I won’t spare him. Samuel gritted his teeth.
was amused by Samuel. “Do you
Josic
you have to be so cruel?”
Although Henry
ry was i
indeed a member of the Gibson family, he was still her ex-husband.
If Josie and Samuel got married and had to ask Josie’s ex-husband for a monetary gift, that would seem really mean to the latter
Samuel was relieved when he saw Josie laughing.
In the suburbs, in a shabby warehouse, Ashley was bruised all over, and her clothes were torn and ragged. She lay on the dirty and messy bed as if she had lost her soul, and her tears had dried up.
No matter how she cried and shouted, those people wouldn’t let her go.
They were all Spike’s men, and all of them were crazy.
“Come take a look at this video. It’s a good one. She’s really a
a star!”
“Are we in the video? Don’t let it show my face, or this bi*ch will use it against me later.”
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Ashley lay there in despair, and tears gushed out of her eyes again.
They did it to her one by one, and then they took a video, using it to threaten her.
“Be sensible and drop the case at once. Just clarify to the police and tell them to release Zach, or else… If this video gets out, not only is your acting career over, it might be difficult for you to even get married”
Ashley looked up in a panic and struggled madly.
She was not afraid of losing her acting career. She was afraid that Henry would not want her.
As she had come so far with great difficulty, she would absolutely not allow herself to lose what she had.
She had used all her means and schemes, causing harm to so many people before she arrived at this point.
Crying to the point of exhaustion, Ashley curled up
and the
thought, ‘Is this retribution?”
Since the day she slandered Jeremy, she should have expected her retribution.
But she was not willing to give up or admit defeat.
She simply would not.
“I’ve suffered all this. So, why… Why can’t I get everything I want?” she thought..
“No… Give me the video…” Ashley cried and reached out to get it.
However, the men not only refused to give it to her but also insulted her even more severely.
After crying until she was utterly exhausted, Ashley finally agreed, “The case will be withdrawn. Please give me all the video footage…
the rest, when Zachary comes out, we will naturally… destroy
“I’ll give you this one first. You can go home and enjoy it yourself. As for the re
them.”
Ashley did not really trust those people, but she had no choice.
“I can’t…. Henry must never know. He would definitely
taly dislike
me and would definitely not want me. No way,” she thought.
Late at night, Ashley came back to her residence alone, walking in a soulless state and staggering like a machine that had lost its
Downstairs, Henry had been leaning against the car and smoking for some time.
He was not here to wait for Ashley, but to see the consequences of her actions.
Seeing that she had been taken away by Spike’s men, he knew without having to guess what despicable means they would use
That was also the reason why he had tried his best to protect Josie from being targeted by Spike’s men over the years.
ry would notice.
“Henry…” Ashley choked and wanted to rush to him, but she suddenly realized that she was dirty and was afraid Henry
Ashley f
forcefully suppressed the sound and hid behind the trash can in the residential area, simply watching him from a distance.
Henry leaned against the car and smoked for a long time, and Ashley watched him the whole time, feeling touched and crying.
“Henry must have feelings for me, right? Otherwise… why would he wait downstairs till now? He must have failed to reach my phone just now, and then… he got so anxious to the point that he had no choice but to wait downstairs,” she mused.
Ashley regretted it so much that her chest hurt. “How nice it would be if only I had always appeared in front of Henry as an innocent person. How I wish I could dedicate my best and cleanest self to him. As long as he is willing to accept it…” she thought.
She regretted it, and she truly understood her mistake.
However, there was no way out for her.
Since the moment she was abandoned by her family in the orphanage all because she was a girl, she had no way out
Her life was ruined.
If she did not climb the ladder with all she had, she would forever be stepped upon by others. She would be humiliated by the
caregivers at the orphanage and bullied by others.
Initially, she was also a timid and kind-hearted person. It was the darkness of society that forced her step by step till she reached her
present point.
She had no way out, and she would never give up either.
“Why should I be the only one who’s ruined? Why should I take all this by myself? I want Josie to experience what I’ve experienced! It doesn’t matter that I was ruined by others, but I want Josie to suffer the same! Even if I go to hell, I would pull her along!” she
thought.
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Josie and Samuel were at Samuel’s residence
Josie followed Samuel back home and was already feeling sleepy when they got there. “Nina is lucky”
“Are you envious of her? Samuel closed the door and pressed Josie in the corner. He lowered his head and ki*sed her, gently brushing her l*ps with his.
“I used to feel as if I had been labeled as a divorcee by the entire world after the divorce, and I thought I would never meet the right person again… Josie lowered her head and whispered again, “But things turn out the opposite… Look how lucky Nina and I are. We both have met the right person.”
Josie stood on tiptoe and held Samuel’s cheek to ki*s him again
Meanwhile, at the police station in Hofcaster.
Zachary was released from prison because Ashley had personally dismissed the case, saying she had not been substantially injured and decided not to pursue the matter.
Zachary lit a cigarette as soon as he left the police station.
Henry was waiting for him outside the police station.
