《My Billionaire Ex-Husband Chase Me Back》


 Chapter 1: Divorce

    Chapter 1: DivorceMay 2018.


    The sun had just dipped below the horizon as a Maybach sped towards Fort City''s business district amid heavy rain.


    Surprisingly, the main street seemed less busy as the car approached Platinum Restaurant.


    In the passenger row, a woman in her mid-twenties couldn''t contain her smile as she read her husband''s text message. How happy she was; this was the first time her husband had asked her to meet at a restaurant to celebrate their wedding anniversary.


    Immersed with her cell phone, she didn''t notice the car had already stopped.


    "Madam..."


    The woman was startled to see the chauffeur opening the car door. Hurriedly, she grabbed her Birkin bag and stepped out.


    "You can head home. I''ll return with my husband," she told the chauffeur before striding towards the building.


    Brimming with happiness, she made her way toward the VIP room. However, the joy she looked forward to quickly became a nightmare when she entered the room.


    Instead of her husband, she found a middle-aged man seated in the room, clad in formal attire¡ªa black suit typically worn by executives in large companies.


    "Did I enter the wrong room?" the woman''s gentle voice resounds as she checks the door number.


    "Ms. Arabella Donovan, you are in the right room. Please come in and take a seat," the middle-aged man said as he stood up.


    He was surprised that the beautiful woman he had seen four years ago had become a typical housewife. They had gained much weight and didn''t care about their appearance, even though her flawless beauty was still there. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ms. Donovan, you might enter¡ª" The middle-aged man gestured for Bella to join him in the room.


    Bella didn''t move from her place. She was reluctant to enter the room because she didn''t remember ever meeting this person, and she was afraid this man was a terrible person who wanted to scam her.


    However, another question bothers her.


    Since she was married, Bella had barely heard anyone calling her by her full name; they usually called her by her husband''s name.


    Bella appeared worried. "Sir, may I know who you are?"


    "Ms. Donovan, sorry I forgot to introduce myself. I am John Turner, Mr. Tristan Sinclair''s lawyer," he said while extending his hand for a handshake.


    Bella awkwardly accepted his handshake, confused about why Tristan had sent his lawyer to meet her.


    Despite her confusion, Bella sat opposite John Turner and observed him place a piece of A4 paper on the table.


    When she read its contents, shock struck her¡ªit was a marriage annulment letter. She was confused, why did this man give her this letter!?


    Even after reading the letter multiple times, hoping she had misread it, John''s baritone voice confirmed her worst fears.


    "Ms. Donovan, this marriage annulment letter was prepared by my client, Mr. Tristan Sinclair. Please sign it if you have finished reading."


    Hearing John''s words, she felt everything in her mind was blank, as if consumed by an invisible black hole.


    ''Tristan, seeking a divorce? Why? Why did he do that?''


    Bella can''t understand why Tristan suddenly wants a divorce. She thought their marriage was fine.


    ''No. This must be a mistake, right!?''


    Refusing to believe what she read, Bella raised her head, narrowing her eyes at John Turner, holding back her anger and hurt.


    How dare this man rudely address her by her family name when she hasn''t signed the divorce papers yet?


    She strongly wanted to vent her anger to John Turner, but she controlled her emotions, not wanting to reveal how hurt and angry she was.


    After her emotions were calm and her mind clear, she placed the paper on the table.


    "Where''s your client!? Why didn''t he come here and send you instead?" Bella asks calmly, but inside her heart, she feels shattered, as if someone had blown her heart.


    "Mr. Sinclair can''t come. He is swamped with his work." John Turner said impatiently.


    "Could you please sign the paper without any more delay? I have a tight schedule, Ms. Donovan."


    Bella tried hard not to lose her temper as she clenched her hand into a fist.


    "Mr. Turner, let me remind you," she said. "I''ve not yet signed the paper; it means I''m still part of Sinclair!" Her eyes were filled with an icy look.


    John Turner''s face turns stiff upon hearing her warning. Just before he wanted to say something, Bella spoke again with a firm and commanding tone.


    "I will not sign anything before your busy client talks to me. You better call him now, or you will return home without anything!"


    "Ma''am, I apologize for my rudeness," John Turner said politely, though internally cursing Bella. "Mr. Sinclair can''t talk to you now. He sent me here to bring this letter to represent him."


    Bella silently laughed, hearing his words.


    "So, you''re his mail courier now, Mr. Turner?"


    John Turner, "..."


    "Mam, I''m¡ª"


    "I don''t want to hear your reason," Bella didn''t give John a chance to say anything. "Mr. Turner, I just need to talk to him personally. You had better call him now, or you would get nothing from me. I won''t sign anything." She said coldly.


    Deeply hurt by receiving divorce papers on their fourth wedding anniversary, Bella only wanted to ask Tristan''s reason. Why did he divorce her? Yet, this lawyer didn''t even try to reach him.


    Bella didn''t want to wait any longer. She dialed Tristan''s number, but her face slowly turned dark. No words could describe her anger upon knowing Tristan had blocked her phone number.


    ''Tristan Sinclair!! You are so mean! How dare you do this to me?''


    Suppressing her anger, Bella clenched her fist tightly, stowed her phone, and stood, ready to leave. She couldn''t stay in that room any longer.


    "Ma''am, please sign the paper before you go," John Turner stood and followed her, blocking her path. "You can''t leave until you sign the paper, mam." His eyes sharply looked at her.


    John Turner''s face, which had been friendly, turned fierce. He no longer looked like a classy lawyer but rather like a thug in a suit.


    "Mr. Turner, move! Don''t block my way..." Bella was so pissed off looking at John Turner blocking her way.


    "You will not go anywhere before signing the paper, Mam. Please, just sign the damn paper!" John''s voice sounded threatening, but Bella didn''t flinch at his rising voice.


    Bella chuckled, "Mr. Turner, are you really a lawyer?"


    John Turner frowned, hearing her question, "Of course I am. Do you want to see my ID?"


    "No need. I''m only confused because you look more like a lowly bandit than a lawyer!?" She smiles.


    John''s facial expression dropped, and he looked like he''d just witnessed someone spit on his food. Hearing her words, he opened his mouth and wanted to counter them, but again, this woman stopped him.


    "Well, Mr. Turner, I clearly stated my reason. I won''t sign anything until I speak with your client!"


    "Mam, why insist on meeting my client when he doesn''t want to see you again?" John Turner asked politely, but Bella felt like this man had just slapped her using his words.


    Bella clenched tightly as she fought the urge to return his slap, but at the last moment, she restrained herself.


    She took a deep sigh before calmly saying, "Sir, if you keep blocking me, I''ll count to three... I''ll scream and claim you''re harassing me!"


    John Turner didn''t buy this woman''s threat. He knows she was only bluffing.


    Seeing that, John Turner didn''t move but smiled at her, making Bella''s annoyance flare.


    "Fine if you don''t want to move. But, Mr. Turner, you can''t blame me later if you end up in the police office," The corners of her lips lifted, revealing an evil and charming cold smile before she shouted, "Three... HELP... HELP... SOME¡ª"


    ''What the hell!!'' John Turner cursed inwardly. ''Is she foolish? Why jump straight to three? Can''t she count?''


    "Ma''am, please stop. Please don''t scream... Ok, ok... I will call Mr. Sinclair now," John Turner had no choice but to call his boss.


    Bella felt amused seeing John Turner''s shocked expression.


    "Mr. Turner, you should have done that earlier. Why make me waste my energy screaming and hurting my throat?" Bella said while rubbing her smooth neck. "I might sue you if my vocal cords are damaged."


    John was speechless.


    Bella ignored him and walked back into the room. She sat on her chair while glancing at John.


    A bitter smile formed on her lips when she faintly heard John Turner speak on the phone.


    She still couldn''t believe Tristan had blocked her phone number.


    Feeling annoyed, she empties a glass of water to suppress her anger while waiting for John Turner to finish talking to Tristan.


    Later,


    Bella saw John approaching her.


    Her heartbeat raced faster than usual for unknown reasons, and she felt nervous about speaking to Tristan.


    "Ma''am," John Turner said, offering his cell phone to Bella. "You can talk to Mr. Sinclair..."


    Bella''s hands shook slightly when she took the cell phone. After taking a deep breath, she placed the phone on her ear.


    Before Bella could say anything, she heard Tristan''s cold tone on the other end, "You said you wanted to talk to me. Why are you silent now?"


    Tristan''s attitude made Bella reconsider asking him to stop the divorce.


    She clenched the cell phone tightly, holding back her anger.


    "Why did you send your lawyer to give me this divorce paper?"


    "Let''s get straight to the point. Do you need more money as alimony?" Tristan asked casually, but his words felt like nails piercing Bella''s heart.


    Bella fought the urge to curse him.


    "Did you think I married you for your money?" She asked coldly.

 Chapter 2: Humiliated

    Chapter 2: Humiliated"Just state how many you need, Bella. I will give you anything you want as much as you ask."


    Hearing Tristan humiliate her with his words, she''d surely cry if she were alone in the room. Bella tries to hold back her tears while calming her emotions.


    "Tr-Tristan¡ª" Bella''s voice slightly shaking. "I want to hear your reasons. Why did you ask for a divorce?"


    Instead of answering her, Tristan asked, "Do you remember why we got married?"


    Bella didn''t respond. Of course, she remembers. Their marriage was an arrangement between their grandpas.


    Old Donovan forced Bella to marry into the Sinclair family. This marriage started because of money and power, with no love between two people involved.


    If she can bear a son for Sinclair, they promise to give her family good fortune; their family business will no longer become a mid-core company. Sinclair pledged to help Donovan Group become the top company in the country.


    Married for benefit, something Bella hated the most, but she couldn''t refuse her grandpa and father at the time. She was powerless; her only option was to accept the arrangement and marry the man she never met before.


    However, She was stupid enough to make a big mistake after marrying Tristan Sinclair; she fell deeply in love with him. Now, she regrets it.


    "Bella, maybe you already forgot after four years. Let me remind you. Our parents want you to carry on the Sinclair family line. But you haven''t gotten pregnant yet."


    Tristan continued, "What am I supposed to do now? I can''t wait another year. You know that, right? Why you¡ª"


    "I understand!" Bella interrupted him. Her heart was truly hurt to hear his reason. She didn''t need his words to slice her already wounded heart.


    During their four-year marriage, she had tried so many ways to give him a child but was unable to get pregnant until now. She couldn''t possibly get pregnant just because she wanted to, as she couldn''t force God to let her get pregnant.


    Bella felt like she was living in hell during their wedding, stressed about not getting pregnant. She had to endure the humiliation she received from her mother-in-law; she verbally abused her almost every day.


    The most painful part was that her parents also despised her because, for four years, she couldn''t bear a child and couldn''t hold Tristan''s heart.


    ''Well, Bella, at least you are now free from all those painful...'' She tries to cheer her broken heart. However, Tristan''s following words once again shattered her last bit of patience and calmness.


    "Glad to know that. Alright, now sign the papers and stop creating drama, Bella! Ah, you don''t have to worry... I will give you alimony, enough for you to spend the money for the rest of your life. You will not suffer after divorcing me." He said casually, but Bella felt like all her blood was rushing to her face.


    She feels utterly angry hearing his words.


    ''Who needs your money? I can make money without you!'' Bella vents her frustration.


    However, just before she wanted to refuse his money, she heard a voice in her mind.


    ''Don''t refuse his money. Take it!!''


    Bella was stunned. She pressed her lips to stop the words she was about to say.


    "I will sign," Bella said without hesitation. "But, if someday you regret this decision and want me back, you won''t get a chance, Tristan. So¡ª"


    "That will never happen!" Tristan ended the call without giving her a chance to say anything.


    Beep!


    Bella felt her eyes blurry as soon as the phone line abruptly ended. She pushed back her tears while trying to cast a spell on herself.


    ''Arabella Donovan, don''t cry. Tristan Sinclair isn''t worth your tears!'' She gritted her teeth while returning John Turner''s cell phone.


    ...


    Bella didn''t say a word but just listened to John Turner explaining the divorce papers.


    Her mind was sunk into a dark abyss in her heart''s pond. She felt torn apart. The marriage she dreamed of had ended just like that.


    This divorce never crossed her mind. She thought Tristan would never divorce her, as he was always gentle toward her and never asked her to do anything.


    But now, she realized, her four-year marriage to Tristan was just a facade; his gentleness was only a mirage. She hated herself because she always believed that Tristan would love her one day.


    ''What should I do now?''


    Faced with this sudden situation, Bella''s brain could not think straight for a moment.


    ''Should I return to my hometown to my family or stay here and start my new life?'' Bella felt like her brain was in a thick fog, and she did not know what to do next.


    Bella sat in her chair, looking at John Turner before her. She couldn''t understand a single sentence that came out of his lips. She felt like she was watching a movie without sound.


    Before long, she finally heard him.


    "Ms. Donovan, you just need to sign here," John Turner pushed the paper toward her and pointed to the part she had to sign.


    Bella took the pen, but before writing her name on the paper, her hand stopped when something flashed through her mind.


    When John saw Bella didn''t sign, he said, "Ms. Donovan, I want to clarify the alimony; Mr. Sinclair will transfer it to your account. And also, the house you live in now will be handed over to you. You will also get some shares in the company..."


    "Please send all the money to this account." Bella write her bank account, which she never accessed after marrying Tristan.


    "Swiss bank account¡ª" John Turner looked surprised that this woman had an account at a bank known only for tycoons.


    "Yes. I need your help selling the assets Tristan gave me. All the money and shares he gives me should also be sent to this account," Bella instructed.


    Bella will never stay at their marital house alone because she will always remember him if she remains there, and her mother-in-law''s house is just next to theirs.


    How could she survive life in that place?


    "Ms. Donovan, that house¡ª" John was surprised this woman wanted to sell the house.


    The houses are located in the most expensive neighborhoods in this country. Only famous and wealthy people can own a house there, and not just anyone can buy property there.


    "Yes. Why do you look confused?"


    "Are you sure you want to sell that house, Mam!?" sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of course. Sell it after I move out," Bella said. She signed the marriage annulment paper without hesitation.


    After she finished signing the paper, she turned to see John again.


    "Mr. Turner, you can go now and tell him, if he sees me one day, ask him to ignore me because I will do that too."


    Bella averted her gaze from John Turner because she didn''t want this man to witness her sadness. She wanted John to tell Tristan that she was okay with this divorce.

 Chapter 3: Pregnant!

    Chapter 3: Pregnant!The moment Bella heard the door finally closed, all the toughness she had displayed in front of John Turner suddenly vanished.


    Her shoulders dropped. Tears began flowing down her cheeks. She cries in silence, pouring her sadness while making a vow in her heart that she will never forget and forgive Tristan Sinclair for what he did to her now.


    After crying for a while, Bella felt her eyes sting because there were no more tears to flow.


    Now, she only wants to go somewhere to sleep. Perhaps, after her long sleep, she might forget everything.


    Bella slowly rises from her seat but feels her head spinning, and her gaze turns dark. With difficulty, she forced herself to leave the VIP room.


    When Bella arrived at the main entrance, she couldn''t help but smile bitterly as she looked at the sky. The sky seemed to share the same feeling as her heart, dark with rumbling thunder.


    She didn''t see anyone walking outside, nor any taxis parked in front of the building, as if they had avoided the heavy rain about to hit the city.


    Under the gloomy dark sky, Bella walked along the pedestrian path by the dim light of street lights. She didn''t care when others looked at her strangely¡ªas if observing a woman wandering around in the rain, her hair and dress getting wet.


    The sound of the wind made her ears numb, and the cold air began to pierce her pores. Bella''s steps quickened despite not knowing where to go.


    She just wanted to walk along the pedestrian paths and beg the rain to erase the traces of Tristan and his damn family from her mind.


    Amidst her chaotic thoughts, Bella began to think about her future. Should she return to her family? This question lingered in her mind, but the thought of her parents scolding her as usual because she wasn''t pregnant dismissed the idea.


    She couldn''t go back there. She will feel more hurt if she returns to her parent''s house.


    After numerous steps and minutes, Bella finally stopped at an intersection, and her mind started to feel blank as if a dark fog enveloped her thoughts.


    A faint smile appeared when she saw a red light.


    ''Walk!!'' Bella whispered under her breath. She closed her eyes and took a few steps forward, but her weak knee gave in.


    Before her head hit the wet asphalt, her eyes slowly opened. She saw the light approaching and suddenly stopped not far from her.


    ''Why did you stop!?'' Bella muttered before darkness consumed her.


    ****


    Upon opening her eyes, Bella saw a middle-aged man in a white doctor''s robe standing beside her bed. She noticed the Promise Hospital logo on his robe.


    ''Why am I in the hospital?''


    Bella looked around and was shocked to realize she was in the emergency room. Many hospital beds were lined up near hers, but only a few were occupied. She also noticed several nurses and doctors checking on the other patients passing her bed.


    She couldn''t recall what had happened to her. The last thing she remembered she was walking in the rain.


    Curious, Bella turned her gaze to the Doctor, "Doctor, why am I here? What happened to me?" There was a trace of worry in her tone.


    "Ms. Donovan, you are finally awake," the Doctor greeted her gently. Two nurses standing beside him also smiled at her.


    Bella faintly smiled at them. She started to recall what happened before walking in the rain; she had left Platinum Restaurant after meeting John Turner, Tristan''s lawyer.


    ''Tristan!''


    Just thinking about him was enough to reopen the wound in her heart. The pain that had faded away amid the heavy rain started tormenting her again.


    ''I''m a divorced woman! The man I love divorced me just because I can''t give him a child. How dare he¡ª'' Suddenly, Bella felt suffocated, remembering what had happened in the restaurant.


    Her chest felt heavy, and her breathing became short. Slowly, she raised her hand to rub her chest to relieve the tightness while diverting her thoughts, but the more she tried, the more evident Tristan''s image appeared.


    As she struggled to breathe, she noticed the Doctor swiftly instructing the nurse to administer oxygen to help her breathe normally. She stopped them.


    "D-Doctor, no need. I''m... Fine!" Bella said in a breathless voice. She felt suffocated, not because something had happened to her chest, but because she remembered the pain Tristan had caused her.


    It was still hard for Bella to believe her status changed quickly. In the morning, she was married; in the evening, she divorced. The pain and disappointment she felt lingered.


    How could she explain this to others, especially her family? Just thinking about it made her chest hurt even more.


    "D-Doctor, I''m really fine. There''s no need to put that thing," Bella tried to smile, even though it seemed forced.


    "Are you sure, Ms. Donovan?" The Doctor asked while checking her condition.


    "Yes, Doc. I''m fine..." She tried to reassure the Doctor she was okay. However, before she could sit properly, she felt her surroundings spinning.


    Unable to resist the dizziness, she closed her eyes tightly and lay back on the bed.


    "D-Doc, why... why... Do I feel like my surroundings are spinning?" Bella stammered.


    "Ms. Donovan, you woke up too fast. Try taking a deep breath and slowly reopen your eyes. Don''t get up too fast; take it slow, and you''ll be fine."


    Bella followed the Doctor''s instructions. Surprisingly, she was able to sit on the edge of the bed without feeling her surroundings spinning. She felt fine.


    "Are you feeling better now, Ms. Donovan?"


    Bella smiled at the Doctor and nodded.


    "Excellent, Ms. Donovan. Do you remember what happened to you?" The Doctor asked again.


    She shook her head. "No, Doctor. Why am I here?"


    "Ms. Donovan, you fainted when you got here. However, after we checked your condition, you were fine. You are only tired, and your body cannot withstand the cold because it has been exposed to rain for so long¡ª" The Doctor explained.


    Bella was surprised to know she had lost consciousness in the rain. However, a second later, she felt her blood running cold.


    ''Oh my God, Bella! What are you thinking about? Why do you have such intentions!??'' Bella scolded herself, remembering that, at that time, she had thought about ending her life.


    How could she even think about it? It was not her style to have such a shallow mind. She felt like her soul was being possessed.


    How stupid!


    ...


    "Ms. Donovan, if you want to play in the rain next time, I suggest you do that in short..." The Doctor playfully teased her.


    Bella couldn''t help but smile, though she still felt mad at herself, silently, in her heart.


    "Doc, may I know who brought me here?" Bella asked. Her curiosity is evident.


    A short-haired nurse answered, "A young man. Sorry, ma''am, I don''t know his identity, but he is the one who registered your identity at the administration."


    Bella frowned.


    "Is he still around? Can you call him? I need to thank him." She was curious about who admitted her to this emergency room, worried that the person might know Tristan. She didn''t want Tristan or the Sinclair family to know she was in this place.


    "He has left the hospital. He only left you a note. But, sorry, ma''am, my head nurse is not here; she is the one who keeps that note," the nurse said, checking her watch.


    "She probably return in about thirty minutes." The nurse continue. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you. It''s okay, I will wait," Bella said. Then she looked at the Doctor. "Doctor, can I go home? I feel so much better."


    She wanted to go home immediately and move her things out of her house.


    The Doctor didn''t answer her but glanced at the nurse beside him as if he had given them instructions.


    "Ms. Donovan, yes, you can. But I suggest you call your husband to pick you up. It''s not safe for you to go home alone. This is almost midnight."


    Hearing the Doctor ask her to call her husband, Bella felt her heart hurt again. But his last words surprised her. Glancing at the wall clock, she was startled to realize it was past eleven o''clock.


    Bella silently took a deep breath while trying to find her bag. She needed to check her cell phone to call Aunt Noora, her childhood nanny.


    Before Bella could ask for her bag, the Doctor said, "Ms. Donovan, congratulations."


    Bella was confused. Why this Doctor congratulated her!?


    "Doctor, what for?"


    "You are pregnant, Ms. Donovan¡ª"


    Bella felt like she had been struck by lightning. She could feel all her blood rushing to her heart, quickening her pulse, too shocked by what she had heard.


    "Pre-pregnant!?"

 Chapter 4: Miracle

    Chapter 4: Miracle"D-Doctor, you... you said I''m pregnant!?" Bella asked, needing confirmation that she hadn''t misheard.


    The Doctor''s frown deepened as he noticed how pale and frightened Bella looked.


    ''Why does she look scared?'' The Doctor muttered, glancing at the diamond ring wrapped around her finger. ''She is a married woman. She should be happy with her pregnancy, right?''


    "Yes, Ma''am... You are pregnant," he confirmed again, attempting to hide his suspicion that this woman might not want this pregnancy.


    He continued, "I already asked the nurse to schedule you to meet a gynecologist tomorrow morning. You need to consult with the gynecologist immediately, Ms. Donovan. I''m worried your emotional condition now will impact your pregnancy."


    This was the only advice he could offer. He didn''t want to see this young woman resort to having an abortion, a situation he had unfortunately witnessed too often.


    ...


    Bella was too shocked to pay attention to the Doctor''s words. When he finally left, she could only nod and thank him.


    Only a nurse remained with her, but she didn''t say anything as she was lost in her own thoughts about the sudden news of her pregnancy.


    In recent years, she has tried various methods to get pregnant. However, all her attempts had failed; even a few months ago, she underwent her third IVF* (In vitro fertilization), but with the same disappointing results.


    Yet, the Doctor had just confirmed she was pregnant. How could she get pregnant naturally? It was difficult for her to believe. It seemed like a miracle.


    "Do you still want to leave the hospital tonight, Ms. Donovan? I''ll help you with the paperwork..." the nurse asked, breaking Bella''s deep thoughts.


    Bella shook her head in response to the nurse. Her plans had changed upon learning about her pregnancy. She needed to stay in this hospital and think about her next plan.


    "Nurse, can I move to a private room? I have to stay here tonight. Also, please arrange for me to see a gynecologist tomorrow morning..."


    "Sure, ma''am. I will arrange it for you," the nurse answered.


    "Do you need my ID card or something to register?" Bella asked while trying to find her bag. She couldn''t spot her belongings; even now, she was wearing a hospital patient gown ¡ª light blue pajamas.


    "No need, ma''am. Your administration is already completed. But I need to check if a patient room is still available..." The nurse paused, gazing at Bella silently while thinking about something. After a few more seconds, she asked, "Ma''am, would you prefer a VIP or shared room?"


    "The best room in this hospital doesn''t matter. Money is no problem for me," Bella replied with a smile.


    Bella noticed the nurse seemed concerned, as if worried she couldn''t afford the VIP ward.


    "Yes, ma''am," the nurse nodded and excused herself. However, she stopped when Bella called her.


    "Nurse, have you seen my bag?"


    "When you arrived here, all your things were soaked, ma''am. We try to dry it for you; I''ll bring it to you immediately..." The nurse explained.


    "Thank you, Nurse..."


    Bella remembered walking in the rain before losing consciousness. Her Birkin bag didn''t matter to her; she only needed her cell phone. She had to call her Aunty Noora because she wouldn''t go home today.


    Before long, the nurse returned. Bella noticed her Birkin bag looked dull.


    ''Gosh! Looks like this bag doesn''t want me either...'' She wanted to laugh because this was the only expensive bag Tristan had ever given her.


    After thanking the nurse, she immediately searched for her cell phone.


    Bella felt like crying because the phone wouldn''t turn on. She didn''t know whether the battery had run out or if it was damaged due to exposure to water.


    "Tsk, tsk, Bells... Looks like today was not your day, huh!" She silently talked to herself, taking another deep breath, feeling utterly exhausted.


    She lay back on the bed while touching her still-flat stomach.


    A faint smile formed on her lips as she felt like her pregnancy wasn''t real because she didn''t feel anything growing inside her. However, she couldn''t suppress the happy smile that slowly emerged from the corners of her lips.


    Even though Bella felt hurt that Tristan decided to divorce her without prior discussion, she was willing to forgive him solely for the sake of their child.


    At least saving her marriage to Tristan could bring happiness to her family.


    "Bella, you still have a chance..." Hope rose in her heart, imagining Tristan paying more attention to her and perhaps loving her more. It was something she had always dreamed of after marrying him.


    However, she needed to confirm her pregnancy before reaching out to him. She couldn''t face Tristan until she was sure; she needed proof to talk to him.


    After a few minutes, the nurse returned, "Ms. Donovan, your room is ready. I will take you to your room."


    "Thank you," Bella smiled at the nurse and followed her after grabbing her pitiful Birkin bag.


    As they walked through the patient room corridor, Bella remained silent, busy with thoughts about her plan to contact Tristan. He had blocked her number.


    What''s even sadder is that she doesn''t have Tristan''s personal assistant and driver''s phone number. She was utterly clueless about him.


    ''It looks like I have to visit him at his office. Did he return from his business trip?'' she wondered.


    Lost in her thoughts, Bella was suddenly distracted by the conversation of a few women in the corner. She glanced in their direction and saw three nurses seated inside the nurse station not far from her.


    She turned her gaze back to the corridor leading to her VIP room, ignoring the nurses.


    But she was utterly shocked when she heard their conversation before passing them.


    "Hey, I have a HOT news!! Tristan Sinclair dating Laura Kiels!?"


    _____ S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    AN:


    *IVF = In vitro fertilization is a process where egg cells are combined with sperm in vitro. The process involves monitoring and stimulating the patient''s ovulation process, removing the egg or egg cells from her ovaries, and allowing sperm to fertilize them in a culture medium in the laboratory.

 Chapter 5: Forget Him!

    Chapter 5: Forget Him!Bella was utterly shocked when she heard their conversation before passing them.


    "Hey, I have a HOT news!! Tristan Sinclair dating Laura Kiels!?"


    "You mean the rising model, Laura? Are you serious?" asked a nurse with bobbed hair in shock. Upon seeing her friend nod in confirmation, she could only gasp in surprise.


    "Yes... Yes... I have the proof!" she giggled, sitting next to the nurse with bobbed hair.


    "Oh, please... Could both of you stop gossiping about celebrities? Also, stop spreading baseless news," another nurse wearing cat eyes glasses said, glaring at them for spouting nonsense.


    The bob-haired nurse nodded in agreement with her friend, "Yeah, we should stop gossiping. There''s no way Tristan Sinclair is dating Laura Kiels because I heard Tristan already has a wife."


    "Wife? They''ve never admitted it. How could a chaebol marry without a party or media coverage? Impossible, right?"


    "Hmm, you''re right about that too. So, is it true that the news of his marriage is also gossip?"


    "Sinclair Corp never made a statement. I don''t need to answer. Everyone in the country knows..."


    Bella clearly heard what the three nurses were talking about. She could only control her emotions no matter how angry and hurt she had heard them talk about Tristan and his other woman. She lowered her head, looking at the floor, unable to walk.


    "Goodness! Stop your cheap gossip, please. It''s none of our business to discuss their personal matters," said the cat eyes glasses nurse.


    "I''m not gossiping, but I¡ª" she paused, taking out her cell phone. "Check for yourself; a few hours ago, I saw him come here with Laura Kiels to meet the ob-gyn doctor." She handed her cell phone. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Though doubtful, the cat eyes glasses nurse accepted the cell phone and was shocked when she saw the picture. "Heavens! You''re right... this picture is indeed Mr. Tristan Sinclair and the woman is Laura Kiels."


    "Why are you shocked? You should be happy for them, right? This power couple looks so lovely," She said as she took her cell phone back while giggling at the candid photo she had taken this afternoon.


    "Yes... yes... I will ship them. The man looks so hot and rich. And the woman looks so beautiful. Ugh, I can''t wait to see their child."


    "Hahaha, yeah, their children will definitely be very adorable, right!?"


    "¡ªStop talking! This is a hospital, not a cafe!" Suddenly, the head nurse appeared from behind the door and silenced them all.


    ...


    "Child! Tristan has a child with another woman?" A look of surprise flashed across Bella''s eyes, but she maintained her calm expression. Although she felt this news was a big blow to her. She didn''t know how to react because this news completely shattered her hopes.


    Kimberly, the nurse who guided Bella to her VIP room, was taken aback by Bella''s pale face. Worried she might faint again, Kimberly held her hand and said, "Ms. Donovan, this way..." Her voice diverted the nurse inside the station.


    They all covered their mouths, looking towards the corridor in shock, unaware that a patient was nearby.


    "Hmm," Bella nodded, forced to walk again, following the nurse to room #2024.


    "Ma''am, let me take you to your bed," Kimberly offered.


    "No need. I can walk. Thank you," Bella smiles even though her smile feels forced.


    After shutting the door behind her, Bella remained rooted to her spot, her mind swirling with the earlier conversation.


    ''Really? Tristan has a romantic relationship with another woman?''


    ''His woman is also pregnant??''


    ''This is the reason Tristan decided to divorce me because of this woman!?''


    Countless questions tormented her mind. For the second time, she felt heartbroken. It was too much for her to handle.


    In just one day, Tristan was able to drain all her emotions. She really hated him!


    Anger consumed her mind and soul; Bella felt her head spinning and her knees giving out. She dropped to her knees, gently patting her chest, feeling like something was stuck there.


    The tears she had held back flowed incessantly, wetting her cheeks. Even though she tried to cry silently, her faint sobs echoed in the empty room.


    Bella lost track of time while kneeling on the floor, pouring out her sorrow and fury. When she tried to stand up, her legs felt numb.


    Her face flushed red as if all the blood had rushed there.


    She reminds herself, "Bells! Please, this is the last time you cry for him. From now on, you will forget everything about him. He is not a part of you anymore¨C"


    ****


    Next morning.


    Bella opened her eyes, gazing at the dim room and the unfamiliar ceiling. She could only laugh bitterly as her mind reeled back to what happened yesterday, her worst day ever, and now she was awake in the hospital.


    Gosh!


    Trying to get up, she felt her entire body ache. Even the slightest movement made her bones feel as though they were being crushed.


    Enduring the nameless pain coursing through her, she finally managed to sit on the edge of her bed. Her gaze landed on the bedside table, where she spotted her cell phone, a note, and a white envelope.


    [Ms. Donovan, your cell phone is just fine. I''ve already charged it for you. Hopefully, it works. Kimberly]


    "So, your name is Kimberly. Thank you, Kim," Bella muttered quietly, smiling upon reading the note left by the nurse who had assisted her in moving to the VIP ward.


    Bella returned the note to the table and picked up her cell phone. Surprisingly, the cell phone was still working.


    While waiting for the phone to load, her attention was drawn to a white envelope.


    Bella recalled that she did not see the envelope before going to bed.


    A few moments later, she remembered what Kimberly had mentioned: the man who took her to the emergency room had left a message for her.


    "It must be the note from him, right?" Bella hastily opened the envelope and read the letter.


    Seeing how that person had written her name sent shivers down her spine.


    She was shocked.

 Chapter 6: Worry

    Chapter 6: WorrySeeing how that person had written her name sent shivers down her spine.


    [Hi Bells,


    It''s been a while since our last meeting. And we met again in such a weird situation.


    I''m sorry, Bells. I can not wait until you wake up. You know, I have my duty to take care of, right!?


    Give me a call if you find this letter.


    SS]


    Bella read the letter countless times. Just reading that letter, she feels like facing and talking to him directly. After her terrible day yesterday, this is the first time she smiles widely, like spring comes after the winter season.


    It''s hard to believe Sean Spencer helped and brought her here. Their encounter this time was indeed weird.


    After marrying Tristan Sinclair, one by one, Bella''s friends drifted apart from her life as she stopped contacting them to focus on her new life.


    "Thank you, Sean..." Bella whispers while looking at her cell phone.


    She needs to call him. However, her cell phone rang just before she dialed Sean''s number.


    Bella was surprised to see ''Aunty Noora'' appear on the cell phone screen. She picked up the phone immediately but didn''t have a chance to speak, as she heard Noora speak like a pro rapper.


    "Oh my god!! Oh my god!! Young Miss Bella... You finally answered my call. Where have you been? I have tried calling you since yesterday but can''t reach you. Are you alright?" Noora''s voice sounds rushed and shaking. "Miss Bella, please answer me, huh!? Why aren''t you talking? Please say something, Miss¡ª"


    "Auntie, calm down," Bella felt warm inside when hearing Aunt Noora''s panicked tone from the other end. "How could I speak if you didn''t allow me to speak?" she chuckled.


    Bella feels so happy to be able to speak to someone. Noora was her nanny since she was a child. And when she marries Tristan, Noora follows her to stay at their house.


    In this world, Noora is the only person Bella trusts the most. Their bond is very close; even her parents are not that close to her because both parents are busy in their own world.


    "Ugh... Well... young Miss, this is almost morning. Why have you not returned yet? I tried to call you many times but¡ª"


    Bella didn''t give her a chance to continue her words, "Aunty Noora, I never knew you had a talent," she laughed.


    "What?" Noora was confused when she heard Bella''s words. "Talent? Young Miss... what do you mean?" she asked.


    "You sound like a female rapper. How can you talk so fast? I''m impressed." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Noora almost choked at her words. "Oh please, Miss Bella, stop teasing me. Answer me first... Where are you now?"


    "I will explain later¡ª" Before Bella could finish, she heard Noora ask again.


    "Miss, are you with your¡ª" a pause hangs in the air. Bella couldn''t help but smile; she knew what Noora wanted to ask, and her question seemed abrupt.


    "¡ªAre you with your husband?" Noora finally asked. She knows Tristan will never ask Bella out for a night over. But she knows Tristan invited her young Miss to celebrate their 4th anniversary yesterday.


    A bitter smile appears on Bella''s face before she answers, "Nope, Aunty... I''m alone. But don''t worry, I''m in a safe place."


    Bella didn''t want to make Aunty Noora worry too long; she continued to explain, "Aunty, I will return. But right now, I want you to do something for me. Bring some clothes to Promise Hospital, room number #2024..."


    Bella''s words sound like thunder in Noora''s ears.


    Since last night, Noora had been afraid Bella had an accident. Noora''s worry increased when she tried calling Bella a few times, but her cell phone was inactive.


    If the driver had not mentioned that Bella would return home with her husband, Noora would possibly have reported her missing to the police.


    "Y-Young Miss, you...you...what¡ª" Noora couldn''t finish her sentence, her mind filled with terrifying accident scenarios. Her hand trembled as she held her cell phone. "Why are you in Hospital? Are you alright?"


    "Auntie, I told you I''m fine. Ugh, well... I can''t explain now what happened to me. But I want you to come here soon. And make sure you don''t tell anyone you''ll be meeting me here!"


    "Ok, young Miss," Noora immediately ended the call and prepared Bella''s clothes.


    It was still dark outside when Noora hailed a taxi, rushing from the house to the Hospital.


    After talking with Noora, Bella continued scrolling through her cell phone, checking her email and text messages. However, she found only numerous sales and marketing promotions there.


    ''What a pitiful life you have now, Bells!'' she muttered, sad at herself.


    Married to Tristan Sinclair, Bella had abandoned all her business and lost touch with her college friends. She rarely received updates from them until today.


    Bella truly hated herself for abandoning her dream to focus solely on building a small, happy family with Tristan. Her life has only revolved around Tristan for the last four years.


    However, after everything she had done for him, she felt betrayed and humiliated by this divorce. How could he have another woman?


    Bella can''t help but scold herself because of her own stupidity. "You are stupid Bells! Now, you must strike back and pursue what you dream of!"


    ****


    It didn''t take long for Noora to arrive at Promise Hospital. Her cries echoed through the room when she saw Bella lying on the bed.


    Rushing to Bella''s side, Noora sobbed loudly while tightly holding her hand.


    "Huahua... young Miss, why are you in the Hospital? Are you really sick? Please don''t make me worry, huh!? You know, I couldn''t sleep all night worrying about you. And just thinking about you in this Hospital raised my blood pressure and weakened my heart," Noora said between her sobs.


    Bella found it amusing to look at Noora crying like a baby. She sat on the bed while trying to stop Noora from crying.


    She was worried the nurse and doctor would rush to her room and thought she was dead.


    "Aunty Noora... Can you please hold back your tears!?" Bella said as she watched her frown while wiping her tears away. She continued, "I''m not dead yet; you can cry like this when I pass away..."


    Bella thought Noora would laugh at her humor, but her crying grew louder.


    "..."

 Chapter 7: Plan (1)

    Chapter 7: Plan (1)Bella thought Noora would laugh at her humor, but her crying grew louder.


    "..."


    "Hua... Young Miss, please... please don''t say something like that... Hua... How could you easily die? You won''t die young, alright. Stop wishing that happen..." Noora speaks between her sobs while wiping her tears every few seconds.


    "You... You... are so kind, young Miss. God will grant you longevity... You will live a hundred years," She staring at Bella in the eyes.


    Bella held back her laughter, seeing Noora''s comical expression.


    Even though Noora''s figure is like a man ¡ª tall, with a broad chest and a huge, fierce face ¡ª her heart is very soft. She cries easily, like a spoiled child. But her tears only fell when something happened related to Bella.


    However, despite Noora''s melancholic personality, she is kind and has cared for Bella very well since childhood.


    Bella tapped Noora''s shoulder gently as if trying to coax a little girl to stop crying.


    "Alright... Alright... I will reach 100 years old, just like you. But please stop crying, or the doctor will come here thinking I''m dead..." Bella grinned.


    Noora immediately nods while holding back her tears. She wiped the trace of tears on her cheeks while trying to smile at Bella.


    "Aunty, your beauty will run away from you if you cry like that." Bella once again humors her to make her forget her sadness.


    "Is that bad!?"


    "Hmm. That''s why you should not easily cry like that, Aunty..."


    Noora rolls her eyes. Before she could say something, Bella walked toward the sitting area in the corner.


    "Ok. Let''s sit," Bella said, but she was distracted by the scenery outside the window. Her step halted as she stood by the window.


    Bella saw the sky slowly bright as the sun gradually appeared on the horizon. She imagined herself watching this sky from her new home, where she chose to live for the next several years ¡ª hiding from her miserable life in this country and her asshole ex-husband. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had already chosen the place but had to confirm whether the place was available for her to buy. She wanted to fly there immediately, leaving everything behind.


    "Young Miss," Noora''s voice pulls Bella from her trance. Bella looked at Noora, who now stood behind her.


    "Hmm?"


    "Why do you stay here if you are not sick?" No more tears falling from Noora''s eyes. Her expression looks calm, but the worried tone in her voice is clearly heard.


    Bella didn''t rush to answer her; she walked to the seating area and settled on the single sofa. When she saw Noora sitting opposite her, Bella finally started telling Noora about her divorce from Tristan.


    "Aunty, so much happened to me in just a day," Bella paused to take a deep breath and tried not to cry again. She had to appear tough in front of Noora. "Tristan and I have decided to end our marriage..."


    Noora needs a few seconds to realize what Bella is trying to say. When she realized it, her face instantly darkened.


    "WHAT!? Ma-master Tristan, divorced you?" Noora''s voice trembled as her body suddenly shivered, too shocked by what Bella had said.


    "Oh, come on, Aunt Noora... He''s not your Master. Stop calling him that."


    The shock was still clearly visible on Noora''s face. She looked into Bella''s eyes for a moment before she said, "Please don''t say things like this easily, Miss. God might grant your wish if you say those taboo words!"


    Bella realized that no one who had heard this news would believe it, including Noora.


    "Aunty, you are my trusted person. I will never lie to you about this one, and you are the first person to know about this; not even my grandpa or parents hear about it."


    Noora''s face slowly turned pale as paper when she saw Bella''s seriousness. She cupped her trembling hands in her lap before asking, "M-Miss Bella, I.. believe you. What are your plans now?"


    "Well, because I already signed the divorce paper, I shall move out of the house," Bella answered casually. There''s no more sadness left in her heart. She had already poured her sorrow and tears for Tristan last night.


    Not only did she bury Tristan in the depths of her heart, but she also finished making a plan for her new life path. She will fly to a place where Tristan and his family can''t reach her ¡ª afraid they will look after her if they know she is actually pregnant.


    Bella will ensure that she has peace of mind to give birth to her baby and raise her child without interference from the Sinclair family. She would never reveal to them about her child. Never!


    "I have plans to move to another country. And, Auntie, I want you to come with me. Are you willing to follow me?"


    Although Noora was surprised to hear Bella plan to move to another country, she immediately nodded, agreeing to follow her. She could feel the warmth in her heart, knowing that Bella would not leave her to stay with the Sinclair Family.


    "Miss, you know my answer. Why bother to ask?" Noora smiles at Bella.


    Since she was a teen, Noora has already worked for Bella''s Grandma. And when Bella was born, she started to take care of her. She already thought of Bella as her own niece, her only family.


    Noora had no place to go; she had no family, so she would follow whenever Bella decided to go.


    "Thank you, Aunty Noora," Bella feels relieved. "And there''s something I want to tell you¡ª" Bella paused when Noora raised her hand to stop her speaking.


    "Wait, wait, Miss..." Noora panicked. "This is another shocking news!?" When she saw Bella frown, Noora continued her words. "Ugh, Miss... If this news is the same as your divorce news, shall we discuss it later!? Please have mercy on my fragile heart... I can''t stand to hear another shocking news!"


    Noora was afraid she might end up in the emergency room.


    Bella was speechless.

 Chapter 8: Plan (2)

    Chapter 8: Plan (2)Bella tried to hold back her laughter after hearing Noora''s sentence.


    "Aunty Noora, since when have you had heart disease?" Bella asked. Before Noora could say anything, she continued, "Well, don''t worry, you will not end up in the emergency room today, Aunty¡ª"


    Bella smiled when she saw Noora''s face look more relaxed.


    "I am pregnant!" Bella finally said.


    "W-WHAT? P-PREGNANT!?" Noora roared, shocked to hear that. She hadn''t expected to hear this good news from her. "Miss Bella, are you for real? You... you didn''t try to prank me, did you?"


    "Hmm, this is true, Auntie... Do you want to meet an OB-GYN with me?" Bella asked. She needed someone to see a doctor; she felt nervous about meeting the new doctor at this hospital. Because this is not the hospital, she usually visits.


    "Yes, miss, of course, I want to¡ª" Noora said excitedly. She feels so happy to accompany Bella to meet the OB-GYN doctor; however, a second later, she frowns when something crosses her mind.


    Noora was confused.


    Earlier, Bella said Tristan divorced her because she couldn''t bear a child. But now she said she was pregnant. So, why are they still deciding to divorce?


    "Miss, you are already pregnant but still divorced. Why?" Noora asked.


    Bella took a deep sigh. She wanted to give Tristan a chance to continue their marriage, but the gossip she heard before completely shut down her plan. She never imagined being able to share her husband with another woman. It would be better for her to go and raise her child alone without Tristan.


    "Aunty Noora, Tristan already has another woman to warm his bed," Bella said with a smile. Still, inwardly, she felt her heart hurt. "And his woman is also pregnant..."


    Bella continued to tell Noora about what she heard from the nurse.


    "So, divorce was the only option to solve this all. I decide not to tell him about my pregnancy. I will raise my child alone. And I hope you can help me, Aunty..." Bella sincerely said.


    "I will help you, young Miss, but did you believe them right away before confirming the gossip was true?" Noora asked.


    Bella didn''t immediately respond. Her mind flashed back to last night. She was initially doubtful about the rumors she heard, which made her investigate further, only to confirm that Tristan and Laura had visited the hospital yesterday.


    "I did check the gossip, and it was true, Aunty..." Bella maintained her smile, though inwardly, she struggled to contain the pain now gnawing at her heart.


    "Y-Young Miss..." Noora said while faintly smiling back at Bella, but her heart aching for her. She feels so angry; how could Tristan do such a thing to her young Miss?


    Seeing Aunty Noora''s sympathetic expression comforted Bella, momentarily diverting her mind from the pain in her heart.


    "It''s okay, Aunty Noora. You don''t have to look at me that way; I''m fine now," Bella said calmly. "What Tristan did won''t weaken me. Instead, I''ll grow stronger. I''ve already made a promise to myself to forget about him. That man won''t have a place in my heart and my future¡ª"


    Bella couldn''t finish her sentence as she noticed Noora rushing towards her, enveloping her in a hug. She smiled when Noora cried in her arms.


    "Miss Bella, I cry not because I''m sad but because I''m thrilled you included me in your plans. Thank you very much," said Noora between her happy tears.


    Noora felt immense joy because she would fulfill her promise to Bella''s late grandmother to care for Bella.


    "Miss Bella, I promise you, I will always look after you and your child..." Noora continued.


    "Thank you, Aunty," Bella said, her eyes blurry, but she tried not to cry. She had so much to do in a short time. "Alright, you can let me go now, Aunty... I feel suffocated with your embrace."


    Instantly, Noora released her embrace and stood before Bella.


    Noora wiped the traces of tears on her cheeks before saying, "Miss, I will prepare breakfast. You go change your clothes," urging Bella to do so. She was excited to accompany Bella to meet the OB-GYN.


    Bella nodded at her.


    After changing her clothes, Bella found Noora hadn''t returned yet. She took her phone and dialed Sean''s number. However, Sean''s cell phone remained inactive after she tried a few times.


    Bella remembered that Sean had told her that if he was on a military mission, his cell phone would definitely be off or couldn''t be contacted.


    "Is he on duty now!?" She muttered while looking at her phone screen. After thinking for a while, she decided to send a text.


    [Bella:] Thank you, Sean, for your help.


    [Bella:] I tried calling you, but it seemed like you were on duty. Please call me if you have time.


    After texting Sean, Bella checked for missed calls, finding only from Aunty Noora.


    Bella felt relieved that her family wasn''t aware of her divorce yet. She hadn''t planned to tell them; she wanted to avoid their judgment. She plans to leave the country quietly.


    ... sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With limited time, Bella contacted several people to take care of the documents she needed to live in another country.


    Once she finished, the door opened, surprising Bella as she saw Aunty Noora carrying shopping bags in her hands.


    "Aunty, why did you buy so much?"


    "Miss, this is all healthy food..." Noora replied as she unpacked the items onto the dining table.


    Bella approached, amazed at how quickly Noora had bought everything.


    Without saying anything, she began eating what Noora had served.


    After breakfast, Bella shared her plan to temporarily return to her old apartment.


    "I never imagined we''d return there again..." Noora mentioned. For the past four years, every weekend, she cleaned Bella''s old apartment, where Bella used to live before marrying Tristan.


    "That place is special because I bought it with my own money."


    "You''re right. Even your family didn''t know about that place. How many days are we staying there?"


    "Until all the necessary documents are ready."


    Noora fell silent before asking again, "Miss, which country are we moving to?"


    "Sweden!"

 Chapter 9: Snake Queen

    Chapter 9: Snake QueenIt was almost night when Bella arrived at her house¡ªTristan''s house.


    Actually, Bella didn''t want to return to this house anymore. But she needed to take out all her belongings, and most importantly, she needed to erase all traces of her in the house.


    She didn''t want to leave anything for Tristan to remember her. She wanted that man to forget her because she would do the same.


    ... S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella was done parking her rental car in the front yard, she saw Noora appear from the main entrance. Only saw Noora''s worried expression, enough to make Bella know something was happening inside.


    Bella silently sighed deeply before exiting the car, "Aunty, why do you look so annoyed?"


    "Young Miss, someone is waiting for you," Noora said with a worried tone. Bella could guess the person she is referring to.


    "Snake Queen?" Bella casually said while walking toward the door. She prepared herself to face her mother-in-law for the last time before she left this house.


    Noora didn''t utter anything but nodded. She took Bella''s bag and walked to follow her inside.


    "Aunty, have you finished packing everything I told you?"


    "Yes. I finished packing all your belongings and removed all your pictures in this house. But¡ª" Noora paused while stopping her step.


    Bella also stops while turning to look at Noora.


    "Miss, I didn''t enter young Mas... I mean Tristan''s bedroom. You know, his maid always guards that room and never lets anyone except him enter, right!?" She said hushedly, afraid someone would hear what they were talking about.


    Bella slightly frowned, but a second later, she smiled while tapping Noora''s shoulder gently.


    "Aunty, don''t worry. Tristan will never keep a picture of me inside his bedroom and study room..." Her lips revealed a barely noticeable smile when she remembered how cold Tristan was toward her during their four years of marriage.


    Only a few people know that they don''t share the same bedroom. They have their own room. Tristan only visits her room when he wants to make love to her. Her life in this house is like a palace woman in the Eastern historical drama, as a concubine.


    All this time, she was delusional to think Tristan had a feeling toward her, even just a little; that''s why she was okay with this arrangement.


    Noora was at a loss for words and felt sorry for her young miss. She knows how miserable Bella''s life is in this house, but she can''t change Bella''s mind about leaving because she knows that Bella truly loves Tristan. She could only guard Bella if someone tried to hurt her physically.


    Bella gave her car key to Noora, "Aunty, bring all my belongings and yours to the car. We will leave the house tonight after I settle my matter here," She smiles to reassure Noora that they will be fine.


    After she saw Noora leave, her smile gradually vanished. Her lovely expression slowly turns cold, ready to face the snake queen.


    Bella took a deep breath before walking confidently toward the living room.


    She tried to maintain Monalisa''s smile, yet in her heart, she was a little worried that Jessica Sinclair, her mother-in-law, could see what was inside her broken heart. She could not appear weak before this woman.


    "Mother," Bella greeted her first.


    Even though she hated Jessica, as a woman, she was impressed with how Jessica maintained her beauty and body. She still looks young even though her age is almost sixty. She always appears perfect to others, with heavy make-up and a beautiful hairdo.


    Bella never saw Jessica wear casual home clothes; she always appeared in her beautiful-expensive dress from the famous branch.


    "I''m sorry, Mother, I came home late. If you call me earlier, I will return faster," Bella said in her fake-apologetic expression. Still, she didn''t get any response from Jessica, only a bitchy glance.


    Bella didn''t mind how Jessica looked at her. She calmly sat across from Jessica while maintaining her smile.


    Looking at how calm Jessica is now, she hasn''t started to abuse her verbally; Bella could guess Jessica still doesn''t know about her divorce from Tristan. Because if this woman knew, she would have kicked her out of the house.


    "Mother, why are you waiting for me here? Is there anything important you want to talk to me?" Bella asked again, remembering Noora''s words that Jessica had been waiting for her since this afternoon.


    Jessica''s cold expression slowly changed as she smiled even though her smile didn''t reach her eyes.


    Bella wasn''t surprised to see Jessica''s cold smile; she used to witness that. She only smiles back at her while waiting for her to say something.


    After a few seconds of silence, Jessica finally said, "Don''t call me MOTHER." Her icy voice finally came, surprising Bella.


    ''Huh... She already knows!?'' Bella wonders.


    "Why do you still appear here? You better leave this place, Bella!" Jessica''s eyes were so sharp, as if she wanted to slap Bella with her gaze.


    "I''m impressed you already know about that matter..." Bella answered casually as she leaned her back on the sofa. She felt relaxed; she no longer had to pretend.


    Jessica was surprised to see how calm Bella''s expression was now. She thought Bella would make a scene in this house because Tristan divorced her.


    What she worries the most is that Bella will go to the media and talk to them about her marriage to Tristan, but she waits all day, and nothing happens.


    However, until now, Jessica still has not felt relieved, worrying Bella has a nasty plan behind their backs ¡ª humiliate the Sinclair family''s reputation.


    ''This little slut must be satisfied with the money Tristan gave her. That''s why she feels in a good mood and agrees to keep silent about her marriage with Tristan?'' Jessica wonders.


    After a few more seconds passed, Jessica finally spoke, "Of course I know," she paused when an evil smile slowly appeared on her lips, "¡ªbecause I forced Tristan to divorce you."


    Bella was stunned beyond words by what she heard.

 Chapter 10: Shocked

    Chapter 10: ShockedBella was stunned beyond words by what she heard. She didn''t expect Jessica, her mother-in-law, to be the one who asked Tristan to divorce her.


    Unbelievable!


    Bella smiled faintly, trying to cover her shock. She didn''t want to make this cruel woman satisfied with what she did.


    "Well, I already knew that..." Bella lied, pretending she already knew. "Did you also send Laura Kiels to seduce your son?" she asked casually, but Jessica''s answer surprised her.


    Jessica''s eyes widened, looking at Bella. She paused momentarily to show Bella her guilty expression before saying, "Oh, Bella... y-you know about her?"


    ''Tsk, Tsk, what a bitch! I know you are just pretending to feel guilty...'' Bella could only curse Jessica in her mind.


    "I''m sorry, Bella... But what Tristan and I did to you merely for the best of our family. You can''t blame us because you know the reason, right? Sinclair needs a successor. And Tristan is our only hope because he has no siblings." Jessica said regretfully, but Bella could see her ridiculed gaze.


    Bella maintained an¡ªI''m not interested¡ªexpression as she waited for Jessica to continue speaking.


    "I hope you didn''t say anything outside about your marriage to my son, Bella. You already sign the papers, right?" Jessica paused to wait for her confirmation. When she saw Bella nod, she smiled again before continuing her words, "You must remember, if you violate the agreement, your family company will be affected..."


    Bella laughs in her heart. She never wanted her marriage to Tristan to be known by others, too. This is the best for her because it would be troublesome if the media knew she had a child with Tristan Sinclair, the CEO of Sinclair Corp.


    "I understand," Bella said. "Any other thing you want to say?"


    Bella didn''t want to stay here longer. The more she shared the same air with Jessica, the more suffocated she was.


    Jessica was hesitant to ask, but after seeing Bella looked so calm. It made her worry; this girl had other motives. She wanted to make Bella completely disappear from their lives and accept Laura Kiels in their family.


    "When are you going to leave this house?" Jessica asked. Before Bella answered, she continued, "I hope you don''t stay here too long. Your status is no longer Tristan''s wife, and it doesn''t feel right if you still live in this house, right!?"


    No matter how angry Bella was, she tried to control her emotions. She didn''t want to lower herself to fight with this woman.


    Bella smiled, looking at Jessica before responding, "Ms. Sinclair, it looks like you didn''t know anything..."


    Jessica''s eyebrows knit, confused when she heard Bella''s words. "What do you mean?"


    "You can''t ask me to leave this house because your son has given this house to me," said Bella. She was amused when she saw Jessica''s face look pale as if she had just witnessed a ghost appear in the room. "But you don''t need to worry, Ms. Sinclair. Even though your son gave me this house, I will not stay here. Do you want to know why?" Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jessica opened her mouth, but no words came out of her lips. She was too annoyed with Tristan. How could he give this house to this woman!?


    "Because I can''t stand being around you, Miss Sinclair..." Bella continued, then she stood up from her seat with a smile on her lips. She suddenly felt happy seeing Jessica''s expression about to explode.


    "Ah, Ms. Sinclair, I''m sorry I can not talk to you longer; I still have a lot to do," Bella turned around and walked while continuing her words, "Ms. Sinclair, you know the door; I won''t send you out..." She said without looking at Jessica.


    Jessica couldn''t believe what had just happened. Her face turned red; her eyes stared sharply at Bella''s back as she disappeared behind the door.


    This is the first time she has witnessed Bella being impolite to her.


    ''Did a ghost take over her soul? How dare she have the guts to act like that before me?'' Jessica''s hands clenched into tight fists. ''Arabella Donovan!! You wait... I will make sure you suffer!''


    Jessica stood up from her seat while dialing Tristan''s number. She needed to ask her son to cancel this house. She didn''t want this house to fall into Bella''s hands!


    ****


    Seeing the bedroom she had lived in for the past four years for the last time instantly made Bella feel a little sad.


    Many memories were stored in this room, ranging from beautiful memories she would never forget to torturous ones she wanted to forget but couldn''t.


    Remember those painful memories, enough to make her want to cry, but no tears come out. She could only sigh silently while looking around.


    Bella felt this bedroom was empty. She saw no trace of herself in the room after Noora packed her belongings.


    Later, her gaze fixed on the bed with white bedding in the middle of the room.


    A bitter smile framed her face when she realized the bed was the only place Tristan touched when he came to this room.


    Sigh!


    Bella took a deep breath before walking to her walk-in closet.


    She saw a few beautiful gowns from famous brands still hanging with label tags. She didn''t bring all the dresses; Tristan was buying them. The funny thing is that she never wears all the dresses because she has no chance to wear them. Tristan never asks her to accompany him to public events like a gala or party.


    After that, Bella walked toward the connecting door between her bedroom and Tristan''s.


    Looking at the tightly closed door before her, she couldn''t help but smile bitterly.


    This door can only be opened freely from Tristan''s side. She can''t enter Tristan''s room because she doesn''t know the password.


    After taking another deep sigh, Bella slowly moved to the bedside table. Her eyes landed on the diamond ring on her finger. She released the ring and placed it on the table.


    "Bye, Tristan!" Bella whispered while holding back the sadness that was starting to swallow her.


    Bella turned, walked fast out of the room, and left everything about Tristan there.


    When she passed through the main door, she felt gradually better. She no longer felt the despair and sadness that almost overwhelmed her.


    Her eyes fixed on Aunty Noora, who opened the car for her.


    "Young miss, I will drive," Noora said. Bella didn''t utter anything; she nodded and entered the back row. She just wanted to leave that place.


    ...


    A man appeared from the corner when the car left the front yard. He took out his cell phone and made a call.


    "Master, Ms. Donovan left with her maid¡ª"

 Chapter 11: Tristan Sinclair

    Chapter 11: Tristan SinclairSinclair Tower.


    On the highest floor of the Sinclair building in the Fort City business center, a man in his early thirties, over 6 feet tall, stood by a glass wall. Even though office hours had long passed, he still looked dashing in a dark gray custom suit¡ªthat man was Tristan Sinclair.


    A few minutes had passed, and Tristan just stared at his cell phone in his hand after receiving a call from his butler.


    He didn''t understand why she left the house.


    In a rush!


    He already stated in his alimony that the house now belongs to her, so she didn''t have to move from that house.


    "Why did she leave now?" He muttered softly.


    ...


    "Boss," a man''s voice could be heard from behind. Tristan turns to look at the door. "Your mother called a few times, but your phone was busy. She asked me to tell you to call her back, something important she needs to tell you..."


    Tristan didn''t utter anything. He immediately dialed his mother''s number. On the first ring, the phone was picked up. Jessica''s voice sounded rushed when she greeted him. He could only sigh deeply, hearing his mother without interrupting her.


    "Tristan, why did you give our family house to that woman? Why do you decide things like that without telling your mother?" Jessica paused for a moment to take a deep breath; her chest felt tight with anger. "Son, our ancestors will be angry if the house falls to outsiders like her. Please cancel your offer; give that woman money as much as she wants..."


    Tristan felt a headache hearing his mother''s words. He massaged his eyebrow with one hand while taking a deep breath, "Mother, her name is Bella," he said calmly, trying to correct his mother. "And, Mother... I can''t undo what I gave her. The house is hers!"


    Tristan is sure Bella left the house in a rush solely because of his mother. He could imagine his mother kicking Bella out of the house. How troublesome!


    Jessica flared, hearing Tristan respond, "But Son, how could she live here if you married Laura? She will¡ª"


    Veins appeared on Tristan''s forehead. He didn''t let his mother finish her words, "Mother, I will talk to you later," he ended the call.


    After talking to his mother, Tristan continued to pinch his temple to distract himself from his headache; then, he glanced at Dylan, his assistant.


    "What happened!?" Tristan asked. He could see Dylan look panicked when he talked on the phone.


    Dylan walks toward Tristan. He stops a few steps from him before saying, "Boss, Mr. Turner, calls. He said he needed to speak to you. There''s something urgent you need to know."


    Tristan frowned, wondering why his lawyer needed to speak to him again. Did something happen with the task he assigned him?


    He immediately dial John Turner''s phone number.


    "Sir, I''m sorry to bother you now," John Turner''s voice sounded from the other end. "There''s something I need to report."


    "You can talk now," Tristan answered while walking to the sofa. He gestured for Dylan to leave him before he sat on the single black leather sofa.


    "I just remembered something important I must share with you, Sir. Yesterday, Ms. Donovan asked me to sell the house and all the shares you gave her..." John told him everything that had happened when he had met Bella the previous day.


    "Sir, do I need to sell the house as per Ms. Donovan''s order? I mean, is it necessary?" John Turner was confused because Bella asked him to sell the house immediately. "Sir, you know the house is on your family property, right? I can''t sell the land before consulting directly with you."


    The thin lines on Tristan''s forehead became increasingly visible. His confusion hadn''t disappeared upon learning that Bella was leaving the house, and now he heard that she wanted to sell the house.


    Tristan couldn''t understand what she was thinking. He had given her a lot of money and expensive property to support her in her old age; why did she still want to sell the house, too? Did she really need that much money to start her new life?


    ''Huh! What happens to me?'' Suddenly, Tristan feels something weird.


    This is the first time since he married Bella that he had thought about her. He wanted to know what she would do and what she would think. How strange!


    "Sir... are you still there?"


    Tristan snapped out of his thoughts when he heard John Turner''s voice.


    "John, don''t sell the house," Tristan finally said. "I need you to check the property price. If you get the market price, transfer the money to her. You have my approval to use my personal funds for that. And... about the share, you can also do the same."


    "Yes, sir, I will do as per your instructions."


    After talking with John Turner, Tristan didn''t do anything but just sat in his seat. His mind filled with thoughts of Bella. Something had never happened to him.


    "Why does this woman start to appear in my mind so often?" Tristan silently asks himself. He is confused by a nameless feeling in his heart. This is the first time he has thought about her, and every time her face appears, his heart hurts.


    Not finding the answer to his question, Tristan took the landline beside him. "Check where she is now," He ordered his assistant.


    "Sir, Miss Kiels is in her apartment now. She texted me just now, asking whether you would come to her house to attend the party." Dylan''s sentence stopped when he heard Tristan taking a deep breath.


    "Not her, but my wife!" Tristan said coldly.


    Dylan was stunned. "S-Sir, y-you mean your ex-wife?" he asked again, afraid he heard wrong.


    Tristan was utterly shocked. He clears his throat, "Yes. Her!"


    Dylan feels like thunder strikes him; this is the first time his boss has called Bella, his wife. "O-Okay, S-Sir, I will check..." he said immediately before his boss got angry.


    Tristan leans on the sofa and closes his eyes, waiting for Dylan to confirm Bella''s location.


    ... sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not long after, the door opened.


    "Boss, I found your wife... Ups, I mean... Ms. Donovan," Dylan scolded himself inwardly while walking toward the room, "She''s in her old apartment."


    Tristan slowly opened his eyes. He sat up straight, fixing his gaze at Dylan.


    "Prepare the car; we need to go there now¡ª" He said, then stood up.

 Chapter 12: Finally, He Call!

    Tristan slowly opened his eyes. He sat up straight, fixing his gaze at Dylan.


    "Prepare the car; we need to go there now¡ª" He said, then stood up.


    ...


    It had been several minutes since Tristan¡¯s car stopped in front of a five-story building. The street seemed empty; only their car was parked there. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This is the second time Tristan has visited this place. The first time was a long time ago. He came to this place just because his grandpa forced him to come to pick her up to move into their marital home.


    When he came here last time, he didn¡¯t feel anything. But now, looking at her house, a strange feeling arose in his heart, which confused him.


    He looked up at the third floor and saw yellow lights from one of the windows in the corner ¡ª Bella¡¯s bedroom.


    "Boss, do you want to go upstairs?" Suddenly, Dylan¡¯s voice could be heard beside the driver, distracting Tristan.


    He turns his gaze to Dylan, but no words come from his lips.


    "Ugh, s-sorry, boss..." Dylan feels like he wants to slap himself to ask that question. How stupid! He presses his lips and turns his gaze, looking outside the window, avoiding Tristan¡¯s sharp gaze.


    Dylan¡¯s words seemed to awaken Tristan from his confusion, and Tristan tried to think clearly again. He warned himself that he already divorced Bella. They don¡¯t have any connection; even though he wants to see her now, he can¡¯t bring himself to do so.


    He clearly remembers what John Turner said, that Bella asked him not to acknowledge her if they meet again.


    ¡¯What do you expect, Tristan? Just like you, Bella also didn¡¯t have feelings toward you. This is a business marriage¡ª¡¯ He says in his heart.


    Tristan turns his eyes again to the window on the third floor. When he saw the light turn off, his lips slightly lifted to form a faint smile.


    ¡¯It looks like she already sleeps.¡¯


    Tristan turned to look at the chauffeur. "You can move now!" he says, resting his back against the seat and closing his eyes.


    "Sir, where are we going?" The chauffeur asked while glancing at Tristan through the rearview mirror.


    Dylan, who sat beside the chauffeur, also looked at Tristan, curious to hear his answer about whether they would go to his penthouse or Laura Kiels¡¯ house.


    Waiting for a few more seconds, with no response from Tristan, Dylan turned his gaze to the chauffeur.


    "Drive to Miss Kiels¡¯ house¡ª" Dylan answered the driver. He already said they would attend the party even though his boss hadn¡¯t said anything.


    ****


    Bella turned off the light and walked toward the window to close the curtain.


    However, before she could close the window, her eyes spotted a black Maybach moving slowly on the street. Her hand halted slightly, and she looked at the car disappearing from her line of sight.


    "Since when did this area become wealthy people¡¯s playground?" She chuckled. It¡¯s been four years since she came here, and the last time she remembered, this area was only for middle-class people.


    When she was in college, Bella and her colleagues successfully invested. They earned decent money in their last year at university. With that money, she decided to buy this apartment.


    Although the house is small and in a middle-income complex, it is still near her university. She could walk to her campus in just ten minutes.


    However, after marrying Tristan, Bella no longer comes to this house. She only asked Aunty Noora to come regularly to clean the house.


    She hadn¡¯t planned to sell this house because this was the first property she bought with her own money. She will keep this one for her youthful memories.


    But Bella feels sad now because she has to leave this house again. She can¡¯t stay here anymore, as it¡¯s not a safe place to hide her pregnancy from Tristan Sinclair¡ª He knows about this place.


    She would be in trouble if Tristan knew about her pregnancy; he might snatch this child from her. This was something that made her very worried about staying in this country.


    Bella took a deep breath while trying to put aside her worries about Tristan. She walked to the bed and decided to rest her mind.


    However, before Bella could sleep, her cell phone rang. She immediately sat on the edge of the bed and took her cell phone from the bedside table. Her smile bloomed when she saw Sean¡¯s name appear on the screen.


    "Hi, Sean," Bella greeted him. She couldn¡¯t hold her smile, too happy that Sean finally called her.


    On the other end, Sean was frozen in his place. He did not intend to call her now but pressed the dial button without realizing it.


    "S-Sorry if I woke you up, Bells," Sean said apologetically. He didn¡¯t expect Bella to answer the phone on the first ring.


    "No. You don¡¯t wake me up," Bella replied. "I haven¡¯t slept yet. Well, I¡¯m so glad you called me now, Sean..." She had been waiting for his call all day, but he hadn¡¯t called.


    "Oh, thank goodness," Sean smiled, relieved to hear that. "So, how is your condition? Are you still in the hospital?"


    "I¡¯m fine. Thanks for finding me on the street, Sean." Bella smiled wryly at the thought of what happened at that time¡ªher subconscious made her almost end her life.


    Sean was silent and did not immediately respond. He knew that yesterday, Bella had intentionally walked in front of his car in the heavy rain¡ªshe couldn¡¯t think straight.


    "Glad to help," Sean said. "Ok, if there¡¯s nothing else, you better sleep now, we can talk another day when you feel much better¡ª"


    "Sean, wait," Bella immediately stopped him. "I just want to let you know that I will leave this country and move to Europe in a couple of days."


    "You¡¯re moving out of the country? Why? I mean..." Sean stopped his sentence, shocked. "¡ªDid you follow your husband?"


    Bella clenched her fist before saying, "Sean, I¡¯m divorced¡ª"

 Chapter 13: Departure Day

    Fort International Airport.


    Bella feels sad about leaving the country but knows it¡¯s time to go.


    Her priority is to distance herself from Tristan and his family. Besides, she wants to ensure a peaceful and secure delivery of her baby and regain her strength before returning to this country.


    However, the time to return here was still uncertain; she didn¡¯t know when that would happen.


    Walking along the gate, she feels even sadder, but later, her mind is distracted when she hears Noora asking her.


    "We¡¯re finally leaving¡­" Noora, walking beside Bella, glanced at her. "Young Miss, are you sure you don¡¯t want to call your grandpa?"


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to reply to Noora. She settled herself first in the waiting area near their gate.


    She did want to call her grandpa but was worried that if she informed him about her divorce from Tristan, he might be angry, and his heart disease could worsen.


    "Aunty, I¡¯m hesitant about talking to him," Bella said.


    Noora was confused to hear, "What are you afraid of?"


    "My Grandpa might be suspicious if I told him we are moving to Sweden. Well, Grandpa is smart. He will guess that Tristan and I are divorced¡­"


    "Ah, you are right." Noora agreed with Bella; Old Master Donovan will definitely know.


    Silence hangs in the air. But later, Noora asked again. "We can¡¯t hide this for too long, miss..."


    "Hmm, I know," Bella faintly smiled. "If one-day Grandpa knows, at least we are far away.


    He will not come after us to Sweden. And he will be less angry, so this is the right decision, Aunty." Bella said. She was crying internally, but on the surface, she was smiling.


    Bella turned her gaze away as I wanted to avoid Noora¡¯s other question. At that moment, she didn¡¯t want to talk about her family because every time she remembered them, her heart felt hurt.


    However, before Bella could completely forget everything about her family matter, she was shocked to hear someone recognize her.


    "Bells¡­" a man¡¯s voice could be heard from behind.


    Bella looked over her shoulder and saw a tall man with army-cut hair standing in the back, wearing a black shirt with the same colored jeans. A small smile appeared to frame his flawless face.


    This was the first time Bella saw him again in so many years. He still looked handsome, but his aura differed from the last time she saw him. Now, he exuded an aura of strength, discipline, and confidence. Standing tall with a well-built physique, he carried himself with a commanding presence.


    "S-Sean Spencer¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t hide how surprised she was to meet him here. She didn¡¯t expect this man to appear at her gate.


    ¡¯Was he also flying the same plane as me?¡¯ She wonders.


    Bella stood from her seat and stood before him, "Sean, are you traveling to Sweden too?" she asked.


    Sean Spencer didn¡¯t say anything but moved to guide her to sit in the corner. Afterward, they sat in chairs near the glass wall facing the plane parked outside. He finally answered her, "No. But, to another country..."


    "Ah, I thought you also flew to Sweden," Bella smiled, embarrassed with her thoughts.


    For a fleeting moment, Bella entertained the idea that destiny was playing a role in their encounters. This marks the second time they unexpectedly crossed paths after Sean found her passed out in the street.


    ¡¯Seriously, Bell!? Throw away those strange thoughts,¡¯ She couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She knows that their current meeting is purely coincidental. If Sean had been interested in her, he would have undoubtedly reached out after their conversation two days ago.


    However, he hadn¡¯t even sent a text.


    Bella slightly shakes her head, trying to throw away her wild thoughts. She asks, "Sean, are you alone?"


    She knows this country has a rule forbidding military men from traveling to another country unless they are on official military duty. But now, he was alone. It looks like he wants to go on holiday.


    He gazed at her, "Yes."


    "Why are you traveling abroad? I mean... Aren¡¯t military officers like you restricted from leaving the country?" she asked curiously.


    Sean¡¯s face instantly stiffened, but a second later, he regained composure, and a faint smile appeared.


    "Bells, I¡¯m sincerely sorry, but I can¡¯t disclose my reason," he said calmly. However, when he caught sight of her beautiful gray-light eyes staring back at him, a conflict seemed to stir in his mind.


    ¡¯Damn it! Why did this feeling hit me again!?¡¯ Sean tries to distract his mind, but this time, he finds it hard to do so.


    Bella refrained from pressing him further; she sensed this was connected to his military duties, a topic not to be taken lightly. She only smiles and turns her gaze, looking at the scenery outside.


    "I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t provide specifics, but so that you know¡­" Sean¡¯s voice surprised Bella.


    When she turned her gaze at him, she was even more surprised when she saw him lean closer to her. She held her breath, afraid to make a move.


    "I¡¯m not a regular soldier; I¡¯m in the special forces," Sean whispered. "Whatever rules you heard about military men in our country don¡¯t apply to my military branch. That¡¯s why I have the freedom to visit other countries."


    Bella blinked several times, gazing at Sean, who slowly pulled his head away, yet his intense gaze lingered on her.


    "I see¡ª" Bella said awkwardly. Later, something crossed her mind. "Sean, I need your help..."


    Sean was taken aback by her suddent request. "Yes, you may say that. If I can, I¡¯ll help you..."


    "I¡¯m not sure if you can do it," Bella said hesitantly, but she voiced her concerns anyway. "Can you erase my traces?"


    Sean raised his eyebrows slightly, puzzled by her question. Observing Sean¡¯s confusion, Bella continued her sentence.


    "Ugh, I mean, as far as I know, in the military... let alone special forces, there are usually cyber experts, a hacker. Can you ask them to erase my traces of flying to Sweden?" she asked.


    Sean didn¡¯t answer immediately. His mind reels back to two nights ago when Bella had explained that she was divorced and wanted to move on, living abroad.


    Hearing her request only deepened his suspicion that she had divorced her jerk husband and clearly wanted to remain hidden from him.


    ¡¯Who the hell is that man?¡¯ Suddenly, a thought crossed his mind ¡ª to find out the identity of her ex-husband, even if it meant breaking his promise several years ago never to investigate Bella¡¯s personal life.


    "Sean, if you can¡¯t, it¡¯s okay..." Bella said again after she saw Sean seemed to feel pressured and worried about her unreasonable request.


    She had no choice but to use her connections, even though she hesitated to contact them. Because if her old connection finds out she is no longer married, her life will definitely change. She will return to her old self ¡ª something she wants to avoid, at least for now.


    "Sure, I can do it for you," Sean¡¯s calm voice echoed.


    Bella was surprised to hear, "Y-You can do that?" she asked.


    "Yes," Sean said confidently. "Are there any other requests?"


    "I just want no one to know where I am. Well, except you, of course. I will give you my address later after I settle there..."


    "No need. I can find you¡ª"


    Once again, Bella was shocked. ¡¯Does he have a high position in the special forces? How can he be so confident?¡¯

 Chapter 14: Confused

    One hour before.


    Tristan found out from his butler that Bella had only brought two suitcases and removed all their wedding photos from the house before she left.


    Countless questions filled his mind: Why did she not take anything he had bought for her? Why did she deliberately remove all the pictures of her in the house!? What exactly does she think of?


    All the questions are enough to make Tristan¡¯s mind fill with her.


    He can¡¯t hold himself but returns home to check what exactly happened.


    Tristan parked his car in front of the entrance. He gazed at the house before stepping out, feeling strange upon returning after his divorce from Bella.


    After a few moments, Tristan steps out of the car. He said nothing to his butler, who was waiting near the entrance. He continues to walk to the second floor.


    ...


    He stood before Bella¡¯s bedroom for a while, unable to bring himself to open the door.


    "Master, you need me to open the door for you?" The butler offered after he saw Tristan standing there doing nothing.


    "No!" Tristan responded while dismissing him to leave him alone. After he heard his butler leave, he finally opened the door.


    Tristan swept the room with his gaze before he stepped inside. The room looks empty; there¡¯s no trace of her left there.


    He didn¡¯t see her laptops and belongings on her study table in the corner.


    There¡¯s no wedding picture hanging on the wall or at the bedside. He also didn¡¯t see any fresh white roses, which he usually saw in several places in the room.


    He couldn¡¯t even smell her familiar scent. It was as if the room had never been lived in before. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What remains is only the main furniture. His gaze fixed on the neatly arranged bed in the middle of the room.


    Tristan frowned slightly as his thoughts returned to their wild sex there. Instantly, he felt his veins rippling.


    Clenched his hands tightly, Tristan shook his head, trying to shake the image from his mind while gazing at the walk-in closet.


    Tristan walked toward the walk-in closet; he could see what his butler told him. Everything he buys for her is still there.


    Somehow, he feels disappointed.


    "This woman! How dare she make me confused now after we divorce?" He rubbed his brows while leaving the walk-in closet.


    Before leaving the bedroom, his eyes landed on a shiny object on the nightstand. His steps halted. With a frown gracing his forehead, he approached the object and was surprised to find the ring.


    "This¡ª" Tristan was speechless, gazing at the diamond ring. He had given Bella the ring when they married four years ago.


    A sense of regret slowly welled up in his heart, recalling that the ring was not his choice but Dylan¡¯s. He had instructed his assistant to purchase the ring because he didn¡¯t have time.


    "Man, why do you feel regret now!?" Tristan muttered to himself while stowing the ring in his suit pocket. He took a deep breath as he walked toward the connecting door, entering the password 1120.


    Tristan didn¡¯t head straight into his room but chuckled as he remembered using Bella¡¯s birthday as the password.


    He had chosen her birthday as a password because he feared he would forget her birthday. However, despite using her birthday as a password, he had never celebrated it with her, constantly occupied with work.


    Tristan walked towards his home office. His eyes fixed on the gold photo frame on the desk.


    He took the photo and looked at it¡ªhis heartbeat raced when he saw the picture. This is the only wedding photo and her last photo in the house.


    His hand slowly raised to touch her face, but before his hand touched the picture, his cell phone rang. He places the frame on the table.


    When he checked his cell phone, he was surprised to see Dylan¡¯s name appear on the screen.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why did he call?¡¯ Tristan was puzzled. He remembered Dylan was supposed to be on holiday.


    "Boss, I¡¯m sorry to bother you now," Dylan¡¯s voice sounded hesitant from the other end.


    "Speak! Why do you call?" Tristan asked, confused by his sudden call. This has never happened before. His assistant never contacted him when he took his leave.


    "Ugh, Boss... I didn¡¯t know whether you wanted to hear this or not. But, just now, I saw your ex-wife in this airport," Dylan said.


    Tristan didn¡¯t utter anything, but his gaze turned gloomy.


    "Ms. Bella with her maid," Dylan continued after they didn¡¯t hear Tristan saying anything. "I follow them and am surprised to see her enter the international flight terminal. So, I can¡¯t follow them to check their gate..."


    "She is going abroad?" Tristan¡¯s voice cracked, surprised to hear that. This woman never fails to shock him. She left the country only a few days after signing the divorce paper!?


    ¡¯Did she have a friend abroad?¡¯ Tristan wonders, feeling curious. He didn¡¯t know about this woman; what he knew about her was limited. And now, his curiosity towards her was starting to torment him.


    "Did you bring your passport?"


    "Y-Yes..." Dylan answered even though he was confused about why his boss suddenly asked about his passport.


    "I need you to buy a ticket abroad and search her gate!" Tristan said while leaving his home office and rushing to his car.


    "But boss... I have to fly to my hometown. You know I¡¯m on holiday now, right? I can¡¯t leave my gate now¡ª"


    "You can use my jet. Now, do whatever I ask you." His commanding voice made Dylan stop his step while staring at his gate with a gloomy expression.


    Dylan has to cancel to attend his friend¡¯s wedding party. He knows he will not leave this city until his boss finds his ex-wife.


    He left the domestic terminal in a rush.


    ...


    When Tristan arrives at the airport, he rushes to the international terminal, but when he is about to walk inside, he sees a familiar figure walk in his direction.


    "Sean..."

 Chapter 15: Confidential

    When Tristan arrives at the airport, he rushes to the international terminal, but when he is about to walk inside, he sees a familiar figure walk in his direction.


    "Sean..." Tristan smiled at him, "Are you going abroad?" he asked after accepting Sean¡¯s warm handshake.


    "Long time no see, bro..." Sean didn¡¯t answer him; instead, he greeted Tristan politely.


    Sean was stunned to meet this man here. He knows Tristan will never take a commercial flight. He might come here to meet his business partner.


    "Yes. It¡¯s been a while, Sean. Nice to meet you." Tristan smiles back at him. "Are you going abroad?" he asked again.


    "Nope. But I have just sent off my friend. How about you?"


    "Such a coincidence, Sean. I¡¯m also about to meet someone..." Tristan answers while checking his watch. "Man, I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t talk to you for a long; I have to go now. I will contact you later..."


    "Go! Don¡¯t make your friend waiting, bro..." S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Send my regards to your father, Sean."


    "Sure, I will!" Sean said and waved his hand, looking at Tristan walking in a hurry and heading inside. At the same time, his cell phone rang. He immediately checks and smiles, looking at the incoming text message.


    [Bella:] I¡¯m boarding now. Thank you for erasing my trace, Sean.


    [Sean:] (Smile emoji) I hope you have a safe flight, Bells.


    [Sean:] Text me when you arrive at your destination.


    [Bella:] OK!


    After placing his cell phone in his pocket, he walks in a hurry toward the pickup area. He saw a black van stop before him.


    "Capt, we better move now, or we will be late," a man with black clothes, with a similar posture to Sean, said. He opened the back row for Sean and gestured for him to enter.


    "Thank you," Sean smiled as he entered the car.


    His subordinate jaw dropped when he saw his icy captain¡¯s smile like spring had come after winter.


    ¡¯Wow, looks like our icy captain¡¯s heart finally melted...¡¯ He silently praised his captain. ¡¯Who the lucky girl who can tame him!?¡¯


    "What are you waiting for!? Why do you cosplay like the mannequin there?" Sean¡¯s icy voice strikes his subordinate from his trance.


    "Y-Yes, Capt!!" The man shouted. He rushed into the car, unwilling to make his captain even more sulk.


    ****


    Meanwhile, at the international flight terminal, Dylan felt tired and sweaty after he ran from one gate to another but couldn¡¯t find Bella and her maid.


    Dylan no longer has the energy to continue searching, so he decides to make a call to Tristan.


    "You found her?" Tristan¡¯s voice sounded impatient on the other end, which surprised Dylan. He didn¡¯t expect his Boss to pick up his call on the first ring.


    "B-Boss, I¡¯m sorry, but I didn¡¯t find Ms. Bella... It seems she is already boarding," Dylan said apologetically.


    Even though Tristan was disappointed he couldn¡¯t find Bella, he no longer forced Dylan to look for her. Instead, he asked Dylan to return to his hometown using his jet as promised.


    After Tristan ended the call, he didn¡¯t leave his spot, his gaze sharply looking at the flight information in front of him. Meanwhile, his mind was busy looking for answers to the questions now filling his mind.


    Tristan didn¡¯t understand why he was curious to know about Bella. The more he thought about it, the more he wanted to know her thoughts and why she suddenly left this country.


    After another few minutes, Tristan walked outside the airport while making a call.


    "Max, I want you to find someone. Her name is Bella Donovan; she left the country¡ª" Tristan continued to tell his hacker what he knew about Bella.


    "No worries, Boss, I will find her. This is an easy task!" Max responds confidently.


    Tristan finally smiles after hearing Max¡¯s words, "I will wait for the good news, Max!"


    ...


    While driving his car, Tristan feels even more confused to himself. He had never felt like this toward Bella; he wanted to meet her.


    This is weird. Because during their marriage, he never felt like being around her. He would only come home when it was time to carry out his duties as a man, solely to get her pregnant.


    Rushing to the airport only to catch a glimpse of her seemed a very unreasonable thing for him to do, but he did it anyway.


    What puzzled Tristan even more was that he didn¡¯t know what to say to her if they met. How strange!


    Not long after.


    Tristan¡¯s cell phone rang. When he saw Max calling, he immediately used his earbuds and picked up.


    "Hello, Boss. Can we talk now?"


    "Yes. You might speak." Tristan answers with a smile on his face.


    "Boss, I¡¯ve tracked Ms. Bella Donovan¡¯s flight information. But," Max¡¯s voice sounded confused and worried. "Something suspicious about her identity..."


    Tristan¡¯s smile slowly disappeared when he heard Max¡¯s words, "What do you mean, suspicious?"


    Max took a deep breath before saying, "Boss, I tried to track Ms. Bella Donovan¡¯s flight, but I couldn¡¯t find her data on any flights. And when I tried to track her other documents, looking for which country she applied for visas or anything related to her travels, but her identity can¡¯t be accessed..."


    Tristan was shocked. He immediately parked in the nearby parking area and continued his conversation with Max.


    "Are you sure about that, Max?"


    "Yes, Boss. Anything related to Ms. Bella Donovan can¡¯t be accessed¡ª"


    "What do you mean you can¡¯t access her database!? You just need to check the immigration database, right!?" Tristan was confused; this was the first time Max had failed to do something he had asked.


    "Boss, Ms. Bella¡¯s identity status is top secret. Only a few people in this country have this kind of status, a secret agent or the president of this country." Max explained further. "If I try to force it, the secret agent will come to my place in a few minutes and arrest me."


    As a hacker, there are rules he cannot break. One of them is disrupting this country¡¯s military cyber security. Even though he was confident in his abilities, he dared not do that.


    "How about her maid?"


    "Same. Ms. Noora¡¯s identity also can¡¯t be traced."


    No words came out of Tristan¡¯s mouth. He was simply shocked by the situation. He immediately ended the call and continued driving his car. However, his curiosity about Bella Donovan increased.

 Chapter 16: Avoid

    Stockholm, Sweden.


    After flying for several hours from their country, Astington, they finally landed at Arlanda International Airport. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This is not Bella¡¯s first time in this country. She has been here often and knows many places in this country well. She didn¡¯t contact anyone to pick her up this time, but she had rented a car.


    Bella had rented a car that she would use for a few weeks¡¯ stay in Stockholm before moving to North Sweden¡¯s countryside. She decided to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, wanting to spend her days in the countryside while enjoying nature and healing her mind and heart.


    ...


    After taking out their luggage, Bella and Noora headed out of the airport; however, when they left the terminal, Bella halted her step. She saw two familiar figures at the exit.


    "Damn!! Why are they here? Are they coming to pick me up?" Bella muttered softly. But Noora, walking beside Bella while pushing the suitcase trolley, could hear her words.


    "Young miss," Noora glanced worriedly at Bella. "You are pregnant; please use less words like that¡­"


    Bella didn¡¯t hear Noora¡¯s words because she was busy looking for ways to avoid two people she didn¡¯t want to meet. She turned in the opposite direction, pulling Noora to follow her.


    She wasn¡¯t ready to meet them, let alone return to the world she had left for so long. Right now, she only needs to live in peace and heal her wounded heart.


    But her efforts to avoid them were in vain. The two of them had seen her when she walked out the door.


    "Arabella Donovan, stop right there," called the woman with long, dark brown hair. She was dressed in a red executive office outfit. Despite wearing 7-inch high heels, her steps remained fast and steady as she followed Bella.


    Bella pretended not to hear; she quickened her steps, followed by Noora beside her, who was confused and worried when she realized someone recognized them as soon they touched down in this country.


    "Young Miss, are they Master¡¯s people... I mean, Tristan¡¯s people?" Noora asked in a whisper, but the tremor in her words clearly showed that she was panicking. "Oh... My... lord... they¡¯ve found us?" she said while glancing at the beautiful woman in the red suit and a handsome, tall man walking a few steps behind them.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer Noora. She just shook her head and continued to walk fast.


    "Not Tristan? Then who send them!?" Noora was trying to think. Before long, her face turned pale when a face crossed her mind. "Oh, no¡­ they must be Snake Queen¡¯s people, right!? They already found out about your¡ª" Noora didn¡¯t finish her sentence, but her eyes glanced at Bella¡¯s flat belly.


    Bella, "..."


    She feels amused hearing Noora¡¯s words. "Aunty, you are wrong. They are not from Astington." Bella answered quickly.


    "Huh!? Not from our country?" Noora asked again, but Bella didn¡¯t bother to answer her.


    Bella started giving up on running away from them both because she could hear their footsteps approaching. She thought that woman would not catch up with her when wearing such high heels, but she was wrong.


    The woman quickened her pace, "Oh, please, Bella... stop it now. We already know you will arrive today and where you will be heading!"


    Bella was stunned hearing her words.


    ¡¯Damn!!! How do they know?¡¯ She had avoided them for almost four years. And, for this trip, she had ensured they wouldn¡¯t find out. But they still found it. This confused her.


    Bella stopped in her tracks. She turned around to look at the woman and man behind. Her face didn¡¯t show any expression, ignoring the friendly smiles of these two people.


    Her gray-light eyes beamed, looking at them, "How did you know I landed today?" Bella asked.


    This is not normal; these two people appear in this country. They do not have business in Sweden, let alone live here. They must have flown here on purpose to wait for her.


    The woman in the red woman¡¯s suit answered Bella, "Oh my, Bella... even though your appearance changes..." She paused, shaking her head slightly as if she didn¡¯t want to continue her sentence. But her mind betrayed her. "Ugh, well, even you¡¯re a little fat now... I still recognize you, darling." She grinned, showing her beautiful bunny teeth.


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Damn this woman!! How could she have a vicious tongue!? How could she utter that lightly!?¡¯ Bella could only vent her anger in her mind.


    Even though she felt annoyed, she couldn¡¯t be angry. The woman in the red suit was telling the truth. She gained not a little but a lot of weight after getting married. Sometimes, she thought her ex-husband was not interested in her because she was not sexy.


    "Ups, sorry, my darling Bella..." The woman in the red suit said while slapping her mouth lightly. Then she continued her words, "And, my darling, you don¡¯t have to hide your beautiful face with that baseball cap. I still recognize you..." she giggled.


    Bella rolls her eyes, ignoring the woman in the red suit. She turned her gaze to the man in the black suit.


    She couldn¡¯t hold but was stunned looking at his features after so many years. He still looks dashing with his short hair combed neatly, his thin sideburns making him look like a mafia leader.


    What surprised Bella even more was that this man¡¯s aura was getting stronger. No one can resist his charm when he is in a public place like this, every woman now staring at him with their jaw-dropping as if they are looking at a treasure but can¡¯t touch it.


    However, for Bella, this man was the source of her headache; she wished she would vanish from this place, not ready to talk to him.


    "Jack, how do you know I landed here today?" Bella¡¯s voice sounded serious as she looked at Jack Foster¡¯s blue-calm eyes.


    "Geez... I¡¯m sad now. My Bella, Ignore me!" The woman in the red suit suddenly chimed in with a pitiful expression.


    Bella, "..."


    "Ooo, please, Harper Reed!" Bella sighs deeply. Her light-gray eyes slightly narrowed, her lips breaking into a faint smile. "Alright, Alright... you answer my question. I will pay attention to you," she said, feeling defeated.


    Bella has no choice but to talk to these two people ¡ª her best friend and the source of her headache.

 Chapter 17: Trust Me!

    Bella has no choice but to talk to these two people ¡ª her best friend and the source of her headache.


    Harper Reed, the woman in the red suit, smiles widely while walking to Bella. She pulled Bella into her arms and embraced her warmly.


    "I missed you so much, Bella. You won¡¯t know how happy I was when I found out you finally left that damn man!" Harper whispered close to Bella¡¯s ear, making her stunned.


    Bella lightly pushes Harper away to see her in the eyes. She is shocked knowing Harper knows about her divorce.


    "Y-You know about that!? How¡ª" Bella stopped her words as she realized something. She couldn¡¯t help but curse in her heart while turning her gaze at Jack. "Are you guys hacking my device? How do you know about that!?" she asked.


    It was strange that two people living in different countries knew about her divorce. Even her parents and grandfather don¡¯t know yet.


    Harper shook her head before responding to Bella, "Babe, we do know everything about your miserable life, but¡ª" Before Harper could finish her words, suddenly, Jack stopped her.


    "Alright, you both follow me!" He said and walked toward the exit. Leaving Bella and Harper gasping while looking at his back.


    "Ladies, I know my back looks tempting, but can you stop staring at it?" Jack said without looking at them. "We¡¯ll talk about it later. Quick, follow me!" He continued without giving them a chance to protest.


    Bella and the others didn¡¯t have a choice but to follow Jack.


    ...


    A black Bentley pulled up when they arrived at the pick-up area. Soon, the driver in a formal black suit exited the car. He swiftly opened the car door for Jack. But Jack didn¡¯t get into the car. Instead, he turned to see Bella and Harper.


    "Bella, Harper, enter the car now," Jack¡¯s commanding voice stunned Bella. She hurriedly shook her head. She refused to ride in his car.


    "Jack, I rent a car. Just tell me your address... I will find your place," Bella said.


    "No. You come with me. Just give the details of your rental car to my driver. He will take your car to my place..." Jack paused and then looked at Noora. "Ma¡¯am, would you mind riding in the car with my driver? He will take you to my place safely, and you will meet Bella there," he asked politely.


    Noora could see this man looked gentle and kind. However, she was still puzzled about what had happened.


    Previously, she thought Jack and Harper were terrible guys who chased them from Astington and wanted to catch Bella. But she was wrong; Her young miss knew them and seemed close.


    But Noora couldn¡¯t leave Bella alone with these two people¡ªshe didn¡¯t trust them.


    After being silent momentarily, Noora looked at Bella with a worried expression. "Young Miss, I can¡¯t leave you with them!"


    Bella smiled at Noora. She felt warm seeing how protective Noora was towards her. But she also understood why Jack asked Noora to take another car; he definitely wanted to discuss confidential information with her.


    "Aunty, it¡¯s ok. You can follow him." Bella tries to convince Noora.


    "But, young Miss¡ª" Noora walks to Bella. She leans closer to Bella and whispers. "I don¡¯t want to leave you alone, miss. I¡¯m worried they will kidnap or harm you," She said with her trembling voice.


    Bella almost choked hearing her words. She smiled while holding Noora¡¯s hand, "Auntie, they wouldn¡¯t dare to hurt me. They are the kindest people I have ever known..."


    Noora didn¡¯t move. She only stares at Bella with a mixed expression.


    "Aunty, you can trust me," Bella once more convinced her while tapping Noora¡¯s hand gently.


    After a while, Noora finally nodded. She left Bella with these two strangers, although she was still reluctant to leave.


    ****


    Jack drove the vehicle while Bella and Harper sat in the back seat.


    The two girls were immediately immersed in their conversation. Completely ignore him. He could only smile while driving the car at a moderate speed. However, his ears couldn¡¯t escape their chatter. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He found it funny to see Bella completely forget what she wanted to ask after Harper started to talk about her life in New York City. He let them chat and focused on driving his car ¡ª occasionally, he only glanced at them from the rearview mirror.


    After learning that Bella had suddenly moved to this country, Jack worried her emotions would be disturbed because of her divorce. And looking, Bella smiled widely while chatting with Harper enough to make Jack relieved.


    However, it wasn¡¯t long before Bella finally remembered.


    ...


    Bella looked at Harper, then at Jack, trying to see their gesture. She suspected that they had hacked her communication device or computer, which is why they knew about her divorce from Tristan and also her plan to move here.


    "Jack, Harper, tell me... how did you know I would land here today?" Bella was curious about their answers and worried at the same time. "Come on, guys. Please answer honestly," she said calmly, but her serious expression showed her frustration.


    Harper was just about to answer Bella, but Jack had already spoken.


    "Bella, even though I could hack your communication device, you have to remember that I would never do that to you," This time, Jack¡¯s voice sounded soft but clear to convey his sincerity.


    Bella instantly believed him. She knew Jack¡¯s character well; he would never lie to her.


    "We know you will move here and also know you have trouble with Tristan because you gave us a clue¡ª"


    "What are you talking about, Jack?" Bella said before Jack finished his words. "How could I do that without realizing it!?"


    After hearing Bella¡¯s words, Jack¡¯s face slowly turned stiff. He took a deep breath and refocused on the road ahead.


    Bella was confused, looking at Jack not answering her. Just before she wanted to ask, suddenly, Harper¡¯s laugh echoed in the car.


    "Hahaha... I know it!!" Harper said. She turned her gaze towards Jack. "Now, you believe me, Jack? I won! Don¡¯t forget to fulfill your promise."

 Chapter 18: Best Friend

    "Hahaha... I know it!!" Harper said. She turned her gaze towards Jack. "Now, you believe me, Jack? I won! Don¡¯t forget to fulfill your promise."


    Jack can¡¯t help but chuckle, "Well, you are so damn right, Harper. No worries, I will never back out from what I promised you."


    "Yay! Thank you, Jack. I will send you the car specs I want," Harper¡¯s smile grew wider. Then she looked at Bella again. The light in her eyes shone brightly as she said, "Oh, my lovely Bella, thank you so much..."


    Harper was pleased; she was going to get a new car after guessing that Bella was using her Swiss Bank because she didn¡¯t realize it.


    Bella frowned. Utterly confused.


    Countless questions now fill Bella¡¯s mind, hearing Jack and Harper¡¯s conversation ¡ª they completely ignore her question. Instead, they are talking about something she didn¡¯t understand.


    "What are you guys talking about!? Gosh, can you guys answer my question!?" She said impatiently.


    "Ups... Sorry, dear," Harper said. "Bella, did you forget what you declared in the past?"


    Bella was silent. She tried to recall something, but she still didn¡¯t remember anything.


    "When you decided to get married, you asked for time to step back from our business until you were ready to return," Jack said, focused on the road.


    "Yeah, I remember that. But I didn¡¯t say I would come back now. And what does that have to do with how you found out about my divorce?" Bella asked. Before she wanted to continue her words, she saw their car slowly turn to the coffee shop.


    "We will talk inside while drinking coffee," Jack said, turning off the car engine to look at Bella. "You don¡¯t mind, right?"


    "Sure," Bella smiled and followed Harper, who already left the car. "Tsk, can you wait for me?" she shouted, walking to Harper.


    The three of them now settle on the table near the massive glass wall, with the street view in front of the cafe.


    "Since when did you drink tea, Bella?" Harper asked, staring at the tea cup in front of Bella. She knew this girl was addicted to coffee and not a tea fan.


    Bella ignores Harper. She looks at Jack opposite her as if asking him to continue their conversation. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jack didn¡¯t rush to answer Bella. He was amazed to see her; he realized how different Bella was when they last met three years ago and the Bella sitting in front of him now.


    This woman gained so much weight and dressed like she was still in her first year at university, wearing an oversized hoodie and ripped jeans with sneakers to complete her casual appearance.


    However, although she wears a casual outfit, she still attracts people when they see her face; she looks beautiful.


    After a few seconds passed, Jack finally spoke, "Bella, you were the one who gave me that clue. You used your Swiss bank account¡ª"


    Jack¡¯s words nearly caused Bella to choke. She cleared her throat before saying, "Damn it! How could I forget about that!?" She tapped her forehead lightly, feeling embarrassed for being suspicious of them.


    "That¡¯s why I guess you wanted to come back. Because you are the one who told us that if one day you use your Swiss Bank Account, that time means you will come back to the company." Jack explained further.


    Bella lost her words. She felt like Jack had stabbed her right in the heart; what he said was true. She suddenly felt annoyed by her mistake.


    "Bella, maybe you forget. But four years ago, you gave me the authority to take care of your assets. And, when I saw a large transfer of money from Tristan Sinclair to that account, and a few days later, you made a transaction to buy property in this country along with plane tickets, I knew that you would be here today."


    Jack continued, "All transaction data from your Swiss bank account will be sent to my email¡ª" He chuckled amusedly, seeing Bella stop him from talking.


    "Okay. I won¡¯t blame you, Jack. But how did you know that he divorced me?" Bella asked again. There¡¯s no way he would know that just from her bank transactions, right!?


    Jack didn¡¯t answer her, but his gaze fixed on Harper. "You explained to her..." He said, then sipped his coffee.


    Harper smiled again at Bella.


    "I just assumed you left him¡­" Harper said casually. However, when she saw Bella narrow her eyes, she continued, "Geez, Bella... why are you suspicious of me?"


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she looked into Harper¡¯s eyes sharply as if she wanted to know what she was thinking, looking for the traces if she had lied to her.


    But Bella didn¡¯t see that Harper was lying. Just like Jack, Harper tells the truth. She feels relieved; they will never betray her ¡ª spying on her.


    "Oh, come on, Bella... I¡¯m a girl, too. I immediately knew something had happened with you when Tristan suddenly sent you that much money after four years you married him. And... my suspicions got even stronger when I found out you also bought a house in this country."


    She couldn¡¯t say anything. Harper is right. She fixed her gaze on her Earl Grey tea and sipped it slowly. For the next couple of minutes, she continuously sipped her tea.


    "Did I guess, right, Bella?" Asked Harper, almost sounding impatient.


    Bella placed her nearly empty cup on the table and glanced at Harper, "Hmm, you are right. Tristan and I divorced. But..." she fixed her gaze at Jack. "I won¡¯t return to the company."


    Jack straightened his back, hearing Bella refuse to return to the company.


    "Are you hurt that much that makes you want to hide from the world? Bella, you can¡¯t bury yourself in sadness. You deserve to be happy. Do something that can make you forget about that damn man." Jack said.


    Jack felt concerned seeing Bella¡¯s current condition. He knew that even though Bella smiled as she spoke and looked strong, deep inside, she must be hurt.


    "What Jack said is right, Bella. You can¡¯t dwell on sadness. You need to be happy too, darling..." Harper took Bella¡¯s hand and patted it gently. She was worried about her psychological condition.


    Bella smiled faintly. She was touched to hear that they cared so much about her. But unfortunately, they were wrong. Her divorce indeed hurt her, but the reason for not immediately returning to the company was because of her pregnancy.


    "Jack, let me correct my words... I won¡¯t return now, but please give me more time." Bella said.


    Jack and Harper feel relieved.


    "How long?" Jack asked.


    "Five years."


    "That long?"


    "Yeah, I need five years to care for my child before I start working again."


    Jack and Harper were utterly shocked.


    "Y-You are pregnant!?"

 Chapter 19: Five Years Later

    February 2023.


    Inside a small but modern cabin, Bella Donovan stood by a large window overlooking the frozen lake outside, clad in a light brown sweater and stirrup leggings.


    Even though she wore casual house clothes, Bella still looked stunning; her skin was pale but radiant, contrasting with her black hair cascading down her back. She no longer looks overweight but has returned to her ideal weight. Her sexy body curves are now more visible.


    Her light-gray eyes were fixed on the frozen lake while her hand held a cup of coffee ¡ª she was lost in her own thoughts, thinking about her return plan to her country, Astington.


    She still wanted to enjoy this winter in North Sweden before returning; however, she couldn¡¯t delay any longer, as the company needed her. Jack called her almost daily to remind her about their branch in Astington.


    And,


    The biggest reason for her to return as quickly as possible was her grandfather. The last news she heard was that her grandfather was seriously ill.


    ...


    "Mommy¡ª" a boy¡¯s voice sounded in the room, snapping Bella from her thoughts.


    Her smile grew wider when she saw a chubby, fair-skinned little boy walking toward her ¡ª he looked so cute in his black pajamas.


    "Good morning, my little prince Dax..." Bella greeted him with a big smile while placing her coffee cup on the table.


    Half kneeling before him, Bella looked into Dax¡¯s brilliant blue eyes. She became increasingly worried as her son started to resemble Tristan more and more each day, with similar eye and hair colors.


    The thought of Tristan or his family seeing her son made her nervous. One of the biggest worries she returns to Astington is how to hide Dax from Sinclair.


    "Why did my little Prince not greet his mommy? And why do you look angry this morning?" Bella playfully asked him while rubbing his warm cheeks.


    "Mom, good morning," the cute little Dax finally said with a deadpan expression.


    Seeing Dax¡¯s expression, Bella thought again of the man she wanted to forget. ¡¯Gosh... how can they have similar expressions like this?¡¯ Bella could only sigh in her heart.


    "My prince, how¡¯s your sleep?"


    "Stop calling me prince, mommy..." Dax protest.


    Bella chuckled, "Oh baby, you have to accept that. You will be my Prince until you grow older..."


    Dax shook his head but didn¡¯t utter anything. He just helped Bella to stand on her feet.


    "Let¡¯s sit and talk, Mom." He held her hand and led her to sit in the seating area near the fireplace.


    "Why didn¡¯t you like me to call you like that? That sounds cute," Bella asked after they settled on the couch.


    "I¡¯m not a prince," Dax answered her while crossing his hand over his chest. "I prefer you call my name Dax or Daxton. That the reason you gave me a name, to be called, right?" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella, "..."


    She tried hard not to laugh, hearing how mature this little man spoke to her.


    "All right... I will stop calling you like that, but promise not to be angry anymore, huh!?" She said while ruffling his soft hair.


    Dax smiled at his beautiful mother with his blue eyes fixed on her. Hearing someone call him Prince and talk to him in such a cute way made him feel like he was still a baby. He can¡¯t stand it!


    "My Daxton looks so handsome when he smiles like this..." Bella smiled back at her son, leaned closer, and kissed his chubby cheek.


    Bella always prays that this little man will not grow so fast. But it seems God didn¡¯t hear her prayer. Since last year, when Dax started speaking fluently, he began to look different from other kids his age¡ªspeaking with correct articulation and behaving like an adult.


    He wasn¡¯t interested in toys like other children but liked reading books, using a computer, and playing music.


    By day, Bella saw how fast Dax progressed in learning everything. It worried her. However, Noora said Dax was a genius and didn¡¯t need to worry; instead, she had to be proud of him.


    "Mom, when are we going to meet great-grandpa!?" Dax suddenly asked, surprising Bella.


    She silently sighed deeply, remembering her promise to Dax that she would bring him to meet his great-grandpa once they arrived at Astington.


    "I told you already, right? We will visit him once we arrive," Bella answered. "Have you packed? Don¡¯t bring too much. We will buy anything you need there..."


    They would leave this house tomorrow and stop in Stockholm overnight before returning to Astington.


    "Hmm, Grandma Noora already helped me pack. Don¡¯t worry, mom... I only brought a few of my clothes and my book."


    ****


    Today, Bella will fly back to her country.


    When Bella arrived at Arlanda Airport, she was surprised to see Jack Foster near the check-in counter. And as usual, he appeared in his formal attire, a perfectly fitted suit specially made for him. His hair was neatly styled, making him look incredibly handsome.


    He just stood there, doing nothing but could attract the attention of people around him. They saw him as if he were a wealthy nobleman.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but smile widely; looking at him, she held Dax¡¯s hand and walked toward him.


    "Jack, so happy to see you here," Bella smiled widely and turned her gaze at her son, "Dax greeted Uncle Jack."


    "Hello, Uncle Jack," Dax said while offering a handshake to Jack.


    "Little man, it¡¯s nice to meet you again. You look taller than before..." Jack said while accepting his tiny hand gently.


    "Jack, thank you so much," Bella took the luggage trolley from Noora and pushed it to Jack. "You are truly my best friend; I didn¡¯t expect someone as busy as you to come here to help us..." She gave him their plane ticket and passport.


    Jack, "..."


    He almost choked hearing her words.


    ¡¯Who comes here to help you take care of your luggage?¡¯ He came here today to ensure she returned to Astington. Their company is waiting for her return to take over.


    Jack wanted to answer her but was speechless when he saw Bella walk away toward the seating area.


    He chuckled while gesturing to his bodyguard.


    "You take care of this..." Jack ordered, then followed Bella.

 Chapter 20: Fly Back To Astington

    Bella and the others rest in the cafe shop before entering customs.


    "You only have 30 minutes, Jack," She said while her eyes fixed on Dax and Noora, who sat at the other table with a man wearing a black casual outfit ¡ª Jack¡¯s bodyguard.


    "Have you ever read the gossip in Astington?" He was curious to know what she thought about what had happened recently regarding her ex-husband.


    Jack never asked about this when he visited Bella at her cabin. He didn¡¯t want to ruin her happiness. But now Bella has to face reality; she couldn¡¯t avoid it. Because, sooner or later, she and Tristan will definitely meet.


    "No. Well, you know that I didn¡¯t want to stress myself. Why did you ask? Did something happen there?" Bella calmly replied, but for some unknown reason, of course, her heart slightly trembled.


    Jack chuckled slightly. He could see her worry flash through her gaze.


    He gave her an iPad. "Take this. I already summarized every piece of information from Astington that is related to you... about your ex!"


    Slowly, Bella¡¯s expression became sour. She didn¡¯t expect Jack to feed her about this information right away before she flew there.


    She narrowed her eyes, looking at Jack. As if wanted to scold him, "What a heartless young man!"


    Jack can¡¯t hold his laugh, looking at Bella¡¯s annoying-looking eyes.


    "Oh, come on, Bella! Five years already, and you still have feelings for him?" Jack casually said, wanting to tease her, but his words were like a slap in Bella¡¯s face, her face red.


    When he doesn¡¯t hear Bella say something, Jack starts to worry about her condition; she still harbors feelings toward Tristan Sinclair, which is not good.


    "Alright, just forget it. Give me the iPad, and I will delete all files¡ª" S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Who is afraid reading about him?" Bella didn¡¯t give Jack a chance to finish his words. She glared at him for a few seconds before turning her gaze to the iPad. She is now curious about the news that Jack wants her to read.


    There was a proud smile now framing Jack¡¯s face.


    He continues, "I also save files related to your work so you can read them before joining the company. Well, you don¡¯t have to visit the office right away; you said you would visit your grandpa¡ª" Jack paused when he saw a frown on her forehead.


    Curious about what she read now, he glanced at the iPad screen.


    Suddenly, a soft chuckle escaped from his lips when he saw Bella read news about Tristan marrying Laura Kiels.


    ¡¯What do you expect, Bella? Of course, he will marry her; she is pregnant and could give him a child, the successor for the Sinclair family...¡¯ Bella speaks to herself, trying to calm her mind while not showing much emotion reading the news.


    She closed the news and read the file about their company. However, she got distracted by Jack¡¯s voice.


    "That¡¯s only gossip news, Bella. Don¡¯t worry too much about that."


    "Gossip?" Bella slowly lifts her head and looks at Jack. "He didn¡¯t throw a party for her?"


    Actually, Bella didn¡¯t want to talk about this, but she felt sorry for Laura because Tristan and his family treated Laura just like hers; there was no wedding party.


    ¡¯Why does he always want to hide his status from the public!?¡¯ She wonders.


    "Why didn¡¯t they have a party?" Bella casually asked.