“You… helped me?” Zachary y was a little curious and wondered, “What method did Henry use to make a woman like Ashley change
her mind?”
“Not me. It was Spike.” Henry looked up, and his eyes were bloodshot. He looked as if he barely had enough sleep.
“Did you not sleep well because you were worried about me?” Zachary teased Henry
how Spike did it?” Henry’s voice was a little hoarse.
“Don’t you want to know how
you
“It’s definitely not in a good way anyway. Spike is… Zachary shook his head.
“Let’s go. Spike asked me to pick you up and take you back to the gang. Obviously, Spike was trying to intimidate Henry by asking him to pick up Zachary deliberately.
Spike probably suspected that Henry also had a part in framing Zachary.
“Spike must have trusted you very much now. However, this person is vigilant, so you’ll still need to pay more attention to him. Once he… Henry glanced at Zachary
“I have nothing to worry about now.” Zachary smiled.
Ashley had also confessed to Zachary about their father’s death. Zachary believed justice would be served for their father’s
grievances one day.
e was dead or alive anymore.
Therefore, Zachary didn’t care whether he
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After all, Zachary initially could not find the reason to be alive either,
Henry glanced at Zachary and knew that he was giving up on himself. You can’t do anything stupid before the matter is solved. Don’t you want to see your father’s grievances redressed?”
Zachary nodded. “Don’t worry. I’m on my guard.”
Henry breathed a sigh of relief and drove to the gang.
take
“Before we take down Spike, we need to find a way to get rid of Hazel and Silas and use Spike to let them fight each other,” said Henry.
Zachary nodded in agreement. He had thought about the same thing too.
Meanwhile, Ashley was at Hazel’s residence.
Ashley was hiding in the corner and kept crying.
Hazel was furious that Ashley was disobedient. However, Ashley reaped what she sowed and couldn’t blame others but herself for putting herself at risk.
*We can’t let Henry know anything about this matter. No man can accept that his woman is tarnished.” Hazel frowned. “If you truly want to marry Henry, these things must be destroyed.”
Ashley cried as she shook her head. “What should I do? What am I supposed to do? Thomas is not here… No one is truly willing to
help me.”
“Josie has no direct evidence to prove that Thomas is involved in the kidnap. I will find a way to help you find Thomas, but you must not be reckless anymore. If there is another one, no one can help you,” Hazel said as she muttered to herself, “Ashley, you’re such an idiot…”
However, Ashley was still of use to Hazel now. The more information she had on Ashley, the more reassured she was.
As long as Ashley successfully married Henry, Hazel would have enough leverage in her hand to let Ashley listen to her.
Ashley certainly didn’t know what Hazel was up to. After all, Hazel was Henry’s biological mother.
She just wanted to please Hazel
“I will be obedient.” Ashley nodded quickly.
“Well, stop crying. While Henry is still guilty because of you, try to get him to divorce Josie as soon as possible and then marry your Hazel was a little impatient.
“I will. Ashley nodded.
Nina was at the mansion in Ritaville Bay.
Nina followed Leonardo back to their marital house that night
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10
no odor of new renovation in the house, which could only mean that it had long been renovated.
There was no
Leonardo really took great pains.
Nina glanced at Leonardo. “How long have you been planning this? I just discovered that you’re a scary person.”
“Glad you know that. You’d better be afraid of me. Don’t even try to escape.” Leonardo smiled.
“Which one is my room?” Nina looked at the surrounding environment. The decoration style was even her favorite post–modern minimalist style.
“Follow me.” Leonardo took
ok Nina’s wrist and led her into the master’s bedroom.
On the bed, there
was a bank card and a small box.
“This is a bank card. The password is my birthday.” Leonardo smiled.
Nina rolled her eyes. “I don’t know your birthday. Besides, I’m not short on money.”
“I don’t care if you’re short on money. Since we’re married, you have to spend your husband’s money” Leonardo put his arms around Nina’s waist. Remember my birthday…”
Nina blushed. “Are you a playboy? Why are you so good at flirting?”
“I’m talented at this. I’ll only flirt with you.” Leonardo really had a way with words.
Nina felt helpless. She thought, “This man… He’s giving off his charms everywhere.”
you a diamond ring when we get married.” Leonardo
“This is the couple rings. I had asked someone to design it previously. Il give y took out the ring and helped Nina put it on. “Let me put it on for you.”
Nina
was shocked as the ring size was perfectly suitable for her finger. “Who have you found to investigate me so thoroughly?”
“I’m not going to tell you.” Leonardo just smiled.
“This is Lois‘ design. It takes a month to be ready, even if it’s custom–made. You already knew that I would marry you on impulse…. month ago?” Nina was utterly shocked.
“The moment I found out you
u were divorced, I already
dy knew this day would come,” Leonardo said proudly.
“You are so confident… Didn’t you ever think that all your effort would be in vain?”
“1, Leonardo, don’t invest in things that I’m not confident in, Leonardo said,
Nina was amused.
Nina wanted to punch this man so badly. “How ruthless
you ar
are. What a ruthless man…”
“Do
like it? Leonardo asked.
“Well, the design looks nice,” Nina said truthfully without hiding her feelings
Chapter 251
“I’m glad you like it!” sair
said Leonardo.
“Gabriel’s face was so gloomy today.” Nina was still feeling surreal as if she was dreaming.
“I guess he’ll come back the next day to beg you.” Leonardo sat on the bed.
Nina glanced at Leonardo. “What did you
do?
“Of course, I have to back up my wife.” Leonardo laughed harmlessly.
“Okay, you can go out now. I want to sleep.” Nina began to chase Leonardo off.
“This is my bedroom. Why should I leave?” Leonardo said roguishly.
“Didn’t you say…” Nina gritted her teeth. “Okay, I’ll leave.”
“No, you’re my wife. We’re a legal couple, and I have to fulfill my obligations. A… Asexual marriage is a crime,” said Leonardo.
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Leonardo, don’t go too far Nina clenched her fists. “Let me make this clear Ground rules. Don’t touch me until I say so.”
“We’re just sleeping together. What were you thinking?” Leonardo looked as if Nina was the one who had dirty thoughts.
Nina’s face turned red with anger. She shook off Leonardo and walked out of the room.
However, she walked around the house and found that the other bedrooms did not even have beds.
“Leonardo, you win!” shouted Nina.
Leonardo smiled. “Darling. I’m sleepy. I’ll take a shower first.”
Meanwhile, at Samuel’s house.
“Jo, help me take the bath towel,” said Samuel,
Josie got up from the bed and took the bath towel for Samuel.
As soon as she entered the bathroom, she was held by Samuel and pressed against the wall.
Josie instantly blushed. “You did it on purpose…”
Samuel deliberately left out the bath towel so he could flirt with her…
Samuel smiled. “You’re right. I did it on purpose.”
“You… You’re wet. Don’t touch me.” Josie took a step back but was pulled back by Samuel again.
“Jo… Am I dreaming? Samuel’s breath was burning.
Josie nodded. “Let me bite you and see if it hurts.”
Samuel smiled as he moved his neck toward Josie. “Do it…”
Josie’s heart palpitated. She bit him on tiptoe but didn’t dare to exert too much force.
Samuel’s body stiffened a little, and he took a deep breath, Only Josie… could turn him on. “Jo, you started this. You have to finish it yourself.”
“You… You asked me to bite you.” Josie lowered her head.
“I don’t care. I’ll have to bite you back.” Samuel held Josie’s chin with a wicked smile and ki*sed her.
Josie didn’t resist, and her tensed–up body slowly relaxed.
Yuri drove to Clusia Media Group. He parked the car and watched Madelyn slowly get out of the car as if she had something to hide
and then walked away sneakily.
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Yuri looked at the back of that sneaky person helplessly and sighed.
“Good morning, Madelyn” a colleague greeted Madelyn.
“Madelyn, are you free at noon? Shall we have dinner together?” a male colleague mustered up his courage to talk to her
Madelyn rejected him with a smile. Im so sorry. I’ve brought my own meal.”
“Next time, then!” The male colleague smiled. White waiting for the elevator, he asked Madelyn in a low voice, “Do you mind me asking you a question? Do you have a boyfriend?”
Madelyn instantly thought of Yuri. “Yes. I have a boyfriend.”
Yun happened to walk over behind them. When he heard Madelyn say she had a boyfriend, he smiled and thought, “At least you still thought of me.”
“That’s a shame. I wonder if I have
e a chanc
chance… to compete
ete with you
a
your boyfriend.” The male colleague was a little disappointed.
“My boyfriend is a very nice guy and treats me well. We have a stable relationship, Madelyn said with a smile.
“That’s a pity” said the male colleague.
Yuri stood behind Madelyn and snickered. He thought, “Am I that nice?”
“Hello, Mr. Yancey.” Someone spotted Yuri.
“Mr. Yancey… Is the special elevator broken? Why are you waiting here?” a colleague beside him asked.
“I suddenly wanted to come to the grassroots to observe the situation here.” Yuri smiled.
Madelyn looked back at Yuri and instantly blushed. She wondered, “How long has he been standing behind me? Did he hear everything I said?”
The elevator arrived, and Yuri followed the employees into the elevator.
It was a little crowded inside the elevator. Yuri subconsciously pulled Madelyn into his arms and let her lean on him.
Madelyn also snickered and muttered to herself. “This man… refused to take the special elevator and insisted on taking the crowded
lift with me.”
“Bring me a cup of coffee at noon. Don’t make fish fillet tomorrow. Make something else. Yuri said faintly before Madelyn left the elevator with the colleague who pursued her.
She…
Madelyn’s hair instantly stood up. Si
wondered, “Was he trying to disclose their relationship?”
The male colleague also looked at Madelyn in surprise. He asked carefully only after the elevator door closed, “Madelyn, what’s your relationship with Mr. Yancey?”