    "As I said, that¡¯s only gossip. Sinclair never makes any statement. But they also never stop that woman from uploading a few pictures on her social media when she meets Tristan. That¡¯s why the gossip is still on fire..."


    Bella didn¡¯t comment anything; she pretended not to be interested, but in her heart, she was curious to know something. If they had children, he should marry Laura, right!? Why he didn¡¯t? Did he only want a child from her?


    Bella found herself irritated with Tristan and his family for the first time since separating from him. They only exploit women, using them solely to produce heirs to carry on their family legacy.


    ¡¯Tsk... Tsk... Tristan, you are such a player and jerk!! How dare you do this to all women!?¡¯


    Seeing that Bella didn¡¯t seem interested in gossiping about Tristan, Jack began to explain about their company.


    "Bella, you know our company was established in your country a few years ago, right?"


    She nods.


    "Doing business in Astington is not as easy as you think, Bella. Three large companies are difficult for us to collaborate with. You already know the number one company, right?"


    "Hmm, Sinclair!"


    "Indeed, Sinclair Corp is the biggest in Astington now. So, you can¡¯t avoid him forever; you must prepare yourself¡ª" Jack continues explaining their business plan at Astington.


    "I get it! No worries about that." Bella could only smile when she realized Jack¡¯s concern.


    "Perfect! I put all the details about recent news in the business world on that iPad; you can read it later."


    Jack couldn¡¯t deny that Bella was the best in their class. She was intelligent and rustless when she dealt with her work. It¡¯s not wrong if they rely on her to embark on Astington Market.


    "And don¡¯t worry too much. Even though our company is still small in Astington, our main business was big enough to worry them. Maybe you didn¡¯t know, but we are in the top twenty-five globally."


    Bella is slightly surprised, but a few seconds later, her smile blooms.


    "No wonder the amount of money I had in my savings surprised me. Jack, with that money, I don¡¯t have to work and can still live comfortably..."


    Jack¡¯s face suddenly turned tense, "Bella, don¡¯t ever think that you will back down!!" he said quickly, knowing that this girl had been resting too long.


    "Hahaha, don¡¯t worry, Jack." Bella burst into laughter when she saw Jack¡¯s panicked expression. "I won¡¯t back down. Besides, I need money to raise my son. He has expensive hobbies..."


    Jack feels relieved, but then something crosses his mind, "Did you have a plan to handle Sinclair? They wouldn¡¯t stay silent if they knew Dax was part of them, right?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. Instead, she stood up from her seat. "Alright, your thirty minutes have finished. Bye, Jack!"


    Jack chuckled, "If I have time, I will visit you..."


    "Hmm, see ya!" Bella waved at Jack as they left.

 Chapter 21: She’s Back! (1)

    After a long flight, Bella finally arrived at Astington.


    However, instead of stopping by Fort City, they headed to the domestic terminal and flew about 30 minutes to visit her hometown, East City.


    Bella plans to visit her grandfather before settling in the capital, Fort.


    ...


    Upon arrival at the East City airport, Dax was sleeping soundly ¡ª He was exhausted and jetlagged. Bella didn¡¯t have a choice but to carry her son along.


    Carrying her son out of the airport to the parking lot wasn¡¯t a problem for Bella, but Noora was stressed when she saw her.


    "Young Miss, let me carry him," Noora felt sorry seeing Bella carrying Dax. She feared Bella would be tired because she knew Dax had recently gained weight. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It¡¯s okay, Auntie... our car isn¡¯t far," Bella said as they walked towards the parking lot. She deliberately didn¡¯t tell anyone about her return today.


    Bella rented a car and stayed at the hotel ¡ª she didn¡¯t plan to stay at her parents¡¯ house.


    "But, miss, you are tired. Let me carry him..." Noora said while pushing their luggage trolley in a hurry to match Bella¡¯s step.


    Bella slightly laughs, hearing Noora¡¯s worries. "Auntie, have you forgotten how, in the last three years, I was able to return to my ideal body?"


    Noora smiled softly before saying, "Sorry, miss... I forgot." She knew how hard Bella had done physical training and martial arts after giving birth to maintain her fitness and looks. Even though Bella¡¯s body looks small, her strength and agility might be better than hers.


    Bella said nothing but quickened her steps, looking for the car.


    The temperature dropped when they arrived in the parking area ¡ª there were no heaters in this place ¡ª she worried her son would be cold.


    But Bella started to worry because she couldn¡¯t find the rental car that was supposed to be there.


    "Aunty, please check once again whether the parking location is correct?" Bella asked. Then, she continued to look for their rental car with Dax on her shoulder.


    When Noora was busy reading the paper in her hand, Bella was suprised to see a white Audi Q7 driving towards them at a slow speed and stopping just a few steps away from her.


    "Oh my god, why did he appear here?" Bella muttered softly while blinking several times to ensure she didn¡¯t see wrongly.


    At the same time, Noora, who had just finished checking the car rental receipt, was also shocked to see the man who drove the white car. She approached Bella, "Y-Young Miss, did you tell him we will arrive today!?"


    Bella shook her head, "No. I didn¡¯t tell him at all¡ª" she was shocked to see his presence in this place. She didn¡¯t move from her place, but her eyes were fixed on him.


    She saw him get out of the car and walk fast towards her. Looking at him again after six months, he became more handsome, especially when he wore his long black coat.


    "Let me carry Dax..." he said, taking Dax from Bella¡¯s arms.


    "Why are you here? How do you know we are arriving today!?" Bella asked, confused.


    "Aren¡¯t you happy to see me?" The man asked while smiling wryly at Bella.


    "No," Bella quickly answered when she saw his face look gloomy. "Sean, I mean... I¡¯m so happy you come here. But I was just confused; how did you know we were here? I didn¡¯t tell you that I would be landing here today..."


    Sean didn¡¯t answer her immediately but gave a sign to Bella and Noora to follow him to the car. After he put Dax in the back seat, he looked at Noora, "Aunty Noora, could you please hold Dax..."


    Noora didn¡¯t say a word; she could only smile at Sean Spencer and get into the car while placing Dax¡¯s head on her lap.


    Bella was speechless, looking at Sean, seems to ignore her. She stood in her place, waiting for him to say anything.


    But Sean completely ignores her. She didn¡¯t get in when he opened the car door for her.


    "Bells, do you want me to carry you into the car like Dax?" Sean casually said while blesses his eyes with her beautiful face.


    Bella¡¯s face turned red. She quickly got into the car, hoping to hide her embarrassment.


    An amused grin framed Sean¡¯s face when he saw her blush. He closed the door for her. After he placed their luggage in the trunk, he rushed to the driver¡¯s seat.


    "Did you, perhaps, cancel my car rental?" Bella asked when she saw him sit behind the wheels.


    Sean smiles slightly while turning on the car engine, "Hmm. You¡¯re right; I asked them to cancel your booking."


    "Y-You..." Bella wasn¡¯t surprised anymore. This guy could get any information if he wanted, including her flight details¡ªjust like five years ago, he was able to hide her location.


    But still, Bella was curious. She couldn¡¯t help but ask him, "So you track me using my device?"


    Sean quickly glanced at Bella. He shook his head.


    "Nope. I knew you arrived in this country when the immigration officer scanned your passport. And I was lucky to find out you rented a car, so¡ª" He didn¡¯t finish his words but only flashed a meaningful smile at her. Then, he turned to look forward.


    The car slowly moved.


    "No wonder I can¡¯t find my rental car," she faintly smiled while looking ahead. But later, something crossed her mind. She looked at Sean again, "Please don¡¯t cancel my hotel, Sean!"


    "I won¡¯t. Have you forgotten who owns the hotel?" Sean said without glancing at her, but Bella could see him smiling.


    A look of surprise flashed across her eyes, but ultimately, Bella smiled too. How could she forget Star Hotel!? That hotel is owned by S Group, Sean¡¯s family company.


    When Sean didn¡¯t hear Bella saying anything, he glanced at her, saying, "Bells, don¡¯t worry, I will ask them to give you a discount..."


    Bella, "..."


    "Are you trying to humor me, or are you serious about that?"


    He spoke slowly but clearly, "You can choose which one you want, Bells..."


    ¡¯Gosh! Why did this man become more shameless after our last meeting?¡¯ She was left speechless speaking to him.

 Chapter 22: She’s Back! (2)

    At Fort City.


    Dylan walks out of his office after receiving a sudden report from Max. He is thrilled and rushes to Tristan¡¯s office.


    After many years, they track Bella Donovan and finally find her. Just now, Max informs him that Bella Donovan has just entered the country.


    At first, Dylan didn¡¯t believe it because they had consistently failed to find her several years ago. But when Max sends him CCTV footage of Bella in the airport, he confirms that they have found her this time. Yes, she¡¯s back!


    This news is worth celebrating.


    Dylan stopped right before the CEO¡¯s office. He sighed deeply before knocking on the door, but he didn¡¯t hear a response from inside.


    He feels impatient. Just before he wanted to knock again, Tristan¡¯s soft voice could finally be heard.


    "Enter."


    Dylan excitedly opened the door, "Boss, she¡¯s back!"


    "Who?" Tristan Sinclair asked while scribbling his signature across stacks of papers.


    "Your wife¡ª" The assistant hesitated, watching Tristan closely. When he saw Tristan¡¯s furrowed brows, he corrected himself. "Sorry, I mean your ex-wife, Ms. Donovan. She¡¯s returned with a boy..."


    Tristan sighed, eyeing the contract before him.


    After five years of searching, only to find out she¡¯s moved on, it feels hurt. But he couldn¡¯t avoid it. She deserves happiness with someone else. He¡¯ll take this loss.


    "She deserves a new husband..." Tristan muttered, dismissing his assistant.


    "Boss, what I meant was the cute little boy. I think he¡¯s around four years old¡ª"


    Tristan snapped. His head up, fixing his sharp gaze on his assistant.


    "I need you to arrange a DNA test for the kid. And get me her address!"


    A glimmer appeared in his eyes as a smile slowly spread across his face. But the light in his eyes vanished instantly when he heard Dylan¡¯s following words.


    "B-Boss... Ms. Donovan is not in this city. She flew right away to her hometown," Dylan said.


    Tristan pondered momentarily, looking as if he was thinking about something.


    When Dylan saw that Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, he continued to explain the information he had just received from Max.


    "She¡¯s going back to East City!?" Tristan frowned. He was curious why she had come back and flown there right away. "Are you sure the kid who came with her is four years old!?"


    He wanted to believe that the kid was his son, but something confused him; why didn¡¯t she call him if that was the case?


    Countless questions now filled his mind. ¡¯Did she hide something from me? Did she get married after we divorced and get pregnant right away? Why did she rush to meet her family?¡¯


    The more Tristan thought about it, the more confused he became. However, not long after, he remembered what his grandpa had told him: Old Donovan was admitted to the hospital last month, and he is in critical condition.


    ¡¯She must be returning to East City for her grandpa, right!?¡¯ he thought.


    Tristan fixed his gaze again on Dylan. "Prepare my jet. We will fly there now. I need to meet her and find out who that child is. Is she staying at her parents¡¯ house?"


    "No. She is staying at the Star Hotel."


    Tristan was stunned.


    Confusion arose again in his mind, ¡¯Shouldn¡¯t she be living at her parents¡¯ house?¡¯ Tristan slightly shook his head. He dismissed Dylan to arrange everything and then continued to finish his work before flying to East City.


    ****


    While at the Star Hotel in the East City, Bella settled in the presidential suite on the top floor.


    The presidential suite room in this Star Hotel has two bedrooms, one master bedroom, a kitchen, and a vast living room. She needs a massive place as she has Noora, who will take care of Dax.


    She didn¡¯t plan to stay in this city for too long, so she chose to stay in this hotel instead of renting an apartment or buying a house. She avoided staying here for too long because her family¡ªnot even her grandpa¡ªdidn¡¯t yet know about Dax. She plans to tell him after she meets him.


    Bella led Sean to Dax¡¯s bedroom. When she saw him place Dax on the bed, she felt a warmth inside her heart. This was not the first time Sean cared for her child, and she always felt happy whenever she witnessed their closeness.


    "Thank you, Sean..." Bella smiled at him.


    ...


    Later, they both settled in the spacious living room after Bella cleaned herself and changed her clothes. She is ready to visit her grandpa at the hospital.


    "You said you will visit your grandpa at the hospital?" Sean asked when he saw her seated opposite. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes. Sean, I need a car during my stay here. Can you not cancel my car rental!?"


    "Bells, there¡¯s no need to rent. I¡¯ll ask the staff hotel to provide a car and driver for you."


    Bella felt relieved hearing his offer. "Alright, I will not refuse your offer... Thank you."


    "But today, I will drop you at the hospital," Sean said.


    "Okay. But, how about your work?" Bella felt sorry for this man. He had to leave his duty only to pick them all up at the airport, which is why she didn¡¯t want to tell him she would return today.


    "I will return to my base camp after I drop you off at the hospital. When you finish, a driver from this hotel will pick you up."


    Bella nodded, agreeing with him. She said nothing else and stood up from her seat, ready to visit the hospital.


    "Wait, you will go now? What about Dax?" Sean was confused.


    Bella stopped her step and turned to look at Sean. "I didn¡¯t intend to bring him now. Because my family, including Grandpa, don¡¯t yet know about him."


    Sean was surprised. "You still don¡¯t trust him?" He was puzzled because what he knew was that Bella and her grandfather had made up after she suddenly divorced and moved to Sweden.


    "I trust him, but I don¡¯t trust anyone around him. I will meet him first and then find a suitable time for him to meet Dax."


    Sean no longer asked anything, not wanting to make her feel sad again. He stood from his seat and followed her to the entrance.


    However, when Bella and Sean were about to leave the hotel room, Dax¡¯s voice suddenly stopped them.

 Chapter 23: He Is My Father?

    However, when Bella and Sean were about to leave the hotel room, Dax¡¯s voice suddenly stopped them.


    "Mommy, where are you going?" Dax¡¯s adorable baby voice sounds from behind.


    Bella turned to look at him. Her smile grew wider when she saw Dax, with his messy hair, standing near his bedroom door. He rubbed his eyes to clear his vision.


    Dax only wore black pajamas, showing his rather large stomach. Seeing him now made Bella¡¯s heart waver because he looked like a toddler only when he woke. How adorable!


    Bella walked back to him and half knee to match his eyes.


    "Baby, you¡¯re finally awake. I¡¯m going to visit your great-grandfather," she said, rubbing his cheek. "You¡¯re waiting for Mom here with Grandma Noora, okay..."


    Bella continued her words when she saw him pouting as if he didn¡¯t like her idea.


    "Daxton, stay here with Grandma Noora for a while. I promise I will come back as soon as possible."


    ...


    Until now, Dax has refrained from asking his mother about other family members, including his father. So far, his mother has only mentioned his great-grandfather.


    Since the previous year, when Dax knew they would return to Astington, he had finally been excited to meet this familial figure. But hearing his mother didn¡¯t plan to bring him now to meet great-grandpa, he felt worried. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He shook his head, "Mommy, I want to follow you. Please take me to meet my great-grandpa. I promise I will behave well." His tone reflected sadness as he looked his mother in the eyes.


    Bella held his shoulder gently before saying, "Baby, of course, Mom will bring you to meet great-grandpa, but not now. I need to check his condition first..." Bella patiently explained.


    "You were aware your great-grandpa was sick, right?" She asked.


    "Hmm, I know... but¡ª" Dax¡¯s voice faded when his eyes looked at the man standing behind his mom. The light in his eye glows, and a smile slowly appears on his lips.


    "Uncle Sean, you come..." Dax rushed to Sean and hugged him.


    Bella chuckled when she saw Dax¡¯s sadness fade. Watching Dax¡¯s rare, wide smile left her speechless ¡ª her adorable little son only smiled like this when he saw Sean.


    "Little man, I miss you..." Sean lowers his head to meet his gaze, then carries him in his arms.


    "I miss you more, uncle. Why did you never visit us again?"


    Before Sean could respond, Bella said, "OK baby, go inside. Mom has to go now..." she said as he tried to take Dax from Sean, but Dax refused. She frowned.


    "Mom, let me follow you. I want to play longer with Uncle Sean..." Dax said as he put his arms around Sean¡¯s neck, afraid they would leave him behind.


    Bella, "¡­"


    "Please, Mom¡­ I promise I won¡¯t ask to meet Great-Grandfather today, but I want to play with Uncle..." Dax begged Bella with a twinkle in his eye.


    Bella was amused by her son¡¯s pitiful expression. This was a rare sight because her son never revealed his toddler side like he was doing now; he only behaved like this when Sean was around. However, she would not bring him.


    "I¡¯m sorry, but not today, Dax. You have to stay..." Bella said firmly. She couldn¡¯t bring Dax to the hospital because she didn¡¯t know whether her other family was there. Sean also couldn¡¯t stay longer; he had to return to his base.


    "Mom, please..." Dax begged again, his voice pitiful and his eyes teary. Watching all this, Bella slowly became confused. She looked at Sean as if she wanted to ask his opinion.


    "Bells, let him follow us," Sean said. He couldn¡¯t stand seeing Dax sad, but he also understood Bella¡¯s reason for not bringing Dax with her.


    "Sean, you have to return to your¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words as Sean stopped her.


    "After I drop you off at the hospital, I will drive him back here. You don¡¯t have to worry. Besides, I also want to play with Dax more..." He smiled to reassure her.


    Bella opened her mouth, but before she said something, Dax chimed in, "Thank you, Uncle Sean. You are the best uncle I ever have¡­" His smile widened as he looked into Sean¡¯s eyes.


    "Are you sure, man? I thought you favored Uncle Jack more?" Sean stared at Dax lovingly as he tried to lift his gloomy mood.


    Dax immediately shook his head, "No... No... Uncle Jack, my number two uncle. I promise... you are the number one." He grinned.


    "Hahaha, that¡¯s great to hear that little man..." Sean said, then gently ruffled his hair.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but chuckle when she saw the two most precious people in her life chatting. She finally gave in.


    "Alright, let¡¯s change your clothes first," Bella said, taking Dax from Sean. Before she entered Dax¡¯s bedroom, she looked at Sean with an apologetic gaze. "Thank you, Sean. Please wait for a while..."


    "Take your time. I will wait." Sean gently tapped Bella¡¯s shoulder. Then, with warmth in his heart, he returned to the living room.


    ¡­


    In the bedroom.


    Dax¡¯s expression slowly changed. He looked at his mother curiously.


    Bella was stunned, observing the change in her son¡¯s mood. However, she didn¡¯t have much time to ask, so she ignored it and quickly found his casual clothes in the wardrobe.


    After she got his sports pants and gray hoodie, she returned to him only to find his expression still the same.


    "Why do you look at your mommy like that? Baby, you¡¯re supposed to be thankful because I allowed you to follow us," she smiled while sitting on the edge of the bed.


    "Mommy¡ª" Dax paused.


    "Why? You want me to help you wear these clothes?" Bella teased him, knowing he would reject her help to put on his clothes.


    Dax immediately shook his head, "I will wear it myself, mommy."


    "Alright, hurry¡­ we don¡¯t have much time. Uncle Sean has to return to his work."


    Dax skillfully put on his clothes. It didn¡¯t take long for him to finish wearing his gray hoodie.


    He stared at his mother again, "Mom, please tell me... Uncle Sean is my father, right?"


    Bella was shocked. This is the first time Dax has asked her like this.

 Chapter 24: She Is Married?

    Bella took Dax¡¯s hand and let him sit beside her, staring into his blue eyes.


    "Why do you think Uncle Sean is your father?" Bella asked.


    Dax frowned. His eyes were slightly trembling as he stared back at his mother.


    "Because Uncle Sean knows about great-grandpa. Uncle is also nice to me, and I feel comfortable around him¡­" he said calmly, but Bella could see his sadness flash through his gaze.


    For some unknown reason, Bella felt hurt inside when she witnessed this.


    This had been her concern since giving birth to Dax ¡ª explained to him about his biological father. Until today, she never had a chance to do that because she was too worried about how to tell him and he also never asked. .


    But just now, Bella was utterly shocked to hear Dax suddenly ask about it. Of course, Dax¡¯s sudden question was enough to make all the words she wanted to tell him vanish from her mind.


    Sigh!


    Looking at his eyes still fixed on her, as if waiting for her to answer, gave Bella a little courage to talk about this matter.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Dax, but Uncle Sean is not your father," she said apologetically.


    Dax¡¯s face slowly turned gloomy as he heard the words he didn¡¯t want to hear ¡ª Sean was not his father. He feels disappointed even though he already knows the answer.


    Bella clenched her hands into fists when she saw the disappointment radiating from Dax¡¯s eyes.


    Slowly, she could feel her heartfelt hurt as if the wound in her heart was starting to tear again. She tried hard to hide it; she didn¡¯t want to make Dax worry.


    She immediately stood up. "Baby, let¡¯s go. We made Uncle Sean wait for too long."


    Dax¡¯s face turned panicked when he remembered about Sean. He nodded and followed Bella.


    "Let¡¯s go, Mommy..." His smile framed his face as he walked toward the door, holding Bella¡¯s hand.


    Bella saw Sean standing near the window with his back facing them. Before she could call him, Sean turned back.


    "Are you guys ready?" He said as he walked to them.


    "Sorry to make you wait. Hmm, yes... we can go now."


    "It¡¯s okay," Sean chuckled at Bella before gazing at Dax. "Little man, you look handsome. Come, let Uncle carry you¡­"


    Bella sighed slightly when she saw her son didn¡¯t refuse Sean to carry him. Instead, he looked so happy in Sean¡¯s arms.


    "Sean, he can walk by himself. There¡¯s no need to carry him," Bella said, narrowing her eyes at Dax.


    She feels amazed at Dax. This little man would only allow a few people to carry him, one of them being Sean. Even Jack and Harper never got to hold him.


    "It¡¯s fine¡­" Sean said while walking to the entrance.


    Bella could only shake her head as she looked at them out of the room. She talked to Noora first before she followed Sean and Dax, who were waiting for her in the elevator.


    ...


    Upon reaching the lobby, Sean requested Bella to wait for him while he talked to the hotel manager.


    Bella had no choice but to wait for them near the entrance. She took her time contacting his grandpa¡¯s butler.


    She texts Nick.


    [Bella: ] Nick, I¡¯m in East City. Can I visit Grandpa now?


    [Bella: ] I will arrive at the hospital in about thirty minutes.


    It didn¡¯t take long. She received a reply from Nick.


    [Nick: ] Thank God you finally arrived, young miss. Yes, you can come now.


    [Nick: ] Old master is excited to meet you.


    [Bella: ] Please don¡¯t tell anyone except Grandpa I¡¯m coming to visit.


    [Nick: ] No woorries, young Miss.


    After sending her text, Bella can¡¯t help but smile bitterly, remembering the time when her grandpa found out about her divorce from Tristan.


    If not for Sean hiding her location, her grandpa would have flown to Sweden and dragged her back to this country.


    Three years Bella has never contacted her grandpa or another family member. Still, Sean always updates her about them, especially her grandpa. She only started contacting her grandpa two years ago, and their relationship has begun to improve since then.


    However, last month, Nick called and informed her that her grandpa had been admitted to the hospital because of a stroke.


    Bella had no choice but to return to this city again to meet him.


    ¡¯Grandpa, I hope you stay healthy...¡¯ she prayed in her heart, her eyes fixed on the busy street before her.


    Slowly, memories of her youth started to fill her mind.


    This city reminds her of her youth; so many sweet memories happen here, but also sad ones.


    ¡¯East City, please be nice to me...¡¯ Bella faintly smiles while fixing her gaze on the clear blue sky. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Bells, this way¡­" Sean¡¯s voice snapped Bella from her thoughts.


    When she saw Sean still carrying Dax in his arms, she couldn¡¯t help but walk fast towards them.


    "You can ask him to walk. Stop pampering him, Sean," Bella said helplessly, looking at how Dax enjoyed Sean carrying him.


    "Uncle, Mom was right. Put me down, I can walk..." Dax was worried Uncle Sean would be exhausted.


    "It¡¯s okay, Little man. I know you are still exhausted from taking a long flight," Sean said while opening the car door and helping Dax sit in the back row.


    Bella, "..."


    Then Sean opens the car for Bella. She didn¡¯t utter anything but entered the vehicle immediately.


    Soon, the white Audi Q7 slowly left the Star Hotel.


    ****


    Meantime, in the black Mercedes SUV, not far from Sean¡¯s car.


    Dylan, who sat behind the wheel, gasped in shock. At this moment, not even his calm features could hide the shock on his face.


    He turned to the passenger seat beside him, "Max, why can¡¯t you conduct your investigation properly? Why did you never mention that Ms. Bella is already married?"


    Max was also shocked, just like Dylan; he didn¡¯t expect Ms. Bella to have a husband.


    "Ugh, man, as I told you, Ms. Bella¡¯s identity was top secret; I cannot find anything regarding her personal information."


    "Tsk! You are only making excuses... How could Ms. Bella, a commoner, have a top-secret status in this country?"


    Max didn¡¯t have time to speak to this stupid Dylan. He just turned his gaze toward the rearview mirror, looking at the back row. He was shocked to see how dark Tristan¡¯s expression was now.


    "Try to find that man¡¯s identity¡ª" Before Dylan could finish his words, he felt the temperature inside the car drop as if the heating system had suddenly broken.

 Chapter 25: Do We Need to Continue with DNA Testing?

    Max was shocked to see how dark Tristan¡¯s expression was now.


    "Try to find that man¡¯s identity¡ª" Before Dylan could finish his words, he felt the temperature inside the car drop as if the heating system had suddenly broken.


    Dylan¡¯s heart drops as he meets Tristan¡¯s cold gaze from the back row. He knows he can¡¯t escape punishment because he has informed Tristan of false information.


    His Boss must be angry, witnessing his ex-wife already having a new husband and the kids he thought his son was not his. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Damn!! I¡¯m in doom!!¡¯ Dylan could only curse himself inwardly while flashing an apologetic smile to Tristan before turning his gaze again at Max.


    He leans closer to Max and whispers, "Man, hurry up. Check the man¡¯s identity; we must know who he is..."


    Max nods. He immediately opens his laptop, and his finger dances fast across the keyboard ¡ª he hacks the CCTV around the Star Hotel.


    "That man has an army vibe. He could be an active-duty soldier," Dylan said while starting to make a plan to escape from the mess he had created for his Boss.


    Well, at least he would not get punished alone ¡ª he glanced at Max with a sly smile.


    "Yeah, I could see that, too. That man¡¯s vibe was so cool; even when he carried his son, he looked so handsome..." Max responded while his finger remained busy typing.


    Tristan¡¯s eyes remained fixed on the white car leaving the hotel as Dylan and Max chatted in low voices.


    Tristan didn¡¯t understand with himself; seeing Bella with another man made him jealous. Even though he knew he shouldn¡¯t be jealous.


    He tried to suppress his jealousy, but his forehead creased when he faintly heard Dylan and Max¡¯s conversation. He shot his gaze at them in return, then stopped at Max.


    "You don¡¯t have to check his background!"


    Dylan and Max were shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s words. They immediately turned to look at him.


    "Boss, are you serious?" Dylan asked. "You didn¡¯t want to find out who that guy is?"


    "Boss, trust me... It won¡¯t take long to get information about that man. This is an easy task." Max helped convince him.


    Tristan suppressed his anger upon hearing Max¡¯s words. He rubbed his eyebrows briefly before saying, "If you can¡¯t access Bella¡¯s private information, then you¡¯ll never know who he is," he said with his deadpan expression.


    Now, he understands why Max couldn¡¯t find any info about Bella five years ago. Only a few people he knew could do that, and one of them was Sean Spencer.


    Max frowned, confused by Tristan¡¯s answer. "Boss, you said this man has a secret identity like Ms. Bella?"


    Before Tristan had time to answer Max, Dylan chimed in, "Boss, do you know that person?" he was suspicious after looking at how calm his Boss was now.


    "Hmm, I know him," Tristan replied nonchalantly.


    Dylan and Max were shocked to hear that.


    "Who is that person, boss?"


    "Is he an important figure?" Dylan asked curiously.


    Tristan turned his gaze back to Dylan and Max; he silently took a deep breath before answering them. "He is Sean Spencer."


    Dylan and Max pondered for a while, trying to recall that name. They knew Spencer¡¯s name was important in their country, Astington.


    The Old Spencer was one of the founders of this country. Nowadays, a young generation of Spencers is active in the military, politics, and business.


    They are known as the noble family in this country, and their lives are very close to the public and media. Not many people know who the members of the Spencer family are.


    The figures they know are only a few; one of them was the president-elect, Jayson Spencer. He is the first son of retired general Edward Spencer.


    Is Sean Spencer a member of this family?


    "Which Spencer?" Max asked first.


    "Boss, Sean Spencer from that Spencer?" Dylan asked. If that man were true, the influential Spencer, then his Boss, would have trouble getting Ms. Bella back.


    Tristan turned his gaze away from them; he felt exhausted now. He said, "Yeah, he is!"


    "Damn it!" Dylan cursed in a low voice, but Tristan could hear it.


    Tristan said nothing, only closed his eyes while resting his head against the seat.


    "Ms. Bella, have good luck... After she divorced our Boss, she got another powerful figure." Max commented he was amazed by Bella¡¯s luck. Then, his eyes fixed on his laptop monitor screen; he saw Sean Spencer¡¯s picture, which he had managed to take from the hotel CCTV footage.


    "Boss, do I still need to do a DNA test on Ms. Bella¡¯s son?" Dylan asked.


    Tristan slowly opened his eyes again, staring at the car¡¯s ceiling. He said, "Continue. I want you to get the DNA test results quickly."


    Dylan was confused. "Boss, isn¡¯t that Sean Spencer¡¯s son? Why do you want to¡ª"


    "He is not..." Tristan sat up straighter and looked at Dylan. "They never got married. If they got married, they would definitely invite me. I¡¯m close to his father..."


    Dylan was shocked. Tristan knew only one Spencer well, and Dylan knew who that person was.


    "Boss, Sean Spencer¡¯s father? You mean, Mr. President..." Dylan asked.


    "Hmm..."


    Dylan silently gulped. Before he could say something, Max¡¯s voice stopped him.


    "Boss, I agree with you. That young boy is not Sean Spencer¡¯s son!!" Max said while looking at his laptop screen. Seeing how similar that child¡¯s face was to their Boss¡¯s younger picture was shocking.


    "Man, why are you that sure?" Dylan frowned, looking at Max.


    Max turned his laptop toward Dylan. "Well, I succeeded in getting that boy¡¯s picture. You can check it yourself."


    Curious, Dylan looked at Max¡¯s laptop. Seconds later, he gasped in shock. "Wow!! T-This... Boss Tristan¡¯s face when he was young," he said, shocked.


    Tristan glances at the laptop screen and is surprised by what he sees.


    Earlier, he could not see Bella¡¯s son¡¯s face clearly because the child was not looking in their direction. However, upon looking at the picture now, Tristan believes that the child is his.


    His lips curled up into a cold smile.


    "Max, send me the picture!"

 Chapter 26: Blamed By Family (1)

    Promise Hospital.


    After saying goodbye to Dax, Bella immediately steps out of the car. But before she could enter the hospital, Sean called her.


    "Bells, wait..."


    She halted her step and turned to see him. "Yes?"


    Sean stopped one step in front of Bella. When their eyes met, he smiled before saying, "I¡¯ll pick you up later. Go spend your time with your grandfather."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. "Pick me up? I thought you were going back to base?" She asked, confused.


    "I just got information from Basecamp that I don¡¯t have to rush back. So, I still have time to pick you up here."


    "Really?" The light in Bella¡¯s eyes was slightly beaming.


    "There¡¯s something I need to talk about with you, Bells..." he said in a relaxed manner, but inwardly, he felt like his heart was about to burst.


    Bella frowned, slightly curious to know what he wanted to talk to, but she didn¡¯t ask anything; she could only nod.


    "Call me when you¡¯re finished," Sean said while gently tapping her shoulder. "I will play with Dax; don¡¯t worry about him. And you don¡¯t have to be rushed."


    "Thank you, Sean," She said.


    "Alright, go inside. It is cold here." He urges her to enter the hospital. Bella nodded and continued to walk.


    ...


    After she asked for the information and directions toward her Grandpa¡¯s wardroom, Bella walked toward the elevator.


    When she saw the elevator was about to close. She ran.


    "Excuse me... Please wait," Bella shouted while running. She felt relieved that her sneakers allowed her to run this fast and barely enter the elevator.


    "Thank you," Bella said without looking at the man behind her. She stood at the front and, when she was about to press the floor number, it was already on. It looked like the man behind her was going to the same floor as her.


    She took out her cell phone to notify Nick that she had arrived. However, before she could send the text, she heard a cold voice from the man behind.


    "Tsk... Tsk... You only appeared when Grandpa was dying, hah!"


    Bella flinch. She knows so well that cold voice. She slowly lifted her head, looking at the mirror before her to see the person.


    A sour smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips when she saw a fat, chubby man with messy, dark brown hair staring at her with his sharp hazel eyes.


    Bella can¡¯t help but curse her luck. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could she encounter this person right after she came to this hospital?


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but turn to face him. "Oh, older brother... What a coincidence..." she said in a fake, surprised tone.


    She continued before the fat man could say anything, "Nice to meet you, bro. You look... bigger and healthier, you are so damn cute..." She giggles at her older brother, Henry Donovan.


    Henry¡¯s face turned red when he heard Bella¡¯s words, but he ignored it and asked curtly, "Why are you coming now? Are you here because you know that Grandfather will die soon? You come here to claim your inheritance?"


    Bella maintained her Monalisa-like smile even though she was fuming inwardly as if she wanted to gag his rude mouth with a slipper.


    How dare he wish their grandfather death!?


    If Bella had not remembered this hospital, she would have long gone to beat him up for his unmannerly remarks.


    "Oh, my dear older brother... Do you miss me this much? I miss you too, older brother." She answered with a moved expression, even though the look in her eyes said otherwise.


    "What the hell are you talking about? Who misses you?" Henry¡¯s emotions flared. He can¡¯t stand hearing this stupid woman¡¯s words.


    Bella laughed inwardly, making her older brother angry. Instantly, she felt in a good mood, seeing how red Henry¡¯s face was now as if all his blood was rushing under his skin.


    Her concerned expression flashed through her eyes as she said, in a weak, concerned tone, "Brother, please calm down, huh? You might die young if you can¡¯t control your anger."


    Henry almost vomited blood hearing her words.


    ¡¯This slut!! How dare she!!¡¯ He clenched his fist, holding back his anger. He opened his mouth and wanted to scold her, but he was speechless when the elevator door opened.


    Ding!


    Bella walked out without waiting for Henry to say a word. She walked towards her grandfather¡¯s room with light steps and a broad smile framing her beautiful face.


    Henry snapped from his trance when the elevator door was about to close.


    "Ya!!" Henry yells in annoyance. "Arabella Donovan, you can¡¯t enter Grandpa¡¯s room, " he running fast to follow her.


    But Bella ignored him. She continued to walk faster. When she arrived at their Grandpa¡¯s room, she stopped before the door and looked in Henry¡¯s direction.


    She held back her laugh when she saw her fat brother running after her ¡ª His body looked heavy when he lifted his legs.


    Even though Henry¡¯s face radiated anger, seeing his comical running style, Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh in her heart.


    "Big bro, you better start exercising. Only run that short; you¡¯re already exhausted," Bella said softly, but Henry heard it like a slap in his face.


    Henry became more annoyed.


    "Arabella!! Y-You¡ª" He can¡¯t finish his words as he sees his stupid little sister wave at him and casually enter the room.


    ¡¯Fuck you, Arabella!! You wait, I will call Mom and Dad!!" Henry could only vent his anger in his mind while taking out his cell phone from his long-suit pocket.


    Without hesitation, he dial his mother¡¯s phone number.


    "Henry, why do you call? Did you say you would visit your Grandpa now?" A soft, gentle female voice rang on the other end.


    Henry¡¯s face still looked annoyed. He answered, "Mom, you won¡¯t believe who I met here."


    "Who?" The woman¡¯s tone sounded curious.


    "That little slut¡ª" Henry ran his fingers through his hair while taking a deep breath. "Yes, yes... that slut, Bella... she showed up at the hospital. She¡¯s in Grandpa¡¯s room now. Okay, okay.


    I¡¯ll try to hold her here... Hurry up, call dad too..."


    After hanging up the phone, Henry¡¯s annoyed face slowly changed. A mischievous smile emerged from the corner of his lips.


    "You¡¯re dead, Bella!! Mom and Dad will come." He talked to no one as he walked towards the room.

 Chapter 27: Blamed By Family (2)

    Bella can¡¯t help but smile widely, looking at Henry¡¯s annoyed expression.


    Flashing him with another broad smile, Bella walked into the ward room without waiting for his response. However, her smile instantly vanishes when she meets a few pairs of eyes staring at her.


    ¡¯Oh, crap!! Why are they all here? Did they know I will come today?¡¯ Bella asks herself while looking at her grandpa Butler, Nick, as if trying to ask him, "What¡¯s going on? Why are they gathering here?"


    When Bella saw Nick¡¯s innocent expression, she could only give him a slight nod before calmly entering the room and heading toward the seating area.


    Bella feels like her luck was running thin today. She deliberately visited her grandfather during working hours. Still, all the uncles and aunts who managed the Donovan Company were now gathered in this room.


    ¡¯Did something happen to grandfather?¡¯ Bella wondered while quickly glancing at the patient¡¯s bed at the end of the room.


    Bella couldn¡¯t see his grandfather¡¯s face clearly but knew her grandpa was okay. She feels slightly relieved.


    She politely smiled at all her uncles and aunties in the room, still looking at her sharply. They all had similar expressions ¡ª shock and disbelief to see her appear in the room as if she had just returned from the dead.


    "Uncle, Aunty, it¡¯s nice to meet you all here." Bella greeted them politely and flashed her sweet smile.


    However, no matter how much she smiled, it never quite reached her eyes, and the welcoming emotion she put on her face never sincerely came from her heart. She really hated them for what they did to her.


    Now, she could only endure it. This is not the right time to do anything. She didn¡¯t give them a chance to humiliate her again; she turned her gaze to Nick.


    "How¡¯s Grandpa?" She asked.


    "His condition is not stable, but now he¡¯s sleeping," Nick replied calmly. "Young Miss, come, greet your grandpa. He will be happy to know you finally arrive."


    "What the hell are you doing, Nick!? Why did you let this damn kid enter this room?" The middle-aged man with a thick mustache stood up from his chair. His sharp eyes looked at Nick, then turned to Bella.


    The man didn¡¯t rush to continue to speak, but he scanned Bella from head to toe as if he wanted to eat her alive. Bella silently swallowed, looking at the man she once respected but not anymore.


    "You, do you have no shame? Why do you still dare to appear before us after what you did?" The man continued in a disgusted tone. "Get out of this room before I drag you out!" he roars.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She only stared at her first uncle ¡ª her grandfather¡¯s oldest child. He runs the company as the CEO; his name is Jacob Donovan.


    She feels puzzled; why did he blame her!?


    The room fell silent again. No one said a word.


    However, shortly after, a woman with short black hair stood beside Jacob Donovan.


    "Brother Jacob, keep your emotions in check. Don¡¯t let your blood pressure rise because Bella..." The woman said softly. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Emma, stop defend her!! You know... this good-for-nothing girl doesn¡¯t deserve to appear here. She is a useless woman. How dare she accept the divorce without telling us anything!?" Jacob snapped.


    Jacob can¡¯t hold his anger when he remembers a few years ago, because of Bella and Tristan¡¯s sudden divorce, their business was on the verge of bankruptcy. Even now, their company has not recovered.


    "I know, brother. But you can¡¯t be angry with me either...right!?" Emma said weakly. Before Jacob could continue his anger, Emma said, "And what¡¯s the point of scolding Bella now!? That¡¯s all in the past. They¡¯re divorced. Sinclair has ended their relationship with our company.


    We can¡¯t turn back time¡ª"


    Bella was stunned. This was the first time she had heard about it. Now, she understands why her first uncle blames her. It looks like her divorce from Tristan caused the family company to suffer.


    "Stop it, Emma!! I didn¡¯t want to hear that." Jacob continues venting his anger while Emma tries to calm him down.


    Bella feels sorry for her second aunt but can¡¯t do anything, even though she wants to help her. Her first uncle would be even more fuming if she said something now. She doesn¡¯t want to be blamed again if her uncle suddenly dies of a heart attack. She decides only to listen.


    "Jacob, your blood pressure... Please stop." Another woman in the room tries to calm Jacob ¡ª she is Jacob¡¯s wife.


    But the stubborn Jacobs is still angry at Bella. He blamed her because the Donovan Group suffered so much loss after Sinclair Corps no longer continued their collaboration ¡ª with their primary business, a Construction company ¡ª in various projects in this city.


    Bella remained silent. When her uncle and aunt argued, she took the opportunity to move near Nick.


    When Nick¡¯s eyes flashed with guilt for putting Bella in a situation like this, Bella answered with a faint smile and whispered, "Nick, don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m stronger than before."


    "Glad to hear that, miss..." Nick replies in a hushed tone.


    "But, Nick. Why didn¡¯t you ever tell me about the company? Are they good now!?" She asked again.


    Before Nick could answer Bella, another loud voice echoed in the room.


    "Brother Jacob," the younger uncle finally chimed in, staring at Jacob with concern. "You have to listen to what Sister Emma and Sister-in-law say. If you are still venting your anger, you might be rushed to the emergency room!"


    Jacob narrowed his eyes, looking at his younger brother, Thomas. "You seem to be going soft on her now, Thomas? Did this good-for-nothing girl send you some money she got from Sinclair!?"


    "Hahaha, I wish she would send half of her money to me, but unfortunately, she is not..." Thomas laughs, then slowly turns his gaze to Bella.


    Thomas¡¯s laugh vanished instantly, and his calm expression turned sharp. "Why did you come here!? Have you run out of money, and then you come back here again to beg for money?"


    Bella listened to their verbal abuse with a calm, indifferent expression. Still, now she felt she needed to answer them.


    However, a loud ¡¯bang¡¯ sound was heard when Bella wanted to say something.


    All eyes now looked towards the entrance.

 Chapter 28: Blamed By Family (3)

    Bella listened to their verbal abuse with a calm, indifferent expression. Still, now she felt she needed to answer them.


    However, a loud ¡¯bang¡¯ sound was heard when Bella wanted to say something.


    All eyes now looked towards the entrance. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella saw her brother Henry¡¯s smug smile spread across his face, but her heart sank when she saw two familiar figures appear behind Henry.


    ¡¯Seriously!? Why did they suddenly appear here?¡¯ Bella was speechless beyond words. She tried to calm down but failed when she saw her father¡¯s sharp gaze fixed on her.


    Nick, who stood beside Bella, drew closer and whispered, "Young Miss, I didn¡¯t inform them about your arrival." He felt even more guilty because the entire Donovan family was here, even though they rarely appeared together like they do now.


    "I know, Nick¡­ I know¡­" Bella answered weakly. Her eyes now turned to her older brother, Henry, smiling widely at her. She immediately knew who had told her parents. It must be him. She can¡¯t help but vent her sarcasm inside her head.


    "Lucas, you came at the right time," said Jacob Donovan as he walked towards Lucas. "Look, your good-for-nothing daughter is finally back¡­ She came at the right time, knowing that her grandpa was in a bad condition."


    Lucas stopped before his older brother, but his gaze never left his only daughter, Bella.


    "You need to teach her to behave like Donovan¡¯s! How dare she tarnish our family reputation?" Jacob Donovan continued to express his annoyance to Bella.


    A satisfied smile spread across his lips as Jacob watched Lucas¡¯ face slowly turn dark. He said nothing but stared at his brother, scolding her daughter.


    "You," Lucas pointed at Bella. "Come here!!" His deep voice seemed to carry an anger that made the room instantly silent, making Bella uncomfortable.


    Bella approaches her father calmly, even though her heart races.


    "Father, I¡¯m¨C"


    Plak!!


    The room resounded with the sharp crack of a forceful slap, causing Bella to stagger backward. Her head tilted in response to the impact, and a shockwave of pain rippled through her.


    Desperate to regain her composure, she tried to stand up straight while holding her face in disbelief.


    A stinging sensation was like a hot iron pressed against Bella¡¯s cheek, radiating pain. Her trembling hand gently rubbed her slapped cheek to divert the throbbing pain. However, as the taste of blood stained her lips, another pain slowly crept from her heart.


    Unable to speak, she feels her tongue turn stiff, weighed down by a mix of anger and disbelief. This harsh reality hurt so much¡ªshe had never imagined her father could deliver such a mighty slap. It broke her heart.


    Struggling to contain her burning anger, Bella raised her head, meeting her father¡¯s angry gaze. Their silence spoke volumes as they stared at each other.


    Not only does Bella feel shocked by that slap, but everyone in the room can¡¯t believe Lucas would hit his own daughter that hard without giving her time to finish her words.


    Henry Donovan, who was standing in the corner, laughed secretly. ¡¯You deserve it, Bella; you are really too much,¡¯ he said to himself while looking at Bella¡¯s face, which looked like she was holding back tears and fear. ¡¯You stupid little bitch!¡¯


    ...


    After some time passed, Lucas finally broke the thick silence.


    "Shameless woman!! You don¡¯t know any manners?" Lucas said in an angry tone while pointing his finger at Bella. His eyes were red as if a flash of fire were burning there. "How dare you run away after destroying our family?"


    "L-Lucas, p-please stop¡­" a woman with short gray hair in a blue sky knee-length dress holding Lucas¡¯s hands in fear. "Don¡¯t scold her here¡ª" she said while looking at her husband.


    A vein appears on Lucas¡¯ forehead as he looks at his wife¡¯s teary eyes.


    He brushed her hand away before saying, "Natalie, you only have two children, but you can¡¯t even handle your useless daughter. What did you do while raising her? Why did she become so stupid and stubborn like now?"


    Natalie clenched her fists tightly, holding back the fear and tears about to come out of her eyes. She couldn¡¯t say anything but lowered her head to avoid Lucas¡¯s gaze.


    Bella was rendered speechless to hear her father¡¯s verbal abuse of her and her mother.


    This is not the first time Bella has witnessed it, but she is used to this scene; she grew up with this domineering and arrogant father.


    Even though Bella felt sorry for her mother, she also felt annoyed with her. Her mother was always more fond of her older brother Henry than her, and when their father abused them, her mother always chose silence.


    Gosh!


    How pathetic!!


    "Lucas, stop making a scene here. We are in Father¡¯s treatment room..." Emma said. She can¡¯t stand watching her brother abuse his family.


    However, Lucas didn¡¯t bother with Emma¡¯s warning. He narrowed his eyes, fixed on Bella.


    "Why are you looking at me like that? You still don¡¯t know what you did wrong?" Lucas raised his voice again. "You want me to make you remember with another slap?"


    Bella clenched her fists tightly, too angry to face her pathetic and broken family.


    She didn¡¯t rush to answer her father, but she looked at everyone there, one by one, starting from her two uncles, her aunt, her mother, and Henry, without expression. However, her eyes radiated something that stunned everyone who saw her.


    When Bella¡¯s gaze fell on her father, standing a few steps before her, she said calmly, "Why do you blame me for your own failure? Your company almost went bankrupt because you guys couldn¡¯t run it well¡ª"


    Lucas Donovan was taken aback by the transformation in his daughter¡¯s expression. Earlier, she looked scared and sad, but now, her expression slowly turned icy cold, with a fearless aura starting to radiate from her eyes.


    The sadness that once radiated from her eyes had given way to a simmering anger. It was the first time Lucas had witnessed this side of her, leaving him both surprised and uneasy.

 Chapter 29: Blamed By Family (4)

    It was the first time Lucas had witnessed this side of his daughter, leaving him both surprised and uneasy.


    "What are you trying to¡ª" Jacob Donovan shouted, but Bella raised her hand to stop him.


    Bella was amused to see how red Jacob¡¯s face was.


    "Uncle, oops... I forgot!" She lightly slapped her forehead, pretending to forget something.


    Jacob frowned.


    Everyone now looks at Bella; they are amazed by her sudden change in expression.


    "You know what?" Bella asked while flashing her confident smile. "Just now, I made a vow that I no longer have an uncle like you."


    "You!!" Jacob¡¯s faces turn red.


    "Oh, please, Sir, DO NOT interrupt me..." Bella shook her head before continuing, "You are the company¡¯s CEO, but why do you let the fate of such a big company depend on a little girl like me?"


    Bella paused her words, trying to enjoy Jacob Donovan¡¯s angry expression. "Don¡¯t you have any shame, sir?" she continued. She felt happy to return his words.


    When Bella saw her uncle open his mouth to say something, she spoke again, "If you can¡¯t run a company, you may step down from your CEO position and hire a professional to run it. Why force yourself to do something you know you can¡¯t?"


    Jacob¡¯s hands were clenched tightly into fists. He had never been treated like this by a mere child. Even his father had never treated him that way.


    Bella appeared calm, but she was cracking up internally. Watching her uncle¡¯s face turn like a boiled crab was so much fun.


    "Sir, if you fail, never blame someone else. And I don¡¯t remember having a business with the Donovan Group, right? Or... Do I?" She smiles.


    Everyone in the room was shocked beyond words hearing how Bella had given Jacob Donovan her long-buried piece of mind.


    "Arabella, stop, or I will get mad at you!" Lucas Donovan can¡¯t stand to see his daughter ridicule his brother. He will get in trouble if Jacob is angry.


    Bella turned her gaze at her father. There was no expression on her delicate face, only a calm look around her eyes and brow.


    "Oh, Mister Lucas, it looks like you can¡¯t wait to receive my piece of mind, too?" Bella laughed slightly and rubbed her forehead, showing her confidence. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella didn¡¯t even flinch when several pairs of eyes stared at her intently ¡ª their gaze seemed to swallow her alive.


    Henry¡¯s jaw dropped to the floor when he heard Bella call their father using his name.


    ¡¯What the fuck! Is this girl tired of living? Now she¡¯s asking to be sent straight to her coffin?¡¯ He tries to read Bella¡¯s expression ¡ª trying to find out whether there¡¯s a fear in her gaze. But he feels confused when he only sees calmness there.


    Bella continued her words when she didn¡¯t get any response from her father, "I sacrificed by marrying into the Sinclair family. You have no right to say that I destroyed the company."


    Lucas¡¯s eyes deepen upon hearing her words, but he says nothing. Only shocked and confused feelings now fill his mind as he sees how brave his daughter is.


    "Mister Lucas, four years... I married the Sinclair family for four years. You and your brother had enough time and should be smart enough to bring The Donovan Group to the peak. But what are you guys doing? After four years, the company almost went bankrupt. And now you put the blame on me?


    Did you know how silly that sounds?"


    Bella deliberately stopped her words momentarily to look at everyone in the room one by one. When Bella met her mother¡¯s teary gaze, she clenched her fist. In a hurry, she looked at her father again.


    "You guys, you should be thanking me, not the other way around," she said with a deep sigh, flashing her half-smile at her father.


    "Mister Lucas, I must tell you something difficult to say. Today, I have decided to cut off our relationship. As a result, you have lost your daughter. From now on, I won¡¯t be a part of your life anymore."


    Despite trying to maintain a calm demeanor, Bella¡¯s voice trembled with emotion, revealing the pain and difficulty of her decision.


    "B-Bella... Oh my God! What are you trying to say!?" Natalie asked as she walked towards her daughter. He held Bella¡¯s cold hand. "Quick... apologize to your father."


    Bella, "..."


    It wasn¡¯t just Natalie who was surprised by Bella¡¯s words. Emma was also surprised. She rushed over to Bella and tried to stop her from saying stupid words that would make Lucas even angrier.


    "Bella, you can¡¯t say those words lightly, darling. And you don¡¯t need to say anything. We never blamed you..." Emma said in a soft voice while holding Bella¡¯s shoulder. "Your first uncle and father were only angry because you didn¡¯t return home after the divorce. They just felt sad for you."


    Bella, "..."


    "Auntie, do you think I¡¯m that stupid not to be able to tell the difference?" Bella wanted to say that but was too emotionally exhausted to talk to her.


    Bella could only smile at her Aunty Emma and mother without saying anything. Her gaze slowly returned to her father, who was still staring at her sharply.


    Hearing Bella¡¯s last words, Lucas felt like he had been struck by lightning.


    Countless worries now fill his mind. How could she say those words casually? Does she really want to break their family tie?? No, this girl must be bluffing, right?


    Lucas shook his head slightly. As her father, he knew how soft Bella¡¯s heart was. She would never do that.


    The fear that had settled in his mind slowly disappeared. Lucas laughed cynically, breaking the silence in the room. Everyone looked at him, including Bella; she narrowed her eyes at her father.


    "Hahaha, you think you can break off our relationship? You are Donovan by blood, and blood is thicker than water!! Whatever you say, our family name will always be attached to your name. Stop acting like a little child, come here, let me teach you¡ª"


    "E-N-O-U-G-H!! A deep, hoarse voice rang from the corner.


    Everyone in the room was shocked to hear that familiar voice. They looked that way; Isaac Donovan sat on his bed, his gaze fixed on them.


    "F-Father... You are awake!?" Jacob said in shock.

 Chapter 30: Talk With Grandpa (1)

    Everyone in the room was shocked to hear that familiar voice. They looked that way; Isaac Donovan sat on his bed, his gaze fixed on them.


    "F-Father... You are awake!?" Jacob said in shock.


    "O-Old Master¡ª" Nick whispered.


    "Heaven!! Father..." Emma rushes to Old Donovan. It¡¯s hard for her to believe her father looks so healthy, like he just woke up from his sleep. "T-This is a miracle. Truly a miracle. Oh.


    Father, I¡¯m so happy you are finally awake, " she cries, holding and kissing his hand.


    Isaac Donovan gently smiled at Emma, then turned his gaze to a specific direction.


    Jacob and the others also walk by the bed¡ªonly Bella and Nick who stood behind.


    Bella watched from the corner when all of them surrounded her Grandpa. She did not want to be scolded by them, and she also didn¡¯t want to ruin the happy moment when her Grandpa finally awoke.


    Not long after, Bella was shocked to hear her Grandfather ask everyone to leave the room. When she was about to leave, Nick stopped her.


    "Not you. You stay here, young miss..." Nick whisper. Even though she was confused, she returned to her spot and followed Nick¡¯s advice.


    ...


    "Father, why did you ask us out?" Jacob Donovan protested.


    "Yes, Dad. You¡¯ve just woken up from a coma. We want to spend time with you," Lucas said.


    "Brother, let¡¯s ask the doctor to check Dad¡¯s condition. I¡¯m afraid Dad still feels uncomfortable. That¡¯s why he asked us to get out," Thomas Donovan said worriedly.


    "I¡¯m fine and healthy. There¡¯s no need to call the doctor," Old Donovan said while looking at his three sons one by one. His gaze radiated annoyance and disappointment, surprising Jacob and the others.


    "But father, what Thomas said was¡ª" Jacob could not continue his sentence when he saw his father raise his hand to stop him speaking.


    "Jacob, Lucas, and you, Thomas... I¡¯m really disappointed with each and every one of you. I¡¯m not dead yet, but none of you obeyed my clear orders." Old Donovan said in a low, trembling voice. His disappointment was apparent in his tone.


    The three brothers were perplexed by their father¡¯s words. They exchanged confused looks and gazed back at their father, unable to grasp what had upset him.


    "You want to know why I¡¯m disappointed with you all!?" Old Donovan asked.


    The three of them nodded, looking confused.


    "I told you not to blame Bella. Why do you keep blaming her? Why do you burden her with something so unreasonable?" Old Donovan asked. His eyes flashed with profound disappointment.


    After several seconds of looking at them with deep disappointment, Old Donovan¡¯s gaze slowly turned to Lucas. "You! I can¡¯t believe you could hit your own flesh and blood like that. You¡¯re just like an animal. I¡¯m very disappointed in you, Lucas Donovan. Very disappointed!"


    Lucas was surprised. He didn¡¯t expect his father to find out he hit Bella.


    ¡¯Is he really in a coma?¡¯ Lucas was confused. Their father was supposed to be in a coma and wouldn¡¯t know what he had done earlier. Now Lucas suspected that his father had been awake all this time but had deliberately remained asleep.


    Lucas was about to speak, but Old Donovan interrupted him before he could.


    "And if Bella wants to break ties with you, she can still use Donovan after her name because that is my name, and keep in mind that I, and I alone, have the right to decide who would bear it, by my blood or by my will." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella feels warm inside her heart when he hears her Grandpa¡¯s words. She smiles silently while lowering her gaze to her feet. She tries to hide her teary eyes.


    Lucas felt disappointed and annoyed when he heard his father¡¯s words, clenching his fingers tightly. Still, he couldn¡¯t say anything to deny it.


    "Get out!" Old Donovan yelled in a trembling voice, surprising them all. When he saw everyone starting to walk out, he continued, "Except Bella and Nick, you both stay."


    Lucas and the others frowned. They couldn¡¯t say anything but glanced at Bella suspiciously.


    After the door closed, Bella finally stepped towards the bed. A warm and broad smile framed her beautiful face as she greeted her Grandpa. Old Donovan smiled at her; he opened his arms to embrace her.


    They embraced warmly to release their longing.


    Especially Bella was worried that her Grandfather might die because she was disappointed in her. That¡¯s why she immediately came back when she found out that he was in a coma.


    "Grandpa, you are really awesome handling them," Bella said while sitting on the chair beside the bed. "Look the way you speak to them... I forgot that you were sick, Grandpa. You look healthy as before."


    When she saw her Grandpa smile meaningfully at Nick, Bella suddenly snapped in surprise.


    "No way! Are you not sick? So¡­ Y-You¡¯re pretending to be sick all along?" Bella asked curiously.


    Old Donovan¡¯s smile widened as he took Bella¡¯s hand and tapped it gently. "This is the only way to make you return, Bella. If I didn¡¯t pretend to be in a coma, I¡¯d bet you would stay in the cold country for another year, right!?"


    Bella was rendered speechless. She didn¡¯t expect her Grandpa to trick her like this. Then, she turned to see Nick at the corner, but Nick tried to avoid her gaze. He excuses himself to clean the sitting area.


    She could only shake her head while chuckling, looking at her Grandpa again.


    "You have a talent for acting, Grandpa. You really fool me and everyone."


    "Bwahaha, I know. Well, I get help, you know. Thanks to my doctor and his team. Their help was beneficial to convince everyone," Old Donovan said proudly. But later, his laugh faded when something crossed his mind.


    Old Donovan looked her in the eyes with mixed emotions.


    Before long, he said, "Bella, I¡¯m sorry. My useless children were rude to you. They don¡¯t deserve to be called uncles and fathers. Grandpa agrees if you want to sever a tie with them."

 Chapter 31: Talk With Grandpa (2)

    Before long, Old Donovan said, "Bella, I¡¯m sorry. My useless children were rude to you. They don¡¯t deserve to be called uncles and fathers. Grandpa agrees if you want to sever a tie with them."


    Bella¡¯s face stiffens slowly as she remembers what happened earlier. But she dismisses her anger, not wanting her Grandfather to be sad.


    "It¡¯s okay, Grandpa. What they did earlier was nothing compared to the treatment I¡¯ve got at the Sinclair family¡¯s house¡ª" Bella almost choked when she said those names.


    After a long moment, Old Donovan said, "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. If it weren¡¯t for my stupid promise to Old Sinclair, you wouldn¡¯t have married Tristan and endured the suffering when living with him..."


    Bella¡¯s heart ached to see her Grandfather¡¯s face filled with regret. Even though he lowered his gaze, avoiding Bella from looking into his eyes, she could see her Grandfather¡¯s eyes filled with tears.


    "Grandpa, that¡¯s all in the past now. We don¡¯t need to remember it anymore. I survive. I¡¯m much better now..." She smiled as sincerely as she could to reassure him.


    Old Donovan smiled weakly before lifting his head to meet Bella¡¯s gaze. When he saw her smile widely, he knew that behind her smile, this girl hid sadness.


    They were silent for a moment, just looking at each other.


    After some time, Old Donovan finally broke the silence. He said, "Bella, I know what happened to you a few months later. Old Spencer told me everything, including how my son made a deal with them¡ª"


    Old Donovan feels ashamed when he knows Jacob and Lucas make that absurd business deal with Tristan¡¯s parents.


    "Wait, Grandpa, you never knew about it?" Bella was surprised to hear that.


    "Yes. My goal was only to marry you to Tristan Sinclair because of my promise to Old Sinclair, my best friend. But I never asked them to help our company." he took a deep breath, feeling disappointed in all his sons.


    Bella bitterly laughed in her heart. Her worries were answered; her grandfather never made a business deal like that. She feels relieved.


    But something stuck in her heart, "Grandpa, do you know why they never announced my marriage to Tristan?"


    "Of course I know," Old Donovan answered quickly. Still, moments later, a frown appeared on his forehead as if he was confused about something. "Bella, my dear, why do you ask? I was told that you were the one who asked them not to announce and publicize your marriage to Tristan Sinclair!?"


    Bella was stunned. She never asks them to do that. "G-Grandpa, who told you that?"


    "Your father," Old Donovan answers. "Did you really ask them that? Or did your father lie to me?"


    Bella suspects it¡¯s her father. And after getting confirmation from her grandfather, she can not help but smile bitterly. "No, I never asked them to do that," she said.


    Old Donovan straightened his back, feeling as if all the blood in his body was about to rush straight to his face. He was shocked to hear that. His voice sounded furious as he said, "How dare Lucas decide that for you?! And in doing that, HE HAD LIED TO ME!!"


    "Old Master, calm down..." Nick suddenly stood beside Old Donovan. He handed him a glass of warm water. "Please drink this first, master. Stop challenging your blood pressure, or this time, for real, you might end up in the emergency room!" he said worriedly.


    Bella also worried when she saw her Grandpa¡¯s face turn red. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, you may not believe this, but I¡¯m actually relieved that my marriage was never published. It would have caused a lot of trouble if people discovered that I was once Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife. The media would have followed me everywhere, and my face would have been all over the news and the internet," she said sincerely.


    Old Donovan could only respond to her with a slight chuckle.


    After finishing his warm water, he looked at Bella again. "Bella, whatever it is, I must apologize to you. Please accept this old fool¡¯s apology, my dear granddaughter¡­ please." His eyes and tone showed he was sincere in asking for Bella¡¯s forgiveness.


    "Hmm, you will always have my forgiveness, Grandpa." Bella smiled at him before continuing her words. "But, please, Grandpa, can we stop talking about this? I¡¯m good now, so there is no need to worry about me too much," she tried to convince him once more.


    "Alright, alright. If you wish to put that aside, let¡¯s do so. Now, tell me about yourself, my dear. You look healthy and more beautiful now after rest in Sweden..." He asked curiously.


    When he learned that his granddaughter had moved to Sweden, he was shocked because they had no relatives there. But he stopped worrying when she told him she was doing fine.


    Now, he really wanted to hear everything she did in the foreign country. Even though they had communicated several times, Bella had never explained in detail what she was doing there, which made him curious.


    "Grandpa, I took care of my friend¡¯s business there." Bella wasn¡¯t entirely honest with him. She couldn¡¯t disclose to her Grandpa that she was one of the company¡¯s shareholders.


    Old Donovan suddently frowned, "So, you will not settle in this country?"


    Bella smiles at her Grandpa before telling him about her plan to move to the capital. She will take care of the company branch.


    However, Bella has not yet told him about her son. She didn¡¯t have a chance because her Grandpa sounded interested in her company.


    "That¡¯s great to hear that, my dear. How many days will you stay here?"


    "A week," Bella hurriedly explained when she saw his expression turn sad. "I promise I will visit you more often, Grandpa."


    "Yes. You should. Because, from now on, I will follow Old Sinclair..." Old Donovan sighed deeply before continuing, "I¡¯ll move to the countryside and live there. I can¡¯t stand to stay in this city anymore. Your uncle is causing me too much stress."


    Bella was surprised to hear Old Sinclair no longer stayed in the capital but in East City; he even lived in the countryside. This is hard for her to believe.

 Chapter 32: Chase Her Back! (1)

    ¡¯Why did he do that?¡¯ Bella feels curious.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m happy to hear that. The countryside is better for you to retire..." Bella paused for a half-smile before continuing. "But, Grandpa, why did Old Sinclair move there?"


    "Ah, it seems you don¡¯t know!?"


    Bella nodded.


    "After you divorced, Old Sinclair was furious. He scolded them to let you go just like that without even telling him anything. And because of that, he decided to return to his hometown, and he didn¡¯t even want to meet his son and Tristan..."


    Hearing this news, Bella was utterly shocked. At that moment, she didn¡¯t know whether to feel happy or sad. She was glad that Old Sinclair was on her side, but she was also sad to know he had to live alone in the village, far from his family.


    "Grandpa, I feel sorry for him¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t know how to continue her sentence. She could only take a slow breath while turning her gaze outside, trying to hide her teary eyes. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ****


    While at Lake View Village.


    Tristan arrives at the enormous white Victorian Era-style villa. When he parks his car, a thin man with glasses politely greets him.


    "Alan, where is Grandpa? I need to see him," he said to his grandfather¡¯s butler.


    "I¡¯m sorry, young master, but the old master still refuses to see you."


    "Oh, come on... it¡¯s been four years. How often do I have to ask for his forgiveness before he forgives me?"


    Alan didn¡¯t say anything. He just lowered his gaze. He feels sorry for him.


    Tristan pinched his eyebrows in thought. Moments later, a faint smile appeared on the edge of his lips; he looked at Alan again.


    "Alright. If Grandpa still refuses to see me¡­then¡­.tell Grandpa... she¡¯s back!"


    Suddenly, the door opened.


    A man in his late seventies appeared behind it. He was standing tall, looking out at the windows.


    "Who¡¯s that? Announce yourself, or I¡¯ll call security." His voice was deep and firm, sounding like a leader.


    Tristan smiled secretly as he saw his grandfather. It had been four years since their last meeting, but he looked as healthy as he saw him the last time. The only difference was there were fewer wrinkles then. He stood with his back straight and seemed to be in good fitness.


    "Grandpa, your daughter-in-law," in a low and soft voice.


    "Don¡¯t try to trick me, brat!" warned Lewis Sinclair, who now turns to look at Tristan with his sharp blue eyes. However, Tristan grinned even more. He knew his plan to meet and chat with his grandfather had succeeded ¡ª tell him some information about Bella.


    Tristan was amazed by his grandfather. Because he was only interested in talking about Bella or with Bella standing next to him. Any other subject wouldn¡¯t interest him if Bella wasn¡¯t there.


    His Grandpa was even angry with them and decided to move to this remote area and close the door to him and his parents. He would refuse to meet them even if they came and begged to see him.


    At first, Tristan had thought that, with time, his grandfather would forget about the incident. However, it turned out he was mistaken. Even now, his grandfather¡¯s attitude towards the matter remains the same. He stands up for Bella and blames Tristan for divorcing her without first consulting him.


    "Grandpa, forgive me if I hurt your feelings when I let Bella go, but I learned from my mistake. I will never do that again. Please trust me." Tristan didn¡¯t give his Grandpa a chance to say anything back. He walked closer to him and gestured for him to enter the house. "Let¡¯s talk inside about Bella... It¡¯s cold here, not good for your health."


    Alan nodded at Tristan¡¯s words, "Old Master, what Young Master Tristan said is correct. It¡¯s better to continue your conversation inside," he said worriedly.


    Tristan gave Alan a thumbs-up as he followed his grandfather inside.


    ...


    Tristan and his Grandpa sat facing each other without saying anything. However, Tristan was busy gazing at the frozen scenery outside.


    "If you come here only to enjoy the scenery, you might go now," Lewis Sinclair¡¯s words snapped Tristan out of his thoughts. He turns at his Grandpa and flashes his smile.


    Lewis doubts Tristan will tell the truth since he can¡¯t trace Bella¡¯s current address after the latter claimed she ran out of the country.


    When Lewis asked his best friend, Isaac Donovan, he also confirmed that Bella had indeed left the country, and by now, she had never contacted him either. This stressed him. If only he knew Bella¡¯s location, he would fly there and ask her to return to the Sinclair family.


    "Grandpa, I would not dare to lie to you. Well, she¡¯s actually landed today in this city."


    Lewis¡¯ eyes narrowed at Tristan.


    Tristan laughed heartily at his grandfather, who refused to believe him.


    "Grandpa, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can call Old Donovan. If I¡¯m not mistaken, Bella is meeting her grandfather now," Tristan said. He found out Bella¡¯s car visited Promise Hospital after he asked Max to tail them via public CCTV footage on the streets.


    Instantly, a smile appeared on Lewis Sinclair¡¯s face. This is what he wanted to hear.


    Lewis believed his grandson would not lie if related to Isaac Donovan. He immediately took out his cell phone to call Isaac. However, right before he dialed Isaac¡¯s number, his fingers stopped hearing Tristan¡¯s words.


    "Brat, why you stop me!?"


    "If I may suggest, Grandpa, it¡¯s better not to contact him now. If Bella finds out you know she is in hospital, she might run away again. And who knows where she would go next¡­" Tristan explained.


    "Hmmm¡­.You¡¯re right..." Lewis immediately put his cell phone on the table. He will wait till noon to contact Isaac.


    "Grandpa, why don¡¯t we return to the capital city?" Tristan was worried that his grandfather would live alone with Alan in this remote place.


    What concerned him was this Lake Village was far from the city. If something happened to him, it would take them some time to get here.


    But if his Grandpa still refused, he planned to build a helipad here for quick access.


    "I won¡¯t come back until you bring Bella back to our family," said Lewis Sinclair in his clear and deep voice, enough to make Tristan¡¯s face stiffen.

 Chapter 33: Chase Her Back! (2)

    "I won¡¯t come back until you bring Bella back to our family," said Lewis Sinclair in his clear and deep voice, enough to make Tristan¡¯s face stiffen.


    Tristan takes another deep, anxious breath. He had heard these words from his grandpa countless times before, and after five years, he never changed. He still demanded Bella become part of their family again.


    But how¡¯s that possible?


    Sadly, even though he was eager to chase her back, to win her heart and mind again, she now had another partner, Sean Spencer. The formidable Sean Spencer.


    If the man she was with were not Sean, he would feel confident in his ability to win her back. However, with Sean in the picture, it would be impossible for him to win her back unless the little boy was his son ¡ª his only option to get Bella back is through the child, mainly if the child is his.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t wait to find out the child¡¯s DNA results, but before they could do the test, they needed a sample ¡ª he had already asked Dylan and Max to take care of it.


    But now, he has to handle his grandpa first. Tristan fixed his gaze on his Grandfather before responding, "Grandpa, even though I want her to return to our family, it¡¯s impossible right now. She is already with another man."


    Lewis seemed slightly disappointed. He knew it would be selfish of him to wish Bella wouldn¡¯t marry another man and return to their family. Nevertheless, before he dies, he wishes to see Bella bearing his name again.


    "Has she married that man yet?"


    "No, not yet," Tristan answered firmly. He knew for sure that Bella would never marry Sean.


    A smile flashes across Lewis¡¯s face before he gives Tristan peace of mind. "Brat, where¡¯s your confidence? Why are you afraid of competing with her boyfriend?"


    Tristan was speechless hearing his shameless Grandfather. How could he ruin Sean and Bella¡¯s relationship?


    When Lewis saw that Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, he continued, "Bella loves you deeply, but you¡¯re too blind to see it. And you¡¯re willing to divorce her just because your parents told you to! Why you didn¡¯t follow your heart and mind!?"


    Tristan, "..."


    "And seriously...why are you in such a rush to get her pregnant? She¡¯s still young; there¡¯s no need to rush." Lewis narrowed his eyes at him.


    Tristan tried to speak, but his grandpa interrupted him, leaving him unable to say anything. He could only listen to his grandpa¡¯s words, which felt like an arrow stabbing his chest. It hurt because what he said right now was all true.


    "If you apologize and pursue her sincerely, she will return to you. Trust me, she will fall for you once again. And don¡¯t worry or be intimidated by her current boyfriend, Brat. He will run away once he knows you are also pursuing her."


    Tristan, "..."


    ¡¯Oh, please, Grandpa. If only you knew who her boyfriend was... You will shocked.¡¯ Tristan could only talk to himself while pretending to agree with what he said.


    "No family can match our highly regarded reputation except the Spencer family if you compete with them. Who is the young man in Spencer?" he said while thinking, but he answered his own question a second later. "Ah... I remember his name, Sean. Ugh, well... you will be in trouble if Bella¡¯s boyfriend is him."


    Tristan received another jab from his grandpa. He took a deep breath silently.


    "It¡¯s impossible for Bella to know Sean, right? All right, Brat... Go chase my granddaughter-in-law back." Old Sinclair continued his words, his eyes beaming with happiness at the thought of Bella returning to their family.


    Tristan¡¯s expression turned sour upon hearing his Grandfather¡¯s words, which hit the nail in his heart ¡ª Bella¡¯s boyfriend was Sean Spencer.


    Lewis Sinclair frowned when he saw Tristan¡¯s face turn sour.


    "Brat, don¡¯t tell me. Bella¡¯s boyfriend is Sean Spencer?"


    "Hmm."


    Instantly, Lewis fell silent. His brows were furrowed as if he was thinking about something.


    After a while, a faint smile appeared on his face. He looked at Tristan, "Brat, you still have a chance..."


    Tristan looked at his grandpa curiously.


    ¡¯Did he know about Bella having a child, too?¡¯ But, he hurriedly dismissed that thought. His grandpa didn¡¯t even know that Bella had arrived in this country.


    "How so!?" Tristan asked.


    Lewis immediately told Tristan about his chances. Instantly, a big smile appeared on Tristan¡¯s face; he agreed with his grandpa.


    "Thank you, grandpa." Tristan raised his thumb to praise him.


    "Go! And bring Bella back. And... can¡¯t you do something about that woman named Kiels? Why is the media always making a fuss about you and her?"


    Tristan frowned, "I will take care of her. Don¡¯t worry about it, Grandpa..."


    "You have to! Because if Bella finds out about her, she will hate you..." Lewis said. He stood up from his seat and dismissed Tristan. Then, he returned to his library to call his best friend, Isaac Donovan.


    **** sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At Promise Hospital.


    "Grandpa, I feel sorry for him¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t know how to continue her sentence. She could only take a deep breath while turning her gaze outside, trying to hide her blurry eyes.


    Old Donovan could see the sadness in Bella¡¯s eyes. He feels concerned about her.


    "Bella, look at me," he asked. When Bella finally looked at him, he said. "You don¡¯t need to feel sorry for Lewis Sinclair. This all started because of a stupid vow we made as teenagers. And, because of our stupidity, we made you suffer. Lewis is already happy with his life at Lake Village."


    Bella tried to smile at her Grandfather¡¯s words, but somehow, she lost the ability to say anything.


    "If you want to cheer him up, you can visit him. I have my villa next to him. We will live side by side there..."


    Even though Bella hated Tristan and his parents, she never hated or blamed Grandpa Sinclair. Because when she was still married to Tristan, Grandpa Sinclair was the only one who was good to her.


    Bella¡¯s eyes suddenly shone brightly as she looked at her Grandfather; she nodded in response. She really wanted to meet Grandpa Sinclair.


    ¡¯This is the right time to tell her grandpa about her son," Bella thought while she looked at the door to ensure it was closed tightly so no one would overhear what she was about to say.


    "There¡¯s something I want to tell you, Grandpa."

 Chapter 34: Finally, She Could Tell Him About Dax

    ¡¯This is the right time to tell her grandpa about her son," Bella thought while she looked at the door to ensure it was closed tightly so no one would overhear what she was about to say.


    "There¡¯s something I want to tell you, Grandpa."


    "Yes, but let¡¯s move to the seating area. Sitting here for too long makes me feel like I¡¯m really a sick patient," Old Donovan chuckled.


    Bella agreed and followed her grandfather to the seating area. She was amazed to see him still walking straight despite being in his late seventies. He could pass for someone in their late sixties if it weren¡¯t for his wrinkled face and white hair.


    Donovan sat on the sofa, staring at Bella. "What do you want to tell me?"


    "I want to introduce someone to you, Grandpa," Bella said while flashing her warm smile, remembering her son Dax.


    However, just before Bella wanted to continue her sentence, she was stunned to see her grandfather¡¯s saddened expression.


    "Grandpa, why do you look¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her sentence when she saw him interrupt her.


    "You already have a new boyfriend?" He asked in concern.


    He wasn¡¯t against her having a new boyfriend but worried about her getting hurt again. And he couldn¡¯t bear the thought of Bella running away to another country.


    Bella almost choked hearing his question.


    "No. But, I have a son..." She hurriedly clarified.


    Old Donovan gasped in surprise. He sat up straighter with his eyes sharp, staring at Bella.


    "Heaven, you... You have a son!?" His eyes lit up with happiness, but suddenly, his expression turned stiff. "Who¡¯s your son¡¯s father? Why didn¡¯t you tell me you married again!?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella, "..."


    "Oh, my dear Bella... Hurry, tell Grandpa. Who is the lucky guy who marries you?" he asked enthusiastically.


    Bella, "..."


    When Old Donovan saw her not say anything, he continued, "Where¡¯s my great-grandson? Why didn¡¯t you bring him here?"


    Bella becomes anxious upon hearing how loud her Grandpa¡¯s voice is. She quickly gestures to him, urging him to lower his tone. She fears that her uncles and parents outside might overhear their conversation about her son, Dax.


    She is concerned that if they learn about Dax¡¯s situation, her shameless uncle might decide to enter into another business deal with the Sinclair Family again. Hell no!


    "Please lower your voice, Grandpa. Please," she begged. Old Donovan nodded immediately.


    "My son¡¯s name is Daxton Donovan," Bella paused when she saw him smiling happily ¡ª it looked like her Grandpa was pleased to hear she had given Dax his last name.


    "Dax is in the hotel with my nanny. Do you remember Aunty Noora? She used my nanny, and now she become Dax¡¯s Nanny." She continued when she saw him nod, "I didn¡¯t bring him here because I was afraid he witnessed what happened earlier. And I worry they will bring Dax to Sinclair to make another deal."


    Old Donovan nodded in agreement, "You¡¯re right. Your uncle and father are truly shameless. They might do that! Well, it¡¯s best not to bring my great-grandson here..." He said in concern and anger with his sons.


    "I know. That¡¯s why today I came alone to find the right time for you guys to meet. And, Grandpa, I think if you live in Lake Villa, that would be more suitable. Moreover, I also intend to introduce Dax to Grandpa Sinclair."


    "Perfect, my dear. I will ask Nick to process my discharge from the hospital. I will go straight to the Villa today," said Old Donovan enthusiastically. He looked around for Nick but didn¡¯t see him, "Where¡¯s Nick?"


    At the same time, the wardroom door opened, and Nick entered carrying several bags in his hand.


    "Nick, your Ninja skills are improving," Old Donovan smiled. I didn¡¯t even know you were leaving the room."


    Bella, "..."


    Nick, "..."


    "Old Master, I didn¡¯t want to disturb you chatting with Miss Bella, so I go out to buy your lunch. Sorry..." replied Nick as he placed several bags on the dining table.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right, Nick. We¡¯re hungry," Old Donovan said while looking at Nick, "And Nick, please take care of the hospital administration. I want to go out today. We¡¯ll go straight to Lake Villa."


    Nick was surprised to hear that. He looked at Old Donovan. "Old Master, so fast? Did you say you will be out tomorrow?" Nick asked.


    "I didn¡¯t have any reason to stay here. Bella has already come and will join us at the Villa tomorrow."


    Nick nods happily, "I will do, master." He brought something in his hand and walked closer to Bella. "Young Miss, here are ice cubes. You should compress your swollen face."


    Bella was stunned. She completely forgot about her face. Without saying a word, she received the ice cube and compressed her face.


    "Thank you, Nick. You are the best," Bella smiled sincerely at him.


    Seeing Bella¡¯s face, Old Donovan took another deep breath. "Are they still outside?" he asked, looking at Nick.


    "No, they all left after I asked them all to go back. I said you don¡¯t want to see them today..." Nick said before returning to the dining table to set up lunch.


    "You did the right thing, Nick," praised Old Donovan, always proud of his butler for handling the situation related to his foolish sons.


    Isaac Donovan regarded Nick as a part of his family. He plans to leave all his wealth to Bella and Nick. He has no intention of giving any more money to his other children as they are only interested in accumulating material possessions.


    After lunch with Grandpa and Nick, Bella immediately said goodbye.


    Bella feels bad for Sean for waiting for her for too long. She is also starting to feel tired and wants to sleep ¡ª this jetlag is now hitting her.


    However, before leaving, she warned her Grandpa not to tell Old Sinclair about Dax. She intended to say to him directly.


    ...


    After closing the door behind her, Bella felt an inevitable ache in her heart as she walked down the empty corridor toward the elevator. She could feel her knees shaking slightly.

 Chapter 35: Sadness

    After closing the door behind her, Bella felt an inevitable ache in her heart as she walked down the empty corridor toward the elevator. She could feel her knees shaking slightly.


    All the emotions she had been holding back for a long time began to torment her. Sadness, anger, and disappointment. It made her want to cry, but she held it in again.


    Arriving at the hospital¡¯s main entrance, Bella took out her cell phone to call Sean. Still, before she could dial his number, she heard the sound of a car horn from a particular direction.


    When Bella noticed Sean¡¯s car, she tried to adjust her expression before walking towards it. She didn¡¯t want Sean to know what was going on inside her mind because of what had just happened in the hospital, especially about her father slapping and verbally abusing her.


    Bella feels ashamed to tell Sean about the way her family treats her. How embarrassing!


    "Thank you, Sean," Bella said after she saw him open the car door for her. This man never fails to make her feel like a queen. Even though they haven¡¯t taken their relationship into the more intimate and significant stage so far, their relationship can only be considered as very close friends who ultimately care for each other.


    Sean smiled at her, but a thin line slowly appeared on his forehead when he saw her red cheek. Hurriedly, he walks toward the driver and settles behind the wheels.


    He didn¡¯t rush to ask Bella. But he waited until she finished putting on her seat belt. When he saw her sit silently, he narrowed his eyes at her. However, Bella averted her gaze and hid her slightly red and swollen cheeks.


    He silently took a deep breath, sensing something terrible must have happened when she met her family.


    "Is everything alright with your meeting, Bella?" Sean asked calmly, even though he wanted to ask her directly.


    Bella turned to him with a smile, but Sean could see her eyes were slightly red, and her smile looked forced ¡ª She held back her tears.


    "Hmm, everything is fine. Grandpa is not really sick. He was only pretending." Bella continues to explain to him about her grandfather¡¯s condition and how he orchestrated his illness to trick her into returning to this country.


    Sean was shocked but amused at the same time by what the old Donovan did.


    "Sean, I didn¡¯t expect that your family¡¯s hospital could work with my Grandfather to fool me¡­" a soft chuckle escaped her lips. At the same time, Sean saw a small scar at the corner of her lips.


    He was even more worried and curious.


    As a soldier, Sean was used to seeing wounds, even if they were only minor marks. He could see someone had slapped her cheek hard, causing her cheek to turn red, and her lips were likely hurt.


    Sean can¡¯t help but ask, "Did someone slap you in the hospital?" his tone sounds worried.


    Bella, "¡­"


    She was rendered speechless. After she tries to hide it from him, this man still knows. Gosh!


    However, at this moment, Bella didn¡¯t want to talk about that incident; The hurt when her father beat and humiliated her still lingered in her heart. She turned her gaze out the window to hide his blurry eyes.


    Bella could still hold back her sadness when she talked to her grandfather. But now, she felt like she couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore.


    Tears slowly fell from the corners of her eyes. She started crying silently to express the sadness and disappointment she felt towards her father.


    Sean felt heartbroken to see her shoulders shaking and her sobs audible in the car.


    He said nothing but handed her a clean handkerchief, letting her cry as much as she needed. Bella was surprised, but she accepted it. She took it and continued her silent crying.


    To let her cry without embarrassment, Sean turned the music radio, set the volume higher than usual, and stepped on the gas. Slowly, the vehicle left the hospital.


    However, not even a minute after the car left the hospital, a hand suddenly landed on his arm. He was surprised to see Bella¡¯s delicate hand.


    Sean glanced at her. He only saw the back of her head.


    "Why? Is the music too loud?" he asked, confused.


    "N-No¡­The music is fine," Bella said between her sobs while shaking her head slightly.


    Sean was confused. He focused on the road again while trying to guess what she wanted by touching his arm.


    After a long silence, he finally smiles when he realizes something, "Aah, so, you must hate the song¡­ alright, I will¡ª"


    "Sean, could you choose a radio with happy or upbeat music, not sad music? Or, I will keep crying if you let me hear sad songs," she said, then cried again.


    ¡¯Fuck!!¡¯ Sean could only curse inwardly. How could he be so insensitive? Of course, she doesn¡¯t want to cry harder because of the sad music. He immediately changed the radio channel and searched for another channel that plays happy songs.


    The car drove away without anyone speaking.


    Not long after, they arrived at the Star Hotel, and Sean parked his car directly in the basement. A faint smile appeared on the corner of his lips when he saw Bella sleeping.


    Sean didn¡¯t rush to wake her. He waited patiently while watching how beautiful her face looked when she slept.


    Seeing that she wasn¡¯t crying anymore relieved him, although he wondered who had dared slap her. But he couldn¡¯t force her to tell him about it. He was afraid she¡¯d be sad again. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not long after, her long eyelashes trembled. She woke up.


    "Bella, how do you feel now?" Sean asked softly.


    Bella was surprised to find that their car was parked. "Where are we?" she asked, confused. She saw them parked in the basement parking lot, and not far away, there was an elevator.


    "Star Hotel," Sean answered. "Do you want to go up now?" He asked again, ensuring she was okay to get out of the car.


    After she nods, Sean immediately exits the car and gently opens the passenger door for Bella.

 Chapter 36: Sean Express His Feeling (1)

    Bella grabbed her bag, exited the car, and walked to the elevator together with Sean.


    "Sean, I thought you wanted to tell me something?" She asked while following him into an executive elevator, which took them straight to the top floor, to the Presidential Suite.


    "Yeah. But let¡¯s talk when we are upstairs," Sean said, glancing at her briefly.


    "Oh, okay..."


    Then, the elevator arrived at the top floor. Bella walked towards her room but stopped when she heard Sean stop her.


    "Bella, would you mind if we go not to your room but to that room." Sean pointed to another room ¡ª only two Presidential Suites were on that floor.


    Bella was surprised. She thought Sean would not stay here tonight and would return to his base camp in North City.


    "Owh, is that your room? Are you going to stay over tonight? How about your work?" She asked with a genuinely concern tone.


    "Oh, no, no. I¡¯m not going to sleep here," Sean said while opening the door for her.


    When he saw her enter the room, he continued, "This presidential suite has never been rented or used by anyone outside my family. It is only accessible to my family members so that we can use it at any time we come to this city."


    "How about my room?"


    "Just like this room. They would never offer it to anyone." He explained casually, but Bella felt burdened to hear it.


    "I see," Bella said. She didn¡¯t expect Sean to upgrade her room to this presidential suite; she had already booked the standard luxury one.


    But this upgraded room didn¡¯t please her. Bella worried that if Sean¡¯s family suddenly showed up and needed the room, it could cause issues. Fortunately, she would move to her Grandpa¡¯s Villa the next day ¡ª she decided to put this matter aside. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella sat on the sofa facing the street view while Sean sat opposite her.


    "Have you had lunch? Want to order something from the kitchen?"


    "Hmm, I had lunch with Grandpa at the hospital. How about you?"


    "Same. I had lunch with Dax and drove around the city with him. After I tucked him in his bed, I went straight to the hospital," Sean explained. He stood up from his seat and offered her a drink. "What would you like to drink?"


    "Wine!" Bella answer. She needs wine to make her heart feel better after what happened in the hospital.


    Sean was taken aback. However, he chose to remain silent. He walked towards the mini bar near the kitchen and poured some wine for Bella while settling for sparkling water for himself.


    He couldn¡¯t drink alcohol today because he had to leave soon and head back to North City, to his military base.


    Sean was suprised when he saw her empty her glass all at once.


    ¡¯Bells, you might get a stomachache if you drink that too quickly,¡¯ Sean wanted to say. Still, he chose not to say anything when he remembered how she had cried until she fell asleep in the car.


    He only smiled at her while settling on the sofa opposite her. When Bella¡¯s eyes fixed on him, Sean turned his gaze to his sparkling water bottle and drank it.


    After finishing her glass of wine, Bella placed it on the table and smiled. "What do you have to tell me?" she asked.


    Sean¡¯s calm expression quickly transformed into nervousness. Despite feeling uneasy, he knew he couldn¡¯t postpone confessing his feelings to her any longer. He realized this was his opportunity to express his love for her before Dax¡¯s father discovered her whereabouts and tried to pursue her again. Losing her was not an option for Sean.


    "Let¡¯s get married, Bells," Sean said calmly, though his heart beat faster than usual. He had never felt as tense as he did now, not even in a life-and-death situation during a dangerous mission.


    Hearing Sean¡¯s words, Bella almost spat out the earlier wine. She coughed, startled by his sudden proposal.


    "Cough¡­ cough¡­" She coughed so hard that her face turned red.


    Sean stood up and asked, "Are you okay?" Before he could assist her, she stopped him.


    Bella quickly answers between coughs, "Yes, I¡¯m fine." She tries to calm her shocked heart after hearing his proposal.


    ¡¯How could he speak those sacred words so lightly?¡¯ she asked herself, lowering her gaze to avoid his eyes.


    Sean sat back in his seat, feeling relieved.


    When he noticed her calm expression, he asked, "Bells, can you please answer me this time?"


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately respond to him but instead looked at him with intense emotions. This man had always attempted to express his feelings to her, but she avoided him.


    And, as far as she remembers, this is the first time Sean directly asks her to marry, which shocks her. She didn¡¯t expect Sean to propose to her suddenly on the first day she landed in this country.


    How does she respond to him now? She has no plans to marry someone again. At least not this soon. The trauma of marrying into the Sinclair family still lingers in her heart and mind. She didn¡¯t want to marry into another powerful and wealthy family.


    The thought of entering the Spencer family, a noble and respected family in the country, exhausted her.


    Bella took a deep breath before speaking. "Sean, I don¡¯t want to hurt you, but I can¡¯t give you false hope either. So, I will only say this one time... I avoid situations like this not because I don¡¯t have feelings for you but because our relationship is impossible."


    Sean clenched his hands into fists when he heard her words, but he couldn¡¯t say anything; he could only stare at her silently.


    "Even though I want our relationship to move to the next level, you know why this relationship has reached an impasse, right? Your family..." Bella continued her words.


    Sadness flashes through Sean¡¯s eyes. "Bells, please... can we put that matter aside?"


    "Sorry, Sean. I can¡¯t unless you make your parents accept me and my son sincerely!"


    Suddenly, Sean¡¯s gloomy eyes lit up. "Are you serious? Will you marry me if they agree?"

 Chapter 37: Sean Express His Feeling (2)

    "Sorry, Sean. I can¡¯t unless you make your parents accept me and my son sincerely!"


    Suddenly, Sean¡¯s gloomy eyes lit up. "Are you serious? Will you marry me if they agree?"


    "Yes, you have my word," Bella replied with a smile as she watched him rise from his seat and approach her.


    "Thank you, Bella," Sean said as he sat beside her and pulled her into his arms. Bella was surprised, but she didn¡¯t refuse. Instead, she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him back.


    Sean smiled as he said, "Please wait for me. I will convince them to accept you and Daxton."


    The smile on her face slowly faded when she remembered her son. If Tristan learned about Dax and knew she would marry Sean, Tristan would probably do something to make things difficult for them, right?


    Bella pushed Sean away. When she saw the confusion in his eyes, she immediately asked, "Sean, do you know who Dax¡¯s father is?"


    "Bells, maybe you won¡¯t believe it, but I don¡¯t know who he is. Even though several times I wanted to investigate your ex-husband," Sean smiled awkwardly. This was the first time they talked about this matter.


    Sean noticed that Bella was silent and didn¡¯t respond to his words.


    So, he continues saying, "I¡¯m so curious to know about the man who traumatized you and made you hesitate to remarry. Does he come from a rich and influential family? Can you tell me who he is?"


    Bella appeared calm, though inside, she was anxious. "Dax¡¯s father is Tristan Sinclair," she said, gazing into his eyes. She was curious if Sean knew Tristan. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sean feels as if he was struck by lightning upon hearing the name. He curses inwardly, frustrated that of all the rich and influential men in the country, it had to be Tristan Sinclair.


    "Did you know him?" Bella could see the trace of anger in Sean¡¯s gaze.


    After trying to hide his annoyance and anger, Sean nods to respond.


    "Yeah, I know him, but not that close. Well, you could say everyone in this country knows him." Sean said calmly, but inside, he felt like a hurricane was brewing.


    "Indeed," was the only word she managed to say, feeling awkward talking about her ex-husband with the man who loved her.


    After a long silence, Sean said, "But my parent might know him slightly better. I remember Tristan Sinclair invited my parents to his wedding. So that must¡¯ve been your wedding... And I remember my parents attended the private party¡ª" his voice trailed off when he saw Bella¡¯s face turn dark.


    Bella slowly lowered her head to avoid his gaze.


    After some time, she said, "Sean, this is why I couldn¡¯t accept your feelings earlier and avoided whenever you asked me about this matter. Because I knew the chance for your parents to accept me was none. They even came to my wedding, so they must have seen my face... how funny would it be if they knew that you now want to marry me? The ex Mrs. Sinclair¡ª"


    Bella paused momentarily to take a deep breath before continuing her words. "I¡¯m a single mother. Tristan¡¯s ex-wife. If he invites your parents to our wedding, it means... he is quite close to your family, right?"


    Bella remembers that when she married, only a few people attended, all of whom were their closest family. If Tristan invites Sean¡¯s parents, it means he already considers Sean¡¯s parents to be his family.


    Thinking about all of that was enough to make her feel a headache.


    Sean¡¯s heart sank hearing her words. But he tries not to show it to her. He squeezed her hand gently as if to encourage her and let her know he would handle everything.


    However, Sean saw her lower her head, avoiding his gaze. Afraid, she cried again. Sean tilted his head to meet her gaze.


    "Bells, do you love me?" He asked.


    Bella was surprised to hear his question. She never really told him about her deepest feelings.


    She did not respond to the question because she would lie if she nodded.


    Sean smiled bitterly when she didn¡¯t respond.


    "Is there any chance for you to love me?" He asked again.


    She nods.


    ¡¯Well, at least she didn¡¯t push me away,¡¯ he tried to comfort his heart.


    "Could you please look at me, Bella?" Sean¡¯s soft voice sounded like a request rather than a command, and Bella immediately turned to face him.


    Bella could only smile back at him when she saw his genuine, warm-looking smile.


    "As long as you give me time to convince them, we will definitely be together," he said. With his other hand, he gently stroked her blushing cheek. "Please be patient, waiting for me, can you!?"


    "Hmm, I¡¯ll wait," Bella whispered softly. It was the first time she had found the courage to open her wounded heart again. She didn¡¯t know the future for them, but she was willing to try. Maybe this time, God would bless her with the true and long-lasting romantic fate she had been waiting for.


    With warm eyes, Sean cast a lingering gaze over her face before kissing her right on her warm lips.


    After so many years, this was the first time Bella shared a kiss romantically with a man she liked and could even fall in love with. The man who could flatter her cold heart.


    Her cheeks turned red like a lovesick teenager. Bella couldn¡¯t help but notice how strange it was.


    "You look cute, Bells... it makes me forget that you¡¯re a 31-year-old single mother with one child," Sean teased, making Bella cup her cheeks with both hands.


    "Oh, come on, Sean Spencer! Stop teasing me!" she said, narrowing her eyes at him. "Mr. Spencer, you should figure out how to approach your parents. I know it won¡¯t be easy for you to convince them," she reminded him of his challenging task ahead.


    Instantly, Sean¡¯s mischievous smile disappeared. He rested his head on the sofa, with his face looking at the crystal chandelier hanging above.


    "If... only my mother allows us to get married, will you accept?" Sean asked, his eyes still on the ceiling.

 Chapter 38: Passionate Kiss *

    After a long silence, Sean asked, "If... only my mother allows us to get married, will you accept?"


    "I¡¯m sorry, Sean. I can¡¯t." Bella stated firmly. "I wish your parents would accept me and my son sincerely, without any conditions." She didn¡¯t want to repeat her past mistakes by marrying into a toxic family like Tristan¡¯s.


    Sean sighed softly after hearing the answer. He said nothing because he suspected Bella¡¯s marriage to Tristan didn¡¯t seem happy.


    Bella smiled as she heard him sigh deeply. She gazed at him momentarily, teasing him, "Oh, Mr. Spencer... giving up already?"


    Sean sat up straight again and tilted his body slightly to see her face clearly.


    "Bells, giving up is not an option for me. No matter how hard the road may be, I will pursue my goals." He said firmly.


    "I like your enthusiasm. You will have my prayer, Sean."


    "As you should!" Sean patted the top of her head gently while smiling.


    However, Sean¡¯s smile disappeared as he remembered that he wouldn¡¯t be able to meet his parents anytime soon. So, Bella will have to wait a bit longer.


    "Bells, I¡¯m afraid you will have to wait a little longer."


    "What do you mean?" Bella asked, confused.


    "I have to fly to the Middle East tonight. It¡¯s an assignment that I can¡¯t discuss with you. Not even the slightest detail," Sean said apologetically before flashing a smile.


    "I don¡¯t know how long we¡¯ll stay there because this is an undercover mission. We have to¡ª" his voice hung in the air as he realized he was talking too much about his secret mission.


    When he saw her confused, he continued, "But I promise you, I will try to contact you if I have the opportunity."


    Sean said that to keep Bella from getting upset or worried. Even though he knew that he wouldn¡¯t have the chance to do so because, during a secret mission, he wouldn¡¯t be able to contact anyone, including his family, because if their enemies found out, they would target them.


    Bella tried to contain her shock, knowing they would be separated for a while.


    "Sean, I understand your situation. Please never be worried about me. I¡¯m fine on my own, and I will patiently wait for you here," Bella smiled to make him feel better. "So, can you tell me how long you will be on the mission?"


    "Yeah, that I can. I¡¯m not really sure at this point. I¡¯d say around six months. I hope it can be accomplished sooner. But the possibility that it may take longer than that is also still open..." Sean let out another long sigh.


    Sean had never felt this way before. He was always excited about his mission. But now? He felt terrible for the first time. It feels awful when a woman promises to give him a chance to own her heart, but he can¡¯t do that right away because he has to go on a mission. It feels sucks!


    Meanwhile, Bella felt her heart sink when she heard they would be separated for that long. She thought he would only be gone for a few weeks.


    She tried her best to conceal her shock while casually saying, "Alright, I trust you know how to take care of yourself, but still, always be careful, Sean. And... please return in good health."


    "Thank you, Bella. I will definitely come back for you and Dax!" His eyes shone even brighter at the thought of someone waiting for him.


    Sean is very excited and happy. He cupped Bella¡¯s warm cheeks gently with both hands while looking into her eyes lovingly. Then, slowly, he leaned closer and gently pressed his lips to Bella¡¯s warm lips, causing her to be stunned, but she didn¡¯t resist his kiss.


    Bella could feel the warmth of his tongue dancing in her mouth. Rather than resist, she returned his kiss with equal passion while wrapping her arms around his neck. A few times. She felt her blood rush with this passion.


    The air in Bella¡¯s chest was practically squeezed out. She wanted to breathe, even if she had to put some distance between them. However, in Sean¡¯s tight embrace, she could not move.


    Several times, soft moans were heard coming from Bella¡¯s lips when Sean¡¯s hand touched the back of her neck gently and deepened his tongue into hers.


    The gradual lack of oxygen causes Bella¡¯s limbs to be weak. In the end, she tries again to push his chest away.


    "S-Sean..."


    When Bella felt like she was going to die from lack of oxygen, Sean finally gave in to kissing her any longer. The tip of his warm tongue gently brushed her unusually rosy lips while smiling lovingly, looking into her eyes.


    Seeing her mouth open slightly when she inhaled deeply seemed to arouse the desire to devour her again, but he held back. Sean could only smile at her while brushing her lips gently as their eyes still looked at each other.


    Receiving fresh air once more, Bella gasped for air like a drowning person. She hurriedly hid her face in his firm chest when she saw his eyes burn in passion.


    Bella was afraid she wouldn¡¯t be able to stop herself if this man wanted to do something more than kiss, something she wanted to do so badly, but her rational mind was holding her back.


    Sean embraces her and smiles widely, content with their passionate kiss. He will always cherish this kiss. Now, he must rush back to the capital to meet his parents and convince them to accept Bella and her son as part of their family.


    ... Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For a few moments, Bella enjoyed the hug in silence. However, not long after, she heard Sean tell her about what he would do before going to the mission and what he would do when he returned from the mission and met his parents.


    Bella said nothing. But deep in her heart, she prayed that Sean¡¯s parents would be much better and nicer than Tristan¡¯s and would accept her without condition.


    Before long,


    Bella remembered something. She released his hug and saw Sean in the eyes.


    "Sean. Earlier, you said that you know Tristan! Is that true?"


    "Yeah. I know him, but I never knew him well. He was close to my father, though. Why?"


    Although Bella wanted to ignore this, she couldn¡¯t. She needs to talk to Sean if she wants this relationship to work.

 Chapter 39: Family Dinner

    Although Bella wanted to ignore this, she couldn¡¯t. She needs to talk to Sean if she wants this relationship to work.


    "How will you handle Tristan? I mean, once he knows Dax is his son, he will definitely give me trouble¡ª"


    Sean¡¯s blissful expression vanished. He had planned to meet Tristan today before flying to the Middle East, but that plan couldn¡¯t be carried out today. He was already late and had to return to his base immediately.


    "And, as for me, I will sacrifice everything for Dax, even my feelings..." Bella wanted to say that but was worried it would hurt Sean. All the sentences on the tip of her tongue came back into her throat.


    She cleared her throat before saying, "Sean, Tristan will find out about Dax sooner or later. I¡¯m afraid he will cause you trouble, too."


    Sean¡¯s face slowly turned dark. He imagined talking to Tristan about his plans to marry his ex-wife. Thinking about it made him feel awkward, but he would do anything for the woman he loved, including ignoring his pride.


    "Bells, trust me. I will take care of Tristan. There is no need to worry about him," Sean smiled warmly, but his gloomy gaze seemed to betray him. Bella could see it, but she pretended not to notice.


    "I trust you," She said while burying herself into his warm embrace once more.


    They hugged until Sean had to say goodbye and return to his base.


    Sean had to leave immediately, or he would face this country¡¯s military court for neglecting his duties.


    ...


    After Sean left, Bella rushed to her president¡¯s suitroom. She suddenly felt sleepy and exhausted after so many happened today.


    Her family¡¯s harsh welcome and Sean¡¯s sudden confession make her feel emotionally exhausted. She needs to replenish her energy before facing her son, or her brilliant son will read everything from her expression. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella entered their president suite, she didn¡¯t see anyone in the living room. She quickly checked Dax¡¯s bedroom, only to find him fast asleep under his covers. After she ensured the blanket covered his body, she let him sleep a little longer.


    Before heading to her bedroom, Bella checked Aunty Noora¡¯s room. She could only smile when she saw that she was also asleep.


    Bella threw herself onto the mattress when she saw the clean and soft bed.


    It didn¡¯t take long; she immediately fell asleep.


    ****


    Diamond Restaurant.


    This restaurant is located on the fifth floor of the hotel building.


    Bella decided to have their first family dinner in the country at this restaurant because she felt too lazy to go out. It¡¯s freezing outside ¡ª it¡¯s snowing right now.


    After making a reservation one hour before, they walk there. Surprisingly, the restaurant was so crowded that almost no seats were left.


    There were only a few tables left, and she was thankful enough to have made a reservation beforehand. The waitress led them to the best table with a city view.


    They enjoyed their light dinner while chatting. Bella told Dax and Noora about her plan for tomorrow. They will visit Lake Village, where her grandpa lives.


    Noora and Dax were both surprised to know that, especially Dax.


    He places his cutlery on the plate and wipes his mouth with a napkin before he fixes his gaze on his mother, who continues to talk to Noora.


    "Mom," Dax called her with his voice sounding like a child¡¯s, but his expression looked like an adult ¡ª serious.


    "Yes, baby..." Bella answered him cheerfully. When she saw his steak was finished, she continued, "You need more food? Do you want Mommy to order another steak?"


    Dax slightly shook his head, "I¡¯m not eating anymore, Mom. I¡¯m just curious about something."


    Bella was stunned.


    Usually, her son will ask for more food because he likes to eat.


    "What is it, baby?" Bella asked as she put down her cutlery and paid more attention to him.


    "Mom, you said earlier that great-grandpa was in a coma and hospitalized, right? But why has he returned home?"


    Bella was amused by the way this little guy spoke. "Your great-grandpa was immediately healthy when I visited him. So, tomorrow we don¡¯t need to go to the hospital to visit him, but we will go to his house..."


    "Wow, really? That¡¯s great to hear that, Mommy. I can¡¯t wait to meet Great-grandpa..." Dax is excited. He flashes a smile at his mother before starting to eat his dessert.


    Bella gently ruffled Dax¡¯s hair and let him enjoy his chocolate cake.


    She asks Aunty Noora to pack their clothes as they will move to her grandpa¡¯s Villa before flying back to the capital.


    "Yes, young miss," Noora gave Bella an OK sign. She was pleased to finally be able to return to the old house she lived in before following Bella to the city.


    "Oh, I forgot to ask you, little man," Bella returned her gaze to Dax. "How¡¯s your day with Uncle Sean? Did you play with him today?"


    Even though Bella had heard what they were doing from Sean, she wanted to listen to it directly from her son¡¯s mouth.


    "Uncle Sean took me for a drive around town. We also stopped at a restaurant. After that, Uncle Sean also bought me a Lego as my welcome gift. After that..." Dax paused, trying to remember. "Mom, I forgot what happened after that... What I remember is I woke up in my bedroom.


    I guess... I¡¯m sleeping in the car."


    Bella, "..."


    "So you didn¡¯t say goodbye to him?"


    Dax shook his head in disappointment.


    "Mom, please call Uncle for me. I want to talk to him. Please, Mom..." he asked while blinking his beautiful blue eyes, making Bella smile.


    "Sorry, Dax, I can¡¯t call him right now. Uncle Sean is on duty right now¡ª" Bella said. She wanted to call him too, but in the last message she received from him, he told her that he was boarding. He also mentioned that he probably couldn¡¯t hold his cell phone for an unknown time.


    Seeing the disappointment radiating from Dax¡¯s gaze, Bella could only smile faintly.


    "Okay, let¡¯s go back to the room. We need to pack our things." Bella deliberately changed the topic of conversation so that her son¡¯s attention would be distracted, no longer asking about Sean.


    ****


    After a few minutes, Bella left the restaurant. A man in a black hat looked around him worriedly before entering a black van parked behind the Star Hotel.


    He handed a black bag containing used cutlery and glasses from one of their restaurant guests to a man beside him.

 Chapter 40: Dax’s Curiosity

    After a few minutes, Bella left the restaurant. A man in a black hat looked around him worriedly before entering a black van parked behind the Star Hotel. He handed a black bag containing used cutlery and glasses from one of their restaurant guests to a man beside him.


    "This is your fee," The man handed a thick brown envelope to the man in the black hat.


    "Sir, I won¡¯t be in trouble, right?" asked the man in the black hat after putting the envelope in his jacket pocket.


    "Man, everything will be fine. No need to worry!"


    The man in the black hat breathed a sigh of relief. This was actually an easy task for him. However, if his superiors found out what he was doing, they would fire him. But he also couldn¡¯t refuse someone who offered him $10k. He needed money to pay his mother¡¯s hospital bills.


    "Okay, sir. Then, I¡¯ll excuse myself now..." The man in the black hat bowed his head slightly before getting out of the van.


    After the man in the black hat got out of the car, the man who received the bag was Dylan¡ªTristan Sinclair¡¯s assistant. He looked at Max, who was sitting next to the driver.


    "Have you erased our tracks?" Dylan didn¡¯t want anyone to notice they were there.


    "No worries," Max says calmly. Then, he looked at the driver. "You can move now¡ª"


    ****


    At the same time, when Bella and the others arrived at the suite, her cell phone rang. Jack was the one who called. She asked Dax to play with Noora before she entered her bedroom to pick up the call.


    "Hi, Jack¡­" Bella greeted him cheerfully, only to hear his cold response.


    "I thought you forgot about me again, Bella." He said.


    "Sorry, boss. "I was a bit busy here and forgot to contact you," Bella laughed lightly, ignoring his annoyance.


    "Glad to know you guys landed safely," Jack¡¯s voice turned warm. That made Bella smile as she walked towards the large glass window, gazing at the busy street below while chatting with him.


    "Thank you, Jack."


    "Not a big deal..."


    "You only want to ask me about this?"


    "Of course not. Your assistant has landed in the capital. He will take care of your matter in the office before you start work¡ª" Jack explained.


    "Oh, you send someone from the head office?" Bella was suprised.


    "Yes. And match perfectly to your requirements," Jack said in his not-so-fond tone.


    "Who? I know him...her?" Bella was curious because her requirements for a personal assistant were quite tricky.


    Bella only wanted to cause trouble for Jack because he forced her to return when she wanted to enjoy her life without work. She plans to take the dividend from their joint venture company, but her plan fails because of him.


    "I¡¯m not telling you!" He chuckled. "You can meet him when you visit the office. When will you start?"


    "In two weeks¡ª"


    "Why are you delaying again? Didn¡¯t you promise me that you would only need a week?" Jack flared up, frustrated by her words.


    Bella shook her head while smiling, "Tsk¡­ tsk¡­ Boss, can you not interrupt me?"


    "Ah, you have not yet finished your words? "


    "Yes.


    "Alright, go on¡­" Jack said.


    "In two weeks¡­ if you allowed me. So, my kind and handsome boss, what is your answer?"


    "No!" Jack answers firmly.


    "Tsk! Tsk! You¡¯re such a heartless boss," Bella said, annoyed. However, when she heard Jack repeat many excuses, she quickly cut him off by saying she was sleepy.


    After the phone call ended, Bella opened her laptop and researched about Tristan Sinclair.


    She needed to learn the latest news about Tristan before telling Dax about him.


    **** S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax was wearing his pajamas. He leaned against the headboard while reading something on his iPad¡ªa business interview with the CEO of Sinclair Corp.


    A few minutes passed, but he remained fixated on the CEO of Sinclair Corp picture and the CEO¡¯s answers to the interviewer¡¯s questions. The interviewer was asking about the CEO¡¯s personal life.


    Dax felt strange because this was the first time he was interested in a businessman¡¯s personal life. He usually only reads about their business success.


    Looking at Tristan Sinclair¡¯s blue eyes, Dax senses something interesting about the man. Curious about this man, he opens a browser to search for more details about him.


    However, before Dax finished typing his name, his fingers stopped when he heard a knock on the door, followed by his mother¡¯s voice.


    "Baby, are you in there?"


    He put his iPad on the bed and answered her, "Yes, Mommy..."


    Dax saw her open the door, but after a few seconds passed, she said nothing and only stood by the door, staring at him with a weird expression.


    He calmly asked, "Are you okay, Mom? Why did you just stand on the door and look at me like that?"


    Bella was stunned to hear his question. She tried to focus again on what she wanted to tell him about his father¡¯s family. She needed to do this now before they visited Lake Village tomorrow.


    She¡¯s worried that Grandpa Sinclair will recognize Dax when they arrive there and will cause confusion for Dax.


    "May I come in, Dax?" She asked.


    He nods.


    "I need to talk to you about something," Bella said as she walked towards the bed and sat on the side. Her eyes looked at Dax, who looked confused at her. "Do you want to know about your father?"


    Dax¡¯s eyes widened in surprise at his mother¡¯s words. He nodded.


    He would be lying if he said no. He always wanted to ask his mother about it but couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it for unknown reasons.


    His curiosity about his biological father arose a year ago. After he could read fluently, he came across a strange article: Reasons Why Single Mothers Raise Their Children Alone.


    In the article, he found several ridiculous reasons. But, two reasons might suit his mother. First, his father had died. Second, his mother got a sperm donor, so he doesn¡¯t have a father.


    Dax felt excited, waiting for his mother to answer his curiosity.

 Chapter 41: Tell Dax About His Father

    Dax felt excited, waiting for his mother to answer his curiosity.


    Bella smiled slightly as she ruffled Dax¡¯s hair gently before saying, "Dax, I¡¯m sorry I never talked to you about him before. Because it¡¯s hard for me¡ª" her voice trailed off as she felt something prick her heart.


    "It¡¯s okay, Mom. I understand," Dax replied with a warm smile. He didn¡¯t want to see his mother sad, so he held her hands and tapped them gently.


    Bella actually felt even more sad seeing how considerate her son was. She tried not to cry in front of him.


    "Your father, he¡¯s not dead, if you think maybe he is," Bella took another deep breath. She hadn¡¯t expected it to be this difficult to talk about Tristan before Dax. "And he is also from this country."


    Dax¡¯s eyes lit up.


    "But, my dear, I will not tell you his name for now," she said, only to see his eyes turn gloomy.


    Dax didn¡¯t know how to respond. He just nodded at his mother, even though he felt disappointed.


    "I¡¯m telling you this because, in a few days, you will probably meet your great-grandpa from your father¡¯s side. So, I think by then, you will get to know a lot more about your father and his family," she says.


    After saying those words, Bella felt the weight on her shoulders lifted. She couldn¡¯t help but praise herself for overcoming her worries, even though she hadn¡¯t said it in detail.


    Dax was surprised to learn this. His smile widened, and the light in his eyes became even brighter. However, he is worried about hearing wrongly. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He repeated her mother¡¯s words to ensure, "Mommy, you said I also would meet my great-grandpa from my father¡¯s side?"


    "Yes." Bella was amused at how excited her son was. It was the first time she had seen this side of him ¡ª he looked so cute with his spring-like smile.


    She regrets not telling him about his father sooner.


    "Are you that happy about meeting him in person?" Bella smiles while rubbing his chubby cheek.


    Instantly, Dax¡¯s smile fades, and his expression slowly changes to calm.


    ¡¯Gosh!! He is back to Tristan-mode-on again, cold and distant.¡¯ Bella laughed in her heart, looking at how fast her son¡¯s expression changed.


    "Yes. I¡¯m excited to meet another family besides you and Grandma Noora. Thank you, Mom, for letting me meet Great-Grandpa Donovan. And... What was his first name again? You told me his first name a couple of weeks ago.


    Can you tell me again, Mom?" He said in his calm, distant tone.


    "Oh, nice try, little man." Bella chuckled while ruffling her hair. "I told you I will not name names now. If I did, I know you would search for him all night. And you probably would stay awake until morning. Remember, we should wake up early to visit your Great-Grandpa¡¯s house tomorrow, and we need to look fresh. Only sleeps would make us fresh, remember?" She explains to him softly.


    Dax, "...".


    ¡¯Oh no¡­Mom knows my trick!?¡¯ He silently sighs.


    "Is there anything you want to ask before bed?" Bella asked again before returning to her bedroom.


    Dax pondered for a moment. He wanted to ask many things, but he was sure that even if he asked, she would not answer because the question was relatively straightforward.


    After a few moments, he sought a way to find only a little clue about his father. Something crosses his mind.


    "Mommy, is my father a good man?"


    "Of course, he¡¯s a good man," Bella said sincerely. Even Tristan was very cold to her, but he never hit or scolded her. She only heard him say hurtful words the day she signed the divorce papers.


    "I see," Dax slowly nods, then continues, "Is he cheating on you?"


    Bella almost choked when she heard his question, "Little man, how do you know that kind of word?"


    "Mom, I didn¡¯t hear from anyone. But I read it..." Dax explained, frowning. He was confused as to why his mother looked shocked about the word ¡¯cheating.¡¯


    "What article did you read to learn that word?" Bella started worrying. She has ensured the iPads and laptops she gives are safe for children.


    "Did you change your iPad and laptop settings?" Bella asked, even though she knew the answer. Dax won¡¯t be able to change it because only she knows the password.


    "I didn¡¯t mom. Why do you look so shocked? That¡¯s just a normal word. Even for a kid my age," he said calmly.


    When he saw she said nothing, he continued, "I read an article ¡ª Reasons Why Single Mothers Raise Their Children Alone. ¡ª That article discusses why some mothers decide to become single. One reason, I remember, was that their husband was cheating. Isn¡¯t that right?"


    Bella was rendered speechless. ¡¯Are you really a four-year-old boy? Why did you read that weird article?¡¯


    She made a note in her mind to add forbidden words like these to his gadget.


    "Dax, make sure you didn¡¯t read or watch something inappropriate for your age, or Mommy will keep your iPad and laptop! Forever!"


    "I promised. I know cheating is bad, Mom. But how was father cheating on you?" Dax asked again when he saw her standing from the bed.


    Bella, "..."


    "Well, the word cheating is not as simple as you thought. However, talking about it with children your age might not be the best idea." Bella feared she would teach an inappropriate thing to Dax, and Dax became even more curious.


    "Alright, so my father was indeed cheating on you, right?"


    Bella, "..."


    "Oh, my dear Dax, I didn¡¯t say that. Don¡¯t try to twist your mommy¡¯s words," She smiled, realizing this little man was trying to lure her into his trap to find information about his father.


    Gosh!


    How cheeky.


    "Well, your father and I divorced, but I can¡¯t tell you why we decided to end our marriage and live separately...not now. Maybe someday," Bella explained calmly. "Okay, young man, you need to sleep now. Stop playing with your iPad."


    "Mommy... Wait... Can I ask you one last question?"


    "Are you sure this will be the last?" She narrowed her eyes on him.


    He nods.


    "Yes... I promise." Dax said while making a V sign to promise her.


    "Okay, go on," Bella said, feeling defeated. Her son was too cute to be denied for one last question before bed.


    "Is my father a mafia lord famous for his kindheart?"


    Bella almost choked.


    ¡¯Good Heaven! Why does he think his father is a mafia lord?¡¯

 Chapter 42: Arrive At The Lake View Village

    "Is my father a mafia lord famous for his kindheart?"


    Bella almost choked.


    ¡¯Good Heaven! Why does he think his father is a mafia lord?¡¯


    She silently took a deep breath before answering, "No, son. He is a businessman. Alright, young man... that¡¯s it for today." Bella said and turned off the light.


    She fixed her gaze one last time on the bed, "Don¡¯t try to open your iPad!!"


    "Hmm¡­okay. Good night, Mommy. Love you, Mom."


    "Love you more, baby. Sleep well..." She closed the door.


    Bella stood in front of Dax¡¯s room for a moment. She placed her hands on her chest and took a deep breath. After talking to his son about his father, she felt relieved. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Earlier, Bella didn¡¯t know why she was so upset when she heard the words¡¯ cheating¡¯ come out of her son¡¯s tiny lips.


    Only this time did she realize maybe it was because those words triggered something she buried deep in her heart!?


    Memories of five years ago slowly danced in her mind when she found out that Tristan had another woman, and his other woman was also pregnant.


    Sigh!


    Bella shook her head before she finally walked toward her bedroom.


    ¡­


    While inside Dax¡¯s room,


    After Dax heard his mother¡¯s bedroom door shut, he opened his eyes and sat again, leaning on the bedhead.


    His eyes flashed with curiosity as he took his iPad under the blanket. He opened the last article he had read and started staring at the photo of the CEO of Sinclair Corp. Looking at this man¡¯s eyes, he felt that something had caught his attention.


    Strangely, just looking at this photo made him suspect that this handsome and brilliant man in the business world was his father.


    Now, his mind starts to remember what his mother said. His father is from this country. He is also a businessman.


    "Because we have the same eye and hair color, and you are also smart. Why did I think you were my father? Are you really¡­ my father?" He quietly spoke to no one.


    After a long silence, Dax decided to look up his name. He typed ¡¯Tristan Sinclair¡¯ into the search engine.


    Dax was surprised to find more than ten billion articles about him. However, after only a few seconds, he read the one article. He immediately closed the search engine and threw his iPad at the bedside.


    Another deep, long breath echoes in the room.


    "Tristan Sinclair has never been married! This man is definitely not my father," Dax said.


    He smiled bitterly while closing his eyes.


    ****


    Next morning.


    After two hours of driving, Bella and the others finally arrived at her grandfather¡¯s hometown, Lake View Village.


    This village is seated on the border between East City and North City. Despite being far from the sea, it boasts stunning mountain and lake views.


    Because of its beautiful natural conditions and famously clean air, numerous wealthy and famous individuals possess property in this region.


    This village is the hometown of Isaac Donovan and Lewis Sinclair; they were born and raised there.


    Bella used to visit her grandmother at this place when she was little and on holiday. Also, in this place, for the first time, Bella met Aunty Noora ¡ª she used to be her grandma¡¯s caretaker.


    However, when Bella¡¯s grandmother died in this village, Aunt Noora began caring for Bella as her nanny. She moved to her family¡¯s house in the city.


    Bella looked at Noora, "Are you happy to finally be back here?" she asked.


    Noora enthusiastically nodded. "Yes, Young Miss¡­ after so many years, I am finally back."


    Since moving to the capital with Bella, Noora had never returned to this place. This place holds so many memories for Noora because she already considers it her hometown. She spent her entire teenage years living here.


    "Me too, Aunty. The last I visited was when Grandma died," Bella said, feeling melancholic and remembering her grandma.


    No words come out from Noora¡¯s lips, but her eyes flash with sadness, remembering her Mistress.


    "Let¡¯s rest here for a few days before we fly to the Capital," Bella said. Then she looked out of the car at the stunning, towering pine trees covered in snow flanking the empty road.


    However, not even a minute after she enjoyed the scenery, she heard Dax¡¯s voice calling her.


    "Mom, why does this place look like our house in Northern Sweden?" Dax said while looking at the view filled with pine trees and snow as far as the eye could see.


    "Yes, you¡¯re right; this place is similar to our village there. Because this village is located in the north, bordering North City, it is cooler than another place in this East City," She explained.


    "So, there will be a frozen lake behind grandfather¡¯s villa, too!?" Dax asked excitedly. He used to go fishing with Noora on the frozen lake behind their cabin every winter.


    "Yes, Young Master¡­ there is a large lake behind your great-grandfather¡¯s house. We will have fun there." Noora¡¯s eyes lit up. She couldn¡¯t wait to go fishing with Dax.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; She tried to enjoy the view of the village to remember her childhood memories in this place.


    Not long after, their car was finally parked in front of the two-story villa. She could see her grandfather and Nick waiting for them through the entrance.


    After unloading all the luggage, Bella thanked the driver and asked him to return to the hotel. She wouldn¡¯t use their car during her stay here because she wasn¡¯t planning on going anywhere. She would stay at home before leaving for the capital.


    When Bella turned back, she didn¡¯t see Dax and her grandpa. She only saw Nick and Noora carrying their luggage into the house.


    "Aunty, where¡¯s Dax?"


    "Young Miss," Nick answered her. "Young Master already inside with old master¡ª"


    Bella, "..."


    She immediately entered the house and found her son sitting on her grandfather¡¯s lap near the fireplace.


    Bella was rendered speechless. She hadn¡¯t even had the chance to introduce them officially, but they looked friendly, chatting and laughing as if they had known each other for a long time.

 Chapter 43: Dax Meets Great-Grandfather

    Bella was rendered speechless. She hadn¡¯t even had the chance to introduce them officially, but they looked friendly, chatting and laughing as if they had known each other for a long time.


    Before Bella could say something, Old Donovan saw her.


    "Oh, Bella, come, come¡­ join us," Old Donovan said, a smile spreading across his face before continuing his words with excitement.


    "This young man... He is only four years old, but he can read. Surprisingly, he likes to play my favorite chess. And you know what? He also likes fishing. Amazing, he¡¯s just like me..." Old Donovan said proudly while looking at Dax lovingly.


    Bella, "..."


    She was rendered speechless.


    ¡¯Did Grandfather forget that young genius is my son?¡¯ Bella could only laugh bitterly in her heart. Seeing her, Grandpa was so focused on Dax that he even forgot about her in just a few minutes.


    "I can¡¯t believe this young man is my great-grandson." Old Donovan warmly hugged Dax, saying, "Daxton Donovan, I¡¯m so happy to meet you finally. You are my favorite great-grandson..."


    ¡¯Perfect. I¡¯m no longer his favorite granddaughter...¡¯ Bella didn¡¯t know whether to be sad or proud about this. She could only smile faintly as she continued walking to the seating area to join them.


    Bella sat across from them while gesturing to Dax to sit alone. However, her usually calm and composed son had now behaved like any child his age. Dax didn¡¯t move from Grandpa¡¯s lap. He ignored her and continued talking to her grandfather.


    She felt amused looking at his childish side. The rare expression he shows them lately.


    "Grandpa, don¡¯t spoil Dax too much. Let him sit alone," Bella said, but her grandfather ignored her.


    "Oh, please, Bella... Let me enjoy this precious moment with my beloved Dax¡ª" Old Donovan said with a gloomy expression, knowing they would only be staying here for the next few days.


    Hearing her grandfather¡¯s words, Bella couldn¡¯t say anything else. She could only smile at him. However, what her son said next shocked her.


    "Great-grandpa, you can move with us to the capital," Dax said casually as he looked at his mother. "¡ªMommy, we have a guest room in our new house, right?"


    Before Bella could say anything, Old Donovan shouted happily, "Really? Can I move into your house?" His eyes lit up at Dax, then turned to Bella.


    "Of course, you can move in with us¡­" Dax answered. "Right, Mom?" he asked in her cute tone, causing Bella to waver with his absurd request.


    But, a second later, Bella shook her head to dismiss the idea of living with her grandfather.


    She wants a peaceful life in this country. If her grandfather lived with them, it would mean that she would trigger her father and uncle¡¯s curiosity and jealousy towards her.


    It would be troublesome!


    Bella couldn¡¯t even imagine they would visit her house every weekend or holiday. No!


    "I¡¯m sorry, Dax. But our apartment only has three bedrooms." Bella smiled at Dax even though she was venting her frustration inwardly.


    ¡¯Gosh, this smart young man must be thinking of another way to get Grandpa to live with us...¡¯ Bella said to herself when she saw Dax frown. He seemed to be thinking about something.


    Before Dax had another idea, Bella hurriedly explained.


    "After all, your great-grandpa wanted to stay here for his health. Right, Grandpa?" Bella tries to send a sign to Grandpa to reject Dax¡¯s idea. She knew her grandfather wanted to spend his old age in this quiet, secluded place.


    "I don¡¯t mind moving to the capital as long as I can be with my great-grandchildren¡­" said old Donovan while hugging Dax.


    Bella, "¡­"


    ¡¯Did he forget what he said yesterday? He insisted on staying here because he didn¡¯t want to deal with his useless children!? Why did he suddenly change his plans?¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but feel puzzled.


    "But, Grandpa, to be honest, my apartment isn¡¯t that big. We don¡¯t have a spare room, so you can¡¯t stay with¡ª" Before Bella finished her words, Nick appeared with a tea set and distracted her.


    Noora follows behind Nick, carrying a cake and waffle for their brunch.


    Nick placed the tea set on the table before he looked at Old Donovan. He heard their conversation before entering this living room, and he couldn¡¯t help but need to remind his master.


    "Old Master, you actually have a house in the Capital. Have you forgotten?" Nick asked.


    Old Donovan frowned, trying to remember the property. He doesn¡¯t remember the exact location of his properties, but he does own land and houses in all the cities in the country.


    After being silent for a long time, Old Donovan finally remembered, "You mean the house on the hill? What is the name of the location?"


    "Yes, master. Little heaven... You own a nice house on the hill with sea views." Nick explained.


    "I remember that place. In the past... we usually visited that place when winter came because that area always felt warm, even in the winter." Old Donovan was excited about living there with Bella and Dax.


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯What the heck!! Why is Nick helping Grandpa too?¡¯ She was speechless.


    "Dear Bella... that house is quite nice, and the location is also better for Dax to grow up. A child like him can¡¯t grow up in a small apartment," he stressed.


    Old Donovan looked at Nick again, "Nick, have the housekeeper clean the house. We will move there," he ordered. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella opened her mouth several times to stop her grandfather, but she couldn¡¯t do that when she saw how happy he was now. She could only take a deep breath as she started eating the cake that Noora gave her.


    "I¡¯ll call them now, sir." Before he made a call, Nick looked at Bella. "Young Miss, when will you return to the Capital?"


    "In five days," Bella said faintly.


    When she saw Dax and her Grandpa starting to chat again, Bella asked Noora to sit next to her.


    "Aunty, can you take Dax on a house tour? I need to talk to Grandpa!" Bella whispers to her.

 Chapter 44: Sudden Plan!

    When she saw Dax and her Grandpa starting to chat again, Bella asked Noora to sit next to her.


    "Aunty, can you take Dax on a house tour? I need to talk to Grandpa alone," Bella whispers to her.


    Bella needed time with her grandfather to discuss his plans to move in with them. If he is serious, then she couldn¡¯t let him do that. Well, not this time.


    "He seems to enjoy hanging out with Old Master, Young Miss. But I will try. Don¡¯t worry, Young Miss," Noora said.


    "Thank you."


    "Ah, I forget to ask. By the way, is Old Master serious about moving to the capital with us?" Noora expresses her doubts about the Old Master¡¯s seriousness about his plan.


    "I am not sure either. That¡¯s why I need you to take Dax with you."


    Bella turned her gaze towards Dax. She couldn¡¯t believe her son had gotten so close to her grandfather in such a short time. Even with Jack, when he visited them in their cabin in Sweden, it took Dax a few days to talk to Jack. And to this day, Dax never wanted Jack to carry him.


    Sean was the only person who could match how quickly Dax got close to his grandfather. But it also took Sean several hours to get Dax to talk to him casually.


    Bella silently sighed deeply before looking at Noora again. "You can start now, Aunty. They will not stop talking until noon if we let them..."


    Noora nodded. She stood up from her seat and walked over to Old Donovan.


    "Excuse me, Old Master¡­" When Old Donovan looked at her, Noora smiled before continuing her words. "I need young master Dax to follow me. There is something important we need to do¡ª"


    Old Donovan was surprised to hear another woman¡¯s voice. He had heard that voice before, well, a long time ago. He turned to look and was shocked to see Noora, his wife¡¯s maid, standing there.


    "Oh my God! Is that you, Noora?" he said in surprise. "Why didn¡¯t I see you earlier? You just arrived, or are you coming with them?"


    Noora didn¡¯t expect Old Donovan to say that. She had entered the room a few minutes ago, but he was unaware of her.


    ¡¯Is my big body not large enough to be seen, causing him not to see me?¡¯ Noora wondered, glancing briefly at Bella.


    Bella almost spat out her tea, hearing her grandpa¡¯s words.


    Dax smiles, looking at Noora, who now feels awkward. He gets off his Great-Grandfather¡¯s lap.


    "Gramps, she is my nanny. She comes with us." Dax explained.


    Bella frowned, hearing Dax call her grandfather ¡¯Gramps.¡¯ She remembered earlier that she still heard Dax calling him Great-Grandfather. ¡¯Did they make another new deal?¡¯ Bella wondered.


    "Forgive this old man, Noora. I might¡¯ve missed you when you came into the house..." Old Donovan smiled, sincerely apologizing to Noora. "Well, I was too excited to meet Dax, and I guess I immersed myself in talking to him."


    "It¡¯s okay, old master. I¡¯m grateful you¡¯re still as healthy as I saw you the last time, and I¡¯m happy enough that you remember me, too." Noora said while lowering her head to hide her chuckle.


    "Hahaha, of course, I will remember you. I already consider you like my family, just like Nick. And thank you very much for looking after Bella and Dax..." His sincere expression warmed Noora¡¯s heart. This is one of the reasons she devoted herself to work with Old Master Donovan and her young Miss; they were very kind to her.


    "It has been my duty to care for them, old master. There is no need to thank me for that," Noora replied, embarrassed. "Old Master, I need Dax for a moment. You can continue talking to him later..." she said as she held Dax¡¯s hand firmly and winked at him to follow her out of the room.


    Dax blinked at Noora. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although Noora suddenly asked him to leave the room with her, Dax followed her without asking questions.


    "Have fun, Dax..." Bella said, waving her hand as his curious eyes looked at her.


    ...


    After Bella saw Noora and Dax leave the room, she placed her empty cake plate on the coffee table and looked at her grandfather.


    She narrowed her eyes before saying, "Grandfather, you are not serious with your words, are you?"


    "Which words?"


    "Moving with us at the capital¡ª"


    "Oh, Dear... of course I¡¯m serious. Didn¡¯t you hear? I even asked Nick to call the housekeeper to clean the house," Old Donovan knitted his thick eyebrows as he looked at her.


    Bella¡¯s shoulder drops upon hearing his words.


    "Why do you seem unhappy that Grandpa will move to Capital!?"


    "It¡¯s not that I¡¯m not happy. But I¡¯m worried that if you move in with us in the capital, my uncle and father will¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t continue her sentence when she saw grandfather raise his hand, asking her to stop.


    "Bella, don¡¯t worry about them. They won¡¯t trouble you if they know I¡¯m with you." Old Donovan smiled.


    "I doubt it, grandpa. They will come if they find out about Dax. I want to live where they don¡¯t know..." she said softly.


    Bella plans to live in a secret place with high security so that her family can¡¯t come at any time and abuse her again. If they came, she wouldn¡¯t stay silent this time. She didn¡¯t want her relationship with them to worsen.


    "Don¡¯t worry. They don¡¯t know about my home in Little Heaven. Even you don¡¯t know, right?"


    Bella nodded. She had never heard of her grandfather owning property there.


    In the past, when she was still in the capital, she heard that Little Heaven was a luxury residential complex with high security ¡ª only residents could enter that area.


    "You will be safe there, Bella. Besides, I will punish them if they try to hurt you again," he promised.


    When Old Donovan saw that Bella wasn¡¯t saying anything, he continued, "Bella... I¡¯m doing this for Dax. Don¡¯t you realize that he actually needs a father figure in his life?"


    Bella¡¯s hands slowly clenched when she heard that. She couldn¡¯t say anything because she agreed with him.

 Chapter 45: Exposed

    "Bella... I¡¯m doing this for Dax. Don¡¯t you realize he needs a man figure in his life!?"


    Bella¡¯s hands slowly clenched when she heard that. She couldn¡¯t say anything because she agreed with him.


    Old Donovan continued, "You can see how quickly Dax became friendly with me. We just looked at each other; he immediately opened up to me. At first, I was amazed, but later, I realized he needed a figure man to chat with. To play with and learn."


    Bella was a little surprised. He knew this because they lived in a remote village in Northern Sweden, and no neighbors were around Dax¡¯s age. He spends his time just with Noora and her. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, Bella understood why Dax showed his warm expression more often whenever Sean visited them.


    "So, don¡¯t think about other people who are not important in your life, but just focus and think about Dax, your son," Old Donovan said. "Do you understand what I mean, right?"


    "Y-Yes."


    "So, you agree if I come with you to move to the capital?"


    Without saying anything, Bella nodded while holding back her tears. She felt angry at herself for not being sensitive enough to let Dax meet more people his age and the rest of the family because she was too afraid that Sinclair would find out about him. She was too selfish, only thinking about herself.


    Seeing Bella¡¯s slightly red face and remaining silent, Old Donovan continued his sentence, "It¡¯s okay, my dear Bella... I know... raising a child is not an easy thing. You have done an extraordinary thing for him so far."


    "Thanks, Grandpa," Bella said softly while deeply breathing.


    "Okay, you rest for a while. I¡¯ll ask Nick or Noora to call you for lunch later."


    ****


    Dax walked behind Noora as they climbed up to the second floor of the building.


    They turned into a long corridor that resembled a standard hotel hallway, with doors lining both sides.


    At the end of the corridor, a large glass window overlooked a vast expanse of flat terrain blanketed in snow.


    He calmly walks, but his eyes narrow, looking at Noora¡¯s back.


    Before they reached the end of the corridor, he asked, "Why did you bring me here?" He asked with a deadpan expression.


    Noora stopped in her tracks. She turned to see Dax behind her. A warm smile framed her face before saying, "Young Master, I want you to choose your room before I unpack."


    "You don¡¯t have to pretend, grandma. "I know you lured me here for a reason," Dax said calmly, still narrowing his eyes at her. "Why?"


    Noora, "¡­"


    She didn¡¯t believe this intelligent young man could guess it correctly. It was true; she only made an excuse because Young Miss needed to talk to Old Master.


    "Okay, which room do you want, Young Master?" Noora asked. She was trying to ignore Dax¡¯s question. "Hurry up, young master... choose. I must unpack your suitcase because I have to go to the kitchen to help the chef prepare lunch." She made another excuse.


    Dax shook his head slowly. He knew Noora had lied to him, but he pushed the matter aside; this must have been his mother¡¯s orders.


    He pointed to the room at the end of the corridor and walked there. He entered without waiting for Noora.


    Sitting casually on the sofa with his legs crossed, Dax¡¯s eyes were still watching Noora, who was busy arranging his clothes in the cupboard.


    When he saw her finished, Dax called Noora to sit with him.


    Noora knew this young master was intelligent; she couldn¡¯t lie to him. She calmly sat on the sofa opposite him and flashed a faint smile.


    "Grandma, since I was little, you always taught me not to lie. Have you forgotten?"


    Noora, "..."


    ¡¯Heavens, now I¡¯m falling into my own grave!¡¯ She silently scolds herself for creating such an unreasonable excuse.


    "Y-Yes. So?"


    "Did my mother ask you, right?" Dax asked casually.


    "Hahaha, the Young Master was so smart; how could you guess it right?"


    "I just know from your expression," He said.


    "Alright, I will not lie to you. It was your mother who asked me to take you upstairs."


    "Why?"


    "I don¡¯t know. You can ask her later. Alright, your things have been unpacked. If you need anything, just call me." Noora stood up and smiled at him before walking to the door.


    Even though he was curious about her mother¡¯s reason, he decided not to ask Noora again. "Thank you, Grandma."


    Suddenly, Noora¡¯s steps stopped before she opened the door. She turned to see Dax. "Young master, can you stop calling me that way?"


    "Why? I used to call you that..."


    "It feels bad that you called old master Grandpa. How can I be equal to him?"


    While they were still in Sweden, she didn¡¯t mind if Dax called her that way because no one knew them there.


    "Equal? ??Why do you feel like that, Grandma? You and Grandpa are the same; you two are equal in my eyes to be called Grandpa and Grandma¡ª" Dax asked. His thick eyebrows knit together. He seemed to dislike hearing Noora¡¯s words and reduced her status to that of a nanny or maid.


    Noora was confused, looking at Dax,


    ¡¯Did I say it wrong? Why he looks so angry now?¡¯ She wondered.


    "It¡¯s fine, Grandma... Gramps will understand if I call you that way. No worries¡ª" Dax said while standing from his seat. He walked toward the study table to check his iPad.


    Suddenly, Noora smiled when she realized something. She said, "Y-Young Master, I mean..."


    Dax turned to see the door, only to find Noora still there, smiling. "Yes?" he asked.


    "Well, Old Master is an old man. But me? I¡¯m only in my mid-forties. I¡¯d feel as old as Old Master if you called me Grandma." Noora grinned. "Okay, I¡¯ll go now," she said as she closed the bedroom door.


    Dax could only shake his head while taking his iPad and sitting on the sofa.


    However, a few minutes passed, and a soft knock on the door could be heard.


    "Dax, may I come in?"

 Chapter 46: Entangle With Two Powerful Family

    Dax could only shake his head while taking his iPad and sitting on the sofa. However, a few minutes passed, and a soft knock on the door could be heard.


    "Dax, may I come in?"


    He frowned, hearing his mother¡¯s voice.


    ¡¯Has she finished talking with Gramps?¡¯ He wondered while glancing at the door.


    "Yes, Mom. Come on in."


    "Hi, Dax. What have you been up to? Are you playing a game?" Bella asked when she saw him on the sofa with an iPad in his hand.


    "Hmm," he said calmly and showed the iPad screen to her. "I play chess online."


    "Oh, are you learning to play chess so you can play with gramps?" Bella asked while sitting on the couch. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No. Not really. I¡¯m just bored waiting here."


    "Huh¡­ really? And why is that? Is it because you don¡¯t like this room? Do you want to move to another room?"


    Dax sighed deeply before saying, "No reason, really. And Mom, the room is fine. By the way, I thought you were sending me to my room because you wanted to talk alone with Gramps. Why are you here already?"


    His gaze returned to focus on his iPad. Seeing the ID name bitter_coffee, his gaming friend now plays online chess with him. This bitter_coffee movement made him angry.


    ¡¯Why couldn¡¯t he hold five steps? Tsk! As the days went by, playing with him became less and less fun.¡¯ He vents his anger inwardly.


    Dax decided to log out; he didn¡¯t want to play again. He typed something on the game chat.


    [X4D] Got to go!!


    [Bitter_Coffee] So fast? C¡¯mon. What about one more match?


    [X4D] Nah! Not until you upgrade your skills. Playing with you starting to bore me, bro!


    [Bitter_Coffee] TF!


    [X4D] TTYL!


    Dax turns off his iPad and places it on his lap.


    Bella was speechless when she heard his words.


    "Haha, so you know? Did Grandma Noora tell you that?"


    "No. I can tell just by looking at your gaze, Mom."


    "Ah, I¡¯m sorry, Dax. I really needed time to talk to your Great-Grandpa alone. That¡¯s why I asked Noora to bring you here." Bella couldn¡¯t hide anything from him if he started demanding answers.


    This was why Bella was thankful Dax never asked about his father. She would have told him about Tristan if he had asked him long ago.


    "Mommy..." Dax¡¯s face turned serious when he saw Bella. "You can ask me nicely, Mom. If you say so, I¡¯ll give you some time alone with Gramps, no problem..." He smiled.


    Bella, "..."


    "Really? But you didn¡¯t even listen to me when I asked you to sit alone!" Bella wanted to say that, but she held it in. Instead, she said, "Okay, Dax. Thank you. By the way, do you like this place?" She changed the subject, not wanting to discuss what she was discussing with her grandfather.


    "Yeah. This place is similar to our cabin in Sweden. So, I like the view. And there¡¯s Grandpa too..." The light in his eyes shone.


    "I¡¯m glad you like it here. Did you know you can go fishing with great-grandpa after lunch? The frozen lake has lots of fish. I think you¡¯ll love it..." Bella remembered her son always going fishing every winter with Noora on the lake behind their cabin.


    "Yeah. I know that. Gramps already told me," He slightly nods and smiles.


    "Alright, I will go to my room. You can continue to play your game. And, remember, we will have lunch in an hour." Bella said and left.


    ****


    After a warm and delicious lunch, Dax and Old Donovan went fishing on the frozen lake behind the villa. Bella stayed in her room, engrossed in reading documents about business maps in Astington that Jack had sent.


    Bella started reading about the business situation in this country because several years had passed since she was no longer active in that field due to being a housewife. So, there were a lot of changes going on, and she needed to learn about them before she could start working.


    "Wow... a lot has happened in the last nine years, huh?" Bella muttered, reading the list of this country¡¯s top five giant corporations, which has now changed.


    First place is still Sinclair Corp after they replaced Spencer Group from the number one position. Spencer slipped to second place because they were now more focused on politics and the military.


    In other words, two families rule this country. The Sinclair family rules business affairs, while Spencer handles political and military affairs.


    Bella gets goosebumps when she realizes she has become entangled with these two powerful families. Tristan Sinclair was her Ex-Husband, and Sean Spencer was her future.


    Sigh!


    However, what surprised Bella was the new companies, Dream Inc. and Wilson Group. These two new companies are now in the top five.


    Dream Inc. is in third place, while Wilson Group is fifth on the list. She knew about them; this company is owned by an influential young couple, Evan Collins and Rose Spencer. *


    Bella is interested in Rose Spencer because she is Sean¡¯s long-lost cousin and now become the owner of Wilson Group.


    "What a genius! They are now ranked in the Top Five," Bella was amazed.


    Bella is scanning the company list, looking for their company position. What she saw shocked her.


    "What the heck!? Who the hell did Jack put in charge of the company here? More than five years, but they¡¯re not even in the top 25!?"


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration when she read Quantum Capital on the 27 ranks in the list.


    "Gosh!! Is this the reason Jack forced me to immediately return to managing the company and bring Quantum Capital up the ranks?" She could only shake her head, amused by their company¡¯s poor performance.


    Bella continued to read about the company¡¯s plans for the next five years.


    "Jack, Jack... Now, give me a target to get our company into the top 10 in five years?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh when she thought Jack was punishing her for lazing around too long.


    How troublesome!


    ****


    * An: You can read about Rose Wilson and Evan Collins in my book, Rebirth: Dancing In My Destiny.

 Chapter 47: Unexpected Guests

    Bella continued to read all the data that Jack sent. But not long after, she heard Noora¡¯s voice from outside.


    "Come in," Bella looking towards the door. She was taken aback when she saw Noora¡¯s face as pale as a sheet of paper. Concerned that something terrible had happened, she quickly put down her iPad and hurried to stand beside her.


    "Aunty, why do you look like you¡¯ve seen a ghost?" She asked.


    "M-Miss... Someone is looking for you," Noora¡¯s voice trembled while she held Bella¡¯s hand.


    "Someone looking for me!?" Bella was confused.


    How could someone know she was in this house? However, a moment later, something crossed her mind ¡ª only one person could make Noora super nervous like this. It was Tristan Sinclair.


    ¡¯How could Tristan know we are here!?¡¯ She wonders.


    "Yes, young miss. Mr. Sinclair, he is in the living room..."


    Bella¡¯s heart dropped when she heard that. What she guessed was correct.


    "How could Tristan find us this fast!?" She can¡¯t meet him now.


    "Young M-Miss¡ª"


    Bella interrupted, "Auntie, I know¡­ this must be my shameless uncle! They must have contacted Tristan and made another business deal. They sold information about me to Tristan; that¡¯s why he could find me this fast!" Bella felt furious. "If they really do that, I will never forget them." She gritted her teeth.


    "Young Miss, you misunderstood. I mean, the one looking for you is not Tristan Sinclair, but Old Sinclair," Noora explained quickly, worried that Bella would complain to her uncle.


    Bella was rendered speechless.


    "Gosh!! Aunty, you should tell me clearly," She took a deep breath, relieved.


    "Miss, I tried to tell you, but you interrupted me."


    Bella, "..."


    She walked out of the room, her heart beating even faster. Meeting Grandpa Sinclair for the first time since leaving the family made her nervous.


    However, before Bella reached the stairs, she stopped and looked at Noora.


    "Is he coming to meet Grandpa or me?" She asked.


    Noora silently swallowed because she had made a mistake. She was not supposed to open the door, but because Nick asked her, she opened it when someone rang the bell.


    When she opened the door, Noora was shocked to see Old Sinclair. How could she lie to him when he clearly remembered that she was Bella¡¯s maid?


    "He was actually looking for Old Master, but when he saw me, he asked to see you. Sorry, Young Miss..." Noora said apologetically.


    "It¡¯s okay, Auntie. My grandfather probably already told him about our return. I¡¯m just surprised he came so soon. I thought he wouldn¡¯t show up until tomorrow." Bella smile.


    "Thank God I didn¡¯t do anything wrong, like telling him to go away," Noora felt relieved.


    "It¡¯s fine. Even if you make a mistake, it doesn¡¯t matter, too."


    "You¡¯re right," Noora smiled as she followed Bella to the first floor, but she didn¡¯t join her in the living room. She excused herself to go to the lake to join Dax and the others.


    ¡­


    When Bella reached the living room, she saw a man with white hair and broad shoulders sitting on the sofa with his back facing her. Looking at his back, she knew the old man was Lewis Sinclair.


    Bella composes herself before heading to the seating area.


    "G-Grandpa¡ª" She greeted him gently. But the moment she met his gaze, all the words she wanted to say suddenly stuck in her throat.


    Lewis Sinclair stood from his seat in shock. Within a few seconds, they just stared at each other without anyone speaking.


    "My lord! Bella, so it is true that you have finally returned¡­" Lewis Sinclair¡¯s voice trembled. Even though he had heard from Isaac Donovan and Tristan about Bella¡¯s return, he still doubted them. He needed to confirm it with his own eyes.


    "Yes," Bella said faintly while smiling.


    "That¡¯s good." Lewis Sinclair smiled back. He felt delighted. This was what he had always really hoped for ¡ª Bella¡¯s return. He needed to meet her in person and apologize for what his family had done to her.


    Later,


    After Lewis Sinclair sat back down, Bella lowered her head slightly and apologized for leaving without saying anything to him.


    "No, dear... Don¡¯t say that. It¡¯s not your fault. As a matter of fact, it¡¯s our fault for hurting you," Lewis¡¯s voice sounded sincere. "Whatever my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson did to you, I sincerely apologize from the bottom of my heart." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing how Lewis Sinclair said those words made Bella¡¯s heart feel warm.


    In the past, she harbored anger towards her in-laws and Tristan, desiring revenge for their actions. However, after giving birth to Dax, that idea vanished from her mind.


    "Grandpa, I appreciate and feel touched by what you did, defending me and punishing them on my behalf. But that¡¯s all in the past. I¡¯ve forgotten everything," said Bella, trying to hold back her gloomy expression.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to remember those painful memories again and wanted to show Lewis Sinclair that she was okay.


    Now, she wants to move on and start a new direction, becoming an independent woman.


    Lewis Donovan didn¡¯t utter anything but could only nod and agree with her.


    "Grandpa, I hear you move here to punish them for what they have done and are doing to me¡ª"


    "Wait, who told you that?" Lewis Sinclair interrupted her.


    "My grandpa."


    Lewis can¡¯t help but vent his frustration to Isaac in his mind. How dare he tell Bella something so personal?


    "Grandpa, please stop punishing them and return to capital, hmm? Your family will blame me even more if you stay here."


    "Hahaha¡­" Lewis suddenly laughs, confusing Bella. "Oh dear, no one will dare to blame you. If they do, I will kick them from the Sinclair family."


    His words amused Bella. But she said nothing because she didn¡¯t want this gloomy feeling to ruin her mood.


    After his laugh subsided, Lewis Sinclair asked, "How long will you stay in this country?"


    He was worried that Bella would only stay in the country for a short time and his grandson wouldn¡¯t have the chance to apologize to her and pursue her again.

 Chapter 48: Meet Dax

    Lewis Sinclair asked, "How long will you stay in this country?"


    He was worried that Bella would only stay in the country for a short time and his grandson wouldn¡¯t have the chance to apologize to her and pursue her again.


    "I will not go anywhere, Grandpa. My plan is to settle in the capital."


    "Oh? I didn¡¯t know that." Lewis Sinclair was surprised. He thought Bella would no longer return to the capital and stay in this province with her family.


    "Yes. I¡¯m only here for about a week." She didn¡¯t want to hide anything from Grandpa Sinclair, afraid he would be disappointed again.


    Bella also wanted this old man to stop punishing his family and hide in this remote place. She worried something terrible had happened to him because he was no longer young.


    A frown appeared on Lewis¡¯s forehead as if he was thinking about something, knowing that Bella would return to the capital.


    "And for that reason, I asked you to return to the capital. There¡¯s no point in you staying here alone, and you won¡¯t have any friends to talk to, either."


    Lewis was a little confused to hear Bella¡¯s words. Still, when he remembered his promise to Tristan ¡ª he would return if Tristan could bring Bella to their family ¡ª he shook his head. He had to stay here; if he returned now, Tristan wouldn¡¯t rush after Bella.


    Lewis smiled warmly before saying calmly, "It¡¯s okay, Bella. All of them won¡¯t learn anything if I go back now. I¡¯ll just stay here for a few years and then return to the capital."


    Trying to convince him to return to the capital is pointless if he doesn¡¯t want to. Therefore, Bella puts that aside and can only wish him good health during his stay in the village.


    "No need to worry about me, my dear. I won¡¯t be lonely here; I have Alan and my best friend, Isaac. You know your Grandpa also decided to stay in this village, right?" Lewis asked.


    Bella was taken aback by what she heard. Her Grandpa had not informed Lewis about his intention to move with them.


    Observing how delighted Grandpa Lewis was that his best friend would stay in this village, Bella began to feel sorry for him.


    "Grandpa Sinclair, my Grandpa, decided to move to the capital with us..." Bella faintly said.


    Suddenly, the light in Lewis Sinclair¡¯s eyes slowly dimmed when he heard the news. "Is what you said true? Why didn¡¯t Isaac tell me anything?" The disappointment is clearly heard in his voice.


    "Yes, Grandpa. Maybe because he just decided this morning, he didn¡¯t have a chance to inform you."


    "By the way, where is Isaac? Why hasn¡¯t he joined us yet?" Lewis felt strange because his friend, who usually welcomed him, had been nowhere to be seen since he had entered the house.


    "Did he go somewhere?" he asked again but dismissed that idea instantly because he saw Isaac¡¯s car still parked outside.


    Without Bella realizing it, her hands, resting on her lap, slowly clenched into fists. She was nervous about where to start explaining to him about Dax.


    "Isaac, really return to the city?" Lewis fixed his gaze on Bella.


    She shook her head, "No. He was fishing at the lake."


    "Unbelievable!" Lewis Sinclair was amused. "That old geezer, how could he immediately go fishing in this cold temperature right after he was discharged from the hospital?"


    Lewis decided to join Isaac on the lake and would talk to Bella later. "Bella, I¡¯d like to invite you to dinner at my place tomorrow. I hope you won¡¯t refuse."


    Despite her worry that she will encounter Tristan there, she still nods at him. "I will come, Grandpa."


    "Perfect, my dear..." Lewis got ready to stand up, wanting to catch up with Isaac at the lake. "We can continue talking again tomorrow; I need to scold Isaac."


    "Grandpa, please stay. There¡¯s something I want to ask you¡ª" Bella stopped him. She had not yet finished talking to him.


    Lewis was surprised; he sat again and looked at Bella, "Yes, dear?" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, I hope you don¡¯t tell Tristan or anyone else about my arrival in this country," Bella asked seriously, which left Lewis a little stunned.


    Lewis also heard Isaac warning him about this matter when he called him yesterday, but hearing the words directly from her made him worry ¡ª his grandson¡¯s chance to win Bella¡¯s heart was thin as paper.


    "Do you hate him so much that you don¡¯t want to meet him again?" Sadness could be heard in his voice, followed by a deep, heavy breath.


    "I¡¯m just not ready to meet him. I¡ª" She opened her mouth to continue her words, but somehow, her words just vanished. She feels blank. How annoying!


    "Oh, my dear Bella... There¡¯s no need to explain. I can understand and agree with your request," Lewis said softly. Even though he was actually disappointed with Bella¡¯s refusal to meet his grandson, he didn¡¯t want to force her. It was still too early. As long as Bella stays in this country, his grandson will still have plenty of time to approach her again.


    Bella feels relieved.


    "And... there¡¯s something else I want to tell you, Grandpa."


    "Yes, what is it, my dear?"


    "I actually have¡ª"


    "Mommy..." Suddenly, Dax¡¯s voice could be heard from behind, and his step rushed to the living room.


    Bella was shocked. She looked in the direction of the backdoor and saw her chubby little son running to her while bringing a small bucket.


    "Look... look... I catch a few fish. I win, mommy... Gramps lose¡ª" Dax paused when he saw someone else in the room. He was slightly stunned when his eyes met the older man¡¯s deep blue eyes staring back at him.


    Dax frowned before he turned his gaze at his mother.


    Bella was speechless.


    "B-Bella, who is this¡ª" Lewis, who was still shocked to hear a boy calling Bella Mommy, was even more shocked when he saw that the boy looked familiar with someone he knew.


    Bella smiled faintly at Old Sinclair before she wanted to answer him. She felt Dax¡¯s small hand holding her hand.


    "Mom, I need to talk to you. Please¡ª"

 Chapter 49: Dax Knows About His Father

    Bella smiled faintly at Old Sinclair before she wanted to answer him. She felt Dax¡¯s small hand holding her hand.


    "Mom, I need to talk to you. Please¡ª"


    Bella had no choice but to nod and excuse herself to Lewis. She followed Dax to the library.


    After Bella closed the door behind her, she focused on Dax. She was curious why he suddenly needed to talk to her.


    "Mommy, why is Mr. Lewis Sinclair meeting you?"


    Bella was shocked to hear his question.


    How on earth did Dax know about Lewis Sinclair!?


    "Y-You know who that old man outside!?" Bella asked again to make sure she didn¡¯t hear wrong.


    "Yeah. He is Lewis Sinclair, Tristan Sinclair¡¯s grandfather," Dax answered calmly. However, Bella almost tripped over her own feet when she heard his words.


    ¡¯He even knows his father¡¯s name? How!?¡¯ Bella held the door behind her to ensure she stood firm while trying to hide her surprise.


    "Why do you look so surprised, Mom?"


    "Let¡¯s sit down first..." Bella said and walked towards the seating area. She asked Dax to sit next to her.


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately ask him but calmly looked at his expression. She wanted to check whether he already knew or pretended not to know about his father¡¯s identity. But after a few seconds, she didn¡¯t get any clues.


    "How do you know about The Sinclair Family?"


    "Mom, everyone knows who the Sinclair family is. They are a famous family. Their faces and names appear on national television and any media in this country countless times, " he explained.


    ¡¯So, he didn¡¯t know...¡¯ Bella thought Dax already knew Tristan was his father.


    "Why are you suddenly interested to know about them?" She asked.


    "Because you said my father was a businessman, and he came from this country. Coincidentally, when I was reading something on my iPad, Tristan Sinclair¡¯s news appeared in several articles I read. So, yeah, I know about him quite a lot."


    "And?"


    Dax sighed deeply before saying, "I think that man is not my father. But, I was surprised to see his grandpa outside, and you seem to know him."


    Bella clenched her hands slightly before asking, "Why do you think Tristan Sinclair is not your father?"


    "How could Tristan Sinclair be my father if he never got married?" Dax asked. He didn¡¯t wait for her to answer his question. He turned his gaze towards the window to hide his disappointment.


    Dax didn¡¯t want his mother to see his sadness ¡ª afraid it would make her feel bad.


    However, Bella had already seen it. She could only laugh bitterly in her heart; what Dax said was true. They never announced their marriage, and no one will believe if they ever married.


    "Dax, can you see me?" Bella said softly. When her son looked at her, she continued. "Do you want to know who your father is?"


    "If you¡¯re willing to tell me, yes," he said with an incurious expression. But in his heart, he was looking forward to this. His mother had finally told him without him asking.


    "Tristan Sinclair is your father, and the older man out there is Lewis Sinclair, your great-grandfather¡ª" Bella paused to look at his expression. When she saw Dax¡¯s deadpan expression, it worried her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Dax if I told you this late. There are so many things that make me hide this from you..." She explained more.


    Dax still didn¡¯t say anything; he just stared back at her calmly. Causing Bella even more worry. She took his hand. Suddenly, her heart raced when she felt how cold his hand was.


    "Dax, are you okay?" Bella asked worriedly, placing her palm on his forehead to check his temperature. She felt relieved when her body temperature remained normal.


    "I¡¯m fine, mom. Don¡¯t worry." Dax said while smiling at her. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You already know about your father. How do you feel?" Bella asked carefully while looking into his calm eyes.


    "Mom, I don¡¯t know how I feel now because there is still something I¡¯m curious about," Dax said. "Why did the news that I read on the internet state that Tristan Sinclair never married? Am I an illegitimate and unwanted child?"


    Bella felt heartbroken hearing his question.


    "You are his son, and don¡¯t assume he doesn¡¯t want you. He is willing to do anything to get a child," she said honestly. Tristan is even willing to have another woman in order to have children. How could he not want Dax?? If he knew, he wouldn¡¯t let her go.


    She continued, "Why is there no media coverage of our marriage? Because we agreed not to publicize it, only our immediate family knows about our marriage."


    "I see," Dax said softly.


    Bella was worried to see Dax¡¯s calm attitude. Even adults show their emotions in such situations, but Dax doesn¡¯t seem to care.


    "My Son... can you tell me what you feel right now? Please, for once, express your feelings to me, huh!? I mean... all this time, you always shut down your emotions, and it makes me¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t continue her sentence because suddenly Dax buried himself in her arms.


    "M-Momm..." His voice trembles and softs.


    She hugged Dax tightly, holding back her emotions. It was the first time he hugged her without her asking.


    "I love you..." Bella whispered while holding back her tears. She feels blissful.


    They hugged each other in silence, lost in their own thoughts.


    After a while, Bella heard him speak.


    "I¡¯m happy to know that I have a father," Dax¡¯s voice sounded soft. "But, I¡¯m also angry. Why did he divorce you? If he doesn¡¯t want you, it means he doesn¡¯t want me either. I hate him!"


    Bella was taken aback. She was slowly releasing her embrace. Then, she placed her hands on his shoulders and gently urged him to look at her.


    "Dax, when your father and I decided to divorce, he didn¡¯t know about you, neither did I. And when I found out I was pregnant, it was too late because we had already signed our divorce papers. So, don¡¯t hate him because your father and all his family didn¡¯t know about you."


    Dax didn¡¯t say anything but was relieved to know his father wasn¡¯t some jerk who didn¡¯t want him.


    "But there¡¯s something you should know. I don¡¯t have a good relationship with your father¡¯s parents. They hate me," Bella told him.


    Dax frowned, "What about my father? Was he mean to you, too?"

 Chapter 50: Overwhelming Emotions

    "But there¡¯s something you should know. I don¡¯t have a good relationship with your father¡¯s parents. They hate me," Bella told him.


    Dax frowned, "What about my father? Was he mean to you, too?"


    "No. Your father was never mean to me, but he ignored me and didn¡¯t love me..." Bella wanted to say that, but of course, she couldn¡¯t. She wasn¡¯t the type of woman who would speak ill of her child¡¯s father.


    Bella smiled at him before saying, "Your father is a nice person. However, we¡¯re just not right for each other¡ª" she paused to take a deep breath. "I¡¯m sorry, Dax. I can¡¯t tell you more details about why we divorced. I hope you can understand..." She ruffled his hair gently.


    "Mom, I understand," Dax said, lifting his chubby little hand and holding hers. He tapped it gently and smiled at it. "No need to explain anything, mom..."


    Bella felt warm inside when she saw how cute Dax looked now. "Thank you, darling... You are so kind and sweet. I love you."


    He smiles back at her through his gaze.


    "I forgot to tell you. The old man outside is your great-grandpa... He is very kind to me and always protects me. He is also your grandfather¡¯s best friend..."


    Bella continued explaining about the Sinclair family to Dax.


    ****


    While Bella and Dax were chatting in the library, Isaac Donovan sat across from Lewis Sinclair in the living room. Several minutes passed, but his best friend didn¡¯t say a word. Lewis just stared at him with a pale, shocked expression.


    Isaac knows that Lewis has seen Dax. He predicts that Lewis will recognize Dax with only a slight glance.


    Earlier, when he was fishing on the frozen lake behind the Villa, he didn¡¯t expect Lewis to visit and chat with Bella in the living room. When he found out Lewis was visiting his house, it was too late; Dax had already run inside to show Bella his fish.


    Now, he waited for Lewis to ask about Dax, but this guy didn¡¯t ask anything. He looked like he was turning into a statue, sitting still without moving. He would look like a mannequin if only his eyelashes weren¡¯t blinking.


    Isaac could see himself in Lewis¡¯s position when he discovered that Bella had Tristan¡¯s child. He was very shocked and sad to imagine what Bella was going through ¡ª pregnant alone, giving birth alone, far from family.


    Just the thought of all that Bella had gone through made Isaac extremely upset. He wanted to scold Tristan and his parents for how they had treated her. However, his anger towards Tristan slowly faded when he saw Dax this morning. He forgot everything else and just wanted to spend time with Dax.


    He is too old to dwell on the past. All he wants now is to live peacefully with his granddaughter and Dax.


    "Lewis, if you don¡¯t say anything in one minute, I¡¯ll assume you¡¯re paralyzed. I¡¯ll call an ambulance and take you to the hospital." Isaac said while narrowing his eyes at Lewis.


    .


    .


    .


    .


    "Alright, my friend, I will call an ambulance¡ª"


    "Isaac, tell me¡­" Lewis finally said something. Looking at Isaac, his eyes were filled with emotions that were hard to describe.


    "Why does that young man¡¯s face look familiar?" Lewis continued with his voice slightly trembling. "The young boy... he¡­ he looks similar to Tr¡ª" He couldn¡¯t finish his words. It was hard for him to believe that the little boy was Tristan¡¯s son.


    "Indeed, my friend. What you are thinking was right. That young boy earlier was Tristan and Bella¡¯s son. His name is Daxton, and he is now four years old." Isaac explained. His expression turned gloomy again, remembering how hard Bella raised her child alone.


    Lewis rubbed his face with his palm. He was too shocked to hear Isaac¡¯s words.


    Countless questions now swirl in his mind. How could Tristan divorce Bella when she was pregnant? What happened that time? Did Tristan know about her pregnancy!?


    Lewis fixed his eyes again on Isaac. He asked, "Isaac, why did you never tell me about Dax?" His voice sounded shaking, and he felt disappointed with his friend for hiding this vital information from him.


    "I know about Daxton yesterday and met him in person this morning. Bella never mentioned anything about him, and she hides it so well that only she and Noora know about him."


    "Is this the reason Bella decided to move to another country? To give birth to Daxton?"


    "Yes. And, because your useless grandson and son kicked her out of your family. So, she didn¡¯t have a chance to move to another country and give birth in peace." Isaac feels angry talking about this again.


    If the man in front of him were Tristan, Isaac would have slapped beat him hard for what he did to Bella. He hoped that Tristan would never appear before him anytime soon or he would never restrain his anger from beating him!


    Lewis couldn¡¯t say anything. He felt angry with Tristan. How could that useless brat divorce Bella when she was pregnant? He was so stupid! sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Isaac¡ª" These were the only words that could escape Lewis¡¯ lips. He wants to call Tristan now and scold him, but he already promised Bella not to say anything.


    "Lewis, I¡¯m tired of hearing you say those words. Please stop! It¡¯s our fault for making such a stupid vow to become family and let them marry." Isaac said.


    "You¡¯re right. It¡¯s our fault!" Lewis couldn¡¯t deny that. Again, he could only take a deep breath.


    Silence hung in the air as Lewis Sinclair and Isaac Donovan were lost in their own thoughts.


    ...


    At the same time, Bella and Dax had finished talking heart to heart, and now they were both holding hands, walking towards the living room to join their elder.


    However,


    Bella and Dax stopped near the seating area. They looked at each other after seeing Lewis and Isaac sitting quietly, lost in thought. The atmosphere in the living room felt cold and dark as if the two elders had just had a big fight.


    "Mom, are they fighting? Why do their expressions look terrible?" Dax whisper.

 Chapter 51: Emptiness

    The atmosphere in the living room felt cold and dark as if the two elders had just had a big fight.


    "Mom, are they fighting? Why do their expressions look terrible?" Dax whisper.


    Bella shook her head. She didn¡¯t understand either why the tension around them was so high.


    "I¡¯m not so sure. Let¡¯s find out," Bella said as she continued to walk.


    Bella tried to get the two old men¡¯s attention by clearing her throat slightly, hoping they would know about her presence. However, they did not respond to it in any way. It seemed they were still in a trance.


    Despite Bella and Dax sitting on a two-seater sofa, the two old men seemed oblivious to their presence.


    She was speechless.


    "Mom, are they okay? Why do they look like statues?" Dax asked, looking at Old Donovan and Old Sinclair in return ¡ª curious to see why they weren¡¯t moving.


    Bella smiles, hearing Dax¡¯s question. She loudly called them, "Grandpa... Grandpa Sinclair..." She slightly raises her voice. "Are you both fine?"


    Both of them jumped in surprise when they heard Bella¡¯s voice. They both looked at Bella.


    "Huh, since when are you here?" Old Donovan asked.


    "Since half an hour ago..." Bella tried to tease him.


    "Mommy, don¡¯t lie to Grandpa," Dax corrected her. He glanced at his Grandpa and said, "We just join you, Gramps." He smiled, then turned his gaze at Lewis Sinclair.


    Before Dax could say anything, Bella interrupted. "Dax, let me introduce you..." she said, then looked at Lewis Sinclair. "Grandpa, this is my son. His name is Daxton," Bella said, gazing at Dax. "This is your great-grandpa on your father¡¯s side. Go greet him..."


    Dax stood up from his seat and walked over to Lewis. "Hello, Great-Grandpa... My name is Daxton. You can call me Dax, and I¡¯m four years old now." He extended his chubby hand towards Lewis, intending to shake hands.


    However, Lewis couldn¡¯t help himself. He pulled Dax into his arms and hugged him to express his happiness.


    His dream is to see Bella and Tristan¡¯s child before he dies. A dream he had buried five years ago when his grandson divorced Bella.


    He no longer hoped that Tristan would give him great-grandchildren, but now, unexpectedly, Bella returned and made his dream come true; Dax¡¯s presence made him utterly happy. He didn¡¯t wish for anything else; this beautiful gift from God was enough for him.


    "My Dear Dax, you can drop the great and just call me grandpa..." Lewis whisper.


    "G-Grandpa," Dax¡¯s voice sounded so soft it melted Lewis¡¯ heart.


    "I¡¯m so grateful to have met you. Thank you for being born and growing up healthy like this," Lewis said while looking at Bella; he felt so grateful to her. "Thank you, Bella. You allowed me to meet him¡ª" S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she felt so touched and couldn¡¯t hold back her tears.


    After briefly speaking with Lewis about Dax, Bella left and allowed Dax to spend time with his great-grandparents while she returned to her bedroom.


    ****


    At Capital.


    A sleek black Bentley pulls up to the grand Sinclair Building on the main street of the capital¡¯s business district.


    The security personnel swiftly opened the car door as Tristan Sinclair stepped out, prompting the guard to lower his head respectfully.


    Tristan, looking handsome in his gray suit, strides through the empty office lobby that night as he heads towards the executive elevator.


    Since his divorce from Bella, Tristan hasn¡¯t returned to their marital home. Instead, he¡¯s been living in this building for the past five years. He occupies a penthouse on the 40th floor and has an office on the 39th floor.


    While entering the elevator, Tristan¡¯s attention is on his cell phone, engrossed in an important email from the branch office. However, as soon as the elevator doors close automatically, something triggers his memory.


    Tristan slowly raises his head, eyeing Dylan before him. "When can we expect the DNA test results?" he asked.


    "Boss, I¡¯ve requested the speed result, and we¡¯ll have them by tomorrow morning," Dylan explains.


    "Tomorrow morning? That¡¯s not speedy at all! It¡¯s been over a day, Dylan!" Tristan furrows his brow in dissatisfaction upon hearing Dylan¡¯s update.


    "Boss, this is the fastest we could manage. We might have had the results by tonight if we conducted the test at your hospital. However, doing so would risk your parents finding out¡ª" Dylan patiently explained, having made a lot of effort to speed up the process.


    He adds, "That¡¯s why I arranged the test at a different hospital. They¡¯ve assured me we¡¯ll have the results by tomorrow morning."


    Tristan fell silent, his sharp gaze showing his dissatisfaction with Dylan.


    "Boss, I¡¯ll ensure you have the results before you head to the office," Dylan promises. It seems he¡¯ll be spending the night at the hospital awaiting the DNA test result.


    "Hmm," Tristan responded before exiting the elevator.


    "Master," a white, short-haired man greets him respectfully. Tristan merely nods and proceeds to his lavish penthouse, feeling deeply sad.


    The emptiness he has felt since divorcing Bella returns to haunt him. Seeing her in person yesterday only worsened these feelings, yet he couldn¡¯t bring himself to talk to or even greet her. This feeling is really awful, and he despises it.


    "Boss, do you still need anything from me? If not, I¡¯ll excuse myself. Good night..." Dylan says after handing Tristan¡¯s bag to Geoffrey, who remains in his place, smiling at him.


    Tristan gives a slight wave in response as he heads toward his bedroom.


    "Geoffrey, boss... He¡¯s not in a good mood. Take care of him. See ya..." Dylan adds before entering the elevator once again.


    "Good night, Dylan," Geoffrey responds, then approaches Tristan. "Master, would you like to have dinner?" he asks.


    Tristan¡¯s steps halt before he opens the bedroom door; he turns to Geoffrey.


    "No. You can put my bag in my study and take a rest. I don¡¯t need anything. I¡¯ll call you if I do."


    As he gazes at his dim bedroom, Tristan¡¯s heart feels even emptier and colder, worsening his feelings. He can¡¯t wait for the DNA results because only then will he have a reason to meet her.

 Chapter 52: DNA Test Result

    As he gazes at his dim bedroom, Tristan¡¯s heart feels even emptier and colder, worsening his feelings. He can¡¯t wait for the DNA results because only then will he have a reason to meet her.


    After cleaning his body and changing into his home clothes, Tristan didn¡¯t bother to glance at his bed because his mind was still thinking about work; it was the only option for him to ignore her presence in his mind.


    Sit behind the computer, read some files, and do a few online meetings with other executives from his company in a few countries on the other side of the world.


    Tristan worked non-stop. Without realizing it, the sun slowly appeared on the horizon.


    ...


    At the same time, Dylan returned to the 40th floor, holding a white envelope in his hand.


    He was wearing the same clothes he had worn the previous night. His usually neatly combed hair looked slightly messy, and his usually fresh and clean face now appeared tired.


    "Morning, Geoffrey." Dylan greeted him with a half smile, but seeing how dashing his Boss¡¯s butler looked now, his step halted, and he gazed at him.


    Dylan couldn¡¯t help but comment. "You don¡¯t sleep? Or do you sleep dressed like this." He asked curiously. This was the first time Dylan had visited Tristan¡¯s apartment this early in the morning, and this butler was already neat in his formal black suit.


    "Morning, Dylan. Of course, I¡¯ve slept well since last night. Thank you for asking," Geoffrey smiled at him. "Why did you come early."


    A few minutes ago, Geoffrey was surprised to receive a phone call from Dylan. He said he would be here in a few minutes. Seeing him still wearing the same clothes as last night was even more surprising. Geoffrey admires this young man as a really hardworking young man.


    "Something serious happened in the office? Why did you not change?" Geoffrey asked again, gesturing for Dylan to enter the house and lead him to Tristan¡¯s study.


    "Yeah, a bit busy," Dylan sighed deeply. The entire night, he didn¡¯t sleep at all. He¡¯s staying at the hospital waiting for the DNA test result. He felt so damn tired, and now, he missed his bed. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dylan needs to put the DNA test results on Tristan¡¯s desk himself. He couldn¡¯t give it to Geoffrey because no one knew about this, only him and Max.


    "How was he last night? Did he give you trouble?" Dylan asked again, following Geoffrey towards Tristan¡¯s study.


    "Trouble?" Geoffrey was slightly confused. "Of course not. He dismissed me early last night..."


    "Tsk, Tsk... I envy you," Dylan said while yawning; he was so sleepy and hungry.


    "Thank you. You too, Dylan. You did a good job, as did Master Tristan. It seems Master hasn¡¯t come out from his study room since last night," Geoffrey said.


    Geoffrey heard Tristan still talking when he was about to clean his office early this morning. Knowing his Master had worked all night made Geoffrey worried.


    Suddenly, Dylan¡¯s steps stopped. He turned to Geoffrey. "B-Boss didn¡¯t sleep?" he was suprised. It seems his Boss is curious about the DNA test result.


    "Yes. Master Tristan has been in the study since last night. Is there any problem at the office? That¡¯s why you came so early to meet him?" Geoffrey asked. It was rare to see his Master working so hard like this; usually, he would be busy at the end of the year.


    Dylan silently gulped as his throat became dry when he heard his Boss was still awake. He could guess that Boss¡¯s mood must have worsened.


    "Ugh, Geoffrey... I have to go home now. Can you please deliver this envelope to him?" Dylan turned around after placing the envelope in Geoffrey¡¯s hand. He can¡¯t meet Tristan now. If he stays here and the results don¡¯t match Tristan¡¯s expectations, he might go berserk.


    "Wait, Dylan... are you sure you don¡¯t want to meet him?" Geoffrey confused.


    Dylan shook his head while grinning at Geoffrey; then, he ran to the elevator after giving Geoffrey the courage to stay strong.


    "What a weird young man," he chuckled, then knocked on the study door.


    "Enter!"


    Geoffrey faintly heard Tristan¡¯s voice from inside. He immediately opened the door and saw Tristan standing near a large glass wall facing the sky.


    He approached him and stopped a few steps behind, "Master, Dylan just came to deliver a letter for you."


    Tristan turned to Geoffrey with an impatient gaze. "Give me the letter," he said as he walked towards him. Holding the DNA test result, he feels highly nervous. "You may leave now. I need some time alone," he ordered.


    Geoffrey nodded slightly. He offered Tristan coffee, but Tristan quickly declined. Geoffrey said nothing else and left the room.


    ...


    Tristan sat in his chair, staring at the white envelope in his hand. After calming down, he opened it. His expression slowly changed from tense to happy once he saw the results written there.


    [Probability of paternity: 99.9999998%]


    Tristan leaned back in his chair, gazing up at the white ceiling with a wide smile. Happiness radiated from his eyes.


    "He¡¯s my boy!" His happy voice echoed in the room. "That little boy is my son¡ª"


    After four years of trying, Bella had not been able to get pregnant, so he never imagined they would have children together.


    "Wait¡ª" Tristan gasped, shocked when he realized something. Sitting straight, his cheerful facial expression suddenly turned dark, and his broad smile faded.


    "Why didn¡¯t she tell me? Why did she give up and sign the paper? Why?" Tristan asked no one, feeling confused about what had happened that time.


    After struggling for a few minutes to recall what happened five years ago, he sighed deeply. He felt the urge to slap his past self for making such a foolish decision.


    Sigh!


    Then, his gaze fell on the small cupboard near his desk. He opened it and revealed a safe deposit box. After entering a series of numbers, he took a brown envelope and took out the paper.


    "Marriage Annulment Letter¡ª" his eyes fixed on Bella¡¯s signature, and he rubbed the dry ink, feeling heartbroken.


    "At least... We are still legally married, Bella Donovan!" Tristan muttered under his breath, tearing the paper and throwing it into the iron trash can. He then burned the paper to ashes.


    ******


    A/n:


    - This is the end of Volume 1: DISAPPEARED.


    - Volume 2: RETURN will be uploaded tomorrow.


    Dear readers, I would be grateful if you could help me by writing a review and sharing your thoughts about my book. Thank you so much for your support and love!

 Chapter 53: Return To Capital

    Five Days Later.


    In the last few days of living in this village, Bella has enjoyed nature and time with her family, including Lewis Sinclair.


    Although she loved this peaceful place, her vacation ended today, and she had to return to the capital.


    Knowing she was leaving Grandpa Sinclair alone made it hard for Bella to leave. She hoped he would return with them to the capital, but she couldn¡¯t make him move.


    She had already bid him farewell yesterday, aware that Grandpa Sinclair would visit the city when they departed.


    "We need to move now, or we¡¯ll miss our flight," Isaac Donovan¡¯s voice pulled Bella from her thoughts. She nodded and entered the car. After everyone settled, Nick drove the car, left the lake-view villa, and headed toward the airport.


    Bella sat alone in the middle row, while her grandfather and Dax sat in the back row. She tried to divert her sadness by reading something on her iPad. However, it didn¡¯t take long before she became distracted by the conversation between Dax and her Grandpa.


    "Dax, are you happy we¡¯re finally moving to the Capital?" Suddenly, Isaac Donovan¡¯s voice echoes in the car as he chats with Dax.


    "Yes! I can¡¯t wait to play on the sea, Grandpa. Mommy never takes me to the sea."


    Dax¡¯s words saddened Isaac. How could this little boy never go to the beach?


    "Doesn¡¯t your mommy take you on trips?"


    Dax shook his head. "We only travel around our village, never to another city or country. My first airplane ride was when we returned from Sweden to this country."


    "Oh, dear... Don¡¯t worry. From now on, Gramps will take you wherever you want," Isaac said, glancing at Bella. "You should take him on vacation more often. If you¡¯re busy, let me go with him."


    Bella, "..."


    She couldn¡¯t believe her son was exposing her again like he usually did these past few days, talking so much to her Grandpa.


    "Sure, Grandpa. We will travel a lot..." Bella answered with a smile. She let them continue chatting while reading some crucial files on her iPad.


    Not long after, their car arrived at the airport.


    Bella was surprised Nick had driven their vehicle to a private airport instead of the supposed commercial airport. She saw several jet parks in the distance, making her immediately realize that they would be using private planes, not commercial planes.


    She looked at Nick with a confused look, "Do you realize you took the wrong airport, Nick? I remember I didn¡¯t book a private jet¡ª"


    "No, young miss. This is the correct airport." Nick explained.


    Before Bella could say anything, Isaac interrupted, "We¡¯re at the correct airport, Bella. Someone offered me the use of his jet..."


    Bella started to feel uneasy hearing her Grandpa¡¯s words and turned to look at him.


    "Who? Why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner?" She wouldn¡¯t have needed to spend money on a commercial plane ticket if she knew they¡¯d be flying on a jet.


    "You¡¯ll see him later¡ª" Isaac replied, flashing a mysterious smile.


    Bella, "..."


    She had no choice but to follow them to the white jet parked a few meters from their car.


    ...


    "Wow! Grandpa has a rich friend?" Dax, who was walking in front of Noora, asked excitedly.


    Noora leaned closer, her head to Dax¡¯s, and whispered, "Did you forget who your grandpa¡¯s best friend is?"


    Dax was silent momentarily before gasping, realizing who his Grandpa¡¯s friend was. It was his Grandpa from his father¡¯s side.


    How could he forget they are super rich?


    He no longer said anything, but the look in his eyes clearly showed that he was both amazed and worried that the jet in front of him belonged to his father, whom he had never seen before.


    Since Dax knew about Tristan Sinclair, he searched for information about him almost every night, and the more Dax read about Tristan, the more his hatred toward him grew. Gossip media always wrote that he had many girlfriends, and they even said Tristan Sinclair was a playboy.


    After reading those articles, Dax realized why his mother divorced his father ¡ª he had been unfaithful.


    Suddenly, Dax¡¯s face looked anxious. He glanced back to see his mother walking behind.


    ¡¯Will Mom be okay if Father is on that plane?¡¯ Dax thought as he continued following Noora entering the jet. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Bella was nervous.


    She was worried that she would meet Tristan on the plane.


    Even though Bella knew she couldn¡¯t avoid Tristan forever, at least he didn¡¯t show up today when Dax was with them.


    "Grandpa, why did you use his jet without telling me?" Bella sounded disappointed. She feels her Grandpa betrayed her by communicating with Tristan behind her back.


    "I don¡¯t want to use anything related to him anymore." She continued.


    "Oh, dear... why do you overthink?" Isaac Donovan stopped his step and chuckled when he saw her worried expression. "You think Tristan owns this jet?"


    Bella nods while looking at the Sinclair Corps logo on the jet tail.


    "I could see that his company name is over there..." she said, gazing at her Grandpa again.


    "Did you know Tristan is not the company¡¯s true owner? I know Lewis still owns the majority of shares in the company. So, he has a right to use this jet, too..." Isaac calmly explained. He could sense her worry; she didn¡¯t want to meet Tristan and deal with him.


    Bella can¡¯t utter anything even though she knows she still worries about encountering Tristan during their flight today. She¡¯s not ready to meet him now.


    "Why are you afraid to meet him? I¡¯m here. He won¡¯t dare do anything funny to you, my dear," Isaac said.


    "I know. I just... well... I¡¯d feel awkward if he suddenly rides this jet before I tell him about Dax."


    "You should tell him sooner. After all, he has the right to know. And you can¡¯t possibly keep avoiding him forever. You two will live in the same city¡ª" Isaac stopped talking when he saw a black Maybach approaching them and stopping a few meters away.


    "Who?" Bella¡¯s eyes narrowed as she looked at the car. Her heart started to beat faster. She was nervous.

 Chapter 54: Phone Call From Tristan Sinclair

    Isaac stopped talking when he saw a black Maybach approaching them and stopping a few meters away.


    "Who!?" Bella¡¯s eyes narrowed as she looked at the car. Her heart started to beat faster. She was nervous.


    "That, of course, my best friend Lewis," Isaac said as he gently patted Bella on the shoulder before he walked towards the car. He greeted Lewis warmly, "My friend, Lewis... Why did you come late? I thought you changed your mind again."


    They embrace each other while laughing.


    "Hahaha, Isaac... No¡­no¡­I know I¡¯m not late, alright!" Lewis said, pushing Isaac aside briefly to see Bella. "Why do you look so shocked, Bella?" Lewis asked.


    "G-Grandpa, I¡¯m so surprised to see you here. Yesterday, you refused my offer, but why did you suddenly change your mind?"


    Lewis Sinclair laughed at Bella¡¯s confused expression. "I just wanted to surprise you, dear..."


    "This old geezer always pulls pranks like this, Bella. Next time, whenever this old geezer tells you something, believe the opposite," Isaac said jokingly, but with a deadpan face while shaking his head.


    "How could I stay here and let you play with Dax alone?" Lewis answered, narrowing his eyes at Isaac. "I won¡¯t allow that... Isaac... I¡¯m moving to the capital."


    "Do whatever you want. Just don¡¯t move into our house," Isaac chuckled.


    "Hahaha, I¡¯ll buy land near your house. No worries... You¡¯re going to see me around a lot."


    Bella, "..." sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It seems Bella¡¯s peaceful life won¡¯t remain peaceful for long.


    She silently took a deep breath while maintaining her Mona Lisa smile, watching the two older men she respected the most chatting¡ªit sounded like they were in agreement, but they actually weren¡¯t.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m glad you finally decided to move..." Bella walked over to him and put her arm around him. "Dax will be happy," she said, glancing at the plane. Her son and Noora had been on board since earlier.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go now," Lewis said.


    They all boarded the jet and flew to the capital.


    ***


    While in the Capital.


    Tristan received a call from Max when he was about to go down to his office. He picked up the call while walking to the elevator.


    "Good morning, boss," Max¡¯s urgent tone could be heard.


    "What is it!?"


    "Boss, you need to see something I found out. This is about Ms. Bella..."


    Hearing Bella¡¯s name was enough to make Tristan fasten his step.


    "Master, breakfast?" Geoffrey said as he followed Tristan to the elevator.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer, but his gaze seemed to tell him that there were essential things more important than breakfast.


    Geoffrey no longer said anything other than immediately pressing the elevator button and letting him enter.


    The lift is open on the 39th floor.


    Dylan, already waiting for him, led him to the control room.


    The room was filled with high-tech computers, acting as a command center, and could access CCTV in the entire building. Besides, the room also has Max¡¯s office as the IT director for Sinclair Corp.


    Max sat in a commanding-like chair in the middle of the room, his gaze fixed on the computer screen before him.


    However, when he heard someone enter the room, he stood immediately and hurriedly greeted Tristan.


    "Boss, your Grandpa booked a jet out from the East City to the Capital," Max said.


    The room became colder when Tristan heard Max¡¯s words. He halted his step while rubbing his eyebrow. "This is the important matter you said?"


    "Of course not, boss..." Max immediately answered. He sat back in his commanding chair. Then, his hands danced briefly on the keyboard. Not long after, several computer screens in front of them turned on. They showed CCTV footage of the private airport in East City.


    Even without Max¡¯s explanation, Tristan¡¯s eyes widened when he saw Bella leave the car. He also saw his son and Isaac Donovan among them. Later, he saw his Grandpa also come.


    "Ms. Bella and the others actually ride the jet, boss..." Max said proudly while glancing at Tristan, who still looked shocked looking at the monitor.


    "I checked the flight radar; they will land in this city in about 10 minutes. I¡¯m unsure where they will be heading, but I found another important clue..."


    Tristan was surprised to hear Max found another clue.


    "Speak!?"


    "Isaac Donovan has a house in Little Heaven, and I found that they started cleaning and renovating it a week ago. It seems they will stay there."


    "Are you sure about that?"


    "Yes, boss..." Dylan, who was standing behind, chimed in. "I already investigated and confirmed Ms. Bella will stay there with her grandpa."


    When Tristan found out about this, a faint smile appeared on the edge of his lips. At least now he knew where Bella lived, but other information was still a secret. Max could not access her personal data at all.


    Tristan glanced at Dylan, "Do I have property in that area? If I don¡¯t have it yet, buy it immediately. I also need to move to that area."


    Max, "..."


    Dylan, "..."


    "Yes, Boss... I will check."


    Tristan nods. Then he looks at Max again, "Max, send the CCTV footage to me."


    ****


    It only took 30 minutes of flight for the jet to land at Fort City¡¯s private airport.


    Bella and the others headed straight to the Little Heaven area. They parted ways with Lewis Sinclair, who also headed to his house.


    Not long after, their car arrived at a three-story modern-style house.


    However, before Bella entered the house, her cell phone started ringing. She was shocked to see the number. Even though she deleted that number five years ago, she still remembers it.


    Her hands clenched tightly into fists while she stared at her cell phone screen. ¡¯What do you want, Tristan?¡¯ she muttered under her breath.


    "Pick up. Maybe it¡¯s important," Isaac said before entering the house with Dax.


    Bella didn¡¯t pick up immediately but waited until Grandpa and Dax disappeared behind the door.


    After picking up the phone, no words came from her lips. She kept silent, waiting for him to say something.


    "Hi, It¡¯s been a while, Bella." Tristan¡¯s enchanting voice came from the other end. Causing Bella to hold her cell phone tightly. "How are you?"


    "What do you want?" She said coldly.

 Chapter 55: He Knows About Dax

    "Hi, It¡¯s been a while, Bella." Tristan¡¯s enchanting voice came from the other end. Causing Bella to hold her cell phone tightly. "How are you?"


    "What do you want?" She said coldly.


    Tristan¡¯s smile slowly turned wry when he heard her cold response. "Can we meet? There¡¯s something I need to talk to you..."


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything.


    "I know about our son. We need to talk about him, Bella," he said calmly, though his heart felt hardened as he waited for her answer.


    Bella was shocked to hear his words. Countless questions now fill her mind: How could he know about Dax? Did Grandpa Sinclair tell him?


    Despite her shock, Bella couldn¡¯t find the words to respond. She just stood where she was while holding her cell phone tightly.


    "Please give me a time and place. I¡¯ll come to you," he said patiently. "If you need more time, just let me know when you¡¯re willing to meet."


    "I can¡¯t right now. I have so much to do. I¡¯ll let you know later," Bella said, ending the call. She could feel her knees weakening after she hung up the phone.


    After speaking with Tristan, she didn¡¯t immediately enter the house. Instead, she tried to calm her upset heart and mind first. Bella didn¡¯t want her grandpa and Dax to see her gloomy expression now and worry about her, especially Dax.


    Later, she finally walked inside the house.


    She saw Grandpa and Dax still sitting in the living room as if they were waiting for her.


    Trying to hide her anxiety about meeting Tristan behind her warm smile, she joined them in the seating area.


    "Dax, do you like this house?" Bella asked in a cheerful tone as she sat next to Dax. Her smile grew wider as she watched him munching his chocolate cake, his eyes blinking at her.


    "M-Mom¡ª" Dax couldn¡¯t finish his words, his mouth still full of cake.


    "Ugh, sorry baby..." Bella chuckled, finding him adorable. "You can finish your cake first, then talk..." She gently ruffled his smooth black hair.


    After Dax finished his cake and drank his milk, he finally responded to Bella, "Yes, Mommy. This house is huge, and the backyard is also spacious. There¡¯s a swimming pool there too. And, look... Look... at the sea view.


    It¡¯s wonderful. I want to go there, mommy."


    Bella felt emotional seeing her son so happy. She stared at Dax for a while, mesmerized by his cuteness. Just looking at him was enough to calm her mind, and for a brief moment, she forgot about Tristan.


    "Mommy, glad you like this place. We can go to the beach later. But for now, let¡¯s check our room upstairs..." She said and excused herself to her grandpa. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella already knew from her grandpa that she would occupy the entire second floor while he would stay on the first floor.


    ...


    After accompanying Dax to his new room and helping him settle, Bella finally had time to settle into her own room.


    When she entered, Bella was surprised to see Noora still there, unpacking her suitcase.


    She walked to the walk-in closet and smiled, looking at the empty colossal room. She didn¡¯t have much stuff.


    The clothes and accessories there were almost everything she had brought to Sweden several years ago.


    She realized she needed to go shopping to buy a few formal clothes. She would need them as she was starting work tomorrow.


    "Young miss, you only have a few clothes. Looks like you need to go shopping," Noora said, glancing at Bella.


    "You read my mind, Aunty." Bella chuckled. "Well, yes... I plan to go shopping later. How about Dax? Does he need new clothes?" She asked, standing near the end of the room and gazing at the scenery outside.


    There¡¯s a huge French window with a hill view. She could see greenery in the hills. The temperature in this area was warmer than the East City. The snow had melted, and spring seemed to be approaching faster.


    "Of course, he needs a lot of new clothes, miss. Gosh... Young master has gained weight recently¡ª" Noora explained what Dax needed.


    "Okay, I¡¯ll set the time," Bella said quietly, leaving the room.


    Her mind filled with images of Tristan again, and her mood darkened again.


    She had promised to text him but hadn¡¯t sent a message. Now, she could only stare at her phone but dared not type anything.


    ...


    Standing near the glass window, Bella looked pensive, causing Noora, who had just come out from the walk-in closet, to become worried when she saw her expression.


    "Young miss, is something bothering you?" Noora¡¯s voice startled Bella.


    She smiled at Noora before answering, "No. I¡¯m fine. Nothing bothers me. Aunty, you can take a rest, too. I will take care of everything here."


    Noora didn¡¯t leave the room right away because she knew Bella was hiding something.


    "Miss, I have known you since you were a child, and I can see you are not telling the truth now..."


    "Oh, please, Noora..." Bella chuckled, unable to hide anything from her. She walked to the sofa and gestured for Noora to join her.


    Bella took a deep breath before saying, "You are so right. Something troubles me now."


    Noora started to worry, hearing the gloomy tone in Bella¡¯s voice.


    She still remembered Bella¡¯s vulnerable side when they moved to Sweden. She recalled the most challenging part of moving to a foreign country ¡ª the first and second years were tough without any friends or family there, unable to contact anyone outside. Only in the third year did Bella begin to improve and enjoy her life there. She started to open up to her friends and contact her grandpa again.


    However, Noora sensed that since returning to their home country, Bella had started to show signs of uneasiness and worry again through her gaze.


    Several times, Noora had wanted to ask, but they never had much alone time as Dax was always around.


    Today, however, Noora couldn¡¯t hold it anymore. She had to ask, fearing Bella might keep it to herself, which wouldn¡¯t be good for her mental health.


    "You can share with me. Maybe it will lessen your worry," Noora said sincerely.


    "Tristan asked to meet¡­"

 Chapter 56: Taking Dax From Her!

    "You can share with me. Maybe it will lessen your worry," Noora said sincerely.


    "Tristan asked to meet¡­"


    Noora was shocked to hear that. "Oh my god... He... He... already knows you¡¯re back? Who¡­who told him?


    Old Master Sinclair?"


    "Hmm, I guess so. Tristan also seems to be aware of Dax," Bella sighed softly. Although she was disappointed in Old Sinclair, she understood she couldn¡¯t entirely blame him. The old man must have been eager to share this information with his grandson.


    "I know it... It must have been Old Master Sinclair who told him¡ª" Noora¡¯s shoulders dropped, feeling worried.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She just faintly smiled.


    "¡ªOr, his butler, Alan!?" Noora began to guess.


    Bella shook her head.


    "Well, Alan wouldn¡¯t dare to do that. Your guess was right; only Grandpa Sinclair can tell Tristan about Dax and me."


    Bella sighed deeply before continuing, "Aunty, even though Old Sinclair told Tristan, I can¡¯t blame him..."


    Noora nodded in agreement. "You can¡¯t avoid Master Tristan forever, miss."


    Bella narrowed her eyes at Noora for a slight moment before she uttered, "Tsk... Tsk... Aunty, you sound more like my grandpa by day. How could you say the same words as him?"


    "Hahaha¡­ did I?"


    "Yeah. Grandpa also said that I can¡¯t avoid Tristan forever. And he also urged me to meet him and tell him about Dax."


    Bella found it hard to contain her laughter as she observed Noora. She noticed how much Noora resembled her grandpa, which amused her.


    They both laughed, causing the atmosphere in the room to become slightly warmer and less gloomy.


    "So... Young miss... you will meet Tristan!?"


    "Yes. I should meet him. If I delay meeting him, he might come here and see Dax without my consent, even behind my back..." Bella said calmly, but Noora could see the worry in her eyes.


    "That¡¯s good, miss. But, Young Miss... it seems something still bothers you," Noora curiously asked.


    Bella¡¯s eyes blinked a few times without saying anything, which caused Noora even more worry.


    After a long pause, Bella finally said, "What if Tristan takes Dax from me? This has been bothering me lately."


    Noora¡¯s face turned pale when she heard Bella¡¯s words. She never imagined it would come to that, and now she felt frightened to realize the possibility.


    "Young Miss, does Tristan have the chance to do that? I mean, you and he are already divorced. You also gave birth alone without his help. And Dax¡¯s name also doesn¡¯t use his name¡­ Could he still take Young Master from you?" Noora asked, her mind filled with so many questions. She stared at Bella, waiting for her response.


    Bella truly hoped that Tristan wouldn¡¯t have the chance to do that. But unfortunately, that wasn¡¯t the case. Even though they were divorced, Tristan still had the legal right to do so.


    Moreover, she had also committed the same offense by purposefully not informing him when she was pregnant. If Tristan took this matter to court, she would surely lose.


    "Yes, he can¡­" Bella answered. This worry had been consuming her lately, and she feared what would happen if Tristan made her life difficult and took Dax from her.


    "Young miss¡­ please... please do something. Don¡¯t let him take Dax from us. If he does, I will confront him. I won¡¯t hesitate to take drastic measures, like kill him with my own hand!!" Noora¡¯s eyes were slightly shaking, too angry to imagine the possibility of Tristan taking Dax from them.


    Bella was rendered speechless. She was amused to hear how wild Noora¡¯s imagination was. How could she consider murdering Tristan?


    Gosh!


    "Aunty, you don¡¯t have to turn yourself into a murderer..." Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh. "That foolish Tristan isn¡¯t worth dirtying your hands for."


    Noora, "..."


    "I¡¯m serious, Young Miss... I will do anything to stop him." She said. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh dear, Aunty, I¡¯m serious, too. There¡¯s no need to resort to such extreme action," Bella chuckled.


    "But¡­ but¡­ what if he really takes Young Master!?" Noora whimpered, holding back tears as she stared at Bella.


    "That¡¯s why I need to meet him and find out what he truly wants. If he tries to take Dax, I¡¯ll never allow it," Bella said calmly, her eyes flickered with intense emotion. She refused to sit idly by and let it happen.


    "Yes, Miss¡­ please ensure Tristan never takes Dax from you... From us!"


    "Hmm... But, aunty... I¡¯m not so much worried about Tristan. However, I¡¯m concerned about his parents," Bella said.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right. How could I forget about your evil-in-laws!?" Noora couldn¡¯t help but curse Tristan¡¯s parents.


    They were the source of Bella¡¯s miserable life. Tristan¡¯s parents could do anything to achieve what they wanted. If they found out about Dax, they would make Bella¡¯s life miserable once more.


    "Hmm, they are really evil!"


    Silence hung in the air as if they were lost in their thoughts, seated together while gazing out the window.


    "So, when are you going to meet him?" Noora¡¯s voice seemed to pull Bella from her own thoughts.


    She looked at Noora for a moment before answering, "Tonight."


    ****


    Sinclair Tower.


    Tristan sat in the meeting room, listening to a report from the Finance Director.


    Although his eyes were fixed on the screen before him, his mind was distracted by his cell phone on the table.


    He glanced at his cell phone occasionally to ensure there was a signal and the battery was full.


    It had been over three hours, and Bella hadn¡¯t texted him as promised.


    Tristan was starting to grow nervous, suspecting that Bella actually didn¡¯t want to contact him. Maybe she just wanted to end the conversation, using such an excuse.


    ¡¯Should I text her to remind her?¡¯ he pondered.


    He had wanted to message her several times, but his mind stopped him each time. He didn¡¯t want Bella to become upset and block his number.


    Tristan let out a deep sigh, feeling impatient.


    "Damn it!!" A soft curse escaped his lips, suddenly drawing the attention of ten pairs of eyes.

 Chapter 57: Finally, She Decided to Meet Tristan

    Tristan let out a deep sigh, feeling impatient.


    "Damn it!!" A soft curse escaped his lips, suddenly drawing the attention of ten pairs of eyes.


    All the directors in the room were stunned to hear their boss curse during such an important meeting.


    When they saw their Boss¡¯s expression darken, as if someone had just provoked his anger, no one dared make a sound.


    Silence filled the room, causing Tristan to furrow his brow. He glanced at the Director of Finance, who was still standing at the head of the table, holding a pointer and staring back at him.


    He narrowed his eyes at the Director before saying, "Why did you suddenly stop talking? Is your report finished?"


    "Sir, you just cursed at me," the finance director said tremulously, noticing the anger in his Boss¡¯s expression.


    When he saw that Tristan had not said anything, the Director continued, "Please give me a pointer as to which report didn¡¯t meet your expectations, sir?" He was worried that he had made a mistake in his report.


    Tristan¡¯s sudden anger confused the Finance Director and shocked Dylan, who was sitting behind him. He stood up and walked near Tristan to check why his mood suddenly dropped below zero!? He could feel the room suddenly become freezing.


    Dylan leaned closer to Tristan and whispered, "Boss, I¡¯m sorry to ask... Why did you curse the Finance Director? Did he make any mistake?"


    "Cursed? Why should I curse him?" Tristan frowned, looking at Dylan with his confused-looking eyes. He didn¡¯t remember cursing someone. Did he miss something?


    "Y-You did, sir. Everyone heard that..." Dylan was puzzled by his words.


    Tristan frowned for a while, trying to remember what happened. A second later, he laughed inwardly.


    He couldn¡¯t believe he had made such a silly mistake, cursing without realizing it because Bella was filling his mind.


    He sighed deeply and fixed his eyes on the Finance Director again.


    "Continue!" Tristan said calmly.


    "Y-Yes, sir¡ª" The Finance Director resumed his report. However, he heard a cell phone ringing before moving to the next slide.


    All eyes now turned to Tristan¡¯s cell phone on the table, waiting for him to turn it off.


    Tristan¡¯s gaze remained fixed on his cell phone. When he saw Bella¡¯s name on the screen, he immediately stood up from his seat.


    "Meeting dismissed..." he said as he walked out of the room, leaving all the Directors in the room looking shocked as they watched him leave.


    They turned to Dylan, who wore the same expression as them¡ªconfused.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Dylan? Why does Mr. Sinclair look strange today?" The Finance Director looked at Dylan with a frown.


    "This is the first time I¡¯ve heard Mr. Sinclair curse. And now he suddenly stops the meeting..." Another director asked.


    "Is there any problem?"


    "Something happened at home?"


    "Can you ask Mr. Sinclair what we should do now? Should we wait or¡ª"


    Dylan was rendered speechless. He also didn¡¯t know what had happened to their Boss.


    He stood from his seat and walked to the door, but before he stepped out, Dylan stopped and looked at them all.


    "Okay, gentlemen. You heard what Mr. Sinclair said, right? The meeting is ended... You may return to your office and await further instructions." Dylan left the room and chased Tristan into his office.


    When Dylan arrived, he saw the door still slightly open. He knocked on the door, "Boss, may I come in?" He said while waiting outside.


    "Yes," Tristan said without looking at the door. His eyes were still on his phone screen, reading a text from Bella.


    His heart felt slightly warm receievd a text from her.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t stop reading the text.


    [Bella: ] 7 PM, Steak House, room #201, Mogul Mega Mall.


    Dylan enters the room while observing Tristan¡¯s expression. When he notices a faint smile on his face, he feels relieved, knowing his Boss is in a good mood.


    ¡¯It looks like... Boss received good news, so he stopped the meeting!?¡¯ Dylan wonder.


    "Boss, the directors are curious to know what happened... Why do you suddenly dismiss them?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t bother to answer Dylan. He is too busy to reply to Bella¡¯s text message.


    [Tristan: ] Thank you, Bella. I appreciated it


    [Tristan: ] (Love Emoji)


    After sending the text, a smile graced his handsome face.


    Tristan can¡¯t believe what happened to him now. This is the first time he feels excited receiving a text message from a woman, and it makes him use emojis to reply to her for the first time in his life. How weird!


    After placing his cell phone on the desk, he glances at Dylan.


    "What are you ask earlier?"


    Dylan, "...."


    "Boss, the directors are curious to know what happened... Why do you suddenly dismiss them?"


    "Ask the Finance director to send his report to my email. And the other Director, too¡­"


    "Yes, boss, I will."


    "And cancel all my appointments this noon and night. I have to go somewhere!"


    "Boss, you actually have dinner with your grandpa and parents in your grandpa¡¯s house. I don¡¯t think it would be wise if you cancel it¡­" Dylan panicked because his Boss had confirmed he would come.


    Tristan shoots his death glare at Dylan, "Are you working for them or me?"


    Dylan silently swallows before he flashes his smile. He said, "I will call them right away, Boss. No worries."


    "You might go now. Ah, I will drive alone. There is no need to accompany me."


    Dylan feels suspicious. It was rare to see Tristan drive without them. Is he meeting someone? Who?


    He wanted to ask, but when he saw him immersed in reading something on his phone, he put aside his curiosity and left the room.


    ****


    While at Little Heaven,


    Bella was dumbfounded reading Tristan¡¯s text message.


    "Did someone else¡¯s soul possess him? Why does he use this kind of emoji?"


    This is the first time she received a text from him with a love emoji, and he also typed a long text.


    "Gosh... How weird!" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella tossed her phone onto the bed and hurried to the bathroom to prepare for a shopping trip before meeting Tristan.

 Chapter 58: Surprised to See Him!

    At four in the afternoon, Bella was ready to go. She needed to arrive early at the Mogul Mega Mall to go shopping before meeting Tristan at 7 p.m.


    However, before she went down to the first floor, Dax came out of his room simultaneously.


    Bella was surprised to see her son rubbing his eyes while walking towards her.


    "Oh, baby¡­ I thought you were taking a nap. Why are you awake now?" Bella came closer and took his chubby hand. She took him to the sofa in the living room area on the second floor.


    She smiled at how adorable he looked just waking up from his sleep, his thick black hair looking messy.


    "I slept too much, Mom... I¡¯m not sleepy anymore," Dax said in a hoarse but sweet voice, looking at his mother.


    Dax was surprised to see his mother wearing clothes that she rarely wears.


    She wore a white turtleneck, skinny jeans, and a khaki trench coat on her shoulder. Her beautiful wavy black hair, which she usually tied up, now flowed beautifully down her back. She looked stunning, like an angel.


    Seeing how beautiful his mother looked now made Dax worry.


    "Are you going somewhere, Mom?" Dax asked, concerned that she might leave him.


    "Yes. I have to go somewhere..."


    "Where? You didn¡¯t bring me with you?" he asked, disappointed.


    "Baby, sorry¡­ I didn¡¯t ask you to come with me because you will hate that place." Bella smiled, knowing her son disliked going to the supermarket or shopping center. He hated crowded places.


    Dax frowned.


    "Are you going to the supermarket?"


    "No. Shopping mall. I need some clothes to wear and also yours. If you want to come with¡ª"


    "No, thanks. You can go now, mommies¡­ But please buy a few cakes for me or anything delicious," Dax said, his eyes beaming as he imagined his favorite chocolate cake.


    Bella smiled. She felt amused looking at how adorable he was when discussing food.


    She cupped his chubby cheeks with her hand and kissed his forehead gently.


    "Dax, I will buy your favorite cake. Now, you can continue to sleep or play with Aunty Noora."


    ****


    After Bella finished accompanying Dax to his room, she immediately went downstairs.


    She saw her grandpa waiting at the main entrance when she arrived on the first floor. She could see how worried he was now, making Bella smile to reassure him.


    "Bella, are you sure you want to go alone?" Isaac asked, concerned for her. He was worried she would drive and meet Tristan alone.


    Since she said she would meet Tristan, he had already asked her to go with Nick, but she refused.


    "Yes, I¡¯m fine. Please, Grandpa... I¡¯m not a teenager but a mother. Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯ve lived in this city for almost ten years. I¡¯m familiar with the places I visit.


    I will not get lost¡­ trust me." Bella chuckled; her grandpa still thought of her as a teenager.


    "No... No..." Isaac paused. He glanced inside to see if Dax was around before he said, "What I mean¡­ are you okay to meet Tristan alone? Why do I feel you need someone to accompany you?"


    Bella¡¯s face turned nervous as she remembered she would meet her ex-husband. But she dismissed her nervousness, not wanting her grandpa to feel even more worried.


    "I¡¯m fine. No worries¡­ I already prepared myself for this day." Bella said calmly, though her heart beat faster than usual.


    Isaac couldn¡¯t force Bella. He could only trust her and let her use his car.


    "Drive safely, Bella. If you think you can¡¯t drive, just call me. I will ask someone to pick you up..." he said concernedly.


    "Hmm, I¡¯ll call if I need you," Bella smiled and waved her hand as the SUV slowly left the yard.


    This is the first time she has driven alone in this city since arriving in the country again, not since she married Tristan. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When she was still married to Tristan, a driver always accompanied her wherever she went, and it felt strange now to drive alone again.


    But even though she rarely drives alone in this city, she knows the streets and her destination quite well. Mogul Mega Mall is a place she often visited before marrying Tristan.


    She loves to visit Mogul Mega Mall because there are so many places to shop, restaurants, and cafes to hang out.


    ...


    After driving for about thirty minutes, she finally arrived and parked her car in the basement.


    "I¡¯m Feeling so weird coming back to this place..." Bella says to herself as she presses the elevator to go upstairs. She still has two hours to shop before meeting with Tristan.


    Ding!


    The elevator opened, and she was shocked beyond words to see a man standing inside.


    Even if the man stood there looking at his cell phone, he didn¡¯t see her. She recognized him in just one glance.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to bump into him immediately, so she made a U-turn, pretending to forget something in her car.


    But, unfortunately, the man already saw her. "Bella, stop¡ª" his voice stops her.


    Bella clenched her hands into tight fists, hearing his familiar voice. Before she turned to look at him, she tried to adjust her expression, not wanting to show her nervousness.


    After taking a deep breath, she turned back and saw him standing, holding the elevator door, smiling at her.


    She silently swallowed, ignoring his warm smile. However, when she saw his blue eyes, which had often fascinated her in the past, she could feel her legs weaken.


    ¡¯Damn it!! Tristan Sinclair, why did you come so early!?¡¯ Bella could only vent her anger in her mind while giving him a forced half-smile.


    "Come in," Tristan said again, gesturing for her to enter the elevator. She had no choice but to walk inside and stand beside him.


    Standing in the same small space with him, Bella could immediately feel her throat dry. And all the courage she prepared before meeting him vanished right away.


    Her hands tightened into fists, holding back her nerves.


    "Which floor?" Tristan¡¯s voice broke the silence.

 Chapter 59: Their First Meeting

    Bella¡¯s hands tightened into fists, holding back her nerves.


    "Which floor?" Tristan¡¯s voice broke the silence.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer but pressed the number two. He couldn¡¯t help but smile when she ignored him.


    "What are you doing here?" She asked coldly without looking at him.


    "I¡¯m going to a meeting. With you. Didn¡¯t we make an appointment here? Did you forget?" Tristan said calmly, ignoring her annoyance.


    "I mean, aren¡¯t our meeting at 7 PM!? Why did you come so early?" She couldn¡¯t believe this busy man could attend their meeting two hours early.


    Tristan raised his hand to touch his eyebrow and smiled. He replied, "Why not?"


    Bella, "..."


    "Mr. Sinclair, I find it hard to believe a CEO of a big company like you has that much free time..." she continued, looking at him through the mirror on the elevator door.


    He smiled at her sarcastic comment.


    "I¡¯m famous for always arriving on time. I¡¯ve never been late for an appointment with anyone, including you, Ms. Donovan..." he said thoughtfully.


    Bella was left confused, unsure if the man was being truthful or just making a random excuse.


    She couldn¡¯t help but chuckle inwardly when she saw his earnest gaze. She shook her head and ignored him.


    However, Tristan didn¡¯t let her remain silent; he asked, "Same question... Why did you also come here two hours early?"


    Bella secretly took a deep breath. She wanted to ignore him, but she couldn¡¯t.


    "I need to go shopping before we meet," she said, feeling defeated.


    Ding! sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The elevator doors opened. Bella immediately walked away without giving him a chance to say something.


    She quickened her pace, hoping Tristan would let her go. But she was wrong.


    After a few steps, Bella breathed a sigh of relief, able to separate herself from Tristan. However, her relief only lasted a few seconds because Tristan¡¯s voice was heard from behind.


    "What a coincidence, Bella! I also want to go shopping," Tristan said, walking fast to match her step. "Let¡¯s go shopping together," he said cheerfully.


    Bella, "...."


    She took a deep sigh.


    Even children would know that he only made random excuses. Since when did a figure like him buy his clothes at the shopping mall?


    She knew that Tristan had a personal shopper who provided his clothes and also had a personal tailor. He never buys his stuff alone.


    Bella didn¡¯t want this man to follow her to go shopping. She stopped her step abruptly and turned to see him. They stood so close, only two steps away.


    She looked up to meet his eyes, feeling annoyed.


    However, when their eyes met, her heart started to beat faster than usual.


    She clenched her hand while looking at him closely; she saw he was still wearing his formal dark gray suit. He looked like he had just come straight from his office.


    After a few seconds of trying to calm her chaotic mind, she finally could express her frustration, "What do you want, Tristan Sinclair? If you want to talk, wait until seven!"


    Bella narrowed her eyes at him as if she wanted to let him know, just to leave her alone.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her immediately; instead, he fed his eyes, looking at her beautiful face closely. Her beautiful gray eyes looked sharp, staring back at him; he could clearly see uneasiness there. Her dainty nose looked stunning, and her cherry-full lips were enough to make his heart flutter.


    The memories of when he kissed her lips now filled his mind, torturing him as he wanted to pull her into his arms.


    ¡¯Damn!! This woman, how could she stir my heart this way!?¡¯ Tristan could only vent his frustration in his mind. ¡¯Calm, Tristan! Calm!!¡¯ he chanted in his mind, holding himself back from pulling her into his arms.


    Looking at how she changed drastically from the last time they met was enough to convince him even more that he was starting to fall in love with her.


    However, this time, he didn¡¯t want to rush; he would patiently make her fall in love again. And he would do it the right way, by chasing her, not the other way around.


    "You know what, Bella?" He said in an unhurried tone, causing Bella to frown slightly.


    He smiled warmly before continuing, "This is the first time I¡¯ve seen you angry like this. And you look beautiful... gorgeous, that makes my heart flatter." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded soft.


    Bella, "..."


    She was speechless to hear this cold, icy man she had known in the past turn into a shameless man.


    ¡¯Gosh! This is not the Tristan I know. Someone might possess his soul!!¡¯ She wondered while staring at him sharply.


    Tristan was amused as she blinked, staring at him without words.


    He continued, "Bella Donovan, I apologize for my past rudeness, ignorance, and unfaithfulness during our marriage. I know my mistakes are difficult for you to forgive; however, I hope you give me a chance this time."


    Bella was dumbfounded hearing his words.


    ¡¯Since when did this mighty cold man, Tristan Sinclair, change into this melancholic man and apologize to me?¡¯ It was hard for her to believe she could witness this side of him.


    ¡¯No. No... This man is not Tristan Sinclair. Even if this man is really Tristan, he will never be sincere. Please don¡¯t be swayed, Bella!¡¯


    Bella shook her head, trying to push aside her curiosity about this new Tristan Sinclair.


    She smiled faintly while turning her gaze away from him.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could I almost wavered just hearing his apology!?¡¯ Bella speaks to herself.


    She took a deep breath, trying to calm her mind. After a few seconds, she looked up to meet his eyes again.


    "Tristan Sinclair, are you done talking!?"


    He frowned.


    When Bella saw Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, she turned her back and walked away. "Bye! See you at seven."


    Bella headed toward the children¡¯s clothing section. She needed to buy Dax some clothes first before buying anything for herself.


    Tristan can¡¯t help but smile; looking at Bella left him just like that.


    ¡¯Oh boy, this is going to be harder, Tristan!¡¯ he laughs inwardly as he walks to follow her.

 Chapter 60: Shopping Together

    Tristan can¡¯t help but smile; looking at Bella left him just like that.


    ¡¯Oh boy, this is going to be harder, Tristan!¡¯ he laughs inwardly as he walks to follow her while texting someone.


    When Tristan saw Bella enter a children¡¯s clothing shop, his heart raced as he realized she wanted to buy clothes for their son.


    He hastened his steps and entered the shop as well. There were no other customers, only them and two shopkeepers.


    Tristan didn¡¯t approach Bella; instead, he sat in the seating area, his eyes never leaving her.


    "Sir, do you need anything?" one of the shopkeepers asked him.


    Tristan shook his head. "No, I¡¯m just here with her."


    "So, the madam over there is your wife..." the shopkeeper nodded slightly.


    Instantly, Tristan felt a surge of satisfaction hearing the shopkeeper refer to Bella as his wife. He liked that!


    "Yes. You can help my wife first. Give her anything she wants. And..." Tristan took out his black card and handed it to the shopkeeper. "Use this card to pay for her purchases."


    The shopkeeper was surprised to see the Sinclair Corp logo on the card. She glanced at the man again to see if she recognized him. When she looked closely at his face, she was shocked.


    Hurriedly, she accepted the card, bowed her head slightly, and then walked to the cashier area to inform her colleagues.


    "Oh my god... You won¡¯t believe who our customers are now. Look at that man over there. He... He¡¯s Tristan Sinclair," she whispered to her friend.


    "What?" The cashier looked over at the seating area and was shocked to see a figure she usually saw on television news or the internet now sitting in their shop.


    "That woman over there was his wife. Mr. Sinclair asked me to use this card if his wife is done shopping. So, you can process it with this card..." She placed Tristan¡¯s card on the cashier¡¯s table.


    "I¡¯ll assist Ms. Sinclair first..." She said excitedly, knowing they might receive a substantial bonus if this wealthy couple made many purchases today.


    "Go! I¡¯ll call our manager to let him know. A big shot is now shopping in our store," the cashier said as she took out her cell phone.


    ...


    Bella was so absorbed in browsing the adorable children¡¯s clothing that she didn¡¯t notice Tristan in the shop.


    She was too lost in her own world, captivated by the many cute items available to Dax. It was rare for Bella to shop for her son¡¯s clothes in a physical store; back in Sweden, she usually bought them online.


    However, the clothes often didn¡¯t match the website¡¯s pictures or descriptions. There were limited options, with only a few nearby clothing shops in their village.


    Entering this shop, which specialized in children¡¯s clothing and carried well-known brands suited for Dax¡¯s age, made her want to buy everything in sight. Her shopping basket was nearly overflowing with Shirts, trousers, and winter jackets.


    "Madam, do you need another basket?" the shop attendant asked politely.


    "Yes, please," Bella replied with a slight smile. Then, she accepts the empty basket and continues browsing.


    "Let me carry the basket," she offered, taking the full basket from Bella¡¯s hands and replacing it with an empty one.


    "I need to buy shoes, too," Bella mentioned as she went to another section to look at boots.


    Already familiar with Dax¡¯s size, Bella confidently chose several pairs of shoes, boots, and sneakers without worrying about getting the wrong size. The shopkeeper swiftly handed her another empty basket as she continued her shopping spree.


    Just as Bella was about to fill her basket again, her eyes widened in surprise as she noticed Tristan casually sitting on the small couch in the middle of the shop, his eyes fixed on her with a warm smile gracing his lips.


    ¡¯Damn! Why is this man still here?¡¯ Bella cursed inwardly when she saw him approaching her from his seat.


    Bella opened her mouth to say something, but not a single word left her lips; she was perplexed by this situation.


    She was even more shocked when she heard the shopkeeper¡¯s words. "Ms. Sinclair, let me carry your basket¡ª"


    Bella felt her throat dry when hearing the shopkeeper calling her Ms. Sinclair.


    ¡¯What the hell happened here? Why does this shopkeeper call me Ms. Sinclair? Did Tristan tell them like that?¡¯ She was puzzled but didn¡¯t say anything; she just let the basket move to the shopkeeper¡¯s hand.


    Bella turned her confused-looking gaze to Tristan, "W-Why are you here?" she asked in her low voice when Tristan stood right before her.


    "Shopping, of course..." Tristan smiled, looking at her panicked expression.


    "Y-You also buy children¡¯s clothes?" Bella asked. She remembers this man had a child with his other woman. He must come here to buy clothes for his child, right?


    Tristan leans closer to her, causing Bella to move a step behind, avoiding him. He chuckled.


    "Yes. I come to buy clothes for our son..." he whispered.


    Bella was speechless.


    She took a deep breath while narrowing her eyes at him.


    "Tristan, please... I don¡¯t want to fight with you here. Can you leave me alone now? We can talk about it later. But now is not the time and place!" she said calmly, even though she wanted to scold him. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan smiled as he stood straight. He put his hand on his trouser pocket while smiling at her. Looking at how angry she was now made him even more interested in her.


    "Alright, let¡¯s settle our shopping here..." Tristan calmly said, walking to the cashier¡¯s desk. "You can process the payment," he ordered to the cashier.


    Bella was shocked. She didn¡¯t ask him to pay. Why did he order the cashier now? She hurried to the cashier, and before she said anything, Tristan held her hand and pulled her to stand beside him.


    She looked up to see him, "I will¡ª"


    Tristan leaned closer to her. "He is my son too. Let me pay for everything. Please, Bella... Don¡¯t stop me..." He whispers gently, but Bella feels this man stating something she can¡¯t refuse.

 Chapter 61: Shameless Tristan

    Tristan leaned closer to her. "He is my son too. Let me pay for everything. Please, Bella... Don¡¯t stop me..." He whispers gently, but Bella feels this man stating something she can¡¯t refuse.


    Bella felt angry, but she couldn¡¯t do anything. She silently took a deep breath, looking at the shopkeeper packing everything she had chosen for Dax.


    ¡¯Only this time, Bella!! Never give him a chance!¡¯ Bella reminds herself.