“Ah…” Madelyn hurriedly explained, fearing that the office romance would bring trouble to Yuri. “Mr. Yancey’s assistant was on leave.
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Chapter 252
I’ve been responsible for preparing Mr. Yancey’s meals recently”
Tortunately, the male colleague didn’t think too much.
Madelyn breathed a sigh of relief and took out her mobile phone to send Yuri a message, blaming him: [What were you trying to do just now? Office romance will have a negative impact on you, and your image will collapse in the heart of employees.]
Yuri texted back with a snorting emoji: [The CEO was the one who started the office romance first.]
to the CEO is. Is his wife in the
Madelyn felt as if she had heard the big news and replied: [CEO? Office romance? I don’t even know who the company too? Who? Who is she? Please tell me!]
Madelyn could not hide her excitement from gossiping.
Yuri replied mysteriously. You know her, too.]
Madelyn raised her hand to cover her mouth. She thought, “It’s someone I know? Can it be… from our
media department?”
Madelyn was shocked and replied: [Tell me more information.]
Yuri replied: [She’s a beautiful woman.]
Madelyn texted back: [Oh my goodness! Our department is full of beautiful women! How am I supposed to know? Just tell me. Trust me. The last thing I want to do is to offend our CEO’s wife without knowing it!]
Yuri replied: [Not in your department.]
Madelyn was even more shocked. She thought, “Not in the media department? There are even more people in other departments. It’s someone she knows and is even a beautiful woman. There are too many beautiful women in Clusia Media Group. It’s difficult to guess.” Madelyn pondered for a while and texted back: [Why don’t you directly tell me her name? I absolutely keep it confidential.]
The more Yuri refused to tell her, the more impatient Madelyn became.
Yuri re
replied: [Don’t worry. You’ll know it soon.]
Yuri went to the CEO’s office.
“Mr. Turner, I’d like to ask how you and Josie managed to work together without being discovered by Josie, Yuri teased Samuel
a smile.
Samuel smiled, “I told her my studio has a partnership with Clusia Media Group, and I’m here to discuss the collaboration this time.”
“Well, you’re so brilliant. You might want to think about how you want to apologize or explain to her when your identity is exposed one day” Yuri gloated.
*Jo is very gentle and won’t go hard on me,” Samuel said proudly as if he e was showing off
Josie’s gentleness toward
Yuri.
“Do you think I’m still a single man who knew nothing about love like before?” Yuri snorted.
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“Your girlfriend is not gentle. Samuel’s words were like a sharp blade stabbing into Yuri’s heart.
“I’m happy! I like this kind of woman!” Yuri was almost about to slam the table.
“Did your girlfriend let you touch her?” asked Samuel,
Yuri was rendered speechless and looked at Samuel in shock. “You’re so deeply in love that you had to announce it to the world, huh? Stop showing off.”
“Did your girlfriend make you feel loved?* Samuel continued to show off.
“Fine. You win! How are we going to solve the problem of Turner Corporation’s project? Do you want me to ask someone to go after Gabriel? Yuri quickly changed the topic.
He was afraid that Samuel would say something that stabbed him in the heart again.
“There’s no need to solve it anymore. Nina had carried too much responsibility alone… Samuel smiled.
y after she
“I hope you don’t mind me saying this. You can’t let Nina bear everything alone. Life has been too difficult for her, especially met a scumbag like Gabriel. I can’t even stand to see her like that.” Yuri was lecturing Samuel.
“My sister has remarried. Guess who the man is.” Samuel held his forehead helplessly
Yuri opened his mouth in shock. “So soon?”
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Chapter 253
Yuri had a curious look on his face. Who did our sister marry? Who’s the lucky one this time?”
“Leonardo Langford, Samuel said without hiding anything.
Before Yuri could react, he had already taken a few steps before abruptly turning around. “Who?”
“Leonardo, Samuel repeated.
“Are you sure you don’t have a fever?”
r? Yuri walked back and touched Samuel’s forehead.
“What? Do you think my sister is not good enough for Leonardo?” Samuel narrowed his eyes.
“That’s not true!” Yuri laughed. “But is this for real?”
“You’ll find out soon… The wedding reception will be held at our home.” Samuel sat back in his chair. “My sister has a strong personality. She has to be ahead of us in everything we do, so it’s only natural for her to marry before us.”
“How exciting… You’re all family now”
w” Yuri appeared ecstatic. “How about the Turner Corporation investment?”
“I don’t need his help. Samuel was a man with a strong ego. He couldn’t and wouldn’t beg Leonardo for assistance because of their current relationship. This is the only way he can ensure his sister’s status in their family.
“Don’t be upset. When you overlook this relationship, the two companies are still working together.” Yuri tried to convince him
otherwise.
Meanwhile, in the base of the Taibbi family’s gang.
“How are you enjoying your two days off, Zach?” Spike unexpectedly showed up to see Zachary
Zachary was flattered. “Mr. Taibbi! I’m sorry for causing you trouble.”