    When Bella saw seven large paper bags lined up, almost filling the cashier¡¯s desk, she could only laugh bitterly in her heart. ¡¯Gosh, how can I buy that much?¡¯


    ...


    "Mr. Sinclair, do you want us to send this to your address?" the cashier asked.


    "Let me¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because Tristan chimed in.


    "No need, thank you. Someone will pick it up¡­" Tristan said while glancing at the door. He saw Dylan standing there with two men in black suits. He gestured for them to enter and took the paper bag.


    Bella, "..."


    She was surprised to see three men appear to take the paper bag. She recognized the man with glasses; it was Dylan, Tristan¡¯s assistant.


    In the past, Dylan never talked to her casually; he always spoke to her seriously and formally, and he never even showed his smile at her.


    But Bella was surprised to see Dylan warmly smile at her just now. He even greeted her politely.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but think; Dylan and his boss acted strangely as if someone possessed them.


    "Thank you, Mr. Sinclair, Ms. Sinclair, for shopping in our store..." the cashier said politely while returning his card and the receipt.


    But Tristan did not accept it. He said, "Give it to my wife¡­"


    Bella still glanced at Dylan, shocked beyond words, when she heard Tristan¡¯s words. She glared at him as if wanting to say through her gaze, "Are you forgetting something? We are not husband and wife anymore!! And why should I save your card!?"


    Tristan smiled, looking at her annoyed expression. He turned his eyes to Dylan, ignoring her protesting gaze.


    Before Bella could voice her thoughts, the cashier said, "Ms. Sinclair, this is our membership VVIP card. You could get a discount if you shop in our store in any city." She said politely while handing off Tristan¡¯s card, the store VVIP card, and the receipt.


    Bella didn¡¯t take it right away but glanced at Tristan again.


    However, Tristan seemed to ignore her as he spoke to Dylan and two bodyguards as they walked out of the store.


    She had no choice but to accept the card, saying, "Thank you..." And placing it in her bag.


    When Bella joined Tristan at the store entrance, she hadn¡¯t spotted Dylan and the two men earlier.


    "Where are they? What about the stuff we bought?" she asked confusedly while looking around, but she didn¡¯t see them.


    "They will send the stuff to your house," Tristan casually said.


    Another surprise hit her, "You know my house?"


    "Let¡¯s go to the restaurant and talk..." he said, walking away.


    Bella sighed deeply.


    "This is not yet seven. I still need to buy something," she said, heading to the third floor. She couldn¡¯t delay buying her stuff because she would start work tomorrow and needed her formal suit.


    Tristan halted his step and turned to see her. He smiled when he saw her walk toward the escalator in the opposite direction from him.


    He strode towards her. "Do you need anything?" he asked, standing behind her on the escalator. Bella didn¡¯t answer. "What do you want? You can tell me; maybe I could ask someone to deliver it to you..." He asked again.


    Bella is having trouble dealing with Tristan¡¯s shamelessness.


    The more she ignores him, the more he tries to find ways to talk to her.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Oh, God... can you silence this shameless Tristan for me? Or can you make him leave me alone?¡¯


    Bella vented her frustration while walking and looking at the store she wanted to visit ¡ª the famous local brand she had liked to wear before she married this shameless Tristan.


    She glanced at him, who walked beside her, trying to calm her annoyance.


    Walking beside Tristan caused a few people to glance at them. Bella started to worry that she would be in trouble if someone took a picture of them and uploaded it to social media.


    She didn¡¯t want to become a trending topic on social media just because she walked with this Playboy! S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Tristan, can you walk a little further away from me?"


    "Why?"


    "I¡¯m worried that someone will take our photo and upload it on social media. I don¡¯t want my face to appear on the internet!"


    "Why? Am I not handsome enough to walk with you?" He asked with a small smile appearing on the corner of his lips.


    "Can you stop asking every time I ask? Could you please just do... it?" She asked nicely, hoping he would agree.


    Tristan felt amused hearing her words.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I will ask someone to make sure no one takes a picture of us," he said calmly, not wanting to make her angrier.


    "Thank you." She answered in a very soft voice, almost inaudible.


    Of course, Tristan heard it, and that made him even happier.


    Tristan no longer tried to tease her. He let her enter the women¡¯s formal wear boutique.


    However, when he noticed the brand, he was surprised. This famous local brand is one of their subsidiaries.


    The shop manager who knew him immediately approached him. Still, Tristan shook his head slowly, asking him not to greet him loudly.


    "Sir, welcome..." The shop manager whispered as he stood near Tristan.


    "Don¡¯t expose this brand as one of my companies. You can help my wife choose whatever she wants..." He orders.


    The manager nodded slightly and left Tristan sitting in the corner of the waiting area.


    Bella didn¡¯t bother to check on Tristan. She already knew that man would not leave her alone. The more she asked him to leave, the more he would stay. It was better just to ignore him. If he got bored, he would definitely leave on his own.

 Chapter 62: Happy to See Her Smile

    Bella really admires this local brand, FLYTE. Their style matches her style. Offering formal suits with an elegant yet understated feel, their preference for monochrome colors is very much in line with her taste.


    She¡¯s purchased several suit sets, high heels, and boots, all from the same brand.


    Bella was familiar with the products she wanted to buy, so she only needed thirty minutes to complete her shopping.


    As she prepared to pay, Bella noticed Tristan seated on one of the sofas, engrossed in something on his cell phone. She felt relieved that he hadn¡¯t noticed she¡¯d finished shopping, as she preferred not to have him pay for her clothes as he did for Dax.


    However, something happened when Bella arrived at the cashier¡¯s desk. When she handed over her card, the cashier told her that her card had been declined.


    Bella felt strange hearing that a card with unlimited usage could be rejected.


    "I¡¯m sorry... Can you try again? The card I gave you is not a credit card. There¡¯s no limit on that card..." Bella tried to explain.


    There was no way her card had been rejected; even if she bought everything in this shop, she could still afford it and still had plenty of money left on her card.


    The cashier tried again, and the result was the same. "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m sorry, but this machine said decline. I don¡¯t know what happened. Maybe you have another card? You can try it..." the cashier said politely.


    Bella took a deep sigh before she took out her other card. This time, the credit card that Jack gave her was the company card she could use for her daily expenses. She had never used this card since Jack gave it to her five years ago.


    "Try this card," Bella said confidently, believing Jack wouldn¡¯t give her a card with a small limit.


    "Ma¡¯am, I apologize; this card also declined." The cashier smiled awkwardly, feeling bad for this young lady. "Ma¡¯am, do you have another card?"


    ¡¯Damn! What is this? Why are all the cards rejected?¡¯ Bella feels annoyed. She didn¡¯t have any more cards now.


    How could she cancel buying everything she had already chosen?


    She felt disappointed because she would have to cancel buying these clothes now.


    Bella put her wallet back into her bag, and at that moment, the Black Card that Tristan had given her earlier appeared at the bottom of her bag.


    ¡¯This... Can I use his card?¡¯ Bella felt tempted to use it to determine whether his card would be declined.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, she took the card but didn¡¯t immediately give it to the cashier. She turned to see Tristan, who was still sitting relaxed on the sofa, as if he was in his own world, ignoring her.


    "Try this card..." She finally gave the cashier Tristan¡¯s card. She felt a little tense, worried that Tristan¡¯s card would be rejected, too. She would be forced to cancel today¡¯s shopping if the card were rejected.


    Her only option is to return tomorrow with cash because she doesn¡¯t have much cash to pay for her expensive purchases.


    "M¡¯am, thank you for your purchase..." the cashier¡¯s voice surprised Bella. With confused eyes, she accepted the card and the long receipt from the cashier.


    ¡¯Heaven!! How on earth is my card getting rejected but his card not?¡¯ Bella became suspicious; Maybe Tristan got her card rejected on purpose. However, seeing that Tristan had not moved from the sofa, she put aside her suspicions.


    She took a deep breath before putting the card back in her bag.


    "Thank you," Bella smiled at the cashier. Just as she reached for the four shopping bags, a hand suddenly stopped her. She was surprised to see Tristan already standing beside her.


    "Let me carry those for you..." Tristan said, taking all her shopping bags.


    Bella, "..."


    She followed her out of the store.


    "Tristan... I..." Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because Dylan suddenly appeared and took the shopping bags from Tristan.


    ¡¯Do his people have ninja skills? They can appear and disappear without notice!¡¯ Bella faintly smiled as she saw Dylan nod at her and walk away, disappearing from her line of sight once again.


    While Bella was lost in thought, Tristan looked at her with a faint smile. He was so happy to see her smile for the first time since they met again.


    Tristan let her drown in her thoughts for a moment before he called her, "Bella, do you still want to go shopping?" he asked softly.


    Bella was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s voice sound so close. She turned towards him and how surprised she was when she found Tristan¡¯s face almost touching hers. Spontaneously, she stepped back but didn¡¯t see someone walking behind her.


    Before she hit the person, Tristan¡¯s hand grabbed her waist and pulled her towards him. Everything happened so fast, and she was already in his arms.


    "Be careful. You might hit someone..." Tristan whispered near his ear.


    Bella silently swallowed. No words came out of her mouth, as she was simply shocked and speechless by the situation. She didn¡¯t dare move in his arms.


    She lowered her head, hiding her blushing face. However, her heart beat even faster when she could smell his familiar fragrance again.


    After a few seconds, Bella regained her calm; she pushed him away and looked up to meet his gaze. They didn¡¯t say anything momentarily, only looking at each other silently.


    "Do you still want to buy something?" Tristan finally asked after satisfying his eyes, looking at her blushing face.


    "Hmm, I¡¯m done," she answered, turning her gaze elsewhere to calm her heart.


    "Okay, let¡¯s go to the restaurant. It¡¯s almost seven..." he said, then walked. Bella followed him toward the elevator.


    When they arrived at the Steak House restaurant, the restaurant manager recognized Tristan. He hurriedly greeted him and led them to their VIP room. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella felt weird because she had booked this place and hosted this meeting. Still, Tristan actually knew the restaurant manager and had often been to this place. So, she just let him arrange everything.

 Chapter 63: Dating With Your Granddaughter-In-Law

    After the manager left the room, Bella finally had the courage to start the conversation with Tristan.


    "You can ask anything you want, Tristan."


    Tristan stared at her with a smile. "What is our..." He paused when his phone vibrated. When he saw the caller, he looked at Bella with an apologetic gaze. "I¡¯m sorry, but I must pick up this phone first. Do you mind?"


    She shook her head, "Sure, go ahead."


    Tristan answered while his eyes were still on her, "Grandpa!? Why did you call?"


    Suddenly, Bella became nervous upon realizing that the caller was Lewis Sinclair. She lowered her gaze and listened to their conversation in silence.


    "BRAT! You know I¡¯m back in town, but you don¡¯t welcome me?" Lewis Sinclair snapped. "Why did you cancel our dinner plans without telling me? You have to give me a good reason why you canceled coming here..." Lewis Sinclair¡¯s voice sounded so loud from the other end that Bella could hear it clearly.


    Tristan opened his mouth to speak, but Lewis spoke again, "This is why I don¡¯t want to return. Because you weren¡¯t sincere in asking me to come back!"


    Tristan put the phone away from his ears. His Grandpa¡¯s voice was so loud it made his ears hurt.


    "Hello... Tristan Sinclair... are you there? Why didn¡¯t you answer me?"


    "Grandpa, how can I speak if you don¡¯t give me a chance!?" Tristan was amused hearing his Grandpa venting his anger.


    Bella pretended to look at her cell phone but actually laughed silently at their conversation.


    Lewis cleared his throat before saying, "Why did you suddenly cancel to come to my house? Are you more concerned about meeting other people than your grandfather?" His annoyance was still clearly heard in the tone of his old hoarse voice.


    "Grandpa, my date tonight is also the most important person," Tristan smiled, hearing his own words. He couldn¡¯t believe he had said that when Bella sat opposite him.


    ¡¯You are so bold, man...¡¯ He chuckled inwardly. However, his smile vanished as he felt a pair of sharp eyes fixed on him.


    Tristan turned to look at Bella and was taken aback by the intensity of her gaze. He rested his back against the chair and rubbed his forehead with one hand while avoiding eye contact with her.


    "Stop talking about dating. Why do you keep meeting women who are only interested in your wealth and power?" Lewis asked, feeling angry. He was getting tired of reading news about Tristan¡¯s girlfriends. If this Brat didn¡¯t stop now, Bella would never return to like him.


    "Did you know your reputation out there is getting worse? Almost all media and netizens say you are a Cassanova! And that is NOT a compliment, young man!" Lewis continued.


    Tristan was speechless. He couldn¡¯t let his grandfather talk about something that wasn¡¯t true.


    "Grandpa, please stop reading gossip news. Alright, I will call you later. My date is hungry..." He said while smiling at Bella, who was still glaring at him.


    "Who? Who is the woman you are having dinner with?" Lewis asked curiously.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but take a deep sigh. He leaned closer to Bella and whispered, "Can I tell him?"


    Bella didn¡¯t have a choice. She could only nod while scolding herself for meeting him now. If she knew he had a dinner plan with his Grandpa, she would have set another day to meet him.


    "I¡¯m dating your granddaughter-in-law..." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded cheerful. But Bella felt like she wanted to disappear from that place. She couldn¡¯t believe this shameless Tristan could say that before his grandfather.


    Bella, "...."


    "Can you add ¡¯EX¡¯ before granddaughter? Or would just saying my name be nicer?" Bella wanted to say that, but hearing Lewis¡¯s response made her even more speechless.


    "Hahaha¡­ Brat, I don¡¯t believe you. There¡¯s no way Bella will meet you today; she just landed in the capital and doesn¡¯t have time to meet you. You must be trying to lie to me, right?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan took a deep breath. "Grandpa, how could I lie to you? I¡¯m not lying. I¡¯m having dinner with Bella now." He tried to convince his Grandpa.


    "You can video call me to make me believe," Lewis said and ended the call.


    Bella, "..."


    Tristan gazes apologetically at Bella.


    "It looks like we need to make a video call. You know Grandpa will bother us again if we don¡¯t do that now..." Tristan said, feeling sorry to her for his grandfather¡¯s unreasonable request. "You don¡¯t mind, right?"


    Bella could only answer him through her gaze ¡ª do whatever you want.


    It was too late to run away from this place. She had fallen into this man¡¯s trap. Earlier, he laid his trap nicely; he called her his wife in front of other people and gave her his black card. And now, he addressed her as a granddaughter-in-law in front of his grandfather without hesitation.


    Gosh!


    Bella emptied a glass of water to moisten her suddenly dry throat, preparing herself for the video call with Lewis Sinclair. When Tristan offered her his cell phone, she smiled upon seeing Lewis on the screen.


    "Hello Grandpa..." She greeted him politely.


    "Oh, Bella... Is that you? Hahaha... So Tristan is actually meeting you today?" Lewis¡¯s voice sounded excited, causing Bella to feel embarrassed. "Bella, thank you for giving my good-for-nothing grandson a chance."


    Tristan, "..."


    Bella felt a bit awkward.


    "This time, you can make him suffer first before accepting him. And if he ignores you or makes you sad again, you must tell me. I¡¯ll teach him a lesson if he does that!"


    Tristan immediately cleared his throat to stop his Grandpa from continuing his words, "Grandpa¡ª"


    Bella felt puzzled. Why did Grandpa Lewis seem to think she and Tristan would be getting back together?


    "Okay, I won¡¯t disturb your date. My dear Bella... enjoy your time," Lewis said with a wide smile. She returned his smile, even though she was confused about what had happened now.


    "Bella, please give the phone to Tristan." After Tristan took his cell phone, Lewis warned him, "Brat, do NOT mess with Bella. If you even slightly upset her this time, I will come to you and break your leg MYSELF!"


    Before Tristan could say anything, Lewis ended the call.

 Chapter 64: Tristan Sincerely Apologized

    At Mogul Mega Mall, in the basement parking lot,


    Dylan sat behind the wheel of a luxury black Mercedes van, looking bored. At the same time, Max, who sat beside him, busy typing on his laptop, seemed oblivious to Dylan¡¯s boredom.


    An hour had passed, and Tristan had not given any instructions. Increasingly agitated, Dylan wonders if Tristan has forgotten about them for a cozy dinner with his ex-wife.


    Glancing over at Max, Dylan breaks the silence. "Man, you finished clear boss picture!?"


    "I did," Max replied absentmindedly, his fingers dancing across the keyboard, his attention divided between Dylan and a heated exchange with his online gaming buddy.


    [X4D] Wanna play?


    [Bitter_Coffee] Nah, man. On duty.


    [X4D] Seriously? It¡¯s Friday night! No one works on Friday nights!


    [X4D] Just one game, come on.


    [X4D] I¡¯m dying of boredom waiting here.


    [Bitter_Coffee] Who are you waiting for? Your gaming buddy?


    [X4D] Nah, a stunning girl (peace emoji)


    [Bitter_Coffee] Damn! You got a date, bro?


    [Bitter_Coffee] Seriously? Seriously?


    [X4D] Are you playing or not?


    Max sighed. His mood plummeted as he read X4D¡¯s response. Even his gaming buddy has found love, leaving him as the single dog in a romantic relationship.


    X4D had a girl. His boss was probably going to return to his ex-wife. Max¡¯s mind turned to Dylan.


    ¡¯Does Dylan have a girl?¡¯ he wondered, unable to contain his curiosity anymore. He asked, "Dylan, do you have a girlfriend?"


    Dylan blinked in surprise at Max¡¯s sudden question. "Why the sudden interest, Max? Are you trying to set me up or something like that?"


    Max shook his head and glanced at his computer screen once more. Observing his gaming buddy, now logged out, he also decided to close his laptop.


    "Man, I¡¯m in a good mood now. Looks like you and I are still solo," Max chuckled, noting Dylan¡¯s sour expression.


    "Speaking of our single life... it seems our boss will return to his ex-wife. Our days of misery might finally be over," Dylan said.


    "Yeah, that¡¯s a good sign, right!? It means we¡¯ll have more time alone without work..."


    "Oops! Speak about it. The boss just texted..." Dylan immediately checked his cell phone.


    "Huh!? He wants us to head over to his new place and wait," he said, glancing at Max.


    "You mean his place in Little Heaven?"


    "Yeah."


    "Well, well! It looks like he¡¯s making moves now..." Max laughed, remembering how his boss quickly instructed Dylan to clean the house because he was also planning to move there.


    ****


    While in the VVIP room of the Steak House restaurant.


    The arrival of the waiter serving their dinner broke the awkward silence between Bella and Tristan after Lewis Sinclair hung up the phone.


    But not long after, Bella was stunned when she saw Tristan quickly cut the meat on his plate and replace it with the plate in front of her.


    Never before had Bella witnessed such a gesture from Tristan during their marriage.


    ¡¯Geez... This man is really trying hard to impress me,¡¯ Bella thought, holding back her laugh. She simply murmured, "Thank you." And start eating her steak.


    Not long after, Tristan saw Bella¡¯s plate was almost empty, "Can we talk now?" he asked.


    Bella wiped her lips with a napkin before she nodded slowly in response.


    When Tristan saw Bella finally relaxed, not nervous like before, he asked, "What¡¯s our son¡¯s name?"


    "Daxton Donovan," a faint smile appeared on the corner of her lips when she remembered her sweet son, Dax. She really wanted to go home now.


    "Why didn¡¯t you use my name?" Tristan¡¯s voice sounded calm, but Bella could see the disappointment through his gaze.


    "Did you forget that we are divorced?" Bella took a deep breath before continuing. "How can I use your last name? We¡¯re not married anymore, Tristan."


    Tristan¡¯s hands clenched into tight fists, remembering what had happened five years ago. The pain he inflicted on her lingered heavily in his mind. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m sorry for what I did in the past, Bella..." Tristan paused, noticing her lowering her head to avoid his gaze. "I know my parents weren¡¯t kind to you, and I chose to ignore it, allowing them to hurt you..."


    Bella took a deep breath, trying to ease the tightness in her chest before responding, "It¡¯s okay, I forgive you. That¡¯s all in the past. I¡¯d rather not dwell on those memories..."


    "Thank you, Bella," Her forgiveness eased his heart slightly. Yet, a troubling thought nagged at him.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t suppress his curiosity any longer. He asked, "Berlla, something¡¯s been bothering me... If you were pregnant, why agree to the divorce? Surely you knew why we divorced, right?"


    Bella was taken aback by his question. Slowly, she lifted her head to meet his gaze.


    "I didn¡¯t know I was pregnant at the time. When I found out, I considered telling you. However, when rumors of you with another woman surfaced, I decided to step back. I also feared facing your parents and decided to leave..." She recounted everything to him.


    Tristan listened quietly, each word piercing his heart like a knife. He felt a deep sadness imagining her struggles, regretting not being there to support her.


    After a prolonged silence, lost in their thoughts, Tristan looked at Bella again.


    "Bella, I want you and our son to return to me. I understand it may seem unreasonable, but for Dax¡¯s sake, please consider it..." His tone was gentle yet carried an undeniable urgency that unsettled her.


    Her expression shifted from calm to shock, then realization, followed by worry.


    Before she could respond, Tristan interjected, "Please, don¡¯t answer now, Bella. Take your time to think. But remember, it¡¯s for our son¡¯s sake... Daxton needs a father figure to grow up."


    Bella averted her gaze, silently releasing her frustration within her heart. This was precisely what she feared¡ªTristan using their son to influence her decision.


    Despite feeling worried, she refused to let the situation cloud her judgment. She knew she needed to answer him now.

 Chapter 65: Surprised to Find Out They Are Neighbors

    Despite feeling worried, Bella refused to let the situation cloud her judgment. She knew she needed to answer him now.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry... I can¡¯t. I¡­I just can¡¯t. I refuse to return to you, and never in a million years... I plan to return to you and your toxic parents. It¡¯s for my sanity and Dax¡¯s well-being," she stated calmly, though her heart ached with the weight of her words.


    When hearing her refusal, Tristan felt like a thousand nails stabbed his heart. However, he could only maintain his calm smile.


    He had imagined this would happen ¡ª Bella¡¯s refusal ¡ª because he knew how he and his parents had hurt her. Winning her back would not be easy. However, he would not give up easily or force her.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to respond; instead, he stared at her silently. When he noticed her eyes were slightly red, it worried him.


    "I¡¯m going to forget what you said earlier. You don¡¯t have to answer now, Bella. I will wait until you¡¯re ready..."


    "Tristan, you and I¡ª"


    "Alright, let¡¯s go home," Tristan interrupted before she could finish her sentence, rising from his seat. "It¡¯s almost nine. Our son will be worried about you..."


    Bella immediately stood up as if someone had struck her head when she heard Tristan mention ¡¯our son.¡¯ He was right. Dax must have been worried because she had left at noon and had not yet returned.


    Bella grabbed her bag and left the VIP room, finding Tristan waiting outside. When he saw her, Tristan started walking towards the entrance.


    "No need to pay," Tristan stopped her as she was about to head to the cashier.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She turned to see him with a frown on her forehead.


    "You already paid?" she asked, following him towards the elevator.


    "No, but we don¡¯t have to pay," he replied, glancing at her, who stood beside him, waiting for their elevator.


    "Why? Do you have a membership at that restaurant?"


    Tristan put his hand on his trousers and smiled upon hearing her words. He turned his gaze away from her, ignoring her curiosity.


    "Is that so!?" Bella asked again.


    "Nope. I only said today is your birthday, which happens to be the same as their restaurant¡¯s anniversary. So that¡¯s why they said we don¡¯t have to pay..." Tristan casually said with his deadpan expression. He didn¡¯t have to pay anything because he owned the restaurant. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella, "..."


    She narrowed her eyes at him.


    ¡¯Gosh! Tristan Sinclair, you are such a terrible liar!¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t believe this man was completely different from the Tristan Sinclair she had known in the past. He was cold and distant, while the man beside her was approachable and shameless.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" he chuckled as he saw her enter the elevator without a word. He also stepped into the elevator and stood behind her.


    She ignores him.


    When Bella arrived at the parking lot, Tristan followed her out of the elevator, causing Bella to stop in her tracks and look at him.


    "I will go home now, Tristan. You don¡¯t need to walk me to my car. Bye!" Bella said, walking briskly toward her car while searching for her car keys in her bag.


    However, she only took a few steps when something crossed her mind. She turned to ask Tristan but was surprised to see him already standing right behind her.


    "Why are you following me?"


    "Well, Bella... Just to let you know, I don¡¯t have my car. Dylan had already gone home driving it. So, I have to ride in your car...If you don¡¯t mind," he said with a slightly pitiful expression.


    Bella was speechless.


    She looked at him with a confused expression before saying, "Did you know that there is a thing called a cell phone? You can use it to call your driver, right?"


    "It¡¯s already very late. They¡¯re likely too close to home now."


    "How about taking a taxi?" Bella will not let him ride in her car. "I can call a taxi for you if your cell phone battery runs out." She could guess Tristan would use that excuse.


    Tristan shook his head slowly as he drew his head closer to her. He chuckled, observing how red her face had become.


    Bella was nervous and didn¡¯t dare to move. She could feel her heart stopping, worried that he would do something shameless, like kiss her.


    "How could you ask me to take a taxi? If someone knows I ride a taxi, they might try to kidnap me..." He sighs deeply, trying to look worried.


    Bella, "..."


    She couldn¡¯t win arguing with him. Not when he looked so shameless and desperate like now. And the way he gazed looked like a kitten staring lovely at her. It¡¯s just impossible to say no.


    "So¡­let me drive...." Tristan said, taking the car keys from her hand.


    "Tristan, you¡ª" Bella gritted her teeth as she followed him.


    She couldn¡¯t believe this shameless and desperate Tristan tricked her into being unable to say no again.


    Gosh!


    ...


    For the first time, Bella saw Tristan driving a car. When they were married, he always used a driver. And, sitting beside him now, she feels unreal.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything at all. She only stared at the street ahead. Hoping Tristan would drive faster to his house, and then she would drive herself to her house.


    However, after a few minutes leaving Mogul Mega Mall, Bella realized that Tristan was actually driving towards Little Heaven, her house.


    She can¡¯t help but ask, "Do you know where you are going? Did you take the wrong road?"


    "Yes and no," Tristan said, "Why?" he asked while glancing at her.


    "Even though I haven¡¯t been to your house for a long time, I still remember the way..."


    "Ah, I have moved..." Tristan said, taking a deep breath and gazing again at the street ahead. "My wife sold our marital house. That¡¯s why I moved." He said in his pitiful tone.


    Bella, "..."

 Chapter 66: She Can’t Avoid Him

    "Ah, I have moved..." Tristan said, taking a deep breath and gazing again at the street ahead. "My wife sold our marital house. That¡¯s why I moved." He said in his pitiful tone.


    Bella, "..."


    "You are joking, right?"


    "No, I¡¯m not joking. Do I look like I¡¯m joking?" he asked with his innocent expression.


    Bella was puzzled. She wondered whether Tristan was just joking around or telling the truth.


    ¡¯Gosh! This man is bizarre...¡¯ She could only vent her frustration in her mind while occasionally stealing a glance at him.


    Before long...


    Bella felt goosebumps when she saw the car finally enter the Little Heaven main gate.


    "Tristan, don¡¯t tell me... You also stay at Little Heaven?"


    "Mmmm¡­" Said Tristan before looking at her and nodded.


    She opened her mouth, but no words came out.


    "No way!! You also live here? Really?" He asked, surprised.


    Bella, "...."


    "Oh, come on¡­ Mr. Sinclair, you don¡¯t have to pretend. I know you already knew that." Bella shook her head slightly when she saw him smile. "Tristan, you can drive to your house now. I will drive myself after that. I don¡¯t want Dax to see us together..."


    Tristan stepped on the brakes, and the car stopped suddenly.


    "W-Why you stop?" She asked in suprised. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He didn¡¯t answer but looked at her thoughtfully, causing Bella to worry as she met his cold but sharp gaze.


    "I hope you¡¯ll allow me to meet our son, Bella..." Tristan said. He couldn¡¯t let Sean have a close relationship with his son while he, as a father, never met Dax.


    There was no reason for Bella not to allow him to meet Dax. But she had to ask Dax first. "I will. But I have to ask Dax first..."


    "Thank you," Mixed feelings now spread in Tristan¡¯s heart, between tension, fear, and excitement about meeting his son.


    Tristan restarted the car engine, and his tense expression gave way to a warm smile. Even though Bella refuses to return to him now, she allows him to meet their son. This is a good sign.


    Not long after,


    The car stopped right in front of Bella¡¯s house. It made her surprised.


    "Tristan, why did you stop here?" Bella looked at him, confused. "You can drive to your house first. I can drive here again."


    "No need. I can walk from here," he said, taking off his seatbelt and smiling at her.


    "Seriously? Where?"


    "Over there..." Tristan pointed to the enormous house next to her Grandfather¡¯s house.


    Bella, "...."


    "Alright, you have to go home. It¡¯s too late," Tristan said. However, before opening the door, he turned again to Bella. "Don¡¯t make me wait too long, Bella. I need to meet our son sooner..."


    "Hmm, no worries."


    Bella took a deep breath as she watched Tristan leave the car. Seeing his back disappear from sight, she felt her heart ache for some unknown reason. She didn¡¯t understand why she felt this way.


    She immediately moved behind the wheel after trying to calm her heart and mind. When the car passed the guard post, a guard stopped her vehicle.


    "Ms. Donovan, I¡¯m sorry to stop you. A few minutes ago, someone delivered several shopping bags. They said these were yours." The guard pointed to the shopping bags lined up on the guard table.


    Only then did Bella remember her clothes and Dax.


    "Yes, they¡¯re mine. Can you help me put them in the back?" she asked.


    While the guard placed all the bags in the back row, she took out her cell phone and texted Tristan.


    [Bella: ] Thank you. I have received the shopping bags.


    [Bella: ] And I will return your card when we meet again.


    [Tristan: ] No need to return the card. Keep it for our son¡¯s needs.


    Even though she didn¡¯t want Tristan¡¯s money to raise Dax, she couldn¡¯t refuse it. Tristan had the right to pay for Dax¡¯s expenses. But for her needs, she couldn¡¯t accept his money because they no longer had a relationship.


    She typed again and sent it,


    [Bella: ] Well, Tristan, I actually used your card to buy my clothes.


    [Bella: ] Can you send me your bank account? I will return your money.


    Tristan, who was walking into his yard, suddenly stopped. A warm smile appeared on the corner of his lips as he read her text message.


    He remembered asking Max to block Bella from using her own card when she had been shopping at Flyte earlier.


    Tristan replies to her message immediately and walks inside his house in a good mood.


    ...


    Bella was speechless reading the short message from Tristan.


    [Tristan: ] No need. Just consider it as my gift because you gave birth to our son. (Love Emoji)


    "This man¡ª" she muttered to herself. Utterly speechless.


    When Bella arrived home, she saw Nick and Noora waiting for her in front of the main door.


    "Dax and Grandpa?" Bella asked Noora, who opened the car door for her.


    "They already sleep."


    Bella looked at her watch and smiled when she realized it was already past ten o¡¯clock.


    "Young Miss, will you use this car again tomorrow? Or do you want to change to another car?" asked Nick, who was preparing to park the vehicle in the basement.


    Bella turned to Nick. "No. I like this car. I¡¯ll just use this..." she said and entered the house, with Noora following close behind.


    "Young Miss, didn¡¯t your office give you a car?" Noora asked as they walked to the second floor.


    "They did, along with a driver, but I won¡¯t use it until Monday. Tomorrow, I will only visit the company to check the situation and meet my new assistant."


    "That¡¯s good to hear. I was worried you¡¯d tire of driving from here to the office..." Noora expressed her concern for Bella.


    "Mmmmm¡­..It would be tiring to drive alone there," Bella sighed deeply. She had planned to live in the penthouse above her office to avoid commuting and spend more time with Dax. But because she decided to move here, she would deal with it later.


    However, something else added to her worries. Tristan Sinclair, the person she wanted to avoid while living in this city, became her next-door neighbor.


    She didn¡¯t expect this. But she can¡¯t avoid him, too.


    Sigh!

 Chapter 67: Phone Call From Sean

    The next day.


    When Bella woke up in the morning, she was shocked to find that she had received a missed call from Sean.


    She immediately dialed the number but only felt disappointed when she heard a familiar female voice, "The number you dialed cannot be contacted."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but take a deep breath while sitting on the edge of the bed. She rubbed her face, feeling guilty she missed his call.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Sean... I¡¯m sorry... I didn¡¯t hear your call."


    Last night, she silenced her cell phone because she was worried that Tristan would contact her in the morning.


    Bella continued checking to see if there were any other messages from Sean.


    It didn¡¯t take long for her to find his text message. Her eyes lit up again, and a small smile graced her face.


    [Sean: ] Sorry, I can only contact you now (Sorry emoji)


    [Sean: ] I know you must be asleep because, in Astington, it¡¯s already three in the morning.


    [Sean: ] I just wanted to let you know I¡¯m safe now. But in a matter of hours, I will be in a very remote place again.


    [Sean: ] It¡¯s very remote that telephone connection is impossible there. I¡¯m sorry. But don¡¯t worry about me. I will be fine.


    [Sean: ] (Smile emoji)


    [Sean: ] I really miss you, Bella. Anytime there is a chance, I will contact you.


    [Sean: ] (Love Emoji)


    Just reading Sean¡¯s text messages could warm Bella¡¯s heart.


    She couldn¡¯t hide her happiness. A smile spread across her face as she read the message repeatedly until she memorized all the text.


    "I hope you can return soon and safe, Sean..." Bella muttered softly as she put her cell phone on the nightstand.


    Upon seeing the clock, she was stunned to realize it was almost 8 AM, and she was still in her pajamas.


    Bella didn¡¯t have much time as she had already informed Jack that she would arrive at her office at nine.


    She immediately went to the bathroom to clean herself and prepare to visit her office after breakfast.


    In just a few minutes, Bella wore her casual clothes ¡ª a black turtleneck and A-line midi skirt. She tied her long black hair into a ponytail. After she grabbed her bag and long coat, she headed to Dax¡¯s room.


    When Bella arrived at Dax¡¯s room, she didn¡¯t find him. Instead, she met Noora, who had just climbed halfway up the stairs to the second floor.


    Bella stopped at the top of the stairs, waiting for her.


    "Good morning, young miss," Noora greeted Bella with a smile. "I was just about to wake you up for breakfast..."


    "Well, you should have woken me up earlier, Aunty. I¡¯m late now."


    "Sorry," Noora grinned. She felt bad for waking her early because last night, she knew Bella couldn¡¯t sleep at all.


    "It¡¯s fine... I won¡¯t have breakfast now. I have to go," Bella said as she continued walking down the stairs.


    "Miss, young Master Dax is already downstairs with the Old Master and¡ª" Noora¡¯s voice halted abruptly.


    Bella frowned, stopping right in front of Noora. "What happened, Aunty!?" she asked, confused, noticing Noora¡¯s awkward pause.


    "Young Miss, Old Master Sinclair is downstairs. He arrived a few minutes ago and is now having breakfast with Young Master Dax and the Old Master," Noora explained.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. Although she already knew Lewis would visit Dax today, she didn¡¯t expect him to come so early in the morning.


    A faint smile graced Bella¡¯s lips as she walked toward the dining room. She faintly heard Dax¡¯s cheerful laughter.


    Bella feels grateful, knowing Dax wouldn¡¯t be lonely anymore. While she had to work in the office and couldn¡¯t always be with him, his two great-grandfathers would accompany him daily. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella arrived in the dining room, Dax greeted her with a beaming gaze. "Good morning, Mommy," his voice rang out, drawing the attention of Lewis and Isaac, who smiled softly and asked her to join them.


    Nick swiftly pulled out a chair for Bella next to Dax. After explaining the breakfast menu, he disappeared into the kitchen.


    Bella smiled warmly at the two elders and greeted them politely.


    "Good morning, my dear Bella. You look much fresher and more beautiful this morning, dear," Lewis Sinclair said with an exciting and joyful tone and look. Anyone who looked at him right now could see how happy he was.


    Since last night, Lewis had wanted to come to chat with Isaac about Bella and Tristan¡¯s dating. That¡¯s why, after waking up, he came straight here without breakfast.


    Bella felt awkward at Lewis¡¯s excessive praise. "Thanks, Grandpa Lewis. You also look healthy," she said, then gazed at Isaac.


    "Grandpa, I will visit my office today. I hope you can help me play with Dax. I won¡¯t stay there for too long; I¡¯ll return home soon." She had actually informed her grandpa about her plans for the day, but she worried he might have forgotten.


    "Sure, dear... Don¡¯t worry about Dax," Isaac reassured her while placing the cutlery on his empty plate. He continued, "We already have plans for today. Right, Dax?" He smiled meaningfully at Dax.


    "Yes, Grandpa," Dax nodded.


    "Thank you, Grandpa." Bella smiles. Then, she whispers to Dax, "Baby, I hope you can enjoy your time with Grandpa while Mommy works."


    "Hmm, I will," Dax reassured his mom. "Grandpa and I will go to the beach..."


    "I¡¯m glad to hear that. But make sure you don¡¯t play in the water. The water is still cold, and you can¡¯t swim," Bella said, concerned.


    She looked at her grandpa again. "Grandpa, Dax can¡¯t swim. Please don¡¯t take him on a boat. You can only take him for a walk on the beach..."


    Lewis was still surprised to hear that Bella was working and even more surprised that his great-grandson couldn¡¯t swim.


    "Dax can¡¯t swim yet?" Lewis couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    "Yes, Grandpa Lewis. We didn¡¯t have a swimming pool at our cabin. We only have a lake, but Mommy didn¡¯t allow me to swim there¡ª" Dax said casually.


    Bella remained silent, feeling the sharp gaze of both of them now fixed on her.

 Chapter 68: The Truth About Bella’s Company

    Bella remained silent, feeling the sharp gaze of both of them now fixed on her.


    ¡¯Gosh, Dax! Can you not expose me again!?¡¯ Bella sighed deeply while maintaining her smile before she started eating her breakfast.


    Isaac Donovan smiled at Bella, trying to ignore them. He couldn¡¯t blame her for being too protective of Dax. She had never taken Dax out of the small village where they had lived for five years, fearing that Sinclair would find out about him.


    Isaac cleared his throat to break the awkward silence and told Dax, "When it gets warmer, I can teach you how to swim in the backyard pool."


    Dax, looking at Isaac with a calm expression. "It¡¯s fine, Gramps. I don¡¯t really like physical outdoor sports. I prefer indoor activities, like playing chess or disassembling and assembling any electrical and computer instruments¡­"


    Bella, "..."


    She remained silent, merely continuing to eat her breakfast while listening to their conversation.


    When she finished and wanted to excuse herself to go to the office, Lewis asked for a moment to chat alone.


    "Don¡¯t worry, dear... I only need five minutes. You won¡¯t be late to go to your office," Lewis assured her when he saw her checking her watch.


    Bella smiled and nodded. She could see worry flash through Lewis¡¯s gaze, causing her own concern to rise.


    She led him to her grandpa¡¯s home office. "Grandpa Lewis, is there anything you want to tell me?"


    Lewis didn¡¯t immediately speak; he only stared at Bella across from him with a concerned gaze.


    After a few seconds, Lewis finally asked, "Are you really going to work now? May I know where your work is, if you don¡¯t mind?"


    Lewis felt sorry to learn that Bella had to work again. If she needed money, he would give it to her; she didn¡¯t have to work and leave her son alone at home.


    Bella was relieved to hear Lewis¡¯s question. She had thought he would ask about her date last night with Tristan, a topic she didn¡¯t want to discuss at the moment. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, I work for a small company. You might not have heard of it. The company¡¯s name is Quantum Capital. We¡¯re relatively new here, focusing on investments in small businesses and various ventures within the country," Bella explained.


    Lewis was surprised. He had never come across the name Quantum Capital before. Given her outstanding educational background, he assumed Bella would be working for a larger multinational corporation.


    With a bachelor¡¯s degree in economics from the country¡¯s top university and a scholarship to Stanford University for her Master of Business Administration, he expected her to be involved with a more prominent firm. But he was wrong.


    ¡¯Why did she choose to work for a small company? Why not assist Donovan Group instead?¡¯ Lewis pondered.


    "Yes, you are right, my dear. I have never heard of that company in all my time in this industry. They must be relatively new in this country..."


    Bella smiled inwardly; she purposely did not mention the name of her holding company, RDF Group.


    RDF Group was the holding company she, Jack, and Harper founded. On the other hand, Quantum Capital was one of the new venture subsidiaries established by Jack in this country a year before her divorce from Tristan. She preferred not to disclose her involvement with RDF Group as one of the shareholders since she wasn¡¯t actively involved in the company¡¯s management.


    "Yes, the company is still relatively new. They established their presence in this country about six to seven years ago," she replied calmly.


    "Oh, my dear, Bella... I feel sorry that you have to work for someone else. Have you considered starting your own business? I can provide you with capital if you need it. You don¡¯t have to work for others," Lewis suggested.


    Bella sighed silently.


    She actually didn¡¯t need to work to earn income because she had enough money to enjoy her entire life with Dax without working, just enjoying the dividend she got from RDF Group.


    But that shameless Jack Foster tricked her. She had no choice but to return to this country and take over the company because she had already promised him.


    And now, Lewis¡¯s offer left her speechless.


    She was torn between revealing the truth about RDF Group, one of the top ten global investment companies, or keeping it low profile.


    After taking a moment to consider her options, she decided it was best to keep a low profile.


    If she were to reveal the truth about her company, it could attract unwanted attention from her greedy uncle and father. They might ask to invest in the Donovan Group. Still, she would never approve of it, especially while the company remains under the control of her first uncle, Jacob Donovan.


    "Grandpa, thank you so much for your offer. I truly appreciate it," Bella said sincerely. "But I can¡¯t accept. I¡¯ve already committed to helping this company grow in this country by signing a contract with them." This is the best reason she could give him to stop asking her to quit working.


    There was a hint of disappointment in Lewis Sinclair¡¯s eyes when he heard Bella¡¯s refusal. But, a moment later, he smiled as he realized he couldn¡¯t force her to accept his offer.


    "I understand. But don¡¯t hesitate to contact me if you encounter any issues at your company, Bella..." Lewis Sinclair said earnestly. "Even though I¡¯ve retired from Sinclair Corp, I still hold a majority share in the company so that I can offer assistance."


    Bella smiled, touched by his sincere offer. "I¡¯ll remember that, Grandpa Lewis."


    "Very well," Lewis Sinclair stood from his seat. "I won¡¯t keep you any longer. You can go now; I hope you haven¡¯t missed your appointment..."


    Bella nodded slightly and left the room, searching for Dax to bid him farewell. She found him in the front yard with Noora, who seemed to be waiting for her.


    "Baby..." Bella hugged him. After planting many kisses on his cheek, she said, "Mommy will be back before you know it. Be a good boy for your Gramps and Grandpa Lewis, alright?"


    "Hmm, I sure will, mommy..." A sweet smile graced his adorable face, melting Bella¡¯s heart and causing her to regret accepting Jack¡¯s offer to take over Quantum Capital ¡ª she just wanted to cuddle and play with her baby.

 Chapter 69: Shocked To Know Her Assistant

    A few minutes after her car left the Little Heaven estate, Bella¡¯s phone rang. When she saw the caller, a faint smile graced her face.


    Without hesitation, she accepted the call, "Morning Boss..." She greeted Jack Foster cheerfully.


    "Morning Bella. You¡¯re visiting the office today, right!?" Jack¡¯s voice sounded impatient from the other end, making her laugh.


    "Oh, please, Boss... You sound like my ex-in-law. "


    "I¡¯m serious..."


    "I¡¯m driving to the office. Did you call me just to ask that? Why do you sound so impatient, Boss? Is there something waiting for me at the office?" She started to grow suspicious of him.


    "Hahaha, no... nothing. Well, I just wanted to make sure you¡¯re on your way to the office to let your assistant know..."


    "Who the hell is that person? Give me his name now!"


    "You will see him later. I will inform your assistant to wait for you in the lobby," Jack responded, ignoring her question.


    "Damn it, Jack! You sound odd..." Bella took a deep breath as she stepped on the brake, arriving at a red light.


    "No, I¡¯m not," He promptly answered with a chuckle. "Well, I just want to make sure you guys meet. That¡¯s why I need to check your position..."


    Bella gripped the steering wheel tighter when something crossed her mind. "Why are you hiding his identity? Don¡¯t tell me... you sent my mortal enemy as my assistant?"


    "Alright, this is silly now. I should end this call. Bye, Bella..."


    Beep!


    Bella was speechless.


    She started to feel her blood running cold when her mind told her that the person she thought was the one Jack assigned to become her assistant.


    "No! It¡¯s impossible for him to move to this country. Besides, he didn¡¯t like me..." Bella talked to herself, trying to convince herself that the person would not accept working with her because they were like fire and water, never matching.


    ...


    The road wasn¡¯t as busy as on a weekday. Bella drove at a moderate speed and still arrived at her destination on time.


    The vehicle passed the main business street, driving two blocks south.


    Not long after, Bella saw from a distance a modern 20th-floor building with a Quantum Capital sign. Even though the Quantum Capital building wasn¡¯t on the main business street, it still looked new and magnificent.


    Looking at the building made her proud. She never imagined the company she, Jack, and Harper founded could grow this fast after twelve years.


    As she drove into the building, she noticed the front yard had about five unoccupied parking spaces. She quickly decided to park her car in one of these spots.


    However, a security guard approached her quickly before she had time to turn off the car engine. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ma¡¯am, sorry... you can¡¯t park here," said the security guard. "You can park your car in the parking lot in the basement."


    "Why? This parking lot is empty," she asked, confused.


    "This is a special parking area for company executives, ma¡¯am," the guard said.


    "Ah..." Bella smiled, realizing that this parking lot was exclusive to the big bosses. And it just so happened that no one knew her identity.


    Looking at the tall, sturdy security guard, Bella said, "Can you let me park here since it¡¯s the weekend?"


    "I¡¯m sorry, but this parking area is only for executives. Unless you are one of them, I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯t park here, mam..." the guard said politely, pointing at the signs for the CEO, COO, and other executives.


    Bella, "..."


    She was indeed one of them. But, even if she said that this guard wouldn¡¯t believe her.


    "Sir, give me a minute to make a call..." She couldn¡¯t blame him because the guard was merely following the rules.


    The security guard raised his eyebrows when Bella took out her phone.


    "Mam, if you have an appointment with someone, you better move your car first..." The guard couldn¡¯t allow anyone to park there.


    Bella sighed deeply. She turned off the car engine and stepped out of the car.


    She stared at the guard sharply before speaking in an icy tone, "I just need to make a call. Give me one minute..."


    The guard said nothing, but his gaze clearly indicated he disapproved.


    Bella is starting to get impatient, too.


    "Well, I just want to let you know. If... you still force me, you will regret it. So you decide now."


    She regretted visiting the office today. It would have been better to come on Monday when they officially welcomed her.


    Bella didn¡¯t wait for the guard to say anything; she pressed the speed dial on her cell phone. In two rings, the phone connected. She heard Jack¡¯s confused greeting on the other end.


    "Jack, I regret coming to this office today," Bella said, smiling as she gazed at the duty guard standing a few steps before her.


    "What do you mean? Have you arrived?"


    "I can¡¯t even park my car in this building. Gosh! How troublesome."


    The guard, who heard Bella¡¯s words, frowned. He felt confused and afraid simultaneously because he didn¡¯t recognize this woman; it was the first time he saw her come to his building.


    "What the hell? Who said that?" Jack asked furiously.


    "The guard. Well... I can¡¯t blame him. He didn¡¯t know me. But, where¡¯s my damn assistant!? You said he will wait for me in the lobby!?"


    "He didn¡¯t show up? That¡¯s weird..."


    Bella opened her mouth to vent her frustration but stopped when she heard a man¡¯s voice.


    "What is it?"


    Bella turned her head to look in that direction and, shocked beyond words, saw the familiar figure standing beside the guard.


    "Damn it, Jack! Why did you send Leo Smith here?" Bella scolded Jack in a low voice. She didn¡¯t want Leo to hear her words. However, her eyes were still locked on him, who was now talking with the guard.


    "You are the one who gave me his criteria. Why are you complaining now?" Jack casually said, but Bella felt even more angry.


    "Are you crazy? He never liked me¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words when she saw Leo walk toward her after sending the guard back to his post.


    "Hi, Bella... Long time no see! Do you miss me?"


    She was left speechless, her mind blank as she gazed into his gray eyes.

 Chapter 70: Envy of His Grandpa

    The blaring ringtone of the mobile phone echoes in the pitch-black room, jolting Tristan Sinclair from his sleep. His eyes slowly opened, and a soft groan escaped his lips as he felt his entire body stiffen.


    Last night had been restless, and he had only managed to sleep a few moments before the sun began to rise.


    He tried to ignore the constant sound of the phone until it finally stopped. However, before he could return to the comfort of his bed, the phone rang again.


    "Damn it!" he sighed in frustration.


    Only a few people possessed his private cell number, and none typically called him at such an early hour. He covered his head with a pillow, trying to sleep more, but something crossed his mind.


    "Maybe it¡¯s Bella!? It must be her..." A hopeful smile tugged at the corners of his lips as Bella¡¯s image danced in his mind.


    Expectantly, he grabbed his cell phone from the bedside table. However, his smile quickly faded when he saw ¡¯Grandpa¡¯ displayed on the phone screen.


    He sighed deeply before reluctantly answering the call, "Grandfather, why did you call me so early?" he asked, his voice still heavy with sleep as he threw back the covers and got out of bed.


    Tristan¡¯s slim but muscular body is visible in several parts, only covered by black training pants hanging from his hips.


    He walked towards the window and pulled the curtains. Suddenly, sunlight came in and dazzled his eyes.


    "My lord! Brat, you said this... is it still morning? It¡¯s already 9 am, and you just woke up?" Lewis Sinclair¡¯s voice sounded annoyed from the other end.


    "Thank you for telling me that, Grandpa..." Tristan could only chuckle when he saw the bright blue sky. "Why did you call me!?"


    "Why are you still sleeping now?"


    "Come on, Grandpa, it¡¯s Saturday..." Tristan said while rubbing the back of his neck, wanting to end this conversation immediately and go back to sleep.


    After all these years, he had never felt as relaxed as he did now. It looks like dinner with Bella last night made him feel this way.


    "While you were relaxing in your house, my granddaughter-in-law had already gone to work. Such a hardworking young woman... I feel so bad for her," Lewis said in his gloomy tone, causing Tristan to be shocked.


    A frown appears on Tristan¡¯s forehead. "Bella, working? On Saturday? Why would she do that?"


    "Maybe because she needs money to raise¡ª" Lewis¡¯s words faded as he remembered he couldn¡¯t tell him about Dax ¡ª he had already promised Bella.


    "Well, my granddaughter-in-law has a hard time; she is now going to work even though today is Saturday." Lewis continues.


    Tristan took a deep breath. He was too shocked to find out that Bella had to work. The thought of her working for someone else and leaving their son home stressed him.


    ¡¯Why didn¡¯t Bella talk about this matter last night?¡¯ Tristan sighs deeply. ¡¯Looks like we should meet and talk about this...¡¯


    "Grandpa, do you know where she works?" Tristan asked calmly.


    "Have you ever heard of the company name Quantum Capital? They are a small company founded only about seven years ago." Lewis explained.


    Tristan was shocked to hear that. Of course, he knows about Quantum Capital. Even though he has never dealt directly with that company, he knows Quantum Capital has entertainment industry subsidiaries. Sinclair Corp uses their talent as their brand ambassador for one of their electronic products.


    "She works there?" Tristan asked.


    "You know about that company?"


    "Yeah, I know a few things about that company." Tristan took a deep breath.


    "Very well, you should try to approach them and make sure Bella doesn¡¯t get bad treatment there. If necessary, buy their company..." Lewis orders seriously. He also told Tristan that he had already offered Bella money to build a company for her, but she refused.


    "Okay, Grandpa. I¡¯ll take care of it. Don¡¯t get too worried about it, please. Leave it to me." Tristan said. At least he knows where she works. He will make a deal with them soon.


    "Okay, I¡¯ll leave it to you because I trust you." Lewis felt relieved.


    "By the way, Grandpa, where are you? How do you know Bella is working today?" Tristan asked, suspicious that his grandfather had met Bella this early morning.


    "I¡¯m actually at Bella¡¯s house. I missed my old friend, so I visited him."


    A faint smile appears on Tristan¡¯s face. He feels envy towards his Grandpa. His Grandpa had already met Dax a few times, but he had not yet. He still needs Dax¡¯s permission to meet. How sad!


    "Grandpa, please take care of my son," Tristan said softly as he gritted his teeth. "¡ªand speak nicely to him about me. I will meet him pretty soon..."


    Tristan¡¯s words caused Lewis to be shocked. He asked, "You already know about your son, Dax? Bella finally told you?"


    Tristan could only shake his head. On day one of Bella¡¯s return to this country, he already knows about Dax.


    "Hmm. Bella told me about Dax last night. Grandpa, please make sure Dax likes me... I mean, I have considered every option to get Bella back. And only through Dax, my son, I can make Bella return to our family."


    "You brat!! We are like this because of you and your egotistical, foolish parents..." Lewis vented his anger again, remembering how Tristan agreed to divorce Bella five years ago. "If you had not divorced her, she would still be with us, and your son would carry our family name, my name!" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lewis sighed deeply before ending the call, "Alright, you make me upset now. I better go. I have to play with my baby Dax... Bye!"


    Beep!


    Tristan closes his eyes, simultaneously feeling sad and envious of his Grandpa. He wanted to go to Bella¡¯s house and hug his son. But he feared that coming suddenly like that would scare Dax and anger Bella. No. He will wait until Bella allows him to meet Dax. It¡¯s not just Dax that he wants.


    He also wants Bella back.

 Chapter 71: First Crush

    While at the Quantum Capital building.


    "Hi, Bella... Long time no see! Do you miss me?"


    Bella was left speechless, her mind blank as she gazed into Leo Smith¡¯s gray eyes.


    This man was her first crush. She fell for him the first day they met when she saw his eyes; they shared similar eye colors. However, this man is also the first to reject her feelings.


    Since then, she has always avoided him. Because of him, she decided not to be involved in the company and returned to Astington.


    However, Bella never imagined her return to Astington, only to make her life suffer even more because her family arranged a marriage for her with Tristan. And she was stupid enough to accept it.


    She shook her head slightly, trying to forget her stupid past ¡ª only thinking about her past enough to make her heart tighten again.


    Gosh!


    Now, she can¡¯t avoid him.


    ¡¯How could this man become my assistant now!?¡¯


    Bella took a deep sigh before returning her gaze to Leo again.


    "Why did you suddenly appear here!?" She asked, pretending she didn¡¯t know.


    Perhaps if she greeted him coldly, he would return to New York. This is her prayer. However, God rejected her prayer, as this man would not leave her side.


    Leo smiled faintly as he casually put his hand inside his coat pocket.


    "Jack didn¡¯t tell you?"


    "Tell me what?"


    "Well, I actually agree to become your assistant. So from now on, you become my Boss, Boss."


    Bella opened her mouth to say something, but Leo stopped her.


    "Boss, let¡¯s go inside. It would be best to familiarize yourself with your office before you start Monday. Let¡¯s go!" he said, walking to the main entrance. He didn¡¯t give Bella a chance to say something.


    Bella had no choice but to follow him inside while she took her cell phone and texted Jack. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Bella: ] You better call him back to New York!


    [Bella: ] If you tried to be a matchmaker, forget it! We will never match. So how could you make him become my assistant?


    [Bella: ] (Devil emoji)


    She sends the text and walks over to follow Leo. When Bella finally entered the lobby, she was amazed; she felt like she had entered the five-star hotel lobby.


    The exterior of the building appeared plain and unremarkable. Still, upon entering the lobby, it became apparent that the interior was quite lavish. The lobby was adorned with numerous seating areas and contemporary furniture.


    She also spotted a coffee shop and restaurant on the opposite side of the lobby.


    "Boss, you don¡¯t have to use an employee elevator. But take this executive elevator instead. The executive elevator will lead you directly to the 19th and 20th floors." Leo explained.


    "How about my identity card? I need it to enter this building, too?" She asked while glancing at the guards standing in a few spots. She didn¡¯t want them to stop her again, like what happened in the parking area earlier.


    "Oh, you don¡¯t have to use an ID card, Boss. I already sent your recent picture to them and asked the guard to memorize your face. No one will stop you from entering this building," he said.


    Leo stopped right before the elevator and turned to face Bella.


    "However, if someone still stops you. You can fire them! You have the right to do so. This is your company, after all." Leo said with a deadpan expression while gesturing for her to enter the elevator.


    Bella was speechless, looking at how casually he said those words. When she was about to say something, her cell phone vibrated.


    She saw a text from Jack.


    [Jack: ] What do you mean?


    [Jack: ] Of course, you both match to each other.


    [Bella: ] !?


    [Jack: ] He is different now.


    [Bella: ] No, he is not! He looks the last time I saw him. Cold and handsome as fuck!


    [Jack: ] LOL


    [Jack: ] He is also solo now. The same as you.


    [Jack: ] (Smile emoji)


    [Bella: ] What are you trying to say?


    [Jack: ] You are single. He is also single.


    [Jack: ] You liked him once. And you might still like him. And he might like you back...


    [Jack: ] Keep fighting, my dear Bella!!


    [Jack: ] This time, he might accept your heart (Smile emoji)


    [Bella: ] FU!


    She threw her cell phone in her bag and cursed Jack in her mind. How could he try to match her with Leo!? Did he think he was Tinder or something? Did Jack lose his mind?


    Sigh!


    "You didn¡¯t like this building?" Suddenly, Leo¡¯s voice echoes, surprising Bella. She looks at him with her awkward-looking gaze.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to respond. She simply gazed at the elevator numbers. The doors slid open when the elevator finally stopped on the 19th floor. She immediately stepped out, feeling relieved.


    Being in the same elevator as Leo after reading a short message from Jack made her feel awkward. Just thinking of Leo being her co-worker every day made him feel exhausted.


    After feeling slightly calm, she glances at him, "I like this place. So this our office?"


    Bella looked at the lavish floor decorated with minimalist and modern furniture. The entire floor is decorated with gold and pastel ornament.


    "Yes. This entire floor is only for you and a few of your staff; I will introduce them to you on Monday. They will occupy the room over there. While your office¡ª" Leo continues to explain to her while Bella follows him for the room tour.


    Before long, they finally entered her office room.


    Bella liked her office; the simple and minimalist interior with soft, natural colors dominated the room. There¡¯s a long wooden table and a CEO chair near the massive glass wall with a city view. Opposite her office desk is a seating area with a custom sofa.


    After briefly checking her new office room, Bella asked Leo to join her in the seating area. She needs to talk to him ¡ª Try to send him back to New York.


    "Why did you agree to move here? Did you fight with Jack?" she asked earnestly. Bella thought that was the only reason that could make Leo leave the head office to move here.

 Chapter 72: Stellar Entertainment

    "Why did you agree to move here? Did you fight with Jack?" she asked earnestly. Bella thought that was the only reason that could make Leo leave the head office to move here.


    "It looks like Jack hasn¡¯t told you¡ª" Leo sighed deeply.


    "So you did fight with him?" Bella was suprised. She is starting to be afraid what she said was true.


    Leo shook his head before saying, "Of course not. I just broke up with my girlfriend. I couldn¡¯t stay there because she would come back after me, so I immediately agreed when Jack offered me to become your assistant."


    Bella, "..."


    She didn¡¯t expect him to move here just because of his breakup.


    Gosh, this man was odd.


    Bella can¡¯t send him back to New York now. She had only prepared herself to work with him.


    ¡¯Ugh... well... at least you no longer see him like you did a few years ago. Just bear with his eccentric personality, and you will be fine...¡¯ She reminded herself.


    ...


    "And you, why you suddently return to the company?" Leo narrowed his eyes at her.


    He knew Bella never wanted to be involved in management because she had a rich husband. That¡¯s why she always refused to come back.


    However, two years ago, he heard she finally agreed to return and take over their business in this country.


    "Because that foolish Jack forced me..." Bella wanted to say that but stopped, remembering that Leo would lecture her with his wisdom. Gosh! S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She smiled at him before asking, "You know I¡¯m a single mother, right?"


    Leo¡¯s calm expression changed instantly. He sat up straight and looked at Bella in shock. "Y-You... you have a child?"


    "Hmm, I have a son. That¡¯s why I need to earn money. And Jack offered me a decent amount of money to care for our business in this country. So yeah¡ª" She didn¡¯t continue her words, just shrugged her shoulders with a faint smile across her face.


    Leo was lost for words hearing that. He knew that Bella was divorced but had never heard that she actually had a son with her ex-husband.


    He narrowed his eyes, trying to understand her feelings now. But looking at how calm she was caused him to be curious about something. After a while, he asked, "Wasn¡¯t your ex-husband wealthy? Why did you divorce him!?"


    "Yeah, he is indeed super rich," Bella said, slightly shaking her head. She didn¡¯t want to talk about Tristan now. "Leo, even though my ex was wealthy, it wasn¡¯t the reason for me to stay with him if we had no destiny to be together. I didn¡¯t need his wealth to raise my son. Because I can earn myself¡ª"


    "No. That¡¯s not what I mean," Leo stopped her. "¡ªif you had a child, why divorce? Did he mistreat you?"


    "Leo, can we drop talking about this?" Bella faintly said. Then, she took a deep breath to lessen her tightened chest. "Let¡¯s talk about the company. Give me a summary of what you found in a few days of working here."


    Leo¡¯s angry expression returned to calm. His professional attitude no longer overshadowed his annoyance hearing that one of his best friends seemed to have been hurt by her ex-husband.


    He began to tell Bella what he had discovered working five days at this company.


    So many problems he found occurred in this company, causing it never to achieve the target from the main office, even though it has been here for more than six years.


    Bella listened to Leo¡¯s report seriously. Before long, Leo finally finished his report.


    "Look like the problem here was the same as I predicted..." Bella said softly.


    "Indeed. There are too many corrupt executives in Quantum Capital. And, as the new CEO of Quantum Capital, you will have a hard time dealing with them..."


    "I know. I already predicted that¡ª" Bella smiled bitterly. From Jack¡¯s report, she could see this company seems to have many problems.


    "Boss, don¡¯t worry... I¡¯m here to help. Let¡¯s clean up this sick company and make Jack happy," Leo said confidently.


    "Hahaha, you¡¯re right. Ah, Leo... can you give me a complete report on the problematic subsidiary? I want to learn it before my official meeting with the Directors."


    "I¡¯ve put it on your desk. You can read it."


    "Thank you." She said while standing from her seat to check the report.


    "Bella, about your apartment upstairs, I actually moved in there. Because Jack said you wouldn¡¯t use that place. I hope you don¡¯t mind."


    She glanced at Leo, "Sure, you can stay there. I indeed decided to stay with my grandpa. What about my driver?"


    "He will come today. You can talk with him later."


    "Thanks," Bella said. Then, she dismissed Leo to leave her alone.


    After she saw Leo leave the room, she started reading all the reports on her desk.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long before Bella was surprised by what she found out. They have a subsidiary company named Stellar Entertainment.


    What surprised her even more was when she saw the name of one of the talents in the company, that homewrecker, Laura Kiels. Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh to find this.


    ¡¯How could that woman work in my company?¡¯ She hadn¡¯t predicted this. She thought a top supermodel turned movie star came from a powerful Entertainment agency. Still, it turned out Stellar Entertainment founded her.


    "Gosh! This would be funny if I confronted her, right!? Ugh, if I did that, someone would be angry..." Her mind is naturally filled with Tristan; he might be angry if she confronts his woman.


    Bella shook her head slightly, trying to dismiss Laura Kiels and Tristan from her mind. She continued to check why Stellar Entertainment never achieved its target when they had supermodel and top movie star Laura Kiels as their talent.


    She was immersed again in reading the report.


    Too serious with her work till she forgot about time. She even forgot about lunch and only got up from her chair after she heard a knock on the door.


    "Yes," Bella said, stretching her hand while gazing at the door.

 Chapter 73: Someone She Wants To Avoid

    "Bella, can I enter?" Leo¡¯s voice could be heard behind the door.


    "Sure."


    Leo looks concerned as he enters the room, stopping before her messy desk with papers and notes.


    "Don¡¯t force yourself. It¡¯s almost 2 PM... You should take a break, Boss." He said.


    "Yeah, you are right. I feel hungry now; how about going out to eat something?"


    "Alright. But you need to meet your personal assistant first. He already waits outside."


    "Hmm," she said and tidied her desk before grabbing her bag and following Leo out of her office.


    Bella spotted a man standing near the sitting area with a sturdy posture resembling an active soldier¡¯s. His face appeared fierce, but his eyes conveyed calmness and friendliness.


    Approaching him, Leo said, "Boss, this is Samuel Brown, a former Astington soldier who retired several years ago. He¡¯s actually the head of the security division at our head office. Still, Jack assigned him here to protect you, and he¡¯s also assigned as your personal assistant who will follow you wherever you go..."


    Bella was rendered speechless upon hearing Samuel¡¯s background.


    How could someone as capable as him now become her personal assistant, driving her wherever she goes? What was Jack thinking? Why waste Samuel¡¯s talent and usefulness?


    She could only vent her frustration internally while making a mental note to call Jack later.


    Bella smiled at Samuel, extending her hand for a handshake. "Hello, Mr. Brown. I¡¯m glad you¡¯re back in this country to help me." She said sincerely, feeling grateful this capable man would become her guard.


    "Ms. Donovan, yes, I¡¯m grateful to Mr. Foster for assigning me here to assist you, ma¡¯am," Samuel Brown said politely, accepting her handshake. "Ma¡¯am, you can call me casually, Sam."


    "Hahaha, alright... I will call you Sam." Bella gestured for him to sit as they discussed his role in assisting her personal needs.


    She also wanted to learn about Sam¡¯s other talents besides guarding her, so they chatted briefly about his assignment.


    After some time, she remembered his accommodation.


    "Did the company provide a place for you to stay?" Bella asked. She didn¡¯t mind offering him a place; she still had her old apartment, and he could stay there if he wished.


    "Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am. I live in this building," Sam explained. "There¡¯s a studio-size apartment on the rooftop."


    "Very well," Bella felt relieved. After discussing a few more things with him, she dismissed Sam and told him to start working on Monday.


    Later, she and Leo left the building. They didn¡¯t drive a car but walked.


    "Where are we going?" Leo asked as they walked silently for a few minutes. "We better bring a car, Bella..." Leo suggested.


    "No need. The restaurant in that building," she pointed to the building a few meters ahead. "There¡¯s a sushi restaurant there. I used to go there when I was still in college."


    When they arrived at the restaurant, the staff came to welcome them.


    "Welcome to Sushi Tei. For two people?" the waiter asked kindly.


    "Yes, for two. Excuse me, is it possible to reserve the VIP room?" Bella politely asked, noticing the crowded and noisy hall. She preferred a quieter dining experience.


    "There is one empty VIP room. If you don¡¯t mind, please wait a few minutes for us to clean it..." The waiter explained.


    Bella smiled at him, "Yes, I will wait. Thank you..."


    "Ma¡¯am, you can wait at the waiting area over there." He led them to the waiting area before he left to inform his colleagues to clean the VIP room. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just before Bella and Leo sat down, a middle-aged woman with short gray hair, looking glamorous with thick makeup and bold red lipstick, entered the restaurant.


    Beside her was a tall, slender woman in a stylish gray long coat from a famous brand. She wore large black glasses that almost covered part of her face, appearing like a mother and daughter walking while holding hands.


    The waiter who had welcomed Bella earlier rushed to the entrance and greeted them.


    At first, Bella didn¡¯t pay much attention to the two beautiful women as she continued chatting with Leo. However, when the older woman spoke, she felt goosebumps, recognizing her voice.


    Bella glanced at them, taking a few seconds to recognize the woman. No words came out of her mouth; she was shocked and speechless, looking at the older woman.


    ¡¯W-Why is she here?¡¯ Bella gasped, recognizing Jessica Sinclair, her ex-mother-in-law. She turned her gaze away, trying to hide her face, not wanting Jessica to recognize her.


    She avoided her not because she was afraid of her but because she was not in the mood for drama with her.


    Sensing the tension in Bella¡¯s expression, Leo leaned closer to her. "Why do you look tense? You recognized them?" he asked, glancing at the two women standing not far from them.


    Bella shook her head, taking out her cell phone to distract her mind, not wanting to pay attention to Jessica Sinclair.


    ...


    "I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am. Our VIP room is full. We only have two tables in the hall..." the waiter politely answered Jessica Sinclair.


    "Do you know who I¡¯m with? We can¡¯t eat in the hall. Please recheck your VIP room. Or, ask your manager to come here to speak to me..." Jessica insisted.


    The waiter was slightly surprised when he heard that. He glanced at the tall, slender woman with huge sunglasses almost covering her face. He couldn¡¯t recognize her. Was she a public figure?


    "W-Who?" the waiter asked.


    The slender, tall woman smiled as she briefly took off her glasses and put them back on.


    The waiter gasped in shock when he recognized her.


    "L-Laura Kiels¡ª" his voice faded when he saw Laura place her index finger on her lips, gesturing for him not to expose her presence there.


    "Now you know her, right?" Jessica smiled at the waiter. "Alright, you go... Call your manager or check the empty VIP room. I believe you still have an empty VIP room..." She said gently, but her gaze seemed like an order.


    The waiter felt confused because they didn¡¯t have an empty VIP room. Only one room was available, but it was already occupied, and the customer was waiting for it to be cleaned. He glanced at Bella and Leo with concern.


    ¡¯Would they give up their VIP room if they were aware that Laura Kiels would like to use it?¡¯ he pondered.

 Chapter 74: Drama

    The waiter glanced at Bella and Leo with concern.


    ¡¯Would they give up their VIP room if they were aware that Laura Kiels would like to use it?¡¯ he pondered.


    Concerned that he might have made a mistake, the waiter explained the situation to Jessica, but she remained insistent.


    Jessica smiled gently at the waiter before asking politely. Still, her tone sounded like an order that could not be refused, "Can you please approach that customer? You can offer them a complimentary lunch. I¡¯ll foot the bill for them. Tell them they can eat as much as they wish."


    The waiter worries about offending a public figure and this older woman with an aura from a wealthy background; he decides to help them speak with the earlier customer.


    "Madam, I will talk with them first before making a decision. However, I¡¯m uncertain if they¡¯ll accept your generous offer, ma¡¯am..." the waiter stated.


    "Yes, please do try... If they decline, allow me to handle it," Jessica responded with her trademark gentle smile, her face still maintaining its elegance even though her eyes were starting to look displeased.


    After the waiter left, Laura Kiels leaned her head close to Jessica with a worried gesture and whispered. "It¡¯s alright, Auntie. We can dine in the main hall. It doesn¡¯t matter to me. I¡¯m used to eating at places like this..." she said. However, deep down, she couldn¡¯t accept the idea of dining in the hall.


    She just can¡¯t.


    Laura only attempts to maintain a favorable impression in front of Tristan¡¯s mother. Even though her son doesn¡¯t really like her, the important thing is that Jessica Sinclair loves her and always stands behind her to defend her.


    "Oh, my dear Laura, you are such an angel. You have a kind and down-to-earth heart."


    "No, Aunty... I¡¯m not." Laura smile.


    Bella almost spat out of blood, hearing their words. Gosh!


    "Don¡¯t worry, my dear Laura... We have to secure a VIP room for ourselves. After all, you are the top celebrity in this country... it¡¯s inappropriate for you to eat in a public area, right!?" Jessica declared, tenderly patting Laura¡¯s hand.


    "Hmm... thank you, Aunty Jessica. I¡¯m so grateful to know you, Aunty... You are so kind to me..." Laura smiled sweetly. She glanced at the waiter approaching the customer.


    "Aunty, I hope Tristan can join us for lunch," she said calmly while returning her gaze to Jessica.


    Jessica¡¯s calm expression suddenly stiffened. Since returning from her holiday a few days ago, her son has not visited them. Tristan never picked up whenever she called; his assistant always told her he was busy.


    She sighed silently before saying, "Tristan has been busy lately, so we shouldn¡¯t bother him."


    Jessica smiled at Laura, but her eyes betrayed her true feelings.


    ...


    Unbeknownst to them, Bella and Leo overheard their conversation. And upon hearing Jessica and Laura¡¯s conversation, Bella, in particular, was rendered speechless.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could I encounter these two shameless women here!?¡¯ she faintly smiled.


    Previously, Bella had no intention of causing a scene in this place. However, hearing Jessica¡¯s arrogance made Bella want to teach her a lesson.


    "Ma¡¯am, sir..." The waiter stood before Bella and Leo, his worry clearly heard in his nervous voice. "I¡­I¡¯m so sorry... the two ladies over there want to offer you something," he said, pausing to wait for their reaction.


    Before Bella could respond, Leo interrupted, "What are you trying to say? Is our room ready now?" He pretending didn¡¯t know what happened.


    Leo was aware of what was going on. He overheard the conversation between the waiter and a woman. He was surprised to witness such audacity. How could this woman have the nerve to bribe them by offering a free lunch just to take their VIP room?


    They don¡¯t need her money to pay for their lunch. If they want, they can even buy this restaurant.


    "N-No, sir," the waiter stammered, growing even more fearful as he observed the cold expression on the man¡¯s face. "I wanted to inform you that the lady is offering you a free lunch if you¡¯re willing to give up your VIP room..."


    "Oh, really? She said that?" Leo responded with feigned excitement.


    "Yes, sir," the waiter answered hastily, relieved that the man seemed to be considering the offer. "The lady mentioned that you can enjoy as much as you like, and she will cover the bill..."


    "What a generous lady..." Leo smirked and glanced at Jessica.


    "Yes, indeed, sir. The Lady, actually..." The waiter leaned closer to Leo, speaking in a low voice, "That Lady is accompanied by the top celebrity in the country. If you¡¯re interested, I could arrange for the celebrity¡¯s autograph for you both, especially for you, sir."


    Bella, "...." S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She realized that Leo shared her intention to teach Jessica and Laura a lesson. She decided to let him handle it; for now, she just needed to observe the scene before her eyes.


    ¡¯Gosh! I need popcorn... To enjoy this soap opera,¡¯ Bella chuckled inwardly, listening as the conversation grew more heated.


    "A top celebrity, is she? Well, well, well, who might that be?" Leo was taken aback to learn that the woman was a celebrity without losing his annoyed and cynical tone. His gaze fixed on the young Lady as if trying to recall where he had seen her before.


    "Sir, you¡¯ll be surprised to know that woman¡¯s identity. She¡¯s Laura Kiels... one of the top artists in this country and a supermodel," the waiter said enthusiastically.


    Leo was rendered speechless. He couldn¡¯t help but glance at Bella as if he wanted to check whether she knew Laura Kiels was one of their talents.


    Seeing her calm expression caused him to ask, "You know who she is, right?"


    "Hmm, yeah. I think I know," a half smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips. "You can do whatever you want; don¡¯t mind me," she grinned.


    "Nope, I¡¯m too starving to fool around with them. Let¡¯s end the fun here," Leo chuckled, fixing his gaze on the waiter. "Is the VIP room ready!?"


    "Yes, sir, are you¡ª"

 Chapter 75: Recognize

    "Nope, I¡¯m too starving to fool around with them. Let¡¯s end the fun here," Leo chuckled, fixing his gaze on the waiter. "Is the VIP room ready!?"


    "Yes, sir, are you¡ª"


    "Please lead us to the room," Leo interrupted before the waiter could finish his sentence. He glanced at Bella. "Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, I¡¯m starving..."


    The waiter was shocked by the sudden change in the man¡¯s expression after hearing Laura Kiels¡¯s name.


    "Sir, what about the room? And the free lunch?" he asked, trailing behind them, helpless.


    Leo halted his steps, turning to face the waiter. His previously friendly expression slowly turned cold and fierce.


    "Tell that generous Lady I¡¯m grateful for her offer. Still, I would rather pay for her lunch than give up the room. Tell her she can eat as much as she wants...GRATIS," Leo gently patted the waiter¡¯s shoulder. Then, he smoothly slipped a generous amount of money on the waiter¡¯s hand before continuing to walk.


    Bella followed Leo while lowering her face to prevent Jessica from recognizing her. She felt grateful that she had returned to her before-married weight; unlike the last time she met Jessica, she was still overweight.


    ¡¯Jessica won¡¯t recognize me, right!? Damn if she does,¡¯ she wondered. But her hopes were dashed when she heard Jessica¡¯s voice shrieked loudly from behind.


    "B-Bella... is... is... that you!?"


    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯ Bella can¡¯t help but curse.


    Bella kept walking, deliberately ignoring Jessica. Meanwhile, Leo, walking beside her, glanced at her.


    "So, you really know that old lady, huh!?" His eyebrows raised slightly as he waited for her response.


    "Hmm, I know her. She¡¯s someone from the past... and I don¡¯t want to meet," Bella said without looking at him, not wanting Leo to see her worry.


    Bella only wanted to ignore Jessica. Hoping Jessica would give up and leave her alone. However, Bella was wrong; Jessica¡¯s loud voice echoed in the restaurant hall, sounding like a slap to Bella¡¯s head.


    "ARABELLA... HOW DARE YOU IGNORE ME!! STOP RIGHT THERE!"


    ¡¯Truly shameless!! Does she not know the word ¡¯manners¡¯? How dare she shout in this restaurant!?¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her anger inwardly. She felt ashamed to have been part of this woman¡¯s family.


    How shameless!


    Bella keeps walking.


    "ARABELLA DONOVAN, STOP!!" Jessica¡¯s voice sounded close, walking quickly after Bella. "I know it¡¯s you, Bella. Stop right there..." she shouted again.


    Jessica¡¯s loud voice was difficult for the people around them to ignore. They all turned their heads, looking in Jessica¡¯s direction.


    Bella gritted her teeth, holding back her irritation. She didn¡¯t want to meet and cause drama with this shameless woman, but she insisted.


    Just as Bella was about to turn around to confront Jessica, Leo suddenly stopped in his tracks and turned to face Jessica. He stood before Bella as if trying to protect her from danger.


    Jessica was shocked; she almost bumped into Leo¡¯s sturdy chest. She stopped one step away from him.


    "Move! I need to talk to the woman behind you!" She snapped.


    Bella could only smile bitterly, standing behind Leo. She lowered her gaze, embarrassed by this situation.


    Not only Bella but also Laura Kiels felt shocked and embarrassed. She ensured her sunglasses hid her face while trying to move away from Jessica. She was afraid someone would take a video or picture of her. However, before Laura could move away, Jessica¡¯s hand held her.


    "Stay here, dear. Don¡¯t go anywhere... You must witness this. That woman is actually Tristan¡¯s ex-wife..." Jessica whispered to Laura.


    Laura Kiels was shocked to hear that. She tried to glance at the woman, but the handsome young man in front of them entirely blocked her view. She felt thrilled and curious, eager to see the woman who had once been Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife.


    ...


    Leo glanced at the old Lady. His eyebrows tightened, nearly drawing together, showing displeasure.


    When Leo noticed the woman finishing her conversation with the young woman beside her, he asked, "Seriously, who the fuck are you? Why do you insist on talking to my colleague here?"


    "You don¡¯t know me?" Jessica was surprised that someone didn¡¯t recognize her. Her face was constantly plastered across the internet and magazines as a philanthropist and the matriarch of Sinclair Corp.


    If the restaurant waiter didn¡¯t recognize her, she could understand¡ªthey likely didn¡¯t have time to keep up with such news. However, she was confident the man before her, like Bella, must have been an office worker. And Bella surely must have informed him about her identity, right?


    "Should I, ma¡¯am? Because I truly didn¡¯t know who you were. Nor give a fuck about who you are."


    "Young man, please speak more politely. Well, everyone knows my face. Unless you¡¯ve just returned from abroad and haven¡¯t kept up with the news in this country, I¡¯ll understand." She said while casually waving his hand to Leo.


    Leo chuckled at her words, leaning his face closer to Jessica¡¯s. She flinched, attempting to move a few inches away from him.


    "Ma¡¯am, I thought you left your entire brain at home. But it seems you still have a little bit left..." Amusement flickered in Leo¡¯s eyes as he observed the woman¡¯s reddening face.


    "Mam, you¡¯ve guessed it exactly right. I¡¯ve only just arrived in this country, and I didn¡¯t know you or care about your identity!" Leo continued, his tone matter-of-fact.


    "Y-You¡ª" Jessica hissed, her fist clenched in frustration.


    "Stop harassing us. And stop causing a scene in someone else¡¯s business," Leo¡¯s tone turned cold, his gaze still fixed on Jessica. "If this Lady behind me didn¡¯t respond to you... It means she doesn¡¯t want to talk to you. Do you understand that basic courtesy!?"


    Leo intended to put this woman in her place, but he felt Bella¡¯s hand tugging at the edge of his coat, silently asking him to stop.


    Jessica seethed with anger, feeling humiliated like never before.


    ¡¯How dare he speak to me in such a manner? Who does he think he is!?¡¯ Jessica was venting her anger internally. Her face flushed redder and redder as if her blood vessels were on the verge of bursting.


    She opened her mouth to say something but was left speechless when she saw the man and Bella walking away, completely ignoring her.


    S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 76: Confront Jessica Sinclair

    Leo gently placed his hand on Bella¡¯s shoulder. When Bella turned her gaze at him, he smiled at her before saying, "Let¡¯s go. No need to care about them."


    She nods and follows him.


    Bella and Leo walked toward the VIP room, ignoring Jessica. However, Jessica didn¡¯t let them go just like that. She ran after them.


    When they arrived at the corridor heading to the VIP room, where no guests could look at them, Jessica verbally attacked Bella again.


    "Bella, why do you ignore me? I only wanted to know why you suddenly returned to this country?" Jessica asked curiously.


    However, when Jessica saw them, still ignoring her, she felt anger swallow her.


    "If you think you can come back to ruin my family again, forget it. If you insist, I will¡ª" Jessica¡¯s voice faded when she saw Bella finally stop her step. A smile graced Jessica¡¯s face.


    Leo was surprised to see Bella¡¯s expression slowly change from calm to icy.


    "Bella, let me handle that woman. Go to the VIP room and wait for me; you don¡¯t have to deal with this kind of woman," he said worriedly.


    A forced smile appeared on Bella¡¯s face as she shook her head, "No, Leo. Please don¡¯t stop me. I will handle this. That shameless woman will not stop bothering me if I don¡¯t deal with her now."


    She wasn¡¯t afraid of Jessica but didn¡¯t want to make a scene in public when she was in this restaurant. Because she knew who owned this place, the Spencer Family.


    What¡¯s more, outside, she could see people starting to take photos of them, even though she had hidden her face, afraid that someone would recognize her, especially Sean¡¯s family.


    "But¡ª"


    "It¡¯s fine," Bella interrupted him. "I can handle her..." She said and turned her body to face Jessica.


    Bella saw Jessica stop a few steps away from her. She looked graceful, but her gaze was clear to mock her. Beside Jessica stood a tall woman with a slender body, her hair tied up. Her shades were still perched on her dainty nose. Behind her shades, Bella could feel Laura Kiels staring at her intently.


    She just laughed inwardly at the fact that this woman, Tristan¡¯s woman, was actually a talent in her company.


    ¡¯Did Tristan know that I own Quantum Capital?¡¯ she wondered, feeling amused. She shook her head slightly, trying to push that thought aside.


    Bella¡¯s gaze fixed on Jessica once more. When she saw Jessica¡¯s mocking smile growing from the corners of her lips, Bella walked forward. She stopped exactly two steps from Jessica.


    "Ms. Sinclair¡ª" Bella said in an icy tone enough to surprise Jessica to hear Bella talking to her in such a manner. "Are you curious to know why I returned?" she asked.


    "Yes... Yes... Why did you come back!?" Jessica answered quickly in a slightly shrill voice. She knew Bella ran to another country, and now she wanted to know her motive for returning to this country.


    Jessica could guess that Bella had already spent all her alimony money. That¡¯s why she returned to this country. Jessica was worried that Bella returned to blackmail her son using her status as Tristan¡¯s ex-wife. If that was her intention, she couldn¡¯t let that happen.


    Bella shook her head slowly.


    A small laugh escaped her lips before she said casually, "Ms. Sinclair, you don¡¯t deserve to know why. Because to me, you are nobody. So, why should I tell you!?" She said with a nonchalant expression with a hint of condescending, yet her voice was as cold as ice.


    Jessica was shocked to hear Bella¡¯s words. How dare this woman say those words to her?


    "Y-You bi¡ª" She opened her mouth to scold Bella, but her voice betrayed her; no words could escape her lips. She could only scold Bella through her gaze.


    Bella ignores Jessica¡¯s sharp gaze and continues, "Why are you so eager to talk to me, even though you severed the family ties between us several years ago? You even instructed me never to be seen in your presence again. Have you forgotten about that?"


    "Bella, you¡ª" Jessica feels her face turn hot, holding back her anger hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    "All right, let¡¯s end it here," Bella chuckled when she saw her face turn red, afraid this shameless woman might get a heart attack if she continued. "I hope you stop bothering me if you see me again because I will do that too. Bye..." She turned away.


    Bella feels her heart lighter after expressing her anger and feels in a good mood looking at how angry Jessica is now. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I don¡¯t believe you changed a lot, Bella. You are so rude to your elder..." Jessica shouted.


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Geez!! You are nobody to me, let alone my elder!¡¯ Bella could only say that inwardly.


    "Ms. Sinclair, you should go home now," Bella said without looking at Jessica. "Your face and the woman next to you could be trending on social media. Congrats... For your success in ruining somebody else¡¯s career..."


    Instantly, Jessica¡¯s face turned pale upon hearing Bella¡¯s words. She looks at Laura in shock and realizes something.


    "Laura, check the internet. Someone might upload the video or picture about us..." She said in panic.


    ****


    The waiter accompanying Bella and Leo followed them from behind in a hurry.


    His face still looked pale, witnessing something that had never happened in this restaurant. And all of this happened when their floor manager was not around. He could only pray that these two people won¡¯t blame him.


    He could see this couple was not ordinary people he could treat carelessly because they didn¡¯t even care about famous public figures like Laura Kiels.


    After opening the VIP door, he immediately apologized to them for trying to help those two women snatch their VIP room.


    "Don¡¯t worry... You don¡¯t need to apologize; it¡¯s not your fault." Bella said and excused herself to the bathroom. She let Leo talk to the waiter and let him order the food.


    She rushed to the bathroom inside the VIP room to calm her heart and mind.

 Chapter 77: Shocked

    While at the Sinclair Tower.


    After talking with his grandfather this morning, Tristan spent his entire day in his penthouse waiting for the right opportunity to call Bella. He needed to meet her and talk about her work and their son.


    After he asked Max to investigate Bella¡¯s location, he found that she had been in her office building Quantum Capital since morning.


    He wanted to visit her office immediately but feared she would be angry. To distract his mind from thinking about her, he asked his grandfather to send him videos and pictures of Dax. Only looking at how adorable his son was made him forget to rush to Bella¡¯s office.


    But now, he wanted to ask Bella to speed up his meeting with Dax. It felt like he didn¡¯t want to wait any longer.


    Before long,


    Tristan saw Max enter the living room area, holding his laptop. Max¡¯s face looked slightly ugly as if someone had just ruined his day.


    Tristan can not help but ask, "What is it?"


    "Boss, I found something interesting."


    Max said. He places his laptop on the coffee table in front of Tristan.


    "A few moments ago, videos and photos spread on social media showing your mother and Laura Kiels at Sushi Tei restaurant."


    "And why are you telling me this?"


    Tristan frowned, looking at Max. He didn¡¯t want to know what his mother was doing with that woman. It doesn¡¯t matter if they meet as long as they don¡¯t bother him.


    "When I watched the video, I found something that shocked me... And I think you should see the footage, too."


    "Can you just summarize in short? I have so many things to do now!"


    Tristan looked impatiently at Max, who was still standing before him.


    "Boss, let me show you..."


    Max took his laptop and sat next to Tristan. His hands danced nimbly across the keyboard. Not long after, CCTV footage appeared on the laptop screen. He places his laptop again before Tristan.


    "Don¡¯t be shocked, Boss..." Max warned him before he entered the play button.


    Even though Tristan feels confused, he still follows Max¡¯s advice to watch the CCTV footage.


    Soon, he saw his mother and Laura Kiels chatting with a man inside the Sushi Tei restaurant; he became even more confused because he didn¡¯t know the man¡¯s identity.


    Why did Max ask me to watch this video!?


    "Max, what are you wa¡ª" Tristan paused when he saw the familiar woman standing behind the man.


    His heart tightened as he moved closer to look at the computer screen. As soon he saw the woman¡¯s face, his eyes widened in shock.


    "Why is Bella there? My mother meets her..." Tristan¡¯s voice trembles, too shocked to see his mother scold Bella.


    "Yes, that woman indeed, Ms. Bella, and it looks like your mother confronted her..."


    Tristan¡¯s hands clenched into tight fists. He continues watching the CCTV footage until it¡¯s finished.


    Instantly, Tristan stood up from the sofa when he saw the video take place about 30 minutes ago. He decides to go to a restaurant.


    He was afraid that Bella would be hurt because she was abused again by his mother. This time, he would not let her suffer because of his parents.


    However, before he could move to the elevator, the man who tried to protect Bella flashed into his mind.


    Who is that person!?


    "Max, I want the man¡¯s identity," Tristan ordered as he left the room.


    Max trailed him while bringing his laptop.


    "I will investigate him too." He answers.


    "I also want you to delete all photos or videos that record Bella¡¯s face."


    "Okay, Boss!! I will erase all their digital traces."


    "No!" Tristan¡¯s steps stopped. He turned to look at Max. "Let the photo and video of that woman circulate online... Ah, my mother, you don¡¯t have to erase them."


    Max was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s order. Looking at how dark his face was now, he didn¡¯t ask him further.


    "I understand, Boss. I¡¯ll do it right away."


    "The man¡¯s identity; I want you to send it quickly."


    Max nodded. He headed to the emergency stairs, to the 39th floor, his computer room.


    ****


    Sushi Tei restaurant.


    Leo let Bella finish her lunch even though he was curious about the old woman¡¯s identity.


    Before long, he followed suit when he saw Bella finally put the chopsticks on the empty plate.


    "Bella, do you mind if I ask?"


    She looked at Leo and saw his curiosity flash through his eyes.


    "Sure," She answered casually.


    "Who is that old lady!? Why was she so mean to you?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. Instead, she asked, "Didn¡¯t Jack tell you who my husband is... I mean, my ex-husband?"


    "Well, sorry to tell you, but we never talk about you, Bella." Leo chuckled when he saw her roll her eyes.


    "Gosh! I know you were never interested in me, Leo... you don¡¯t need to emphasize that."


    "Hahaha, sorry..."


    "Well, that woman, my ex-mother-in-law."


    "Damn it!! I already guessed¡ª" Leo didn¡¯t continue his sentence when he remembered the old woman¡¯s name when Bella called her earlier.


    Leo narrowed his eyes at Bella, "So, your ex-husband is Tristan Sinclair?"


    "Hmm, he is."


    Leo opened his mouth several times to say something, but not a word came out. He was shocked to learn that the rich and influential man in this country was Bella¡¯s ex-husband.


    "Why were you muted?" She feels amused looking at Leo.


    "Tsk! I never imagined you married him. No wonder you¡¯re not interested in helping Jack and Harper at the head office; you have a rich man as your husband."


    "Oh, please, Leo! He is my ex. And that¡¯s in the past..."


    "Yeah," He smiles. "Well, you made the right decision to divorce Tristan Sinclair. His mother¡¯s behavior was unacceptable."


    "I know, right!? That¡¯s why avoiding that woman is my ninja way." She laughed before continuing her words. "I¡¯m too tired to meet that kind of person."


    "Yeah, really annoying and causing our mood to drop below zero. Damn!!"


    "Hmm," Bella sighed deeply.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go back to the office now. Or do you want to go home?"


    "I will go home. I have left my son for too long..." Her smile grew wider when she thought about Dax.


    ...


    When they left the VIP room, Bella stopped in her tracks. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Why... Is he here!?" she said softly, looking at Tristan, walking toward her.

 Chapter 78: We Need To Talk

    When they left the VIP room, Bella stopped in her tracks.


    "Why... Is he here!?" she said softly, looking at Tristan, walking toward her. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella¡¯s eyes fixed on him, confused as to why he suddenly appeared there.


    ¡¯Did he stalk me?¡¯ She wonders.


    However, Bella dismissed that thought when something crossed her mind. He¡¯s probably seen the internet. But another curiosity arose in her mind. Why did he come to her? Why doesn¡¯t he go to see his woman?


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry for suddenly coming here. We need to talk. I hope you can give me your time," he said, his eyes still fixed on her.


    Tristan didn¡¯t take his eyes off her for a second or even glance at Leo, standing right beside Bella and giving him a sharp look.


    Bella was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s urgent and slightly insisting tone. She could only nod. Plus, she also needed to talk to him about her concerns ¡ª Jessica might do something shameful if she found out about Dax.


    ...


    Leo knew the man before them was Tristan Sinclair, but he didn¡¯t expect this man to appear here, too. He looked at Bella with concern before leaning closer to her.


    "Bella, are you sure you¡¯re alright?" Leo asked.


    When Leo saw Bella smile and nod, he asked again, "Are you really, really sure?"


    "Yes. Leo, I¡¯m positive. Please, you can go back to the office. I¡¯ll call you later." Bella said to him while smiling to make him believe she was OK. She knew from the look in his eyes that Leo was only worried about her.


    "OK, see you on Monday," Leo said, then gave a slight nod to Tristan before he left the restaurant.


    ...


    After watching Leo¡¯s back disappear from her line of sight, Bella looked at Tristan. "Do you want to chat here or somewhere else?"


    "Let¡¯s chat somewhere else. Follow me..." he said, gesturing for her to walk first toward the door.


    Bella no longer said something as she crossed the dining hall. The place, previously bustling with customers, now looks almost empty. Only a few tables were still occupied by customers; they didn¡¯t seem to care about them.


    She felt relieved because she didn¡¯t have to hide her face like before.


    Finally, Tristan¡¯s steps halted right before the Maybach.


    Two people in black uniforms were standing near the car.


    "You go in first," said Tristan when his bodyguard opened the back row.


    Bella didn¡¯t enter the car immediately but looked up to see Tristan¡¯s face, "Tristan, I drive. And I park my car in my office. Can you give me the address of the place you want to go? I will drive there¡ª" She can¡¯t leave her car there.


    "Give me the key."


    She immediately gave Tristan the car keys.


    "My people will drive your car to my house. You can drive it later," he explained. Bella said nothing and entered the car.


    After a few moments, the car drove away from the central business street. Bella realized the vehicle was heading towards her house in the Little Heaven area.


    She turned to Tristan to ask. But she was surprised to see him looking out the window as if he was in deep thought. From where she was sitting, Bella could see he was not in a good mood.


    "Tristan, what do you want to talk about?" She asked.


    When Tristan finally turned to look at her, Bella could clearly see his expression looked gloomy; however, his gaze was not as cold as before. There is warmth there.


    "Later. We¡¯ll talk after we arrive."


    She understood why he didn¡¯t want to speak. There was a driver¡¯s seat behind the wheel.


    "Are we going to my house?" She was worried that Tristan would visit her house and go straight to meet Dax. She had not yet talked to Dax about Tristan wanting to meet him.


    She remembers Dax once said he didn¡¯t like his father because of the news he read, that his father was known to have many women out there ¡ª a playboy, a womanizer. That¡¯s why she needs to ask Dax¡¯s opinion before bringing Tristan to meet him.


    "Did you forget I also live in Little Heaven?" His lips revealed a barely noticeable smile.


    "Aahh..." Bella gasped, realizing she had forgotten what had happened the previous night. She didn¡¯t say anything as she turned her head out the window, holding back her awkward smile.


    "We will talk at my house. So, you can go home quickly after that."


    "OK," Bella answered without looking at him.


    Not long after, the vehicle stopped in front of a luxurious, minimalist two-story house. The house was surrounded by trees starting to show green leaves, a sign that spring would soon arrive.


    When Bella stepped out of the car, her white SUV arrived, driven by one of Tristan¡¯s bodyguards.


    "Let¡¯s get in, Bella..." Tristan said and walked inside without waiting for her.


    For some unknown reason, Bella felt worried about entering Tristan¡¯s house. She could feel her feet heavy to move.


    Gosh!


    After a few seconds, Tristan disappeared from her line of sight. She forced herself to move forward.


    When she finally entered the house, she didn¡¯t see Tristan. Instead, she met Geoffrey, Tristan¡¯s butler.


    "Young madam, welcome..." said Geoffrey politely as he guided Bella into the house. "I¡¯m glad to see you more healthy and beautiful, young madam."


    "Thank you, Geoffrey. You look younger, too. I suspect that you are not actually human but a vampire; you are never old." She teased him, trying to distract her worries about entering a single man¡¯s house.


    Geoffrey stopped his step; he couldn¡¯t help but laugh, hearing Young Madam Bella¡¯s compliment. "Hahaha, thank you, young madam. Alright... Please follow me."


    She nodded as she followed Geoffrey. Now, she felt less worried. At least there was someone else in the house, not only her and Tristan.


    Bella could see that the house looked clean, with new furniture. It felt like she had entered a display home at a new housing development.


    ¡¯Seriously, has Tristan lived here for a long time?¡¯ She muttered in her heart while looking around. ¡¯Why does this house look new?¡¯

 Chapter 79: Did He Forget?

    ¡¯Seriously, has Tristan lived here for a long time?¡¯ Bella muttered in her heart while looking around. ¡¯Why does this house look new?¡¯


    She put aside her curiosity as she continued walking to follow Geoffrey.


    However, she didn¡¯t see Tristan when they arrived at the living room. And Geoffrey also kept walking, passing the room.


    Before Bella could ask, Geoffrey walked toward the stairs leading to the second floor.


    Suddenly, Bella¡¯s steps stopped.


    ¡¯Why did Geoffrey lead me to the second floor?¡¯ Bella wondered. She knew the second floor was usually a private area for the homeowner.


    ¡¯Did Tristan want to talk to me in his bedroom? Has he gone insane!?¡¯ She hesitated to follow Geoffrey.


    She just stared at him, who was already halfway up the stairs. Her hands clenched into tight fists, regretting following Tristan to this place.


    "Young Madam!?"


    Bella turned to Geoffrey and saw him smile at her. She tried to say something but hesitated.


    Geoffrey could see worry flash through Bella¡¯s eyes. He said in his calm tone, "Master Tristan is waiting for you in his study. He prefers to talk to you in a private place..."


    She silently swallowed while dismissing her negative thoughts and started to climb the stairs. At the same time, she tried to adjust her expression so as not to show her nervousness.


    Soon, they both stood before the massive wooden door. Geoffrey opened the door for her.


    After Bella entered the room, Geoffrey left to let them chat.


    ...


    Bella noted the room looked austere, with only a few pieces of furniture typical of a home office.


    She spotted Tristan already seated on the black leather sofa facing her.


    He smiles warmly at her before saying, "Come, join me¡ª"


    Approaching him, Bella settled opposite him on a single sofa.


    As worry flashed through his eyes, she couldn¡¯t resist asking, "Why do you look worried when I¡¯m the one who is supposed to be showing that emotion?"


    Tristan was stunned by her words. Instantly, a faint smile graced his handsome, calm face.


    He didn¡¯t rush to respond but instead admired her beauty with his gaze.


    They had never been this close or engaged in such an intense conversation during their marriage, a fact that filled him with regret.


    He only saw her when he needed to fulfill his role as a man who wanted his wife to get pregnant.


    Why hadn¡¯t he appreciated her beauty before?


    Why had he not returned her love?


    So many ¡¯WHYs¡¯ plagued his mind since she left. And he was too foolish to realize it all when she was gone.


    ¡¯Sigh!¡¯


    Tristan silently took a deep breath, trying to push aside his past self. He hates his past self and longs for the opportunity to go back and make things right from the start.


    But all that is not possible.


    Now, all he can do is win her heart back and make her fall in love with him again.


    A warm smile graced his lips as he finally spoke, "You look pretty today, Bella¡­"


    ¡¯Oh, boy¡­ here comes shameless Tristan,¡¯ Bella mumbled under her breath while trying to maintain her calmness and not sway with his cheesiness lines.


    She ignores his words.


    "Did you happen to check the internet today?" she asked.


    Bella knew why he had appeared before her; it must be related to her encounter with his mother and his woman at Sushi Tei Restaurant.


    Slowly, Tristan¡¯s smile faded upon hearing her words.


    "I¡¯m sorry if my mother offended you, Bella..." his sincere tone was enough to convince Bella. Still, she remained silent, offering only a smile.


    "Bella, I promise you, I will ensure that kind of thing never happens in the future. My mother will never appear before you again."


    "Thank you, Tristan. But my concern now was your mother. I hope she never appears before my son¡ª"


    "Our son, Bella," he interjected.


    Bella swallowed but didn¡¯t correct him.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m worried," her hands clenched. "If¡­ one day your mother were to discover Dax, I wouldn¡¯t want her to act as shamelessly as she did today. Can you promise me that?"


    Her words surprised him. Tristan never imagined his mother knew about Dax, but he understood her concerns.


    "Of course, Bella. You are my wife, and Dax is my son. I will protect you. No one will harm you both¡­ not even my mother."


    She sighed deeply.


    "I¡¯m not your wife. Please be serious, Tristan!"


    "I¡¯m serious. You are my woman; of course, I will protect you."


    "Oh my..." Bella was rendered speechless hearing this shameless man¡¯s words. Why did he insist on calling her ¡¯WIFE¡¯? They are already divorced.


    "Mr. Sinclair, did someone hit you on the head, so you forgot that we were divorced?"


    Tristan, "..."


    "Wow... seriously!? Is it true that someone hit you, and now you experience something called memory loss?" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan, "..."


    Bella chuckled before she continued. "Alright, let me remind you. Mr. Sinclair, we¡¯re divorced. I still remember you are the one who sent a lawyer to force me to sign the divorce papers. Now tell me, was I wrong?"


    Bella stared intently into his deep blue eyes, looking for traces of whether this man was joking or serious, but again, his calmness puzzled her.


    She frowned, waiting for him to respond.


    "Yes. You are right. But you are also wrong. Because I never submitted our divorce paper to the court. So, we are still husband and wife, Bella Donovan..." Tristan wanted to say that. But then, he decided not to.


    He didn¡¯t want to force her to get her back into his arms. No. He wanted her to be in love with him again and willingly back into his arms.


    Tristan was about to speak but was interrupted by Bella.


    "You should not be concerned about me, Tristan. I¡¯m independent now, and I don¡¯t need your protection. All I need from you is that you promise me... your mother or father will never try to take our son from me..." her voice trembles.

 Chapter 80: Dax Didn’t Like You

    Tristan¡¯s eyes pitch, and his forehead tenses. He imagined his parents could do that, too. But, of course, he will never allow that to happen.


    After intensely staring at each other without saying anything, Tristan finally broke the silence.


    "Bella, no one can separate you from our son. You can take my word for it. Even I... myself... wouldn¡¯t do that¡ª" His dark blue eyes flickered with intense emotion.


    Bella was stunned to see Tristan make such a sincere promise.


    "Ca-can I trust you?" She asked. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes. Of course, you should. When did I lie to you, Bella!?"


    Bella didn¡¯t utter anything.


    However, her memories reel back. In the past, this man always acted to walk the talk. She remembers clearly that Tristan said he didn¡¯t love her and had no feelings for her. What he said that time, he showed it. This man never wavered at her even though she already tried to make him fall for her. After four years, she still fails!


    Since she arrived in this country, she always suspected that Tristan and his family might take Dax from her, but now she feels relieved after hearing Tristan¡¯s promise.


    However, something bothered her. Today, she saw Laura and Jessica so close, like mother and daughter. But why is Jessica still worried about her return? That woman even accused her wanted to approach Tristan again.


    Why does Jessica think like that? She is supposed to be confident with Laura. They already have a future heir for the Sinclair family from that woman, right!?


    This puzzled her.


    ¡¯Gosh! Stop thinking about that, Bella. It¡¯s not your problem! The important thing now is Tristan already promised you... he will never separate you from Dax,¡¯ Bella tries to convince herself.


    After trying to throw her worry, she turned to see him in the eyes, "Thanks, Tristan, I appreciate that. I promise I won¡¯t stop you from meeting your son."


    Tristan¡¯s blue eyes flashed with happiness upon hearing her words. However, his smile faded as he remembered the video his grandfather had sent him. He could not wait any longer to meet his son.


    "Bella, I want to meet him now. I just can¡¯t wait any longer... Please allow me to meet him."


    "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to allow you to meet him. But I really have to talk to Dax first."


    She took a deep breath before continuing, "Last night when I came home, he was already asleep. Even this morning, Dax was busy playing with his two great-grandfathers. He was busy with them, and I didn¡¯t have time to talk to him..."


    "Why don¡¯t I just go meet him? Dax already knows that I¡¯m his father. I worry if he thinks I¡¯m an irresponsible father?" Tristan said in confusion.


    He continued, "I¡¯m not that kind of father, alright. And You know, if I knew you were pregnant, I would never have forced you to sign the divorce papers. And let you go just like that, Bella... You know that."


    Bella can¡¯t utter any words. She is unable to refute what Tristan said. He¡¯s right. But she remembered Dax¡¯s words about Tristan a few days ago ¡ª he didn¡¯t like his father.


    ¡¯Do I need to be honest with him?¡¯ Bella thought doubtfully. She was worried that Tristan would be sad and disappointed.


    However, when the image of Laura Kiels appeared in Bella¡¯s mind, she immediately decided to be honest with him.


    "Tristan, Dax doesn¡¯t like you¡ª"


    "WHAT!? Why doesn¡¯t he like me?" Tristan was too shocked to hear that. "Did you say bad things about me to him?"


    Hearing his own words made Tristan worried to death. And he couldn¡¯t blame Bella for that. He was such a jerk, divorcing his wife when she was pregnant.


    "Oh my... how could I do that?" Bella paused to take in as much air as possible so that her heart would feel relieved.


    "Then why our son didn¡¯t like me?"


    "Tristan, Dax is not a kid like most kids his age. He¡¯s different..." Bella told Tristan about Dax¡¯s character. What are his hobbies? What are his interests in things that adults do? He likes music, computers, and business.


    Tristan was shocked and proud at the same time when he heard that.


    "He¡¯s a smart boy¡­"


    "You¡¯re not entirely correct. Some experts say our son was born as a genius. He has 160 IQ," Bella responded. A warm smile appears on her lips. "And not only that, he is also very understanding for a boy his age; he didn¡¯t want to make me sad. That¡¯s why he buries the question about his father in his heart and thinks his father has already died."


    Tristan felt like there were thousands of nails stabbing his heart. He feels hurt, knowing his son could think like that.


    "Never once did Dax ask about you... Until we arrive in this country," Bella said. "At that time, I only told him his father was still alive. He is a businessman and is also from this country. And you know what?"


    Tristan nods, curious, wanting to know.


    "That time, Dax immediately guessed you were his father. However, when he read your profile on your company website, he immediately said that you are not his father because you never stated you were ever married."


    Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s face turned somewhat ugly upon hearing her words. This is one thing that he regrets to this day. If only he hadn¡¯t agreed with his parents, he wouldn¡¯t have needed to become the subject of an internet media source of gossip.


    Tristan could only sigh deeply while venting his anger in his mind.


    "And when I told Dax you are indeed his father. He is looking for information about you on the Internet, and at that time, he told me... He has decided that he didn¡¯t like you. Because you are such a dishonest and disloyal husband. You have many other women out there and¡ª" she paused when she saw Tristan¡¯s face turn dark.


    No matter how angry he was, Tristan tried to control his emotions. He didn¡¯t want to show it to her; he was angry with himself for allowing the media to do that, and he didn¡¯t put much effort into punishing them.


    "And Tristan, I want to ask you about something."


    He frowned, looking at her.


    "Can you explain why you haven¡¯t announced your marriage to Laura Kiels?"

 Chapter 81: Jealousy

    "And Tristan, I want to ask you about something."


    He frowned, looking at her.


    "Can you explain why you haven¡¯t announced your marriage to Laura Kiels?"


    Tristan¡¯s face turned stiff as he heard Bella¡¯s question.


    ¡¯Why would she assume I¡¯m married to Laura? Did Mother tell her that? To make her angry!?¡¯ He wonders.


    After a few seconds of thinking, suddenly, everything clicked into place. From their first encounter at Sushi Tei, Bella¡¯s cynical demeanor now made sense to him.


    ¡¯She must be jealous, right?¡¯


    Tristan gazed into Bella¡¯s eyes, trying to find any trace of jealousy in them. At the same time, Bella was looking at him, and a frown appeared on her forehead as she seemed pondering something.


    Later,


    A charming-warm smile slowly appeared on Tristan¡¯s lips when he saw confusion flash through her gaze.


    "Bella, I know you are jealous. But you don¡¯t have to worry about that woman. I don¡¯t have any relationship with her, and I never even lay a finger on her..."


    Bella, "...."


    No words came out of her mouth, as she was simply speechless hearing his words.


    ¡¯What was he thinking? Who could possibly be jealous of him?¡¯ She narrowed her eyes and looked at him, but he just smiled at her, wearing the best smile she had ever seen from him.


    Sigh!


    She shook her head slightly, trying to let her mind focus again, not to fall into his trap.


    "I¡¯m not jealous!" Bella clarify. She didn¡¯t want this shameless Tristan to think like that and also as a reminder to herself that this man was just a part of her past.


    Tristan grinned, taking his time before addressing her words. He leisurely leaned back against the couch, crossing his feet. His index finger tapped rhythmically on the sofa arm.


    As Bella¡¯s puzzled gaze met his, he finally opened his mouth, "Oh, really? Then why do I sense a hint of jealousy in your eyes?" a playful glint appeared in his eyes.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but feel baffled by his behavior.


    ¡¯Gosh... this man! Why is he acting so strangely?¡¯ she wondered silently, struggling to keep her calmness.


    After meeting him again, Bella feels she doesn¡¯t know him anymore. He was different from the Tristan she knew.


    Bella opened her mouth several times but couldn¡¯t bring out any words to refute him.


    Sigh!


    Worried this man would twist her words again, she decided not to utter anything. But her gaze was enough to tell him she didn¡¯t believe him.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll be honest with you, Bella..." His tone shifted to seriousness. "I know her, but we weren¡¯t close. Our interactions were purely professional. She¡¯s among the many top celebrities who have become our company¡¯s brand ambassador. So¡ª"


    ¡¯Why are you explaining this to me? I don¡¯t care, alright!¡¯ Bella could only answer him in her mind, too exhausted to engage in further conversation. This man is capable of twisting her words.


    Seeing Bella¡¯s continued silence worried him. Tristan speaks again, "Bella, if you¡¯re uncomfortable with me being close to her or any other woman out there, I¡¯ll avoid them. I promise."


    She became puzzled when she heard this man¡¯s words getting wilder. If she kept quiet, his imagination might run wild.


    "Tristan, you¡¯ve got it all wrong... I¡¯m not jealous of you. Why would I be!?" She wanted to express this, but once again, Tristan Shameless Sinclair didn¡¯t give her a chance to speak. She could only swallow her words, listening to his nonsensical rambling.


    "Come on, Bella, say something... Don¡¯t just give me those intimidating looks. And could you please stop reading that trash news!? I never had a close relationship with her. And earlier, you said I married her? No, of course not.


    Trust me!"


    Now, Bella feels confused. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She vividly remembered what she had overheard five years ago in the hospital. A few nurses gossiped about Tristan and Laura. And when she checked the hospital CCTV footage, she saw Tristan at Promise Hospital that day.


    However, judging how sincere and serious Tristan denies he has a relationship with Laura, Bella feels too exhausted to talk about it.


    She decides to drop this topic.


    Still, this shameless Tristan, once again, flares her annoyance. He said, "You know what, Bella? I once heard someone say, ¡¯silent¡¯ means yes. Because you are just keeping silent and not saying anything, I assume you are really... really... jealous of me."


    His words nearly caused her to curse him. She tried hard to maintain her calmness before saying, "I¡¯m not! And I also didn¡¯t read the news about you and Laura on the internet, but I¡ª" her voice trailed off, afraid he would twist her words again.


    She turned her gaze outside, avoiding his curious-looking gaze.


    "But, What?" he asked.


    After a few seconds of thinking, Bella decides not to discuss this matter again. She already feels grateful for Tristan¡¯s promise ¡ª he will not separate her from Dax. Besides, she didn¡¯t have a relationship with him. Why would she care!?


    "Never mind."


    "Are you sure?" Tristan could see her doubt flash through her eyes.


    "Yes." She said firmly.


    Before Tristan could speak, something crossed Bella¡¯s mind.


    "Tristan, you know where I work, right?" Bella asked. She needed to clarify something before she took care of that bitch, Laura Kiels.


    How can a lowly celebrity like her be able to make the company suffer? No wonder Stellar Entertainment always loses money; her professionalism must be questioned.


    "Of course, I know. This morning, Grandpa told me that you work at Quantum Capital. Why you asked?"


    "Did you know that Laura Kiels is actually under my subsidiary company? Stellar Entertaiment?"


    "I just found out about that today¡­" a thin line slowly appears on his forehead, trying to figure out what she is trying to say.


    "Because you said she is not your wife and also don¡¯t have a special relationship with her, it makes me relieved¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because, at the same time, Tristan¡¯s laugh echoed in the room.


    "Hahaha, I knew it..."


    ¡¯Why did he laugh!?¡¯ Bella was puzzled. ¡¯Did I say something that could make him twist my words... again!?¡¯

 Chapter 82: You’re Late!

    Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because, at the same time, Tristan¡¯s laugh echoed in the room.


    "Hahaha, I knew it..."


    ¡¯Why did he laugh!?¡¯ Bella was puzzled. ¡¯Did I say something that could make him twist my words... again!?¡¯


    "I knew it¡­you are jealous of her! Oh, Bella... I already told you I didn¡¯t have a relationship with that woman. You should trust me."


    Bella was rendered speechless.


    "Tristan Sinclair, you can say goodbye to your wild imagination!" She said, annoyed. She immediately continued her sentence when she saw Tristan open his mouth and want to speak, "¡ªI¡¯m not talking about that. But I only want to let you know I plan to sue her!"


    She will put Laura Kiels in her place before she becomes a top celebrity in this country. How dare she mess with Quantum Capital!?


    "You want to sue Laura Kiels?" Even though Tristan didn¡¯t have a relationship with Laura, as a businessman, he was surprised to hear her words.


    For entertainment agencies that do not even enter the top five in this country, losing Laura Kiels could guarantee bankruptcy for her company.


    Instantly, countless thoughts swirled in Tristan¡¯s mind, heightening his concern. Moreover, he was aware that she had recently joined Quantum Capital.


    ¡¯Why would she do that... Is it jealousy toward Laura Kiels...!?¡¯ he pondered, trying to make sense of it all.


    "Hmm, I plan to do that," Bella answered firmly.


    "Why?" His curiosity arises.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan, I cannot disclose that information. It is confidential to the company," she said with a shrug and a smile.


    He frowned slightly upon witnessing Bella¡¯s confidence.


    ¡¯How can she appear so calm when she plans to sue the company¡¯s top talent?¡¯


    After a few minutes in silence, he asked again, "Bella, if you don¡¯t mind answering, may I know your position at Quantum Capital?"


    He was unaware of her role at the company, as there had been no news of Bella Donovan joining Quantum Capital; she was likely just an ordinary employee. Did she join the Legal team? That¡¯s why she knows the legal terms for Laura Kiels.


    "My main office appointed me as CEO of Quantum Capital," Bella said.


    She had no intention of hiding it from him, even though she chose not to reveal her involvement with the RDF Group. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her reply surprised him. As far as he knew, Quantum Capital didn¡¯t have a CEO; they only had a COO and CFO working in the country. She hadn¡¯t replaced anyone in the company; instead, the head office had assigned her to assume the CEO role.


    Tristan was aware of Bella¡¯s educational background in business and management. Still, he never imagined she would have the opportunity to take over such a big company.


    And, hearing about her decision to fire the company¡¯s source of income, he could imagine the disdain from the previous executives.


    This fact troubled him; she seemed to be acting like a villain in her own office on her first day.


    However, seeing Bella¡¯s calm demeanor and confident smile astounded him.


    "I see. No wonder you¡¯re so confident about taking her to court," Tristan remarked, a smile playing on his lips.


    Bella responded to Tristan¡¯s words with a smile while glancing at her watch. She was surprised as she realized how much time had passed since she had arrived at this house to talk to him.


    "Tristan, I should go home now," she retrieved her bag and stood up.


    "So soon? It¡¯s not even five yet..." Tristan¡¯s disappointment was clearly heard in his voice. "Why not stay for dinner? I¡¯ll have Geoffrey prepare your favorite dish."


    He still wanted to spend more time with her.


    Bella chuckled inwardly upon hearing his offer.


    "Tristan, how do you know my favorite food?" she asked, recalling that they rarely dined together during their marriage, let alone discussed each other¡¯s hobbies or favorite foods.


    "Aren¡¯t you a foodie? You like to eat anything, right?" Tristan asked.


    "Ah, you are right... But this time, I¡¯ll have to decline your dinner invitation... I need to get home," she replied, suppressing a laugh as she noticed his gloomy expression.


    "Tristan, don¡¯t forget I need to talk to Dax. If I stay here longer, he might be asleep by the time I return."


    "Hmm, you go home now, Bella." He immediately escorted Bella to the first floor, urging her to pick up her pace toward her car.


    He was eager to explain the situation to Dax. The thought of his own son seeing him as a playboy, a womanizer, gnawed at him.


    Bella could only smile at Tristan¡¯s insistence on hurrying her to the car. Tristan even took the initiative to open the car door for her. He closed it gently after ensuring she was safely seated behind the wheel.


    However, she heard a knock on the window before she could turn on the car engine.


    "Knock... Knock..."


    Tristan tapped on the car window, signaling Bella to lower it.


    "Yes? Is there something you need?"


    "Drive safely, don¡¯t speed. And call me once you arrive," Tristan said with concern. He had wanted to drive her himself, but since she declined, he had no choice but to watch her drive off.


    "...."


    Bella was surprised by his unusual behavior.


    "Mr. Sinclair, my house is just across from yours. I won¡¯t even be driving on the main road. Save your worry for someone else," she reassured him coldly as she started the engine.


    Tristan, with a deadpan expression, replied, "Very well. But please promise me you¡¯ll contact me when you arrive at your home..."


    "Hmm¡­ If you insist, I will¡ª" Bella waved her hand as she pressed the gas pedal, leaving Tristan¡¯s yard behind.


    In the rearview mirror, Bella saw Tristan still standing there, his worried gaze fixed on her departing car.


    Sigh!


    "If only you had treated me this well when we were married, Tristan Sinclair... I would¡¯ve never let you go. But, you are too late now..."


    She could only smile wryly at her own words.

 Chapter 83: Visit Sinclair Mansion

    When Bella parked her car, she was surprised to see Dax and Noora waiting for her at the entrance.


    Distracted by her son¡¯s cuteness, she instantly forgot to text a man who now only stared at his cell phone with his tense expression.


    Feeling disappointed because Bella hadn¡¯t called or sent a message to him, Tristan went up to the second floor with a grim expression, intending to rest before dinner.


    But he only climbed a few steps, and his phone vibrated.


    He smiled as he took his phone from his pocket, feeling happy, wondering if Bella finally texted him. However, his smile gradually faded when he saw the cell phone screen.


    Reluctantly, he answered, "He-Hello Grandpa¡ª"


    "Brat¡ª" Lewis¡¯s angry tone echoed through the phone. Causing Tristan pulled the device away from his ear but still heard his grandpa¡¯s rumblings.


    "You promised to come to my house for dinner... Don¡¯t try to cancel again. If you do, I will ask my daughter-in-law and my cute great-grandson not to meet you forever!"


    Tristan paused, contemplating his next move. He shook his head slightly a second later, descending to the first floor.


    He completely forgets about this dinner plan. If his grandpa hadn¡¯t called now, he might end up sleeping.


    "Why do you keep silent? Did you hear me or not?"


    "Grandpa, if you can¡¯t control your anger like now, you might end up in the emergency room," Tristan casually remarked, gesturing to Geoffrey to prepare a car for him.


    "Yo-You¡ª" Lewis can¡¯t help but pause to take a deep breath.


    "Take a deep breath, Grandpa..." Tristan chuckled upon hearing his grandpa¡¯s attempt at calming down. "Yes... Yes... Like that. All right, talk to you later. I¡¯m about to drive there.


    Bye¡ª"


    Beep!


    Tristan shook his head slightly as he walked toward the yard. He saw Geoffrey and his driver already standing beside his Maybach.


    "Master, you will dine at the Old Master¡¯s house?" Geoffrey asked while opening the car door for him.


    Tristan didn¡¯t immediately get into the car; he turned to face Geoffrey.


    "Yes. But, I will return to sleep here. And, could you please buy a few of the best and most expensive gifts for a four-year-old boy?" Tristan instructed. He wanted to give his son their first meet gift.


    Geoffrey was shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s order. This was the first time he had been asked to buy such a gift for children.


    "Master, for a young boy aged four?" Geoffrey repeated the order to make sure he didn¡¯t hear it wrong.


    "Yes. And also, talk to the chef to prepare healthy food for children that age," Tristan¡¯s smile widened as his mind filled with thoughts of his son. He had already imagined their meeting tomorrow and couldn¡¯t wait any longer.


    Geoffrey became increasingly curious.


    "If I may ask, who is this young boy, Master?"


    Tristan¡¯s eyebrow slightly raised as he stared at Geoffrey. "Of course, my son..."


    "WHAT!" This was the first time Geoffrey raised his tone before his Master. He was utterly shocked.


    Since when did Tristan have children?


    Wait, four years?


    When something crossed Geoffrey¡¯s mind, instantly, his knees felt weak.


    "Ma-Master, your son with young madam!?" Geoffrey asked. He still couldn¡¯t believe what he was thinking at that moment.


    "Yes, my son with Bella. Sorry, Geoffrey, if I didn¡¯t tell you earlier..." Tristan said while patting Geoffrey¡¯s shoulder lightly.


    A faint smile appeared on his lips before he continued, "Because this is a secret. And I hope you don¡¯t share this news with anyone, including my parents. So far, in the family, only grandfather and you know about my son."


    "M-Master..." Geoffrey¡¯s voice trembled. He stared at Tristan with teary eyes; he was so touched to hear that his Master finally had offspring. He even got a boy. This was like a blessing coming from heaven. "Congratulations, I¡¯m so happy for you, Master. I can¡¯t wait to meet young Master...


    What is his name?"


    "My son¡¯s name is Daxton." A proud smile framed Tristan¡¯s handsome face. "Alright, I shall go now. Or Grandpa will send his bodyguard to capture me..." He chuckled and entered the car.


    "Yes, master..." Geoffrey, slightly bowed, looked at the car left the yard. He immediately rushed inside and made a call to buy a present for the young Master. He couldn¡¯t wait to welcome his Master¡¯s son.


    **** Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Tristan¡¯s car entered Sinclair Mansion¡¯s front yard, instantly, his expression turned dark. He saw his parents¡¯ car parked near the entrance.


    Sigh.


    "Should I just go back now?" He mumbled while looking at Alan, his grandpa¡¯s butler, approaching his car. After he saw Alan standing near the door, he stepped out of the vehicle.


    "Young Master, welcome..." Alan slightly bowed his head.


    "Why did Grandpa invite them too?" Tristan asked while looking at his parents¡¯ car.


    "Old Master didn¡¯t invite them, but they came uninvited," Alan explained.


    Tristan sighed deeply as he placed his hand in his coat pocket. His gaze was now fixed on the door.


    "Should I enter or not, Alan?"


    "Yes, Young Master, you may enter... Old Master has already been waiting for you since he arrived in this city. If you didn¡¯t join their dinner, he might be angry, and his blood pressure¡ª" Alan couldn¡¯t continue his words, too afraid to imagine Old Master sick because of being overly angry.


    "Come on, Alan... If I enter, Grandpa will not end up in the ER, but me. You know my parents, right!?"


    Alan nodded. He felt sorry for Young Master Tristan. He tried to think about what could make him stay.


    After a few seconds, Alan finally remembered something. "Young Master, I just remember something. Your parents came to inform the old Master about Young Madam."


    Tristan snapped upon hearing his words. He needed to meet his mother, asking her not to appear in front of Bella again. He didn¡¯t want Bella to be scared and have his hopes of reuniting with her dashed.


    He said nothing to Alan and entered the house.


    Alan trailed Tristan from behind with a smile on his face. He feel relieved that the young Master didn¡¯t cancel this dinner again.

 Chapter 84: Jessica Sinclair’s Concern

    Tristan said nothing to Alan and entered the house.


    Alan trailed Tristan from behind with a smile on his face. He felt relieved that the young Master didn¡¯t cancel this dinner, unlike the last time.


    When Tristan entered the living room, Jessica was the first to notice him. She stood up from her seat, and with a broad smile, she walked over to him.


    "My son, you are finally here. Oh, dear, you look so handsome as always... come, come... give your mother hugs. Oh my, I miss you so much, Tristan." She said while opening her arms.


    "Mother," Tristan accepted her hug gently, but his expression remained the same, calm but expressionless.


    Jessica released her hug and looked at Tristan, "Why didn¡¯t you come to meet us sooner? You already know we returned from our holiday, right?"


    "Mother, I know. But I¡¯m so busy with the company. I don¡¯t have free time."


    "Oh dear, please... spare some free time for yourself. Or you will be stressed and exhausted. Don¡¯t force yourself with your work¡ª"


    "Enough, Jessica!" A commanding, deep voice from behind caused Jessica to stop talking and look at the voice.


    Jessica smiled, "William, can you just let me speak to our only son?" she pouted to her husband, but William ignored her and looked at Tristan.


    He smiles at him, "Tristan, sit with us..." William Sinclair said.


    Tristan looked at his father with a half-smile on his lips, "Father¡ª"


    Before Tristan could join his father and Grandpa, he stopped when his mother held his hand. He turned to look at her, "What is it, Mother!?"


    "Son, I need to talk to you... There¡¯s something important we need to discuss," Jessica whispered.


    He merely nodded and then walked toward the seating area. After he sat near his Grandpa, he finally looked at him.


    "Grandpa, why are you still wearing your angry expression!? I already arrived..." Tristan chuckled, trying to humor his annoyed Grandpa.


    "Brat, if I didn¡¯t force you to come, you would never come to this house... Why do you seem to be avoiding me?"


    Tristan could only smile as he looked at his Grandpa. He didn¡¯t answer his question. Instead, he said, "I¡¯m starving, Grandpa. Shall we start our dinner now?"


    He didn¡¯t plan to stay longer in this place. He only needed to dine, speak to his mother, and return to his house. He needed to prepare many things before meeting his son, Dax.


    "It¡¯s not even seven, and you¡¯re already hungry?" Lewis replied as he checked his Rolex. "You skip your lunch again? Why?"


    "Hmm, I¡¯ve not eaten anything since morning. Someone ruined my mood!" Tristan wanted to say that but held his anger as he glanced at his mother.


    Tristan felt a slight anger appear in his heart when he remembered what had happened that noon between Bella and his mother.


    "Tristan, follow me inside. There¡¯s something I want to say to you." Suddenly, Jessica speaks, surprising everyone. She stood from her seat, politely apologizing to Lewis and William before leaving the room.


    "Hurry, dear..." She urged Tristan to follow her.


    "Grandpa, father¡­ I need to go with Mother first..." Tristan left after seeing them nod. He knew what his mother wanted to talk about, too. He also expected this opportunity to speak to her.


    Tristan followed her into his Grandpa¡¯s home office.


    When they were finally in the room, Tristan could see the worry through her gaze when she sat across from him.


    "What is it, mother?" He asked, pretending he didn¡¯t know what his mother was about to say.


    Jessica¡¯s eyes blinked several times, looking at Tristan; she felt nervous to tell him about Bella. Afraid his reaction would be happy to know about Bella¡¯s return.


    "Tristan... This noon, I met someone I haven¡¯t met for quite a long time."


    "Who?"


    "That shameless woman, Bella, she finally returned to this city. Did you know that?" Jessica¡¯s worried tone sounded through her words.


    "So!?" Tristan wanted to hear what she was trying to say.


    "That woman has a new boyfriend or maybe husband..." she paused, waiting for Tristan to say something.


    "And then?" Tristan asked as if he didn¡¯t care about it. He knew that man¡¯s identity; he didn¡¯t care because he was her secretary.


    "Sorry, dear son, I know... you have already forgotten about her. But mom just worries that woman will return to ruin our life. I could predict that she would return to ask for money."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but sigh deeply, hearing his mother rant Bella. But, he says nothing, only hears.


    "You know about her family company having a hard time after your father stopped cooperating with them, right? Well, I guess¡ª" Jessica continued to tell him that Bella wanted to return and use Sinclair money to make another deal again. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan could only laugh inwardly as he heard his mother saying nonsense about Bella and Donovan¡¯s family.


    The more he heard, the more he felt hurt for Bella. He knew exactly what happened to Donovan¡¯s Family, and what his mother said now was entirely wrong.


    He knew Bella never cared and had a relationship with her family company. What he heard from his Grandpa, Bella even wanted to sever ties with her father if her father still mistreated her and blamed her because of her divorce.


    "¡ªMy dear son, you must be careful if that shameless woman suddenly contacts you one day!" Jessica closed her sentence with a sharp gaze, looking at her expressionless son.


    Jessica couldn¡¯t read what Tristan was thinking; this made her worry. What made her more afraid was that Bella now looked so different; she seemed more confident and beautiful. Her son would waver if he met Bella and agreed to what she demanded.


    She didn¡¯t want their property to turn into Bella¡¯s name again.


    Tristan¡¯s eyes fixed on his mother.


    "Mother, stop bothering Bella. No one knows her better than me. So, everything you said was not entirely true," he calmly said.


    However, his words shocked Jessica.


    "Oh my god!! That bitch already met you? And she successfully brainwashed you¡ª" Jessica gasped, shocked to know Bella was already making a move to approach her son.


    Tristan almost choked hearing her words.

 Chapter 85: Threatening Him!

    "Tristan Sinclair! How did you fall into his trap!?" Jessica was shocked to realize that her son had already met with Bella. "Do not try to meet her again. She might use our family again to help her own family..."


    "Enough, Mother. Enough!" Tristan raised his voice while his eyes stared coldly at her. He couldn¡¯t hold back his anger any longer after hearing his mother insult Bella.


    Jessica¡¯s previously calm expression shifted dramatically from shock to gloom instantly.


    It was the first time in her entire life that she had ever heard her only son¡¯s voice scolding her, and even his eyes looked intensely cold as if he wanted to strike her with his sharp glare.


    It¡¯s hard for Jessica to believe that Tristan, who was once kind and gentle, had turned cruel and angry with her only because of Bella Donovan.


    "Y-You really..." Jessica¡¯s voice trailed off as sadness overcame her.


    "Please, Mom, could you stop speaking negatively about Bella? This is my first and final warning to you. I don¡¯t want to become disrespectful to you, but I can¡¯t tolerate hearing you insult the woman I love. It hurts me to have to talk to you like this..."


    In the past, he never cared about his parents verbally abusing Bella because he never cared about her and their marriage. But now? It is Different.


    He saw her differently from the past. He started to have feelings for her since she left his life. Bella is his woman¡ªa person who gave birth to his son.


    How could he ignore someone who insulted her and spoke ill of her? He knew Bella wasn¡¯t like that.


    He was willing to stand up to anyone, including his parents, to protect Bella from insults.


    ... sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, not even her well-defined features could hide the shock on her face hearing Tristan already falling in love with Bella. Though she opened her mouth several times, she could not find any words to reply to him.


    She sat silently, gazing into Tristan¡¯s eyes. Her hands clenched tightly, holding back her emotions and sadness.


    How could she lose her son because of that damn woman!?


    A woman who cannot bear children for their family. A woman who only wants to get money from them.


    She couldn¡¯t let them get back together.


    She had to stop them!


    ¡¯My lord... Please... Don¡¯t do this to my family. Stop them from reuniting!¡¯ Jessica prayed in her heart. She couldn¡¯t imagine what would happen to the Sinclair family if Tristan returned to Bella¡¯s arms.


    Jessica gritted her teeth before finally saying,


    "T-Tristan, how can you talk to your mother like that?" her voice sounded shaky, and her eyes reddened as she held back tears. "I¡¯m your mother. I gave birth to you. Why are you angry with me because of that woman?"


    Tristan closed his eyes, feeling frustrated when he saw his mother whimpering, almost crying.


    With tears in her eyes, Jessica pleaded to Tristan not to tear their family apart by returning to Bella and bringing her back into the family.


    "Tristan, I beg you... just this once, please think carefully, huh!?" She asked between tears. "If you return to Bella, you won¡¯t have children with her. Tristan, you¡¯re thirty-six years old; you can¡¯t waste your time with her..."


    Tristan remained silent.


    When Jessica saw Tristan not saying anything, she tried to plead again with tears. Maybe he would falter if he saw her cry. She would do anything to save this family.


    "Alright... Alright...Do whatever you like¡­ I¡¯m only a poor mother," Jessica said while wiping her tears. "And I love you, my son. If you still want to be with her, I will bless you¡ª"


    Tristan slightly raised his eyes, surprised to hear that.


    ¡¯Huh! Did she already give in? That¡¯s so fast!?¡¯ He felt suspicious.


    "¡ªbut, you have to marry Laura Kiels. Make Laura your legal wife. Let her give birth to an heir to our family. You know she can get pregnant. She¡¯s a very healthy lady. In the past, if she wasn¡¯t stressed because you ignored her, you already have a child with her..."


    Tristan was shocked beyond words to hear her words. If a sharp glare could kill, his mother before him would be in pieces already.


    His hand clenched into a fist before saying, "Mother, if you still tell such vile lies, then I¡¯m sorry you will lose your son forever!"


    His words were like a blow to Jessica¡¯s head. She couldn¡¯t help but started to cry again.


    "Hua...hua... Tristan, how dare you want to sever your tie with your mother!?"


    Tristan stood from his seat and walked ahead without saying a word, ignoring his mother, who cried while screaming his name.


    "Stop right here, Tristan Sinclair!" Jessica shouted. "If you choose her, offer me... I will go to the mountains to become a monk... No, I will commit suicide. I am a useless mother because I have a son who doesn¡¯t love me anymore..." she continued between sobs.


    She could no longer hold back her tears, too hurt to know her only son chose that bitch.


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s steps stopped.


    He took a deep breath before turning to look at his mother, who was walking towards him, her eyes now bloodshot, and her makeup faded from her tears.


    "Tristan, listen to me... I will kill myself if you choose her..." Jessica¡¯s voice was cracking as she cried and sobbed.


    "Mother, why do you hate Bella so much? Has she ever hurt you?" Tristan was confused.


    Jessica¡¯s eyes blinked several times as she looked at him, "This... This... family needs a successor, Tristan. And you are our only hope..." She said, avoiding Tristan¡¯s question.


    Tristan took a deep breath while pinching his forehead before saying coldly, "Why bother, Mother? Even grandfather, who should be worried about not having a successor to carry on his name, never forced me to have children..."


    "That¡¯s because he didn¡¯t want to stress you."


    "We will end the discussion about this any longer. And remember, never ever try to hurt Bella again." His sharp eyes locked with her confused gaze. "If you do that, I will not stay still!"


    Tristan didn¡¯t allow his mother to speak as he left the room.

 Chapter 86: Dax’s Decision

    Supposedly, this night was meant to be a happy dinner with his family after so many years of not sitting at the same table. But Tristan¡¯s mood dropped below zero, and sitting with his parents felt like a disaster.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t enjoy his dinner at all. He finished his food as if he had eaten tasteless fare.


    While his parents chatted, everything they discussed seemed to pass from his right to his left ear.


    Tristan¡¯s earlier conversation with Jessica had successfully created discord between them. He didn¡¯t say a word to Jessica, and vice versa.


    After dinner, Tristan immediately bid them goodbye. But before he left the house, he had already warned his grandfather not to expose any information about his son, Dax, to his parents.


    Deep inside, he began to suspect that there was something that made his mother hate Bella so much. Before allowing his son to enter his family, he needed to discover what happened and act based on it.


    ****


    While at Bella¡¯s house.


    Bella asked Dax to come to her bedroom. She needs to speak to him about Tristan¡¯s plan to meet him.


    When they sat on the sofa side by side, she didn¡¯t talk to him immediately about her intention. Still, she tried to make Dax to tell her about what he did today with his Great-Grandpa.


    "Mommy, today Grandpa Sinclair brought us to his seaside house. Even though the house didn¡¯t have a white sandy beach, there¡¯s a long dock on the sea..."


    He continues telling his mother everything he did with his two great-grandparents.


    They enjoy fishing, eating, and playing chess like they usually did when they were still in the Lake View Village.


    Bella¡¯s heart felt warm as she heard the joy in his tone and saw the light beaming from his eyes. She couldn¡¯t help but smile, feeling his happiness.


    "Are you happy to spend your day with them?"


    "Yes, Mommy, I¡¯m so happy. Great Grandpa Sinclair said he would take me to his island so I can play on the white, sandy beach."


    "I am so happy to hear that, Baby," she said while rubbing his chubby, blushing cheeks. "But if you go outside next time, wear sunscreen, alright? Your skin is sensitive. Look... how red your cheeks are now."


    Dax crossed his arms and let out a sigh. "Aunty Noora forgot to bring it for me."


    "I will remind her next time."


    "Oh, Mom, you wanted to talk to me about something?" Dax¡¯s beautiful blue eyes blinked as he looked at his mother, curious to know what was on her mind.


    She smiled before telling him, "Yes. Actually, I met your father and talked about you," She paused when she saw his expression slowly turn stiff. "He wants to meet you..."


    "He wants to meet me?" Dax repeated his mother¡¯s words.


    "Yes. But I didn¡¯t agree right away before asking you. So¡ª" Bella¡¯s voice hung in the air, waiting for him to respond.


    She couldn¡¯t force him to meet Tristan because Dax was very sensitive, and his way of thinking was unlike that of children his age. She had to be careful with him. She didn¡¯t want him to feel hurt because of what had happened between her and Tristan. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "When?"


    "Whenever you are ready," Bella answered. Looking at how calm he was now, she felt slightly relieved. At least his stiff expression had faded.


    Dax was silent for a moment as if he was thinking about something.


    "Baby, if you don¡¯t want to see him now, I won¡¯t force you," she smiled at him, trying to make him feel less burdened.


    "I didn¡¯t say... I don¡¯t want to meet him, Mom," Dax answered.


    Bella was surprised. She tilted her head slightly to see his face, to know his expression, "Seriously, you want to meet him?"


    "Hmm, of course. Why should I refuse?" He said.


    Dax would not refuse to meet his father because he had something to ask him. Something that his mother never answered every time he asked.


    Bella was amazed to hear his answer. When she was about to say something, Dax spoke again,


    "I¡¯m just trying to remember if I have an appointment tomorrow to play online games with my gaming friends..."


    Bella, "..."


    "And, did you have an appointment?" She asked calmly. Even though inwardly, she held back her laugh after knowing Tristan was only number two on Dax¡¯s agenda. Her son preferred his gaming friend to his father. Sigh!


    Dax took a deep breath, remembering he had an appointment to stream a game with Bitter_Coffee.


    The man had been asking him to play all day, but he was too busy playing with his great-grandfather, so he didn¡¯t have time to go online with him.


    And before dinner, he had promised to play with Bitter_Coffee tomorrow, but now his father wanted to meet. He felt slightly puzzled.


    "Mommy, can you ask him if I can bring my laptop!? I mean, I want to play for one hour. I¡¯ve made a promise to my friend, and it would be rude if I cancel again..."


    Bella nodded immediately when she saw how adorable her son was pleading to play the game.


    "But, Baby... I want you to remember something. I only allow you to play games suitable for your age!" She warned him.


    "No worries, mom. We just played Roblox and Online Chess."


    "You¡¯re playing with Bitter_Coffee again?" Bella asked. She knew some of his gaming friends because she had peeked several times while they were playing.


    "Yeah. He is so stupid! Tomorrow, I promise to teach him a few tricks¡ª" Dax continued to explain his gaming to her.


    However, Bella couldn¡¯t understand the games he played. She only smiled at him, pretending to understand what he said.


    "Ok. That¡¯s very nice of you, Dax. Your friend must be excited. Anyway¡­, tomorrow, we will meet your father. Are you excited about that?"


    "Really? Of course, mom. He¡¯s my father nonetheless."


    "Very well, I¡¯ll contact him," Bella said while pulling him into her arms. And she hugged him tightly until he struggled to get free.


    "Ugh, mommy... stop... I¡¯m not a baby anymore, alright!"


    "You are still a baby. You will always be my baby, little man!!" She said while kissing his cheeks.


    Dax, "..."

 Chapter 87: Good News

    After spending some time in Dax¡¯s room accompanying him to sleep, Bella immediately returned to her own room. She needed to make a call to Tristan to share the good news.


    When Bella was about to call Tristan, her phone rang, and she saw his name on the screen.


    "Oh my goodness! How did he know I was going to call him?"


    Bella immediately picks up his call.


    "Hi, Tristan..." Bella said as she walked towards the window and looked towards his house ¡ª coincidentally, the window faced his house.


    Even though Bella couldn¡¯t see anything, only the shadow of the tree under the moonlight, she felt like she was speaking before him.


    "Hi Bella, I¡¯m sorry to call you now. I worry something might happen to you because you didn¡¯t text me as you promised..."


    Bella lightly slapped her forehead. After returning from his house, she was mesmerized by Dax¡¯s cuteness, causing her to forget about him completely.


    "Ugh, apologies, Tristan. Earlier, I forgot to text you."


    "It¡¯s fine. Now I feel relieved you are safe at your house."


    Bella smiled while shaking her head slightly. She felt odd hearing Tristan worrying too much about her as if someone was after her life.


    "Well, I just talked to Dax. And he agreed to meet you tomorrow."


    "Re-Really?" Tristan felt like he was on cloud nine, so happy. Finally, the moment he had wished for had come true ¡ª meeting Daxton, his son.


    "Yes. So, where can we meet?"


    Tristan thought for a moment. He planned to meet them at his house but worried Dax would be bored. He also considered meeting at another place, like a theme park.


    After thinking for a few seconds, he decided to meet them at his house because he needed to spend quality time with his son and Bella. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Bella, how about meeting at my house? This house is near your house, so it will make it easier for you to get here," He asked, worried that Bella would refuse. "¡ªor would you prefer to meet somewhere else?"


    "I guess it would be okay if we met at your house. Besides..." Bella told Tristan about Dax¡¯s request. He needed to bring his laptop, which meant he needed a desk to play with.


    Tristan was shocked to hear his son already had a laptop; he was not even five.


    "H-He already knows how to play online games?" Tristan asked, puzzled. He thought a four-year-old boy would play with action figures or watch cartoons.


    Bella chuckled when she heard his shocked expression.


    "You seem to forget what I told you before. Well, Dax was different from the other kids. He can read and has been interested in computers. I will not tell you now; you could see and speak to him tomorrow."


    Tristan nodded. He can¡¯t wait any longer. He was too excited.


    "Alright. I will arrange for you guys to have lunch and dinner here. Is that fine?"


    "Yeah... that¡¯s fine. Just make sure you provide a room for him to take his nap¡ª"


    "Do you want me to pick you up?"


    "No need," Bella was speechless. She didn¡¯t even need to drive there. "I will drive by myself. Besides, my Grandpa will scold you if he sees you."


    Tristan silently gulped. He was aware that Isaac Donovan really hated him.


    The last time he met Isaac Donovan was when his grandfather forced him to meet him to beg forgiveness for mistreating Bella.


    He vividly remembers Isaac¡¯s last words for him, "I don¡¯t want to see your face appear in front of me again!"


    Now, Tristan feels in trouble because he has plans to return to his granddaughter.


    He rubbed his brows, feeling depressed remembering those moments and thinking about the harsh path he would take to get her back.


    "Very well. So, what time will you guys come?" He asked.


    "Maybe eleven."


    "Okay. See you tomorrow, Bella," Tristan said. He needed to end the call to inform Geoffrey to prepare everything. "Alright, you must be tired. Go sleep now, let¡¯s talk again tomorrow."


    Bella didn¡¯t refute. She is indeed feeling tired. Since arriving in this city, she has been busy with office matters.


    She feels exhausted.


    ****


    The next morning.


    Bella needs to start physical training again because she hasn¡¯t done it since returning to this country. Now, she worries that her body will return to being as fat as before.


    When she arrived at the first floor, she was surprised to see that her Grandpa had already woken up and was wearing his usual home clothes, a turtleneck green.


    He was immersed in reading a book near the window with the backyard garden view.


    She approaches him. "Good morning, Grandpa," When Isaac saw her, she continued. "Why do you wake up early? This is not even seven?"


    Isaac smiled when he saw Bella. He was surprised to see her wearing her running outfit.


    "Morning, dear... You don¡¯t seem to know!? We old people can¡¯t sleep much. We sleep early, and we also wake up early."


    "Ah, I see..." She said while trying to set her running watch.


    "You will run outside or in the gym?" Isaac asked, curious to see her even wearing his windbreaker jacket.


    After she sets her watch, she looks at her Grandpa again, "I will run outside. I plan to run to the peak of the hill behind. Nick said the scenery there was stunning..."


    "Yes, true. You should go there to see the sunrise."


    Isaac feels happy to see Bella now, looking so much healthier. He heard from Noora that a year after Bella gave birth to Dax, she started doing physical exercise and also learned martial arts.


    But looking at how skinny she was now worried him.


    "Bella, don¡¯t force yourself to exercise," Isaac didn¡¯t want her to do the extreme diet again and force herself to learn martial arts.


    "It¡¯s only five miles round trip, don¡¯t worry, this easy for me." She chuckled. "Oh, right... I forget to tell you. I will go out with Dax today."


    "Go out?" Isaac was surprised. "Where?"


    "To meet Tristan..."


    Suddenly, Isaac¡¯s expression turns sour.

 Chapter 88: She Becomes Weak

    "Go out?" Isaac was surprised. "Where?"


    "To meet Tristan..."


    Suddenly, Isaac¡¯s expression turned sour. He looked Bella in the eyes, feeling confused.


    "Why didn¡¯t he come here? Why meet outside?"


    Isaac felt concerned about Bella meeting outside, especially when it was an official meeting between Dax and Tristan. The paparazzi might take pictures of them. Meeting in a private place like this house would be better.


    Bella was left speechless upon hearing his question. She still remembers his Grandpa telling her that he would beat Tristan if he appeared before him again.


    "Grandpa, maybe Tristan is afraid of you..." Bella casually said, but Isaac¡¯s expression darkened. He cleared his throat and turned to the book on his lap.


    "Didn¡¯t you say you will run? Why do you cosplay into a dummy!" he said without looking at her.


    Bella smiled before she excused herself and vanished from Isaac¡¯s line of sight.


    When he heard Bella walk out, Isaac could only take a deep breath.


    "Nick¡ª"


    Suddenly, Nick appeared from the connecting door to the dining room. "Yes, master?"


    "Did you hear?"


    "Yes. I heard," Nick replied. He is standing beside Isaac.


    "It seems like that old geezer Lewis is telling the truth. They will get back together again," Isaac took another deep breath as if trying to feel as much air as possible in his stuffy chest.


    As Bella¡¯s Grandpa, he felt concerned about his granddaughter. He didn¡¯t want Bella to suffer again if she entered the Sinclair Family.


    "I also think it¡¯s possible, Master. I could see Master Tristan had greatly changed."


    Isaac closed the book again and turned to see Nick. "What do you mean? Did you ever meet him again?"


    "No, I have not met him again. However, I recently discovered that the empty house next to us has a new occupant," Nick said with a smile. "Last night, I found out who the owner is."


    "Who?" Isaac asked, puzzled by what Tristan had to do with the empty house next door.


    "Young Master Tristan. He moved the same day we moved here."


    Isaac gasped in surprise. He couldn¡¯t believe that brat was making a move that fast. He even moved next door to their house!


    "Are you sure?" Isaac asked again. It was hard for him to believe.


    "Yes, I¡¯m sure. Last night, I bumped into Geoffrey, Young Master Tristan¡¯s Butler. He seems busy preparing a party. He buys so much stuff..." Nick explained everything he knew.


    Isaac was speechless hearing that. He shook his head lightly while looking at the garden outside, lost in his own thoughts.


    After a few moments, Nick asked again, "Sir, why do you look concerned, Young Lady and Master Tristan getting back together?"


    Isaac turned his gaze to Nick. The light in his eyes slowly turns gloomy, causing Nick to grow concerned about his Master¡¯s stress level.


    "I¡¯m not worried about Tristan. But, his parents. Especially his mother, even Lewis can¡¯t stand with his daughter-in-law."


    "I see," Nick didn¡¯t ask anymore; he knew what his Master was referring to.


    Nick didn¡¯t stay longer in that room. He immediately excused himself to return to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for the family.


    ****


    Bella regretted chatting too long with her Grandpa because the sky now looked brighter. She had missed the sunrise.


    She did a few simple stretching movements before running to the main gate.


    When Bella arrived at the house¡¯s main gate, she met two houseguards. They were both shocked to see her. They immediately greeted her respectfully before opening the gate.


    "Young Miss, are you going to run alone? Do you need company?" The guard asked, worried to see their young miss about to run alone in this place for the first time.


    Bella turned to him, "Is this area unsafe?"


    What she knew was that Little Heaven was restricted. Only the homeowner could enter this place.


    "It¡¯s safe, don¡¯t worry."


    "Okay. You don¡¯t need to accompany me. I¡¯ll run myself..." She said and started running toward the hills.


    Bella was happy because Little Heaven had special walking, running, and cycling paths under shady trees. So she didn¡¯t need to run in the streets.


    However, with facilities as good as this, she didn¡¯t see anyone exercising like her after a few minutes of running.


    Rich people here didn¡¯t have time for sports. Even if they did, they would choose to build their gym, like her grandfather.


    But, as someone who used to live in the wild while still residing in northern Sweden, Bella preferred activities outside the home.


    Going for a run in the mountains or the forest would be fantastic, and it could also calm her mind if she were alone in a place like this.


    After fifteen minutes, Bella finally arrived at the top and was surprised to see the view from there.


    In front of her, Bella witnessed an open blue sea stretching as far as her eyes could see. And when she looked back, she saw the city.


    "What a nice view..." She mumbled while catching her breath, which fell short.


    Bella wasn¡¯t happy with her current running results. After running only two and a half miles, she was already panting.


    Luckily, this morning¡¯s weather was pleasant; the sun was shining, and the temperature was not so cold; it tended to be warm.


    "Gosh! Looks like I¡¯m falling behind..."


    Bella was worried about her weak condition after arriving in this country. It would be troublesome if that person knew.


    Sigh!


    She put aside her worries for now and ran back to her house. This time, she sprinted, raising her pace.


    At a different speed than when she had run to the peak, she only took eight minutes to arrive at the area near her house.


    "Not bad!" She smiled, looking at her sports watch. While walking toward her house gate, she saw Geoffrey driving a car and waving at her before she entered.


    "Good Morning, Young Madam..." Geoffrey politely greeted her and stopped his car near her. He was happy to see her again after discovering she had given birth to his Master¡¯s son. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 89: The House Next Door

    "Hi, morning Geoffrey," Bella smiled back at him. "You¡¯re out this early?"


    "Yes. We just returned from the market to buy ingredients for lunch..." Geoffrey explained.


    Geoffrey was not supposed to buy them himself. But his Master urged him not to make any mistakes. So, he didn¡¯t have a choice but to accompany the chef. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ah..." Bella could only give him a sympathetic smile, feeling sorry for Geoffrey; he had to be busy.


    "Please let him know we will arrive at eleven."


    "Yes, mam."


    Bella smiled at Geoffrey, then excused herself and entered her house gate.


    ....


    Geoffrey drove his car back to their house. After helping the chef and maid unload their stuff, he immediately entered the house to wait for his Master to wake up.


    However, when Geoffrey entered the living room area, he was surprised to see Tristan sitting on the sofa while reading something on his iPad.


    ¡¯Huh!? Master already awake?¡¯


    Geoffrey was stunned at how handsome Tristan looked in his white shirt with long sleeves that he had folded to his elbows, paired with khaki trousers.


    It was rare to see Tristan in this outfit while he was home on a Sunday, specifically when the sun was still shy in the morning.


    Geoffrey put aside his surprise and walked toward him.


    When Tristan heard footsteps approaching, he lifted his head to look. He turned back his gaze to his iPad upon seeing Geoffrey.


    "Good morning, Master," Geoffrey said, standing a few steps away.


    "Hmm, morning, Geoffrey!"


    "Master, I think you woke up too early. We still have¡ª" Geoffrey checked his watch. "¡ªmore than three hours before Young Madam and Master arrive, and the breakfasts are still being prepared. It would be best if you rested again in your room, Master. I will call you once your breakfast is ready..."


    "Don¡¯t worry, Geoffrey. It¡¯s fine. I will wait here," Tristan said without looking at Geoffrey.


    "Yes, Master. In that case, please excuse me... I will expedite the preparation of your breakfast now," Geoffrey bowed slightly and retreated. But before he walked far, he stopped and looked at Tristan again. "Master, I forgot to tell you... Just now, I met Young Madam outside.


    She just returned from her morning run."


    "Bella, doing a morning run?" Tristan was surprised to hear that. He never knew she liked exercise during their marriage. He glanced outside, "I thought it was still cold... And she still runs?"


    "Yes. I guess she ran to the peak earlier."


    "She runs alone?"


    "Yes, Master, I don¡¯t see anybody else with her. I think Young Madam ran alone."


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything. He dismissed Geoffrey to leave him alone.


    As Geoffrey left, a smile spread across his face. He thought about running to get closer to her as well.


    He feels excited.


    Tristan took his cell phone and made a call. On the first ring, Dylan¡¯s polite voice was heard.


    "Hello, Boss, good morning. Is there anything you want me to do?"


    "Yes. Could you buy outdoor running clothes and accessories for me? Buy every piece of clothes and accessories runners usually wear these days. Buy the best brands and several pairs¡­or sets for spares."


    Dylan, who had just woken up in his apartment, was shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s order.


    ¡¯Boss, want to do an outdoor run?¡¯ Worried that this was not real and he was dreaming, Dylan pinched his cheek and was shocked when he felt the pain.


    "Bo-Boss, since when have you wanted to exercise outdoors!?"


    "I didn¡¯t call you to discuss it, Dylan. I called you to order you to buy it for me."


    Dylan scolded himself inwardly for asking that. "Hahaha, sorry, boss. Consider it done..."


    "Bring it to my house this afternoon!" Tristan said, ending the call without giving Dylan a chance to speak.


    After Tristan hung up the phone, he made another call.


    ...


    Max crawled under the blanket and sat on the edge of the bed, squinting at his phone, which was still ringing on the nightstand.


    When Max saw Tristan¡¯s name there, he sat up straight and immediately picked up the call.


    "Morning Boss..."


    "Max, has Geoffrey called you yet about today¡¯s schedule?" Tristan asked.


    Last night, he had heard that Dax was interested in computer science. He needed Max in his house to teach his son about computers.


    "Yes, boss."


    "Don¡¯t be late to come here. You have to arrive at ten."


    "Ugh, Boss... I¡¯ve been at your house since last night. I slept in the guest pavilion at the back," Max explained.


    "That¡¯s good. You can come to the main house at ten. I need to talk to you first before you meet Dax."


    "Yes, Boss. I will."


    ****


    Before eleven, Bella and Dax were ready to go to Tristan¡¯s house.


    When they arrived downstairs, they met Isaac Donovan, who seemed to be waiting for them.


    "Are you guys ready to go?" Isaac asked. His eyes fixed on Dax, and he smiled, admiring how handsome Dax looked in his gray hoodie training set and white sneakers.


    "Yes, Grandpa. We don¡¯t want to be late for our lunch..." Bella felt terrible about lying to her grandpa, but she also felt odd telling him that Tristan¡¯s house was beside theirs.


    "I see. Are you sure you don¡¯t want Nick to drive you there?" He asked, maintaining his calm expression, holding back his laughter. He knew they were going to the house next door.


    "No, thank you, Grandpa. I will drive..." Bella immediately answered.


    "Alright, you guys can go now."


    Bella, in a hurry, walked out with Dax. Soon, their car left the yard, and Dax felt excited. He glanced at her.


    "Mommy, are we going to the city!?" Dax asked, curious to see this city. "My Father lives in the apartment?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. She drove in silence; not long after, their car turned left. Soon, they saw a massive black gated door.


    "Huh... Why...!?" Dax was confused as he looked at the street behind him. This house was right next to theirs.


    He looked at his mother again and asked, "Didn¡¯t you say we were going to Tristan Sinclair¡¯s house... I mean, my father¡¯s house?"

 Chapter 90: Finally, Meet His Son

    Dax looked at his mother again and asked, "Didn¡¯t you say we were going to Tristan Sinclair¡¯s house... I mean, my father¡¯s house?"


    "This is your father¡¯s house," Bella answered.


    Surprised, He gasped as he watched the massive black gate slowly open, and the car finally drove in.


    "Are you excited?" Bella asked while glancing at him.


    "Yeah, a little. But I¡¯m not nervous because I¡¯ve seen his face many times before and already know about him."


    "That¡¯s good¡ª" Bella¡¯s voice trailed off when she saw Tristan standing at the main entrance with Geoffrey beside him.


    Her heart began to beat a little faster as she gazed at him.


    He looked exceptionally handsome in his casual white shirt, and his hair appeared slightly disheveled as if he hadn¡¯t styled it as usual. This made him seem much more approachable than when he wore his formal outfit in the last few days when they met.


    Bella didn¡¯t know why, but she felt nervous looking at Tristan for the first time after she returned to this country.


    She tried to calm her mind; she didn¡¯t want Tristan to see her nervousness.


    ¡¯Gosh, Bella... Calm... Calm... Alright... Calm!! How could you be nervous to meet him while Dax looks so relaxed?¡¯ Bella could only vent her frustration in her mind while parking the car in the usual spot.


    When Tristan and Geoffrey approached their car, she turned off the engine while looking at Dax.


    "Are you ready, Dax?"


    "Hmm," Dax answered without turning his gaze from Tristan. Seeing this man up close, he felt something strange in his heart.


    Second later,


    A smile graced Dax¡¯s face. He glanced at his mother quickly, "Mommy, I didn¡¯t understand. Why did you divorce him? I think he is handsome¡ª" he said and immediately opened the car door.


    He stepped out of the car and didn¡¯t allow his mother to say anything.


    Bella, "...."


    She could only laugh inwardly hearing Dax¡¯s words.


    Taking a deep breath, Bella immediately followed her son out of the car.


    However, she was stunned by what she saw. She witnessed Tristan and Dax speaking formally.


    They didn¡¯t look like father and son who had just met for the first time. Instead, they seemed more like business partners meeting for the first time to negotiate a deal.


    She stood behind Dax, suppressing her laughter.


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    "Hallo Dax... I¡¯m so happy to meet you finally," Tristan smiled warmly at him. He wanted to pull him into his embrace, but he held himself back, not wanting to scare him.


    Tristan continued to greet him, "I¡¯m Tristan Sinclair, your father. You can call me Dad, Daddy, Dada, Father, or whatever suits you."


    With a flat expression, Dax greeted him back. "Hello," reaching out his hand for a handshake. It confused Tristan, but he didn¡¯t make him wait as he accepted his tiny, chubby hand for a handshake.


    "I¡¯m Daxton Donovan. It¡¯s nice to meet you, too... Dad!" He said softly.


    Tristan silently felt like a sharp dagger stabbed his heart when he heard Dax¡¯s last name. He used Donovan¡¯s name, not his own. But when he heard Dax¡¯s last word, instantly, his upset faded.


    ¡¯He, call me... DAD!!¡¯ He rejoices in his heart.


    "Alright, let¡¯s continue talking inside..." Tristan paused, thinking of something. When he glanced at Bella, who looked relaxed behind Dax, he returned his gaze to Dax. "Can I carry you?"


    Tristan finally expressed what he wanted: to carry and hug his son.


    But it looked like his wish would not happen anytime soon because Dax immediately refused.


    "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m not a child. I can walk..." Dax answered politely, but it sounded like a firm rejection in Tristan¡¯s ears. Even though he felt sad, he could only smile at the rejection.


    Bella, who was standing behind Dax, couldn¡¯t help but speak. "Baby, you are still a child, alright!"


    Dax frowned as he looked at Bella. "Mommy, I¡¯m not a child anymore. I¡¯m a big boy now. I can walk by myself. No need to be carried around..." He protested with a stern expression.


    "¡ªBut you¡¯re still a child in my eyes, baby," Bella ruffles his hair gently. She never resists looking at how cute he is when he is annoyed.


    Dax pouted. His eyebrows furrowed. He opened his mouth a few times to answer her, but no words escaped his lips.


    Bella leaned closer to him and kissed him on his cheek. "I know... I only want to help you relax. I can see you¡¯re nervous now," she whispers.


    Dax remained silent for a moment before responding, "I¡¯m not nervous, Mom," he said, but his hand slightly raised, holding Bella¡¯s hand.


    Geoffrey stood beside Tristan, leaned closer, and whispered, "Master, have you noticed the resemblance between you and Young Master Dax? When you were his age, you looked just like him. Your faces, how you talk, and even your thoughts are so similar."


    Hearing Geoffrey¡¯s words was enough to make Tristan¡¯s mood arise. He feels proud because his child is very similar to him.


    "Really?" Tristan asks, even though he knows the answer. He sees himself in Dax.


    "Yes. You should watch your childhood videos, and you¡¯ll understand what I¡¯m saying." Geoffrey answer.


    A wide smile now graced Tristan¡¯s handsome face. He chimed in to join Bella and Dax¡¯s conversation.


    "Bella, my son is indeed not a child." When Dax looks at him with a half smile, he continues, "Little man, how about holding hands?"


    Tristan offers his hand to Dax. He felt so happy when he saw his little hand raise and hold his hand.


    "Hmm," Dax said.


    "Let¡¯s go inside..." Tristan glanced at Bella as he gestured for her to follow them.


    Bella followed behind, watching Tristan and Dax holding hands in front of her. Happiness filled her heart, and soon tears blurred her vision.


    These were not tears of sadness but joy, overwhelmed that Dax could finally meet his father after so much drama in their life.


    She didn¡¯t want them to know she was crying. She turns her gaze away to hold back her tears.

 Chapter 91: Can We Talk? Alone!

    And just before they arrived at the living room, Geoffrey appeared and walked beside her. She was somewhat surprised but quickly hid her teary eyes.


    "Young madam, thank you for giving birth to Young Master Dax. Thank you very much," Geoffrey said in a hushed but grateful tone.


    Geoffrey knew what had happened in the past, how the Sinclair family had abused Bella. Knowing she was still giving birth to Sinclair¡¯s successor touched him deeply. She was strong, managing her pregnancy, giving birth, and raising her child alone. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella remained silent, struggling to hold back her tears of joy as she watched her son meet Tristan. But seeing Geoffrey¡¯s tearful expression only served to sadden her further.


    She smiled gently at him before turning her gaze away, once again fighting back her tears. Thinking she had succeeded in hiding her emotions, she was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s voice close to her ear.


    "Bella, why are you crying?" he asked, his face filled with concern as he tilted his head to look at her.


    Dax¡¯s worries were similar to Tristan¡¯s. Immediately, he approached Bella and held her hand.


    "Mommy? Are you alright? Did this uncle make you cry!?" Dax¡¯s concerned voice sounds icy, like his cold gaze at Geoffrey.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why he thought like that?¡¯ Bella was surprised. She opened her mouth to explain. However, Tristan chimed in.


    Seeing Bella wipe away her tears, Tristan shot a glare at Geoffrey. He asked, "Why are you making her cry, Geoffrey!?"


    Geoffrey gasped in shock and shook his head to deny Tristan¡¯s accusation.


    ¡¯Heaven! How can Master Tristan and Young Master Dax not see that I am also crying now?¡¯ He felt helpless.


    "M-Master, Y-Young Master... Of course not. Why would I dare to do that!?" Geoffrey explained in a hurry.


    When Geoffrey noticed Tristan and Dax didn¡¯t believe him, he continued, "I¡¯m serious, master, please believe me... Y-Young Madam, please... Please explain..." He turned to Bella, seeking her assistance.


    With three pairs of eyes now on her, Bella smiled at them. "Tristan, you misunderstand. We were merely exchanging caring words to each other," she said, pulling Dax into a hug before fixing her gaze on Geoffrey again.


    "Could you perhaps fetch us something sweet to eat? My low blood sugar is acting up again¡­" Bella tries to divert the awkward situation.


    "Ma¡¯am, do you suffer from anemia?" Geoffrey asked in a panic.


    Bella could only respond with a slight nod, feeling guilty for lying to him.


    ¡¯Gosh!¡¯


    Geoffrey nodded hurriedly before excusing himself to find a cake and chocolates from the kitchen.


    "Thank you," Bella smiled at him, though her smile seemed forced.


    ...


    The three of them now sat in the living room. Bella sat side by side with Dax while Tristan sat across from them. His eyes never left Dax.


    Tristan wanted to talk to him about many things, but Dax ignored him and only looked at Bella.


    "Mom," Dax leaned his head closer to her, "¡ªis it true that you have low blood? Why do I feel worried about you?"


    Bella felt stunned when she noticed the worry in his eyes. She silently scolded herself for lying when Dax was around.


    She smiled at him, gently sandwiching his chubby cheeks with both hands before answering him in a whisper, "No. I¡¯m fine. I just ordered it because you like cake, right!?"


    Dax¡¯s eyes lit up when he heard about food. He nodded hurriedly, "Thank you, Mommy," he smiled.


    "It¡¯s okay, baby. I also feel like eating something," Bella said, then looked at Tristan. "Tristan, are you just going to stare at him? You guys can start to speak..."


    Bella struggles to contain her laughter as she sees Tristan, who appears awestruck by his son. He stares at Dax without saying a word as if looking at his idol.


    Tristan snaps out of his own thoughts. He has never felt this nervous, not even when meeting top entrepreneurs worldwide or the president of his country.


    Yet, encountering the cute and intelligent Daxton, Tristan feels as though his mind has betrayed him as if an invisible void has just sucked his thoughts away. Despite this, he finds this foreign feeling rather amusing.


    When Tristan notices Bella smiling at him, he feels even more flustered. His heart began to beat faster and more loudly as if war drums were beating inside.


    With these two precious people in his life now sitting in his home, he feels he has already achieved everything.


    He returns her smile before fixing his gaze on Dax. "Hi, Dax¡ª"


    "Can we talk alone?" Dax interrupts before Tristan can finish his sentence.


    "Sure," Tristan replies, feeling excited. However, Dax¡¯s request causes Bella to furrow her brow slightly. She tilts her head to look at Dax.


    "Baby, can¡¯t you talk here? Why do you want to speak alone?" She narrowed her eyes, looking into his eyes, trying to know what he was thinking. "Don¡¯t say... you trying to make a deal with your father?"


    Bella knew her son better, smart enough to go after what he wanted. She fears he might request something she hasn¡¯t permitted, like a gaming room, one of the birthday gifts he wanted for his fourth birthday last November.


    However, at that time, she only gave him a laptop.


    Now, she worries Dax might ask Tristan for that very thing. Or perhaps he plans to negotiate something else?


    "Mommy, sorry..." Dax¡¯s expression is serious as he looks at Bella. There¡¯s no trace of him being a typical four-year-old boy. "This is a conversation for men. I¡¯m sorry, Mommy... you¡¯ll just have to wait here for a moment."


    Bella remains silent, wanting to express her thoughts but holding back when she sees his seriousness. She only smiles at him while tousling his hair.


    "Alright, alright. Just don¡¯t keep me waiting too long, baby..."


    Tristan inwardly chuckles at the interaction between Bella and Dax. It¡¯s no wonder Bella says their son is different. Indeed, this young man is unique, resembling him, but in miniature form. Somehow, he feels proud of that.

 Chapter 92: Completely Confused

    Tristan immediately stood up from his chair.


    "Okay, son... Let¡¯s talk in my office." Tristan said to Dax. He then looked at Bella. "You may go upstairs if you want, Bella. There¡¯s a room you can use to rest, and about your cake, I will ask Geoffrey to take your cake upstairs."


    His lips revealed a barely noticeable smile when he saw her eyes slightly open wide, suprised.


    Bella tore her gaze away from him, feeling a strange sensation in her heart as she looked into his eyes.


    ¡¯Damn, Bells! Don¡¯t lose focus!¡¯ She mentally scolds herself while trying to calm her mind.


    "Hmm, okay," she accepts his offer, realizing she does need a private space to wait. There¡¯s a call she needs to make.


    Later, Bella follows them upstairs.


    This isn¡¯t Bella¡¯s first visit to this house or ascent to the second floor. She¡¯s no longer as nervous as before, especially with Dax by her side.


    What worried her now was the topic Dax wished to discuss with Tristan. That¡¯s what piques her curiosity.


    "Your room is here. The door in front of it leads to our son¡¯s bedroom; he can use it whenever he¡¯s here," Tristan explains casually.


    However, Bella is momentarily speechless at his words.


    She feels reassured hearing him refer to Dax as "our son" in front of the boy. She notices a smile forming on Dax¡¯s face upon hearing that.


    "Alright, we¡¯ll catch up with you later, Bella," Tristan excuses himself, then asks Dax to accompany him to his home office.


    Bella needed a few minutes to collect herself when she realized something.


    ¡¯Did Tristan prepare a special room for me? Why... Why did he do that!?¡¯


    It was hard for Bella to understand. She would have understood if Tristan had made room for Dax because he is his son.


    But why did he also provide a room exclusively for her?


    Bella frowned as her eyes lingered on Tristan¡¯s home office door for a few more seconds before she finally turned to look at the bedroom Tristan said was for her.


    Before she knew it, she was standing in front of the door.


    Slowly, her hand reached to open it. When the door finally swung open, what she saw shocked her.


    "T-This¡ª" Bella felt a surge of emotions overwhelm her.


    The room was decorated just like her bedroom when they were still married. She stepped inside and checked to see if he had also moved all the same furniture into this room.


    When Bella saw the familiar sofa in the corner, she could only gasp, too surprised to believe it was the same sofa she had once seen. Now, she realized even the bed was the same.


    Gosh!


    "Did he move all the furniture from my room to this place!? He must be... Why did he do that?" She was speechless as she scanned the room.


    When she noticed another door in the corner, her eyes narrowed.


    "That room must be a walk-in closet, right?"


    Bella¡¯s heart beat slightly faster as she approached the door.


    When she opened it, another wave of shock engulfed her.


    She took a deep breath when she saw that all the clothes and other belongings she had left behind years ago were in this room.


    After checking the room for a few more minutes, Bella walked out.


    She sat on the sofa and once again surveyed the whole room from where she was sitting.


    Being in this room felt like stepping back into the past when she was still married to Tristan. Everything she saw in the room was still the same.


    However, what sets this room apart from the old one is that it doesn¡¯t have a connecting door to Tristan¡¯s room. Also, there were no wedding photos in this room, as Bella had asked Aunty Noora to burn them all in the past.


    "Tristan Sinclair, what is the meaning of all this? Why do you insist on keeping all of this in your house?" Bella muttered to herself, feeling puzzled by Tristan¡¯s attitude.


    Since meeting with Tristan, Bella has noticed a significant change in him.


    He seemed entirely different from the one she once knew ¡ª almost like they were two different individuals. Such thoughts often crossed Bella¡¯s mind, leaving her completely confused about the situation.


    Deciding to set aside her curiosity for the time being, Bella reached for her cell phone.


    She had to take care of something important before starting her new job as the CEO of Quantum Capital.


    Bella dialed a number, and after the second ring, Leo¡¯s hoarse voice greeted her from the other end, sounding as if he had just woken up from sleep.


    "Wow, Leo, it¡¯s almost lunchtime, and you¡¯re just waking up?"


    "What? Why are you calling me?" Leo asked, ignoring her question.


    Bella¡¯s expression shifted as something dawned on her.


    "Did I call at the wrong time?" Bella asked. She starts to feel worried and wonders if Leo might be with someone.


    With no response from Leo, only a small groan from the other end, Bella¡¯s face flushed at the thought of Leo still in bed with his partner.


    Lightly slapping her head, she hurriedly said, "Ugh, sorry Leo, I¡¯ll call you later... or... you can call me."


    Beep!


    Bella promptly ended the call.


    "Oh no! What have I done?" Bella chuckled to herself, making a mental note to text Leo before calling him over the weekend.


    ...


    Glancing at her watch, she could guess that Tristan and Dax would need more time to speak.


    Bella decided to lay on the bed. However, before she could rise from the sofa, her cell phone, which she had tossed beside her, vibrated.


    Seeing Leo¡¯s name on the screen made her hesitate to answer. But, remembering the urgent matter she wished to discuss, she picked up the call.


    Before Bella could utter a word, Leo¡¯s slightly irritated voice came through, "Boss, you¡¯re so heartless! How could you hang up the phone after I just woke up?"


    "Oh, come on... we¡¯re not in the office. Talk to me like you usually do," Bella replied, ignoring his irate.


    Leo sighed deeply before asking, "¡ªalright, what do you want?"


    Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 93: Father And Son Talk (1)

    Leo sighed deeply before asking, "¡ªwhat do you want?"


    "Are you sure you can talk with me now? I thought you were with your woman..." Bella asked hesitantly.


    There was a chuckle from the other end. "And why are you concerned about my love life?" Leo¡¯s voice sounded more cheerful than before.


    Bella, "...."


    She tried to hear the voice on the other end. She could hear him walking and opening the curtains but didn¡¯t hear any woman¡¯s voice on the other end.


    "Leo, I just want to be a kind friend. I didn¡¯t want to bother you when you were with your woman... Ugh, well, not like what happened in the past, bro." Bella grinned, remembering that stupid past.


    When they were both still in college pursuing their master¡¯s degrees, she once arrived at Leo¡¯s apartment one morning. She saw a gorgeous woman leaving his place. The woman then scolded her, claiming that it was because of her that Leo had asked that woman to leave his apartment immediately.


    Upon thinking about the incident, Bella felt her face heat up again, embarrassed at the memory.


    She shook her head, trying to forget what had happened.


    "Hahaha, you like to poke someone else¡¯s wounds, huh!?" Leo laughs bitterly, hearing her words.


    Bella rolled her eyes, hearing his casual remarks, but somehow, his words stunned her.


    "I¡¯m sorry¡ª"


    "I told you before, I just broke up with my woman. That¡¯s why I decided to move here. Bella, you might forget, but... I¡¯m a man who doesn¡¯t fall in love easily!"


    Bella, "...."


    ¡¯Oh, God... Why was I ever falling in love with him?¡¯


    "Yeah, I know..." Bella smiled bitterly. This man was the first man who ever rejected her. And the second one is that icy prince, Tristan Sinclair.


    Bella took a deep breath, wishing to return to her past to correct everything ¡ª not to fall with them. This is a failure, tainting her love story. What a shame!


    "I¡¯m in my apartment," Leo¡¯s voice slowly changed from annoyed to gentle. He sighed deeply before continuing, "¡ªa certain man from the head office forced me to work till morning. That¡¯s why I could only climb into my bed when the sun rises on the horizon."


    Bella was surprised.


    "Wait! You still work for Jack, too?"


    "I told him last night was the last. Because tomorrow, I will only work for you and will not bother if he calls me." Leo explained.


    "You did the right thing!" Bella said in annoyance. "How dare he make you work again!? That foolish Jack already promised to let you go... But still, he makes you work for him!?"


    "Yeah!"


    "Don¡¯t worry, Leo, I will call him later and give him a piece of mind¡ª"


    "Hahaha, no need to waste your time and spend your international roaming to talk to him. He will still be as shameless as before," Leo can¡¯t help but laugh.


    "Ugh, you¡¯re right! Jack never changes!"


    "By the way, why did you call me?"


    Bella immediately told him what she learned from the report she read yesterday.


    The office matter she wanted to solve first was Stellar Entertainment.


    That company only makes them suffer. They have high operating costs, but their income never crosses the target they set.


    After she had investigated, many problems needed to be fixed. If the problem was complex, she planned to close that company. She doesn¡¯t want to maintain a company that operates in the entertainment sector.


    Her plan, Quantum Capital, will only focus on the other sectors that don¡¯t need too much public exposure, like the Entertainment Industry.


    Owning the entertainment industry worries her because the company is often exposed on the internet ¡ª one mistake from the talents will make netizens find out about Stellar Entertainment related to RDF Group. This worries her.


    Their initial plan to establish RDF Group as its parent company was to remain hidden behind the scenes. That was why, ever since their RDF started, she had firmly rejected the idea of ??Jack wanting to enter the entertainment industry.


    However,


    She couldn¡¯t stop Jack because a company like that could generate significant income for their company. But she asked him never to open in her country. Still, that foolish Jack opened Stellar Entertainment in this country.


    And now, what Bella feared came true. This company actually became a thorn in the company¡¯s side. What¡¯s worse is that one of their talents, although not directly related to her, is related to her ex-husband.


    How troublesome!


    After hearing her explanation, Leo finally said, "So, you want to clean up Stellar Entertainment for those reasons? Isn¡¯t it because we met Laura Kiels the other day?"


    A soft chuckle escapes Bella¡¯s lips.


    "Come on, Leo... that¡¯s ridiculous, alright! I never do business using my feelings. Obviously, I do that because she is an eyesore!"


    "Hahaha, I know it! That Laura must have bled your eyes. Alright... Alright... I will prepare everything you ask for," Leo replied. He knows Bella; she is ruthless in doing business but very talented in managing finance and risk.


    That¡¯s why Jack wants her to return to the company again. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, unlike other women he knows, this girl is not ambitious regarding wealth, power, and other pleasures ¡ª she always refuses to return. Despite everything, the only thing that makes her enthusiastic enough to abandon everything is food.


    ****


    Meanwhile, in another room, Tristan and Dax sat facing each other.


    Several minutes had passed, and the two stared at each other without a word.


    The tension in the room rose when Dax asked Tristan, "Why did you divorce my mom while she was pregnant?"


    This question left Tristan unsure of where to start. He was afraid that his answer would hurt Dax and Bella, too.


    He didn¡¯t want his response to jeopardize his chances of winning Bella¡¯s heart.


    However, seeing Dax¡¯s eyes looking anxious and disappointed, no longer as calm as before, made Tristan have no choice but to be honest with him.


    "Is the answer to that question important to you?" Tristan asked as gently as possible, not wanting to upset him.

 Chapter 94: Father And Son Talk (2)

    "Yes. This is very important to me. Because mommy never told me even though I asked many times," Dax explained.


    Once again, Tristan swallowed hard.


    After a few moments of silence, Tristan finally started to speak, "I don¡¯t know if you understand about arranged marriages. However, your mother and I got married because of that."


    "I know that." Dax¡¯s firm answer shocked Tristan.


    "Y-You already know about your mother and me being matched?"


    "Hmm... I know... I always hear Great Grandpa gossiping about you and Mom when I pretend to sleep."


    Tristan, "...."


    It looks like he needs to warn his Grandpa about it. He was afraid Dax would learn anything terrible from his Grandpa.


    "You already know but still ask?" A faint smile appears on his lips.


    Dax looks at Tristan silently before saying, "Dad, it looks like you didn¡¯t hear my question. OK, I¡¯ll repeat, why did you divorce my mom while she was pregnant?"


    Tristan, "...."


    Sigh!


    Tristan can¡¯t help but take another deep breath.


    Now, Tristan understands what Geoffrey said; Dax is indeed the reflection of him. He will never stop to ask if what he wants to know hasn¡¯t been answered. He will look for ways to find that answer until he is satisfied. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, he had no choice but to tell him the truth.


    "¡ªYour mother and I entered into an arranged marriage without any romantic feelings involved. Despite being married, we were unable to develop any love between us. This situation led to suffering for both of us. Eventually, I made the difficult decision to let her go and end our marriage..."


    Tristan¡¯s heart tensed as he saw Dax frown, fearing he might say something hurtful.


    He carefully continued his words, "I decided to end the marriage so that your mother would be free... because only then could your mother find happiness."


    "Why did you divorce her when she was pregnant?" Dax is having a hard time understanding this. "If you don¡¯t love my mother, at least you didn¡¯t let her go when she was pregnant, right!?"


    Tristan¡¯s face slowly darkened, imagining those moments.


    "I know I made a big mistake by letting your mother go. But, I¡¯m not going to defend myself by saying that I didn¡¯t know she was pregnant at the time... Or saying she never told me." Tristan said.


    "Mom, never told you?" Dax was suprised to know this. Another question arises. Why did his mother not let him know?


    "Hmm, if I knew, I would never let her go. Even if she begged me, I wouldn¡¯t let her," Tristan¡¯s voice trembled as the emotional wall he had built crumbled.


    No one knew that he had started to fall in love with Bella the moment she left, except for him. And soon, perhaps their son would know as well. It was hard to hide anything from him.


    "And I started to fall in love with your mother when she left..."


    Dax¡¯s calmness slowly changed. His gaze showed a flash of confusion and curiosity ¡ª he wanted to know what his father meant.


    As if he knew Dax¡¯s confusion, Tristan explained further, "I started looking for your mother¡¯s whereabouts since we separated. But I was late... your mother had already left the country. She even hid in a place I couldn¡¯t find."


    A bitter smile graced Tristan¡¯s lips before he continued, "I only found out about you in the last few days. That¡¯s why I asked to meet your mother and, of course, you."


    Tristan paused to take a deep breath while observing Dax¡¯s reaction. He could feel Dax¡¯s emotions stirring up; his eyes were slightly red, and it seemed like his defenses were slowly collapsing like his own.


    He stood up from his seat and moved to sit next to his son before continuing,


    "I was wrong... My son, I want to apologize to you for my actions in the past, for making your mother suffer, and for leaving you without a father beside you. I¡¯m really sorry¡ª"


    Tristan no longer cared if Dax would refuse, but he wanted to hold him at that moment. He pulled Dax onto his lap and hugged him tightly.


    "I¡¯m sorry, son... I¡¯m sorry. I promise you I will correct everything. I will not let you and your mother suffer again," Tristan whispered in his trembling voice.


    They hugged without saying a word for a long time. Tristan couldn¡¯t hold back his tears when he felt his son¡¯s body shaking in his arms.


    ¡¯He¡¯s crying!¡¯ Tristan realized Dax was crying.


    He simply let him cry in silence. Just like him, he also cried in silence for the first time in his life.


    Before long,


    Dax finally stopped crying. He looked up slightly to see Tristan¡¯s face. When their teary eyes met, a faint smile graced their faces. Their smiles seemed to convey a promise to no longer blame each other.


    "Do you forgive me?" Tristan asked after seeing that his son was not as tense and cold as before. Dax even smiled at him.


    "I don¡¯t think you need to apologize to me, Dad..." Dax said in his serious tone. "But, you should ask Mommy for forgiveness..."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but smile upon hearing his son¡¯s answer. He gently ruffled Dax¡¯s soft black hair. He is indeed correct.


    "Well, son... I¡¯ve begged your mommy for forgiveness a few times. But it seems like your mommy still hasn¡¯t forgiven me completely. But don¡¯t worry, son, I will try harder to earn her forgiveness and trust again." Tristan said.


    "Yeah, Dad, I will cheer for you," Dax smiled.


    "Thank you, son."


    "Oh, right, Dad, I read so much nasty news about you out there," Dax narrowed his blue eyes at his father. "Are all the reports true?"


    The smile gracing Tristan¡¯s face immediately disappeared after hearing Dax¡¯s question.


    "No! It¡¯s all rumors. Please, don¡¯t believe the gossip. I... also already explained this to your mom. I hope she understands."


    Dax was satisfied to hear his father¡¯s answer. This is what he wanted to hear. He didn¡¯t want to have a playboy father. He feared, one day, many new mothers would appear before him, claiming to be his father¡¯s wife. He couldn¡¯t imagine that happening.

 Chapter 95: Father And Son Talk (3)

    After a short while, Tristan said, "I need your help, son¡ª"


    "My help?" Dax was confused when he heard his father¡¯s words.


    "Yes, I want to pursue your mother back. I want us to be a family again. I really want us to live in the same house as other families," Tristan¡¯s eyes beamed when he uttered his deepest wish.


    "Are you serious, Dad? You know I¡¯m just a toddler, right?" Instantly, Dax¡¯s face turned tense, and he worried at the same time that his father¡¯s wishes would not happen.


    Even though he wanted that to happen, to have an average family like other children, he couldn¡¯t force his mother to accept his father back.


    "Yes. But you are brilliant for your age, Dax. And this has been my wish even before I knew you were born. I already wanted to chase your mom back the moment she left me," a hopeful smile tugged at the corners of Tristan¡¯s lips, hoping his wish would come true.


    Dax took a deep breath. He looked at his father with pitying eyes, causing Tristan, who saw him, to look confused; his smile slowly faded.


    Tristan gently placed his hand on Dax¡¯s shoulder, staring into Dax¡¯s eyes with his gentle look.


    He said, "Son, you don¡¯t seem happy to hear that? You didn¡¯t want us to live in the same house? As one family?" Tristan¡¯s voice sounded gloomy. "I wanted to reunite with you and your mother. Three of us living under the same roof..."


    Dax just shrugged and smiled before responding to his father. "Dad, of course, I want that. But it will be difficult for you to win Mom¡¯s heart back. Hmm... I think Mom already has another man¡ª" He felt sorry for his father.


    He knew his mother now had a close relationship with Uncle Sean. They were not just friends but more than that. And a few times, Uncle Sean had told him they would soon become family. He would not reject anyone who approached his mother as long as they sincerely loved her.


    ¡¯Sean Spencer!¡¯ Tristan could only vent his frustration in his heart when Sean Spencer¡¯s face appeared in his mind. Right now, only he was the person close to Bella.


    "You mean, your mom¡¯s other man is Sean!?" Tristan asked calmly, even though he was jealous of Sean.


    Dax¡¯s eyes blinked a few times, too shocked to hear that his father actually knew Uncle Sean.


    "D-Dad... You know Uncle Sean?" He asked.


    "I¡¯m not close to him. However, I know his parents well. Do you know who his family is?" Tristan was curious to know whether Dax had already met Sean¡¯s family.


    Dax slightly shook his head. He never knew Sean¡¯s last name and forgot to ask. "No, I didn¡¯t know..."


    Tristan felt relieved when he heard Dax¡¯s answer.


    "Well, son... you don¡¯t have to worry about Sean being my rival. He will never be successful in winning your mother," Tristan said confidently.


    He was sure that Sean¡¯s parents would never accept her into their royal family. Sean didn¡¯t stand a chance to marry Bella.


    Dax narrowed his eyes at his father. He noticed his father was too confident in winning back his mother.


    ¡¯Does he not see Uncle Sean as a threat?¡¯ Dax wondered.


    "Dad, Uncle Sean is handsome. He¡¯s also rich. And, he is a soldier¡ª" He only wanted to warn his father not to be too confident.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh, seeing how adorable his son was talking to him now. He could see how concerned Dax was for him. Once again, Tristan hugged Dax in his arms to feel his warmth.


    "Thanks, my son... for worrying about your daddy. That means now you are on my side. You will stand by my side to win your mother¡¯s heart, right!?" Tristan smiled warmly while tightening his hug.


    Dax, in Tristan¡¯s embrace, felt confused. ¡¯What does he mean? I never said that!¡¯


    Before Dax could correct his father, a knock on the door could be heard.


    "Yes!?" Tristan asks while loosening his embrace on Dax. They both looked at the door.


    "Master, it¡¯s me¡ª" Geoffrey¡¯s voice could be heard from behind the door. "I just want to bring cake and milk for the young master."


    Tristan turned his gaze lovingly at Dax. "Do you want to eat your cake now? Or later after lunch?"


    "Now, please..." Dax answered in a hurry. Chatting with his father was draining his energy. He needed to eat sweets and drink his milk.


    "Alright," Tristan smiled, noticing Dax¡¯s eyes were no longer as calm and cold as he usually saw. Now, he noticed Dax¡¯s eyes beaming as if there was a star in his eyes, just like Bella¡¯s when she saw food and was eating.


    Tristan looked at the door again. "You may enter!"


    ...


    Geoffrey entered the room with a round tray in his hand; however, after just a few steps, he abruptly stopped. Shocked by what he saw, Young Master Dax was now sitting on Master Tristan¡¯s lap.


    He felt touched by what he witnessed; his Master could finally hold his son. Since yesterday, he could sense how worried his Master was about meeting his son. His Master was afraid his son would hate him. But seeing how close they were now, it relieved him.


    "Why are you only standing there?" Tristan snapped.


    A barely noticeable smile graced Geoffrey¡¯s face before answering, "M-Master, I¡¯m sorry. I just felt something sting my eyes, and I felt like my eyes were teary¡ª" he walked toward the seating area.


    Tristan gazed at Geoffrey. He said, "If you want to cry again, do it outside."


    "Yes, sir..." Geoffrey smiled awkwardly at Tristan before he looked at his adorable young Master. He still found it hard to believe this cute, intelligent little boy was his Master¡¯s son.


    "Young Master Dax, this is your favorite chocolate cake and warm milk," Geoffrey said while placing them on the coffee table.


    "Thank you, uncle¡ª" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Young Master, please just call me Geoffrey," He corrected him right away, worried his Master would not be happy.


    "Uncle, my mommy taught me... it¡¯s impolite to call older people by their names. So, I will just call you Uncle Geoffrey." Dax calmly said, and he slipped from his father¡¯s lap to take his cake.

 Chapter 96: Father And Son Talk (4)

    After he took the plate, Dax returned to sit beside Tristan and started munching his chocolate cake, ignoring Geoffrey¡¯s worried gaze.


    Geoffrey, still stunned hearing Dax¡¯s words, smiled worriedly as he looked at Tristan. When he saw Tristan nod, confirming it was okay, Dax addressed him like that. He smiled and excused himself.


    However, before leaving, Tristan asked him, "Have you delivered the cake to Young Madam?" He remembered it was Bella who had asked for it.


    "Yes, sir. I served the cake to Young Madam before coming here. Young Madam was on the phone, so I just put the cake in Young Madam¡¯s room and didn¡¯t talk to her," Geoffrey explained.


    "I see," Tristan said, curious about who she spoke with. Sean? He shook his head slightly, trying to dispel his jealousy. "How about our lunch, Geoffrey?" he asked again.


    "Will be ready in thirty minutes, sir."


    "Marvelous," Tristan said, gently waving his hand to let Geoffrey know he may excuse himself from the room.


    Tristan held his chin with one hand while watching his son eat his cake. He didn¡¯t ask Dax anything and just let him finish his cake.


    Seeing how adorable he ate, mouthing his cake with his tiny mouth was amusing. Tristan could spot a few stains of chocolate near his lips.


    Dax devoured the four delicious slices of chocolate cake in just a few minutes; just before he wanted to take the last slice, he realized his father was staring at him. He turned to see him.


    "Dad, do you want to eat too?" Dax asked, looking at the last piece of cake on the coffee table as if he wanted to offer it to his father, but the look in his eyes betrayed him.


    Tristan tried to suppress his laugh, looking at his expression; he smiled at him before saying, "No, you go on eat."


    "Thank you." Dax took the last cake and continued to eat again.


    "Do you want some more?"


    Dax shook his head, "No. Mommy will scold me if I eat too much cake before lunch...or right after."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly, seeing that his son had just finished five slices of chocolate cake.


    And now, he was worried that if Bella found out, she would definitely complain to him to let their son eat too much.


    Tristan put aside his worries and took out his handkerchief to clean a few traces of chocolate on Dax¡¯s mouth.


    They continued to talk about various things. Tristan asked Dax about his hobbies and was surprised to learn that he liked computers, gaming, and eating.


    When it came to music, Dax mentioned he merely learned to pass the time. He confessed he didn¡¯t like sports or any physical activity.


    This amused Tristan because it mirrored his own interests, except for the eating part. It seemed his son inherited his mother¡¯s genes. Tristan recalled how Bella enjoyed eating many kinds of food ¡ª this is all he remembers about her besides her birthday.


    ...


    Not long after, Tristan began to feel worried about keeping Bella waiting for them for so long. A few minutes later, he suggested they check on Bella, fearing she might be bored from being left alone for too long.


    "Yes, Dad. Let¡¯s go..." Dax agreed, slipping from his seat and immediately heading to Bella¡¯s room.


    They were both surprised to find Bella sleeping when they opened the door.


    "Huh, Mommy was asleep?" Dax frowned slightly.


    "Looks like she¡¯s tired," Tristan said with concern. "Did she not sleep well last night?"


    Dax didn¡¯t answer immediately, but he stepped towards the bed. Tristan followed behind and was stunned to see Bella sleeping peacefully, looking beautiful and innocent.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t tear his gaze away from Bella. It was the first time he had seen her sleep so peacefully at this hour.


    In the past, he could only catch glimpses of her in their dimly lit or dark bedroom, as he only came into her bedroom after midnight and left early in the morning. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯You¡¯re such a fool, Tristan Sinclair! How could you not notice how beautiful she is? Just because you hated the idea of arranged marriage doesn¡¯t mean you should¡¯ve ignored her!¡¯


    Tristan desperately wished he could travel back in time and give his past self a firm smack on the head to jolt him awake from his foolishness.


    How stupid!


    ...


    Dax called Tristan a few times, but he didn¡¯t respond. His father seems in a trance, gazing at his mother; he smiles before taking his father¡¯s hand.


    When their eyes met, Dax said, "Dad, it looks like Mommy had too much food¡­ That¡¯s why she fell asleep," He gestured toward the empty plate on the coffee table.


    Dax was sure Geoffrey would¡¯ve given his mother the same slice of cake.


    Tristan turned to glance at the table, unable to suppress a smile when he saw the empty plate.


    "Shall we go outside? I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll wake up if we stay here," Tristan suggested, and Dax responded with a nod.


    As they approached the door, Bella¡¯s voice called out to them.


    "¡ªYou guys finished?" Her voice sounded hoarse.


    Tristan and Dax turned to see Bella sitting on the edge of the bed, surprising them both.


    "Mommy," Dax approached her with a concerned expression. "You can sleep more if you¡¯re still tired..."


    Bella tied her messy hair before smiling at Dax, her hand gently resting on his chubby cheek.


    Before she could answer Dax, she stole a quick glance at Tristan. Their eyes met briefly before she redirected her attention to Dax.


    "I¡¯ve slept quite a while. Have you finished chatting with Dad?" Bella whispered. She can¡¯t hold her curiosity about their conversation. Despite seeing them leave the room hand in hand when she woke up, she still wanted to hear from Dax.


    "Hmm, we had a nice chat. Don¡¯t worry, Mommy..." Dax reassured her, sensing her concern. "We came here because we were worried you might be bored waiting for us."


    "You did well, my son..." Bella said proudly to Dax.


    While they were chatting, Geoffrey appeared at the door, informing them that lunch was ready.

 Chapter 97: Sudden Arival

    The three of them walked down to the first floor.


    Once again, Bella felt touched as she witnessed Dax¡¯s closeness to Tristan.


    Bella was amazed at how quickly Tristan had captured Dax¡¯s heart. Usually, Dax¡¯s introverted personality and dislike of socializing made it difficult for others to approach him.


    She remembers when they arrived, Dax strongly objected when Tristan wanted to carry him.


    ¡¯But... why is this little guy so willing now!?¡¯


    ...


    When they arrive at the first floor, she walks fast to match Tristan¡¯s step, "Tristan, Dax is not a child anymore; he is four years old and can walk alone..." Bella said while shooting a sharp gaze at Dax, who glanced back at her, his eyes reflecting his protest.


    Bella, "...."


    "Baby, I recall you saying you¡¯re not a child anymore?" She reminds him.


    Tristan calmly reassured Bella, "It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s my first time carrying him. Please don¡¯t stop me."


    He was willing to carry his four-year-old son to make up for the lost time he had missed in the past. He deeply regretted not being there to witness his son¡¯s growth.


    Dax casually rested his head on Tristan¡¯s shoulder, his arms wrapped tightly around his neck, feeling content to hear his father¡¯s words. He glanced back at his mother, smiling.


    Bella was starting to get suspicious about what they were talking about. She needs to talk to Tristan about this matter. She is afraid they make a deal.


    As soon as they entered the dining room, the aroma of food made Bella and Dax smile.


    After seeing the rows of dishes carefully arranged on the table, Bella gasped in suprised.


    "Tristan, are you expecting more guests? Why did you prepare so many dishes?"


    She could see that there was enough food to serve twelve people.


    "No, this lunch is only for the three of us. But I asked my chef to prepare a special healthy dish for our son," Tristan explained as he pulled out a chair for Dax.


    After seating Dax, Tristan assisted Bella in settling beside their son before taking his own seat across from them.


    Geoffrey stood nearby, ready to serve them their drinks, while another maid entered the room, adding a few more dishes to the table.


    Bella was speechless.


    Did Tristan genuinely believe they could finish all this food? Why he seems wanted to make her fat again with this much food? Gosh!


    "Alright, let¡¯s eat..." Tristan said, his gaze fixed on Dax as he asked about the dish he wanted to try.


    Bella remained silent while Tristan assisted Dax. She also started to feel hungry when her eyes landed on the honey-grill lobster on the table.


    Just before they began to eat, another maid entered the room, whispering something to Geoffrey, who stood by in the corner.


    Instantly, Geoffrey¡¯s calm expression turned stiff.


    Geoffrey hurried over to Tristan, leaning in to whisper something urgently.


    Tristan¡¯s smile vanished.


    A shift in Tristan¡¯s expression was enough for Bella to notice something disturbing had happened.


    "Tristan, what¡¯s wrong?" Bella asks anxiously.


    He didn¡¯t respond immediately; instead, he exchanged a few words with Geoffrey before the latter disappeared from view. Finally, Tristan turned his attention to Bella.


    In a calm tone, he reassured her, "It¡¯s nothing. Please, you can start eating..." He smiles at her.


    Bella didn¡¯t buy his words. She could clearly see the annoyance in his eyes.


    "I could tell something was bothering you, Tristan. I¡ª" Bella¡¯s words trailed off as a burst of familiar laughter reached her ears from behind. She recognized the voice instantly.


    Not only did Bella recognize the voice, but Dax, too. He paused mid-bite, turning his attention towards the source of the laughter. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "G-Great Grandpa," Dax said in surprise. "You also come..."


    When Bella¡¯s gaze fell on Lewis Sinclair, who suddenly appeared here, she was at a loss for words.


    ¡¯Hadn¡¯t Tristan insisted that he hadn¡¯t invited anyone?¡¯ Bella wondered while turning her gaze at Tristan. She intended to ask Tristan about the situation.


    Still, she was speechless when she saw his sharp focus on Lewis Sinclair as if he was expressing his anger at him.


    Bella instantly realized Lewis Sinclair had come to this house without being invited. No wonder Tristan looks displeased.


    However, another question appears on her mind.


    ¡¯Why did Lewis suddenly appear here? Did someone tell him that we were visiting Tristan¡¯s house? Did My Grandpa tell him!?¡¯


    Looking at Lewis, she was shocked to notice the two men still engaged in a silent staring contest. They seemed to communicate through their eyes, without uttering any words, as if they were having a tense conversation.


    Not wanting any tension between the two men, especially in front of Dax, Bella promptly rose from her seat and warmly greeted Lewis Sinclair.


    "Grandpa, you came at the right time," Bella greeted him warmly while guiding him to the chair, "¡ªCome join us for lunch."


    When Bella wanted to direct Lewis to an empty chair, he refused and sat in her seat instead. She was stunned. Before she could say anything, Lewis called Geoffrey.


    "Geoffrey, can you move Bella¡¯s plate beside Tristan?" Lewis asked casually, but Bella felt dumbfounded hearing his instruction.


    "Yes, old master," Geoffrey swiftly moved Bella¡¯s plate and cutlery right next to Tristan.


    Bella, feeling flustered looking at how swiftly they change her seating next to Tristan.


    "...."


    She felt like this old man was trying something shameless again, like setting her up with his grandson. Again!?


    Somehow, she felt like she wanted to vanish from this place.


    Bella wanted to refuse, but when she saw Lewis ignore her and start conversing with Dax, she dismissed the idea and turned her gaze to Tristan. When she saw him smile sweetly at her, she swallowed silently, averting her gaze and walking to her seat.


    ...


    Tristan was annoyed with his grandfather¡¯s sudden arrival earlier, but now he slowly softened when he saw Bella sitting beside him.


    A satisfied smile appeared on the edge of his lips as they all started eating as a family. He felt blessed.

 Chapter 98: Completely Speechless

    Family lunch continued with Lewis Sinclair joining them.


    Lewis insisted on helping Dax with his lunch even though Dax seemed slightly annoyed by his Grandpa¡¯s help.


    On the contrary, Tristan felt excited because Bella sat next to him. His smile never left him; however, he was taken aback when he glanced at her, seeing her fierce gaze.


    Tristan put his cutlery on the plate and drew his head closer to ask, "Why do you look at me like you want to eat me?"


    When Bella wants to reply, Tristan speaks again, "Well, I don¡¯t mind if you want to devour me, Bella. Just say so¡ª" A soft chuckle escaped his lips, causing Bella to roll her eyes.


    "Are you saying this lunch is just for us? Why did Grandpa suddenly appear?" Bella asked in her barely audible voice. Only Tristan would hear her.


    Bella wondered whether this shameless Tristan had again arranged a trap for her. She narrowed her eyes, looking at him.


    "Did you believe if I said... I also didn¡¯t have the answer to your question!? I have no idea how he found out I stayed in this place because I told them I was living in my apartment all this time." He answers while feeding his eyes with her beauty.


    Looking at Tristan¡¯s gaze¡¯s seriousness, Bella was slightly puzzled.


    "This is odd, right!?" She still doubted that Old Sinclair knew Tristan was here without someone telling him.


    ¡¯Did Jessica Sinclair already know Tristan lived next to my house?¡¯ This thought started to worry her. If her evil ex-mother-in-law found out, she might come here. And she would definitely know about Dax.


    "Yeah! I¡¯m suspicious he¡¯s tailing me now¡ª" Tristan sighed deeply while glancing at his Grandpa, who looked so happy talking with Dax.


    Bella continued to eat again. But it didn¡¯t take long for a thought to cross her mind. She paused and looked at Tristan, "¡ªDid he know this place was one of your properties?"


    "Hmm, he knows. Frankly speaking, Your Grandpa¡¯s house was¡ª" Tristan paused when Geoffrey suddenly appeared beside him. He looked at him, "What is it?"


    It took a few seconds for Tristan¡¯s expression to turn ashen upon hearing Geoffrey¡¯s words.


    Everyone in the room was suprised to see Tristan¡¯s expression change.


    "What happened, Tristan?" Bella asked. She had the same expression as Lewis. They both looked at Tristan in worry.


    "Nothing," Tristan said. He wiped his mouth with a napkin before standing from his seat and glancing at her, "I will be back," He excused himself and walked outside, with Geoffrey trailing behind.


    "Everything alright, Tristan?" Lewis asked when he saw Tristan left outside. He was also starting to feel worried.


    Tristan halted, looking at his Grandpa and Dax. Everything was alright. You guys continue to eat. I will be back soon¡ª"


    Dax continued eating his food. While Lewis and Bella both thoroughly couldn¡¯t enjoy their meal. Their eyes were still fixed on the door leading to the main entrance.


    "It seems someone is coming," Suddenly, Lewis¡¯s voice echoed in the room, breaking the silence. "Is he waiting for someone?"


    Bella was slightly surprised to hear Lewis¡¯ question because she didn¡¯t know the answer.


    Bella was getting tense, wanting to know who would show up next. She hoped whoever would come was not the person she had in mind, Jessica Sinclair. If that woman appeared, Bella could picture her days no longer peaceful.


    She silently sighed deeply before answering Lewis, "I didn¡¯t know, Grandpa." Then glance at her son.


    Dax seemed to sense his mother¡¯s gaze and turned to look at her. They exchange smiles.


    Bella knew that even though Dax didn¡¯t seem to care about what they were discussing, he had heard everything and understood the situation. That boy was exceptionally perceptive for his age. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She tries to lift the mood and distract her worry.


    "Baby, do you need anything else to eat?"


    Dax shook his head.


    "I¡¯m full, Mom. But I still have room for dessert..." His eyes blinked at her.


    Bella was amused at how adorable Dax looked now, wanting his dessert.


    "Sure¡ª"


    "Oh, my dear Dax, want dessert?" Lewis chimed in. When he saw Dax nod, he called a maid who stood in the corner. "You can bring out dessert for the young master."


    The maid nodded and immediately returned to the kitchen area.


    ...


    Shortly after, several pairs of footsteps could be heard from the family room, causing Bella to turn her eyes towards the door.


    Bella¡¯s nervous hands were tightly clenched in her lap, anxious to know who that person would join them.


    Not only was Bella curious, but Lewis was too; he looked at the door with a deep frown.


    Before long, they both gasped in shock when Tristan appeared, followed by an unexpected figure.


    Upon seeing Bella, Tristan could only offer an awkward smile as he led the man behind him to sit beside his Grandpa.


    "Old geezer, why did you come!?" Lewis Sinclair asked in disbelief when he saw his best friend Isaac Donovan at this house.


    "You¡¯re so heartless, Lewis!" Isaac Donovan shook his head, feeling disappointed. "After I told you about this house, you didn¡¯t even tell me you would come. You betrayed me!"


    Lewis remained silent; he just smiled, ignoring Isaac.


    Isaac continued to vent his anger, "If Nick hadn¡¯t seen your car enter this house, I wouldn¡¯t know that you guys had a lovely family lunch¡ª" He paused, looking at his granddaughter, who appeared to gasp in shock at him.


    "Bella, my dear... it would be nice if you closed your mouth now," Isaac chuckled.


    Bella returned to reality and let out a deep sigh. She was confused; since when did her Grandpa know this house was Tristan¡¯s house? Did he pretend not to know when they talked this morning?


    She narrowed her eyes at her Grandpa. However, he ignored her; he turned his gaze to Dax.


    "Dax, have you finished your lunch?" Isaac asked.


    "Yes, Gramps. But now I¡¯m waiting for my dessert¡ª"


    Just as Bella was about to say something to her Grandpa, she felt a warm hand holding hers under the table. She blinked a few times before slowly gazing at Tristan beside her. Puzzled.

 Chapter 99: Holding Hand

    Bella blinked a few times before slowly gazing at Tristan beside her, puzzled.


    As if she wanted to convey through her gaze, "What the hell are you doing, Tristan Sinclair?"


    When Bella saw no reaction from him, only a calm look directed at her, she was speechless. She tried to pull her hand away; however, Tristan Shameless Sinclair¡¯s grip tightened.


    ¡¯Damn you, Tristan!¡¯ She couldn¡¯t help but curse him.


    Her eyes were shaking. She felt annoyed. But she couldn¡¯t get angry at that moment; Dax and their elder were at the table. She endured his grip while scolding him through her gaze.


    But once more, Bella felt nervous when she saw him lean closer to her.


    "Please, don¡¯t ask anything..." He whispered near her ear, causing Bella to feel goosebumps as his warm breath brushed her neck.


    Their faces were so close that Lewis and the others sitting opposite them could see them intimately as if they were kissing.


    Bella tilted her head slightly so she could look directly into his eyes. Her teeth clenched before she said in a low voice, "Please let go of my hand, Tristan!"


    She couldn¡¯t believe it; this man was holding her hand at a time like this when their two grandfathers were with them. What would they say if they saw it?


    However, the shameless Tristan didn¡¯t heed her request at all. Instead, he was seen putting on a miserable face, making Bella¡¯s forehead furrow, confused by his expression.


    ¡¯Why did he suddenly turn gloomy again? What is his plan again?¡¯


    Before Bella could say anything, Tristan said, "Did you know? Outside, your grandfather almost beat me. He warned me he would break my leg if I hurt you again, and he also said, for the sake of Dax, he will allow me to meet you¡ª"


    Bella was utterly shocked hearing that.


    Is it true that her Grandpa did that to Tristan? She felt touched. But also worried because her Grandpa had given hope to this shameless Tristan.


    "Please, Bella..." His eyes flashed sincerity and begged, causing Bella to waver once more. "Don¡¯t ask anything of him. Just stay still. I¡¯m worried our son will be sad if he sees our family fighting..."


    Bella opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but not a single word managed to escape her throat. She knew what Tristan said was true.


    She could only take a deep breath, trying to hold her frustration towards this man while making a mental note that she would talk to him later to draw a line between them.


    "Alright, I will not ask him. But release your grip!" Bella insisted. Looking at her determination, Tristan smiled while slowly releasing her hand.


    ...


    "Well... Well... Tristan, Bella..." Suddenly, Lewis Sinclair¡¯s baritone voice echoed in the room, surprising Tristan and Bella.


    They immediately sat upright, pretending nothing had happened before. Then, they are looking at Lewis.


    When Lewis met with their eyes, he continued calmly, "¡ªif you two want to make out. Do it somewhere else; there is a minor here. Please behave..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but scold Tristan in her mind while trying to calm her embarrassment.


    "Grandpa, please don¡¯t mind us..." Tristan calmly replied, smiling proudly. He felt in a good mood now. "¡ªcontinue eating, Grandpa, you too, Grandpa Isaac." He said politely.


    Bella remained silent.


    ¡¯Why does this shameless Tristan sound so happy?¡¯ She glanced at him, rendered speechless by how cheerful he was. His smile grew wider.


    "Dax, do you want more cake or ice cream? I will ask someone to bring some cake for you," Tristan looked at Dax, who was still enjoying his cake.


    "No, Dad. I¡¯m full now..." Dax said, then glanced at his mother. "Mommy, can I go to my room first? I need to do something¡ª" he didn¡¯t finish his words, but he was sure his mother knew what he meant ¡ª he needed to check on his gaming friend.


    "Alright, Mommy will accompany you." Bella immediately stood from her seat and excused herself to the two elders, now engaged in earnest conversation.


    ...


    Soon, Bella and Dax climbed to the second floor, but they heard Tristan¡¯s voice calling them before they arrived.


    "Wait, let me lead you both... Something I need to show you." He ran to approach them.


    Tristan reached out his hand to hold Dax¡¯s hand as they continued walking toward the room he had prepared for him.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She followed them from behind, curious about what Tristan wanted to show their son.


    "Dax, I have a gift for you. I prepared it for our first meeting. I hope you like it," Tristan said, his eyes beaming with excitement.


    "A gift..." Dax became curious about the gift his father would give him.


    Tristan nodded, glancing at Bella before he opened the bedroom door.


    When Bella and Dax saw the room, they were shocked and unable to utter a single word. They could only gaze in awe at the spacious room dominated by blue and red colors.


    What surprised them even more was seeing various action figures of Marvel superheroes in several corners of the room. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A large glass cabinet was attached to the entire wall near the bed, displaying expensive action figures of all the Marvel characters in various sizes.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly. She couldn¡¯t believe Tristan had decorated their son¡¯s room like this. But even though she appreciated his effort. In just a short time, he could create this bedroom for Dax.


    "Dax, do you like this room!?" Tristan asked excitedly. He knew that Dax would like the room; this is what a young boy likes nowadays.


    With only twenty-four hours, he had to ask Geoffrey to prepare everything quickly. Luckily, this room was finished this morning before Bella and Dax arrived.


    ...


    Dax didn¡¯t answer his father, who looked beaming joyfully at him.


    Instead, he looked at his mother, who was standing behind him, as if he wanted to ask his mother through his gaze, "Mommy, you didn¡¯t tell him that I don¡¯t like unimportant stuff like this!?"

 Chapter 100: Welcome Gift

    Bella seemed to see her son¡¯s dislike of the room from the look in his eyes.


    She could only smile sympathetically at him while gently stroking his hair. Then, she leaned closer and whispered, "Baby, can you just accept it... And pretend that you like the room?"


    Bella worried that Tristan would be disappointed if Dax were honest with him. She could sense happiness flash in Tristan¡¯s gaze. Besides, she also felt touched by his effort to quickly provide this room for their son.


    Dax blinked, looking at his mother, trying to understand her meaning.


    "¡ªWell, at least your daddy already made an effort to create this special room for you, dear..." She gently continued her words, trying to convince him.


    "Hmm," Dax nodded and smiled at his mother before gazing at Tristan. "Dad... I like it," he said, smiling even though it seemed forced.


    "I¡¯m so happy you like the room, my son," Tristan said while ruffling Dax¡¯s hair lovingly. "¡ªAll right, you can look around..." he continued before approaching Bella, who was standing near the window with her back facing them.


    Tristan stood beside her, following her line of sight to the garden behind the house. When Bella looked up to see him, he turned to meet her eyes.


    Looking at her calm gaze made Tristan say in his hushed voice, "He didn¡¯t like this room, right?" The corners of his lips lifted, revealing a faint smile.


    Earlier, he could see the dislike in Dax¡¯s eyes, but he just pretended not to be aware of it.


    Bella was rendered speechless. She felt sorry for him and could only nod slightly in response.


    Tristan tugged his hand in his trouser pocket, sighed deeply, and turned his gaze back to the garden outside.


    After a few more seconds, Bella said, "I told you before, he is different from the children the same age as him."


    Bella follows his line of sight.


    "Hmm, I just remembered that. Well, at least I still have another surprise for him. I hope this time, he will not be disappointed."


    A smile slowly graced Tristan¡¯s face again. He had already thought about it, so he prepared a backup plan to make his son happy.


    Bella was surprised to hear his words. She turned to look at him in a hurry, "Another surprise?" she asked, puzzled.


    Tristan nodded with a mysterious smile gracing his handsome face. Bella narrowed her eyes at Tristan, suspicious about what he had prepared for Dax.


    Worry this man will disappointed again, she said, "Tell me before you give it to him. Afraid you will make a mistake again."


    However, Tristan shook his head and refused to tell her.


    Bella grew more suspicious. Before she could ask further, Dax approached her.


    "Mommy, is my bag still in your car?" Dax asked. He wanted to check his iPad and contact his gaming friend.


    "No, but it¡¯s in my room. Baby, wait a minute, let me get it for you..." Bella immediately left the room.


    Not long after, she reappeared carrying a black backpack and handed it to Dax.


    "Thank you, Mommy..." After receiving his bag, Dax went straight to the study table in the corner, pulling out his iPad.


    ....


    "What¡¯s that?" Tristan asked curiously, seeing his son looking enthusiastic about his backpack.


    "His laptop and iPad," Bella answered while glancing at Dax, who was busy behind his iPad.


    Then, Bella looked at Tristan. "I told you before, our son is different from other children his age... You still remember it, right?"


    "Yes. Can you tell me more about it?"


    Bella nodded, inviting Tristan to follow her to the two-seater sofa near the window.


    She began to explain after Tristan sat beside her.


    "When Dax turned one, he could speak with good articulation, although not yet perfect, and his vocabulary was still limited, but he spoke well. By age two, he could speak clearly and had a wide vocabulary; even Aunt Noora and I were amazed to hear him speak..."


    Tristan was stunned. He listened to Bella while his eyes never left Dax, who seemed immersed in his iPad, ignoring them.


    "When he was three... One day, I lent him my cell phone to watch a cartoon. However, I was shocked to learn that he didn¡¯t watch cartoons. Instead, he started to play a few games I had installed on my phone." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella shook her head, smiling as she remembered when she found out Dax could play a difficult game.


    "What game?" Tristan asked curiously.


    "Minesweeper and Chess. What shocked me was that he beat my best record, even though I never taught him how to play those games..."


    Tristan was shocked. He knew the game was challenging even for adults and required strategy to play.


    "Since then, I bought an iPad for him. With strict usage limits for children, of course..." Bella emphasized the strict limits for children to reassure him.


    He smiled at her.


    "I only installed a few games that could hone his cognitive skills. And every day, his abilities surprised me. He mastered all the games I installed for him in a short time. Last November, on his fourth birthday, I gave him a laptop. Since then, he has started to study a few things about coding. And I signed him up for online coding lessons..."


    Tristan was once again stunned to hear that. "He¡¯s interested in coding? Did he perform well in his coding lesson?" he asked.


    "Hahaha..." Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    She leaned closer to Tristan and whispered, "¡ªHe actually stopped taking online lessons, even though I had already paid for a year¡¯s package for him."


    He frowned, "Why? Wasn¡¯t he interested?"


    "He was interested, but he said his teacher taught him the material he could learn on his own. He got bored and didn¡¯t want to study there anymore. He downloaded all the materials and studied them. All by himself. He could master their one-year curriculum in an hour..."


    Tristan was even more amazed to hear that.


    "And he is just four years old..." Bella said, smiling proudly as she saw her son.

 Chapter 101: Another Suprised

    While Tristan and Bella talked about him, Dax opened the chat application on his game forum server.


    He saw that Bitter_Coffee sent him so many texts.


    [Bitter_Coffee] @X4D Bruh, are you online?


    [Bitter_Coffee] It looks like you are not yet online.


    [Bitter_Coffee] I want to let you know there¡¯s a suddent work.


    [Bitter_Coffee] I don¡¯t have time to play with you today until night, before dinner.


    [Bitter_Coffee] Oke @X4D, I will contact you later.


    [Bitter_Coffee] (Peace emoji)


    [Bitter_Coffee] (Cry emoji)


    Dax can¡¯t help but chuckle. How coincident.


    He also can¡¯t play with Bitter_Coffe because of this suddent meeting with his father and his great-grandpa joining them. He could predict he would spend his time with them until dinner.


    [X4D] Never mind, @Bitter_Coffee


    [X4D] I also have a sudden family matter. TTYL!


    Before Dax closes the chat group, another new message appears.


    [Snoring_Panda] @X4D, you can play with me. I¡¯m free today.


    [Snoring_Panda] My boss has a family matter, so, yeah... Let¡¯s play.


    A faint smile appeared on Dax¡¯s face as he looked at another of his stupid teammates. He couldn¡¯t believe that almost all of his gaming friends were too slow when playing simple games.


    [Snoring_Panda] Are you still there, @X4D?


    Dax types swiftly...


    [X4D] Nah, I have to go now, man. See you around!


    Dax had just closed the game chat when his father¡¯s voice was heard before him.


    "Have you finished playing the game?" Tristan asked.


    Dax looked up to see his towering father standing before him.


    He shook his head, "I¡¯m not playing the game, Dad. I just canceled my plan to play the game this noon." He said casually, but Tristan could see the disappointment from his gaze.


    Tristan felt guilty. He had heard from Bella that Dax was reluctant to come today because he had already promised to play with his friend.


    "I¡¯m sorry to hear that, son. Well, you can play with them later after we see another surprise for you..."


    Tristan smiled at him when he saw his eyes beaming in suprised.


    "Another surprise?" Dax couldn¡¯t believe his father was so generous, pampering him with many gifts. He likes it!


    "Yes," Tristan smiled. "Do you want to see the surprise now?"


    Dax immediately nodded. He got down from his chair and followed his father¡¯s walk toward the glass display cabinet of miniature Marvel superheroes.


    Even though Dax was confused about why his father was heading to that display cabinet, he still followed him without asking.


    Likewise, Bella followed them, curious to know Tristan¡¯s surprise for their son.


    Tristan stopped right before the Iron Man figure.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but shake her head. Why does this man insist on giving their son an action figure that Dax doesn¡¯t like?


    She took a deep sigh and walked toward Tristan. She gestures to Tristan for a quick chat. "You seem not to understand what we discussed earlier?" she whispers.


    "I understand. Don¡¯t worry. This time, our son must be happy," He smiled mysteriously at Bella before he touched the Iron Man¡ªArc reactor¡ªheart.


    Suddenly, a ¡¯click¡¯ sound was heard, followed by the display cabinet moving to the side, revealing a white door.


    Dax and Bella were shocked. They exchanged confused looks when they realized a room was behind the display cabinet.


    "Let¡¯s go!" Tristan said and walked toward the door. He opened it, revealing a spiral staircase leading downwards.


    Bella, who followed behind them, couldn¡¯t hold her curiosity. She asked, "What is it, Tristan?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer but glanced at her with the same mysterious smile. Then he continued to walk down.


    "Follow me. But, be careful with your step..." Tristan warned them.


    When they finally arrived, he said, "Alright, this is my other surprise for you, my son. I hope you like it¡ª"


    A room appeared before their eyes, shocking Bella and Dax. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The spacious room has sleek, minimalist d¨¦cor accented by pulsating LED lighting in various colors.


    At the heart of the room sits the Command Center, a custom-built desk housing a powerful gaming rig.


    The rig boasts the latest generation of GPUs, CPUs, and liquid cooling systems. Multiple monitors, including a massive ultra-wide display and secondary screens flanking it, provide an expansive field of view, perfect for multitasking or an immersive gaming experience.


    Surrounding the gaming setup is a state-of-the-art audio system. High-fidelity speakers are strategically positioned around the room.


    In one corner of the room stands a dedicated virtual reality station. It is equipped with the latest VR headsets and motion controllers.


    Looking at this room, Dax gasped in shock. He never imagined his father would create such a heaven for him.


    "Oh my god! Dad... I like it!" Dax held Tristan¡¯s hand while looking at the room he wished for, but all this time, his mother never fulfilled his wish ¡ª his computer and gaming room.


    How come his father knows about this!?


    "Really?" This time, Tristan understood how sincere Dax¡¯s words were. He could see the happiness in his son¡¯s gaze as he looked at him.


    "Yes, yes, Daddy. Thank you... Thank you... So much..." Dax said and threw himself to hug his father.


    Tristan¡¯s proud and happy smile appeared as he hugged his son back.


    After Dax released his embrace, Tristan led him into the room.


    "I will introduce you to my company¡¯s IT Director. He will teach you properly about coding..." Tristan explained, surprising Dax.


    Dax felt excited to hear that. This is what he wanted most: a good teacher who could guide him on how to code correctly. He had been learning online all this time but felt stuck with his skills.


    "Max, come here..." Tristan glanced at Max standing in the corner. Dax looked over, surprised to see a young man with brown hair, wearing a black hoodie, standing there.


    "Son, this is Maxwell. You can call him Max. He is very skilled in computer science. You can learn a lot from him." Tristan explained, and then he looked at Max. "Please, teach my son. He already has basic coding..."


    "Yes, boss. No worries, I¡¯ll take care of young master Dax," Max politely answered. Then, he turned to Dax and said, "Do you want to check your computer now?"


    "Hmm," Dax nodded excitedly and followed Max.