“There is no such thing as trouble. To be more specific, this situation was entirely my fault. When Silas Cox left, he took too many hidden dangers with him. Now that he wants to target me, he can only do so by targeting you guys.” Spike patted Zachary on the
shoulder.
“I need you to pick up a piece of merchandise later in the afternoon. It’s a little troublesome. You must exercise extreme caution. Can you pull it off?”
Zachary hurriedly nodded. “You I can always rely on me, Mr. Taibbi!”
Spike nodded with satisfaction.
Although it was only a small deal this time, he was using it to put Zachary to the test. If Zachary did a good job on the small deal this time, he would bring Zachary along for all future big deals. When Silas left, he realized he had no one that he could rely on. That was why he must train someone to take Silas‘ place as soon as possible. Silas became arrogant after working with him for so long. “Who know Silas would dare to start a new business with the resources I had? What audacity” Spike scoffed inwardly.
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Chapter 253
“I’m hoping you’ll be able to adjust quickly. You will be working for me from now on, and as long as you do well, I will not treat you poorly!” Spike said
“Thank you very much, Mr. Taibbi. I’ll do my best! Zachary hurriedly nodded.
Spike was satisfied and turned to leave.
“Spike is gradually letting go of his vigilance, Zachary thought as he took a deep breath. “It won’t be long before I get what Henry
wants.”
Zachary was concerned after sending a message to Henry.
“Spike is an overly cautious individual. He must have thought of a safe way out. Henry and I would be in danger if our plan failed.” Zachary was unconcerned about himself as it made no difference to him if he lost his life.
“However, Henry… Zachary rubbed his temples, his mind racing. “Henry is also a pitiful soul” After a while of getting along, he realized he didn’t hate Henry anymore,
[Keep it going] That was Henry’s response to Zachary,
at the future might hold.
Zachary deleted the message, lay on his bed, and began to contemplate the future as he did not know what
He had already dealt with Spike, Silas, and Hazel Locke. All that was left was to settle things with Ashley.
He didn’t see why he should continue to be by Josie’s side. After everything was said and done, he would leave this city and roam around freely.
At Silas’s residence.
“I’m back, Silas,” Sergio announced when he arrived home. He finally returned after years of hiding outside.
Sergio was imprisoned for several years following the car accident involving the now–deceased Hayden Gibson and Kathy Yates. He was sent abroad by Hazel and Silas after his release.
“How come you can’t even learn to behave yourself, especially when we’re all in trouble?” Silas reprimanded angrily, with a deep frown on his face and a cigarette in his hand.
“I’m already at this age. How many more years do you want me to stay outside? Sergio smoked a cigarette as well. “I don’t want to go out anymore. I want to marry Hazel and start a family.”
“Marriage?” Silas gave an ironic smile. “Is that woman even interested in marrying you? You’re se gullible.”
“Don’t say that about her. Hazel used to be very kind, Sergio frowned.
“Only you believe that,” Silas sighed. “The case against Hayden and Kathy was never closed, and the prosecution period has not yet ended; please be more cautious and don’t let Hazel take advantage of you again.”
ng to fear anymore.” Sergio said quietly
“I know. The prosecution period will soon be over. I be free soon. I have nothing to
He spoke once more. “About the car accident, Hazel simply told me to stop Hayden and Kathy from returning to Hofcaster. Hayden’s
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death was actually the result of my s selfishness”
“You’re such a gullible fool! Hazel has manipulated and exploited you, and yet you’re still here defending her,” Silas scoffed in disbelief.
“If something really does happen, I will be solely responsible. I’m not going to let Hazel get involved, Sergio said as he was still protecting Hazel.
“You fool!” Silas was at a loss for words with his brother.
“If Sergio found Hazel would do anything for money, including having an affair with me, he’d probably go insane.” Silas didn’t want to provoke Sergio, so he put out the cigarette butt and stood up to leave.
At Henry’s residence.
“Sergeant Jennings, Sergio has returned to the country.” Henry examined the photo in his hand, which he discovered after asking someone to look into Hazel.
Caden Jennings had never
r given
up on Hayden’s case, so he was well aware of the situation. “What are your plans?”
“Zachary has earned Spike’s trust. As long as there is fatal evidence against Spike, the police will have him arrested,” Henry spoke in
a hoarse voice.
“Yeah,” Caden spoke once more. “It’s dangerous, and you’re not a cop; Zachary is now also my informant, so I have to protect him.
“I’ll see to it that he’s safe, Henry said as he had no other option.
“But who will keep you safe? Sergio, Spike, and Hazel are all insane. You- Caden was at a loss for words because he felt sorry for Henry.
“The child born of two lunatics…” He was concerned that Henry’s actions were too extreme.
“Sergeant Jennings, all you have to do is promise me that you will not let any of the bad guys go free, this will allow Josie’s parents to rest in peace, and Spike and Hazel will receive the punishment they deserve. Just leave everything else to me.” Henry said before taking a deep breath
“I still want to warn you, Henry. Don’t go too far. Your life is far too enviable. Everything must adhere to the law. I will arrest you if you dare to break the law!” Caden wished Henry would keep his cool.
Henry said nothing but smiled weakly.
Nobody could stop him from doing what he had decided to do.
“Spike’s men attempted to harm Ashley and threatened her with videos. This is also proof. Please keep it safe, Sergeagt Jennings.”
“You knew Spike’s men were going to make a move on Ashley- Caden couldn’t stand on the moral high ground and blame Henry.
but he was a cop!
“Some people cannot be sanctioned by the law; they must be harassed by someone else of like mind. Henry sneered
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“It had been a while since Ashley framed Jeremy. Even if the case was turned over now, there was no evidence to prove Ashley’s guilt. Besides, Ashley was still a minor at the time. Therefore, no one could convict Ashley. She was extremely cautious. Thomas was the conduit for everything she did to Josie. In the end, as long as Thomas takes the blame, she is free to go.” Henry was deep in thought. He couldn’t let that happen, Even if he went to hell, he would still take Ashley with him.
“Henry, you must remain rational, especially now that everything is improving and Josie’s condition is stabilizing.” Caden sighed.
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After hanging up the phone, Henry pinched the space between his brows in frustration.
He was starting to feel a little listless as he lay on the couch.
Just then, a loud bang came from the door accompanied by Charles‘ furious roar. “Henry! Come out here, you coward! How could you just leave the entire company in my care, you prick?”
In the past, Charles was angry that he did not get to have a say in company matters because Henry was in charge of running it.
However, there was no pleasing Charles, for he was still angry even after Henry had delegated the power to him.
“Didn’t I already transfer Jo’s shares to you? And didn’t we agree that I’d transfer my shares to you at the current market price, too?” Henry countered evenly as he opened the door.
Charles grabbed Henry by the collar and hissed, “What are you playing here?”
It was precisely because everything was going so smoothly that Charles grew suspicious.
He had been fighting with Henry for so many years, and they could not stand the sight of each other. That being said, there were moments when they commiserated with one another, too.
“What, are you unhappy now that you’ve gotten what you wanted all along? Henry asked sarcastically, snorting.
“You gave me your shares, and I’ve already seen the contract that you had your lawyer draw up for the transfer You even gave Quinton a portion of the shares, too. So, what are you up to? Are you actually going to leave Gibson Corporation?” Charles was
anxious
“You might want to keep it a secret if you still want what you’ve been longing for,” Henry warned gravely. It seemed as if his lawyer
had been careless,
“And w
you… you even left all your money and family assets to Josia.” Charles was still clutching Henry’s collar as he took a deep breath and said urgently, “Come on, Henry, don’t scare me like this. Are you actually going to leave Hofcaster and start a business of
your own?”
“Yes,” Henry answered nonchalantly with no intention of explaining further.
“Are you out of your mind?” Charles demanded. He wanted nothing more than to beat some sense into Henry at that moment.
“You’re just going to give up everything because Josie doesn’t want you anymore?”
Henry made no reply.
“That stubborn, huh?” Charles turned away from Henry. He had to tell Josie that Henry was behaving oddly.
“Charles, you know as well as I do what’s at stake here. If others were to find out about this, then don’t even think about getting any of my shares, Henry threatened grimly.
Charles stopped in his tracks and inhaled sharply. “Like I care about those shares. Don’t try to threaten me, damn it.”
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He was not going to let Henry embark on the wrong. path. No amount of shares was worth
the
consequences of that decision
“Everything in the Gibson family never belonged to me, anyway. Are you doubting my ability to start from scratch, or are you worried that I might become your top rival in the future?” Henry asked half jokingly.
Charles frowned, but he breathed a sigh of relief. He might not have anything to worry about if those were Henry’s honest thoughts. “Since young, you’ve always been the sort to torture yourself for the sake of pride”
“Don’t breathe a word of this to Josie. Her condition just got better, and so has her relationship with Samuel. I can’t have her worrying about me, Henry bit out.
“What condition?” Charles asked, frowning.
“Jo… has been suffering from leukemia. She just finished the first round of treatment and she needs someone to take care of her. Her body can’t take any more strain, Henry explained with a bitter smile.
Charles might be a prick, but he was kind to Josie.
The only reason Henry had willingly given Charles his shares was so that Charles would stop involving Josie in his schemes, and would properly take care of her for a change.
ne Jo was sick?”
“You bastard!” Charles cursed angrily. “Why didn’t you tell me.
“I only found out after the fact…” Henry confessed, his smile still bitter.
Charles took a deep breath to calm himself. “You’re the worst, Henry…”
“Yes, indeed.” Henry nodded. “Which is why I’m hoping to prove myself by starting from scratch somewhere new
Charles was silent for a long time before he finally nodded and conceded, “Fine, then. I’ll keep this from Josie for now
Henry nodded curtly.