 Chapter 102: Her Concern

    With a satisfied and proud smile, Tristan looked for Bella. He saw her sitting on the sofa near the glass window on the other side of the room.


    Her eyes stared at him sharply, making Tristan confused.


    All kinds of questions now appeared in his mind, trying to guess why Bella¡¯s mood suddenly slid below freezing point.


    Why does she seem so upset?


    Is she jealous that I didn¡¯t give her a gift, too?


    Tristan immediately patted his forehead, realizing his mistake. Supposedly, he also prepared a special gift for her, right!?


    Sigh!


    He approached Bella and joined her, sitting on the sofa opposite her. He smiled gently at her, but she didn¡¯t flinch at all.


    "I know why you look at me like that, Bella. Well, for that, I will apologize to you... Forgive me." He said sincerely.


    This is the only way to make her less angry. Apologized.


    His mind is busy planning to ask Dylan for the right gift idea for Bella later. He had plenty of ideas but was afraid she didn¡¯t like them.


    While Tristan was lost in his own thoughts, Bella took a deep sigh inwardly.


    She is still shocked to know Tristan gave Dax such a complete and sophisticated computer room as a welcoming gift.


    A few months ago, she refused Dax¡¯s request because she worried her son was still too young to have a sophisticated computer room.


    Bella had planned to grant Dax¡¯s wish when he was older, but Tristan gave this computer room to their son without consulting her. This is annoying!


    "Come on, Bella... Can you smile? I already apologized," Tristan said when he saw Bella still looking at him, annoyed.


    "I promise I will choose the best gift for you. Don¡¯t be angry with me again, huh!?" He continues his words, trying to coax her.


    However, Tristan¡¯s words actually made Bella even more puzzled. She frowned, looking at him after hearing his words.


    ¡¯He wanted to choose a gift for me? Did I hear it wrong?¡¯ She narrowed, looking at him.


    Upon seeing him smile, Bella attempted to clarify his strange imagination, fearing it would lead to misunderstandings. Again!


    "What are you trying to say? Why do you want to buy me a gift?" Bella began to question whether Tristan had misunderstood her irritation.


    A frown appeared on Tristan¡¯s face, and for a while, he seemed to be thinking about why she was still annoyed.


    He looked her in the eyes, "Aren¡¯t you jealous that I gave Dax a present and you didn¡¯t?"


    Bella, "...."


    ¡¯Oh lord! This man¡¯s imagination was indeed weird. How could he think I¡¯m annoyed because of a trivial thing like a gift?¡¯


    Just looking at his face now really drowns her energy. She wanted to go home now and sleep.


    "Did I guess wrong?" Tristan asked again after seeing she didn¡¯t utter anything, but her eyes shot him a slap-in-the-face look.


    "YES!" She firmly answered him.


    Tristan was stunned.


    He straightened his seat, curious why she was angry at him. However, before Bella could answer, another thought crossed his mind.


    "Bella, did you perhaps get angry because I held your hand?" A faint smile slowly emerged from his lips while looking at her. "If so, please accept my apologies. I will never do that again if you ask me¡ª"


    "Tristan, can you stop guessing what¡¯s happening in my mind?" She can¡¯t stand speaking to him now.


    ¡¯Gosh, this man... Why does he have a new hobby to upset me!? Seriously, Tristan Sinclair?¡¯ Bella could only vent her frustration in her mind.


    Tristan opened his mouth to speak, but Bella raised her hand to stop him, "Don¡¯t try to cut my words. I¡¯m not finished yet!"


    Tristan shut his mouth and gestured to her to continue speaking.


    "Tristan, I will only speak now and never again," said Bella, ensuring he nodded before continuing. "If you want to give a gift like this to Dax, please communicate with me first."


    Tristan was surprised to hear her words. Now, he understood why she had been sulking at him since they arrived in this room.


    "Do you know I already plan to give him a computer room? I do have Tristan... but not now. He¡¯s still four years old and too young to have a gaming room."


    Bella paused for a moment to take a deep breath.


    "But now, you give him this room without consulting me. This makes me slightly worried. Tristan, if you want to do this again, please discuss it with me first?"


    Tristan nodded in response to her question. He could sense her worry, but he also needed to explain why he gave the gift to Dax.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t discuss this big thing with you. However, I hope you want to hear my explanation too..."


    She didn¡¯t utter anything but slight nods.


    "When I heard you say that our son likes playing games, he even has a laptop. I immediately planned to make this room for him. Because I thought it would be better if he had this room and someone would accompany him to explore his hobby rather than letting him play alone..."


    He continued, "And when you said earlier that our son was interested in learning computers since... I was happy because my idea matched his interests. And you saw the man with him, right?"


    Bella nodded while glancing at Dax and the man seated beside him.


    "He¡¯s a computer expert in programming, so he will teach Dax..." Tristan felt relieved when he saw her expression slowly change. She was no longer as annoyed as before.


    "So, are you still mad at me because of this?"


    Bella could understand Tristan¡¯s point of view and agreed with him; Tristan merely wanted to guide Dax towards the correct path, with the assistance of a professional who could help him explore his hobby and potential.


    "No. I should say thank you for this one," She returned his smile before continuing. "¡ªBut, Tristan, in the future, you must talk to me about everything related to Dax."


    The corners of his lips lift, revealing a warm smile before he responds, "Of course, Bella. I will remember that¡ª"


    S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 103: Back Together

    Bella nodded with satisfaction upon hearing his promise.


    When Bella wanted to excuse herself to leave the room, Tristan suddenly asked her.


    "I¡¯m curious to know... why did you name our child Dax?"


    It had been a few days since Tristan learned his son¡¯s name, Dax. He became curious as to why Bella gave him that name. It sounded unfamiliar compared to the names in their country, Astington.


    Did she have a particular reason to give Dax that name?


    ...


    Bella was silent for a moment. She felt something stir her heart as her mind reeled back to the past.


    That time, after she gave birth to Dax, the hospital staff asked her about her son¡¯s name.


    And for some unknown reason at that time, Tristan came to mind.


    ¡¯Gosh! This something I didn¡¯t want to talk about...¡¯ She silently vents her frustration in her mind while gazing at him in the eyes.


    "¡ªActually, I gave him that name because of you." A faint smile appeared on the corner of her lips.


    Tristan was shocked to hear that.


    "Because of me? H-How?" Tristan asked. He was puzzled because he had never had a connection with Dax or Daxton before. Even his name wasn¡¯t related to Dax.


    Bella took a deep sigh.


    She did not want to talk about this. Because it was really embarrassing to reveal that she loved this man so much, whatever he did at home left a deep impression on her.


    Even though she had tried to erase all those memories about him, they would still appear at certain times and torture her.


    After a long pause, she finally dared to tell him, "I don¡¯t know if you realized it, but during our marriage, I always heard you say... Max, in your conversations on the phone."


    She wanted to stop explaining, but looking at how shocked he was now, she continued her words,


    "Because of that, I decided to name our son a similar name to the one you always spoke with because that will make me remember you. So¡ª" her voice faded as she turned away from him.


    This was a foolish reason to name her son with that name. And now she confessed to him; she felt she wanted to vanish from his sight.


    Tristan was taken aback by Bella¡¯s reason for naming their son.


    He didn¡¯t know whether he should be sad or happy about the reason.


    On one hand, he was happy that Bella remembered him when she gave their son a name. However, on the other hand, he couldn¡¯t help but imagine Max every time he mentioned Dax¡¯s name.


    Sigh!


    Tristan turned his gaze to Max and Dax, who were now focused behind their computers. They both looked immersed in what they were doing.


    For the umpteenth time, Tristan took a deep breath.


    ¡¯Looks like I have to find a nickname for Max. He can¡¯t use Max again...¡¯ Tristan tries to remind himself. Then he turned his gaze again to Bella.


    Tristan¡¯s smile grew wider when he saw her blushing cheeks. He could feel she was embarrassed now because he knew her little secret ¡ª she still had feelings for him.


    After thinking for a moment, Tristan finally decided to express his feelings again.


    "Bella," Tristan softly called to her. When she turned to look at him, he gently smiled and said, "Please come back to me. Let¡¯s start our relationship again and raise Dax together..."


    She suppressed her anger upon hearing his words.


    ¡¯Damn! Why is he bringing up this matter again!?¡¯


    She already knew Tristan would never stop talking about this issue. And it seemed she had to tell him how she felt now.


    ...


    When Tristan saw she didn¡¯t utter anything, only looked at him, he continued, "This time, I will prove to you that I will not¡ª" his words trailed off when he saw Bella raise her hand, stopping him from speaking.


    "Tristan, please stop¡ª" Bella paused her words to inhale deeply, filling her stuffy chest while glancing at Dax, worried he would hear their conversation.


    However, when Bella saw Dax and Max using headphones, she felt relieved. She turned her gaze to Tristan again.


    "Tristan, why did you do this to me? You are the one who kicked me out of your family," she gritted her teeth, feeling her wounded heart starting to bleed again, talking about this matter.


    "I told you before I didn¡¯t want to return to your family. And, please, can you throw away your thoughts about us getting back together!? I will never return to you as your wife, Tristan Sinclair!"


    Tristan didn¡¯t expect Bella to reject him outright. And seeing how determined her gaze was now was enough to make him worry.


    He maintained his calm expression even though, inwardly, he felt like a nail had pierced his heart with every word Bella said. It hurt. But he could only endure it because he deserved it after what he did to Bella.


    "You must remember, I forgave you because of Dax, our son. Not because I wanted to return to you..."


    Bella sighed deeply while slowly closing her eyes, exhausted from speaking to him.


    "Bella, I¡¯m deeply sorry for hurting you in the past. I know I was terrible to you when we were still together, but I want to start anew with you..."


    Tristan could see Bella trying to suppress her anger, but he couldn¡¯t stop trying to persuade her.


    Bella opened her eyes and looked at him, conveying through her gaze that her heart had no room for him.


    "Did you forget what I said the day you sent your lawyer to me?"


    Tristan slowly frowned, trying to remember what happened that time. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let me remind you. I stated, ¡¯If someday you regret this decision and want me back, you won¡¯t get a chance, Tristan...¡¯"


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s hand clenched into a fist, and he felt mad at himself.


    Indeed, he remembered Bella saying those words to him. But he didn¡¯t have a choice. At that time, he had to make her leave to spare her from suffering because of his family.

 Chapter 104: Tristan’s Confession

    For a while, neither of them said anything.


    The two stared at each other as if they were communicating through their gazes.


    And whatever they were saying through their gazes was unpleasant because their stiff and dark expressions reflected that.


    After some time, finally, Bella broke the silence.


    "Now you remember, right?" She asked. Her cold eyes did not show mercy to him. She just wanted to draw a line between them, to awaken him from his delusion ¡ª she and he would never return together.


    "I do. I do remember." A calm voice escaped from Tristan¡¯s lips, causing Bella to feel relieved because this man finally understood.


    As she wanted to end this conversation, Tristan suddenly continued his sentence.


    "Do you want to know why I divorced you!?"


    Bella frowned, confused by his question. She was puzzled why he asked that again. Did he forget what he told her at the time? His reason is that she can¡¯t get pregnant.


    She looked into his eyes to understand what he meant, and then, something crossed her mind, ¡¯There is another reason?¡¯


    Slowly, curiosity emerged in Bella¡¯s mind, but a second later, she dismissed it.


    She took a deep sigh. Try to convince her mind that it¡¯s all in the past. There¡¯s no need to talk about it anymore.


    "No," Bella answered firmly.


    A faint smile appeared on his lips as he continued his words again, ignoring her refusal.


    "Bella, divorcing you, simply... I wanted you to be free from the suffering you endured because of my family, especially from my mother." He said with a serious tone but with sadness and sincerity.


    There was no longer a warm smile visible on Tristan¡¯s lips.


    "I know you fell in love with me, Bella. I am sure of that... and only by speaking harshly to you could I make you willing to sign the papers. Because if I didn¡¯t do that, you would force yourself to stay."


    Her eyes shook, staring back at him. "Can you stop talking about my stupid mistake, falling in love with you!?" she wanted to say that, but those words remained in her mind.


    Bella could only clench her fist, holding her emotions, hearing Tristan continue his words.


    "If I didn¡¯t do that, maybe my father and mother would still abuse you. They still torture you. I couldn¡¯t bear to see you suffer for too long, Bella. That¡¯s why when my mother offered me that opportunity, I agreed. It was the best choice for you at that time..."


    Bella, who previously didn¡¯t want to hear the reason, began feeling turmoil as if someone had just thrown a stone into her calm lake heart and created ripples when she listened to his confession.


    Though she opened her mouth several times, she could not find any words to reply to him.


    "I¡¯m truly sorry, Bella. I know... that I hurt you at that time. But that was the only way to make you leave¡ª"


    Tristan stopped his sentence when he felt his chest tighten. It was like someone had placed weights there. He lowered his gaze, looking elsewhere, hiding his sadness and pain.


    Once there was a little room to breathe, and Tristan felt more at ease, he turned to look at Bella again.


    A faint smile appeared on the corner of his lips before he continued his words,


    "And you know what? After you left me, I started to feel like my heart was empty, as if you took a piece of my heart with you." Tristan smiled warmly when he saw her eyes widen.


    "You appear in my mind every day. It¡¯s amusing because you never once crossed my mind when we were married without someone reminding me. But after you left, you came to me every day, every hour, every minute. As if you came to torture me, haunting me..."


    Tristan began telling her how he followed her to the airport but couldn¡¯t find her. He also mentioned how he searched for her everywhere in this country and elsewhere. Still, all traces of her disappeared as if a powerful force had erased her identity.


    He recounted how he finally saw her from afar when she returned and laid eyes on Dax. Eventually, he decided to conduct a DNA test to confirm his suspicions.


    Bella was utterly shocked to hear all of that. She never imagined that Tristan Sinclair, a man who had always been cold to her, would start to fall for her after she left.


    It was hard for her to believe him, but seeing how serious and sincere he was now, she felt confused. She didn¡¯t know how to react. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, Bella, I hope you won¡¯t reject me immediately. Please give me a second chance to get to know you better. Without our parents and grandfather interfering..."


    Tristan¡¯s voice slowly turned gentle as he pleaded for forgiveness and a second chance. "Please reconsider. This is for Dax, our son. I can¡¯t imagine Dax living without a father¡ª"


    Bella was truly confused by the situation. She didn¡¯t know why. Although she could try to think about it, she felt like she had lost her thinking ability.


    Silently, she took a deep breath before praying in her heart.


    ¡¯Dear God... Please help me. Please show me the path I should choose now. Because I feel completely lost.¡¯


    She wanted to forget Tristan Sinclair completely, to erase him from her life, but because of Dax, she could never do that.


    And for her, Dax was everything. She was willing to sacrifice everything, including her feelings for him.


    Now, she felt puzzled.


    She also couldn¡¯t make a promise to Tristan because she already did that to someone else, Sean.


    Her hands clenched tighter until her knuckles turned white, trying to hold back her emotions.


    After a few moments passed, Bella slowly turned her gaze again to Tristan. She was surprised when she saw Tristan¡¯s calm eyes now staring back at her.


    She wanted to say something, but for some reason, the sentence she had strung in her mind disappeared again.


    "I will prove to you that I am worthy to stand by your side, Bella."


    "T-Tristan, I can¡¯t say anything now. Let¡¯s talk about it later¡ª" She stood and left.

 Chapter 105: Worry About Dax’s Future

    Max still felt tired and needed some sleep. Yesterday, Geoffrey asked him to prepare this sophisticated, state-of-the-art computer and gaming room. Something that ordinary people would not be able to do in a short time.


    Fortunately, Sinclair owns a computer hardware company. He only needs to make a call and tell them what he needs.


    In a short time, they bring it to this place and install it in only a short time. However, he needed to test this room by himself. He only finished testing all the equipment in this room before sunrise.


    Max never understood why his boss needed this advanced computer and gaming room. Until this morning, when they met, he knew that this room was actually for his son, Dax.


    And the new information is enough to confuse Max because he knows their boss¡¯s son is only four years old.


    That little man, or any kids his age, as a matter of fact, didn¡¯t need this kind of room yet. That boy might end up destroying this admirable room.


    Young children that age are usually only interested in toys such as Lego, action figures, or any outdoor activity. Even if they are interested in computers, they would not know how to operate computers and electronic devices as sophisticated as the ones in this room.


    However, Max was impressed when he finally could test Dax¡¯s computer skills. What he found out was beyond his expectations.


    Max thought this little man, Dax, would only know how to play puzzles or games for toddlers. But the test shows he could play games for teenagers three or four times his age; he could even play Roblox and create his own private server.


    How could this four-year-old child already read and understand math problems?


    This little man was born to be a genius, and Max couldn¡¯t help but envy him.


    Max was even more shocked when Dax told him he also knew basic coding and understood Javascript*.


    He began to entertain the idea that Dax was not just a four-year-old child but a computer expert who transmigrated into this little boy¡¯s soul.


    Yes, he must be!


    How on earth could a toddler like him know Javascript?


    Max himself had only learned about it when he was in junior high school.


    Unbelievable!


    To gauge Dax¡¯s ability, Max tested him to see if he could decode the simple firewall on his old website, which he had created in middle school.


    Many problems were intentionally placed there, and this was a test for Dax to fix them.


    Max gave him a time limit to see how quickly Dax could identify and rectify the issues on the website.


    After a few minutes of waiting, Max was almost speechless with what he saw. He glanced at his watch and then back at the computer screen.


    ¡¯Crazy! This kid is a prodigy. How did he solve this so quickly?¡¯


    Max observed as Dax broke into the website firewall and fixed several problems within thirty minutes.


    Now, he was nervous about this child¡¯s future. Dax might veer down the wrong path if not properly guided early on. Dax didn¡¯t follow the basic rules he had learned in college; instead, this little man forged his own path to decode everything.


    What surprised Max even more was Dax¡¯s typing speed. Despite his chubby fingers, Dax¡¯s hands danced rapidly across the keyboard. Max estimated Dax¡¯s words per minute to be around 70-80 with just a glance. This was well beyond the average for a four-year-old.


    "Uncle Max, did I do it right?" His eyes sparkled with anticipation, awaiting Max¡¯s response. He needed to know if he had done well.


    Max swallowed hard.


    He only instructed Dax to fix the website and gave him a few guidance steps. Max hadn¡¯t disclosed that he was actually testing Dax¡¯s hacking ability to penetrate a simple firewall on the website.


    And, of course, the little genius had succeeded without needing assistance. He had found his own way to solve the problem.


    Max tried to conceal his astonishment behind a warm smile. "Yes, you did a great job, Dax. I¡¯m so proud of you," he said, ruffling Dax¡¯s soft hair.


    "Really? Thank you, uncle, for teaching me. Can we learn something else now? I¡¯m so excited!" Dax¡¯s eyes shone with eagerness as he looked up at Max. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Max silently gulped, captivated by Dax¡¯s innocent enthusiasm. He could see a blazing curiosity burning in Dax¡¯s eyes, urging him onward.


    "Little man, we¡¯ve been in this place for two hours. It¡¯s time for you to rest now... And I think we can¡¯t learn anything more until you master doing it faster."


    There was a hint of disappointment in Dax¡¯s eyes. However, his excitement arose again when he heard Max¡¯s last words.


    "Uncle Max, you mean I need to repair this website faster than before?" Dax asked, frowning.


    "Yes... Yes... Little man. Earlier, you finished it in 30 minutes. If you pass my test and can fix it in..." Max paused, pondering. He couldn¡¯t underestimate this little genius.


    After a few seconds, Max continued, "¡ªfive minutes... then we will move on to another project. Do you accept this challenge?"


    Max had to teach this little genius slowly for a while, or he risked losing his standing in the company. His boss might not rely on him as a hacker and computer expert but instead on his son.


    "Hmm... I will try, Uncle Max. I won¡¯t let you down." Dax nodded, turning his gaze to the computer screen before him.


    But before Dax could type anything, Max¡¯s hand stopped him.


    "Huh? Why did you stop me, Uncle Max?" He blinked several times, looking at Max, confused.


    "Little man, not now. We will learn later. Remember, too much exposure to monitor screens is not good for your eyes. Now, you can go talk to your Daddy..."


    Max pointed at Tristan, who was still sitting on the sofa without moving after Bella left the room an hour ago. He was curious to know whether his boss was sleeping there or not.


    Dax turned to see his father, surprised to find him still in the room with them. He thought his father had already gone to talk to the elders outside.


    After Dax exchanged a few words with Max to make a plan for their next learning session, he immediately approached his father.


    ***


    *Note: JavaScript is a scripting language that enables you to create dynamically updating content, control multimedia, animate images, and almost everything else.

 Chapter 106: Dax Is Not Your Son

    Dax was surprised to see Tristan with his eyes closed; it appeared as if he were asleep.


    "Daddy, are you sleeping?"


    Tristan was taken aback when he heard Dax¡¯s voice nearby. He turned to see his son, a smile tugging at his lips.


    "Have you finished playing with Uncle Max?" Tristan asked, gently holding Dax¡¯s hand, his eyes locked with his son¡¯s beaming gaze.


    "Yes. Uncle Max said I can¡¯t sit and look at the monitor for too long, so... we will rest now."


    "I see. What Uncle Max said is indeed true..." Tristan glanced at Max, still seated but looking in their direction. He gave him a slight nod, signaling him to take a break.


    "Where¡¯s mommy?"


    Tristan felt slightly suprised hearing Dax¡¯s question. He didn¡¯t know where Bella was at the moment; his mind was full of thoughts after she left the room.


    "It seems like mommy is in her room, resting," Tristan casually replied as he stood from his seat. "Would you like to go find her?"


    "Hmm, let¡¯s go, Dad¡ª" Dax said excitedly, eager to inform his mother about the lesson he had received from Uncle Max.


    They left the room hand in hand and made their way to the living room.


    They didn¡¯t find anyone in there, only Geoffrey. He informed them that Old Donovan and Sinclair had already left to return to their house.


    Tristan was left speechless hearing that. How could they come here without notice and leave without even meeting him first?


    "How about the young madam? Have you seen her?" Tristan asked, slightly worried that Bella would return to her house after their intense conversation.


    "Young madam, she is upstairs. Earlier, she said she was going to rest in her room."


    "Okay. Thank you, Goeffrey... You might take a rest. I will call you if I need anything," Tristan dismissed Geoffrey and ascended to the second floor with Dax.


    ...


    When Dax and Tristan reached the second floor, they found her in the lounge, sitting on the sofa, talking with someone on the phone.


    Bella immediately ended her call and stood from her seat. She gave an awkward smile at Tristan before turning to see Dax.


    "How¡¯s your lesson? Are you having fun learning with Uncle Max?"


    "Yes, mommy... Let¡¯s sit there." Dax said, pulled her mother up, and returned to the sofa.


    "Bella, you talk with Dax..." Tristan said when he saw them sitting. When their eyes lock on each other, he continues. "I need to check something. Will join you guys later..."


    Tristan needs to return to the first floor to find Max. He needed to know about Dax¡¯s progress.


    "Okay¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t say much because she still felt awkward talking to him.


    After Bella saw Tristan disappear downstairs, she looked at her son again with curious eyes, eager to know about his progress studying with Max.


    "So, tell me everything¡ª"


    "Mommy, you wouldn¡¯t believe it. Uncle Max is an expert in computers," Dax said, his eyes sparkling. "He¡¯s very skilled and teaches me in a way I can easily understand, unlike my online teacher. Now, I¡¯m declaring Uncle Max as my computer teacher..."


    "I¡¯m so happy you finally met your new teacher, baby..." Bella could only smile happily to hear him enthusiastically explain everything he had done with Max.


    After a while, Dax finished explaining, but suddenly, his expression turned slightly gloomy and worried.


    "Baby, why do you look worried?" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mmm... Mommy... I want to ask you something." Dax hesitated, fearing his mother¡¯s reaction.


    "What is it?"


    "Mom, can I come here daily to play and learn in my computer room?" Dax asked.


    Bella was slightly surprised.


    She had plans to bring Dax here only on the weekends. She couldn¡¯t visit Tristan¡¯s house daily; they were strangers now, not a couple as before.


    However, after observing Dax¡¯s expression, Bella noticed a significant difference from his usual demeanor. His eyes shone, and his smile was broader than ever when he spoke of learning the computers with Max.


    Not wanting to ruin her son¡¯s joyous moment, Bella decided not to object to anything he said.


    "Baby, even though I would like to let you come here every day, you know this is your father¡¯s house, not mine, right?"


    He nodded.


    "So, if you want to come here daily, you should ask your dad for permission..." That was the only answer she could give for now.


    While she couldn¡¯t stop Dax from coming here daily, she needed to talk to Tristan about the best way to meet their son¡¯s needs.


    Bella already had many plans for Dax to take private courses on weekdays.


    She intended to assign him a few classical music teachers and planned to get language and computer teachers.


    But it seemed her plans might change drastically. Because now, Tristan was involved in Dax¡¯s life.


    Even though they weren¡¯t husband and wife anymore, Bella wanted to co-parent Dax with Tristan. Her son needed a father figure, and she didn¡¯t want to replace him with someone else.


    "I¡¯ll talk to Daddy later," Dax said, yawning, his eyes teary and tired.


    "It looks like my baby needs to take his nap now. Let Mommy cuddle you..." Bella said as they walked to Dax¡¯s bedroom.


    ****


    Meanwhile, downstairs, Tristan sat with Max in the living room.


    "Tell me everything. How is my son¡¯s progress?" Tristan was curious to know.


    Max didn¡¯t hurry to explain; instead, he sighed deeply before speaking.


    "Boss looks like you¡¯re in trouble now¡ª" He chuckled when Tristan frowned.


    "Stop making me curious!" Tristan snapped.


    Max silently gulped.


    "Boss, I think... Young Master Dax isn¡¯t your son. I mean, not per se. As a four-year-old child, his computer capabilities are reaching expert levels. It almost seems unnatural, magic. And given the amazing things he could do with the computers, the only explanation I could come up with is that I think some computer genius¡¯s soul in the past has transmigrated into Dax¡¯s soul..."


    Tristan¡¯s expression froze.


    He gazed at Max as if he wanted to slap him on the back of his head. How dare he!?


    "Looks like someone just gave up their year-end bonus!?" Tristan said casually, but Max felt like a thunderbolt had struck his head.


    "S-sorry, boss. I was too shocked by young master Dax. He¡¯s born with your genius gene..." Max grinned. Then, he started to explain everything that had happened earlier to Tristan.

 Chapter 107: Feel Grateful

    After enjoying a warm dinner together, Bella bid farewell to return home.


    She had nothing left to discuss with Tristan regarding Dax¡¯s future.


    Earlier, they both agreed that Dax would visit Tristan¡¯s house four times a week. Dax is only allowed to use his computer room when Max or an adult is in the room to accompany and supervise him.


    They also agreed to provide additional activities for their son, such as learning music and martial arts. As the successor of the Sinclair Family, Dax must be trained from an early age to have good knowledge and physical power.


    At first, Bella objected, but she eventually agreed after hearing Tristan¡¯s reasoning that it was all for Dax¡¯s future and nothing else.


    Bella followed Tristan, who carried Dax in his arms. She couldn¡¯t believe her son had fallen asleep right before they were about to go home.


    She tries to wake him up, but Tristan stops her.


    "Tristan, please lay him in the back seat. It¡¯s fine if he¡¯s alone in the back..." Bella said while she opened the back door.


    However, Tristan didn¡¯t place Dax immediately; he turned to see Bella.


    "How about if you get in the back seat and hold him? I will drive you back¡ª"


    Bella was surprised. Why did he insist on driving them? Her house was less than a five-minute car ride away.


    "Give me the key. And please hurry," He said gently and very softly, but Bella could hear it, and his tone was like someone sincerely cared and begged to give comfort.


    So she had no choice but to give him the key and get into the car. After Tristan placed Dax¡¯s head in her lap, he immediately got behind the wheel.


    They drove silently as Bella was preoccupied with her thoughts about what Tristan had said earlier. He would continue to pursue her, whether she was interested or not.


    She felt as if her words were being ignored, exchanged for his persistence in pursuing her despite a clear warning that he was not in her future plans.


    This Tristan Shameless Sinclair wouldn¡¯t easily back down.


    ...


    The vehicle parked before the house¡¯s main entrance a few minutes later.


    Tristan immediately got out of the car and helped to carry Dax.


    At the same time, Noora appears behind the door to help Bella carry Dax ¡ª earlier, Bella texted her about it. However, she was shocked when Tristan stepped out of the car.


    This was the first time she had seen him in so many years, and somehow, she felt excited and nervous simultaneously.


    She walked toward the car and greeted Tristan politely.


    "S-Sir... Ma-Master Tristan..." Noora slowly bowed her head. She never dares to see him in the eyes, as this man is cold toward them when they still stay in his house.


    "Hello, it¡¯s been a while, Noora..." Tristan greeted her warmly. He felt grateful to this woman for caring for his family during their hard times.


    "Thank you so much for taking care of Bella and Dax for me," He continued. "¡ªWell, you know what, Noora? Thank you... it is not enough to express my gratitude to you..."


    Noora almost trips on her own feet when she hears that. This was the first time she had heard Tristan Sinclair speak to her more than a word. She couldn¡¯t help but question her eyes and ears when she saw Tristan Sinclair being kind and different from what she knew about him.


    Not only was Noora shocked, but Bella almost choked at his words.


    "Ma-Master Tr-Tristan..." Noora¡¯s voice slightly trembled, and she felt nervous about this cold master speaking to her. "¡ªThat¡¯s my duty to care for my young miss and young master. You don¡¯t have to worry about it," she said, lowering her head to smile silently.


    Tristan merely smiled and didn¡¯t utter anything. He glanced at Bella beside her, "Can you show the way to our son¡¯s room?"


    Noora blinked multiple times upon hearing the gentle and loving way Tristan spoke to Bella. It made her feel like they were still married.


    ¡¯Did I just dream that?!¡¯ Noora wondered as she pinched her cheeks. If she felt pain, she would swallow her tears. And she is indeed feeling pain. ¡¯Heaven!! This is weird... Why is this man completely different than the last time I met him?¡¯


    Noora glanced at Bella, curious to see her expression. When she saw Bella rolling her eyes while walking ahead, she couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly while following them from behind. At least her young miss is still in her right mind now.


    "S-Sir... I could carry young master Dax upstairs. Please give him to me..." Noora said. But Tristan refused. He continued to walk into the house. He felt his heart slightly tremble upon entering the house.


    This house was a gift Tristan had given his grandpa, but he never knew that his grandpa had given it to Isaac Donovan. As if God had already arranged everything, after so many years, Bella and Dax would live here.


    Tristan felt grateful because he had never sold his own house besides this house. Now, he had the opportunity to live closely with them.


    "M-Master Tristan... Youg master Dax is quite heavy; you¡¯ll get tired of climbing¡ª" Before Noora could finish her words, she heard Bella stop her.


    "Aunty Noora, it¡¯s okay. You can take a rest¡­" Bella knew Tristan would not let Noora take Dax now.


    "Yes, young miss," Noora excused herself.


    ...


    Bella led Tristan up to Dax¡¯s bedroom on the second floor. Dax had already cleaned himself before they returned from Tristan¡¯s house so he could go straight to bed.


    After placing Dax on the bed, they didn¡¯t stay in Dax¡¯s room for too long. He immediately got out and excused himself.


    Bella walked him to the entrance.


    "No need to walk me out, Bella. Go back inside." He smiled while looking at her standing at the entrance.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she only stood there staring at him. Something was bothering her now, but she felt reluctant to express it. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 108: Thank You, Tristan!

    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she only stood there staring at him. Something was bothering her now, but she felt reluctant to express it.


    When Tristan saw her still standing there, he waved his hand, then continued walking, heading to the main gate.


    "Good night, Bella..." Tristan said without looking at her. However, after a few steps, he heard Bella¡¯s voice calling him.


    "Tristan, please wait," Bella said while running after him. She stood only two steps away from him.


    "Yes?" Tristan was slightly confused, "What is it, Bella?"


    She looked up to see Tristan¡¯s confused face, her fingers clenching into fists as nervousness overtook her. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you," Bella said in her soft voice. Her eyelashes fluttered as she felt her eyes warm up. She didn¡¯t know how to express her feelings at the moment, but she was extremely grateful for being able to witness Dax¡¯s happiness throughout the day.


    Tristan frowned. Why did she suddenly say thank you? "For what?" he asked gently.


    "To make Dax feel happy. Today was the first time I saw him like that. Dax never expresses his feelings excessively, but when he¡¯s with you, he sees it to me... to us¡ª" she couldn¡¯t continue her words. She feels choked, holding her happy tears.


    The corner of Tristan¡¯s lips lifted into a faint smile as he heard her words. He wants to pull this woman into his arms and says near her ears, "It¡¯s okay, Dax is also my son. As his father, I am responsible for his happiness."


    However, he had already promised her that he would never physically touch her without her concerns.


    Tristan could only silently sigh while turning his gaze away from her.


    He tried to endure the pain in his heart, covering it with a gentle smile before saying, "Thank you, Bella, for allowing me to do my duty as Dax¡¯s father."


    Hearing the sincerity in his voice, she smiled warmly at him. When their eyes met, she felt a flutter in her heart as if the entire zoo was now partying in her stomach.


    She flinched.


    Her smile slowly faded. She can¡¯t give him hope!


    Bella cleared her throat softly before saying, "Tristan, I hope you don¡¯t try to chase me again because it would be in vain and a waste of your time. My stance is still the same ¡ª I can¡¯t return to being your wife." She said nothing more and slowly lowered her head.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to meet Tristan¡¯s gloomy gaze. She feels terrible for rejecting him. But she also can¡¯t return to him.


    A look of surprise flashed across Tristan¡¯s eyes, but in the end, he smiled.


    "Bella, please look at me..." Tristan called softly. When Bella finally glanced at him, he continued, "I know. I respect your decision. But please don¡¯t ask me to stop. And don¡¯t ever push me away from you."


    Bella hesitated to speak as she met his gaze.


    Seeing her speechless, he continued, "You don¡¯t have to do anything, Bella. Let me work on improving our relationship... I will make you believe I¡¯m different from the Tristan you knew in the past." He smiled. "Please trust me and give me a chance. I only need that from you. Alright, it¡¯s freezing out here.


    Go inside..."


    Tristan continued walking. Slowly, the smile that had graced his face disappeared, replaced by sadness and regret.


    His chest tightened with each step he took. He couldn¡¯t blame Bella; he deserved to be treated like this because he had hurt her many times in the past.


    He could only accept this reality and bear the pain. He hoped this pain would end. And the happy ending for him, Bella, and their son, Dax, will come soon.


    ....


    Bella didn¡¯t know how long she stood where she was, looking at Tristan¡¯s back away from her. She could feel his sadness when she saw him walk with his head hung low.


    Even after Tristan had disappeared from her view, Bella remained rooted to the spot.


    She paid no heed to the cold night wind that pierced her pores and chilled her bones.


    She simply didn¡¯t care.


    Right now, she felt numb.


    However, before long, the wounds she had buried deep in her heart began to reopen.


    She placed her hand on her chest, took a deep breath, and then exhaled.


    ¡¯God! What should I do? Why did you make him change so drastically? Why do I feel like he¡¯s better now than the person I loved in the past?¡¯


    Bella vented her unanswered questions to the heavens, though she knew she would never receive a reply.


    Her chest felt heavy, and her vision blurred as she struggled with her gloomy emotions.


    Desperately, she stared at the dark sky, willing the tears to return. She didn¡¯t want to cry over him anymore. She refused to do so.


    In this moment of helplessness, she needed to talk to someone, yet she had no one to rely on.


    She could only take another deep sigh.


    Before long,


    Bella felt her eyes betraying her as she struggled to hold back her tears. Slowly, tears began to fall, tracing down her cheeks as she cried silently.


    For the first time in years, she cried because of him.


    ****


    The next morning.


    Bella bid farewell to her grandfather and Dax as her driver, Samuel Brown, finally arrived.


    "Mommy, enjoy your first day at the office," Dax threw his chubby body into her arms, trying to cheer her up.


    Dax knew that today was the day his mother had been waiting for. After many years, Uncle Jack and Aunt Harper came to their cabin to persuade his mother to return to this country and take over their company management.


    "Thank you, baby," Bella pinched his chubby cheeks and then glanced at her grandpa. She told him about Dax¡¯s plans for the day.


    ****


    A few minutes after Bella¡¯s car left the house, a black Maybach slowly drove into the yard.


    "Boss, why did you want to come here this morning? Ms. Bella has already left the house..."


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer his driver but stepped out of the car.

 Chapter 109: Win Isaac Blessing

    Isaac and Tristan are sitting across from each other. However, no one started the conversation.


    Tristan was trying to string a few words to ask Isaac.


    While Isaac simply didn¡¯t want to speak to Tristan if it was unnecessary.


    Isaac waited for Tristan to speak, but minutes passed with no response. He began to feel impatient and glanced over at Tristan, who looked dashing in his black suit and appeared ready to head to work.


    He wondered once again why Tristan had come to meet him. This must be important; that¡¯s why he came. But Isaac wouldn¡¯t ask either.


    Isaac admired this young man; he was handsome and had the charisma to be a successful business leader. But it was unfortunate that this brat had never been in love with his granddaughter, Bella.


    If only Bella and Tristan hadn¡¯t divorced, Isaac would have died peacefully because Bella would have had Tristan, who would protect her. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How sad!


    Isaac felt conflicted as he shook his head slowly, trying to shake off his deep wish for Tristan and Bella to reconcile.


    He didn¡¯t want Bella to be unhappy again because she was with a man who didn¡¯t love her.


    After taking a deep breath, Isaac looked at Tristan again. "If you came here only to stare at me, you might go! I need my morning nap¡­" He pretended to stand up.


    "S-Sir¡­ please wait." Tristan panicked, looking at Isaac, who was about to leave. He stood up from his seat to stop him.


    A faint smile appears on Isaac¡¯s face. He adjusted his expression before turning to see him.


    With his calm but displeased gaze, Isaac looked Tristan in the eyes, "Are you coming here to meet me or to meet Dax?"


    "You. Sir, there¡¯s something I need to tell you," Tristan gestured to Isaac to sit down again.


    Isaac cleared his throat slightly before sitting back down.


    He gestured for Tristan to start talking; however, before Tristan could speak, he reminded him first.


    "Make it simple and faster... Though retired, I still have many agendas," Isaac said, gazing at the garden ¡ª he wanted to play chess with his great-grandson.


    Tristan could only swallow hard, seeing Isaac looking annoyed. He knew this conversation would never be easy for him.


    "Yes, sir..." Tristan said calmly. Even though inwardly he felt nervous, he had come here to tell him something that might flare up Isaac¡¯s anger this early in the morning.


    He can¡¯t delay to talk to him. His priority was to make Bella return to him.


    If he couldn¡¯t win Bella¡¯s heart now, he would first try to win over Bella¡¯s close people. His second target after his son was Isaac. After that, he would also ensure Noora was on his side.


    ¡¯Oh, Bella... you can¡¯t run from me, dear... I will make sure you return to me.¡¯ Tristan smiled inwardly.


    ...


    Tristan tells Isaac about his feelings for Bella and his plan to reunite with her.


    Isaac, who had been gazing outside, was shocked to hear that. He returned his gaze to Tristan.


    ¡¯This brat... Is he still drunk? Why does he suddenly want to remarry Bella? I clearly remember he is the one who divorced Bella in the past¡ª¡¯ Isaac was confused.


    He narrowed his eyes at Tristan, trying to see if he was sincere with his words. When he could see Tristan¡¯s sincerity through his gaze, it shocked him.


    ¡¯My God, he is indeed serious? So, what Lewis said is true!?¡¯ Isaac tried to maintain his calmness while listening to Tristan finish his words.


    "This is why I came here, sir... to ask for your blessing. This time, I promise to pursue your granddaughter not because you or my grandpa asked for it but because I sincerely love her..." Tristan said.


    Isaac suddenly feels his throat go dry, listening to Tristan¡¯s words.


    "I know this sounds absurd, but I mean every word I say," repeated Tristan, trying to convince Isaac, who didn¡¯t seem to believe him.


    "Wait... Wait..." Isaac finally managed to utter a word. He looked Tristan in the eyes before continuing. "Do you want her to become your wife again because of Dax?"


    Isaac can¡¯t allow that to happen if this is Tristan¡¯s reason. He could predict that in the future, Tristan will abandon Bella again.


    "No, sir." Tristan straightened his seat. He told him about his feelings after Bella left him.


    "As I said before, I fell in love with Bella after she left. At that time, I had already decided to make her return to me. And when she returned with Dax, my wish grew stronger. I didn¡¯t want my son to live without father by his side..."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t hide his emotion when talking about Dax. His eyes started to blur, but he held back his tears.


    Isaac was slightly stunned when he heard Tristan¡¯s last words. They shared the same concern. He knows Dax needs a father figure, and only this man can fulfill that.


    Now Isaac feels slightly wavering with Tristan. If he means his words, he has no reason to stop him. He even needs to help this brat make Bella like him again.


    After pondering for a while, something crossed Isaac¡¯s mind. However, just before Isaac wanted to say something, Tristan started talking again.


    "I must confess, sir, that if I use everything I have, I can make Bella return to me, even when it¡¯s against her will. However, I have no intention of doing so. My wish this time is to win her heart and make her mine. She is my son¡¯s mother and the woman who has captured my heart."


    Isaac¡¯s face turned dark, almost sending a powerful slap to Tristan¡¯s face out of shock hearing his words.


    "Brat!! Do you want to use Dax to force Bella to marry you again? How dare you!" Isaac pointed with his index finger, too mad hearing his words.


    Tristan¡¯s face turned pale. He was confused why Isaac suddently fumed.


    "No... No... Sir. That is absolutely not what I meant. You seem to have misunderstood," Tristan immediately clarified.

 Chapter 110: Cupid Alliance

    "Speak clearly! I¡¯m old now. I can¡¯t understand the layers of your words¡ª" Isaac cleared his throat, his intimidating gaze seemingly sharp enough to send shivers down Tristan¡¯s spine.


    "Sir, my legal status with Bella is still husband and wife. I never submitted our divorce papers to the court. If I want to ask her to return to me, I could¡ª"


    "W-WHAT!? YO-YOU..." Isaac couldn¡¯t continue his words. His heart felt stuffy. He placed his hand over his chest, trying to breathe normally, shocked by what he heard.


    Tristan worries when he sees Isaac¡¯s face turn red as if all his blood is rushing straight into his face.


    Afraid of triggering Isaac¡¯s blood pressure or causing a heart attack, Tristan is reluctant to continue this conversation.


    "Gr-Grandpa... S-Sir... Are you alright?" Tristan stood from his seat to help him. But he hears hurried steps from behind. He sees Nick, Isaac¡¯s butler, come in and carry a water tray.


    "Master, please drink this¡ª" Nick said politely while pouring water for him. Isaac immediately took a glass of water and drank it.


    After he feels better, Isaac glances at Nick and says, "Thank you. I¡¯m fine now... You might go back inside," He dismissed Nick. Then, he returned his gaze to Tristan and gestured for him to sit again.


    "You said your status with my granddaughter is still husband and wife? Legally?" Isaac asked again, worried he had heard wrong. This is big news and something they can¡¯t talk about lightly.


    "That¡¯s right. That¡¯s what I said," Tristan answered him earnestly.


    Isaac fell silent again as if he was pondering something.


    After a few more seconds, he looked at Tristan.


    "Does anyone else know about this?" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Just me and my lawyer... And now, you."


    "I see," Isaac began to understand why Tristan said he didn¡¯t want to force Bella to come back to him, even though he could because Bella¡¯s status was still his wife.


    Isaac took a deep breath. He never imagined this plot twist happening to his grandaughter¡¯s life.


    How could this brat have hidden this? Why didn¡¯t he tell him when they met a few years ago?


    ¡¯Sigh!!¡¯ Isaac silently took another deep breath, trying to fill the air in his chest.


    It is still hard for Isaac to believe that in the past, he scolded this brat and almost hit him for nothing. "So, you want¡ª"


    "Daddy¡ª"


    Isaac¡¯s sentence stopped when he heard Dax¡¯s voice. He immediately turned to look at him and was surprised to see his great-grandson¡¯s confused expression as he looked at his father.


    "D-Dax..." Tristan was surprised, too. "Come here," he asked his son to join them.


    Tristan felt curious. When had Dax been standing there? Did he hear their conversation?


    Before Tristan could ask, Dax stood before him.


    "Dad, are you serious about what you said?"


    Tristan was slightly surprised to hear his serious tone.


    "Yes. Like I¡¯ve told you before, I want to pursue your mother. And you already sided with me..." He smiled while patting the seat beside him. "Did my little man forget about that?"


    Dax shook his head.


    "No... Daddy... I didn¡¯t forget. I¡¯m trying to ask, ¡¯Are you seriously still legally married to Mommy?¡¯"


    When Dax learned that his father was visiting their house, he rushed to the living room only to stop and greet his father when he overheard their conversation.


    At first, he didn¡¯t understand, but when he asked Aunty Noora, he was surprised to learn that his parents were still legally married. How was that possible?


    Tristan concealed his surprise behind his smile as gently patted Dax¡¯s back.


    "My little man, so you heard it?"


    "Hmm... what do you mean, Daddy? I thought you and Mommy already divorced; why did you suddenly say you didn¡¯t submit your divorce papers to the court!?" Dax expressed his confusion.


    Tristan and Isaac, who heard Dax¡¯s question, were rendered speechless.


    How could a child this age understand such matters?


    Curious to know whether this little fellow understood what he said, Isaac asked, "Baby Dax, do you understand about a marriage annulment letter...?"


    Dax turned his gaze to Isaac, smiling before saying, "Gramps, of course, I know. Earlier, Aunty Noora was the one who explained it to me¡ª"


    Dax looked back to find Noora; when he saw her in the corner, he called for her to join them.


    Noora suddenly froze.


    ¡¯Oh Lord, young master... why did you drag me in this conversation?¡¯ She protested in her mind. However, despite her reluctance, she walked closer to the seating area and stood a few steps away.


    Before Noora could say anything, Isaac Donovan burst out laughing, surprising everyone in the room.


    "Hahaha, no need to feel afraid, Noora." Isaac could see Noora¡¯s face turn pale. "Come... come... join us. It¡¯s fine if you know; this is not a secret anymore."


    Isaac couldn¡¯t separate Noora from Bella and Dax¡¯s lives. They already considered Noora to be their closest family.


    "Old master," Noora reluctantly took a seat. She wasn¡¯t used to being around Tristan Sinclair, even though this man looked much different from the Tristan she knew in the past.


    "Aunty Noora, you can join us..." Tristan smiled gently at her when he noticed her glancing at him a few times as if worried he would do something terrible.


    Tristan had a goal to make Noora side with him to pursue Bella. He knew how significant Noora was in Bella¡¯s life. She was the number three person on his list ¡ª how to win Bella¡¯s heart.


    With Noora joining in his fight to win back Bella, Tristan again explained this matter to Dax and how he would fight to get Bella back.


    It made Isaac, Dax, and Noora feel sympathetic and finally agree to help him.


    ...


    In the end, Dax suddenly said, "Daddy, Gramps, I will create a special group chat only for us. Just us three. We will discuss our strategy again there... What do you think?" his eyes beaming as he looked at them.


    Tristan and the others were dumbfounded upon hearing Dax¡¯s brilliant idea.


    Thus, a new chat group was formed: CUPID ALLIANCE.

 Chapter 111: Shameless Man

    At The Quantum Capital Building.


    "Achooo..." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, Bella sneezed the moment she entered her office lobby.


    "Did you catch a cold?" Leo, who was waiting for her, was surprised by her sneeze.


    Bella slightly shook her head. "No. I¡¯m healthy... But, I guess someone gossiped about me." She smiled when she saw Leo chuckle.


    "How could you believe something like that?"


    "Geez... Looks like working too much, enough to make your humor leave you," Bella said as she walked away from the executive elevator.


    "Bella, did you forget the elevator? Why are you walking in that direction?" Leo asked, confused. But he still hurried to match her step.


    "I need coffee, alright!" Bella glanced at him as she headed to the famous franchise coffee shop in the corner, Moon Coffee.


    She felt blessed; there was a coffee shop in this building. She thanked whoever let this Moon coffee open in their building.


    "Oh my, you haven¡¯t changed? Are you still addicted to coffee?" Leo was surprised. He shook his head while following her to queue at the cashier to order their coffee.


    Before nine in the morning, Moon Coffee was surprisingly bustling, with a few customers occupying almost all ten tables.


    There were two people in front of them, buying coffee. They waited while chatting.


    "It¡¯s better to be addicted to coffee than addicted to alcohol, right?" Bella answered casually as she looked at her cell phone to check something important that she could read.


    However, her mood dropped slightly when she saw a series of texts from someone in New York.


    "Yeah, I agree with you!" Leo responded with a light chuckle.


    Bella ignored him; she was immersed in reading a series of texts sent by Jack.


    After a few more seconds, she looked up to see Leo, "Tsk... Tsk... I can¡¯t believe your ex-boss is spamming me with his text messages," she showed Leo her phone screen.


    Leo only needed to read a few texts and laughed, "Hahaha, he¡¯s so afraid you won¡¯t come today. Well... actually... He¡¯s the one who wakes me up in the morning. He calls me and makes sure to remind you."


    "What the hell does he want? Why does he insist on me taking care of this..." Before Bella could finish her words, someone made a noise from behind, attracting their attention.


    They turned to look back and saw a stout, towering man with a black oversized suit trying to break through the queue.


    "Excuse me, gentlemen, I need to order coffee quickly. Please, can you give me the priority?" He said with a kind tone, but his sharp, demanding gaze made everyone look at him with a get-lost kind of look.


    The stout, towering man stepped forward once more, repeating his plea.


    This time, a middle-aged, short-haired woman retorted sharply, "Do you think you¡¯re the only one in a hurry? Can¡¯t you see it¡¯s almost nine in the morning? We¡¯re all in a rush, dear. Get lost!" The elegant lady dismissed him with a wave of her hand, ignoring his presence entirely.


    Grinding his teeth in frustration, he refrained from further confrontation, wary of offending her again. He noted the woman¡¯s branded clothing, indicating her potential high status.


    Nevertheless, he persisted. He urgently needed to purchase coffee before facing Laura¡¯s wrath. Thus, he continued to move forward for someone willing to give him their spot.


    ...


    Leo couldn¡¯t tolerate the stout man¡¯s persistence any longer.


    Seeing his turn approaching, Leo observed as the stout man attempted to persuade the person behind him.


    Leaning closer to Bella, Leo whispered, "I can¡¯t believe there are shameless men like him in this country."


    "Such men are rare, but they exist not only here but all over the world," she replied, her gaze fixed on the woman who was now placing her coffee order at the cashier.


    Bella is also displeased to hear and see the man¡¯s impolite attitude. She couldn¡¯t wait to get her turn and left the coffee shop. Next time, she will ask Sam to buy a coffee for her, afraid she will encounter such a shameless man.


    "Haha, you¡¯re right¡­" Leo chuckled, dismissing the commotion behind him. When he saw Bella¡¯s turn approaching, he felt relieved. Soon, they will be out of this place.


    Glancing at Leo after she placed an order, Bella asked, "Should we offer him your spot? I can order for you and let him take your place!"


    Leo was taken aback. He leaned in again, "Boss, since when did you become so generous?"


    She smiled, "Maybe he¡¯s in a hurry because he needs to use the bathroom?"


    Just as Leo was about to respond to Bella, the man finally approached him.


    "Hello, handsome," he greeted politely. "I won¡¯t repeat myself since I¡¯m sure you heard me before, right?" He grinned.


    "So?" Leo replied with a deadpan expression.


    "If you give me your spot, I¡¯ll give you a gift," the man said mysteriously.


    Suddenly, Leo felt a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu. He remembered hearing this kind of sentence before. After a few seconds, he finally recalled what had happened at the Sushi Tei restaurant.


    Leo couldn¡¯t help but feel a shiver down his spine.


    Seeing that the handsome man in front of him didn¡¯t respond, the man continued whispering, "Handsome man, I¡¯m the manager of Laura Kiels." He glanced around, wary of others overhearing.


    "Yeah... That movie star, supermodel... You must know her, right." He continued when he saw the handsome man¡¯s suprised gaze.


    Leo, "...."


    "My client needs coffee urgently because we have to head to the next destination. If you give me your spot, I¡¯ll give you her photo with her signature," the man proudly stated, awaiting the handsome man¡¯s answer.


    ¡¯What the heck! Why do I keep running into Laura Kiels?¡¯ Leo couldn¡¯t believe his luck was this terrible.


    "Handsome man, please..." The man persisted with a pitiful gaze, but Leo, feeling nauseated, ignored him and leaned closer to Bella.


    "What do you think? Should I give in?"


    Bella didn¡¯t respond.


    Leo chuckled, knowing Bella must have heard Laura¡¯s name but was pretending not to care. She must be pissed off, too.


    "Sorry, my friend didn¡¯t agree, so..." Leo shrugged.


    Laura¡¯s manager was left speechless. He couldn¡¯t believe someone refusing an autograph from Laura Kiels.

 Chapter 112: Curious About Her Identity

    "Sorry, my friend didn¡¯t agree, so..." Leo shrugged.


    Laura¡¯s manager was left speechless. He couldn¡¯t believe someone refusing an autograph from Laura Kiels.


    Previously, he refrained from mentioning Laura¡¯s name when approaching people, fearing someone might take a video or picture and share it on social media.


    However, after struggling to convince a few individuals, all in vain, he felt he had no other option.


    Upon observing these two, who appeared to be ordinary employees and relatively young, he dared to offer them Laura¡¯s signature.


    Nevertheless, he hadn¡¯t anticipated their refusal as well.


    "You seriously didn¡¯t recognize my talent? Fine! You¡¯ll regret your decision, man... If someday we meet again and you ask, I won¡¯t give you!"


    The manager looks at the handsome man sharply before turning to the woman ahead.


    When the manager noticed the woman ordering the same coffee that Laura usually drank, a brilliant idea immediately dawned on him.


    The manager cleared his throat while smiling warmly at the woman.


    "Miss... Hello... Wow! You look so pretty, dear!" The manager greeted Bella cheerfully. Looking at Bella¡¯s striking features, including her flawless face and sharp gray eyes, he was shocked.


    He couldn¡¯t help but think that this woman had the potential to be a movie star.


    ¡¯Should I recruit her to enter Stellar Entertainment?¡¯


    An idea to recruit her popped up in his mind. However, a second later, he dismissed the idea. There¡¯s an urgent matter he needs to take care of.


    He continued, "Miss, I will pay triple the normal price for your coffee..." His tone sounded urgent, but he didn¡¯t cease to smile at her.


    However, Bella only stared at him without expression. He continued again to convince her, "How about four times? No!? Alright... This is my final offer, five times... take it or leave it!"


    Leo was rendered speechless, hearing this foolish manager¡¯s words. How dare he challenge Bella¡¯s calmness?


    Bella narrowed her eyes at the manager, looking at him from head to toe as if she was starting to remember his face to take revenge.


    After a few seconds, she didn¡¯t utter anything but glanced at Leo and gestured to him to take their coffee. Then she walked away, leaving the manager looking at her in annoyance.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why did she leave just like that? Did she agree or not?¡¯ he mumbled under his breath.


    "Miss, wait? How about our deal..." He asked, still trying to be polite while following Bella even though his patience was now as thin as paper.


    "Forget it!" Bella said coldly without looking back.


    The manager was even more annoyed, and his hot temper arose as if someone was boiling water in his heart.


    "Seriously... Who are you? Why are you so arrogant?" The manager shouted.


    He was really pissed off that someone was threatening him cruelly like this, ignoring him. It was the first time someone ignored him even after he confessed he was actually Laura Kiel¡¯s manager.


    The coffee shop wasn¡¯t too big so all visitors could hear the manager¡¯s conversation with Bella.


    They were all surprised to hear the annoying fat man raise his voice as if he had just scolded someone.


    Everyone now looked at him with their disdainful gaze. Then they turned to look at Bella and saw her stop before she reached the door.


    Instantly, a little chatter could be heard among the coffee shop visitors.


    "Wah, look... Look, that woman was about to piss off now."


    "That fat man is really annoying. How could he threaten all people like his lowly peasant?"


    "I know, right? I would scold him back if I were in that woman¡¯s position!"


    All eyes now look at Bella, and before long, someone was taken aback looking at her beauty.


    "You know what? This was the first time I saw that woman in this building. And she looks beautiful..." Someone whispered to her friends.


    "Me too..."


    They couldn¡¯t tear their eyes away from Bella; they looked at her long, wavy black hair hanging down her back. And checked her simple outfit; she wore a black turtleneck and knee-length skirt. A long gray suit hung on her arm, and her bag was hiding under her long suit.


    Suddently, they were shocked, looking closely at her bag.


    "Oh my god, who is she? This is the first time I saw an employee bring that H brand to the office..." She whispered to her friends.


    "Maybe she is not an employee but a guest?"


    "Wah, she is so rich... But low profile, look at her shoes. She only wears sneakers."


    "Wait, maybe the bag was fake. That¡¯s why she hid it?"


    "Yes, we can buy H brand bags at Snake Market; they all look like originals."


    .


    .


    Bella chuckled, hearing all the chatter. Even though they spoke softly, she could still listen to them.


    ¡¯Gosh, when I don¡¯t want to be exposed, they all challenge my patience!?¡¯ She adjusted her emotions before turning to face this arrogant manager.


    "You want to know my name?"


    "Yes!" he shouted, annoyed.


    The manager had a plan to teach this woman. He would ask Laura to speak to a higher-up and fire this woman. How dare she not spare anything for Laura Kiels? Even though he had already stated, he would pay five times the average price for her coffee.


    A faint smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips before she said, "I¡¯m God!"


    Hearing Bella¡¯s answer caused Leo to almost spit out the coffee he had just drunk. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Puff..."


    Not only was Leo surprised, but Laura Kiels¡¯ manager was utterly shocked, too.


    He couldn¡¯t believe this woman, shameless enough to call herself God.


    This woman was bizarre. How could she randomly say her name was God? He would believe her if she told him she was Goddess.


    But God?


    Seriously!?


    "Are you kidding, right?"


    "No."


    "The fuck!" The manager couldn¡¯t hold his curses. "Oops... Sorry... Well... Can you tell me your last name?" he continued, trying to believe some crazy parents gave their child a weird name, like God.


    "I don¡¯t have a last name. My name is only God..." Bella said while holding her laugh inwardly. She immediately left without giving the man a chance to speak.


    "...."

 Chapter 113: Dealing With Stellar Entertainment

    The Manager was really pissed off. He couldn¡¯t help but curse, "What a bitch!"


    He kept staring at Bella¡¯s back, trying to figure out her real name. He still couldn¡¯t believe her name, God. Impossible! The woman just wanted to prank him, right!?


    After a few seconds lost in his thoughts, something crossed his mind.


    ¡¯Damn it! How could I forget? CCTV...¡¯


    He needed to call the head of security and ask him to check the woman¡¯s identity.


    ¡¯Woman... Fake God... You wait; I will teach you!¡¯ The Manager made a vow in his mind.


    He felt grateful to know the head of security in this building because they always helped them deal with Laura¡¯s fans who came to this place.


    A smile graced his face as he took out his cell phone to make a call.


    However, before he dialed the head of security¡¯s number, he stopped when someone put an arm around his shoulder.


    He turned to look, only to find God¡¯s handsome friend smiling at him, carrying two coffees.


    "You surprised me... what do you want?" The Manager asked curtly. He still carried away with his annoyance for this man and his friend.


    Leo blessed the Manager with his warm smile before saying, "Man... I can¡¯t believe you offended God early in the morning," he shook his head as if trying to convey his grief for this man.


    He knew for sure that Bella would not stay still just to let this man go. Not that quickly and easily.


    The Manager almost choked when hearing Leo¡¯s words.


    "Fuck! So, is she serious!?" His eyes widened in shock. "¡ªHer... Her... name is God? Really?"


    Leo didn¡¯t answer him but maintained his half-kind smile.


    The Manager took a deep sigh, looking Leo in the eyes. He felt impatient talking to this man. "Alright, handsome... I will not trouble you if you give me her real name. I will spare you from trouble. Hurry up...


    tell me her real name!"


    "Tsk...tsk... You still do not believe her!? Fine! Just wait and see what God could do to you..." Leo said and patted the man¡¯s shoulder before he walked away.


    The Manager frowned. It was still hard for him to believe someone was using that name.


    "Hey, wait..." The Manager ran after Leo. "Please tell me which company you guys work for!?" He couldn¡¯t let this opportunity slip away.


    He wanted to know their company¡¯s name. If they were Stellar Entertainment employees, then, sorry, he would make sure they would be fired!


    Leo halted his step and turned to see the Manager, who now stood two steps away from him.


    "Man, let me give you a suggestion..." Leo calmly said, but inwardly, he held his annoyance. "You better start looking for a new job in another country... No... No... But in third-world countries."


    The Manager opened his mouth to say something, but Leo stopped him.


    "You want to know why you can¡¯t work in this country? I guarantee you will never get any job offer after being fired from Stellar Entertainment because you just offended God." He chuckled when he saw the Manager¡¯s face turn pale.


    Leo drew closed his head to whisper to the Manager, "And... next time, please make sure you never cause your company to look terrible by having shameless employees like you!"


    Suddenly, the Manager¡¯s knees turned to jelly after hearing that handsome man¡¯s warning. He felt what that man said just now sounded like a real threat. He stood in his place while looking at him, heading to the woman who claimed her name was God.


    When he saw them enter the executive elevator, his face immediately turned paler, as if all the blood beneath his facial skin was betraying him.


    ¡¯FUCK! I did offend God!¡¯ The Manager cursed while forcing himself to walk toward his car ¡ª completely forgetting about Laura¡¯s coffee.


    His heart tightened to realize something.


    That executive elevator was restricted for anyone, including Laura Kiel, the COO and CFO of their mother company, Quantum Capital, who couldn¡¯t use it. It meant they both worked for the company¡¯s CEO or owner.


    ****


    Bella took a deep breath, seeing Leo finally approaching. She accepted her coffee latte and entered the elevator before giving a displeased gaze to him.


    "Why are you wasting your time talking to a shameless man like him?" She said before taking a sip of her still-warm coffee.


    "Hahaha, I¡¯m just enjoying the fun..." Leo glanced at her.


    He could see her expression; she was not as annoyed as before, but from the calm look in her eyes, he knew what was going on in her mind ¡ª she was making a plan. And he felt curious to know her plan.


    "Okay, boss... now tell me what you want to do to the shameless manager?" Leo asked while gesturing for Bella to step out when their elevator reached the 19th floor.


    Bella glanced at him with a soft chuckle that escaped her lips.


    "Well, of course, I will not deal with him. But with his boss..."


    "Ah, so you want to meet Laura Kiels? Are you sure you want to meet her?"


    Leo was doubtful Bella could hold her cool when facing that woman. He already knew about Laura Kiels. She was Tristan Sinclair¡¯s woman ¡ª the gossip news indicated like that.


    "Oh, please, Mr. Smith... I never deal with employees. You know that, right!? I need you to call Stellar Entertainment¡¯s CEO and our legal team. This time for me to close down this entertainment division that only burns money for the company..."


    Leo¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    "Y-You... have to tell Jack, Bella. You can¡¯t just close down this company," Leo said in a hurry.


    He didn¡¯t expect Bella to close one of Jack¡¯s favorite companies on her first day joining the management team.


    ¡¯Is she taking revenge on Jack? That¡¯s why she did this?¡¯ Leo wondered.


    Bella completely ignored Leo¡¯s words.


    She continued walking towards her office room.


    On her way, she spotted a few staff working on that floor and saw Samuel Brown, her personal assistant, already busy at his desk in front of her office.


    She stopped right before Sam¡¯s desk. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 114: Finally, Sean Called

    On her way, she spotted a few staff working on that floor and saw Samuel Brown, her personal assistant, already busy at his desk in front of her office.


    She stopped before Sam¡¯s desk, making Leo almost hit her back.


    "Oops, sorry, Boss..." Leo said while taking two steps back from her. Bella only gave him a slight nod and turned to see Samuel again.


    "Sam, follow me inside. There¡¯s something I need you to do..." She said and then turned to Leo.


    "And, Leo... Could you bring me everything about Stellar Entertainment? The report you gave me is not detailed enough. I want all reports, starting from when the company was established here. And, please... don¡¯t tell Jack about this yet!


    I will call him later."


    After that, Bella immediately entered her office room. But Leo stopped her again.


    "Boss, how about the CEO of Stellar and the legal team!? You need them now?"


    Bella stopped walking and turned to see Leo. She pondered for a while before shaking her head.


    "No. I must read your report, so you better complete the task quickly. I will let you know when I want to meet them..."


    "Alright, Boss. I will make this matter a priority," Leo smiled and left, heading to his office.


    ...


    After Bella sat in her chair, she didn¡¯t immediately turn on the desktop computer. Instead, she looked at Sam standing in front of her desk.


    "Sam, do you have any investigative experience?" When Bella saw him slightly confused, she immediately clarified her words. "I mean, finding out someone¡¯s identity, tailing, and spying. Well, something like that..."


    "I do, Boss. That¡¯s what I did when I was still active in the military, undercover missions..." Sam, slightly smiling, reminisced about his time in the military.


    If only he hadn¡¯t been injured at that time, perhaps now his rank in the military would be high because he was a member of one of the special forces in this country.


    Bella smiled happily, hearing Sam¡¯s confirmation. She really needed his talent now.


    "I need your help to spy and investigate someone. Can you do it without resources and a team? Well, later, you can hire someone... I don¡¯t mind."


    "Yes, I can," Sam said confidently. "Who is the person you want me to investigate!?"


    Bella immediately gave Sam several names. Hearing all the names shocked Sam.


    Sam couldn¡¯t help but clarify, "Boss, so you want me to spy on the head of building security and some of the Executives in this building?" He was surprised to get this assignment on his first day of work.


    "Yes. I need to check what they do daily, who they meet, etc..." Bella said. She needed other reports about those people before she could crush them all.


    Bella couldn¡¯t keep people who would stab her in the back. From the initial report she read, she could already see how deep the corruption was in this company.


    Everyone was involved, which made her uneasy to work with them. She needed to remove them before she could make Quantum Capital achieve the targets that Jack set for her.


    "I¡¯ll try, boss," Sam said firmly.


    "Perfect!" Bella took out a card from her wallet and offered it to Sam. That¡¯s actually a card that Jack gave her before she returned to this country.


    "Take it. You can keep this company card. You can buy whatever you need. And you can also hire people who can help you."


    "Understand, Boss. I will work for it now..."


    After Bella dismissed Sam, she started to check her work.


    ...


    After several minutes, Bella was immersed in her work when her cell phone rang.


    She casually glanced at it, reluctant to pick up if the call was from Jack.


    However, she was stunned when she saw no number on the cell phone screen.


    "Spam!? How could my spam filter not work to block this unknown call?" She muttered.


    Her gaze was still fixed on the phone screen while trying to debate with herself whether to pick up or not.


    Before the ringing ended, Sean¡¯s face suddenly flashed in her mind. She remembered Sean telling her about this; he might call without a number.


    Without a doubt, she immediately picked up.


    "H-Hello?" Bella greeted him quickly. She was worried Sean would end his call. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There was a sigh of relief on the other end, followed by Sean¡¯s soft voice, "You finally picked up, Bella. Sorry if I called at the wrong time?"


    "No... Of course not. I was worried about answering your call because no number appeared, so I hesitated to answer it. But then I remembered you mentioned an unknown number caller..."


    Finally, Sean was able to call her. She really needed to hear his voice after that shameless Tristan Sinclair tried to waver her so many times.


    Sean chuckled, "Well, sorry... to make a call from this unknown and secure phone. This is the only way to contact you, and I can¡¯t speak over the phone for long." He took a deep sigh.


    "Thank you for making the effort, Sean. I appreciate it..." She stood from her seat and looked at the scenery outside, feeling good after the unpleasant drama in the morning.


    "Ugh! I miss you so much, Bella. I hope I can fly back there and meet you and Dax." Sean cleared his throat after saying those words.


    When he didn¡¯t hear any response from her.


    He continued, "How¡¯s your condition and Dax¡¯s offer there? Everything alright?"


    A smile flashed across Bella¡¯s face, hearing his sweet words. But, somehow, she didn¡¯t respond to it.


    Bella started telling him about their condition; she moved to the capital and finally lived with her grandfather.


    She also told him today was her first day working in her office.


    However, Bella didn¡¯t tell him about her encounter with Tristan. She worried Sean would stress and cause discord to his mission.


    "I¡¯m glad you are doing alright there. And I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t help you during your transition to the new city, Bella." Another deep sigh could be heard from the other end.


    It made Bella feel sorry for him.

 Chapter 115: Weird Feeling

    "It¡¯s okay, Sean. Don¡¯t worry about me. Just concentrate on your mission," she said, smiling as if Sean was standing before her. "By the way, I went to Sushi Tei a few days ago."


    Bella tries to divert the conversation. She refused to let this happy phone call turn gloomy.


    "Oh, really!?" Sean¡¯s excited tone could be heard, causing Bella to feel relieved.


    "Yes... my office building is close to a Sushi Tei restaurant, so maybe I¡¯ll go there often."


    "Sounds great, Bells. Well, I¡¯ll get someone to send you my access card. So you can visit my family¡¯s restaurants and hotels without making an appointment, and you won¡¯t have to queue or pay anything either."


    Bella¡¯s smile slowly faded when she heard his sentence. ¡¯Huh!? Why did this conversation change direction!?¡¯


    She quickly rejected it.


    How could she accept such a thing from him?


    If Sean¡¯s family finds out, they might label her a gold digger because she¡¯s already receiving benefits from him, even though their relationship isn¡¯t serious yet.


    "Please don¡¯t do that, Sean. I cannot accept it!" Bella refused again after Sean continued to press her to accept.


    She started to feel frustrated and regretted bringing up this matter.


    "Alright, I understand..." Sean smiles when Bella¡¯s expression flashes in his mind. For now, he stopped to discuss the matter but would still send her something.


    Silence hung in the air as Bella and Sean remained mute, each waiting for the other to start a conversation.


    Before long,


    Bella chuckled softly and asked, "Are you alright there? I mean... everything under control?"


    "Yeah, everything is fine. But, I still can¡¯t predict when this mission will end..." There was a hint of frustration in his tone.


    Bella¡¯s eyes showed a hint of disappointment after hearing his words. But that was only a moment, quickly replaced by a faint smile on the corners of her lips.


    "Please take care of yourself, Sean," she said in concern.


    "Sure, I will. I have to return to you and Dax..." He laughed, and Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh with him.


    However, a woman¡¯s voice was heard on the other end before Bella could respond.


    "Sean, our dinner ready. I cooked your favori¡ª" the gentle voice suddently paused.


    For a slight second, silence hung in the air.


    "I¡¯m on the phone. Will end this soon... please wait." Even though Sean¡¯s voice sounded like a whisper, Bella still heard it faintly.


    Bella suddenly felt like her heart tightened, hearing a female voice sound so intimate to Sean. Without realizing it, her hand slowly clenched into tight fists.


    It felt like she just wanted to end the call. She felt awkward in this situation.


    "Bells..."


    Silent!


    "Hello... Are you still there? Hello Bells... Bella..." Sean¡¯s confused voice came from the other end. "Huh!? Is the satellite signal being disrupted again!?"


    Bella cleared her throat faintly before responding to him, "I¡¯m here..." She swallowed, hurt as she felt her throat dry.


    "Oh, thank God. I thought the satellite was down again. Bells, sorry, I have to go now. I will call you later if I have time."


    A forced smile graces her face, but she tries to answer him as calmly as possible, "Sure, no problem..."


    "Love you, Bells..." Sean¡¯s words stunned Bella.


    Though she opened her mouth a couple of times, she could not find any words to reply to him.


    "And, please send my warm hug to Dax." He continues.


    "Sure, I will..."


    Beep!


    Bella didn¡¯t move from her place even though Sean¡¯s phone call ended. She stood there, looking down at the busy street below, with her mind filled with countless questions starting to torment her calmness.


    Later,


    Her expression slowly changed; at first, it was shocking, then quickly changed to sadness.


    Why does a female cook for him?


    Did they share the same house?


    If that woman was his colleague, why did she call him by name? Sean was their General.


    Who is that woman?


    Many questions now pop up in her mind, distracting her completely.


    ...


    To immerse herself in thinking about the woman who cooked for Sean, Bella didn¡¯t hear a knock on the door.


    She wasn¡¯t even aware Leo was forced to open the door, and now he stood behind her worriedly.


    "Bella, are you okay? Why didn¡¯t you answer me...?" he asked again while standing by her side. He was shocked to see her dark expression.


    ¡¯Did someone offend her again?¡¯ Leo is even more worried. Afraid Laura Kiels or her manager makes her angry. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Bella was still lost in her own thoughts, unaware that Leo was now standing by her side.


    "Bella!!" Leo shouted again after she still did not heed him. "What the¡ª" Before he could finish his words, Bella turned to see him in shock.


    "Damn, Leo!" Bella was utterly suprised when she saw Leo. "Why didn¡¯t you knock before entering my office?"


    Leo, "...."


    "Have you finished your report?" Bella asked while walking to the seating area and gesturing to Leo to sit opposite her.


    Leo didn¡¯t rush to answer. He casually folded the sleeves of his slim white shirt to his elbows before sitting comfortably on the sofa. His eyes looked at her, curious to see how she felt.


    But he was shocked as soon as his eyes met Bella¡¯s sharp gaze, who looked annoyed at him.


    He gulped.


    "No. Not yet," Leo replied, not wanting to make her even more annoyed.


    "Not yet!? So why are you here?" Her voice turns displeased.


    "Tsk, Tsk, so it¡¯s true that something was bothering you now!? I talk to you, but your mind is completely not in this place..." Leo chuckled when he saw her frown.


    "What do you mean?" Bella was confused.


    "My dear Boss... I have called you many times, and I feel ignored. You stand near the glass wall, looking at the street with an empty expression." Leo shook his head before continuing his words. "Who is the idiot that made you lose focus right now?"


    Bella slightly shrugs.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that thinking about Sean could distract her mind so much and so apparent.

 Chapter 116: Stefan Petrovic

    "Stop wasting your time, Leo..." she spoke gently, but her gaze seemed to want to whack Leo in the head. Why did he look slackened when she tried to settle this matter faster?


    She continued her words before Leo could say anything. "Can you please prepare the document? I will not sleep peacefully knowing these fools continue to burn our company¡¯s money."


    Bella let out a soft sigh before she turned her gaze outside.


    Leo chuckled when he saw her seeming impatient.


    "Oh, come on, boss. Relax. It¡¯s lunchtime now. Do you want to go to Sushi Tei again?" Leo asked.


    He was reluctant to visit that place, afraid they would meet other shameless people again.


    "Lunchtime!?" Bella was surprised when she saw her watch; it was indeed past lunchtime by a few minutes. "Gosh! Why does time fly so fast? I feel like I just worked a few minutes ago," she glanced at Leo.


    Leo was rendered speechless. He said nothing but only gave her a ¡ª Why are you asking me? ¡ª kind of look.


    "Can you ask someone to prepare my lunch? I still have a lot of work."


    "Alright, I will ask someone to prepare it," he said, quickly calling his secretary.


    After he ended the call, he looked at Bella again, "Boss, about the document you asked me for, you know why I can¡¯t assign a random person to do that, right?"


    Bella slightly nodded.


    "Unfortunately, our Hacker seems busy today. So, we need a little bit of patience to ask him." He explained.


    Leo wanted to call their Hacker directly but didn¡¯t know his contact information¡ªJack, with whom he usually corresponded. Because this was a secret mission, he didn¡¯t want to bother Jack by asking because Jack would be suspicious.


    "Did you say this is for me?"


    "Should I?"


    Bella rolled her eyes, "No wonder he didn¡¯t heed your request,"


    She headed to the table, looking for her cell phone. After she found the number she needed to call, Bella returned to her seat.


    "Y-You call him?" Leo was surprised. As far as he knew, only Jack knew that person¡¯s location and phone number.


    And, as Jack¡¯s assistant for years, he never knew that person¡¯s number. Whenever he needs that person to do some work, he submits the request through a unique website and gets a ticket to the queue.


    This morning, he got to number five when submitting the request form. The system said the data he needed would be finished on five at noon.


    However now, S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was casually calling that person, which shocked him.


    Leo narrowed his eyes and looked at Bella, thrilled to know whether the connection was going through.


    "Of course, I know. I¡¯m the one who brings him into our company. You didn¡¯t know?"


    Leo was utterly speechless. He opened his mouth a few times to say something, but no words left his lips.


    He was shocked to know that their formidable Hacker had entered their company through Bella.


    "I just don¡¯t want to be involved with the company. So, I told him to communicate with Jack," Bella continued to explain after she saw Leo¡¯s comical expression.


    ...


    As soon as the line was connected, a man¡¯s voice, speaking English with a Russian accent, greeted Bella from the other end.


    "Wow! I almost died in shock when I saw your phone number appear on my cellphone. It¡¯s been a while. Where have you been all this time, sis Bella?"


    Bella can¡¯t help but laugh happily, hearing his greeting.


    "Stefan, I am always here, in my country. Well, you sound great, Stefan... Your voice no longer sounded like a teenager."


    "Of course, I¡¯m a grown person now. It¡¯s been ten years since we first met, remember!?" Stefan asked while trying to remember the exact years they first met.


    "I know. Forgive my ignorance. In my memory, I remember you were a very active and brilliant teenage boy, Stefan..." Bella starts to remember how they met for the first time.


    At that time, he was still 17 years old. She had also just established a company with Jack. They needed computer experts to help them, and somehow, this kid appeared before her, offering himself to help them.


    Looking at his sincerity and capability, Bella immediately accepted his offer.


    She never doubted Stefan¡¯s abilities, so she immediately agreed to use his talent and hire him as their prominent Hacker.


    A year later, after they met, Bella found out that no client wanted to use Stefan¡¯s talent at that time. Because of his age, it is difficult to get a job, and they doubt his ability¡ªno wonder Stefan accepts her offer even though they can¡¯t afford to pay him more than his market price.


    Since then, Stefan has become their exclusive Hacker. He has also significantly contributed to the success of the RDF Group and all its businesses worldwide.


    Bella heard from Jack that Stefan has a share in their company, but his involvement was discreet.


    "I heard from Jack that you have become a mother now?" Stefan was excited to hear he would visit her again. And now he gets to see not only Bella but also her son.


    "Yeah, I have a son. And I also reside in Fort City. Come to visit me, Stefan, and meet my son. Well, my son has the talent to use his computer, too."


    "Really? Alright, I will stop there." Stefan¡¯s voice sounded excited; he needed to visit a warmer place. He can¡¯t stand it, the coldest in his village.


    "Okay, that sounds terrific."


    "Bella... Why did you suddenly call me after so many years!?" Stefan asked.


    She immediately told him about the needed data and how Leo submitted it to his website.


    "I don¡¯t understand the details. Maybe Leo could explain them to you further..." Bella immediately gave Leo her cell phone so they could talk directly to Stefan.


    After a few minutes,


    Leo finally finished talking to Stefan about what document they needed.


    "I see. Okay, I will work it out now." But before Stefan ends his conversation with Leo, he still wants to talk to Bella. "Can you return the phone to Bella?"


    Bella and Stefan chatted again for another minute. Before long, they finally ended the call, with Stefan promising to visit her soon.

 Chapter 117: Can’t Refused Dax Request

    The day it was passed quickly.


    Bella spent her entire afternoon engrossed in reports about Stellar Entertainment.


    The more she read, the dizzier she felt, realizing the company¡¯s dire state.


    Some directors acted as sugar daddies for Stellar Entertainment¡¯s young talent. Surprisingly, they are using company funds instead of their own.


    Stellar Entertainment often paid hefty prices for poor results, mainly when directors utilized their family companies for various projects.


    To make matters worse, the CFO of Stellar Entertainment even produced a movie based on his son¡¯s trash script, which flopped in the market and caused significant losses.


    All this time, the financial reports sent to the head office didn¡¯t reflect the reality here.


    Bella felt fortunate to have Stefan, who uncovered their deceitful under-the-table agreement.


    Now, she only needed to wait for Sam¡¯s report. She required more evidence to dismiss and sue them for embezzling funds from her company.


    She vowed to ensure they left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.


    ...


    A sinister smile crept across Bella¡¯s face as she closed her laptop and stood up from her chair, peering outside to bless her eyes with a beautiful blue sky.


    However, Bella¡¯s mind was still filled with company matters.


    ¡¯Did Jack know that his friend, whom he entrusted to run Quantum Capital and Stellar Entertainment, was betraying him? Stabbing him from behind!?¡¯ This thought had bothered her.


    Stellar Entertainment wasn¡¯t a new company in this country. It had been established seven years ago. She could imagine the amount of money they¡¯d stolen.


    Bella had only checked one subsidiary company and discovered numerous financial problems. She hoped the others weren¡¯t as troublesome as Stellar Entertainment.


    She sighs deeply. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That poor Jack will be shocked if he knows all this..."


    ****


    Bella no longer has the energy to read all those documents. She decides to return home after she gets a text from her son.


    [Baby Dax] Mommy, what time will you return home?


    [Baby Dax] I miss you, Mommy (Cry emoji)


    How could she stay longer in the office if her baby texted her like that? She can¡¯t resist his cuteness. Well, nobody can.


    Bella tidied her table quickly and then asked Sam to prepare a car for her in the lobby.


    While heading to the elevator, Bella called Dax. Her smile grew wider when she heard his cute and cheerful voice from the other end.


    "Hello, Mommy... what time do you go home?"


    "Baby, I¡¯m finished now and have just to enter the elevator. I will arrive home before you know it¡­" She smiles when she hears his excited cheers. "Did you take a nap?"


    "Yes, I just woke up and texted you."


    "Alright, I will arrive home soon."


    Bella ended the call when she arrived at the lobby.


    Her cell phone rang again before she exited the main entrance. She was suprised to see the caller.


    She was reluctant to pick up, staring at her phone for a few seconds.


    "Hi, Tristan... What is it?"


    "Why do you sound unhappy picking up my call?" Tristan¡¯s voice rang from the other end, surprised Bella.


    She looked around and found a familiar car that had just stopped in the lobby.


    "Tr-Tristan? Why did you co¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words. She was too shocked to see Tristan coming to her office.


    She was worried that someone might recognize him. However, suddenly, Laura Kiels flashed in her mind. She dismisses her worry with a sour smile.


    ¡¯Geez, Bella... This man didn¡¯t come to meet you. He comes to meet his woman...¡¯


    How could she have thought this man would come to pick her up? It was impossible, right!?


    However, just as Bella wanted to tease him about Laura Kiels, she heard Tristan say,


    "Get in my car. We will head home together..."


    ¡¯What the hell?¡¯ Bella can¡¯t help but curse. ¡¯He comes to pick me up? Seriously!?¡¯


    She narrowed her eyes at the car¡¯s back row. Even though she couldn¡¯t see through the thick, dark window, she believed Tristan was staring back at her.


    "If you don¡¯t enter my car now, I will come out and greet you there," Tristan said casually, but Bella instantly worried. "I came here after receiving our son¡¯s phone call. Dax asked me to pick you up." he smiled, remembering this was one of Dax¡¯s ideas.


    Dax plans all of this, ensuring his parents return home together. He even contacted Dylan to empty Tristan¡¯s schedule at noon.


    "NO! Don¡¯t ever step out of your car, Tristan!" Bella scolded him quickly, afraid someone would see him. "You stay there. I need to talk with my driver."


    Beep!


    After ending the call, she walked toward Sam, who was now waiting for her.


    "Sam, you don¡¯t have to drive me home. I will go home with someone," Bella said. She silently took a deep breath before continuing. "You can continue your investigation and report to me if you find something suspicious."


    "Yes, boss..." Sam slightly nods. After seeing Bella enter the luxury car, he returned to the building.


    ...


    Tristan tried to keep a straight face, holding back the urge to smile when Bella sat beside him. He was amazed by his son¡¯s brilliant idea.


    After the vehicle left the building, he turned to Bella and said, "Please don¡¯t blame me for suddenly appearing here. I was only following our son¡¯s request."


    Bella narrowed her eyes at him. She doubts it.


    Tristan chuckled before reassuring her, "I couldn¡¯t refuse our son¡¯s request. When he called me, I happened to be passing by your office. You can ask him if you don¡¯t believe me..."


    Bella took a deep breath. She was annoyed but couldn¡¯t take her frustration out on him.


    They both fell silent.


    Bella turned her gaze out the window, avoiding Tristan¡¯s gaze.


    She tried to enjoy the view outside. After so many things happened today, she just needed to rest her mind. She slowly closed her eyes and pretended to sleep.


    But, not long after, Tristan¡¯s voice was heard again.


    "Are you still annoyed with me? Alright, I will call Dax now¡ª"


    "No need," Bella stopped him. She turns her gaze to see him, "I believe you."

 Chapter 118: What Happen In The Past (1)

    Tristan smiled at her words. He could see she was no longer as irritated as before.


    "How¡¯s your first day?"


    Tristan couldn¡¯t stop thinking about her all day but was too afraid to call. He didn¡¯t want to risk bothering her, afraid she would be in a bad mood.


    Bella faintly smiles at his question. Her first day felt like a rollercoaster because Laura¡¯s manager succeeded in ruining her mood early in the morning.


    "Well, your woman, Ms. Kiels, gives me a headache¡ª" Bella stopped her words when she saw Tristan¡¯s displeased expression.


    Tristan pressed the button, and slowly, a divider appeared, separating them from the front row.


    After making sure they were safe to speak without the driver, the bodyguard could hear them. Tristan turned to see Bella, his serious gaze surprising her.


    "Bella, please. How many times should I tell you that I don¡¯t have a relationship with that woman? What should I do to make you believe it?"


    "You don¡¯t have to do anything or explain. I¡¯m just saying what I saw..."


    The lines on Tristan¡¯s forehead became increasingly visible hearing her words.


    "What exactly do you see to assume I have a relationship with her? Please tell me so I can understand and clarify for you."


    Tristan felt confused because her accusation was utterly baseless. He is not related to Laura Kiels, as she believes.


    Bella looked out the window, trying to calm her upset heart. She remembered when she wanted to forgive Tristan and tell him about her pregnancy; she heard Tristan had visited Promise Hospital with Laura Kiels.


    "Bella, please..." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded closer to her ear. She turned around and saw his face only inches from hers.


    Too close, she could feel his fresh, minty breath brushing her face.


    Instantly, her heart beat loudly. She was frozen for a few seconds before pulling her head away from him.


    "T-Tristan, please sit properly," Bella stammered, trying to control her calmness, but her nervous voice betrayed her.


    "I¡¯ll tell you when you¡¯re sitting properly," she continued when she saw Tristan not budging.


    After seeing him sitting properly again, Bella told him about what she had heard and seen on CCTV that day at Promise Hospital.


    Tristan was shocked to hear Bella¡¯s words. He tried to say something, but Bella stopped him.


    "Did you know, Tristan? At that time, before I heard what the nurses were gossiping about, I intended to contact you to tell you about my pregnancy. But I change my mind..." S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Bella¡ª" Tristan feels suffocated to continue his words.


    "There¡¯s no point for me to tell you about my pregnancy because that woman is also pregnant. You and your mother chose her," a soft chuckle escaped Bella¡¯s lips before continuing her words. "I left this country for my sanity and my child¡ª"


    Bella lowered her gaze to hide her teary eyes. She didn¡¯t want to make him witness her sadness.


    While Tristan,


    He was lost in thought, remembering what had happened that day. He never expected that day Bella would be rushed to the emergency room after he had spoken hurtfully to her.


    Tristan could no longer contain his emotions. He drew nearer to her and embraced her tightly, even though he felt Bella pushing him away.


    Bella was shocked.


    "Let me go, Tristan Sinclair!" she shouted, annoyed. However, after her struggles failed and she felt Tristan¡¯s body tremble, she ceased pushing him.


    ¡¯Is he crying? Why... Why did he cry!?¡¯


    Bella couldn¡¯t believe this man could cry, too.


    After a few more minutes passed, when she felt he no longer tremble, and no sobs could be heard. Bella pushed him again, but Tristan tightened his embrace, causing her to sigh deeply.


    "Tristan, you promised me you would never do this again, but¡ª"


    "Please, just this time. Let me hug you. Just this time..." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded shaky, making Bella¡¯s annoyance slowly melt. "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. I¡¯m sorry if I hurt you..."


    The harsh words he said to Bella when she finally decided to sign the divorce papers began to flood his mind again. Torture him. He would never forgive himself for doing that to her. Never!


    "Please, Tristan... stop apologizing for what happened in the past! I told you before to forget about it. I¡¯m tired of remembering all that!"


    "I know. But I vow to myself that I will never forget that moment. I want to keep remembering it as a form of punishment for hurting you, Bella," he whispers.


    Bella, "...."


    "Well, I like your idea, Tristan. But, can you not include me?"


    Tristan abruptly released his hug and placed his hand on Bella¡¯s shoulder before he asked, "What do you mean?" He looks at her with a puzzled expression


    "My heart hurts again every time I remember those moments. So, please, stop reminding me of those painful memories..." Her eyes trembled slightly, meeting his worried gaze.


    He quickly nodded, agreeing with her.


    "Bella, I need to explain what happened. I don¡¯t want you to misunderstand."


    "Oh my god, why do you insist?" She sighed and tried to hide her annoyance on her face by looking away.


    "Bella, please listen to me first. I must clarify because what you think about me was completely wrong."


    Tristan smiled bitterly as he watched Bella avoid him. He pulled out his laptop from his briefcase.


    He was busy looking for something there, making Bella curious to see what he was doing. She glanced at him and was surprised to see him open a video.


    "Okay, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can see this CCTV footage." Tristan pointed his laptop screen at Bella before he pressed ¡¯PLAY¡¯ on the video.


    Not saying a word, Bella watched the CCTV video recording.


    She was confused when she saw footage of a luxury hotel corridor.


    Before Bella could ask Tristan, she was shocked to see Laura Kiels in a tight gown, barely covering her sexy body, staggering like a drunk person. She stopped before the door and took the keys from her bag. After struggling to open the door, she finally disappeared behind the door.


    Not long after, Tristan, who looked drunk, walked in the same corridor.


    Bella¡¯s expression slowly changed.

 Chapter 119: What Happen In The Past (2)

    Not long after, Tristan, who also looked drunk, walked in the same corridor.


    Bella¡¯s expression slowly changed.


    She tries to remain calm despite feeling like a war drum is beating in her chest.


    ¡¯Why does this man want me to see this video? ¡¯ She wondered, quickly glancing at him.


    Bella was stunned because Tristan was now staring back at her. In a hurry, she lowers her gaze again to the video.


    The next scene Bella saw shocked her greatly.


    Just before Tristan wanted to open the door, she saw Dylan running after Tristan and stopped him. Then, Dylan took Tristan out of the corridor. In only a few seconds, another man walked to the door and entered the room that Laura Kiels had entered.


    "T-this..." Bella was lost for words. She instantly understood why Tristan wanted her to watch this CCTV footage.


    Bella slowly turned her gaze at him. She feels embarrassed to meet his innocent gaze because she accused him of something he didn¡¯t do.


    However, a few times, she opened her mouth to say something to confirm what was on her mind, but all her words seemed stuck in her throat.


    "Now, do you believe I¡¯m not related to her right?"


    She ignores his question and asks, "Her child isn¡¯t yours?"


    Tristan laughs softly.


    "Hahaha, of course not. Dylan thwarted my mother¡¯s plans..." He felt grateful because Dylan knew his mother was planning something terrible for him that night.


    He usually didn¡¯t attend the company celebration party. Still, that day, he came because his father suddenly felt sick and asked him to replace him. The party was held at one of their hotels near his office, so he agreed.


    Who knows, his mother had prepared a trap for Tristan that night. After he opened the company party, as he was about to leave, his head suddenly felt dizzy, and his body felt blazing hot.


    Tristan decided to go to the presidential suite, where he usually rested when visiting this hotel. However, before he enters the room, Dylan finds out about Jessica Sinclair¡¯s big plan ¡ª to set a trap for her son to spend an intimate night with Laura Kiels, who is waiting for him in the room.


    That night, after Tristan rested in another room and called his personal doctor, he discovered that someone had given him an aphrodisiac.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t imagine what would have happened to him if he had entered that room that night. He would never forgive his mother for her cruelness.


    ...


    Hearing confirmation from Tristan, Bella feels like someone just lifted a weight on her shoulder.


    She feels relieved, not for herself but for her son. At least Dax didn¡¯t have another rival in the Sinclair Family.


    Bella didn¡¯t want her son to experience the cruel competition between heirs in the chaebol family that she usually watched in dramas. She will never allow her son to suffer.


    Sigh!


    At least...


    This is all just a misunderstanding. However, Bella felt embarrassed because she had been thinking negatively about him all this time. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A faint smile graces her face, but later, something crosses her mind, and her smile slowly vanishes as she looks at him.


    ¡¯If he knew from the start the child was not his child, why did the nurse say he came to Promise Hospital with Laura Kiels!?¡¯ This thought lingers in her mind. She clarified this one.


    "Tristan, may I ask you something?"


    "Sure."


    "Why are you appearing at the promised hospital with her?" She asked.


    "Well, Bella... you misunderstood. I didn¡¯t come to the hospital with her. I didn¡¯t even know she came to that hospital that day."


    Bella slightly frowned.


    "You said you saw the CCTV footage, right?" Tristan asked.


    She didn¡¯t answer him, only staring at him suspiciously.


    "Did you see me and her in one frame with your own eyes?"


    Bella was stunned. She didn¡¯t see it. She only sees him enter the hospital. That time, she felt too angry to check the whole CCTV.


    When Tristan saw Bella still hadn¡¯t uttered anything, he continued, "I know my mother¡¯s plot. She wanted me to marry Laura Kiels and framed me with her pregnancy, but my mother didn¡¯t realize that I already knew her entire plan. Thanks to Max, who discover their scheme..."


    Tristan continued after he inhaled as much air as possible, "The woman was also drunk to realize that the man who came into her room was not me but a random man Dylan paid to sleep with her all night. Well, you saw the video earlier..."


    Bella slightly nods. She was amazed at Dylan.


    She didn¡¯t expect him to make a nasty plot like that to teach Laura Kiels.


    "Since that night, I¡¯ve sent someone to spy on Laura Kiels, and I know about her pregnancy. I found out she actually checked up on his pregnancy at the Promise Hospital..."


    Tristan explained everything, which surprised Bella, but she silently heard and let him finish speaking.


    When Tristan finally concluded his words, the vehicle arrived at Little Heaven. There were only a few minutes left until they arrived at her home.


    Bella was unable to say something, shocked by what she heard from Tristan. Now she understood why Tristan came to the hospital; he came to receive a DNA test for the child in Laura¡¯s womb ¡ª he needed that test result to silence Laura if she came to him to claim he was her baby¡¯s father.


    And,


    What Tristan has predicted came true. That woman, Laura Kiels, started contacting him and intended to blackmail him.


    Tristan didn¡¯t bother to explain; he just gave her the CCTV footage and also her unborn DNA test.


    A few days later, Tristan heard that Laura Kiels had had a miscarriage. He found out from his friend, one of the directors of the Promise Hospital.


    "How evil is she? Why would she kill her own baby??" Bella comments angrily.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. I can¡¯t answer that," he chuckled. "And I don¡¯t care what she does."


    Bella could only sigh, trying to throw Laura Kiels out of her mind.

 Chapter 120: Mission Fail!

    The car finally stops at the yard. Before Bella could leave the car, Tristan stopped her.


    "Bella, please wait."


    "Yes?"


    "Are you still misunderstanding me, or do you understand me now?"


    A guilty smile appeared on the edge of Bella¡¯s lips. She looked at how worried he was now.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan, I¡¯ve been accusing you all this time. Yes, I believe you now."


    Knowing what happened in the past caused her to wonder if she didn¡¯t stop to meet him at the time; they were still husband and wife. Dax will grow up with a father figure by his side, and this man will be a fantastic father to their son.


    A surge of warmth enveloped Bella as she imagined her happy little family, causing a gentle smile to spread across her lips. However, her smile slowly faded when she realized all that, only her wishful thinking.


    As a human, Bella could not turn back time and fix everything. She could only accept and endure everything because of the decisions she made in the past. She couldn¡¯t blame anyone¡ªTristan or herself.


    Well,


    At least everything is clear now. There is no longer any misunderstanding between them.


    "Thank you, Bella... But you don¡¯t have to apologize for something that I, myself, caused that to happen."


    She didn¡¯t say anything and could only return his smile.


    Tristan¡¯s blue eyes were slightly beaming as he said, "Now that you know my innocence, let¡¯s start everything and become husband and wife again. How?"


    Bella, "...."


    Seeing Tristan¡¯s tense eyes waiting for her answer made her take another deep breath before answering.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan. My answer is still no..." She stepped out of the car before Tristan could say anything.


    No language could describe how disappointed he was at this moment to hear her firm rejection.


    It wasn¡¯t the first time he heard Bella say that sentence, but this time, he felt very hurt because she already knew the truth but still rejected him.


    Tristan took out his cell phone and opened the Cupid Alliance group chat. In a hurry, he type.


    [Tristan] My son and all... we are arriving.


    [Tristan] I have to say that the mission has failed. (Sad emoji)


    [Dax] Daddy, fighting! (Fire emoji)


    [Dax] You have plenty of time, Daddy...


    [Noora] Master, cheer up!


    [Lewis] Tsk! You have to work hard, Brat!


    .


    .


    .


    He took a deep breath, reading encouraging messages from the chat group members.


    Tristan felt he was chatting directly with them, even though it was only via group chat. He smiled while looking at his cellphone screen and started to forget Bella¡¯s firm rejection.


    Later,


    Tristan was startled when he heard a soft knock on the car window. He turned to look and was surprised to see Bella standing near his car.


    He thought she was already sprinting into her house.


    Just before he wanted to open the car door, his cell phone vibrated.


    [Isaac] Don¡¯t be sad, Tristan.


    [Isaac] Join us for dinner.


    As Tristan read Isaac¡¯s text message, a wave of joy washed over him. Without hesitation, he opened the car door and stepped out, greeting her with a smile as if nothing had happened.


    "Tristan, thank you for taking me home. You can go home now," said Bella, unable to hide her awkwardness.


    "Bella, I¡ª"


    She quickly said, "Bye..." before Tristan could finish his sentence.


    Bella turned around and ran toward the main door. She didn¡¯t want to give him a chance to continue their conversation earlier.


    Feeling relieved to be free from Tristan finally, Bella walked casually into the house. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, before Bella could close the door, out of the corner of her eye, she saw Tristan walking behind her.


    ¡¯Why did he follow me?¡¯ Bella panicked as she turned around and faced him. They had only separated by two steps.


    "Why are you still here, Tristan!? Do you want to pick up Dax? Tristan, remember our deal? I¡¯ll bring Dax to your house after dinner, but he can only stay until nine." Bella reminds Tristan of their agreement.


    "Of course, I remember about it, Bella," Tristan said with a smile, noticing how amused she looked despite her initial annoyance. He continued, "I¡¯ll be joining you and Dax for dinner," he added casually, but his words suprised her. She almost lost her balance.


    "WHAT!?" Bella gasped while holding the wall beside her. "Tr-Tristan, you can¡¯t come here as you please. This is not my house, but my grandfather¡¯s house. You have to respect him." She begged.


    Bella didn¡¯t want Tristan to visit their house as he pleased and stressed out her Grandpa, who still hasn¡¯t forgiven him for what happened in the past.


    "I know, Bella," Tristan said, holding back laughter, "That¡¯s why I only come when invited. Your Grandpa asked me to join you for¡ª" He didn¡¯t continue his sentence when he saw Isaac and Dax appear from inside, approaching them.


    "Bella, when I heard from Little Dax that Tristan visited our house, I invited him to join us for Dinner," Isaac explained.


    She was speechless upon seeing her Grandpa; she couldn¡¯t believe he had invited Tristan to join them for dinner.


    Did he always want to break Tristan¡¯s leg every time they met? Bella narrowed her eyes, looking at him, trying to check whether he was serious about doing it or it was just an expression.


    ¡¯Gosh! Since when did Grandpa become softened to Tristan?¡¯


    "Mommy..." Upon hearing Dax¡¯s cute voice, Bella turned to see him with a loving smile.


    "Yes, baby..."


    Dax held Bella¡¯s hand, "I also want Dad to join us for dinner. Is that okay?" he asked, blinking a few times to get his mother to agree.


    Bella, "..."


    She becomes suspicious as she feels her grandfather and son are plotting something.


    "Sure..." Bella smiled warmly at Dax, putting aside his suspicions about them. "Sure, baby. You know what? Mommy misses you. How was your day?" she asked softly.


    "I¡¯m busy today, Mom. I spent my day with Aunt Noora and Uncle Nick..." Dax cheerfully explained his day to Bella.


    But Later, Isaac stopped him, "Alright, little man. Let¡¯s go inside and talk."


    Dax nods and takes his father¡¯s hand. "Let¡¯s go, Daddy," he says, leading them inside the house while holding hands with both parents.


    Bella, "..."


    Tristan feels happy and content, knowing he has a supportive son who has chosen to be on his side.

 Chapter 121: Suspicious Jack

    A week later.


    Bella¡¯s week was like a roller coaster.


    Tristan came to her house more often for unreasonable reasons. He stopped by every morning to have breakfast or lunch with them, which stressed her out.


    What surprised Bella was that her grandfather didn¡¯t care if Tristan came to their house too often. He seems to support Tristan.


    When she asks her Grandpa, he answers with ambiguous answers or uses Dax as an excuse. Obviously, whenever Dax gets involved, she stops asking questions and drops that matter.


    Last weekend, Tristan was busy at her house overseeing the construction workers who were building a new road between their homes. Now, they no longer need to go through the main gate to visit each other¡¯s homes.


    The funny thing is that Sam, her company driver, hasn¡¯t carried out his duties in the last few days. He didn¡¯t have a chance to do that. This is because Tristan has been taking on the role of driving for her. He picks her up in the morning to take her to the office and then picks her up again in the evening when she returns home.


    Initially, Bella refused. However, she eventually got tired and found saying no to her son challenging, especially when Dax seemed to side with his father.


    She finally lets Tristan drive her around, but if the media or his parents know, he must stop immediately.


    Even though Tristan challenges her patience, she is grateful to be able to forget him every time she is in her office. Her plans to reshuffle Stellar Entertainment¡¯s Board of Directors successfully distract her mind.


    She had received a lot of evidence from Sam¡¯s investigations in the field. And there is no longer any reason for her to delay carrying out her plan.


    ...


    Bella was about to meet with her company¡¯s legal team in the afternoon. Still, to her annoyance, someone suddently appeared in her office and asked her to hold the meeting.


    She stood from her seat and glanced at the man standing near the glass window with his back facing her.


    "Do you want coffee, Jack?" she asked, heading to the coffee maker at the corner.


    "Yeah," Jack turned to look at him. "So, when are you going to start the meeting?" he was surprised to see her so relaxed that she needed to drink coffee first.


    Bella chuckled. She ignored Jack and focused on making an Espresso for him and a latte for herself.


    Later,


    She joined him, sitting on the sofa and placing his coffee on the table before starting to enjoy her latte.


    "Boss, did you forget you are the one who stopped me from meeting them?" Bella finally responds to him. She places her empty cup on the table and continues. "Why are you rushing here? I told you before that I will handle everything." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jack crossed his legs as he casually emptied his expresso. He didn¡¯t answer her, but his smile was enough to make Bella suspicious of something.


    Many questions began to arise in Bella¡¯s mind, seeing Jack¡¯s expression, which looked calm, not panicked as Leo had feared. This man would stop her from continuing the investigation. But he seemed relaxed now. Why?


    Something isn¡¯t, right?


    She narrowed at him, trying to figure out what he was thinking. But she can¡¯t figure something out.


    The two stared at each other without saying anything, as if engaged in an intense inner battle.


    After some time, Jack laughs when he can¡¯t hold his amusement. "Hahaha, Oh, Bella... I know you miss me. But, please, enough staring at me like you want to eat me."


    Since arriving, Bella gave Jack annoyed looks and sharp words. However, Jack ignores her annoyance. He was exhausted from explaining everything.


    "¡ªSeriously? Why did you come?" Bella finally said something after a long pause.


    "Why are you asking again? Of course, I came here to see you and Dax. I miss you guys. You¡¯ve been here almost a month, and I already miss you... But you¡­you didn¡¯t miss me?" He responds with an innocent tone.


    Bella, "..."


    "Jack, I don¡¯t have time to play words with you. I¡¯m busy..." She gives him a ¡ª speak now, or I will leave ¡ª kind of gaze.


    When he saw him starting to pay more attention to her, she continued, "Why did you stop me from meeting the legal team? What do you want? Just let me know."


    Bella begins to become suspicious of Jack. Yesterday, he stopped her from doing anything regarding Stellar Entertainment.


    What surprised Bella was that this man said he would fly to Astington to discuss this matter. But he had arrived more than an hour earlier and had not mentioned the matter.


    This confused her.


    "I already tell you my reason, Bella." He shook his head while smiling.


    "Heaven!! Jack, no... not about your personal matter to meet us. But, about office matter."


    Jack didn¡¯t say anything. He avoided her sharp gaze.


    "Jack, I know you too well. What is more important than leaving your wife for a business trip?"


    Bella smiled when she saw his expression slightly change.


    Jack tries to maintain calm, but this girl knows how to attack him. He silently took a deep sigh.


    "Tsk... Tsk... If I could, I would transfer my thoughts to you to make you believe."


    Bella is still suspicious.


    After a brief pause,


    A thought crossed Bella¡¯s mind.


    Suddently, she laughed when she realized why this man abruptly flew here after knowing she wanted to reshuffle the board of directors at Stellar Entertainment and Quantum Capital.


    Bella can¡¯t help but say, "Oh, Jack! You are such a coward. How dare you use me for something you can¡¯t do?"


    "W-What do you mean?" Jack asked confusedly, even though he inwardly scolded Bella for having a sharp instinct. But he still doubted whether she had guessed it correctly.


    "Hahaha, you¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t continue her words but called Stefan.


    When the call connected, she gave Jack a deadly gaze before speaking to Stefan.


    "Stefan, do you know the relationship between the CEO of Stellar and our lovely boss?"


    Jack¡¯s eyes widen in shock.

 Chapter 122: Make A Deal With Jack

    When the call connected, she gave Jack a deadly gaze before speaking to Stefan.


    "Stefan, do you know the relationship between the CEO of Stellar Entertainment and our lovely boss?"


    Jack¡¯s eyes widen in shock.


    Upon seeing Jack¡¯s reaction, Bella was confident of her correct guess. She pressed the speaker button before Stefan could speak. Then, she flashes Jack an angry-cold smile.


    Jack¡¯s calm demeanor dissolved instantly.


    "Of course, I know. I did include it in my report, right?" Stefan¡¯s hoarse voice came from the other end as if he had just awakened from sleep.


    Bella¡¯s half-smile slowly appears on her lips as she looks at Jack.


    She took a deep breath before responding to Stefan, pretending to be disappointed that he had forgotten to include that. If she had known about Jack¡¯s connection to the CEO of Stellar Entertainment earlier, she would have made a deal with Jack.


    "Huh... Really!?" Stefan was shocked to realize he had made a mistake. How could he not include the critical information in the report? S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mhm, you didn¡¯t..."


    "Sorry, sister Bella," He feels terrible. "Well, he is Jack¡¯s brother-in-law. I guess Jack already knows about it, but he pretends¡ª"


    "Okay, Stefan. Thanks for your hard work." Jack shouted before this young man exposed him. "¡ªGo back and sleep again. I know there in the middle of the night!"


    Stefan, who had just yawned while scratching his head, was surprised to hear Jack¡¯s voice on the other end. His still half-open eyes widened.


    "B-Boss, are you at Sister Bella¡¯s place? Why didn¡¯t you ask me to go with you to Astington!? You are so heartless," he feels sulked.


    Bella could only laugh amusedly, seeing Jack acting awkwardly in front of her. He let her talk to Stefan for a few more seconds.


    After the phone ended, Bella couldn¡¯t help but say, "Damn it, Jack Foster! I can¡¯t believe you used me to fire your brother-in-law. You such a coward!"


    Jack¡¯s face instantly turned grim, as if someone had spat in his food after hearing Bella¡¯s words. He couldn¡¯t deny what Bella had said. She was correct in her assessment; he lacked the courage to terminate his wife¡¯s brother from his job.


    He was concerned that if he took such an action, it would cause his wife to become angry with him and could even kick him out of their bed. This would cause a lot of trouble for him if it were to happen, right!?


    Despite being aware of his brother-in-law¡¯s inability to run their company in this country, Jack chose to ignore it.


    He began looking for someone who could take up the responsibility on his behalf to fire his brother-in-law.


    After trying to find someone who could help him, only Bella came to his mind, who could do that for him.


    That¡¯s why he chased Bella several years ago, trying to convince her to return to the company and clean up the mess his brother-in-law had made.


    "Kind and pretty, Bella... that¡¯s why I need your help," Jack¡¯s lips lifted into a miserable smile before he said, "You know my wife, right? She¡¯ll sulk in a few days, no, a month, and throw me out if I fire her brother," he took another long, deep sigh.


    Bella, "...."


    He speaks with a miserable tone and asks, "Don¡¯t you feel sorry for me?" his eyes lost their usual radiance.


    Bella huffed in frustration, taking a deep breath to calm herself, looking at his blatant act.


    "Ugh! Mr. Jack Foster, don¡¯t try to fool me. Since when did your wife direct you in company decision-making?" Bella rolled her eyes, not believing his lie.


    Jack, "..."


    Looking at his man still trying to fool her, an idea appears in her mind.


    A barely invisible smile graces her face before she pretends to be shocked, closing her mouth with one hand before saying,


    "No way, Jack!! Don¡¯t tell me that now you are a member of the... ¡¯Husbands Afraid of Wives¡¯ club? No?" She blinked her eyes several times, waiting for him to respond.


    ¡¯What the hell is that? That kind of club exists in this world!? Seriously?¡¯ Jack frowned, thinking about Bella¡¯s words.


    Didn¡¯t get any response, she continued, "Is it? Oh my... I feel sorry for you, my friend."


    Jack can¡¯t take it anymore. He will never win talking to her.


    "Alright... Alright... what do you need?" he gave up talking to this smart-heartless woman. "Island? Yatch? Jet? Penthouse?


    Just tell me what you need. I will gladly give you..."


    "Oh, you learn fast, boss," she said calmly. But inside, she was laughing with joy. Finally, Jack gave in. She needed to hear this all along: "Okay, boss, I don¡¯t need those items. But I only need a few shares."


    Jack was speechless. He didn¡¯t expect her to choose shareholder over the luxury items he offered.


    "Bella, how could you ask my share? Did you know I already gave Stefan some of my shares?" Jack protests. He could give her anything but not RDF Group share.


    Bella ignores his annoyance. She takes her cell phone while typing something.


    "Boss, don¡¯t blame me if I send the wrong text to your wifey," Bella pauses. Her eyes widen. She covers her mouth with her hand and looks at Jack with her sorry gaze. "OMG! B-Boss, I just sent a..."