“As for the company, I believe you’ll run it well.” Henry looked at Charles steadily, and his voice broke as he added, “Grandpa poured his blood, sweat, and tears into the company. It’s the foundation and empire built by both the Gibson family and the Larson family. I contributed nothing to its success… In other words, I don’t deserve any part of it
“That’s not true. You wouldn’t have been in charge of the reins if you weren’t capable. As much as i hate to admit it… you’ve contributed more to Gibson Corporation than I have all these years.” Charles praised Henry reluctantly, averting the latter’s gaze.
Charles could deny it all he wanted, but Henry really had done more for the company than he ever could.
“All these years, I’ve given the company everything I’ve got and completely neglected Jo… It’s my fault for feeling so inferior to everyone else that I work so hard to prove myself. I wanted to prove that I can manage Gibson Corporation better than my predecessors… I wanted to show Josie that I can launch the company to greater heights…”
His inferiority played a huge role in the way things had turned out between him and Josie.
Charles gaped at Henry in disbelief. “I can’t believe he’s telling me all this like we’re having a heart–to–heart,” he thought in surprise.
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Interior? A perfect man like you? I can’t even count
unt the
times my grandpa compared me to you when I was a kid. When I grow up, my dad started comparing the both of us, too! I was so sick of hearing your name that I would lose my appetite at the mention of it!” Charles snapped irritably.
Henry smiled. “Bemoan about how I always outshine you if you want, but now that I’m leaving the company for good, you’ll finally get the recognition you deserve.”
“What do you mean? Are you trying to say that I’m always going to live in your shadow? Charles chuckled and lit up a cigarette, then handed one to Henry. “I’ll give you three years to make a name for yourself, but if you fall, you’d better come back right away.”
Henry laughed heartily. “You might want to watch your back by then because I’ll become your biggest rival.”
“You lost Josie to Samuel because you girlfriend,”
didn’t cherish her enough, Henry. You still have a long way to go. Learn to cherish your next
Henry took a long drag of his cigarette, and the smoke nearly choked him. Tears sprang to his eyes on roflex as he held back a
cough.
He did not think he could ever move on from Josie.
“All right, that’s enough bantering for a
Lot’s grab a meal when we both have the time. Out of sheer magnanimity, I’ll have a laugh with you and let bygones be bygones.” Charles concluded their conversation with a firm tap on Henry’s shoulder.
“Will you just go already?” Henry shoved Charles out of the door and closed it firmly to make a point.
“You prick!” Charles exclaimed, then sighed in resignation.
In any case, he could understand what Henry was going through, even if Henry could not. The family he was raised in had a great role to play in shaping one’s worldview.
Josie and Henry both had their own wounds to heal. In other words, they were both hurt.
As such, they grew a layer of spikes to protect themselves from harm.
They stubbornly tried to stay together, but they only ended up hurting each other.
The one thing that made Josie smarter than Henry was that she chose to be with Samuel.
Samuel grew up in a warm and happy family, which explained his wholesome personality. He was like a doctor who could take Josie’s hurt away and heal her properly,
Hopefully, there would be someone like that for Henry as well.
Unfortunately, Henry’s wounds went deeper than Josie’s, as far as Charles could tell.
Henry was covered in wounds from head to toe.
When Charles left Henry that day, he felt as if H
e wounds were physical, Henry would have bled himself dry.
if those
After Charles left, Henry returned to the couch and lay down quietly.
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“Forward the pictures of Hazel getting cozy with Silan to Sergio, just like we planned.”
mong the parties.
Henry could fully exact vengeance was by stirring up internal conflict among
y way Her
The only
He would not let those who had hurt him and Jonio get away unscathed, especially Hazel and Spike.
The biggest mistake they had made was to give birth to him in the first place.
宙
Chapter 255
When Zachary got out of jail, Ashley also stopped her antics. She kept hiding at home and did not dare to see anyone.
She did not dare to see Henry either.
However, Henry went to find her directly
“Ashley? Are you at home?” Henry knocked on the door.
Ashley cried and wanted to open the door for Henry, but she did not dare to do so.
She was afraid that one day Henry would know what h
had happened to her.
“Ashley, I know you are at home. Hazel called me just now and said that something had happened to you and she told me to see you, What happened?”
Ashley’s heart tightened and she ran to the door quickly.
Did Hazel ask him to come over?
Was Hazel creating an opportunity for her?
“Ashley, what’s wrong?” Henry asked softly as he looked at Ashley who had red eyes.
“Henry!” Ashley rushed up p and hugged Henry, crying pathetically.
“What’s wrong?” Henry resisted her touch, but
it he still pretended to be gentle.
“Nothing… Ashley shook her head in tears. “I just feel that since something so big has happened to me, it will definitely affect my career and future.”
“Don’t worry. When Josie and I divorce, you will live with me. Then, your popularity will come back slowly.” Henry’s voice showed that he had no feelings, but he spoke softly.
He was pretending to be gentle.
Naturally, Ashley did not understand it and she hugged Henry happily. “Henry, you’re so nice. Fortunately, I have you. Otherwise, I don’t know what to do. Thomas is not by my side. I’m so scared.”
“Don’t be afraid. I’ll find a way to deal with Thomas, but Ashley, you know… You should learn to get information that can be used against the people around you. Otherwise, they will be disobedient.” Henry deliberately reminded her
A moment later, he continued saying, “Hazel is such a person. You must be careful. It’s not that I’m prejudiced against her. What she likes most is to find out someone’s dark secret and then take the opportunity to threaten them. Don’t get too close to her”
Henry wanted to separate Hazel and Ashley.
ald have
Ashley’s face turned pale instantly. Hazel had too much control over her. If Hazel really threatened her in the future, she would
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Chapter 255
no choice but to obey her orders!
Ashley clenched her fingers in panic, and her heart was beating.
“What should I do?” she wondered.
“Ashley?” Henry called her name in a deep voice.
“Henry…” Ashley came back to her senses and her face turned pale with fear. “L… I’m okay”
“Take a good rest
Don’t think about nonsense. I will find a way to help you get Thomas out. Henry smiled.
“Henry, you’re so kind…” Ashley hugged Henry and sobbed.
Zachary has his eye on me. I may not be able to take care of you. You must protect yourself. Don’t get into trouble again” Henry pretended to be gentle.
“Henry, don’t worry. I won’t bother you.” Ashley nodded, but she was flustered.
“If Hazel really threatens me, then…” she thought.
“Hazel has been using our relationship and asked me to help Silns. This woman prioritizes profit, and feelings are worthless to her.” Henry looked irritated.
Ashley was
even more uneasy. She did not know what Hazel would do with her secrets. What if Hazel threatened her?
“Silas has recently been interested in the project in the west of the city and wants to use the project to cover up his dirty deal. If Hazel comes to you, you have to ignore her. Now she knows that I care about you very much, and she will definitely hurt you”
Ashley nodded with a pale face.
ot want to stay for a moment longer.
“If there’s nothing else, I’ll go back first. Take care of yourself.” Henry did not
“Henry!” Ashley panicked.
“What’s wrong?” Henry y turned ard
around and looked at Ashley who wanted to say something but stopped.
“No… Nothing.” Ashley’s eyes turned red and she slowly loosened her grip on Henry.
She could not tell Henry the truth. She could not say it out loud. If Henry knew it, their relationship would be doomed.
Henry would never allow a woman with a stained reputation to be his wife.
“Henry, can you stay
ay with me for one night?” She was scared and was panicking. She just hoped that Henry could stay with her.
Henry was silent and held back his disgust. “There are still many things in the company that I have to deal with. Hazel’s people are staring at me very closely now, I can’t let her know that I’m here. I will bring you trouble if I stay with you.
Ashley was a little disappointed, but she still let Henry leave.
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0
Henry went downstairs. Ashley sto
stood by the window and looked at his back, feeling devastated
She tried her best to get Henry, but the result was that she became very scared and on edge
As soon as Henry left, Hazel called her.
Ashley’s expression changed. Henry deliberately went importance to the project.
ent to her house
house to remind her. It seemed that Hazel really attached great
“Ashley, I need your help, Hazel smiled and spoke straightforwardly
“Please feel free to say it…
“Has Henry been to your place recently? I think he’s been very interested in you these days. He actually involved himself with Thomas’s matter personally,” Hazel said tentatively
*Henry promised to help me.” Ashley was a little nervous.
“Take advantage of his feelings for you now. Tell him that Silas has a project that needs his signature.” Hazel’s tone showed that her words were not a request, but an order
Ashley’s heart tightened instantly. “Hazel, I can’t talk to Henry about work. He won’t listen to me.”
Hazel’s voice instantly turned serious. “If you don’t try, how do you know?”
Ashley was
was nervous and did not say anything.
“Ashley, don’t you want to help?” Hazel said placidly.
“Hazel, I just feel that… Work matters…”
“Ashley, I think that you are someone with potential. I believe that you will be an obedient daughter–in–law, so I want to help you marry Henry. Will you not help me with such a trifle? Do you know how much it cost me to help you suppress Spike and his men?”
Hazel interrupted Ashley’s words directly. The threat was already very strong.
Ashley’s eyes darkened instantly, and her fingers clenched slowly.
Sure enough, as Henry said, Hazel would only use her and had never thought of helping her sincerely!
Now she had begun to threaten Hazel. In the future, Ashley would be controlled by Hazel
No… She had to find a way.
ng more to lose. She could never let someone like Hazel threaten her.
She had nothing
Henry had no feelings for his nominal mother apart from hatred and wariness.
“Why don’t I take the opportunity to… get rid of Hazel?” Ashley thought.
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0
see me again, I
Chapter 255
“Hazel, I find a way to help you. Henry just left. Zachary has been keeping a close eye on me. When Henry comes to se will definitely find a way to persuade him Ashley responded softly and sounded extremely obedient
“I knew
new you were an obedient child. Hazel was very satisfied.
田