    Jack was rendered speechless. Was this woman aware that she didn¡¯t have the talent to become an actress? Her acting was terrible.


    "Sigh! Alright, alright. I will transfer you 0,25 percent of my share. This is the best I can give you..."


    Bella, ignore Jack. With her innocent expression, she continued, "Ah, it seems like I didn¡¯t send the details to my sister-in-law. Ugh, I have to edit my text now. I should tell my sister-in-law that you were actually planning how to get her brother out of the company."


    Jack, "...."


    He shook his head while remembering those lines he had read in the past, "Women sure are creatures that are hard to deal with." And Bella¡¯s just proves those lines.


    Sigh!

 Chapter 123: Her Identity Was Revealed

    He shook his head while remembering those lines he had read in the past, "Women sure are creatures that are hard to deal with." And Bella¡¯s just proves those lines.


    Sigh!


    "Okay, one percent..." Jack gave another number, but Bella still ignored him. He quietly vented his frustration in his mind.


    "My friend, Bella... This is my final offer to you. One and a half percent, take it or leave it!" He said firmly. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The corners of her lips lifted, revealing a charming, icy smile; however, her smile gradually vanished before saying,


    "Jack, please don¡¯t sulk like that. Do you know that my shares are the smallest among us? Also, I¡¯m the only one with children." Bella¡¯s shoulders slumped. "Inflation makes me have to work hard to earn money. You know about that, right?"


    Jack, "..."


    ¡¯What the hell!? Now, she uses little Dax to sway me?¡¯ Jack can¡¯t believe what he hears. He tries to shut his mind. He doesn¡¯t want to listen to her words, or else he will suffer a heavy loss this time.


    "I just need to earn money for my child¡¯s better future. And did you forget that you are my son¡¯s godfather!?" She said while pretending to wipe away the traces of fake tears.


    Jack, "..."


    This woman succeeded in convincing him. He gives in.


    After Jack took another fresh air to fill his stuffy chest, he stated, "One and a half percent and one house in this city. This is my final offer, Bella. I will not add anything..."


    Bella smiles at him, "Your condo near Central Park, New York..."


    Jack attempted to speak but could not form words, settling for a nod to show his agreement with her demand.


    A spring-like smile crosses Bella¡¯s beautiful face as she clasps her hand happily.


    "Deal!!" she stood from her seat and offered him a handshake. "Happy to make a deal with you, Mr. Foster!"


    Jack, "...."


    She left him and walked to her desk. "Alright, let¡¯s go to the meeting room now. They are now waiting for us to discuss this matter..."


    Suddently Bella feels in a good mood. She took her iPad and left her office with Jack, heading to the meeting room.


    ****


    Meanwhile,


    Leo sat in the meeting room with four people from Quantum Capital¡¯s legal team and Stellar Entertainment. Daniel Sullivan, the Director of the Legal Department, leads the legal team. He worked for the RDF group a few years ago; however, Jack sent him here last year to help the company.


    Daniel Sullivan and his team already know about corruption in the company. Bella met him in person a few days ago.


    Today was the day they would decide what legal action to take and which Board of Directors to remove from the company.


    Daniel didn¡¯t care about the names on the list but was only concerned about one, Andreas Corby. He knew exactly who this person was.


    He was concerned about the safety of Bella Donovan, the new CEO. Being a part of the RDF Group CEO family, Andreas Corby was untouchable. Daniel wanted to remind Bella about this but hadn¡¯t had the opportunity yet.


    ...


    When Bella entered the meeting room, Daniel was surprised to see the man behind her.


    ¡¯Jack Foster? What is he doing here? Why did he come here? Did he know about this matter and come to stop it!?¡¯ Daniel¡¯s worries about Bella increased.


    Daniel Sullivan stood abruptly from his seat and greeted them.


    "Ms. Donovan," Daniel smiles at Bella and then looks at Jack. He said, "Mr. Foster, I¡¯m surprised to see you in this city. Welcome, sir..."


    When the other legal team member hears ¡¯Foster¡¯s¡¯ name, they all are wearing the same expression as Daniel ¡ª suprised. They also stood and greeted him.


    "Okay, gentlemen, let¡¯s sit again," Jack said while smiling at all of them. When his eyes fixed on Daniel, he continued. "Please continue your meeting; don¡¯t mind me here. I¡¯m only stopping by to visit Ms. Bella..."


    Jack glanced at Bella, gesturing for her to sit on the head of the table while he sat to her left side beside Leo.


    Daniel was surprised to see how respectful Jack was to Bella. This is a different treatment than he usually did to other company CEOs.


    Now, Daniel is starting to question Bella Donovan¡¯s background.


    ¡¯Who is she? Why does Jack insist that she should be the CEO of Quantum Capital?¡¯ He has known this position empty for almost seven years. Finally, this year, Jack appointed a young female out of the blue.


    "Daniel, something seems to be bothering you now?" Jack asked when he saw Daniel still standing while the others were sitting.


    "Sir, may I speak with you for a moment?" Daniel looked into Jack¡¯s eyes as if he wanted Jack to see his concern. "Just the two of us..." he continued. He tried to inform him about his brother-in-law¡¯s involvement and pleaded for him not to make trouble for Ms. Bella Donovan.


    Everyone is staring at Daniel. They appear confused by his tense expression, then notice Jack, who looks relaxed.


    "Daniel, I know your concern. You might sit now." Jack said.


    When Jack saw Daniel finally sit down, he continued, "Okay, let me tell you guys something confidential." He saw everyone in return. "Maybe you don¡¯t know or realize that RDF Group doesn¡¯t belong to me alone, right!?"


    Daniel and his team nodded.


    "And, you may not realize that RDF comes from the first letters of the last names of its three founders."


    They all frowned.


    Jack slightly raised his brow when he looked at Bella, who was ignoring them; she was engrossed in reading something on her iPad.


    "R stands for Reed, D stands for Donovan¡ª" Jack smiled when he saw them gasp in surprise. "...and the letter F stands for my last name, Foster. So, the woman next to me is one of the founders of RDF. And the reason we established a subsidiary company in this country is because this is her country."


    Daniel Sullivan and his team were shocked beyond words to know this. No wonder Jack deliberately emptied the CEO of Quantum Capital for a long time just for Bella Donovan¡¯s return.

 Chapter 124: Decision

    "Alright, guys, time is running out. Let¡¯s stop discuss the company¡¯s history and instead focus on the reason why we¡¯re all gathered in this meeting room." Bella spoke up, prompting everyone to nod and sit up straight, their attention now on her.


    She starts the meeting with Daniel and his team.


    ...


    When Bella discussed legal matters for Stellar Entertainment¡¯s Board of Directors with Daniel and his team, Leo and Jack were busy with their own discussions.


    "...So, what do you lose this time?" Leo speaks in a barely audible voice; only Jack can hear him.


    Leo had known about Jack¡¯s entire plan from the start. Jack actually appointed him to help Bella carry out this mission. He wanted to successfully get his brother-in-law out of the company without getting his hands dirty.


    Jack gave Leo a sharp look as he opened his wound again. When he saw Leo¡¯s eyebrow slightly raised, he snapped, "Stop pretending to ask. You know her too well, Leo!"


    "How many?" Leo asked with a sympathetic look, but inside, he was trying to hide his laughter.


    "I can¡¯t say the exact amount, but she gets more than you¡­" Jack feels his heartache again, remembering he lost another share to fire his brother-in-law.


    "Damn! Is she capable of making you give up that much? Why do you give her that much?"


    Leo was surprised that Bella got a share that was more significant than his own, half a percent more. He quickly looked over at Bella.


    ¡¯Tsk! Bella, you should teach me the art of negotiation with Jack.¡¯ Leo now sees Bella differently¡ªnever mess with her, or you will lose your fortune.


    Now, Leo wondered how much Alimony she received from her super-wealthy ex-husband!?


    "Mhm¡­ She stabbed me right in the heart using her adorable little son as the reason she needed money to raise him. How did I ignore that!?" Jack took another long, deep sigh, thinking about his loss today.


    Leo was speechless. He didn¡¯t expect Bella to be shameless enough to use Dax as a reason.


    Gosh!


    But Leo felt sorry for Jack. How could he fall into Bella¡¯s trap? Has he forgotten that Dax¡¯s father is a chaebol in this country?


    "Well, at least she only after your share, man! She didn¡¯t ask for other luxury stuff, like a jet or island..." Leo gently taps his shoulder to uplift his mood.


    Jack felt even more annoyed when he heard Leo¡¯s words. He looked into his eyes before saying, "Well, not just company share. She also got one of my expensive condos in Central Park."


    "What the hell!" Leo shouted, too shocked to hear Jack¡¯s words. He had forgotten entirely that they were still in the meeting room.


    Leo¡¯s voice shocked everyone there. David and the others looked at him, wondering why he was cursed, but no one asked.


    After a brief moment of silence, Bella was the first to speak.


    "Gentlemen, go outside if you both want to gossip about me! We are working here..." She could faintly hear what they were talking about because they were sitting close to her, but she pretended she didn¡¯t hear it.


    Leo maintained an innocent smile at Bella while venting sarcasm in his mind. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, Boss... you look tired now. I will ask someone to make a coffee for you," Leo stood up from his seat and hurriedly left the room, ignoring the stare and slap-gaze Jack shot at him.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. Her gaze slowly turned to Jack now.


    Jack, "..."


    ¡¯Leo! You traitor.¡¯ Jack can¡¯t help but scold Leo inwardly while sending Bella a warm smile. "Alright, Go on... continue your meeting. Don¡¯t mind me here," he said, pretending to read something on his cell phone.


    ...


    The intensity of the meeting increased as Jack and Leo joined in the conversation.


    They were so tuned in with their conversation they all lost track of time.


    However,


    Not long after, the intense meeting is abruptly distracted when a loud ringtone echoes in the room...


    [Ooh, I see you, see you, see you every time. And oh my, I, I, I like your style. You¡­you make me, make me, make me wanna cry...]


    Jack and the others immediately looked at Bella as if they wanted to ask through their gazes, "Seriously? Why isn¡¯t your cell phone muted during the meeting? What song is that!?"


    Bella¡¯s face turned grim when she heard her cell phone ringtone echo in the meeting room, too loud to shock everyone.


    She remembered that the ringtone was only set loud for three people ¡ª her Grandpa, Noora, and Dax.


    But why does Tristan¡¯s name appear there? She can¡¯t believe what she saw.


    ¡¯Did Dax add his father¡¯s number?¡¯


    Bella put aside her suspicions and quickly picked up the phone after looking Jack and the others in the eye with an apologetic look.


    She stood from her seat and stood in the corner.


    "Tristan, why did you call me?" Bella whisper. She didn¡¯t want anyone to know who she was talking to.


    "Bella, it¡¯s almost seven p.m., and you have not yet come out. You¡¯re still in your office, right?" Tristan¡¯s voice sounds worried from the other end.


    She checked her watch and was shocked to realize that what Tristan said was true. After she asked Tristan to wait, she turned to Leo and asked, "Why did you blind this glass wall?"


    "Boss, you said you wanted this meeting to be private. So, I deliberately sealed all the rooms in case there was¡ª" Leo didn¡¯t continue his sentence when he saw Bella stop him. He immediately presses the remote on the table.


    The white glass wall instantly changed to clear, revealing the conditions outside; the sky outside was already dark.


    Bella took a deep breath when she realized they had been meeting too long. It was no wonder her back felt hurt; she had been sitting for too long.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry I kept you waiting so long. I¡¯ll be down soon."


    "Alright, no need to rush. Take your time..." Tristan said.


    After Bella ended the call, she dismissed the legal team and asked them to carry out a plan.


    Now, she just needed to wait for the shocking news in a few days!


    She feels excited!

 Chapter 125: He Is Nobody

    Although the board of directors¡¯ reshuffle was done to help Jack, Bella still felt grateful and satisfied with the meeting¡¯s outcome.


    Stellar Entertainment can be saved by removing the person responsible for the damage, preventing other employees from losing their jobs.


    ...


    "Let¡¯s dine first before you go home, Bella." Jack follows Bella to her office, with Leo tailing them from behind.


    "No. I have to go home. I left Dax since morning, so I must return now."


    Bella had already promised her son she would always have dinner with him. Still, after only a week as a working mother, she had already broken her promise. She feels terrible.


    "Oh, come on, I will not stay long in this city. Spare me your time¡­"


    Jack leaned against the door frame while watching Bella tidy her desk. He was impressed by how quickly she gathered her things.


    "Boss, you can have dinner with me upstairs. Bella never accepts dinner invitations...Let¡¯s go!" Leo patted Jack¡¯s shoulder when he saw Bella ignore him.


    Jack looked at Leo, confused by his words. He knew Bella had chosen to hide herself while living in Sweden because her house was isolated from the outside world. However, she doesn¡¯t have to do that here. She also needs to socialize in this bustling city, right!?


    "Why she can¡¯t go dine with us?" Jack asked.


    "Because she can¡¯t..." Leo knew that Tristan Sinclair picked her up daily to go home together. Bella wouldn¡¯t allow Tristan to meet them, especially Jack.


    A faint smile appeared on the corner of Jack¡¯s lips; he could guess what Leo meant. It must be related to the news he heard from Sam about what has been happening here lately. Faintly took a deep breath, Jack fixed his gaze on Bella again.


    "Bella, we¡¯ll have dinner in just an hour... I guarantee you¡¯ll be home before Dax goes to sleep. I can also call Dax if you feel sorry for him. How!?"


    She ignores his words.


    "Boss, are you flying back to New York tonight?" Bella glances at Jack quickly before changing her stilettos to white sneakers.


    Jack shook his head.


    "Nope. I can¡¯t return home now. Someone may not believe my effort to help¡ª" Jack¡¯s voice trails off when he sees Bella roll her eyes while walking past him. He follows her to the elevator without saying anything else.


    Bella chuckled softly as she stopped before the elevator and looked at Jack beside her. She didn¡¯t know whether Jack pampered his wife too much or was really afraid of her.


    "Why are you afraid of her too much, Jack? You even give her family the privilege to enter your company."


    Jack instantly turns to see her in the eyes with his complicated gaze.


    "It¡¯s hard for me to say whether you are spoiling or afraid of her..." Bella said casually. However, deep down in her heart, she felt envious of Jack¡¯s wife because that woman received the kind of attention she had never received from Tristan.


    Jack rubs his eyebrow and avoids eye contact with her.


    "Bella, you misunderstood something..."


    He did not do it for his wife but rather to teach his wife¡¯s family a lesson. If he hadn¡¯t done it, they would have remained a burden on their marriage. He must help his wife stop her family from taking advantage of her weakness.


    This is the opposite of Bella. Even though she sacrifices to help her family and willingly does the arranged marriage, in the end, she is brave enough to speak up and stop her family from forcing her again.


    "Huh!? Was I wrong? But why do I see you so afraid of your wife? I mean, tell her what her brother did to the company. I¡¯m sure she will understand. You don¡¯t have to worry about her throwing you out of your bed..."


    "Pft..." Leo, standing nearby, almost spat out upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    Bella¡¯s thought amused Leo. Jack¡¯s wife would not have the audacity to kick Jack out of his own house.


    Before Leo could say anything, he saw Jack send him an intense gaze. He immediately sealed his mouth shut and turned to see elsewhere, pretending he didn¡¯t hear their conversation.


    "Alright, my friend... It¡¯s hard to explain now. Let¡¯s just drop this matter," Jack smiled at Bella while gesturing for her to enter the elevator.


    When Bella saw Jack avoiding the topic, she stopped to ask again. She entered the elevator with Jack following behind.


    "I thought you would sleep upstairs? Why do you follow me now?"


    "I want to meet him?"


    Bella¡¯s expression slowly turned stiff. She pressed the open button. She didn¡¯t want this man to follow her to the lobby and run into Tristan.


    "Him?"


    "Your ex-stupid-husband!"


    Bella, "..."


    Imagine Jack and Tristan¡¯s meeting exhausted her. She remembered that Jack really hated Tristan. He suggested giving Tristan Sinclair a lesson a few times, but she always stopped him. And, if they met now, they might fight.


    "Leo told you?" Bella asked, narrowing her eyes towards Leo, who was standing outside.


    Jack shook his head, "Nope. But, Sam!"


    Bella could only scold Sam in her mind. She felt betrayed. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Jack, you don¡¯t have to meet him. He is nobody for me."


    "Ough! Poor Tristan Sinclair..." Jack says with his comical expression, holding his laughter. "Well, at least you didn¡¯t give that man a chance..."


    Bella, "..."


    "You¡¯re wasting my time, Jack. Please get out of this elevator," she said impatiently.


    Jack didn¡¯t pay attention to her words. He remained standing where he was and said, "Bella, let me remind you, he is your son¡¯s father... And I need to meet him!" He wants to meet Tristan Sinclair since Bella is starting to see him again ¡ª to warn him something.


    He was concerned that Tristan Sinclair might try to win Bella¡¯s heart again, especially after she appeared with Dax. He felt the need to warn Tristan Sinclair not to mess with Bella¡¯s heart again, regardless of how wealthy he was.

 Chapter 126: Almost Swayed

    Bella was left speechless as she looked at Jack¡¯s stubbornness.


    "Fine! But not now. I need to ask him first. It will be awkward if you suddenly meet him, right?"


    Jack frowned.


    "Alright, Mr. Foster... Get out of this elevator!"


    "Only if you allow me to meet Dax, too."


    "Deal!"


    Jack smiles widely and steps out. He slightly waves his hand at Bella as the elevator door slowly closes. He feels satisfied. Finally, he has a chance to meet Tristan Sinclair.


    ****


    Upon arriving at the lobby, Bella was surprised to see Tristan behind the wheel of his SUV. This was the first time he had picked her up himself without his driver.


    Bella quickened her step, fearing Tristan would open the car door for her.


    After Bella settled in her seat, she was surprised to see Tristan was no longer wearing the same clothes he had in the morning but a black casual slim-fit shirt and trousers of the same color.


    He appeared more casual, as if he was preparing to go on a date instead of returning from work.


    Seeing him like this, Bella¡¯s mind began to wonder if they were going on their first date. She smiles inwardly with her own thoughts.


    However, as if her inner soul warned her, Bella dismissed the thought as quickly as it came.


    "Are you satisfied enough to look at me like that, Bella?"


    Tristan¡¯s question snapped her back from her thought.


    Bella hurriedly turned her gaze and fastened her car seat belt, ignoring his cheap words.


    After a few seconds passed, when her awkwardness had lessened, Bella glanced at Tristan again to check his mood. She feared he would feel annoyed because he had waited almost two hours.


    When she noticed his calm expression, she felt relieved.


    "Sorry, Tristan, to make you wait."


    Bella feels terrible about making this big boss wait for her. If Tristan¡¯s employees or fans out there know about it, they are probably cursing her, right?


    Tristan glanced at her briefly without saying a word. He then starts the car engine and focuses on driving away from the Quantum Capital building.


    After the car hits the road, Tristan answers, "It¡¯s fine. You were worth the wait. You should know, Bella...waiting for you for two hours was fun for me." He said this in the most gentle tone that Bella had ever heard without a shred of sarcastic tone, which made her heart stir slightly. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella felt her heartbeat speed up. Hastily, she turned around and scolded herself for being almost swayed by his lines and gentleness.


    Gosh!


    She starts to know Tristan¡¯s new hobby of twisting her words into a cheese line to waver her. How shameless!


    Now, she must divert the conversation again, or this man will continue teasing her.


    After a few minutes, no one talked; finally, Bella, the one who asked him first, "You didn¡¯t go to the office?"


    He slightly smiled before answering, "I remember we got to the office together this morning, Bella. Have you forgotten!?"


    "What I¡¯m trying to say is... you didn¡¯t wear these clothes this morning."


    "Oh..." Tristan¡¯s smile blooms before he continues his sentence. "Thank you, Bella..." he said, feeling so happy because Bella had noticed his outfit this morning.


    He always tries to impress her, but she always gives him an uninteresting gaze when he picks her up in the morning. And her words earlier enough for him to know she is actually paying attention to him.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is he smiling like that?¡¯ Once again, Bella was confused as to why Tristan suddenly said thank you, and his smile looked like he had just found a treasure.


    "I have a penthouse on the top floor of Sinclair Tower. I change my clothes before I come to your office," he explained.


    Bella looked at him in surprise.


    "You also have a penthouse at the office?" She asked.


    Tristan nodded before saying apologetically.


    "Sorry, Bella. I¡¯ve never taken you to my office. Do you want to go there? Let¡¯s take Dax, too. I think he¡¯ll be happy to see my office..." He said excitedly.


    Tristan knew Dax was very interested in the business world and had mentioned several times that he wanted to see his office.


    Bella immediately rejected his idea. She couldn¡¯t possibly go there because his parents would know they were in contact again as soon as she set foot in the building.


    Hearing Bella¡¯s words, Tristan could only take a deep breath. He couldn¡¯t refute them because this was one of his biggest obstacles ¡ª his parents.


    Even though he had repeatedly told her not to be afraid or worried about them, Bella still refused. He found it difficult to convince Bella; she seemed traumatized to return to his arms because of them.


    ...


    Tristan tried to break the silence after seeing her looking gloomy.


    "Bella, earlier, you said you also have an apartment above your office?"


    "Yes. The company gave me a place to live with Dax and Noora, but my grandfather insisted we live with him."


    "I see," Tristan felt grateful to Isaac. He would never know Bella¡¯s address if they didn¡¯t live there because it was hard to find her personal info.


    "It would be best if Dax grew up in a house, not an apartment," he said.


    Bella chuckled at his words.


    "Well, you know what? That¡¯s what Grandpa told me. That¡¯s why I agreed..." Bella stopped as she remembered her grandfather¡¯s following sentence. "Dax also needs a male figure in his life." But, for some unknown reason, she couldn¡¯t tell Tristan this.


    Bella remained silent on the way home, fearing he would twist her words again.


    When their car entered the front yard, Bella saw Dax and Noora standing before the main door, waiting for them as usual.


    She didn¡¯t bother waiting for Tristan to turn off the engine; she immediately stepped out of the car and ran towards Dax.


    "I¡¯m sorry, baby... I felt terrible missing dinner with you."


    "It¡¯s okay, Mom. You don¡¯t break your promise," Dax said. Bella let go of her hug and looked into his eyes, confused.


    "I haven¡¯t had my dinner yet, Mom. I¡¯m waiting for you." Dax smiled faintly as he looked at his surprised mother. "And please stop being dramatic, mommy. This is only eight. Let¡¯s have dinner now." He then turned to see Tristan.


    "Dad, come join us..." Dax smiles at him.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but smile widely at his adorable son¡¯s efforts to get them back together.


    Noora, who saw Tristan smiling widely like the spring had come, walked towards him and whispered, "Master, you have to work hard to win my young miss¡¯ heart. Fighting, master!!"

 Chapter 127: The Night Before The Chaos *

    In a large luxurious bedroom in a private villa,


    The room felt steamy after a sexy woman with a man in his early thirties had sex non-stop from nightfall until midnight.


    Now, they feel exhausted. They took time to rest with their still naked bodies lying side by side.


    They smiled at each other, amused at their messy appearance, hair wet with sweat, lips slightly swollen from kissing as if they wanted to devour each other, and bodies covered in love bites and scratches.


    The woman pouts, looking at the man because he makes her entire body red with his love bite.


    "Do you want to start another round, babe!?" the man said as he tilted his body to face her.


    "Mmm... Mmm..."


    A soft moan escaped her lips as he started running his fingers over her hard pink nipple. She tried to hold back her arousal while pushing his hand away from her chest.


    "Andreas, please. I need to rest..." the woman said, her gaze meeting his sharp eyes.


    He groans and feels disappointed, but he knows this girl is exhausted.


    "Seriously, don¡¯t you feel tired?" She asked after they covered their bodies under the blanket.


    "Because you¡¯re hot enough to make me aroused, babe..." Andreas smiled while tickling her beautiful, dainty nose.


    The woman giggles.


    "How about your wife?" she asks casually, but her heart felt slightly tightened, jealous of that woman.


    "Laura!" Andreas snapped, narrowing his eyes at her eyes, "Can you stop talking about her when we¡¯re together, huh!? Please, babe..."


    Laura nods while smiling at him.


    "That woman will never be your match in bed, my darling. You¡¯re too hot to handle. You make my imagination run wild; just look at your lips... argh... You are irresistible."


    His hands slipped under the blanket and began to squeeze her breasts.


    "Mmmm... Andreas... Mmmm..." She can¡¯t hold herself. A series of moans escape her lips.


    Andreas smiled, seeing how red Laura¡¯s cheeks were now. He leaned closer to her and captured her full lips. He kissed her intensely until he felt her hands push him away.


    After their long and intense kiss, Laura gasped for air while lowering her gaze, too embarrassed to see him.


    Andreas no longer teased her. He pulled her into his arms, and they lay there without speaking.


    Before long,


    "Andreas, you promise me. You will get me another movie project this year?"


    "Of course, babe. I will give you anything you want as long as you stay by my side to warm my bed." Andreas chuckles when he feels her pinching his waist.


    Laura placed her hands on his waist and buried her head into his chest once more, feeling happy after hearing his promise.


    A few moments later, she said, "Andreas, I told you not to make a mark on my neck, but you still do that. Did you forget I had a photoshoot for jewelry ads the next day? How could I hide this? They will spot it..." She feels worried.


    "Babe, I¡¯m sorry... I can¡¯t hold myself to biting all over your body. Your skin to smooth and alluring..." Andreas said while pulling her tight.


    "Andreas, you¡ª" Laura can¡¯t finish her words. She could only smile secretly. Although this man was not as handsome as Tristan Sinclair, at least she could hold his heart. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile Tristan? The man was as cold as a glacier. He never looked at her, even though she tried many times to trap and seduce him, but she never succeeded.


    Laura begins to doubt Tristan¡¯s sexual orientation. The guy might be gay; that¡¯s why he was never attracted to her. After many failed to become Tristan¡¯s woman, Laura finally accepted Andreas Corby, her boss. And become his woman.


    She was willing to be Andreas Corby¡¯s lover because she needed him to advance her career in the industry without worrying about someone new, younger, and maybe prettier replacing her.


    Her mind goal was to become Stellar Entertainment¡¯s number-one actress as long as this man loved her. She didn¡¯t care about his status as a married man.


    "Don¡¯t worry, babe. I will ask my secretary to postpone the schedule. How many days do you need?" Andreas asked while placing his hand on her chin to make her look him in the eyes.


    "Two weeks!? Can you do that for me?"


    "That long? Alright... Alright... For you, I will do anything. No worries, babe." Andreas smiled, looking at her alluring lips. He feels his arousal again.


    "Yay! Thank you, Andreas... I love you so much," She kissed his cheek.


    "Babe... You have to be responsible for this one," He took her hand and placed it on his hard cock. "My little brother, he awake again..."


    Laura smiled and started rubbing his hard, swollen cock as they kissed.


    ****


    The next day.


    Andreas Corby, who looked fresh and in a good mood, entered the Quantum Capital building with his secretary, Kelly, walking beside him.


    He glances at her with a smile.


    Andreas secretly swallowed when he saw her tight white shirt with two buttons open wide, and he could peek at her black bra. When his eyes landed on her short, tight skirt, his mind started to imagine her naked body.


    Instantly, Andreas feels the urge to touch and feel the skin beneath her clothes.


    ¡¯This woman, why always seduce me using this kind of clothes?¡¯ He shook his head, trying to calm himself. Even though his babe, Laura, was able to fulfill his needs last night, seeing Kelly in the morning was enough to make his blood rush to certain parts of his body.


    "Sir..." Kelly gestured for Andreas to enter the elevator. Then, she followed him behind.


    Standing beside Andreas, Kelly worries about breaking the bad news to him early in the morning.


    Kelly tries to say something to him a few times, but seeing that he seems in a good mood, she dismisses the idea. She allows him to enjoy his morning before the storm.


    However, before their elevator reached the 18th floor, Kelly was shocked when Andreas stepped closer, and his face slowly leaned toward her.

 Chapter 128: Audacity! *

    Kelly was shocked when Andreas stepped closer, and his face slowly leaned toward her. Her heart pounded, but she didn¡¯t dare move. She only blinked to look at his gentle eyes so close to hers.


    Their faces were only a few inches apart. She could feel his warm breath tickling her face.


    "Kelly, did you perhaps issue a silent invitation for me to...sleep with you?" Andreas whispered in her ear, causing Kelly to flinch at his words.


    "S-Sir...wh-what do you mean?" Kelly¡¯s voice trembled. She was utterly nervous.


    This was not the first time his boss had done this to her¡ªspeaking too close and saying such vulgar words¡ªbut this was the first time he had done it in the elevator.


    Andreas smiled while meeting her nervous gaze. His hand raised to rub her blushing cheeks. He feels her soft and warm skin, enough to make his imagination run wild.


    "Kelly, your clothes are too tight for me to notice how tempting your body..." his hand slowly lowered to her neck but didn¡¯t stop there as he went below and only stopped to squeeze her breast gently.


    "S-Sir... What... what are you doing?" She glared at him, but somehow, she didn¡¯t dare to stop him. Her hands were clenched tightly.


    "Ogh... Kelly¡­ you have to be responsible for me! Now, I want to eat you..." Andreas closed his eyes, trying to imagine they were both wild on the bed.


    A few seconds later, he shook his head to try to dismiss the idea; however, when he opened his eyes, he saw her full red lips, again silently inviting him to eat her.


    "S-Sir¡­" Kelly couldn¡¯t finish her words as his lips sealed hers. Her heart beat faster when she felt his other hand slipping under her skirt. "Mmm¡­" a moan escaped her mouth without her realizing it. She tried to push him away, but Andreas¡¯ hands held her tightly.


    Ding!


    Andreas lips slowly left her lips. She gasped for air while shooting an angry gaze at him.


    "You taste good, Kelly," Andreas gently said, rubbing her corner lips with his thumps before continuing, "Follow me, let¡¯s finish this in my restroom..." he said and left the elevator.


    Kelly felt her blood run cold at what had just happened. Her boss had just sexually harassed her, and she couldn¡¯t stop it. Again!


    This made her mad at herself because she was afraid to do something to stop him. This man has the money and power to silence her if she reports him.


    "Kelly!?"


    She snapped, looking at Andreas, still waiting for her outside, holding the elevator door.


    "What are you waiting for? Hurry!" He said with his commanding tone.


    ...


    As soon as they entered his office, Andreas locked the door behind him, held her hand tightly, and led her to the bedroom in the corner. He pushed her on the bed, causing her body to slam on the soft bed.


    Andreas is not rushing to climb onto the bed to join her but staring at her frightening face, feeling amused.


    "Kelly, why do you look scared?" Andreas asked as he slowly removed his suit, his eyes never leaving her. After he placed his suit on the bed bench, he started to remove his shirt.


    "Sir, please don¡¯t do this to me..."


    "I thought you wanted this, Kelly? I see you wearing tight shirts every day, and your skirts are getting shorter by the day... Your clothes are torturing me, you know that, right?"


    Kelly was speechless.


    "You know, my wife is not in this country. I feel lonely here, yet you seduce me every day. How could I refuse you? You are so beautiful, and your body... Wow... So perfect..."


    After removing his white shirt, he started climbing on the bed to join her.


    "Please, Kelly... I need someone in my arms, and I¡¯m starting to like you, too. Don¡¯t worry about anything, okay?" He kissed her cheek gently.


    When Andreas saw her soften a little and didn¡¯t push him away again, he felt happy inside.


    "You don¡¯t need to think about working so hard, Kelly. I will give you everything, my darling. I will take care of you... How about it? Are you willing to be my woman?"


    Kelly felt confused when she heard his words, but looking at how sincere he was now, she couldn¡¯t help but nod¡ªtempted by his offer.


    "Oh dear, thank you..." Andreas kissed her lips while she started to undress her.


    ....


    After a few minutes, they finally left the room as if nothing had happened.


    Andreas sat on his executive chair and pulled her onto his lap.


    "Kelly, you can¡¯t meet other men because from now on, you are mine! Do you understand?"


    She nods while smiling.


    "Good, but make sure only us know this!"


    "Yes, s-sir..."


    "Take this card. You can buy anything you want." He kissed her lips once more before dismissing her.


    Kelly didn¡¯t leave. She was standing there, worried about telling him the terrible news after their sweet make-out session and making his mood drop to zero again.


    "What is it, dear? You still want to make¡ª"


    "No, sir..." Kelly interrupted him. "But, I need to inform you. This morning, I received an email from the legal department. You have been summoned to meet Mr. Daniel Sullivan, legal director of Quantum Capital, in his office."


    Instantly, Andreas¡¯ expression changed upon hearing that.


    "Why did a legal director have the audacity to summon me? Did he forget I¡¯m the COO* of this company?"


    "In his email, he said if you didn¡¯t show up at his office, it means you agree to show up in the court." Kelly¡¯s voice trailed off when she saw him smack his table.


    BAAM!


    Andreas flared in anger.


    "What actually happened? Why did he want to send me to court?" S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sir, I¡¯ve printed the email. You can read it..." Kelly pointed to the black folder on his desk.


    After several minutes of reading the report, Andreas felt his heart drop.


    "Why didn¡¯t you tell me the new CEO had started work?" Andreas directed his gaze at Kelly.


    "Sir, I only learned today from the legal department that she had been working for over a week..."


    "The new CEO is a she?" Andreas was surprised to hear that the new CEO was a woman.


    ***


    *COO = A chief operating officer is the corporate executive who oversees ongoing business operations within the company.

 Chapter 129: Teach Someone a Life Lesson (1)

    In the CEO¡¯s office of Quantum Capital on the 19th floor.


    Bella was busy reading reports on her computer screen when she heard a knock on the door.


    "Yes?" She responded without looking at the door.


    "Boss, someone asked to see you," Leo¡¯s voice came from the door, making Bella look at him with a frown. She saw Leo leaning on the door frame.


    "Who?"


    Bella remembered she didn¡¯t have any appointments today because she had a lot of files to read from their other subsidiary company.


    "Andreas Corby," Leo smiled when he saw her eyes widen. She appears suprised.


    "Why did he come to meet me? He supposed to meet Mr. Sullivan, right!?"


    "Yes, you¡¯re right. However, after he found out that you were the one who gave orders to the legal team, he¡¯s furious out there and insists on seeing you."


    "How troublesome!" Bella shook her head, feeling annoyed. "Leo, you know this person doesn¡¯t deserve to meet me, right?" She looked into Leo¡¯s eyes.


    "Indeed! But he¡¯s so mad now, throwing a tantrum because Sam stopped him. Not letting that piece of trash into your office..." Leo chuckled as he walked in and casually sat down on the sofa. "Boos, do you want to meet him or not?"


    Leo glanced at Bella, who walked to join him and then sat right before him.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer Leo. After quietly and relaxedly settling on the single sofa, she asked, "Where¡¯s Jack?"


    "Sleeping upstairs. Looks like he¡¯s tired after working late til the morning, online with another office in a faraway country with a very different time zone."


    "So? That¡¯s come within his responsibility. How dare he sleep while we¡¯re working now?" Bella said as she took her cell phone and dialed Jack¡¯s number.


    "Hello," Jack¡¯s hoarse voice came from the other end. "Bella...why did you wake me up so early?" He sounded annoyed.


    Bella chuckled at his words.


    "Geez...You should be embarrassed by the sunshine out there. It¡¯s almost lunchtime, boss."


    "Ugh! Bella, I got into my bed when the sun was just about to rise. I know, I know. It comes with the job. But please let me sleep for a few more minutes...hmm...?" Jack growls while burying his head under the pillow.


    "Well, I¡¯m sorry. You can¡¯t sleep now, boss. Your brother-in-law is making a scene in my office. Please come here immediately to look after him, or I¡¯ll call the police and throw him in jail!"


    Beep!


    Suddenly, the telephone connection was ended.


    "Damn! He hung up?" Bella stared at her cellphone screen in disbelief. Just before, she wanted to call him again. An incoming message pops up on her phone screen.


    [Jack: ] Yea, yea. I will come down immediately.


    [Jack: ] No need to confront him yourselves. Let me handle it.


    After Bella put her cell phone on the table, she narrowed her eyes at Leo, making him suspicious of her.


    "Bella, what are you planning to do about it now!? Why do I see from your eyes that you are about to make a cunning yet slick plan?"


    Bella curled her lips into a crafty smile, with an ungodly flame dancing happily in her eyes as she said, "You know me so well, Leo. Would you join me to teach someone a lesson!?"


    "Teach someone a lesson? Is this someone you mean... Andreas Corby?"


    "Yup! Let¡¯s teach him a life lesson before his brother-in-law comes and takes care of him." Bella said excitedly.


    "You¡ª" Leo was speechless when he heard her words. He vaguely heard Jack begging her not to do anything earlier. But now she has an idea to prank Andreas Corby.


    "Come on, Leo... What are you afraid of? Jack will understand if he knows what Andreas Scum Corby does. He will even reward us if he knows... Trust me!"


    Leo was tempted to join her plot after hearing the word "reward."


    "Should I help with your plan, Bella?" He asked while looking at her in the eyes.


    "You should, Leo!! You know what a jerk he is, right!?" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was disgusted with Andreas Corby after finding out from Sam¡¯s investigation that the man was a womanizer with a terrible attitude toward women. He already has a legal wife, but everyone knows he is still looking for another woman to be his companion. He seemed to be building his harem, manipulating women with his romances in every city and every country he visited.


    How disgusting!


    After a few moments of thinking, finally, Leo agreed.


    "Okay, count me in..."


    Leo needed to vent his annoyance after Jack ruined his peaceful life. Since Jack arrived in this city, he could not rest at night; Jack made him work too and included him in every online meeting. He feels exhausted. Last night, he could only sleep for two hours.


    Bella smiled happily when she saw Leo leave the room to invite Andreas to meet her. She also stood up from her seat and walked towards her desk, taking a brown envelope from one of the drawers.


    A smile blooms on her lips while looking at the brown envelope in her hand.


    ¡¯Andreas Scum Corby, you will soon meet your end after what you did to your wife...¡¯ Bella muttered to herself and returned to the seating area.


    However, before Bella could sit down, she saw Leo had returned with a tall, large man following him. She knew the man was Andreas Corby.


    Bella was taken aback when she saw Andreas Corby in person because he looked different from the picture she had seen. He had a square-shaped face and short, curly brown hair. He looked decent in his light gray suit, but his expression revealed anger when he entered her office.


    "Boss, this¡ª" Leo¡¯s sentence suddenly stopped when Andreas walked past him and stood just a few steps from Bella.


    "You are the newly appointed CEO. Listen, I don¡¯t care how you become CEO of Quantum Capital..." said Andreas in an annoyed and angry tone. "You have to remember that you are nothing compared to me! You have to know how to position yourself. How dare you ask the legal team to question my work?"


    Bella, "...."

 Chapter 130: Teach Someone a Life Lesson (2)

    Sam was shocked by Andreas¡¯ loud voice, which could be heard outside the room. He immediately stood up to confront Andreas for cursing at his boss.


    But Bella shook her head slightly, gesturing to Sam not to do anything. After he saw Sam stop and stand behind, she walked toward the seating area, ignoring the fuming Andreas Corby.


    "Leo, please have a seat." Bella gently smiled at him.


    Then Bella turns her gaze at Andreas Corby. She didn¡¯t rush to ask him but eyed him with obvious disgust.


    When she notices him even more annoyance, she can¡¯t help but feel joy. With an innocent tone, she asks him, "I¡¯m sorry. But who are you? Do I know you, sir!?"


    Andreas, "...."


    Leo, who heard Bella¡¯s question, tried not to make any sound. He held back his laughter, trying to maintain his deadpan expression.


    Before Andreas could answer, Bella raised her hand to stop him from speaking.


    "Agh! I remember you now..." she said with a half smile before continuing. "You must be the CEO of Stellar Entertainment and COO of Quantum Capital, right?" S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella paused to allow him to confirm his status with a proud and disdainful expression.


    She held back her laughter, looking at his expression. While in her heart, she said, ¡¯Enjoy your proud face, Mr. Corby, before I destroy your dignity!¡¯


    "Ah, yes... I remember you now. You must be Mr. Andreas Corby. You are the one who caused the downfall of this company, wasn¡¯t it?"


    Bella said calmly and even more casually now, but her words almost made Andreas choke. He was taken aback by her straightforward words, which pierced his heart.


    Andreas Corby can¡¯t refute Bella¡¯s words. Because what she said is indeed a fact.


    ¡¯Damn it! Who is this woman? How dare she talk to me like this? Even my brother-in-law, the company¡¯s owner, never dared speak sharply to me.¡¯ Andreas couldn¡¯t help but vent his anger in his mind while glaring at her as if he wanted to punish her through his sharp gaze.


    "Pft!" Leo almost choked when he heard Bella¡¯s sharp tongue. He held back his laughter and maintained his deadpan expression while sitting quietly, listening to her every word teaching this scum, Andreas Corby.


    Bella didn¡¯t stop. She enjoys torturing this scum with her verbal punishment.


    "Mr. Corby, you have led this company for seven years, but I have never heard of this company making any significant profit. Every year, you only get the minimum profit target the head office sets for you. This makes me curious... What the hell are you doing here!? Work hard?


    or... you just play hard?"


    Despite Bella¡¯s casual speech, Andreas felt like this woman had just slapped him really, really hard on the face. She didn¡¯t just figuratively slap him once but from back to back, causing his blood to rush down under his face skin; he was so upset.


    Andreas clenched his hands into fists, holding back his anger. He opened his mouth to refute her words, but her sharp words again silenced him.


    "I can¡¯t believe you still have a face and dignity to come here to meet me, Mr. Corby. Well, as you know, if not for this gentleman beside me who convinced me to meet you, I wouldn¡¯t give you a chance to see me now."


    Andreas, "..."


    "So, tell me. Why do you want to meet me?"


    "You... what¡ª" Andreas¡¯ voice traill off again when Bella interrupted him.


    "Ah, I¡¯m sorry. Where are my manners¡­please have a seat, Mr. Corby." She grinned.


    Bella gestures for Andreas to sit on the empty sofa opposite her.


    Andreas stared at the woman before him. He silently swallowed to witness her goddess-like face. Although he wanted to add her to the list of women who could warm his bed, considering how sharp her tongue was, he rejected the idea.


    Now, he is curious about where Jack found this sharp-tongued and shameless woman!?


    Since he entered this room, this woman treated him like he was nothing¡ªa mere company employee without proper respect.


    In his seven years of working at this company, no one had ever dared to treat him like this. This was the first time.


    ¡¯What a stupid woman. Did this woman know my identity as the brother-in-law of the owner of this company?¡¯ Andreas arrogantly wonders.


    Although Andreas was annoyed and angry with the woman, he followed her orders and sat across from her. He gritted his teeth and looked her in the eye, attempting to calm his mind and heart.


    However, when he tried to speak, everything he wanted to say couldn¡¯t escape his lips. How frustrating!


    ...


    After a long pause, Bella was the first to speak.


    "Why are you silent now, Mr. Corby? You said you wanted to speak to me. Either speak now or leave. I¡¯m busy and don¡¯t have much free time like you."


    "Did you know who I am?"


    "You are Andreas Corby, right?" she asked with a pretended confused expression.


    "No. I mean, did you know that the owner of the RDF Group, this company, is my brother-in-law?" Andreas asked. Before Bella could answer, he continued, "Well, I know you have high standards to achieve your goal of bringing this company to its profit targets, but¡ª"


    Andreas¡¯s voice trailed off when he saw her raise her hand again to stop him from speaking. He cursed her inwardly.


    "Why the hell are you stopping me again?"


    "Because you¡¯re talking nonsense, Mr. Corby," Bella was starting to get bored talking to this brainless man. "Have you heard that RDF Group has three owners?"


    A frown appeared on Andreas¡¯s face, and he seemed to be in deep thought for a moment. He had heard that three people founded RDF Group, but he knew nothing about its owner¡¯s identity.


    "Mr. Corby, with your silence, I assume you don¡¯t know about that. Well, let me tell you something. Actually, you are talking to one of the owners of the RDF Group right now..." Bella said casually, but Andreas felt like lightning just shaking his head.


    "Y-You...One of the founders of RDF Group?"

 Chapter 131: Teach Someone a Life Lesson (3)

    "Y-You... one of the founders of RDF Group?" Andreas Corby asked in shock. He never imagined that this woman was one of the founders of RDF Groups.


    Bella didn¡¯t reply. She could only smile half-heartedly. She had already stated that she was one of the founders and was bold enough to fire him from his executive position in this company. Only a fool would not believe her words now.


    However,


    Bella actually speaks to one of the fool men.


    Andreas Corby didn¡¯t believe her at all.


    "Bwahaha¡­"


    A sudden, booming laugh echoed through the room, startling Bella and Leo. They exchanged surprised glances as Andreas began to laugh.


    "You think I would believe you?" Andreas said, shaking his head. "Ms. Donovan, you must remember what you did to me today. I¡¯m willing to pay you a hundred times over for the humiliation you caused me," he said in a cold tone that seemed to lower the temperature around him.


    Nevertheless, Bella didn¡¯t flinch or feel intimidated by his words. She even ignores Andreas Corby¡¯s sharp gaze as she turns to look at Leo beside her.


    Bella leaned closer to Leo.


    "Do you think this trash is delusional and under pressure!? Is that why he foolishly tried to deny the facts and refuses to believe me?" she whispered, loud enough for Andreas Corby to hear. A clear line appeared on Andreas¡¯ forehead as he listened to her.


    ¡¯Fuck! This woman calls me trash!?¡¯ Andreas held his anger while clenched his fist. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Still, Bella and Leo ignore him.


    Leo whispered back to Bella, "Yeah, I guess so... I can¡¯t believe Jack put this scum of society in charge of Quantum Capital in this country."


    Bella nods. She agrees with him.


    "I know, right!?" She let out a deep sigh while wearing a fake-gloomy expression.


    After a few seconds, silence hung in the air. Bella continued, "You know what, Leo... If I had known from the start, Jack would have appointed this piece of trash to handle this branch. I will refuse to accept his idea of establishing Quantum Capital in this country."


    Leo also took a deep sigh, following Bella. From the corner of his eye, he could catch Andreas¡¯ anxiety as he watched them, Making Leo even more enthusiastic about following Bella¡¯s plan to crush Andreas.


    "Well, Boss... You could impeach Mr. Jack Foster from his CEO position; you have that power. Besides, this is not something that should be allowed. He has abused his position to put his incapable family in the company..."


    Bella closed her mouth, pretending to be suprised to hear Leo¡¯s idea.


    "Oh my God, Leo, you are such a brilliant man! I feel so lucky to have you as my head secretary. I¡¯m glad you chose me instead of Jack." Bella gently punches Leo¡¯s shoulder to show Andreas how happy she is with Leo¡¯s idea.


    "Hahaha..." Leo waved his hand while laughing. e on, Boss. You know my reason for refusing to continue to work for Jack Foster¡¯s assistant, right?"


    Andreas Corby was surprised that this man had worked for Jack. He attempted to recollect whether he had seen him in the main office, but his memory failed him. He could only recall that Jack¡¯s assistant was named Mr. Smith, and he had never heard his first name.


    "I know... I know..." Bella nodded, even though she didn¡¯t know what Leo meant. She only pretends to know, which makes Andreas even more frightened to hear their conversation.


    Bella is in a good mood when she notices Andreas¡¯ expression, which starts to change from pride to confusion to terror.


    She continues to teach him,


    "As you said, I can remove Jack from his position as CEO of the RDF Group and use this matter as strong evidence to get him dishonorably fired from the company. Yes! I will definitely expel him from the RDF Group and make sure he pays the total loss caused to his brother-in-law."


    Bella smiled at Andreas, saying, "Mr. Corby, I must thank you. Because of you, I have a reason to expel Jack Foster, your brother-in-law, from the company. Thank you, sir..."


    Andreas was shocked, but once again, he doubted this woman. Before he said something, he saw the man beside her speak.


    "I will gather all the evidence for you," Leo said with a devilish smile while glancing at Andreas.


    "Thank you, Leo..."


    Leo spoke seriously, "Boss, there¡¯s no need to thank me. I am just doing my job. Moreover, I believe this is the right time for Jack Foster to step down from his position." He tried his best to hold his laughter inside.


    Andreas, "...."


    He was left speechless as the two ignored him. And their serious conversation started to worry him.


    ¡¯No... No... They both must be bluffing. They¡¯re there to make me worry, right?¡¯ Andreas wonders.


    Andreas couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    "Stop ignoring me! You two are just pretending to confuse me. Listen, I¡¯m not going to waste my time here." He shouted, then stood up from his seat.


    Andreas¡¯ eyes fell on Bella before he continued his stern warning.


    "Ms. Donovan, you better clear your desk because you will soon lose your position!"


    With a disdainful expression, Andreas turned around to walk to the door.


    However, before stepping, he was shocked to see a figure standing at the door.


    "Brother-in-law..." Andreas was surprised to see Jack standing near the door, "Since when were you there? No... I mean, when did you arrive in this country? Why didn¡¯t you tell me?" he asked as he walked towards him with a wide smile.


    Jack nodded at Andreas. However, he didn¡¯t say anything to him; he completely ignored him as he walked in and joined Bella in the seating area.


    His actions shocked Andreas. He turned to look at Jack with his brows furrowed, feeling confused.


    Earlier, unbeknownst to Bella and Leo, Jack had been standing in the corner with Sam for a few minutes. He overheard Bella and Leo¡¯s conversation and was aware of their intentions.


    Feeling in a good mood, Jack wants to join forces with them to expel his troublesome brother-in-law from the company.

 Chapter 132: Frightened Laura Kiels

    In a luxury Villa.


    Laura Kiels was angry when her phone rang during her sleep.


    When Laura saw that her manager, Robert, was calling her, she picked up the phone and expressed frustration.


    She lazily asked, "Why are you calling me now?" while lying on the bed with her eyes closed.


    Robert was shocked to hear Laura¡¯s still hoarse voice.


    "Laura, are you still in bed? Did you forget that today we must shoot your jewelry commercial?" He asked in disbelief.


    He had been waiting for her for what felt like an eternity, but she was nowhere to be seen. The worry in his heart grew, fearing that Laura might once again forget about her packed schedule for the day.


    "Damn you, Robert! Do your job properly! How dare you not know that today¡¯s commercial shooting was canceled!?" Laura grumbled irritably.


    "Wha-What!?"


    Robert was surprised to hear that. Since when did such information exist? Nobody had told him about it, so how could he know?


    "Gosh, Robert!! You didn¡¯t know that?" Laura raised her voice, irritated by her manager¡¯s stupid reaction.


    "I didn¡¯t know," Robert answered quickly. He had not received any messages from their office or the client. "Laura, who told you the schedule was canceled today?" he asked, confused.


    A few minutes ago, he received a message from the jewelry company¡¯s manager confirming that today¡¯s schedule had not been rescheduled. The jewelry company manager reminded him not to be late because their boss would come to watch the filming process.


    Instantly, Laura¡¯s eyes, which had been closed since receiving the phone call¡ªshe was still sleepy after last night Andreas forced her to make love until dawn¡ªopened wide.


    As she sat on the edge of the bed, Laura wondered whether Andreas had forgotten to postpone the filming process.


    Robert urgently called out to Laura, "Are you still there? We only have 15 minutes to get to the filming location. Hurry!"


    "Robert, I can¡¯t go now. I¡ª" Laura can¡¯t continue her sentence. She can¡¯t tell him what exactly happened, right?


    "What do you mean!?"


    "I need to make a call. I will call you back in a few minutes¡ª"


    Beep!


    Laura quickly ended the call, not waiting for Robert¡¯s response.


    While on her way to the bathroom, Laura dialed Andreas¡¯ phone number to remind him to cancel today¡¯s filming. She can¡¯t go to the location now because her body is full of his love bites.


    Standing in front of the mirror and seeing her smooth white skin, which now looked red all over her upper body, annoyed her. She feels regret for allowing Andreas to do that.


    "Why didn¡¯t he pick up? Is he busy?" she muttered as she returned to the bedroom.


    After several calls, the result was still the same ¡ª Andreas didn¡¯t pick up her phone. This started to annoy her.


    She decides to send him a text, hoping he will read it and call her back.


    [Laura] Andreas, please call me ASAP!


    [Laura] This is urgent about the jewelry filming schedule.


    After sending it and not getting any response, she typed another text.


    [Laura] You said you would postpone the filming schedule. But why did Robert tell the schedule is still fixed today?


    She stared at her cell phone for a while, waiting for Andreas to answer. Nevertheless, he did not answer.


    "Ugh! Andreas, seriously?"


    Laura sighed, annoyed, and threw her cell phone on the bed. She paced back and forth, biting her nails in nervousness.


    She occasionally glanced at her cell phone on the bed. Hoping Andreas reply her text.


    After several minutes passed, the phone finally rang. Laura ran to the bed and grabbed her cell phone. However, when she saw Robert¡¯s name written on the phone screen, her expression turned dark again.


    "Are you done? Please hurry up..." Robert¡¯s impatient voice sounded again, making Laura even more nervous. "We are late now, Laura. You still remember who our client is now, right!?"


    Laura sat on the edge of the bed, feeling her heart drop at Robert¡¯s words.


    She ran her hand through her hair, feeling angry and confused at the same time. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯What should I do now?¡¯


    Laura is aware of the theme of today¡¯s filming. She will wear a dress with a low neckline to showcase a diamond necklace.


    However, she has love bites on her neck and chest, which would not be suitable for the shoot. The makeup team would be visibly annoyed if they found out about them.


    She also has to shoot with a male actor, which would be embarrassing if the actor knew about her condition.


    What also worries her is if someone leaks this matter and circulates it on social media. It will make her name a trending topic again¡ªShe was tired of being bullied by netizens.


    "I know. But I can¡¯t go now, Robert... Please help to cancel the filming schedule."


    "Okay, I understand. If you¡¯re not feeling well, they may be able to comprehend the situation. I¡¯ll reach out to them and request to reschedule your filming schedule," Robert explained.


    "However, Laura, please remember that if you claim to be sick, you¡¯ll need to go to the hospital. If not, they won¡¯t believe you, and you may face legal consequences for breaching the contract ¡ª not showing up for the filming schedule." Robert¡¯s words are enough to make Laura even more worried.


    She gritted her teeth.


    "Robert, I am seriously ill and having an allergic reaction. My whole body is red. How can I film in this condition?"


    He was surprised to learn that Laura had allergies, which was new to him after managing her for several years.


    "Laura, since when have you had allergies?" Robert asked, suspicious that this girl was making it up.


    Laura was speechless.


    ¡¯Can you just believe it!?¡¯ She scolds Robert in her mind.


    Just as she was about to say something to Robert, Laura suddenly remembered someone who could help her.


    "Robert, give me 5 minutes more¡ª"


    Beep!


    Laura immediately dialed the person¡¯s telephone number, biting her nails tensely while waiting for the call to connect.

 Chapter 133: Plead

    Laura immediately dialed the person¡¯s telephone number, biting her nails tensely while waiting for the call to connect.


    "Kelly! Oh, thank goodness you finally picked up," Laura was relieved to hear Kelly¡¯s voice from the other end. "It¡¯s me, Laura. Can you give this phone to Andreas?" she asked hastily.


    After hearing Laura Kiels, Kelly wasn¡¯t happy with how she called their boss¡¯ first name. She knew they had a special relationship, but how could she casually call him that?


    "Excuse me, Miss Laura, did you mean Mr. Corby?"


    Laura didn¡¯t bother answering Kelly¡¯s question. Instead, she said, "Kelly, don¡¯t ask. Just give him your phone! I need to talk to him now. This is very important..."


    Kelly¡¯s expression became even grimmer upon hearing Kelly¡¯s bossy request.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Miss Laura, but you can not talk to Mr. Corby now. He is in the middle of a meeting," Kelly said.


    Kelly was worried now. Her furious boss had been upstairs for almost an hour but had not returned. He didn¡¯t even bring his cell phone, too angry to learn that the newly appointed CEO had tried to fire him from the company.


    "Listen, Kelly... this is very important. If you don¡¯t give this cell phone to Andreas, we will most likely face a big lawsuit," said Laura irritably. "Now, take this damn cell phone to Andreas. Now!"


    "Miss Laura, even though I want to give this cell phone to him, I can¡¯t..." Kelly said calmly, holding back her annoyance at hearing Laura curse.


    "What do you mean? Why can¡¯t he take my calls?" Laura stopped in her tracks and froze, annoyed by Kelly¡¯s words.


    Kelly sighed silently as her patience began to wear thin while talking to Laura Kiels. If only this woman were not their number one actress, she would hang up the phone.


    "Right now, Mr. Corby is in a meeting with the new CEO of Quantum Capital, so, Miss Laura, I can¡¯t disturb them just because you ask..." She said politely, even though inwardly, she was starting to curse her.


    "Argh!! Fine¡­ Fine¡­ But you have to tell him that S Jewelry might sue us if he doesn¡¯t clean up the mess he made!" After ending the call with frustration, Laura slammed her phone onto the bed. Then, she storms to the bathroom, fuming. She decides to head into the office to meet with Andreas and discuss this matter.


    Kelly was speechless. She looks at her cell phone screen, which has now turned dark.


    "Why would SJ sue us?" She muttered while placing her cell phone on the desk and continuing to read some files on her laptop, ignoring Laura¡¯s warning.


    ****


    While at Bella¡¯s office.


    The tension in the room grew intense upon Jack¡¯s arrival, and he joined in on the silly plot Bella and Leo had created and started.


    He was immersed in his role as someone who would receive a verdict from Bella. Jack settles on the single sofa opposite Bella and Leo.


    After Jack confirmed that his brother-in-law, Andreas, was looking at them, an evil smile appeared on Jack¡¯s lips before he started to speak.


    "Bella, please, I beg you to forget about this. I know that my family is causing problems for this company, but as a friend, can you just let this go? Please don¡¯t send him to prison or sue him for anything..." Jack¡¯s voice sounded sincere as he pleaded.


    Hearing Jack¡¯s pleading shocked Andreas. He turned his gaze away from Jack and toward the new CEO, Arabella Donovan.


    Since entering this room, only this was the first time Andreas realized the woman¡¯s last name was Donovan. He remembered Jack once telling him that the name of his company, RDF, was actually the last name of its founder.


    Instantly, Andreas feels his throat go dry; he feels suffocated.


    ¡¯So, this woman wasn¡¯t lying all along? She plans to fire Jack Foster from his position because of me!?¡¯


    Andreas became even more afraid when he realized that his brother-in-law would lose his position because of him.


    Now, Andreas felt like all his muscles were betraying him. He almost fell to the floor, unable to support himself. He grabbed a nearby couch and took his seat without being asked.


    He looks at Jack, then at Bella, but they completely ignore him.


    No one looks at him.


    No one talks to him.


    But what they talk about directly hits him in the heart. They are now discussing his punishment, which includes imprisonment and paying back the embezzled money.


    Just the thought of the punishment was enough to make him feel as if his soul had left him.


    Andreas¡¯ hands started to shake with worry. He turned to Jack, who was still trying to convince Bella to forgive him and give him leniency. It hurt his heart to see Jack do that for him.


    Now, there is only guilt left in his heart because he abused his brother-in-law¡¯s trust.


    Andreas¡¯ eyes feel blurry as he says, "B-Brother-In-Law¡ª"


    However, before Andreas could finish his words, Jack glared at him and shouted, "Shut up, Andreas!!" he snapped, sharply looking at him.


    Andreas looks frighteningly pale and red-eyed, amusing Jack.


    ¡¯What the fuck! This trash, already cry!?¡¯ Jack can¡¯t believe what he saw. He tries to maintain his angry expression while holding his laugh inwardly. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After Jack saw Andreas shut his mouth entirely and lowered his head, avoiding his gaze, he turned to look at Bella again.


    Jack smiled at her through his gaze this time, but it was only for a moment. He wanted to let Bella know that what she was doing now was fantastic¡ªshe succeeded in teaching this stupid Andreas Corby a lesson.


    Jack sighed deeply and spoke in a miserable voice, "Bella, I¡¯ll accept whatever you want. Just tell me..."


    Bella holds back her laugh and looks at Andreas.


    Having accomplished her goal, she decides to stop to let Andreas know that his power and arrogance are his greatest weaknesses¡ªhe is nothing without Jack¡¯s help.


    Bella remained calm and composed as she said, "Jack, we are best friends. But for business, that¡¯s a different story."


    "I understand, Bella¡ª"

 Chapter 134: Punishment

    She remained calm and composed as she said, "Jack, we are best friends. But for business, that¡¯s a different story."


    "I understand, Bella¡ª" Jack said faintly.


    "What I want is simple. I have two choices for you..." Bella paused to take a deep breath. She appears to feel bad for stating her punishment, but inwardly, she struggles to hold on to her laughter.


    Bella never imagined that acting like this would be so exhausting.


    She now admires actors and actresses for their ability to portray various emotions and roles perfectly in movies and dramas.


    While her? She acted for only a few minutes, and her energy was almost drained.


    "Please tell me what your decision is..." Jack said calmly.


    However, Bella noticed that Jack held back his laughter and urged her to speak quickly; otherwise, they would be caught.


    Bella shifted her gaze to Andreas. She saw him still lowering his head, lost in thought about his fate. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She looked at Jack again before saying, "First, fire him from his position and have him pay every penny for everything he took from the company. If you do that, he doesn¡¯t have to go to jail..."


    Andreas was shocked to hear that. He slowly raised his head, looking at Bella in horror. He never imagined this beauty would have such a cruel way to punish him.


    Now, Andreas can only pray that the woman will give him a lighter choice in option number two. He would accept it as long as he didn¡¯t have to go to jail, return the money in full, or have his brother-in-law fired from the CEO position.


    "Second, he didn¡¯t have to pay anything but went to jail. And you, as the person who brought him into the company, should resign, and you will never be involved in RDF Group again."


    Andreas nearly vomited blood upon hearing her second option. Why did both of her choices carry the same weight in his punishment?


    ¡¯Damn, this woman!!¡¯ Andreas can¡¯t help but scold her in his mind. He wanted to voice his opinion, but he couldn¡¯t say anything. He could only swallow hard and wait for his brother-in-law¡¯s decision.


    Bella fixed her gaze on Jack.


    "Alright, that¡¯s my final offer to you, Jack. You decide," she said casually, yet her voice was as cold as ice.


    "I choose number one," Jack said without hesitation.


    Andreas Corby feels like lightning just struck his head hearing his final verdict.


    ****


    Sinclair Tower.


    Tristan was engrossed in the document he was signing when Dylan startled him with a sudden knock on the door.


    "Speak!" Tristan quickly glances at him before he returns his attention to the document.


    "Boss, I have to tell you something very important..." Dylan came in and sat in the chair before Tristan¡¯s desk. He felt excited about what he had just found out.


    "What¡¯s that?" Tristan asked as he placed his pen on the table and looked at Dylan curiously.


    "Today, there was supposed to be an advertising shoot for S Jewelry. Boss, I believe you already know that your mother, Ms. Sinclair, has selected Laura Kiels as their new brand ambassador..." Dylan paused, observing Tristan¡¯s reaction.


    When he noticed Tristan¡¯s expression darken, he silently swallowed.


    ¡¯Did I come at the wrong time?¡¯ Dylan wondered as he prepared to light another flame.


    "Dylan, since when did I manage that small subsidiary?" Tristan took a deep breath and leaned back in his CEO chair. His eyes were still fixed on Dylan.


    He continued, "My parents manage the company. I didn¡¯t care what they were doing as long as they didn¡¯t tarnish the Sinclair Group name. And I¡¯m not interested in knowing about that woman. So, please stop talking about her in front of me!"


    Even though his relationship with Bella wasn¡¯t what he wanted¡ªBella still rejected him whenever he asked her to return to him¡ªhe was grateful for their closeness. He could be her driver. He can spend his time with her and their son every weekend.


    However, if Bella heard about that woman again, he feared Bella would be jealous.


    "Boss, I understand, but please hear me first..."


    "Make it short. I have to go to Bella¡¯s office soon. I don¡¯t have much time to hear your gossip!"


    "That woman didn¡¯t show up at the filming location. I heard from one of my trustworthy sources... SJ¡¯s marketing director was fuming because of that woman¡¯s attitude. He wanted to sue her and her company, Stellar Entertainment. But, your mother, stop him..."


    As soon as he heard about Stellar Entertainment, Tristan was immediately interested in hearing the complete report on this case.


    "Mhm¡­.okay, go on..." Tristan said.


    "And what surprised me was that I just learned from our spies..." Dylan smiled, thinking about Max, who told him about what happened at Quantum Capital. "Ms. Bella just made a move. You know what I mean, right, boss?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer; he just nodded. He knew that Bella was planning to fire Laura Kiels. Since then, he has asked Max to monitor what is happening at Quantum Capital to make sure no one could harm her if she made a move like this.


    "Boss, The COO of Quantum Capital and the CEO of Stellar Entertainment, Mr. Andreas Corby, resigned this noon..." Dylan continued. When he saw his boss smile happily, he chuckled inwardly.


    Tristan took some time before reacting to Dylan¡¯s news, carefully considering what he had just heard.


    Before long, he gazes at Dylan again.


    "Are you sure Andreas Corby resigned because of Bella?"


    Tristan still had doubts. Because what he heard was that Bella was only going to fire Laura. She didn¡¯t mention that she would also fire Andreas Corby.


    Dylan immediately shook his head.


    "Boss, I cannot confirm it, but based on my observations of the current situation, there seems to be a connection between them," Dylan paused while he took his cellphone.


    "I think you should check this out, boss..." He offers his cell phone to Tristan.


    Tristan¡¯s expression changed abruptly when he caught sight of Dylan¡¯s cellphone screen.

 Chapter 135: A Chance to Help Her

    Tristan¡¯s expression changed abruptly when he caught sight of Dylan¡¯s cellphone screen.


    After a glance, he returned Dylan¡¯s cell phone, "Ask Max to send the picture and video to my mother. Make sure to use her number," he ordered.


    "Her number? So, you want that woman to send her own videos and photos to your mother accidentally?" Dylan asked, shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s plan.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer him. Instead, he asked, "Do I have to explain that?"


    "Yes, Boss! I will do it now¡ª" Dylan¡¯s voice trailed off as something crossed his mind.


    "What are you waiting for? You can go now."


    "Boss, did you forget something?"


    "What is it?" A thin line appears on Tristan¡¯s forehead, which is enough to show his curiosity.


    "This is your chance to completely help your wife crush that woman. If you do good, Ms. Bella might waver to you¡­" Dylan said excitedly when he saw the light in Tristan¡¯s eyes shine. "I¡¯ll excuse myself now. Good luck, Boss!"


    Tristan smiled as Dylan left the room, knowing he was right. This was the perfect opportunity to help Bella get rid of Laura Kiels from Stellar Entertainment.


    Instantly, countless ideas appeared in his mind. He couldn¡¯t wait to share this with Bella.


    Tristan sped up his work.


    A few minutes later, Tristan was driving to the Quantum Capital building in his car. He arrived thirty minutes earlier than usual.


    Tristan was tempted to call her but resisted the urge to wait.


    He needed to meet Bella in person to ensure she was in the mood to talk. He didn¡¯t want to ruin her seemingly good mood. This was a rare opportunity to help her. And the chance of successfully helping her was tremendous.


    ...


    While inside the Quantum Capital building.


    Bella had just finished her work. She plans to prepare herself to go home, but not long after, Jack and Leo come to her office.


    "Bella, remember what you promised me," Jack said as he leaned against the door frame and narrowed his eyes at her.


    After Bella replaces her high heels with sneakers, she frowns and looks at Jack, confused about what he is trying to say.


    "Promise? What promise?"


    Leo laughed instantly, hearing Bella¡¯s words. He slightly shook his head while patting Jack¡¯s shoulder.


    "Jack, now you believe me, right? My Boss will not remember trivial things like that."


    Jack was speechless. His eyes were still on Bella, and his expression looked like a big word had been written on his forehead, "Seriously!"


    When Bella saw Jack¡¯s displeased look, she smiled as she approached them.


    "Jack, I didn¡¯t forget¡­ I just thought you would fly back to your wife right away because you had already achieved your plan to fire your Brother-in-law using my hands..." Bella said in a pitiful tone.


    When she saw that he was about to say something, she took a deep breath before continuing, "Boss, you know what? You should reward me with something nice for my achievement. I cleaned up your mess just a few days after starting work in this company." She grinned and then turned her gaze towards Leo.


    "Right, Leo? Don¡¯t you think you and I should be awarded for this achievement?" She asked casually, but Jack, who heard that, felt like getting a jab from her.


    Leo agrees with Bella and says, "Well, I don¡¯t need anything, but you deserved it. And, if I¡¯m Jack, I¡¯ll give you a generous present, Bella..."


    Jack, "...."


    Instantly, Jack felt his heart tingling and sour hearing Leo¡¯s remark.


    "You traitor, Leo! Did you know Bella took so much from me to bring her back to the company?" Jack wanted to say that but feared Bella would twist his words.


    So, he remained calm. He didn¡¯t want to fall into their trap. Not again!


    "Well, that¡¯s why I didn¡¯t bring it up again...you want to meet with Tristan and Dax..." Bella continued her words when she looked at Jack, who said nothing.


    The corner of Jack¡¯s lips lifted into a faint smile as he heard her words.


    "Too bad I can¡¯t meet them because I will fly back tomorrow," Jack said in his gloomy tone.


    However, a second later, Jack clapped his hands and smiled widely before saying, "But... Let¡¯s have dinner tonight to celebrate your success in firing my scum brother-in-law. As a reward for your help, you can choose an expensive restaurant in the city. I will also pay for all the expenses as a gift for you and Leo."


    Bella, "...."


    Leo, "...." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This is just a small token of appreciation for your hard work," Jack said. He saw them in return before continuing, "Come on... there¡¯s no need to thank me!"


    Bella was left speechless. Jack seemed to have learned a lot today, and she could only inwardly laugh at her failed plan to prank him.


    "Deal! But I need to call someone¡­" Bella said as she walked towards the elevator, and the two men walked between her.


    Bella tries to call Tristan. She hoped he had not yet left his office.


    He picked up the phone on the first ring, surprising her with his quick response.


    "Hi, Bella..." Tristan¡¯s cheerful voice was heard on the other end.


    They all step into the elevator when Bella apologizes to Tristan, saying that she has an important meeting and he should go home first. She didn¡¯t entirely tell the truth that she would go to dinner with Leo and Jack.


    "Are you still in your office?" Bella asks when she doesn¡¯t hear a response.


    Tristan smiled wryly as he spoke to her, "I¡¯m outside your office, Bella. My work has finished, and I arrived early. There¡¯s something I want to discuss with you," he said, trying to sound nonchalant so that Bella wouldn¡¯t hear his disappointment.


    Ding!


    Bella was stunned and didn¡¯t leave the elevator upon hearing that Tristan had arrived.


    "Y-You¡¯ve arrived?"


    After Jack gestured for her to leave, she finally walked out and glanced at the parking lot, where she saw Tristan¡¯s car parked in its usual spot.


    "Mhm, and I saw you know¡ª" Tristan said calmly, but a frown slowly appeared on his forehead when he saw a familiar man walk beside Bella.


    ¡¯Jack Foster!?¡¯

 Chapter 136: I’m Fine Now!

    ¡¯Jack Foster!?¡¯


    Tristan recognized the man as Jack Foster, a New York businessman consistently ranked among the top 25 wealthiest people in the world by Crazy Rich magazine.


    Countless questions now crossed Tristan¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯How does Bella know Jack Foster? Wait? Does Quantum Capital also belong to RDF Group?¡¯


    Tristan froze when he realized something. So far, he had never tried to dig up information about Bella¡¯s company. But now, he felt the need to do that¡ªto find out about Jack and Bella¡¯s relationship.


    "Tristan, actually, I have to¡ª" She can¡¯t finish her words as she knows that Tristan is probably watching them.


    "Do you guys want to go to a company dinner?" Tristan asks politely, noticing Bella¡¯s hesitation to speak.


    "Yes. My boss... invited us to dinner. I can¡¯t refuse him because he will fly back to New York tomorrow morning." Bella stopped in the lobby as her eyes fixed on his car.


    She felt terrible because Tristan was already in the parking lot waiting for her, but she had also promised Jack to dine with him.


    When Bella is unsure how to ask Tristan to leave, Jack overhears their conversation and sees an opportunity to meet Tristan.


    "Bella, you can ask him to join us..." Jack smiled at her when their eyes met. "I don¡¯t mind if he joins us. How about you, Leo?" he turned his gaze to Leo.


    This was the opportunity Jack had been waiting for to meet Tristan Sinclair. He wanted to teach Tristan a lesson for hurting his best friend in the past and also needed to warn him not to mess with Bella again, or he would do something that would make him suffer.


    "I don¡¯t mind either. It would be fun if your ex-husband joined us..." Leo smiled meaningfully at Jack before looking at Bella.


    However, his smile immediately disappeared when Leo saw her glaring at him as if she wanted to whack him with her glare.


    "Oops, sorry, boss... I mean, Mr. Sinclair," Leo flashed an awkward smile before turning his gaze to look after Sam, ignoring Bella, who looked sulky. He needs Sam to drive them to the restaurant.


    Tristan, who heard their conversation, felt joy. He couldn¡¯t help but thank the two men for allowing him to join them.


    ...


    Bella finally had to ride in the car with Tristan while following Sam¡¯s car in front.


    They headed to the private restaurant that Leo suggested.


    Bella ignored Tristan since she sat beside him and talked to Dax instead. She informed him that she could not return home to dine with him.


    "Mommy, it¡¯s fine..." Dax¡¯s cheerful voice relieved Bella. "You¡¯re with daddy!?"


    "Yes. You want to talk to him?"


    "No, Mom. It¡¯s dangerous to drive while taking a call..." Dax said seriously, which made Bella almost laugh when she heard her four-year-old son talking like an older person.


    "Baby, there¡¯s a technology called ¡¯Speaker.¡¯ Your dad can still hear us."


    "Ah, Mom... You¡¯re right! How could I forget?" Dax couldn¡¯t help but laugh. Then he continued, "Mommy, did you say you were going to have dinner with Uncle Jack?"


    "Yes... Uncle Jack is visiting Mom for work. He wanted to meet you, but it looks like he doesn¡¯t have much time now, Dax. So, maybe next time..."


    "I see. It¡¯s fine, Mom. Send my regards to him. Alright, I have to go now. I have piano class in a few minutes..."


    After Dax talked to Tristan for a few words, he ended the call.


    ...


    The car became silent again.


    However, not long after, Tristan finally can¡¯t help but ask Bella about Jack.


    "Bella, can I ask you something?"


    She turned her gaze at him, "Yes, sure..."


    "Jack Foster. Is he the owner of your company?"


    "Mhm, he is."


    "How do you know him? Have you worked with him before?" He asked curiously.


    Given Jack¡¯s background and high position in a global company like RDF Group, Tristan had been curious about Bella¡¯s acquaintance with Jack Foster.


    Bella smiled upon hearing his question, and she started to explain that she knew Jack and Dylan during her studies in the US. Since then, they have become best friends. However, Bella didn¡¯t tell him she owned a significant company share in RDF Group.


    "I see," Tristan now understands. "It is so nice of him to ask you to work for his company, Bella."


    Bella shifted her gaze and looked at the car in front of her before she answered.


    "Jack established Quantum Capital in this country in the hope that I would take the management over from him. But when I returned to this country, I never expected my grandfather to force us to get married..." Bella took a deep sigh, remembering those times.


    Tristan¡¯s face stiffened at her words. He remained silent, worried that their conversation would turn awkward again.


    "Well, you know the rest of the story," she laughed softly. This made Tristan even gloomier as he remembered his stupidity in ignoring such a beautiful and intelligent woman.


    Bella didn¡¯t stop her words. She continues to torture Tristan with her words without her realizing it.


    "That time, I was so stupid to fall for you, Tristan. I abandoned my career and only have a plan in mind to become a housewife... Your wife..." she casually said, but for Tristan, her words felt like a thousand nails stabbing his heart.


    "Sorry, Bella..." Those were the only words that could come out of Tristan¡¯s lips. He tightened his grip on the wheel, looked at the road, and cursed himself inwardly.


    "You don¡¯t need to apologize, Tristan. I¡¯m alright now and happy with my life..."


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, but his expression remained unchanged ¡ª angry at his old self for what he had done to her.


    Bella remains oblivious to the change in Tristan¡¯s expression and continues to speak.


    "From then on, Jack asked his brother-in-law to take care of the company until we divorced¡ª" she paused, glancing at him.


    Bella was shocked when she saw Tristan¡¯s face darken. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is he mad? Did I say something wrong?¡¯ She wonders.

 Chapter 137: Relieved

    Bella was shocked when she saw Tristan¡¯s face darken.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is he mad? Did I say something wrong?¡¯ She wonders.


    Nevertheless, she put aside her curiosity and continued her sentence.


    "¡­Jack convinced me to handle Quantum Capital in this country. And you know what, Tristan? One of the reasons I came back to this country was because of him."


    Bella sighed deeply while shaking her head, remembering how persistent Jack convinced her to return to the company.


    "He was too noisy to force me to take care of Quantum Capital. I had no choice but to accept his offer, and he paid me well. So yeah¡­" She feels amused to remember those days when Jack visited them every month in Sweden.


    She told him everything about it but didn¡¯t open up about her share ownership in RDF Group.


    Tristan felt relieved that Bella¡¯s relationship with Jack was purely professional and friendship. Well, at least he doesn¡¯t have to compete with another big shoot.


    "I think I should thank your boss. If it weren¡¯t for him, who convinced you to come back, maybe I wouldn¡¯t have known about Dax and been able to meet you again, Bella..." He said sincerely.


    Bella was at a loss for words when she noticed the gloominess on his face.


    She regretted mentioning the topic, fearing he would ask her again to return to him ¡ª a conversation she always avoided whenever they were alone.


    ¡­


    They arrive at a luxury private restaurant in the middle of the city, surrounded by a semi-forest garden.


    This was Bella¡¯s first time visiting this place, and its beauty enchanted her.


    As their car pulled into the restaurant¡¯s front yard, Bella felt like she had left the city and entered the countryside. The atmosphere was peaceful and serene.


    She spotted the restaurant¡¯s name, Forbidden Garden Private Restaurant, written in gold on the wall.


    ¡¯What an interesting name...¡¯ She mumbles.


    While Bella was busy looking out of the car, immersed in the scenery, Tristan couldn¡¯t help but silently smile as he stopped the car in front of the main entrance lobby.


    ¡¯Do they know this is one of my restaurants?¡¯ he wondered while looking at the other car in front.


    Tristan put aside his curiosity as he dashed out and opened the car door for her.


    "Thanks," Bella stepped out and joined Jack and Leo walk to the restaurant.


    While Tristan he closely walks behind them and listens to their conversation in silence.


    "Bella, you should thank me..." Leo glances at Bella while they enter the restaurant. "It¡¯s hard to get a table in this restaurant. I booked a table here a week ago to come with you. And I¡¯m so lucky they called me today. They said I could come today because someone canceled their book."


    "Wow! Really?"


    "Yes."


    "Does the food taste good?" Bella asked curiously. She relies on Leo¡¯s food recommendations since they are avidly interested in eating.


    "On the first day, I arrived in this city, I happened to eat at this Western restaurant with an acquaintance. If the taste isn¡¯t good, I wouldn¡¯t recommend it."


    Bella¡¯s eyes beamed when she heard about the excellent rating for this restaurant.


    Leo apologizes to Bella for not being able to get the VIP room.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella... they only gave me a hall table," Then Leo glanced at Jack, "I hope you don¡¯t mind eating in the hall, Jack!?"


    "No problem. As long as I can have dinner with you guys before I fly tomorrow, it is enough for me," Jack said with a chuckle. He glanced at Tristan and slowed his step to match him.


    Jack couldn¡¯t help but ask, "What about our big boss, Tristan Sinclair? Are you okay eating in the hall?" his question made Bella and Leo look at Tristan.


    "Me? Of course, I don¡¯t mind," Tristan answered before he glanced at Leo. "Mr. Smith, you don¡¯t need to worry about the VIP room..."


    Leo, "..."


    ¡¯What does he mean?¡¯ Leo wanted to ask, but Tristan avoided his gaze, making him stop mid-sentence.


    Tristan looks over at a middle-aged man in a black suit standing not far from them. The man is the manager in charge of this place. After a brief moment of eye contact with the man, Tristan turns his attention back to Bella and the others.


    "Follow me," Tristan said, leading the way up the stairs to the second floor. He glanced over at Bella and whispered, "Be careful..."


    Bella, "..."


    "Huh, the second floor only for VIP room area, Mr. Sinclair," Leo said in surprise as he followed Tristan up the stairs. "Do you perhaps know the restaurant manager? That¡¯s why you can access their VIP room without reservation?"


    Leo was impressed with Tristan. If he knows Tristan knows the restaurant manager, he doesn¡¯t have to wait for a week to bring Bella to eat in this place. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to reply as he continued walking, leading them to the second floor.


    Upon arriving at the second floor, Tristan headed straight to the large wooden door in the corner.


    When they entered the room, Leo and the others were amazed by the luxury of the VIP room, with a modern interior and large glass windows overlooking the beautiful garden.


    There¡¯s a large wooden table is positioned in the center of the room, surrounded by ten chairs facing each other.


    Upon entering the VIP room, Tristan caught Leo¡¯s amused expression as he waited for an answer.


    "Mr. Smith, I don¡¯t need to make a reservation to come to my own restaurant..." Tristan calmly said as he pulled out a chair for Bella.


    "Y-You own this Fo-Forbidden Garden Private Restaurant?" Leo gasped in suprised.


    "Yes. I thought that was a piece of public knowledge, and you already knew..." Tristan chuckled before continuing, "Mr. Smith, thank you for your high praise for this restaurant. I will ask someone to send VIP access for you so that in the future, you can come here whenever you want without a reservation."


    Leo, "...."


    Jack, "...."


    Bella could only shake her head while narrowing her eyes at stupid Leo. How could he not do his own research!?

 Chapter 138: When Jack Talks to Tristan

    After a tense and awkward dinner, the four of them didn¡¯t immediately leave the room; they remained in their chairs.


    Jack was talking with Tristan about recent global issues.


    While,


    Leo and Bella started gossiping about what was happening at Stellar Entertainment after Andreas Corby announced his resignation from the company.


    However, Tristan could vaguely hear Leo and Bella¡¯s conversation. At the same time, he remembered his plan to sue Laura Kiels.


    Just before Tristan wanted to tell Bella about it, Jack suddently asked him to speak outside ¡ª on the veranda.


    "Tristan, let¡¯s smoke outside and continue our chat," Jack said, a meaningful smile flashing across his face as he looked at Bella.


    Bella, who witnessed Jack¡¯s suspicious gaze, began to feel worried. She frowned at him as if she wanted to stop him, but Jack completely ignored her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Jack. But I didn¡¯t smoke. However, I will accompany you outside," Tristan said. He stood from his seat, and before he followed Jack, he gently patted Bella¡¯s shoulder and whispered, "Don¡¯t worry about me, Bella... We only talk." He could feel Bella seem to worry about them.


    Bella, "...."


    "Who worries about you!?" She wanted to say that, but somehow, her words betrayed her.


    She was speechless.


    Bella could still see them from her seat through the glass door connected to the veranda. Her eyes didn¡¯t leave them, worried and curious at the same time.


    She saw Jack light his cigarette while Tristan stood beside him, and he started talking.


    This time, Bella regretted not taking a lip-reading course. She really wanted to know what they were talking about.


    "Leo, do you know why Jack wanted to speak with Tristan...without my presence?" she asked without looking at Leo, her eyes still fixed on Jack and Tristan.


    "Come on, Bella...why are you curious!? Let them talk alone. What are you afraid about?" Leo chuckled when he saw the stiff expression and worry flashing in her eyes. "You didn¡¯t hear what your hubby said?"


    Hearing Leo¡¯s last words made Bella anxious, even angry. She turned her gaze to him and snapped, "Shut up! Don¡¯t joke around saying that, Leo! If someone heard you, they might believe your words..."


    Leo ignored Bella¡¯s annoyance as he shook his head. He didn¡¯t speak nonsense; instead, he stated the facts of what he saw. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Since Leo arrived in this city and worked with Bella, this was the first time he could talk and meet Tristan in person this close. Before today, he could only see Tristan from afar on several occasions because Bella never allowed them to meet.


    After meeting Tristan in person, Leo felt confused. Why was the news he heard about Tristan Sinclair was completely different?


    Before meeting Tristan directly, Leo is told by Jack and Harper that Tristan is cold to Bella, does not once show his affection to Bella in public, and never says his love for her either.


    Nevertheless,


    Everything Leo saw now indicated that Tristan was nothing like what he heard before.


    Leo watches as Tristan takes care of Bella during their almost two-hour dinner. They appear casual and comfortable together.


    Anyone who saw them would definitely think they were still husband and wife.


    ¡¯Does this girl realize that Tristan is apparently still showing great affection toward her and most likely still in love with her? People could see he treated her like a queen. Was she aware of that?¡¯ Leo wanders.


    He wanted to ask her, but now, looking at her expression stopped him.


    From the look on her face, this girl would smack his mouth with her sneakers if he said anything in his mind right now.


    Therefore, Leo decides to play safe ¡ª keep his mouth shut.


    ...


    While on the veranda.


    Tristan narrowed his gaze at Jack before asking, "Okay, Jack, what do you want to talk about?"


    Jack didn¡¯t rush to answer. He lit his cigarette and then turned to look at the dark sky above. He was thinking about how to start this conversation.


    He was slightly confused when he witnessed Tristan¡¯s sincerity towards Bella during dinner.


    Not long after...


    Jack finally said what was worrying him now, "Tristan, let¡¯s pull no punches here. Tell me, what¡¯s your motive for approaching her again? Haven¡¯t you divorced her cruelly and pathetically five years ago?"


    Tristan was surprised by the sudden question but quickly composed himself and smiled at Jack.


    "I usually don¡¯t let people interfere with my personal life. But you have been Bellas¡¯s best friend for a very long time. So I¡¯ll allow it. Motive? I don¡¯t have any motive. I only want my wife to return to.


    That¡¯s all." Tristan said.


    "Wife?" Jack asked, confused when he heard Tristan¡¯s words. "Why did you call her wife even though you were the one who forced her to divorce? Did you lose your memory or something?"


    Jack¡¯s words, even though polite, were strong and straightforward. But Tristan only responds by calmly shifting his gaze from Jack to the emerging full moon behind the clouds in the dark sky. He took a deep breath and thought about something.


    Although he only briefly knows Jack, Tristan is gifted with the ability to see people as they are immediately. And he could see Jack for what he truly is¡ªhe is a good guy. Jack is also sincere in whatever he does towards Bella. He respects her a lot. They look close, not only as friends but also as family.


    In just a short time, Tristan felt comfortable talking to Jack, making him decide to hide nothing about Bella from him.


    He looked into Jack¡¯s eyes before saying, "You see, Jack, I never filed our divorce papers in court. And those papers have turned to ashes. Jack, Bella is still legally my wife..."


    Jack was speechless, unable to utter a single word after hearing what Tristan said.


    "I don¡¯t want to force her back to me because I know I¡¯ve hurt her in the past. Instead, I want to pursue her in the right way and let her fall in love with me again," Tristan explained.

 Chapter 139: Her Dream

    "Tristan Sinclair, you¡ª" Jack was simply shocked by this plot twist.


    How could this man never submit his divorce papers?


    "You know Jack? She was gone when I realized I was starting to fall in love with her. She disappeared from my life, and I didn¡¯t have a chance to apologize to her and express my real feelings."


    Tristan took another deep breath before he continued his word again.


    "And now, when she returns, I want to chase her again. I want¡ª" his voice faded when he saw Jack raise his hand to stop him.


    "Tristan Sinclair, why are you telling me this? If you love Bella, you should tell her, not me!"


    Jack felt strange listening to Tristan¡¯s confession.


    "If you don¡¯t tell her about your feelings, Bella will never know because she can¡¯t read your mind." He glared at this foolish man.


    Tristan, "...."


    "Man, I told her many times. But, she rejects me all the time¡ª"


    Jack chuckled in delight, hearing Tristan¡¯s sentence.


    "You deserved it, Tristan Sinclair. She loves you so much, but you ignore her feelings. Did you know she left everything only to marry you?" Jack purposely says this to make Tristan suffer and blame himself even more.


    Remembering Bella¡¯s miserable past still made Jack angry with this fool, Tristan Sinclair.


    Bella decided to stop her involvement in the RDF Group and her career only to return to her country and choose to become a housewife, Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife. Unfortunately, her choice was so sad because the man she called her husband never loved her.


    ...


    Tristan knew he had been a jerk to Bella in the past. He hated himself for it, but it confused him when he listened to Jack¡¯s words.


    He never asked to marry Bella, but his grandpa insisted he do so. He couldn¡¯t refuse his grandpa and accept the arrangement at that time.


    When they were finally married, he knew little about her. What he knew about her was that she was beautiful and had just returned from studying in a foreign country.


    "You said she left everything because of me? Can you explain to me?" Tristan asked, curious to know.


    "Bella is the smart one among us and has a brilliant career in our company. But that woman..." Jack glanced at Bella briefly before turning to meet Tristan¡¯s gaze again.


    Tristan frowned profoundly and waited for Jack to continue his words.


    "...Bella is different from any woman I have ever met. She has a simple mindset. Her dream is not to become a rich woman or a powerful woman in business but a housewife."


    Tristan was shocked to hear that.


    "Yes... Yes... I could understand your shock, Tristan." He chuckled.


    "I also had the same expression and feeling when Bella said that to me. That time, I thought she was just spouting nonsense, but after she returned to Astington, she never came back to the company again. And a few months later, I found out she accepted the arranged marriage from her grandpa...to marry you."


    Jack shifted his gaze from Tristan to the moon. His mind drifted back to those moments.


    After a few moments, Jack smiled before continuing his words again, "Bella is the only friend of mine who has a simple dream like that, to become a housewife and devote her life to you. He chose you, Tristan Sinclair..."


    Tristan staggered as he felt his knees give out and almost fell to the ground. He grabbed the iron railing to support himself.


    Knowing how Bella sacrificed her career just to be his wife, he felt like a thousand more nails were now piercing his heart. He couldn¡¯t stop blaming himself for his stupidity, not caring about her feelings.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t say a word because, right now, his mind was too busy scolding himself.


    After a long pause, Jack turned to face Tristan.


    "You know what, Tristan? I already punched your face if you are not Little Dax¡¯s father. You are so damn jerk!!" He said in a casual tone, but it felt like lightning struck Tristan¡¯s head.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t refute Jack¡¯s words; he accepted it. He is indeed the most asshole and stupidest human being who has ever graced the earth.


    "Tristan, you said you want Bella to return to you?" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes!" Tristan answers him without hesitation.


    "If you want her back because you love her, I won¡¯t stop you. But¡ª" Jack trailed off, staring intently into Tristan¡¯s eyes.


    Jack¡¯s terrifying gaze seemed sharp enough to make a hole in Tristan¡¯s brain. He silently gulped, waiting for Jack to finish his fierce words.


    "I will send you straight to meet your ancestor if you plan to hurt her again, Tristan Sinclair!"


    Tristan clenched his fists tightly before saying,


    "Jack, you won¡¯t have a chance to do that! And thank you for looking after my wife for the past few years..." Tristan flashed a sincere smile at Jack before he left him and returned to the VIP room.


    ****


    Meanwhile, in certain private villas,


    Laura Kiels fell to the floor, unable to support her weight, when Andreas¡¯ hand hit her cheek so hard, throwing her onto the floor with her buttocks, kissing the cold marble.


    She cries in shock, "Why? Why did you slap me, Andreas?" her voice trembles as she glares at him, furious.


    This was the first time this man had laid a finger on her; she hated him!


    Andreas stared back at Laura¡¯s angry gaze. He didn¡¯t rush to speak but stepped forward and leaned closer to her. He grabbed her black hair tightly to make her look up to meet his gaze.


    "Y-You... Why did you hit me? Why?" Laura roared as she pushed away Andreas¡¯ hand. She started to feel her scalp hurt, but she didn¡¯t have success; Andreas¡¯ grip tightened, pulling her even more.


    Andreas moved closer to her face until they were only a few inches apart.


    His face was red like a flame, but his eyes were cold as ice, making Laura tremble and confused by the man before her.


    She felt like she didn¡¯t know him anymore...

 Chapter 140: I Have No Power To Protect You!

    Laura felt like she didn¡¯t know Andreas anymore.


    As tears streamed down her face, she shot him an angry glare. With a cracking voice, she said, "W-Why you angry with me? Why did you hit me..."


    He sneered, tightening his grip.


    "An-Andreas... I¡¯m the one who should be mad at you." She continues to express her anger. "...Because of you, now I have lost my Jewelry endorsement. Also, my manager told me that S Jewelry will file a lawsuit against me and Stellar Entertainment. If¡ª"


    "SHUT YOUR MOUTH, BITCH!!" Andreas snapped. He gritted his teeth while holding back his urge to slap her again.


    Laura¡¯s face turned redder and redder as if her blood vessels were about to burst. She really could not understand how this man had suddenly become so strange. This was not like his usual self.


    All this time, this man never raised his voice before her. But now? He even slapped and hit her.


    She was confused and mad at him.


    "Y-You are the one who shut up!! You¡¯re a bastard. I hate you, Andreas Corby!" Laura raises her voice. She can¡¯t hold back her anger, so she cries even louder, ignoring his furious gaze.


    "Again. I said shut up, bitch! This is all because of you. YOU! If you hadn¡¯t abused your fame and done your job well at Stellar Entertainment, that woman wouldn¡¯t have noticed a thing! But you¡¯re so stupid." His dark eyes flickered with intense emotion.


    He continued, "You drag me down, Laura..."


    Laura became even more confused when she heard his words.


    "Wh-what do you mean? What did I do? Why do you blame me?" she asks in confusion. "Who is that woman, you mean?"


    "That woman... She fired me!" Andreas shouted right before Laura¡¯s face. When he saw her eyes widen in shock, he pushed her away before standing straight.


    With disgust in his eyes, he looked at Laura, who was now only wearing her evening gown, which barely covered her body. But, for some reason, he wasn¡¯t interested in touching her tonight.


    "What? Why did they fire you? How could she fire you? Did you mention the company is owned by your family??" Laura asked, wiping her tears. She still can¡¯t believe it.


    ¡¯This man must be planning to break up with me, cut a tie with me; that¡¯s why he made an excuse, right?¡¯ She wonders.


    Andreas walked to the corner, ignoring Laura¡¯s question, poured himself a whiskey, and emptied the glass in one go.


    After feeling his heart much calmer, Andreas¡¯s anger slowly disappeared. He turned to see Laura, who was still sitting on the floor.


    He clenched his fist before saying in his soft, trembling voice, "Laura, from now on, I am no longer the CEO of Stellar Entertainment nor the COO of Quantum Capital. I don¡¯t have the power to protect you...And it¡¯s all your fault!!"


    His eyes shaking, looking at her now starts to cry again.


    He took a deep breath before continuing, "Your career ended, Laura. Now, hide far away from this city or maybe the country because that new CEO will hunt you down."


    Laura was shocked that this man didn¡¯t try to make an excuse, but this is all true. He is telling the truth.


    She never imagined the man she thought was God in Stellar Entertainment would lose everything so fast.


    ¡¯But, why, Andreas said, I also lose my career? And the new CEO wanted to hunt me down? What does he mean?¡¯


    This confused Laura. Because she had never even met the new CEO, but why did the CEO target her? How strange!


    Laura couldn¡¯t help asking, "What do you mean? Why does the new CEO want to fire me too?"


    "What I want to say is... That woman will throw you in jail," Andreas said while walking over to the seating area and then sitting on it. His eyes were still fixed on her.


    He continued, "Anyone who abuses the company¡¯s position and money will be thrown in jail. And I think you are one of those people who will be removed from the company..."


    Laura was shaking after hearing Andreas¡¯ words. She never thought that this could happen to her. She believed she had a strong backup within the company and the industry and that no one could harm her.


    However, now everything seemed to be going in an awful direction, and she was unsure how this matter would turn out.


    "I can¡¯t help you, Laura. Even I can¡¯t avoid this problem. I¡¯m lucky enough to have my brother-in-law. If not, I will also be sent to jail. Before that woman starts to with you, I suggest you run. Or find another person more powerful than me!"


    Andreas rested his head on the sofa and gazed bitterly at the ceiling.


    While Laura? She thinks about finding another powerful backup to help her escape this matter.


    A smile slowly appears on her lips when someone crosses her mind.


    ¡¯Jessica Sinclair...¡¯


    ****


    At nine in the evening, Tristan¡¯s car stopped in front of Bella¡¯s house. She said nothing else; she only said thank you and opened the car door.


    However, before Bella stepped out of the car, Tristan stopped her.


    Tristan starts to tell her that he knows about what happened at her company. He offers his help if she needs it.


    Bella was taken aback. She quickly rejected it. This is only a small matter; she can handle it herself.


    "Okay..." Tristan smiled faintly at her refusal. "But Bella, I just wanted to inform you that my company will sue Laura Kiels. I hope this helps you find a reason to fire her."


    "Why do you want to sue her? Because of the rumors she always spread in the past that you guys actually¡ª"


    "No," Tristan quickly interrupted her before she could finish. "That¡¯s not the case!" He told Bella about what happened today between S Jewelry and Laura Kiels. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A small smile appeared on the edge of Bella¡¯s lips.


    It is a massive help for her to remove this woman from her company.


    She can¡¯t stand to see the delusional woman working for her company.

 Chapter 141: Precious Moment

    Next Morning.


    Early in the morning, Bella put on her running outfit to get ready to exercise as usual.


    As she reached the first floor, she spotted Noora walking towards the backyard, holding something in both hands.


    "Did something happen outside, Noora?" she asked when she saw her rushing outside.


    Noora was surprised to hear Bella¡¯s voice. She turned around, "Good morning, Miss. I have to go out to bring this tumbler for young master..."


    "Huh!? Baby Dax is already awake!? But this is only six... What is he doing outside?"


    Noora was a little surprised when she saw Bella¡¯s reaction. She clearly remembered telling her about this yesterday.


    "Young Miss, sorry to ask. Did you read my text? I informed you about this through my text yesterday..."


    Bella feels bad.


    Yesterday, she was too busy dealing with Andreas Corby¡¯s matter. She rarely checked her cell phone, and it seemed like she had missed this information.


    Noora smiled when she saw Bella clueless.


    "...Young Master Dax started his martial art today. He had already started about ten minutes outside with his senpai. Do you want to see him?"


    Bella said nothing else; she nodded and walked towards the back door. When they arrived at the backyard, she was surprised to see Dax and his martial arts teacher on the field.


    She also saw Tristan standing near the outdoor terrace, his eyes fixed on Dax. She felt even worse for not being aware of this precious moment.


    "Hi, good morning, Bella..." Tristan greeted her with his spring-like smile when he saw her.


    Bella returned his greeting with her not-to-happy expression. She still feels terrible because she didn¡¯t come faster to see her son start her big day, first-day martial arts lesson.


    Standing beside him, her eyes focus on Dax, now running on the field following his martial arts teacher.


    "You should tell me about this, Tristan."


    Tristan finally understands why Bella appeared in such a gloomy mood. It seemed like she was unaware of their son¡¯s big day.


    "I thought you already know..." He smiled at her before following her line of sight.


    Bella didn¡¯t respond to his words. She looked at Dax and then at his teacher. After a few seconds, she was suprised to see the man leading Dax.


    ¡¯Why does that man look familiar?¡¯ She mumbled while narrowing her eyes and looking at the man.


    When Dax and the man finally turned around, facing in their direction, Bella was shocked beyond words.


    After waving and smiling at Dax, who is now looking at her, Bella turns to Tristan and asks, "So, Geoffrey is our son¡¯s martial arts teacher?"


    Tristan had once mentioned to her his plans to find a martial arts teacher for their son Dax. She left the decision entirely to Tristan, as his idea was to ensure that their child was academically sound and skilled in martial arts and physics.


    However, she didn¡¯t expect him to assign Geoffrey to teach their son; she thought he would pay outsiders to teach Dax.


    "Yes. There¡¯s no one else who can teach Dax right now other than Geoffrey," Tristan said while looking at Bella. "He¡¯s an expert among experts. He only feels bored with his old life and chooses to be my butler..."


    Bella, "...."


    ¡¯Gosh, Tristan Sinclair! You must think you are so genius, and I¡¯m an idiot. Who would believe that?¡¯ She vented her sarcasm in her mind before saying,


    "You mean he was on an undercover mission to protect you by pretending to be your butler?" Bella said while squinting her eyes to try to see his sincerity.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her, but the meaningful smile that appeared on the corner of his lips was enough to answer Bella¡¯s question.


    "Why did you assign him to your house when he would be more suited to being in your office or following you around?" Bella asked. Her curiosity about Geoffrey¡¯s identity began to bother her.


    Bella¡¯s memories reel back to when she was still married to him ¡ª trying to remember when she met Geoffrey.


    After a few seconds, Bella finally remembered something. Geoffrey also moved into Tristan¡¯s house as soon as she entered.


    ¡¯Why did Geoffrey work as Tristan¡¯s butler the same day I moved there?¡¯ she wonders while staring at Tristan.


    Tristan looked back at her without uttering a word. It makes her even more curious. She blinked at him, silently waiting for a response.


    Before Bella asked again, Tristan finally said, "Do you really want to know?"


    "Yes, I need to know the background and crucial details about anybody who teaches my son."


    Tristan smiles lovingly at her, saying, "Bella, come back to me, and I will tell you everything..."


    Bella was rendered speechless.


    She gave him a disdainful look and then turned her attention to Dax, ignoring the shameless man.


    However, when Bella saw the field, her heart was stiff; she could see Dax patting while lying on the grass. Feeling unable to hold back, she moved to run after Dax, but Tristan stopped her.


    "No, Bella," Tristan said gently, looking at her teary eyes. "Please respect our son¡¯s decision. This is what he wants...he wanted to train hard."


    Even though Bella felt angry at Tristan for letting Dax do this kind of thing at such an early age, she couldn¡¯t argue with him either. He¡¯s right; This wasn¡¯t just Tristan¡¯s decision but also Dax¡¯s. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella still doesn¡¯t understand why Dax is willing to go through this at such a young age. Whenever she asks, Dax only gives her a vague answer.


    She was increasingly curious about what Tristan actually discussed with their son, which made him willing to do this physical exercise.


    "Our son is strong, Bella. Don¡¯t worry about him. Besides, Geoffrey knows what he¡¯s doing. He knows Dax¡¯s physical limit better..."


    Tristan smiled at her, trying to reassure her. But when he saw her teary eyes, it made him panic.


    "Bella, why are you..." Tristan¡¯s voice trailed off when Bella brushed his hand away and turned her face towards Dax again.


    "I know..." She said barely audibly as she tried harder not to cry now.


    Bella was worried after seeing her little son working hard.


    She understands the difficulty of practicing these exercises because she experienced them when taking Krav Maga and Tae Kwon Do lessons with her self-defense instructor.

 Chapter 142: Afraid Of Herself

    Bella¡¯s heart ached when she saw how hard her son practiced, so she also decided to do her own practice.


    The sun began to rise high as Bella ran along her usual running path. The path was still empty, and she seemed to be the only resident who used that route.


    She increased her speed to run as fast as possible while listening to her favorite music.


    When Bella finally arrived at the peak, she felt blessed to see such a beautiful view, even though the sun had already risen.


    The sky was beautiful, blue, and clear.


    After admiring the beauty of the sky for a few moments, Bella decided to rest while sitting on a boulder before going down.


    While enjoying the refreshing morning breeze, her eyes looked towards the calm blue sea in the distance. However, before she could really appreciate it, she was shocked beyond words when she saw Tristan standing not far from her.


    ¡¯What the hell!? Since when he was there?¡¯ She blinked a few times, wanting to ensure that what she saw was real, not only her imagination. ¡¯Oh my god... He still there!?¡¯


    Bella turned off her music before asking him, "Tristan Sinclair, why are you following me here?"


    Tristan turned to see her, putting on the same expression as her ¡ª suprised. But Bella could know he was just pretending. How shameless!


    "Oh, Bella? I didn¡¯t know you were there..." Tristan approached her. He smiles at her before continuing his sentence, "Since when are you here?"


    Bella, "...."


    While trying hard to resist the urge to scold him, she could only give him a deadpan expression.


    "Tristan, can you stop being shameless? Stop trying to impress me, too!" She snapped.


    Bella knew Tristan was trying hard to pursue her and impress her. All this time, she had just let him do whatever he wanted, but now, she felt the need to remind him again.


    How tiring!


    "Hahaha, sorry, Bella. When I see your angry or annoyed expression, I am even more flattered by you. You look even more beautiful with this expression."


    She almost laughed when she heard his cheesy lines but tried to stay calm and composed out of respect. She could only shake her head lightly and stare at the sea in the distance.


    Bella tries to ignore him to enjoy the scenery and the silence. However, Tristan Shameless Sinclair didn¡¯t let her enjoy her peaceful moment.


    Tristan sat beside Bella and followed her line of sight, enjoying the view of the blue sea in the distance.


    A few seconds passed in silence until Tristan spoke in a serious tone, no longer sounding like a teenage college boy teasing his crush.


    "I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯m bothering you, Bella. I just can¡¯t stand the thought of you running alone here. What if a bad guy appears and tries to harm you?" he looks at her.


    Bella could only take a deep sigh while she turned her gaze at him. Once more, she feels surprised to see his eyes filled with love and warmth.


    Afraid she would drawn there, she returned her gaze to the sea again while trying to calm her mind.


    "I heard from our son that you will take him driving around the city today!?" He asked.


    "Mhm, I decided not to go to the office today because I came home late last night. I feel terrible for leaving Dax that late and quite often lately," she answered, still avoiding his gaze. "And the temperature is just right for Dax and me to drive around the city."


    Bella had never had the chance to take her son to see the city, and today was the perfect day. She also needed time to rest her mind after a busy week at the office handling Stellar Entertainment.


    "That sounds great. Let me drive you guys..."


    Bella was surprised to hear his words. She was about to reject him, but her words betrayed her when she saw his calm and sincere gaze. What she said and thought were completely different.


    "Okay..." She feels speechless hearing her own sentence.


    Tristan¡¯s eyes became even happier when he heard the answer. "T-Thank you, Bella..."


    She silently takes a deep sigh before flashing an awkward smile at him.


    ¡¯Well, at least Dax will be happy if he knows his father will join...¡¯ Bella tried to convince herself she was doing this solely for Dax¡¯s sake.


    "Okay, where are we going this afternoon? To the amusement park, the mountains, or the beach?" Tristan asked enthusiastically.


    Bella told him about her plan. After chatting and making new plans, they immediately went home.


    ....


    What Bella imagined actually happened. Dax was really excited when he found out that Tristan would join them.


    Previously, they planned to leave in the afternoon. However, after breakfast, Dax asked them to leave immediately.


    Dax knew his parents were busy, especially his father. And he had lots of places to visit and was worried they wouldn¡¯t have time for it.


    Bella certainly didn¡¯t refuse Dax¡¯s request. She could only follow her son and Tristan, who seemed to have their own plans and new arrangements for this trip. In the end, she was the one following them now, not the other way around.


    Their first stop was the museum, which Dax wanted to see. Then they visited a technology exhibition in the city; they spent their time there until lunchtime.


    Tristan took them to a private restaurant in North Mountain, about a 15-minute drive from the technology exhibition venue. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Tristan¡¯s car finally stopped at the Old Stone House, Bella was suprised. She knows this place as one of the luxury private restaurants in the city.


    This restaurant does not accept random customers, not even to the nouveau riche.


    They could only serve ten guests daily and only accepted members of certain families already regular in their restaurant.


    Bella looked at him in awe while silently taking a deep sigh. This man never ceased to impress her. She was starting to be afraid of herself now, worried that she would begin to like him again.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go..." Tristan¡¯s voice snapped her from her thoughts.


    Bella immediately steps out of the car, silently following Tristan and Dax as they walk before her. Seeing them hold hands, she feels her heart race.

 Chapter 143: Family Day Out

    Bella immediately steps out of the car, silently following Tristan and Dax as they walk before her. Seeing them hold hands, she feels her heart race.


    It was not the first time Bella felt touched by the closeness of the two men in front of her; she had seen this often since they lived side by side.


    By day, she found it hard to describe her feelings anymore. Her heart for Tristan slowly swells again, witnessing how patient and gentle he is toward Dax and how close they are now.


    Bella tried hard not to waver, witnessing how close Tristan and Dax were now, but it was hard to do so. Especially all this time, she had always chosen Dax¡¯s happiness over her own.


    ¡¯Did I start to waver on him again?¡¯ This question has consistently appeared in her mind lately, teasing and confusing her.


    ¡¯NO! Stop thinking about it, Bella. You and Tristan are just a thing of the past!¡¯ Bella shook her head, trying to get the ridiculous thought out of her mind.


    Bella refuses to imagine her future with Tristan; they become husband and wife again. Just imagine how his parents, especially his mother, constantly verbally abused her; it was enough to make her heart suffocate.


    "Mommy..."


    Dax¡¯s cute voice startled Bella and pulled her out of her thoughts. Bella smiled at Dax and took his hand to walk together. Holding her son¡¯s smooth, plump hands was enough to calm her heart and mind.


    The three of them now entered the empty restaurant.


    No. Bella felt like he had entered someone else¡¯s house. The place doesn¡¯t look like a restaurant but rather a luxurious home with a large, beautiful living room.


    The middle of the room has a seating area with an O-shaped sofa, surrounded by a vast glass wall showcasing a city view.


    There are three wooden doors in the corner. She heard from Tristan that it was a dining room¡ªall guests in this place would eat in a private room.


    On the other side of the room, Bella saw a bar with wine and expensive alcohol. There was also a billiard table near the bar.


    Looking at how luxurious this place was, Bella was curious to meet the owner; she wanted to ask why the owner made a place this beautiful and comfortable but only accepted ten guests daily. From a business perspective, it is clear that this person is not looking for profit.


    ¡¯Gosh, Bella! Forget about business! Can you just enjoy this happy moment with Dax?¡¯ Bella chuckled inwardly as she put aside her curiosity.


    Before long,


    A bald man with a friendly smile on his round face greeted them.


    "Mr. Sinclair, your table is ready upstairs," the bald man said politely. He also greeted Bella with the same politeness; however, when he saw Dax, he was slightly surprised. Still, he kept his curiosity and gestured to them to follow him.


    Tristan merely nods while following the man leading them to the second floor.


    On the second floor, there¡¯s a small lounge with the same city view with modern furnishings. They didn¡¯t stop there, but the bald man led them to one of the doors in the corner.


    A typical luxury VIP dining room has a large wooden table in the center with six rows of chairs facing each other. The room is decorated with modern furniture and expensive art hanging on the wall. It is the same with the lounge on the first floor; in this room, they can also see the city view through the glass wall that faces the city.


    Bella and Dax sat side by side with the city view while Tristan sat opposite them, facing the door.


    After they ordered food.


    They began to engage in small talk; Tristan and Dax talked about the exhibition they visited earlier, while Bella just heard them while checking her cell phone.


    She was surprised to read so many texts from Leo informing her about the progress of the company¡¯s clean-up matter.


    Their legal department started to summon everyone who abused their position and role in the company.


    Basically, the company wants them to return what they have taken from the company. If they cannot return it, they will be sent to prison. No one can escape this matter, including the big star like Laura Kiels. She is one of the actresses they have who continually violates the cooperation contract.


    Thanks to Stefan, they have all the evidence that Laura Kiels violated the contract, most often advertising the deal and drama. Because of her, companies usually have to pay fines. If she couldn¡¯t return the money the company paid for her, she would also go to prison, and her career in this country would be over.


    Of course, Bella has a unique way of taking care of this delusional woman. She will not be kind or easy on Laura.


    How dare she make a scheme with Jessica to ruin her marriage!? If it weren¡¯t for that bitch, her son wouldn¡¯t have been born without his father.


    Read all company updates from Leo enough to make Bella even more in a good mood.


    She typed a message to Leo praising him for his hard work for the rest of the week and today.


    [Bella] Leo, you did a great job!


    [Bella] Remind me to double your year-end bonus!


    [Bella] (Fire Emoji)


    Leo¡¯s reply text arrived just before she put her phone in her bag.


    [Leo] Thank you, boss. But something is going on in the office now.


    [Bella] What is it? Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She looked at her phone and felt a little worried. Before she wanted to type another text, her cell phone rang.


    "Tristan, Dax, I¡¯m sorry, I should pick up this..."


    "Mhm, don¡¯t mind us," Tristan smiled at her to ease her worries. He could see how nervous she was now, which worried him, too.


    "Yes, mommy... take your time..." Dax also smiles at her.


    Bella¡¯s heart raced slightly when she saw that Dax¡¯s smile resembled Tristan¡¯s. She immediately stood from her seat and accepted Leo¡¯s call in the corner.


    "Did something bad happen there?" She asked in her tense voice.

 Chapter 144: Faster Her Plan

    Bella stood from her seat and accepted Leo¡¯s call in the corner.


    "Did something unpleasant happen there?" She asked in her tense voice.


    "Yes!" Leo didn¡¯t rush to continue. He sighed deeply to make himself feel better after the hectic morning.


    "What is it? Come on, say it! Don¡¯t make me curious like a cat." Bella is starting to feel impatient, waiting for Leo to finish his words.


    Leo chuckled before saying, "That bitch came into the office and made a scene," he fell silent again to take another deep breath, enough to make Bella lose her patience.


    "Okay. And?.... Damn it, Leo! I¡¯ll hang up if you don¡¯t finish your words in one sentence. Why are you trying to waste my time now?"


    Bella couldn¡¯t hold back her anger any longer. When she wanted to hear the news, this man was trying to waste her time.


    "Boss, that bitch wants to meet you." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella slightly rubbed her eyebrows with her free hand when she heard Leo¡¯s words. This man should know the answer; she would never want to meet Laura Kiels on this matter, and that woman was not worth her time.


    "Leo, why are you telling me this? You¡¯re supposed to know my answer to that question."


    "I do know. However, that woman threatened us. She said if you didn¡¯t have spare time to meet her, she would wreck our public image so huge that it would never recover. And she doesn¡¯t care if, in the process of bringing down the company, she goes down too..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh a little when she heard someone threaten her company with a kamikaze act.


    "So, what does she want with me? Does she want to make a deal with me? Is she lost her brain somewhere!?"


    "Hahaha, I know, right?"


    Bella didn¡¯t know why Laura dared to challenge her, but even when that bitch tried to do so, she didn¡¯t have a chance to harm her.


    Instead, Bella had prepared a gift for the bitch to celebrate her fall. Bella had initially planned to give it to her after she was no longer in the company, but it seemed like she was eager to receive it now.


    A faint smile crossed Bella¡¯s face, imagining the present she would give that woman.


    "Leo, why did that woman assume she could bring our company down?"


    "That bitch said she has evidence to bring down the Quantum Capital..."


    "Interesting! She had evidence!?"


    "Yes, that¡¯s what she said. Well, boss, do you know what upsets me about it? That woman and her manager tried to bully me when I went down the lobby to get my coffee."


    Leo¡¯s soft chuckle could be heard from the other end before she continued.


    "By the way, they also threatened me by saying you would have no choice but to fire me," he continues.


    "What? What a delusional couple. I can¡¯t believe we have a dumb and dumber in our talent list."


    "Yeah, they are indeed dumb! I could understand if they didn¡¯t know who you are and what your identity is because it is still undisclosed. But me? It¡¯s a different case. Everyone knows how high and powerful my position is. They seem stupid enough not to ask someone about my identity and then think they could threaten me..."


    Bella felt relieved now. What Leo wanted to convey was not a big problem for her or Leo. She could and would handle that woman, but later, not now or even today. And she needed to end this call.


    She feels terrible because she talks too much with Leo and ignores Tristan and Dax.


    "Leo, we will talk again about this matter tomorrow. I have to go now..."


    "Boss, wait! So, do you want to meet that woman or not?" He asked quickly before Bella hung up the phone.


    "No! Ignore her. Don¡¯t waste your time with that bitch... I¡¯ll handle her," She would take care of Jessica Sinclair and, of course, her ex-mother-in-law.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to rush into teaching Laura Kiels a lesson, but the universe seemed to have other plans for her.


    "Roger, boss!" He said.


    Leo knew Bella had special plans for Laura Kiels, but he didn¡¯t know precisely what she would do. All he knew was that Laura Kiels and her manager would never get another job offer in this industry.


    ....


    "Sorry, Baby, to let you wait..." Bella leaned in to kiss his forehead. Even though Dax didn¡¯t say anything to protest, Bella could see he looked disappointed.


    "It¡¯s fine, mommy. I was just worried that your steak would get cold. I know you hated it when your steak is cold."


    "Oh, you¡¯re so sweet, baby... thank you," Bella said tenderly to Dax as she sat in her chair.


    When Bella saw her plate, she was surprised that the steak had already been neatly cut into small slices.


    ¡¯There¡¯s no way Dax could do that, right?¡¯


    Bella slowly raised her head and peeked at the man across from her¡ªthe only person who would cut her steak. This is not the first time Tristan has made a small effort like that, but he does it every time they eat together.


    When their eyes met, Bella felt embarrassed to be caught peeking at him. She smiled awkwardly at him, then said, "Thank you."


    Tristan only responded with a faint smile, obviously happy to see her blushing.


    "You should eat while it¡¯s still warm," Tristan said calmly, although he refrained from saying what was on his mind right now ¡ª telling her their status and forcing her to return to his embrace.


    He distracts his mind and prays to heaven, ¡¯God, can you lessen my punishment for hurting her in the past!? Please... Please... soften her heart faster. I feel like I¡¯m on the verge of going crazy right now. It¡¯s hard to resist her charm.¡¯


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She started eating silently while feeling something strange¡ªa warm feeling¡ªin her heart. This feeling worried her because she felt this way the first time she saw him in the past.


    Just like Tristan, Bella also began to distract her thoughts by praying, ¡¯God, if this man loves me sincerely, let me see that sign. But... if this man doesn¡¯t love me sincerely and only approaches me again because of Dax, please keep him away from me.¡¯


    After their intense, sincere prayer...


    Finally, lunch ended when Dax suddenly felt sleepy after eating so many steaks and cake.


    When Tristan asked him to rest on the couch, Dax hurriedly did it, and it took only a few minutes before he fell asleep.


    Seeing that, Bella and Tristan looked at each other, smiling. She decided to end their family day and return home.


    However, Tristan instantly feels gloomy.


    "Are you sure you don¡¯t want to stop by somewhere first? We can let him sleep here first..." Tristan offered. He still wished to spend the day with them. He even plans to have dinner together.


    Bella, who knew his worries, could only sigh softly. After a while, she gave him an idea, "Let¡¯s go to your house. We can stay there until night..."


    Tristan¡¯s gloomy expression suddenly brightened up instantly.


    ...


    Inside the Mercy SUV park near the main door, a man started taking photos of Tristan carrying a sleeping Dax on his arm with Bella next to him as they left the restaurant.

 Chapter 145: Investigate Who Takes Their Photos

    After putting Dax in his bedroom, Tristan joins Bella in the living room.


    Tristan saw her read something on her cell phone. From her expression, he could guess something was bothering her now, which worried him. However, he didn¡¯t want to distract her now.


    He sat across from her silently. After a few minutes, she looked up at him, and he warmly smiled at her despite her shock.


    "Gosh, Tristan, you startled me!" She placed her cell phone in her bag and silently took another deep sigh, trying to hide her worry. However, it was too late. Tristan already knew.


    "You look slightly worried. Something happened in the office?" he asked in concern.


    Bella, "...."


    Even though Laura Kiels made a scene in the office only to meet her, it was not the one that distracted her now. However, an anonymous email reached her in her inbox.


    After a few moments of silence, Bella finally told him what was bothering her.


    "Tristan, someone followed us and took our picture," she said while offering her cell phone to him. "You can see the picture¡­" S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan¡¯s expression instantly stiffened when he saw the photo of them leaving the restaurant. He frowned momentarily, as if thinking about something, before returning her phone.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Bella. I will ask someone to find out who took this picture and try to blackmail you." He smiled, trying to reassure her not to worry much.


    Although Tristan tries to lessen her worry, Bella¡¯s expression remains unchanged. She can¡¯t dismiss the thought that her evil in-law would see that picture and come after Dax. No, she will never allow them to do that!


    Bella looked into Tristan¡¯s eyes before she said firmly, "Tristan, I¡¯m afraid your parents will do something bad to Dax."


    The light in her eyes flickered as her emotions flared. She continued, "Like forcing Dax to the Sinclair family without my concern. If they do that, I will never forgive them!"


    "Bella, how many times have I promised you? This time, my parents will not have the opportunity to hurt you or our son. That¡¯s my promise. Please believe me and don¡¯t worry about it, OK?" Tristan said with sincerity.


    Bella remained silent. Somehow, she still doubts it because she knows how manipulative Jessica Sinclair was in the past.


    She even wondered a few times that Jessica Sinclair might be the reincarnation of a female character in Chinese Drama, a white lotus lady type¡ªshe appears friendly and gentle before other family members. Still, behind them, she turns into devil¡¯s mode every time she faces her.


    ...


    "About that picture, I will ask someone to check now..." Tristan spoke again, pulling Bella out of her worried thoughts.


    "Mhm, thank you. If you know who that person is, please tell me. I need to know why that person sent me that photo," Bella said. She was suspicious; that person had a malicious motive.


    "OK," Tristan said and took out his cell phone. He made a call without hesitation in front of Bella.


    She was taken aback to realize that Tristan didn¡¯t hide it when he talked to someone. She believed he was now speaking to his hacker.


    "Max, I want you to check the CCTV around Stone House Restaurant..." Tristan tells him the exact time, and he needs the identity of anyone who entered that restaurant around that time.


    While Tristan talked over the phone to Max, Bella was suprised to know Max was actually his hacker.


    She is already suspicious of Max because, as a Technology Director in a big company such as Sinclair Corps, Max spends most of his time in Tristan¡¯s house, teaching Dax coding.


    ¡¯Geez! No wonder I often hear him talking to Max on the phone...¡¯ Bella laughed inwardly as she listened silently to their conversation.


    Max, who was in the computer room downstairs, immediately carried out Tristan¡¯s orders, and it didn¡¯t take long for him to get what his boss wanted.


    He calls immediately, "Boss, I send you the details in your email."


    "Thanks..." Tristan felt in a good mood because Max could complete the task quickly, only a few minutes after he ended the call.


    "That¡¯s my job, boss." Max chuckled.


    Before Max ended the call, he suddently remembered something. He said, "Ugh, Boss... I want to take a vacation today. Can I go back to my apartment now?" He had stayed in this house for almost two weeks, and now he really missed his own bed.


    "You can, but not now. Dax sleeps upstairs. I promised him that you would teach him at noon. So, you wait until he awakes. You can return to your house this night... and come back here again in two days."


    "...."


    Max can¡¯t refute Tristan¡¯s order; he could only say, "OK, boss. I understood..."


    After Tristan ended the conversation with Max, he checked the email before showing it to Bella. However, when he read the information, he was surprised to find out who had taken the photo.


    "You will not believe who that person was," Tristan said. I emailed you the information."


    Bella feels curious.


    She immediately opened the email from Tristan. When she saw the information, her expression was exactly the same as Tristan¡¯s, shocked beyond words.


    "Andreas Corby!?" Bella whispered, feeling confused. "Why does he still dare to take my photos and send them to me?"


    "You fired him, right? Maybe he wanted to take revenge on you?"


    "Yeah. He was supposed to fly back to his country, but he¡¯s still here..." Bella started to believe what Tristan said.


    "Do you need me to put someone to tailing him?" Tristan said after he saw worry flash through her eyes.


    "No need. I have someone who can handle that." Bella took out her cell phone, and she texted Sam.


    "Bella, I could help you. I have plenty of people who could do such a simple job." Tristan offered his help again.


    Bella was speechless.


    How could this man take over all of Sam¡¯s work? He had been her driver, and now he wanted to do the investigation for her.


    If Sam finds out about this, he will probably resign and return to New York to work with Jack because he has nothing to do here.


    Gosh!

 Chapter 146: Arabella Donovan, You Wait!

    While in a particular apartment.


    Laura Kiels was heartbroken after reading Andreas¡¯s text.


    [Andreas] Laura, you are such a lovely woman I ever have, but our story ended here.


    [Andreas] I¡¯m boarding now. Take care of yourself.


    [Andreas] I hope we have the opportunity to meet again (Love Emoji)


    She wiped her tears before typing to reply to his text.


    [Laura] I hated you!


    [Laura] I wish we would never encounter again, Andreas!


    Even though she hated him so much for leaving her like this, she couldn¡¯t forget his kindness during this time; he always protected her.


    [Laura] But, Thank you... thank you for what you have done for me in the past.


    [Laura] (Brokenheart Emoji)


    After she sent the last text, Laura threw her cell phone away. Just before she wanted to continue sleeping, burying herself under the blanket, another message came. She grabbed her cell phone and checked. It was another text from Andreas.


    Laura faintly took a deep sigh before she opened the text.


    [Andreas] This is my last present for you, Laura.


    [Andreas] This is a photo of the man you love and the new CEO who fired me. This woman is the source of our problems.


    [Andreas] If this woman didn¡¯t take over the company, we might still enjoy our life in peace. (Angry Emoji)


    [Andreas] Dear, you can use this picture to teach this woman. It looks like she has a scandal with Tristan Sinclair.


    Laura was shocked beyond words when she saw the picture. Her hands trembled as she held the phone.


    "Arabella Donovan!? So... So... the new CEO who sued me is you?"


    She couldn¡¯t believe what she saw. This bitch, how dare she!? HOW DARE! Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Waah... Bella... You are really bitchy!! You already divorced Tristan, but now you return to seduce him again? Tsk... Tsk...


    What a slut!"


    Laura shook her head while looking at the photo of Bella with Tristan. She felt like she wanted to slap this woman. How dare she return to this city and have the audacity to meet Tristan?


    What angers her even more is that this woman not only steals Tristan from her but also tries to ruin her career.


    "How dare you do this to me, Arabella Donovan!? After I made money for the company, you still want to get rid of me. I know you did this to me because you were jealous that Jessica Sinclair liked me and treated me unlike she treated you, right!?"


    When she looks at Bella¡¯s picture of her walking beside Tristan, the man she loves, her heart feels hot, as if the eternal fire is burning inside her.


    She continues venting her anger while throwing her cell phone on the bed. Only looking at the picture of Bella and Tristan together again makes her feel like a razor slicing her heart.


    "Arabella Donovan, I won¡¯t stay silent. I will avenge a thousand times for what you did to me now. You want to put me in prison!? I will do that to you, too. Do you want to end my career in this country? Dream on!


    I will make it impossible for you to stay in this country! You will never return to Tristan Sinclair. Bella, don¡¯t think you could have him! Because you will never have his children¡ª"


    Suddently, Laura felt choked when hearing her own words.


    "Ch-child..." Her voice trembles as she grabs her cell phone.


    Laura opened the photo again and was shocked when she looked at Tristan up close. She could see clearly that Tristan was holding a little boy.


    "Who is he? Why does Tristan carry this little boy? Why the three of them¡ª" Suddently, Laura Kiels¡¯ voice trailed off when she realized something¡ªthat little boy, perhaps Tristan and Bella¡¯s child.


    "No! No! That¡¯s... Impossible. That woman is barren. She definitely can¡¯t get pregnant.


    That little boy surely not their son!" Laura refused to believe what her mind told her.


    Still shaking at the thought that the child was Tristan¡¯s child, Jessica Sinclair suddenly appeared in her mind.


    "What should I do? What should I do¡­Should I tell Jessica about this?" Laura felt confused. After several minutes of thinking, she finally decided to call Jessica.


    She needed to make a deal with Jessica to free her from all the problems she was facing now. Only Jessica could protect her now.


    ****


    At Tristan¡¯s house,


    When Dax woke from his nap, he was surprised to realize he had slept in his bedroom at his father¡¯s house.


    Dax got out of bed and wanted to look for his parents; his steps stopped when he saw his mother sitting on the sofa in the corner, closing her eyes.


    A smile bloomed on his lips, looking at how beautiful his mother was. He approached her.


    "Mommy, are you sleeping?" Dax asks softly, afraid to wake her up.


    After Dax didn¡¯t hear Bella respond, he looked around to find a blanket for her but found nothing.


    Just before Dax wanted to find his father, Tristan entered the room.


    "Dad..." Dax put his index finger to his lips to ask his father not to make any sound. Then he signaled Tristan to come closer to him before he whispered. "Mom is sleeping on the sofa. I¡¯m worried she will feel uncomfortable. Can you carry her to my bed? Or to her bedroom?"


    Tristan smiled at Dax while glancing at the sofa.


    He was suprised to see Bella sleep soundly while sitting. Earlier, he thought she had come to check on Dax, but she seemed exhausted and sleeping while sitting.


    "Dax, I¡¯ll carry Mom to her room. You can go to your computer room now... Uncle Max is waiting for your lesson today," Tristan said.


    "Ok, Dad. Hmm... please take care of mommy for me."


    "No worries, my little man." Tristan ruffles his soft hair.


    After Tristan saw Dax leave the room, he approached Bella on the sofa. His heart raced the moment he saw her face so close.


    Like an angel sleeping on the sofa, Tristan could see how beautiful she was.

 Chapter 147: He Saw Her Sleeping Like an Angel

    Like an angel sleeping on the sofa, Tristan could see how beautiful she was.


    Tristan gazed at her serene face for a moment more, admiring her beauty. As he saw her features, he felt an overwhelming sense of pain. He now feels related to a quote he had read before, "Regret always comes later."


    He truly regrets what happened in the past.


    They would still be madly in love if he had fallen in love with her sooner.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯You are the stupidest man ever graced this world, Tristan Sinclair. How could you ignore this woman in the past?¡¯


    Once again, Tristan scolded himself for his stupid mistake that he would never forget for the rest of his life.


    After he silently took a deep breath. Tristan leaned closer to carry her.


    However, he stopped the moment his hand was about to touch her. He worried about carrying her now, afraid she would wake up and misunderstand why he was holding her in his arms and being so close to her.


    Also, Tristan didn¡¯t want her to wake up so soon; he wanted to continue feasting his eyes on her perfect beauty¡ªthis woman would never allow him to do it if she was wide awake.


    But when he saw her sleeping position, Tristan put aside his greed as he gently carried her in a princess-like embrace to her bedroom.


    Feeling the softness of her skin and smelling her flower-like fragrance excited his whole body as if something had awakened inside him.


    He tried hard to keep holding himself, not kissing her forehead or lips, which looked very tempting. They were slightly parted as if she had issued a silent invitation for him to kiss her.


    Tristan gently placed her on the soft bed while silently swallowing, relieved that Bella slept soundly. He didn¡¯t immediately leave, but he sat on the edge of the bed with his gaze falling on her face.


    However, when Tristan sat so close to her, like now, he could feel his pulse start to quicken again.


    He tried to distract his mind and look away from her face. He couldn¡¯t help but look at her lips.


    Instantly, he felt his throat dry.


    He swallowed hard as he lowered his gaze to her long neck and then to her chest.


    Instead of feeling better, he felt even more miserable when he saw her black lace bra peeking out from the three unbuttoned buttons of her shirt.


    ¡¯Oh, dear Bella... even when you sleep, you torture me like now,¡¯ Tristan shook his head slightly while smiling miserably. But he didn¡¯t take his eyes off her.


    See how fair her skin was under her clothes. It was enough to make his blood rush to a particular part of his body.


    He immediately stood from the bed, afraid he couldn¡¯t hold himself back from touching or even caressing her.


    After he covered her with a soft blanket, Tristan left the room with his throbbing head, heading to his study room.


    ....


    Meanwhile, in the computer room,


    When Dax got to the room, he saw Max playing a game on one of the computers. Max seemed so immersed that he didn¡¯t notice Dax standing behind him, watching how he played.


    After looking closely, Dax was suprised to see Max play the game he usually plays.


    However, after a few minutes, Dax faintly shook his head as he sat in the chair next to Max, making him jump in surprise.


    "My Lord, Little Dax! Why did you startle me?" He glanced at him briefly before he took off his headphones and placed it on the table. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Teacher, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll distract you and make you lose your game..." Dax answered without looking at him as he started turning on his computer.


    "That¡¯s why I was waiting for you to finish your game," Dax continued, looking at Max with a meaningful smile.


    Before Max could answer, Dax continued, "Teacher... I thought you would impress me with your gaming skills, just like how you impressed me with your coding and programming skills..."


    "Huh, what do you mean?" Max frowned, not understanding the meaning of little Dax¡¯s words.


    "Sorry to say this, Teacher, but your gaming skills are¡­average, to my surprise. Your eye and finger coordination was ok, but you don¡¯t have the required skills to play your hero optimally. And I think that is the reason why you lost..." He said politely, which Max felt was too polite for a boy his age.


    However, Dax¡¯s overtly polite words made Max feel like someone had just slapped him in the face. But later, he feels deja vu because a particular person always says those lines to him.


    ¡¯Damn! How could this little boy say the same words my gaming friend X4D always told me?¡¯ Max sighed in silence and only to himself. He was annoyed that at least two people politely mocked his gaming skills.


    "Dax, do you know that not all computer experts can play games well?" Max wanted to tell Dax this but held back, afraid this little man would say something that could hurt his adult pride again, making Dax too similar to his other gaming friend, who always mocked his game skills.


    As Max tried to set aside his annoyance by telling Dax that the lesson would start soon, he suddenly felt goosebumps when he realized something.


    ¡¯Wait¡­wait¡­DAX... X4D... Why are their names similar?¡¯ Max wonders while looking at Dax. ¡¯Are Dax and X4D the same person? No... Impossible, right!?¡¯


    Max immediately dismisses the idea. There is no way a four-year-old boy before him is his gaming buddy X4D. Not possible. Or is it?


    The thought that his gaming buddy might be a 4-year-old boy made Max feel suffocated. He tries to put aside his suspicions, but a few seconds later, he decides to check his gaming friend¡¯s location.


    After he gave Dax a new task to complete ¡ª to make him busy. Max typed something on his keyboard. The monitor went black in just a few seconds, and many green codes and numbers finally appeared.

 Chapter 148: Tristan’s Suffering

    After he gave Dax a new task to complete ¡ª to make him busy. Max typed something on his keyboard. The monitor went black in just a few seconds, and many green codes and numbers finally appeared.


    Max¡¯s hands dance across the keyboard even faster as he tries to check the location of his gaming friend¡¯s X4D.


    If X4D were in this city, he would be sure that the little man beside him was X4D.


    Max still tries to refuse to believe this kid is his gaming friend.


    Nevertheless, Max¡¯s expression slowly changes from calm to shocked after a few more seconds when he finds X4D¡¯s actual location.


    ¡¯What the hell!! So, this little Dax is that witty X4D who always calls me stupid and slow!?¡¯


    Max can¡¯t help but curse inwardly while looking at Dax in shock and disbelief. He wanted to be sure, to ask him, but he felt his words betray him; he couldn¡¯t say a single word.


    He could only pray that this little Dax would not notice him, knowing that user ID Bitter_Coffee was actually him.


    ****


    When she woke up, Bella was surprised to find herself in the bedroom at Tristan¡¯s house.


    ¡¯Why am I suddenly here?¡¯ Bella mumbled, confused. She remembers sitting on the sofa in Dax¡¯s bedroom, waiting for him to wake up from his nap.


    She sat on the edge of the bed and looked around. No one was in the room. Upon checking her watch, Bella sighed in relief, realizing dinner was still hours away.


    However, she suddently felt terrible because she had slept for almost two hours.


    After folding the blanket neatly and checking her appearance in the bathroom, Bella left the room to find Dax and Tristan.


    Bella was surprised when she left the room and saw Tristan standing in the living room. He was still wearing the same clothes¡ªhis favorite black slim-fit shirt with black trousers¡ªand stood motionless in front of the large glass window that looked out onto the garden.


    Looking at Tristan¡¯s broad back, Bella could feel her heartbeat quicken; she felt nervous for some unknown reason.


    After she adjusted her thoughts and expressions, she immediately approached him.


    Bella cleared her throat as she stopped a few steps behind Tristan.


    "Oh, you¡¯re awake, Bella..." Tristan smiled lovingly when he turned back to see her. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, when Tristan saw her hair styled in a simple bun, showing off her smooth, long neck, his smile gradually turned frosty. Instantly, the feeling that he had been suppressing when Bella was asleep slowly emerged.


    ¡¯Damn, Tristan Sinclair!!¡¯ He could only scold himself in his mind, trying to restrain himself from pulling this alluring woman into his arms and kissing her. His imagination was now starting to run wild, and the more he imagined it, the more suffering he was.


    He shook his head slowly, wanting to throw away his dirty thoughts.


    ¡¯Man! You better stop now!¡¯ Tristan tried to warn himself, but how could he resist her charm now?


    He clenches his hand while trying to maintain his smile at her.


    "Mhm..." Bella answered, "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry I fell asleep... Did you carry me to the bedroom?" She asked.


    It couldn¡¯t be Dax who moved her, right?


    He didn¡¯t rush to answer her but sat on the single sofa, trying to avoid eye contact.


    Tristan motioned for her to join him in sitting. After he saw her sitting on the opposite sofa, he smiled before answering her question. "Yes. Our son asked me to move you to your bed because he was worried you would sleep in an uncomfortable position," he answered sincerely.


    He wouldn¡¯t have dared if Dax hadn¡¯t asked. He clearly remembered what he once promised, he would not touch her without her permission.


    "Sorry, Bella. I didn¡¯t have a choice but to carry you."


    "It¡¯s fine. I understand..." Bella said. She couldn¡¯t help but smile at the thought of her son being mature before his age. "Where is he now?" she asked.


    A relieved smile slowly appeared on Tristan¡¯s face; Bella wasn¡¯t angry. This is enough for him.


    "He is downstairs. He took his computer lesson with Max. Do you want to see him?" He offered.


    Bella shook her head. She didn¡¯t want to disturb her son during his studies. Besides, she needed to peruse and elaborate on several crucial files on her laptop now.


    "Tristan, I need to return home now."


    "Return home? Bella, you promise to dine with me. But why you¡ª" Tristan, unable to continue his words, feels disappointed.


    Bella immediately explained when she saw his gloomy expression. "I need to check something important on my laptop. I will return here again before dinner, can I?"


    "Oh, I see," Tristan¡¯s smile returned when he heard her explanation.


    "Bella, you may use my computer to remotely access your files if it¡¯s on the cloud. If it¡¯s on your laptop, I can ask Geoffrey to come to your house to bring your laptop here. There¡¯s no need to waste time and energy going home now."


    Bella was surprised to hear his offer, but she thought the offer was sensible.


    "Yeah, I can access the files remotely. But are you sure you¡¯re comfortable if I use your computer?" Asked Bella. A big boss like him usually does not allow others to use their laptops or home computers.


    "Yeah, a hundred percent fine with me," Tristan chuckled and stood. "Let¡¯s go to my office..."


    Bella followed Tristan to his home office. She felt slightly uncomfortable because it was her first time entering his office. She can see that the furniture in this room is typical of a workspace, with an elegant, modern, and minimalist interior.


    Tristan stopped at his desk and looked to see her, "Bella, you can use this laptop." He said while pointing at the large laptop on the table.


    Bella wasn¡¯t moving, and she looked hesitant to approach him. Upon seeing that, Tristan continued, "Oh, my apology, Bella. Here, you can sit at my table...and I¡¯ll wait for you on that sofa in the corner."

 Chapter 149: Surprised to See Their Wedding Photos!

    Tristan didn¡¯t wait for Bella to react as he walked to the corner. He settled on the leather sofa after taking a book from a nearby bookshelf.


    He tried to be naturally preoccupied with the book as soon as possible to give Bella a sense of privacy.


    Bella smiled as she saw him engrossed in his book. She approached his table nonchalantly and only thought about her work.


    However, as Bella was about to sit down and open the laptop, she suddenly froze when she noticed a beautiful photo frame on the table.


    ¡¯How could he still have this picture?!¡¯ she muttered as she looked at their old wedding photo.


    Bella was completely taken aback when she noticed their wedding photograph on the table. She hadn¡¯t thought about the photo since their separation, not even once. However, at that moment, the memories of the photo and the day it was captured flooded her mind.


    Seeing how beautiful she looked in her wedding dress brought back all her feelings of that time. She clearly remembered the smile in the photo¡ªher happiness at finally becoming Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife.


    Bella used to find it amusing when she recalled her past. At first, when she learned that her grandfather and parents had asked her to marry Tristan, she despised the idea. However, after meeting Tristan in person, she unexpectedly turns into a silly girl who falls head over heels in love with him.


    How stupid!


    Now, looking at her bride¡¯s happy smile in their wedding photo, Bella can¡¯t help but smile too.


    However, when her gaze fixed on Tristan¡¯s face, her smile gradually faded. Looking at Tristan¡¯s deadpan expression ¡ª his gaze on the picture didn¡¯t share happiness and sincerity contrast with her.


    She felt her heartache as she remembered that Tristan never loved her. To him, their marriage was only a duty to produce heirs for the Sinclair family.


    Bella¡¯s hand clenched into a tight fist to distract her broken heart.


    ¡¯Why does Tristan still own this picture!?¡¯ She wonders.


    Bella clearly remembered asking Noora to burn all their wedding photos. She didn¡¯t even keep anything for herself because there was no point in keeping it.


    ¡¯Did Tristan have the hard drive for our wedding photo? No. It¡¯s impossible...¡¯


    Bella immediately dismissed that thought because she remembered that the only people who took photos of their wedding were her family. All their hard drives and wedding photos were destroyed.


    She didn¡¯t remember Tristan¡¯s family assigning a photographer at that time because their wedding was private and top secret, and only a few people attended.


    Bella slowly turns her gaze from the picture to Tristan. She saw him immersed in reading the book on his lap.


    Instantly, she feels her heart quickened.


    ¡¯How handsome¡­¡¯ she whispered to herself, thinking that the man in the corner was the God who grace from heaven and blessed her eyes with his present.


    She refused to blink, afraid of God disappearing from her sight.


    Badam!


    Badam!


    Bella could hear her own heartbeat loudly race inside her.


    Not long after, the rusty feelings she had once had, which she had long buried deep in her heart, slowly rose, causing her hands to shake and her knees to weaken.


    Bella almost stumbles when her knee gives in. She grabs the table¡¯s edge while lowering her gaze to distract her mind from him.


    After a few moments,


    Once she felt a little bit calmer, Bella looked at him again.


    However, her heartbeat races even faster. Bella was surprised again because, this time, Tristan looked back at her with a visible frown.


    Tristan closed the book in his lap when he saw she had not sat down or touched the laptop on the table.


    He couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Everything okay, Bella? You can¡¯t use the laptop!?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t wait for her to answer as he stood from his seat and approached her for help.


    Bella blinked several times, looking at Tristan, who was now towering in front of her.


    Her heart beat faster.


    She opened her mouth several times to ask about their wedding photos. Still, she couldn¡¯t say anything, as if all the sentences she wanted to ask were slowly turning back in her throat. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gosh!


    "This is weird because I still use the laptop when you sleep," he said, smiling at her. Let me check the laptop for you."


    Before Tristan walked past her, Bella¡¯s hand stopped him.


    Tristan looked at her in surprise, and then he saw her soft hand holding his arm.


    They stood close enough for him to smell her familiar, fragrant scent. He felt like he was on cloud nine, too happy.


    For a few seconds, their eyes meet, conveying their own emotions.


    Bella feels confused with Tristan, who still keeps their wedding photo.


    While Tristan feels overjoyed because Bella is holding his arm.


    After a moment of silence, Bella finally voiced her thoughts.


    "Tristan, why are you still keeping¨C"


    "Mommy... Daddy..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words as Dax¡¯s voice sounded from the door so suddenly.


    Surprised, they both look at the wide open door and see Dax standing with Geoffrey behind him.


    Dax smiled, looking at his parents, who seemed just about to hug each other.


    ¡¯Did I come in the wrong time?¡¯ Dax wondered.


    "Ummm¡­.Mommy and Daddy seem to be doing something important, and we shouldn¡¯t bother them. Mom... Dad... I¡¯m sorry if I interrupted anything. You guys may continue... I¡¯m going to continue my lesson with teacher Geoffrey," said Dax, then hurriedly closing the door, not wanting to thwart his father¡¯s efforts to win his mother¡¯s heart.


    However, before the door closed, Bella snapped from her shock and was even more suprised to realize she still held Tristan¡¯s arm.


    "Dax, Dax... would you wait, please... This is not what it looks like. We are not doing anything...like you think we¡¯re doing," Bella said while approaching him and running to the door.


    She completely forgets her plan to come to Tristan¡¯s office.


    At this moment, she just wanted to cover her face and leave the room; she felt embarrassed.


    Tristan secretly chuckled as Bella fled from him. He didn¡¯t say anything; he slowly walked and followed her and their son with a smile.

 Chapter 150: Hearing Dax’s Opinion

    Bella held hands with Dax as they headed to his bedroom.


    She could feel her son glancing at her a few times, but Bella ignored him because she was busy trying to calm her mind after what happened inside Tristan¡¯s office.


    However, before they enter his bedroom, Dax¡¯s innocent voice echoes, surprising Bella and causing her to blush to hear his question.


    "Mommy, did you and Daddy finally get back together..." Dax¡¯s innocent voice slowly faded when he glanced at his father behind and saw him shake his head as if to answer his question, "No."


    Dax sighed to himself, feeling sorry that his father had not succeeded in winning his mother¡¯s heart.


    Bella became even more embarrassed when she heard Dax¡¯s question. She cleared her throat slightly as she glanced at him. When their eyes met, she leaned closer to him. "Baby, let¡¯s talk inside," she whispered. Something important she needed to talk to him about.


    Little Dax nodded at his mother, even though he was slightly confused when he saw his mother¡¯s expression, which was different from usual. Now, she looked confused and tense.


    After they entered Dax¡¯s room, Bella stopped and turned to face Tristan, who was still following them from behind.


    "I¡¯m sorry, can you wait outside? I need to talk with Dax¡­ alone."


    Tristan is confused by her words, but he smiles and nods in the end.


    "Sure, Bella. I will wait downstairs. Please don¡¯t forget we will have dinner at seven."


    "Ok. Thanks..."


    Tristan waved and smiled at Dax before leaving. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even though Tristan was curious why Bella wanted to talk to Dax without his presence, he didn¡¯t protest or ask anything about it. So he left with his mind filled with countless questions, hungry for answers. But Tristan vowed not to let himself be drawn by his curiosity and foil any hope to get Bella¡¯s heart and mind.


    Tristan halted at the sight of Geoffrey near the stairs before he descended to the first floor.


    "Geoffrey, since when did my son finish his computer studies?"


    "Around five minutes ago, sir. Young Master Dax insisted on seeing you and his mother. He said he would look for you and his mother by himself if I refused to tell him where you were, sir. So I have to let him know that his mother is in your study room," he answers.


    Geoffrey was slightly worried he made a big mistake, coming to his study room at the wrong time and making his master angry.


    Earlier, Geoffrey had only briefly seen Tristan and Bella standing so close. But he immediately could guess what was happening in that room.


    Although Geoffrey was worried that he had ruined his master¡¯s moment, he still felt delighted because his master had made significant progress.


    "Master, apologize if I bother you earlier," Geoffrey said while bowing his head slightly.


    "No. It¡¯s fine, Geoffrey," Tristan said, stopping in his tracks. He turned to see Geoffrey behind him, "By the way, you may go ahead about preparing our dinner."


    "Yes, master."


    Before Tristan walked again, he remembered about Max, "...one more thing, Geoffrey. Did you see Max?" he asked.


    "Max? He just left after playing a computer game with young master Dax, sir¡­ He said you had already allowed him to go home once he met young master Dax. He also said he would be back in two days." Geoffrey explained.


    Tristan just nodded and continued. He headed to the library to make a phone call.


    ¡­.


    Meanwhile, Bella and Dax sat next to each other on the sofa. But Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She was still debating whether to ask Dax about what was weighing on her mind.


    After a few moments of silence, Dax was the first to ask, "Mommy, you looked terribly worried. What¡¯s wrong? Please don¡¯t make me worry..." He felt worried after seeing his mother¡¯s expression.


    Dax¡¯s question made Bella flinch. After taking a deep breath, she decided to talk to him.


    "Dax," she said, looking him in the eyes. "May I ask you about¡­something...?" She felt a massive stone in her throat as she broached the topic.


    "Yes, mommy, you may ask anything." Dax smiled as he placed his hand on hers. He was surprised to feel how cold her hands were now.


    Dax was about to say something but paused when he saw her finally speak.


    "Please forgive Mommy if the question sounded too straightforward, Dax. But Mommy really needs to know¡­ If you had to choose someone who would become of our little family, who would you choose, your father or Uncle Sean?"


    Instantly, Dax¡¯s calm expression turned confused.


    However, slowly, he regained his composure as he said, "Mommy, I think you asked the wrong person. You are the one who should decide, not me..."


    Bella took a deep breath. Of course, as usual, Dax brilliantly answers her question. And she agrees with him. She is also glad Dax didn¡¯t say or ask anything afterward. Just a brief, simple answer.


    His answer makes Bella even more confident that her decision to involve her genius son Dax in any significant choices is correct. Even though he is only a toddler in other people¡¯s eyes, Bella knows Dax is a genius. Moreover, he has unusual wisdom for a child his age. And for that, Dax¡¯s opinions will always matter in her future choices.


    "Baby, I know... but I just want to hear your opinion," Bella said. Suddenly, she was starting to regret talking about this to Dax. She might be wrong. Dax, maybe not that wise. Maybe, for this matter, he was too young to hear it.


    Dax took a moment to reply. "Mom, I like Uncle Sean a lot. He¡¯s a great guy. But I have spent a good amount of time with Dad. And he is a cool guy. A great guy, just like Uncle Sean.


    But Dad is my biological father... So, if I had to choose, I would definitely choose my father," he eventually said.


    Bella was shocked by his response. She slightly tightened her grip on their linked hands.

 Chapter 151: Dad or Uncle Sean?

    Bella was shocked by his response. She slightly tightened her grip on their linked hands.


    "But Mommy, that¡¯s was just my opinion. I will never force you to follow my choice to reunite with Dad. It¡¯s your happiness that matters more to me. So please, don¡¯t decide anything just because of me. Just follow your heart. I¡¯m just a kid.


    Kids are tough and easily adaptable human beings, Mommy."


    She was speechless when she heard her four-year-old son speak like Aunty Noora. He sounded mature, and she felt embarrassed because his words were correct.


    "You are such a wise and genius kid, Dax. Thank you, baby... for sharing with mom what¡¯s in your heart and mind," said Bella. She smiled as she slowly placed her hand on his chubby cheek. "I am very grateful to have a wise, intelligent, mature son like you... I feel like I don¡¯t want or need anyone else in the world but you.


    Only you, my son..."


    "Mom, I¡¯ll always be by your side and protect you. Whatever you choose, I promise I won¡¯t go mad or go anywhere far," Dax said in a sincere and meaningful tone. But Bella, who had heard it, was amused.


    She held her laugh, looking at how adorable her son¡¯s expression now was. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Really? Oh, thank you, baby¡­I will keep and remember your promise, darling."


    Dax smiles at her and says, "My mother is the best woman...I will protect Mom forever."


    Bella¡¯s eyes became blurry when she heard his sentence. Blissfully, she pulled him into her arms.


    A few moments later, after they hugged silently, Bella finally let go of her hug. Her smile was still there, framing her beautiful face. Unfortunately, her smile slowly faded when she heard Dax¡¯s following words.


    "Mom, so who do you choose? Dad or Uncle Sean?"


    Bella, "...."


    She couldn¡¯t answer her son¡¯s questions. She could only hug him tightly until he asked to let go.


    After dinner, the family day is finally over. Bella excused herself to return to her house.


    Tristan¡¯s expression slowly turned sad when he realized they were finally going home. A day with Bella and Dax was not enough for him, and he wished they would be reunited soon.


    "I hope you and Dax sleep over here..." He said while walking to Bella¡¯s house and carrying Dax in his arms ¡ª he slept again.


    Bella quickly glanced at him and sighed deeply upon hearing his words.


    She tried to avoid Tristan¡¯s words, concerned that he might bring up a topic she was not ready to discuss. She had more important things to think about than discussing his desire for them to reunite as a married couple.


    ***


    The next day.


    After news of S Jewelry¡¯s lawsuit against Laura Kiels spread across online media and television, Laura could no longer go out in public places without disguising herself.


    Just like today, Laura Kiels left her house wearing a wig and oversized sunglasses to hide her face.


    She even used her manager¡¯s personal car to leave her apartment because journalists and paparazzi had been camping in front of her apartment building since yesterday.


    Laura received a stern warning from the apartment management due to the disturbance caused by the paparazzi and journalists. The presence of these intruders made it difficult for the guards to maintain security and disrupted the comfort of other residents.


    Several journalists even attempted to enter the restricted area by pretending to be residents, further aggravating the situation.


    After being pressured by the apartment management, she was forced to either give a statement to the media or temporarily leave her house until the journalists were no longer camped outside.


    Laura had no other choice but to leave her apartment temporarily until everything calmed down¡ªshe couldn¡¯t meet with the media now.


    She decides to go somewhere unknown to avoid journalists. However, she got Jessica Sinclair to agree to meet her in a private restaurant before that.


    It was difficult for Laura to ask Jessica Sinclair to spare time to meet her. The socialite woman seemed to have drastically changed her attitude lately. She didn¡¯t know why Jessica had become unusually distant, but she would find out later.


    Laura arrived ten minutes early at the restaurant and waited anxiously in the reserved VIP room. She kept her sunglasses, even though the waiter who took her order had left and she was alone in the room.


    She was busy observing the room, concerned that a hidden camera or CCTV might be in the room that would record her meeting with Jessica. After convincing herself that nothing was suspicious in the room, she felt relieved and sat calmly. But still too uncomfortable to take off her sunglasses.


    Her eyes kept staring at the door. A few minutes later, she heard a knock on the door.


    "Yes, come in, please¡­" Laura said, trying to use her low tone to hide her actual voice.


    When the door opened, she saw the waiter return with her order, a cup of warm camomile tea, to calm her nerves.


    Several minutes passed, and her anxiety continued to increase. But Jessica still hadn¡¯t shown up.


    Laura checked her watch several times to confirm the time of their meeting. She started to worry when she saw that Jessica was five minutes late.


    This was strange because the old socialite woman was never late every time they met.


    Countless unpleasant question now fills her mind.


    ¡¯Did she abandon me here? Why hasn¡¯t she come yet?¡¯ Laura felt nervous. She was afraid Jessica would still avoid meeting her.


    Now, she was confused about whether to call Jessica again or wait as she glanced at her cell phone on the table.


    When Laura decided to call Jessica¡¯s cell phone, the door opened, and Jessica finally appeared. With a happy smile, she stood up and approached Jessica.


    "Auntie Jessica, you finally¡ª" Laura¡¯s voice suddenly stopped when a powerful slap landed on her cheek. She was shocked, looking at Jessica, who was looking mad at her. "W-Why are you..."


    "How dare you!" Jessica hissed at Laura, who stared back teary-eyed.


    "Why did you slap me, Aunty...?"


    Plak!


    Another powerful slap silent, Laura.

 Chapter 152: She Didn’t Have A Chance

    Jessica¡¯s slap sent Laura Kiels staggering backward, almost falling to the floor.


    Her cheeks felt sore and hot as she rubbed them with both hands while looking confused at Jessica Sinclair; why did this woman hit her!?


    "Au-Aunty Je-Jessica, why did you slap me?! What did I do that made you slap me?" Laura Kiels asked in her whimper, almost crying, shocked and confused.


    Laura Kiels never imagined Jessica Sinclair, the woman she respected the most, laying her finger on her as soon as they met without a single word or warning.


    ¡¯What did I do to make this woman angry like this? What?¡¯ Laura wonders in confusion and fear.


    Her chaotic mind was scrambling to think what fault she might have done. But so far, she only recalled one mistake. But it¡¯s a small one where she didn¡¯t come to the agreed filming location.


    ¡¯Did she hit me because of that?¡¯ She felt utterly perplexed and started to feel angry.


    When Laura saw Jessica staring at her disdainfully, She felt even more hurt and betrayed. An enormous feeling of furiousness replaced her confusion.


    She clenches her teeth and finally says, "You know what, Aunty Jessica? Before you slapped me, I wanted to share some important information about your son. But when you suddenly slapped me, I felt like I no longer needed to tell you. Instead, I will meet with the media and disclose the secret information that I know you would never want the Media to know about it."


    Laura Kiels no longer cares about her career; if Jessica Sinclair can¡¯t promise to do her demand, she doesn¡¯t care.


    She only needs money to pay what Stellar Entertainment demands¡ªthe amount that Arabella Donovan legitly forces her to pay.


    If Jessica can¡¯t give her the money she needs, she will take her last route to get money.


    Laura knows that A-Netz* loves her and will forgive her later. The bad news she faces now is easy to ignore, as it concerns only neglecting her work contracts. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It¡¯s not a scandal like stealing someone¡¯s husband, so she is sure that A-Netz would forgive her.


    She only had to post an apology statement on her social media and disappeared for several years. Once A-Netz has forgotten this matter, she will return to the industry.


    When Laura saw Jessica¡¯s eyes shaking in confusion as she looked at her, Laura smiled happily and returned to her seat.


    "What do you want to say, slut?" Jessica¡¯s cold and angry voice made Laura flinch slightly.


    ¡¯Sl-slut!? How dare she call me that way!!¡¯ Laura¡¯s hands under the table clenched into tight fists.


    "Aunty, I won¡¯t say anything if you don¡¯t tell me your reason for hitting me," Laura said calmly, but her gaze betrayed her. She looked at Jessica with her disdainful gaze as if she wanted to return Jessica¡¯s slap through her gaze.


    "What have I done to you that made you lay your finger on me?" Laura continues.


    Jessica¡¯s expression became even uglier when she heard Laura¡¯s words. She didn¡¯t want to discuss it because it was embarrassing, but this woman forced her.


    "Do you want to know?" Jessica asked in her soft yet cold tone.


    "Yes!" Laura answers her without hesitation. She needs to hear her good reason.


    Jessica¡¯s soft chuckle echoed in the room.


    "Do you know that you are a shameless woman I ever know!? How dare you appear innocent in front of me, but you act like a whore behind my back?" Jessica said as she took out her cell phone.


    Laura, who heard her words, almost choked hearing Jessica¡¯s words. Before she could speak, Jessica handed her cell phone.


    "What is it?" Laura said as she slowly looked at the cell phone. "Oh my god¡ª" Instantly, Laura felt her blood run cold, too shocked to see the picture on Jessica¡¯s cellphone.


    She saw herself on the bed, sitting on Andreas¡¯ lap. They were both naked; he squeezed her breasts while her face looked at the camera with an embarrassed expression. She blinked several times to see the picture more clearly, hoping what she saw was a different image.


    But the more she looked at it, the more she trembled.


    ¡¯Ho-How could Jessica have this photo?¡¯


    She remembers Andreas forcing her to take this picture for his personal collection, but why did this picture appear on Jessica? Did Andreas send it to Jessica? Why did he do that?


    "Do you want to see other interesting videos?" Jessica said disdainfully.


    Laura didn¡¯t know how to react. She felt her soul leave her, too shocked by what she saw. She could only clench her fists while silently staring at Jessica as she played the video.


    She almost spat blood when she saw the video of her making love with Andreas several months ago.


    "E-Enough... Please... Stop!!" Laura said in her trembling voice. She felt very embarrassed hearing her moans in the video. "Please stop it!!"


    Jessica¡¯s smile grew wider, too happy to see this little slut finally show her true face.


    "I can¡¯t believe I had the idea to force my son to marry you," Jessica said regretfully. "...After I saw these photos and your video, I understand why my son, Tristan, was never interested in you. It¡¯s like he already knows who you are...a slut!"


    Laura was left speechless and humiliated after Jessica¡¯s words.


    After a while, Laura finally asked, "How do you get those photos and videos?"


    "Heavens! You still ask?" Jessica couldn¡¯t believe what she heard. "You were the one who sent it to me!"


    Laura was shocked beyond words. How could she send it? She doesn¡¯t even have that stuff on her phone.


    ¡¯Someone hacked Andreas and my phone?¡¯


    "Now! Tell me what evidence you want to show me. If you don¡¯t come up with something interesting, your making-love-session video will appear on new TV tomorrow morning!"


    Grinding her teeth in frustration, Laura threw away her intention to make a deal with Jessica. She didn¡¯t have a chance to win this woman.


    ¡¯What the hell!! Why did it become like this?¡¯ Laura vented her frustration as she took out her cell phone and handed it to Jessica.


    Suddently, Jessica¡¯s face turned frosty as she saw her son and Bella in one frame.


    ¡¯Wait! Why is Tristan carrying a boy? Who¡¯s the boy?¡¯


    Jessica¡¯s hands were shaking as she held Laura¡¯s cell phone.

 Chapter 153: The Fate Of Stellar Entertainment

    At Quantum Capital.


    Bella has been working in her office since morning, monitoring the top 10 trending news about Stellar Entertainment.


    Reading all the headline news about her company could only make her laugh.


    "The CEO of Stellar has been fired due to an embezzlement case."


    "Andreas Corby, the CEO of Stellar Entertainment, was fired for corruption."


    "Five Directors at Stellar Entertainment Become Suspects, and Jail Welcomes Them!"


    "Cleaning up at Stellar Entertainment has a negative impact on the company¡¯s reputation."


    "S Jewelry is taking legal action against Stellar Entertainment and Laura Kiels for breaching their contract."


    "The end of Stellar Entertainment is approaching."


    "The Sinclair Group has removed Laura Kiels from her role as a brand ambassador for S Jewelry."


    "Stellar Entertainment¡¯s new CEO and management have been appointed."


    Although news about Stellar Entertainment was circulating, Bella wasn¡¯t worried, as she and Stefan controlled the information flow. There was no news about Quantum Capital and its other businesses.


    If an article tries to relate Stellar Entertainment to Quantum Capital, all news about it will vanish instantly from the internet.


    But something gave her a headache. Even though she could silence the news, she couldn¡¯t stop the employees in this building from gossiping.


    Sam informed Bella that the company¡¯s future is causing concern among all departments, particularly the employees at Stellar Entertainment.


    Stellar Entertainment employees seek an internal statement from the new management to explain the company¡¯s future. Almost half of their actresses and actors have been fired, and the employees are eager to know what is happening.


    Bella doesn¡¯t plan to do anything for Stellar Entertainment; she will wait a few more weeks until all the cleaning processes are completed.


    She focused on handling some work with other companies, especially their new investment in a new oil and gas company in Nova City.


    Quantum Capital invested significant money in Celebes Energy, a new oil and gas company, becoming the largest shareholder. This caused Bella to shift her focus to Celebes Energy.


    She has planned to visit Nova City since last week, but Stellar Entertainment drained her attention and time. So, Leo had to rearrange their plan to visit the company within a few days.


    Currently, Bella can only read some reports from Celebes Energy and have online meetings with management.


    Bella had been so busy working since morning that she would have forgotten to eat lunch if Leo hadn¡¯t come to remind her.


    "Boss, I know you like working, but you can¡¯t forget your lunch..." Leo smiled when he saw Bella glaring at him. But he ignored his annoyance and continued his words. "Let¡¯s go find some delicious food..."


    Bella closed her laptop and then stood up from her seat. After she took her bag, she approached and asked him, "What do you want to eat?"


    "You choose," Leo leaned against the doorframe, concerned about her. She had been glued to her work, not standing from her seat since she arrived at the office.


    Sam told Leo that Bella didn¡¯t ask him to buy her brunch, which she usually does when she is in the office.


    "Alright, let¡¯s eat an Asian food..." Bella offer.


    "Which country?" Leo asked excitedly. He was craving Asian food after eating pizza and burgers frequently in recent days.


    Before offering, Bella thought momentarily, "How about Vietnamese food? I really want to eat Pho?"


    "Damn!! What a coincidence! I want to eat that too..." Leo chuckled while they walked toward the elevator.


    However, before they enter the elevator, a short-haired woman approaches Leo.


    She greeted Bella politely before looking at Leo. She said, "Mr. Smith, I received a package for Ms. Donovan." She offered Leo a small black box the size of a watch case.


    Leo frowned as he looked at his assistant, Dana. "What is it?"


    "Sir, I¡¯m sorry, but I didn¡¯t dare to open..." Dana answer.


    "Okay, you can continue your work. Thank you," said Leo as he received the small black box from Dana and handed it to Bella. "Are you waiting for this one?"


    Bella shook her head, confused, looking at the box.


    "Nope, I didn¡¯t wait anything. Ugh... Leo... Why, I thought someone was trying to prank me!? Can you open it for me?"


    Bella felt suspicious and afraid to receive the box. Only a few people knew about her office, most of whom were her family. They wouldn¡¯t send something to this place but give it directly to her, right?


    Instantly, Leo¡¯s expression turns tense as he eyes the black box on his hand, and then he slowly turns his gaze to Bella.


    "Did your enemy send this?" Leo asked.


    He became suspicious of those recently fired from the company, especially Andreas Corby and Laura Kiels.


    Bella frowned. She also started to wonder if those people would take revenge on her.


    "Well, just throw it¡­" she said and entered the elevator. Leo followed her behind, but his face grew tense as he saw the box in his hand.


    After a few moments, he drew closer the box to his ear, hoping to hear something. Fear grips him as he considers the possibility that the object inside might be a bomb.


    Ding!


    The elevator opened.


    "Gosh! You just need to open it or throw it away, Leo," Bella said as she stepped out of the elevator.


    Leo sighed softly as he followed Bella out of the elevator. He ran to match her pace and got closer to her, "What if... it¡¯s a bomb?"


    Bella stopped abruptly and frowned upon hearing his words. Although she had considered the same thought, she had set it aside that thought. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No. It¡¯s impossible..." Bella answered and continued walking toward the main entrance. She saw Sam standing near the car, waiting for them.


    "You can give it to Sam. He is an expert on whether it relates to bombs or something like that."


    "Oh, you are right," Leo said, immediately offering the box to Sam.


    "Can you please check what¡¯s inside? This is from an anonymous source. I suspect there¡¯s a small bomb inside." Leo whispered.


    Sam¡¯s expression instantly turned dark.

 Chapter 154: Something She Didn’t Expect!

    "Can you please check what¡¯s inside? This is from an anonymous source. I suspect there¡¯s a small bomb inside." He whispered.


    Sam¡¯s face instantly turns dark. He immediately took the box from Leo, his face twitching as he stared into Leo¡¯s eyes.


    "You should check the CCTV before taking this box, Leo! How could you bring this box to our Boss!?" He snapped.


    Leo, "¡­"


    He feels hurt. This is the first time Sam scolds him.


    "Okay, can we go now?" Bella chimed in as she saw Sam staring at Leo as if he wanted to punch him.


    Sam hurriedly turned his gaze to Bella. "Boss, you can get in the car first. I¡¯ll check this box." He said politely.


    "Be careful, Sam," Bella said in worry before she entered the car.


    When Sam saw Bella and Leo enter the back row, he opened the box immediately. What he saw suprised him¡ªlay there a black card with "Arabella Donovan" written on it.


    What surprised him the most was that the Spencer Group, the powerful and noble family in this country, actually issued the Black Card for Bella.


    "Spencer Group?" Sam knew about this kind of card. RDF Group also issued three cards like this for only the company¡¯s founder. He happened to have the card because Bella gave him the black card a few days ago.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why does Boss Bella have this card? Did she know someone from the Spencer Family?¡¯ Sam wondered. He stared at the card silently before closing the box and walking to the driver¡¯s seat.


    Sam glances at the back row. He sees Bella and Leo seriously discussing their plan to fly to Nova City.


    Before driving, Sam offered the box to Bella, "Boss, sorry to interrupt. This box is safe..."


    Bella was taken aback when she received the box. However, she accepted it and opened it, only to find a black card with her name inscribed on it. Her heart sank.


    ¡¯Sean... Why do you still send this card to me?¡¯


    She still remembers refusing Sean¡¯s offer at that time. Since she didn¡¯t want this card, it would cause trouble for her in the future.


    "What is it, Boss?" Leo asked, surprising Bella. He could see the black card on her hand but not the card¡¯s name. When he tried to peek, Bella immediately put the card into her bag.


    "Nothing," Bella said, turning her gaze out the window. She didn¡¯t want to discuss this card with Leo.


    Bella wants to keep her relationship with Sean private, as only a few people know about it. Their relationship is still uncertain, as Sean has not spoken to his parents about her, which was the condition she gave Sean. Without his parent¡¯s blessing, she would not accept him.


    And now, she feels like she needs him so much.


    However, when she needed his support, he went missing again after their last phone call. She always sent him so many texts, but he never replied to any of them.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Sean, please come back soon. If you don¡¯t come back soon...¡¯ Bella slightly shook her head. She didn¡¯t want to think about Sean because the more she thought about him, the more upset her heart became.


    She decided she would never use the card he had given her.


    Because she knew someone from the Spencer family would know if she used it, especially when Sean engraved her name on the card.


    However, something sparked her curiosity, ¡¯Who was Sean asked to send this card to?¡¯


    Bella was aware of how hard it was for Sean to get in touch with his family.


    If he had asked one of his family members to issue an exclusive and rare Black Card for her, Bella would have been assured that the people he sent were not random.


    After a few more minutes of thinking, Bella pulled out her cell phone. She texted Stefan, asking him to check the identity of the person who sent her the package.


    Not long after, they arrived at Mogul Mega Mall. The Vietnamese restaurant is located on the fifth floor. This is not a fancy restaurant with a VIP room; they had to eat in the hall like most people.


    Luckily, the three arrived after lunchtime, and the restaurant wasn¡¯t too full. They decided to choose a corner table.


    Bella let Sam and Leo order for them as she sat at the table alone, waiting for them. A few moments later, his cell phone vibrated.


    As Stefan¡¯s name appeared on her phone screen, her face lit up with a smile.


    "Stefan, have you got the person¡¯s identity?" Bella asked excitedly.


    "Yes, sister Bella. The woman who delivers the present for you is actually Amanda Sepencer¡¯s assistant. Do you want to hear her identity? I mean... Amanda Spencer?"


    When Bella heard Spencer¡¯s name, she could feel her blood run cold. She had heard Amanda¡¯s name before but didn¡¯t remember who she was.


    "Yes. Please tell..."


    "She is actually the youngest sister of your current president, Mr. Jayson Spenser. Amanda Spencer manages the Spencer Family business. I will email you her detailed information." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella could only say, "Mhm...." she was too shocked to realize that Sean had asked her aunt to issue the black card for her.


    "Do you need any other info, sis!?"


    "No... I didn¡¯t need anything," Bella finally replied after a few seconds in silence, still trying to manage her shock.


    "Alright, I will hang up now..."


    "Ugh, wait, Stefan... Please make sure Stellar Entertainment¡¯s news is still on track."


    "Don¡¯t worry, my beautiful sister..." Stefan laughed. "What about the news about Laura Kiels? Do you need me to release them now?" He asked enthusiastically.


    "No! Wait until the right time. I will tell you later..." Bella immediately stopped him. She didn¡¯t need it yet.


    Bella ended the call after she talked with Steffan about a few more things.


    Not long after, she received detailed information about Amanda Spencer.


    After reading Amanda Spencer¡¯s profile enough to make Bella¡¯s knee feel like tofu.


    She can¡¯t believe Sean has put her in trouble now.

 Chapter 155: Jessica Knows Bella’s Office

    While Bella and the others enjoy their late lunch at a Vietnamese restaurant, a black luxury sedan is parked opposite the Quantum Capital building.


    Jessica Sinclair looked tensely at the Quantum Capital building, waiting for someone she needed to see to appear from its lobby.


    However,


    Jessica Sinclair had already waited almost two hours but didn¡¯t see anyone she wanted to see.


    "Are you sure that woman works in that place?" Jessica asked the chauffeur without taking her eyes off the Quantum Capital Building.


    "Yes, madam. That¡¯s what we heard from Miss Laura Kiels. Ms. Donovan works in that building," the chauffeur replies politely.


    "But where is she? Why can¡¯t we spot her coming out of the building?"


    The chauffeur glanced in the rearview mirror in disbelief.


    How could he know that? After all, it wasn¡¯t time for an employee to go home¡ªit was only 2 p.m.


    "Madam, I will ask someone to look at Ms. Donovan. We will inform you once we confirm she is working in the building. You don¡¯t have to wait here¡­" the chauffeur said, feeling sorry for his madam.


    "Well, I guess that¡¯s what we should¡¯ve done instead of wasting two hours of my precious time, was it? But it¡¯s my fault. You¡¯re only my chauffeur. I shouldn¡¯t expect anything intelligent from you. Okay, drive me home now."


    Jessica sighed loudly and evidently condescended toward her chauffeur, implying her disappointment in him. She also felt tired after waiting for Bella to appear from the building, but she had not yet appeared.


    During the wait, she tried to call Bella several times without being prevailed. It seemed like that damned girl had blocked her number.


    Just before the driver drove the car, the driver saw someone familiar walk out from the main entrance and now standing in the outer lobby of the Quantum Capital building.


    "Madam," he turned to see Jessica in the back row. "I think that woman there is Ms. Donovan¡­"


    Jessica hurriedly turned her gaze to the Quantum Capital building. She could clearly see Bella standing near the main entrance, waiting for someone.


    Soon, a man approached; after a short talk, they entered the building side by side.


    Jessica knew that man and had seen him with Bella at the Sushi Tei restaurant a few days before.


    "She is indeed working there," Jessica says in a frosty voice, and her expression slowly turns displeased.


    After she saw Bella enter the building and vanish from her line of sight, Jessica looked at her chauffeur again.


    "Assign someone from my security team to follow her. I need to know where she lives. Also, find out which company she works for and what her position is..." she ordered.


    Jessica needs to find out whose child Tristan is carrying. She is suspicious that the child may be her grandson, which worries her. She wants to ask Tristan, but she restrains herself from calling him. Their last dispute drifts them apart.


    She had no chance but to investigate Bella herself. This girl was starting to worry her.


    "Yes, Madam, I will tell the security staff about your instruction." The chauffeur answered politely and started driving the car.


    Jessica worries Tristan will hate her more if he finds out about her investigating Bella, so she instructs his chauffeur to find capable people and keep it a secret. She didn¡¯t want her son to hate her even more if he learned about this.


    Soon, the car finally left the area, heading fast to the Sinclair mansion.


    ¡­.


    In the Quantum Capital.


    Bella once again opens the files Stefan sent her about Amanda Spencer.


    After Bella read all the complete reports, she could only sigh deeply, feeling pressured by Amanda Spencer.


    Apart from her noble image, Amanda is also active in social work as a philanthropist. She is also a great businesswoman who rules a few vast companies the Spencer Group owns. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What suprised Bella, Amanda was actualy the CEO of one of the biggest entertainment agencies in this country, S99 Entertainment Agency.


    Because of her involvement in business and social activity, Amanda Spencer is the second family member to regularly appear on media covers¡ªthe number one being Sean¡¯s father, Jayson Spencer, the current president of the country.


    Imagine how powerful and noble the Spencer Family is, which gets Bella on her nerves. Her most significant worries about starting a relationship with Sean are her status as a single mother and his noble family status.


    "Gosh! How could I be involved with this family?" Bella sighs deeply as she closes her laptop.


    She turns her chair, looking at the scenery outside while trying to calm her mind.


    Many thoughts are now filling Bella¡¯s mind, especially about Amanda Spencer. She was sure that Amanda would not just follow Sean¡¯s request; she might as well try to investigate her identity.


    "Sean, you know?" Bella continued to talk alone to vent her frustration. "...this is not the right move. And... Did you know that you have gotten me into trouble?"


    Bella could guess she couldn¡¯t avoid meeting Amanda Spencer soon.


    ...


    After a few minutes, drowned in her thoughts, suddently, something crossed her mind. She turned her chair back to face her work desk and grabbed her cell phone.


    Her face turned tense when she remembered something.


    "Sister Bella," Stefan¡¯s hoarse voice came from the other end, making Bella feel sorry for him. She had completely forgotten that it was already late at night in Stefan¡¯s place.


    "Do you need something urgently?" He asked.


    "Stefan, sorry. Did I wake you up?"


    A soft chuckle could be heard from the other end, "Yeah, you did. But it¡¯s fine... for my sister Bella, it doesn¡¯t matter."


    Bella smiled faintly, hearing his sweet words.


    "Stefan, can you find out who is searching for my identity?"


    "Of course I can. You need that information now?"


    "No, I¡¯m not in a rush. Go back to sleep. You can do that tomorrow."


    "Alright, I will inform you soon."


    "Thanks, Stefan."


    "Anything else?"


    "No. Bye!" Bella ended the call immediately. She didn¡¯t want to interrupt Stefan¡¯s sleeping time more than it should.


    After Bella hung up the phone with Stefan, suddenly her phone rang again.


    Despite being confused, she immediately picked up the phone when she saw Tristan¡¯s name on the screen.

 Chapter 156: Someone Stalking

    Despite being confused, she immediately picked up the phone when she saw Tristan¡¯s name on the screen. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Bella, can we talk? I hope I¡¯m not interrupting anything." Tristan asks, worried that she is in the middle of a meeting.


    "You¡¯re very fortunate with your timing. You¡¯d have interrupted my meeting if you called five minutes ago. What is it?"


    "Really? Thank God for that. Yeah, it¡¯s about this afternoon. I don¡¯t think I can accompany you home, Bella. I¡¯m really sorry for that. I have a last-minute meeting, and I can¡¯t push it back..." he said apologetically.


    Bella could sense Tristan¡¯s sincere tone.


    Tristan said, "But don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll send my car and my driver to pick you up. But, Bella, I need your help with something... Would you mind saying something nice to our son about my absence from attending his piano test?"


    He would go home with her if he could postpone this sudden meeting for tomorrow. However, this time, he couldn¡¯t avoid it.


    "I see. Okay, I¡¯ll tell Dax you¡¯ve tried your best to come, but sometimes work happens," Bella said. But when she heard him let out a long sigh, she continued. "You don¡¯t need to worry. Dax will understand. And you don¡¯t need to send your driver either.


    I have Sam. He can drive me home..."


    "O yeah. I forgot about Sam," he said, smiling before continuing, "Thank you, Bella. I really appreciate your good words to Dax. I¡¯m sorry I won¡¯t be able to see Dax¡¯s first weekly test."


    "It¡¯s fine; Dax would understand. Ugh, Tristan, well..." Bella hesitates to express her thoughts.


    "What it¡¯s?" Tristan ask, confused when he notice her reclucant.


    "I just want to say that from now on, you don¡¯t have to drive me anymore. Someone has been watching us, taking our pictures, and even trying to blackmail me. If your mother sees that picture... I hate to think what she will do about that. Do you agree??"


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything immediately, but Bella could feel he must be angry and frustrated.


    "I hope you didn¡¯t break your promise, Tristan." She continued after Tristan spoke. "You need to stop driving me around. People are watching, and I don¡¯t like the possible consequences."


    "Hmm¡­.If you want me to do that, I will force myself to accept it even though it¡¯s really¡­hard for me to be away from you."


    "Thank you..." Bella said, her tone obviously sounding relieved. Her smile slowly appeared from the corner of her lips. She waits for this, stopping Tristan from acting as her driver.


    Tristan chuckled softly and asked, "Are you that excited that I didn¡¯t pick you up from work?" His tone was casual, but there was a hint of disappointment.


    "No. Of course not. I just feel worried..." She answers quickly while scolding herself inwardly to make it obvious that she is happy. Gosh!


    "Alright, we will talk about it later at home."


    "Mhm," Bella could only respond that.


    After talking a few things, Bella finally ended the call and continued her work.


    ****


    In the afternoon,


    After hours of reading files and attending online meetings with her office in another city, Bella tried to rest her eyes on the way to her house. She felt exhausted.


    However, soon after she closed her eyes, Sam¡¯s voice suddenly startled her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, boss, if I starled you..." Sam meets her gaze in the rearview mirror.


    "It¡¯s fine. What is it?" She asked while sitting straight.


    "It looks like someone is following our car," Sam said. He rechecked the rearview mirror and saw a black city car following their car. The vehicle discreetly followed them since leaving the Quantum Capital building. However, Sam is too experienced to miss it. He became aware of the stalking car a few minutes after he picked up Bella.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She immediately turned to look behind her, and she saw the car Sam had mentioned.


    "What are you going to do, boss?" Sam asked seriously. When he saw her facing forward again, he saw she was thinking about something.


    Bella glances at Sam in her calm expression. Still, inwardly, she feels curious to know the person who has the audacity to follow her.


    "Are you sure that person is following us?" Bella asked.


    "Yes, I¡¯m positive," Sam answered firmly. "I took an unusual route and turns, but the car still followed us..." He continues.


    While turning his attention back to the road ahead, he chose another route with much more traffic to make it harder for the car behind to follow. However, somehow, the car still managed to follow their vehicle. He became more convinced that the car behind was tailing them and that the driver was an experienced one, too.


    "I see," Bella¡¯s smile turned sour. She wasn¡¯t sure who the person behind their car was, but she started to guess some names. "Sam, can you stop by the gas station? Let¡¯s check whether the car is still following us or not."


    "Oh, you want us to stop and catch the stalking car, Boss? You got it."


    Before long,


    Their car stopped at one of the nearest gas stations.


    While Sam casually filled the car¡¯s tank with gas, Bella glanced behind her for the stalker¡¯s car.


    It turns out that what Sam said was true. The stalker¡¯s car also entered the gas station and is now joining the queue even though it is not directly behind their vehicle.


    Soon after, Sam returned and drove the car, leaving the gas station.


    "Do you want them to follow us?" Sam offered. He planned to deal with them rather than try to avoid them, but he couldn¡¯t do it without Bella¡¯s permission.


    "There¡¯s no need for that now. I have to get home soon, Sam..." Bella answered. She had promised Dax that she would come home early and watch his piano performance.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to waste time finding out the stalker.


    "You were able to escape their tailing, right?" She asked Sam.

 Chapter 157: Proud Mommy

    Bella didn¡¯t want to waste time finding out the stalker.


    "You were able to escape their tailing, right?" She asked Sam.


    "You bet I can, Boss. That¡¯s easy." Sam reply her with a proud smile.


    Soon, their car was speeding in the Little Heaven direction, maneuvering slickly among the crowded road. After several sudden turns left and right, Sam drove the car on the much less congested route. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella looked back, all she saw was an empty street, and she no longer saw the suspicious vehicle, which relieved her.


    A few minutes later,


    Bella took out her cell phone. She sent a series of texts to Stefan. She asked him to hack into the CCTVs along the road her car had just taken and investigate the person tailing her car.


    In her mind, only two people had the motivation and means to do that.


    The first person was Laura Kiels. That woman would surely hate her even more when she found out who Quantum Capital¡¯s CEO was


    The second person who could do that was, of course, Andreas Corby.


    Bella was sure Andreas would also be the only person with access to Laura and would undoubtedly tell Laura about her.


    Bella still clearly remembered Andreas¡¯ gaze the last time they met; That gaze would only come from someone who looks at someone else and despises what he sees. And Bella could sense he hated her a lot. Andreas saw her as if he was holding a knife and was going to thrust it into her gut.


    Gosh!


    After sending a text to Stefan, Bella sighed and gazed out of the car, pondering the many questions in her mind.


    ***


    Arriving home, Bella rushed to the piano room.


    She saw Noora outside the piano room, pacing back and forth, looking tense. From Noora¡¯s expression, Bella could tell her late arrival had stressed out that poor woman.


    She walked faster towards Noora, "I¡¯m late, aren¡¯t I?" she asked apologetically.


    "Thank goodness you¡¯re here, miss. Hurry, hurry! Young Master Dax is about to take his Piano-Practical Grades," said Noora as she opened the door to let Bella into the room. After Bella sat in the back near the door, Noora sat beside her.


    Bella smiled at her son as he spotted her arrival, nodding for him to return to focus on the piano. At the same time, his teacher gave him a musical score to play.


    She also spots her grandpa and Nick sitting on the other side of the room. After Bella gave her grandpa a small greeting, she returned to focus on her son again.


    Bella felt proud and grateful to see her little son growing fast and adapting quickly to daily activities in the new city.


    If only they had returned to this city sooner, Dax¡¯s talent would have developed more quickly in any aspect. When they lived in northern Sweden, they did not have this privilege. They lived in the middle of the forest, and private teachers rarely came to their house to teach Dax.


    Although Bella had arranged for a music tutor, Dax¡¯s progress was slow because the tutor only came twice a month.


    Bella felt warm inside her heart as she watched Dax master his piano lesson in just a few days. Now, as he prepared to do his practical grade, she was grateful for his progress, even though it was only for personal enjoyment and not professional purposes.


    "Miss, I feel so proud of young Master Dax. He is incredibly diligent in his studies, never once complaining or refusing to learn, even when tired. And what¡¯s more, he has mastered all the lessons he has learned so quickly. All of his teachers compliment him on his genius-level abilities." Noora whispered.


    Bella¡¯s eyes filled with tears, feeling deeply moved by Dax¡¯s dedication to his education. She nodded in agreement with Noora.


    She also realized how quickly her son was developing. Sometimes, she even worried that Dax¡¯s development was below average because he disliked speaking to people he didn¡¯t know.


    However, anyone who had a chance to talk to Dax, including Tristan, always said his development was not below average. Dax is way above it¡ªhe possibly is a Polymath, a prodigy in various fields.


    ...


    As Dax¡¯s piano-practical grade was coming to an end, Bella¡¯s cell phone vibrated. She quickly looked at the phone screen and was excited to see it was Stefan. He told her that he had sent two files to her email.


    She didn¡¯t have time to check the files, but reading Stefan¡¯s text was enough to make her nervous.


    [Stefan] Sister, three people are trying to investigate you.


    [Stefan] The first and second are Jessica Sinclair and Amanda Spencer.


    [Stefan] For the third one, it¡¯s a bit strange. Dark Skull, an underground organization, is trying to dig up your information.


    ¡¯Dark Skull?¡¯ Bella muttered under her breath.


    She had never heard of that name before. Still, judging by the fact that this was an underground organization, she believed it would come at her with wicked intentions.


    After putting aside thoughts of Dark Skull, Bella turned her attention to a file containing information about the person who had followed her car earlier.


    Bella was thrilled to check the files, but she didn¡¯t have time to do it now when she saw Dax approaching her. She stood from her seat and smiled happily at her son.


    "Oh. My dear Dax... you¡¯re doing a great job. You know what, baby?" Bella, leaning closer, looked into his eyes, "Mommy is so proud of you..."


    "Thank you, Mom," Dax said with a smile. Bella couldn¡¯t help but pull him into her embrace. "Mommy, my teacher wants to talk to you," Dax whispered, causing Bella to release her hug.


    After Bella saw Dax leave the room, she approached Dax¡¯s piano teacher.


    "Thank you for properly guiding Dax to learn to master the piano, Mr. Thomson," said Bella as she shook Oliver Thomson¡¯s hand.


    "Ms. Donovan, your son Dax is an exceptionally talented pianist. Despite having only a few lessons with me, he has already mastered the techniques and perfectly played the score I gave him. I am amazed by his progress and can guarantee that he will become a great pianist if he continues to pursue piano studies seriously." Dax¡¯s teacher, Mr.


    Oliver Thomson, couldn¡¯t hide his admiration for Dax¡¯s exceptional abilities, even when Dax was still four and a half years old.

 Chapter 158: Finding Who Follows Her

    Hearing Oliver Thomson¡¯s extravagant compliment made Bella even more proud of her son. "Thank you, Mr. Thomson. I appreciate it."


    "Ms. Donovan, I wanted to inform you that a piano competition will be held in the city in two weeks. I suggested that Dax participate in the competition, as I believe he has the potential to do well..."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. So far, she has only allowed Dax to learn piano for personal purposes, not professional or competition, since she knows Dax is only interested in computer science.


    Bella smiled at Oliver Thomson.


    "Sir, I will talk to my son first. If he agrees, I will support his decision..." Bella politely responds, even though she knows Dax will definitely reject the idea.


    Her son used to say he only studied music to pass the time. He didn¡¯t plan on becoming an expert because he dreamed of becoming a computer science expert.


    After talking a few more things, Oliver Thomson finally excused himself, and she walked him to the entrance.


    ...


    Later,


    Bella heads into the living room to look for Dax but can¡¯t find him and her grandpa. Before she headed to her bedroom to change clothes, Noora appeared.


    "Young Miss, are you looking for a young master Dax?"


    "Yes. Do you know where Dax is?"


    "Yes, Young Miss. Young Master Dax is with Old Master and Old Sinclair in the Library." Noora answer.


    "Oh, Grandpa Sinclair is here too?" Bella was surprised to hear that the older man usually came in the morning and left for his own house before evening. It¡¯s rare to see him here at night.


    "Yes, miss. Old Sinclair came to watch Young Master Dax play the piano, but he arrived only when the play was over. So he decided to join us for dinner."


    "I see. Thank you, Noora," Bella said as she headed towards the Library without waiting for Noora¡¯s reply.


    Bella must greet Lewis Sinclair before heading upstairs to check Stefan¡¯s files.


    When Bella entered the Library, she couldn¡¯t help but smile. She saw her son playing chess with Lewis Sinclair while her grandfather watched them play closely. They seemed so immersed that they didn¡¯t notice when she entered the room.


    She walks there to join them and stands beside Dax to make them finally aware of her.


    "Oh, Bella..." Lewis was happy to see her, but his expression slowly turned sour when he didn¡¯t see his grandson. "You come alone? Where¡¯s Tristan?"


    Bella smiled at Lewis before answering, "Tristan had a sudden meeting, so he couldn¡¯t return with me."


    Lewis¡¯ expression turned displeased hearing that.


    "Bella, that was just his excuse," he said, shaking his head. "...Why did he turn into a busy person all of a sudden, huh?"


    Lewis wished Tristan would only focus on his family instead of the company. Still, it looked like that brat had forgotten his promise. He made a note to scold his grandson when he saw him later.


    "Grandpa Lewis..." Dax suddenly chimed in, looking at Lewis. He continued when he looked at him. Don¡¯t be angry with Dad. He didn¡¯t lie. My Dad actually called me via video earlier. He told me he had promised someone important to meet him, so he must honor his promise.


    And I know that is what a good gentleman does when he makes a promise¡­"


    Lewis¡¯s angry expression slowly faded when he saw Dax before him. Of course, this little man would not lie. Lewis smiled at Dax before asking, "And did your father tell you who this important person who could make him not come to his own son, my sweet Grandson, piano recital?"


    Dax¡¯s eyes lit up, knowing his father would be having dinner with the president of this country. However, when Dax remembered his father telling him to keep it a secret, his happy emotions slowly faded, replacing his usual calm.


    "You don¡¯t know who he will meet?" Isaac, who was curious, also asked.


    Dax glanced at Isaac. He shook his head, unable to answer him.


    Bella smiled, looking at her son ¡ª she could see he was hiding something.


    "Grandpa Lewis, Grandpa... I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t stay here to accompany you¡­" Bella tried to ease the tension by helping her fluttering little son. "I have to go to my room to change..." she said, ruffling Dax¡¯s hair. Dax looked up to see his mother; he smiled at her.


    "Sure, dear. Don¡¯t mind us, we have challenging games to play," Lewis said. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before Bella left, Isaac reminded her not to forget dinner at seven. He had noticed that she had forgotten to have dinner with them lately, as she often fell asleep after returning from the office. Isaac could see how exhausted she was from working nine to five.


    "Sure, Grandpa," Bella said with a meaningful smile before leaving the room.


    When she arrived at her bedroom, Bella didn¡¯t bother to change her clothes but immediately went to her desk and turned on her laptop.


    Stefan has sent her a couple of files about her request to check the information of the person following her. After a few minutes of reading the file, her expression slowly turns dark.


    "Jessica Sinclair!?" Bella whispered while shaking her head. She can¡¯t believe that woman already knows her office.


    How could she know that?


    Bella believes no information about her will appear on the company database or the internet if someone tries to search her name.


    Did someone tell her about it?


    Or was it just coincident she saw her near Quantum Capital?


    She was completely puzzled.


    "Tsk... Tsk... Why do you look so interested in knowing where I live?"


    Bella was grateful that Tristan had a sudden meeting. Otherwise, Jessica will find out that they actually live in the same area. Bella couldn¡¯t imagine what would happen if that evil woman knew¡ªshe might come to this place to make a fuss.


    Gosh!


    After a few minutes, Bella set aside Jessica Sinclair¡¯s case. She opened another file about three people attempting to find her identity.

 Chapter 159: Dark Skull

    Bella set aside Jessica Sinclair¡¯s case. She opened another file about three people attempting to find her identity.


    She knew about Jessica Sinclair and Amanda Spencer but was confused about Dark Skull.


    She had never heard of that name before and had never encountered them.


    ¡¯What and why are they trying to find anything about me?¡¯


    This is the biggest question that now fills her mind. The unknown reason for their action in digging for information about her also caused anxiety for Bella.


    Bella opened the information about Dark Skull, and what she found out shocked her.


    Dark Skull was an underground organization. Mafia organization. They are notorious for their involvement in illegal activities, such as the unlawful sale of drugs and firearms.


    However, many people are unaware of their illegal activity. Dark Skull is hiding under the company name the Dark Roses Group. They dominate the country¡¯s illicit nightlife business, with numerous clubs, bars, and casinos under the same name and branches nationwide.


    "What kind of information about me they are looking for? What is their end game?" Bella wonders, continuing to read the files to learn more about Dark Skull.


    ...


    After reading the report about the Dark Skull organization, Bella took a deep breath and stood up from her seat.


    She walked towards the window and looked at the dark sky while thinking. However, not long after, she heard a light knock on the door. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella glanced at her watch, it was already seven p.m.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but scold herself because she was too preoccupied with elaborating on the files, and she had completely forgotten about dinner. Now, she felt worried that her grandfather would scold her.


    Noora appears behind the door and reminds her about dinner.


    "Miss, I thought you slept again."


    "No, I was just too engrossed in the file I was reading and lost track of time for dinner." She smiled apologetically.


    Noora smiles back at her, "They haven¡¯t started dinner, Miss. They all wait for you..."


    Bella asks Noora to inform the others to start dinner without her. She will join them several minutes later. After she has finished freshening up. Then, she rushes to change her casual home clothes and joins the others.


    Arriving at the dining room, Bella was surprised that they hadn¡¯t started eating but were waiting for her, making her even more regretful.


    After apologizing to the grandpas and Dax, they all start to dine.


    At dinner, Isaac chats with Lewis. Meanwhile, Bella and Dax quietly enjoyed their dinner.


    However, even though Bella seemed to have enjoyed her dinner, she still thought about the Dark Skull Organization in the back of her mind. She kept thinking about them. Setting a plan to discover their motives for gathering information about her.


    Until her last bite, Dark Skull still puzzled her. She can¡¯t fathom any reason for any criminal organization approaching her. And she never fears her adversaries when she knows their reasons. This one is different. This one is entirely unknown.


    Bella decides to discuss this matter with Sam. He might know about Dark Skull with his background and past experiences as a member of this country¡¯s military special force team.


    ...


    After dinner, Isaac and Lewis continued talking again in the living room. Meanwhile, Bella accompanied Dax, who was watching television in the corner of the living room.


    Bella uses this opportunity to tell Dax about her business trip visiting Nova City. She tells him she will take him with Aunt Noora to Nova City.


    "Really, mommy!? You will take me for your business trip?" Dax asked excitedly. He couldn¡¯t hide his excitement, especially since his mother told him she had rented a beach house for them to stay in temporarily for a week.


    "Isn¡¯t that amazing, baby? You, me, and Aunt Noora stay at a beach house for a week...!"


    "YEAH! That is amazing, Mommy. So, when will we fly there?"


    He read about Nova City on the internet. It boasts beautiful beaches and a warmer temperature than the capital.


    "Uncle Leo already arranged everything so that we will fly there the day after tomorrow."


    "That fast?" Dax was slightly suprised. He thought they would go there next week. "What about my private lessons?"


    "Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve asked Aunt Noora to postpone this week¡¯s private classes to next week..." Bella explained.


    Dax nods while smiling widely. He can¡¯t hide his happiness knowing he will have another visit to a sandy beach again.


    Later,


    After chatting about Nova City, Dax returned to watching a space documentary on the television. However, before long, something crossed his mind.


    He looked at his mother, who was typing on her cell phone.


    "Mommy, how about daddy? Will he join us on this trip?" he asked curiously.


    Bella was stunned to hear Dax¡¯s question. She hadn¡¯t told Tristan about her plans since this was related to her company.


    However, after hearing Dax¡¯s question, Bella thinks she should tell him because she will bring Dax with her for a week.


    "Baby, I was planning to visit Nova City because of my work," Bella smiled as she rubbed Dax¡¯s back gently, "...and I think your daddy will be too busy to come with us. He has a lot of work to do. He might not have time to fly to Nova City with us."


    When Bella saw the disappointed look on his chubby face, she hurriedly added, "But, tonight, I will tell your Dad about our plans. Let him decide himself. If he has time, he can visit us at our beach house. Agree?"


    Dax¡¯s eyes gradually brightened as he nodded, "That¡¯s a great idea, Mom. I hope Dad has time. I mean, he had missed my Piano Recital tonight. But a couple of days with Dad on the beach would be awesome. Also, I want to go fishing in the sea with him. Dad once promised to take me to the sea if the weather got warmer..."


    Bella was amazed at how happy Dax had been discussing his future holiday plans with Tristan.


    Initially, Bella didn¡¯t want Tristan to follow them. But, after seeing her son¡¯s beaming eyes, she began hoping that Tristan would join them in Nova City. Seeing Dax fully enjoy spending time with his Dad would be priceless.

 Chapter 160: Night Walk (1)

    As the night grew late, Lewis bid farewell and headed home. Dax also told Bellas he felt drowsy, and after a good night¡¯s kiss, he went upstairs to sleep.


    Bella heads back to her bedroom to call Stefan and discuss the tasks she needs him to complete.


    However, after she changes into her nightgown and is about to call Stefan, Tristan¡¯s name flashes on her cell phone screen before she can dial Stefan¡¯s number. She checks the time before picking it up. It is 10:30 pm. Her hand stops to answer Tristan¡¯s call.


    Bella decided not to pick up the phone because it was too late for her to pick it up, right?


    She feels relieved when the ringtone stops, but a text from him later almost chokes her.


    [Tristan] I could see your light still on, Bella (Smile Emoji)


    [Tristan] May I come in? I hope we can talk in person for a bit.


    Bella sighed deeply as she looked out her window and saw him waving at her.


    ...


    She rushed down after putting on her sneakers and was surprised that the first floor was already dark. Only a few yellow lamps in the corner were still on.


    No one was there, only her, as the workers who usually clean the house already finished their job, and by now, they all rested in their own room.


    She felt strange. This was the first time she had come to this floor this late, and she was worried that her grandfather would catch her meeting Tristan this late.


    ¡¯Gosh! Why do I feel like a teenager who will meet her boyfriend secretly?¡¯ She feels amused.


    Bella continued walking towards the main door, trying not to make any sound. However, before she opened the door, her hand stopped as she realized she was only wearing her nightgown, forgetting to wear her coat.


    She was reluctant to go out but too lazy to change upstairs.


    ¡¯He just wanted to talk for a moment, right?¡¯ Bella wondered as she opened the door. She was taken aback when she saw Tristan standing right before the door.


    "Hi... Tristan," Bella greeted him. When she saw his handsome face closely, her heart started to make weird sounds again.


    Badam!


    Badam! S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella distracts her mind while turning her gaze to the elsewhere, trying to calm her racing heart. But she could feel her cheeks warmer by the second.


    "You may speak now, Tristan. And you had better hurry because I am sleepy," she said without seeing him and acting like she felt bothered by his presence.


    Tristan smiles as he sees her blushing. He removes his black coat and drapes it over her shoulders smoothly and calmly without a word or even a sound. He even breathes so calmly, as if he was doing meditation. Deep inside Tristan¡¯s mind, that is precisely what he was doing, meditating to calm his overly exciting feeling.


    When she finally returned her gaze to him, Tristan said, "Bella, the sky is clear, and the night¡¯s breeze felt invigorating. Let¡¯s enjoy it with a small walk..." He began walking toward his garden without giving her a chance to refuse.


    Bella was left speechless as she watched him walk away. She wanted to refuse, but when she looked at his long coat, now almost buried in her body, and felt his familiar fresh mint fragrance, her mind and body defeated her vanity and prejudice.


    She closed the door behind her and started walking, following Tristan. But she deliberately didn¡¯t want to match his step, so she walked two steps behind him.


    They walked in silence for several minutes. Arriving at his garden, Tristan turned onto the terrace near the swimming pool and sat on the rattan garden chair. Bella followed him; she sat opposite him.


    As Bella looked around the garden, she was enchanted by its peaceful atmosphere and the charming colored lights on the roof. What made her even more stunned by this garden at night was the yellow lights on the ground created a romantic atmosphere.


    "Oh, I think the temperature just dropped a few degrees since I¡¯m coming. Are you freezing? We can talk inside my house if you¡ª"


    "I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just a bit cold, but nowhere near freezing. Thanks to your warm coat, also¡­the walks make it even less cold¡­" Bella interjected. She feared her mind would betray her again and agreed to enter his house. At this time, entering his house might lead to something she would regret later.


    "Are you sure?"


    "Mhm. And now that we¡¯re walking, you might want to start talking, Tristan...I can see there¡¯s something you want to say to me¡­" she answered, trying to speak as calmly as possible.


    Tristan smiled before apologizing, "I¡¯m sorry if I seem to insist on taking you to walk as a way to talk to you, Bella¡­I¡­I don¡¯t see any way else."


    Bella, "...."


    She gave him an annoyed look. She couldn¡¯t believe this man had lured her outside to enjoy a night walk when what he really wanted was just to talk.


    How sly!


    Bella opened her mouth a few times and wanted to scold him, but somehow, no words came out from her lips. She could only take a deep sigh and turn her gaze, looking at the lonely moon in the dark sky, ignoring him.


    "You know what, Bella?" Tristan¡¯s soft voice broke the silence. "We always met in the evening almost daily for the last few days. And, suddenly, today, we couldn¡¯t meet. Then, during my most important meeting today, I could feel something big inside me was missing when I couldn¡¯t see you this evening. That¡¯s why I rushed here, even though my important meeting guest asked me to stay.


    I hope you can understand and not be angry with me..."


    Hearing Tristan¡¯s sincere and sad tone, Bella felt slightly wavered.


    She didn¡¯t respond, but then something else crossed her mind¡ªsomething that had bugged her during dinner. She needed to talk to him about two crucial things.

 Chapter 161: Night Walk (2)

    Bella needed to talk to Tristan about two crucial things.


    She looked at him again, "It¡¯s fine¡­I wasn¡¯t angry with you. Maybe it¡¯s because I felt tired after a full day at work."


    His eyes lifted when he heard her soft forgiveness, "Thank you, Bella."


    "Well, Tristan, I have something I need to tell you," Bella said, her expression slowly turning gloomy when she remembered Jessica Sinclair knew her office and started investigating her.


    "Sure. Go ahead..."


    Bella tells him that her car was tailed after leaving the office this afternoon, which shocks him.


    "That¡¯s a terrifying experience, Bella. Are you okay?" Tristan asked worriedly while looking at her closely as if he wanted to check her whole body.


    "As you can see, I¡¯m fine... I¡¯m fortunate that Sam was alert when we were being followed, so we could get here safely," Bella was amused by his reaction.


    "Thank god," Tristan feels relieved. However, his face stiffened again when he asked, "Did you know who¡¯s tailing your car?"


    Bella took a deep breath before telling him, "I have done some quick but deep research through every CCTV that my car passed, and I could positively indicate that your mother is likely the one behind them." She paused when she saw his face immediately turn red as if all the blood had rushed under the skin of his face.


    ¡¯Mother, why did you do that?¡¯ Tristan gritted his teeth, angry, hearing his mother try to follow Bella despite his warning not to do anything about her.


    "I came to that conclusion because the driver of the tailing car was a close friend of your mother¡¯s most trusted driver," Bella continued after she saw him looking angry.


    Tristan remained silent and simply gazed at her, his expression filled with regret.


    "I¡¯m not entirely sure how much your mother knows about me, but I suspect she knows where I work. Now, it appears she¡¯s also trying to find out where I live," Bella¡¯s voice expressed concern. "You remember my concerns, don¡¯t you, Tristan?"


    Tristan took Bella¡¯s hand suddenly, surprising her. She blinked, looking at their hands together.


    Before she could say something, Tristan spoke.


    Tristan sounded confident as he reassured Bella that his mother wouldn¡¯t harm her or Dax, even if she learned about her and their son. He promised to protect her no matter what.


    When Bella heard how sincerely he said those words, she could feel the glacier in her heart slowly melting.


    Bella lowered her gaze to see at their hand and said, "Thank you." She let him hold her hand because she needed it. She¡¯s not a superwoman who can handle everything; she¡¯s just an ordinary woman who also feels scared and sad.


    This man had apologized many times for his past ignorance, and she was not a woman who would be blinded by their past misunderstandings. She had forgotten about it, even though she couldn¡¯t open her heart to him again.


    However,


    As the days passed, she found herself increasingly unable to ignore his sincere approach.


    After a while, they held hands in silence. Finally, Bella spoke first. "Tristan, I¡¯m flying to Nova City for a business trip, and I plan to take Dax with me..."


    Tristan was surprised to learn about this. He frowned before asking, "For how many days? When are you going to fly there?"


    Bella told him everything about her office trip and vacation with Dax. She also shared how excited Dax was about the trip and hoped Tristan would join them there.


    However, after Bella finished her words, she saw Tristan¡¯s happy and proud smile. She quickly pulled her hand from Tristan¡¯s grasp.


    Bella could tell that Tristan had misunderstood her words. She could see it in his gaze.


    "Tristan, please understand that I do not want you to come to Nova City. It¡¯s Dax who¡¯s insisting on your presence. I wouldn¡¯t have bothered you about our trip if it wasn¡¯t for him," Bella explained, hoping to avoid misunderstandings.


    "I know, I know. I understand what you¡¯re saying, Bella. Don¡¯t worry about it," Tristan said with a reassuring smile.


    "So, are you going with us or not?"


    Tristan¡¯s smile instantly vanished as he remembered that he also had a business trip abroad. He tried to figure out if he could adjust his schedule to join them.


    After fast thinking, he finally responded to her.


    "Of course, I will join you and Dax," Tristan said excitedly, "but I might catch up with you later because I have a business trip abroad in a few days," he said calmly, though inwardly, he felt worried Bella would feel displeased.


    "Sounds perfect, Tristan," Bella said with a smile. She didn¡¯t want him to stay with them the entire week. Spending a day with Dax was already the best for their son.


    He feels relieved hearing that. "Alright, I will ask Dylan to prepare a jet for you to use."


    "Please don¡¯t. If we use your family jet, your parents will find out about us," Bella quickly rejected Tristan¡¯s offer. She prefers to use commercial flights and avoids using the Sinclair Jet. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A thin line appeared on Tristan¡¯s forehead upon hearing her answer. He understood her worries but couldn¡¯t stand the fact that they would use a commercial flight.


    "Bella, I won¡¯t use the Sinclair Jet but my own." His smile reassured her.


    Bella narrowed her eyes at him, suspicious of his answer. Worried that she had heard wrong, she asked again, "Tristan, are you sure you have a private jet? I mean, not your family or company?"


    Tristan said calmly, "I don¡¯t have it now but will buy it tomorrow. I will register the jet under our son¡¯s name with stand-by Pilots and stewardesses. And all expenses paid. That way, you and Dax can use it anytime you want to travel together."


    Bella was speechless hearing his words.


    She couldn¡¯t resist venting her sarcasm, ¡¯Oh wow, why is this man boasting his wealth to me now!? Tsk! How shameless...¡¯

 Chapter 162: Night Walk (3)

    Bella couldn¡¯t resist venting her sarcasm, ¡¯Oh wow, why is this man boasting his wealth to me now!? Tsk! How shameless...¡¯


    "Are you joking, right?" How could this man lightly say to buy a jet like he bought an ice cream?


    "No. When it¡¯s about you and Dax, never. And, also... I have a friend who sells private jets. He has often begged me to buy one to help boost his sales performance. I¡¯ve always declined his offers, but now I have a reason to buy one as a gift for our son." Tristan said calmly, but Bella almost choked hearing his words.


    ¡¯My goodness... this man was telling the truth. How rich is he? Is it unlimited?¡¯ she wondered, trying to dismiss the idea of counting his wealth.


    When Tristan saw Bella staring at him with her confused gaze, he smiled and explained more.


    "Bella, I¡¯m not going to buy a new jet but a used one. I hope you don¡¯t mind about that. I mean... I can order a new jet for Dax if you find a used jet¡ª"


    "No... No... Of course, I don¡¯t mind," Bella answered quickly, worried that this man would misunderstand again.


    ¡¯Oh my, why does talking to him feel so difficult?¡¯ She could only vent her frustration in her mind. Before continuing her words, "...ugh, Tristan, you can give him what you want. He is your son, after all."


    Bella couldn¡¯t bear to talk to him about this matter. She will never win.


    Speaking of private jets, Bella could actually afford one for herself or Dax. But why should she do that? She rarely flies, and the private plane only charges a monthly fee for service and operating costs. She heard from Jack that he would have to pay around $700K to $1 million annually.


    What a waste!


    Bella would prefer to use that money to invest in a new startup company, earn more profits, or buy shares to receive dividends.


    "Tristan, if you buy a Private Jet for Dax, I expect you to pay the annual service and operating costs¡­" Bella reminded him firmly. It would be a hassle if she had to pay for it.


    Tristan was amused to hear Bella¡¯s worry. When he saw her glaring at him as if scolding him through her gaze, he answered her hastily.


    "You don¡¯t need to think about that, Bella. I have a company that services and maintains private jets in this country. So, any service and maintenance charges on any jet under my name or Dax are part of the company¡¯s Owners¡¯ expenses..."


    Bella silently sighed, aware that involving or mentioning Dax in their conversation would not favor her because Tristan was doing nothing but positive and amazing things for Dax. She nods in agreement with his decision.


    After hearing Tristan¡¯s explanation regarding the used superjet he planned to purchase, Bella began to feel drowsy. She yawned a few times without making a sound.


    Tristan fell silent upon seeing Bella and asked if she was okay.


    "I¡¯m feeling exhausted. I think I should head home now," Bella said as she stood up.


    He stood up and said, "I¡¯m sorry, Bella, for making you tired. Let me walk you home."


    Bella walked silently beside Tristan as they made their way to her house. Once they arrived, Tristan excused himself and headed to his own house.


    After walking a few steps, Tristan turned to face Bella and said, "Good night, Bella. I¡¯ll call you tomorrow." He smiled before continuing to walk.


    "Mmm, goodnight, Tristan Sinclair..." she whispered to herself.


    After watching Tristan walk away, Bella went inside her house. When she reached her bedroom, she was surprised to find his long coat still hanging on her shoulder.


    She chuckled softly.


    "Geez!! How could you forget to return this, Bella?"


    She took off Tristan¡¯s long coat, carefully folded it, and placed it on the sofa.


    Bella tried to remind herself to return his coat tomorrow if they met.


    ****


    Next morning.


    Knowing that the mafia was monitoring her made Bella sleep poorly last night. Even when she tried, she couldn¡¯t ignore this matter.


    When Bella arrived at her office, the first thing on her agenda was to discuss the Dark Skull organization. She invited Sam and Leo to come to her office.


    Not long after,


    Leo arrived at Bella¡¯s office after one of her secretaries told him to. When he entered, he sat across from Bella and looked at Sam, sitting next to him.


    "Morning, Boss. Why did you call us so early?" Leo asked, narrowing his eyes at Bella. He was curious.


    It wasn¡¯t just Leo who was curious and confused; Sam was too. Bella usually comes to the office at ten, but today is different. She already arrives before nine.


    Bella ignores Leo¡¯s question. She turns to Sam and asks, "Have you ever heard of an organization named Dark Skull?"


    Sam¡¯s face suddenly turned pale when he heard that name again. After many years, he was not active in his military team. This was the first time he heard someone say that evil organization. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How do you know about that evil group, Boss?" Sam asked in shock, shocked to learn that Bella knew about the most evil organization he had ever encountered.


    "Do you know them or not?" Bella asked again, ignoring his question. Judging by Sam¡¯s expression, she knew Sam was familiar with them.


    "I know them. They are one of the reasons I retired from the military. I was injured after a secret operation against them. Even then, we succeeded in destroying many parts of the organization, but we failed to capture its top leader. He escaped..." Sam clenched his fists in anger before he explained more about what happened in the past.


    "Wait¡­ Wait¡­ Who the hell is this Dark Skull?" Leo suddenly chimed in, his eyes darting towards Bella and Sam. "Can you guys explain it to me?"


    Bella sighs deeply, "Sam, you tell him."


    Sam immediately told Leo about the Dark Skull organization.

 Chapter 163: The Sentinel Network

    Bella listened silently. However, when she heard Sam¡¯s words, she was stunned because Sam didn¡¯t seem to know that the Dark Skull organization still existed. If Stefan is right, and he likely is, they continue their business, hiding under the Black Rose Group.


    Countless questions now dance through her mind. How could he not know? Doesn¡¯t the government know either? How? Why could Stefan give her such detailed information?


    "Boss, why are you suddenly asking about Dark Skull?" Sam¡¯s question brought Bella out of her thoughts.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer. She looked at Sam for a moment and then at Leo, who now wore the same curious and confused expression as Sam.


    "Damn! Bella, can you please stop scaring us like that?" Leo snapped. He feels thrilled by the tension in the room. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Can you be quiet, Leo?" Sam hissed at Leo. Then he turned to Bella. "Boss, would you mind telling us why now?" he asked politely.


    Bella took a deep breath when she saw Sam almost beat Leo.


    "My trusted sources told me that Dark Skull is investigating me. They¡¯ve been researching anything about me for a couple of days now. This is really puzzling me. Why is this evil organization interested in me? I don¡¯t remember ever meeting people like that in the past..."


    Sam and Leo were left speechless when they heard Bella¡¯s words.


    "My source couldn¡¯t tell me who hired them or if the initiative came from the organization itself. And, Sam, this is why I ask you about them..." she continues.


    "Boss, hold on a second. Something seems off. Although the Dark Skull leader hasn¡¯t been captured since I retired from my unit, I have heard from a reliable source that they no longer exist as a threat. So, even if they still exist, they are probably not a threat to you."


    Bella, "...."


    "Boss, don¡¯t worry too much. If my source is to be trusted, they are just a lowly gang now. I could handle them by myself..." Sam said confidently.


    Bella seemed calm but was internally frustrated because Sam was unaware of the new Dark Skull. It wouldn¡¯t have alarmed Stefan if it had only been a low-key criminal organization.


    "Sam, I trust my source is credible. If my source told me the Dark Skull Organization still exists in this country and has grown bigger than before, I know it must be true."


    "That¡¯s fucking scary, Boss! Are you really sure this organization still exists and is in full motion against you!?" Leo slightly shouted in surprise. "Are you really sure, Boss? Why do they want to know your identity?"


    "I wouldn¡¯t ask you to come here to discuss it if I wasn¡¯t so sure. Also, if I knew what this organization is up to," she said faintly.


    "I see," Leo nods.


    "Are you sure it is bigger than before?" Sam asked. He doubts it. If Dark Skull returns, his former team will surely annihilate them again.


    Sam didn¡¯t say anything about his doubt to Bella because he needed to hear more.


    "Yes. My source wouldn¡¯t alarm me if he saw it as non-threatening. Have you ever heard about the Dark Roses Group?"


    "Boss... So, you mean the Dark Roses have become their new front now?" Sam asked, starting to piece things together.


    "Mhm, that¡¯s what my trusted resource informed me."


    "And the military still permitted them to conduct business in this country? What nonsense is this?"


    Bella looked at Leo when he spoke up. "I¡¯m not entirely sure why, but I¡¯m assuming that the new Dark Skull is hiding effectively and that nobody knows about them yet¡ªnot even the military or your old team, Sam..." she said, glancing over at Sam.


    The light in Sam¡¯s eyes lifts as he responds, "Or they have a powerful backup in this country."


    "If that¡¯s the case, you should be worried, Bella," Leo said, his tension increasing.


    "I need to discuss what I should do now! Like I said before, I didn¡¯t even know their motive to investigate me," Bella said helplessly as she gazed at them.


    "Boss, I can make a few guesses about the motive," Leo smiled mysteriously.


    Bella and Sam turn to see Leo curiously.


    "Speak then!" Bella said curtly.


    "Boss, have you ever met a total stranger person? That person is probably the culprit. Even the mob leader himself. He probably investigated your identity because he was interested in you... I mean, he fell in love with you at first sight."


    Sam, "...."


    Bella, "...."


    "Seriously, Boss... are you sure you never encountered such a man!?"


    "No, of course, I never met such a man! You would know if I have." Bella responded to Leo¡¯s question to her. "Also, what are my chances of encountering a certain evil man? I never go to strange places. I only go to my houses and offices. And you guys were always around me when I was in public places.


    Like when I visited the restaurant."


    Bella took a deep sigh and looked at Leo. She was speechless by his wild imagination.


    Gosh!


    Leo then turned to Sam. "Do you know the name of the mafia leader, Sam?"


    Sam looked at him back and said, "I think his name is Mad Dog!"


    "What the hell? It¡¯s an ugly name for a mob boss. How can he lead a criminal organization with such an ugly name?" Leo said.


    "Leo, stop asking stupid questions to the Boss and me, will you?" Sam asks calmly, but his gaze betrays him; he looks at Leo disdainfully.


    "Ah, it must be a code name code name..." Leo chuckled, seeming not to bothered with Sam¡¯s disdainful gaze.


    "Yeah, short off!" Sam said, ignoring Leo. Then he turned his gaze to Bella: "Boss, should we call Mr. Jack? We need to establish The Sentinel Network in this country to help us accurately assess the possible threat and also help us take proper countermeasures."


    "Wait, do you guys want to hear the other motive?" Leo chimed in, ignoring Bella and Sam¡¯s discussion topic.


    "HELL NO!"


    "HELL NO!"


    Bella and Sam shouted together without looking at Leo.

 Chapter 164: Blamed Stellar Entertainment

    They continued their conversation while ignoring Leo¡¯s funny ideas.


    "Yes, I also thought about it, Sam. Even though I believe Jack will agree to whatever I propose here, I will ask him first for courtesy¡­" Bella agrees with Sam that they must open a Sentinel Network branch office.


    This security and network company operates similarly to a spy network throughout the country in which it is based. It collects and analyzes information to keep on file for future reference, and it also hires capable individuals who could act as guards if needed.


    "Yes. That¡¯s a good idea, Boss. I know Mr. Jack would never reject your proposal." Sam smiles.


    "I know. Sam, you can start recruiting your former army colleagues and take the Director position of the new establishment. You have experience working at the head office, and I know you can handle the operation and management of the Network smoothly.


    Sam was taken aback at Bella¡¯s words.


    "Certainly, Boss. Thank you for your confidence in me. I will immediately begin working on it."


    "Excellent!" Bella answers. Then she looks closely at Leo to ensure he follows the discussion before asking, "Do we have any empty floors in this building, Leo? Can you spare one entire floor discreetly for our plan?"


    "Boss, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll handle everything related to office location and setup," Leo reassures her with a warm and excited smile.


    Leo remained silent when Bella shared more details about her Sentinel Network plan. His silence is because he fully supports Bella¡¯s plan. Moreover, he recognized the need for such a network in this country.


    Leo believed that this Network would play a crucial role in their bigger plan to elevate Quantum Capital¡¯s status to one of the top twenty-five companies in the country.


    After thanking Leo, Bella smiled and got up from her seat. She dismissed them, "You guys can continue working," she said before returning to her own tasks.


    However,


    When Bella opened her laptop, the news she read surprised her.


    The news of Laura Kiels¡¯ decision to withdraw from the entertainment industry and her apology note on social media shocked Bella.


    Laura Kiels stated that she would pay Stellar Entertainment the amount she owed, plus all fines from her client for her faults.


    This surprised Bella even more. She can¡¯t help but took a deep sigh after reading all those articles and A-Netz* comments. They blame Stellar Entertainment while defending Laura Kiels. She already expected this, so she kept her last card to turn the tide.


    "Did Laura really have enough money to go with that scenario?"


    Bella doubts Laura¡¯s ability to pay off her debts since S Jewelry sued her for a large amount of money for settlement.


    After thinking for a while, Bella took the landline and called Leo.


    "Did you read the trending news on the internet?"


    "Yes, I was just about to call you. Why do I feel like this girl might not be telling the truth? I don¡¯t think Andreas Corby would give her enough or even any money. Where did she find the money to pay off her debt?" Leo asked.


    Bella was amazed because Leo shared the same doubts as her.


    After a soft chuckle, Bella asked Leo to confirm with the legal team whether Laura had already settled everything, as it seemed suspicious to her.


    Later, Bella set aside Laura¡¯s affairs and redirected her focus to other matters.


    ....


    Bella quickly texted Jack, asking him to call her when he had free time.


    It didn¡¯t take long before Bella¡¯s cell phone vibrated again. She immediately picked up when she saw Jack¡¯s name appear on her cellphone screen.


    "Wow, Boss... you still awake now?" Bella happily greeted him.


    "Yeah. Thanks to you. Why did you wake me up with such a text? Why do you need me to call you and not the other way around? This better be genuinely urgent." Jack¡¯s voice was hoarse, and he sounded rushed.


    Bella is sure Jack is lying because how could a text notification wake him up? However, if he set his text notifications to a loud song, she might believe it.


    She put aside her curiosity and immediately announced her plans to open a Sentinel Network branch office in Astington. She also told him that she had actually asked Sam to start recruiting.


    After explaining everything, Bella continued, "Jack, I hope you agree with the decision I made before speaking to you."


    A soft chuckle could be heard on the other end, followed by Jack¡¯s earnest voice.


    "Bella, you don¡¯t have to ask me about this. Did you forget why I opened the branch there? It¡¯s because I have full and undoubtful confidence in you, so you can do whatever you want there." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella, "...."


    "I¡¯m serious, alright!"


    He laughs before saying, "Well, my friend, me too. I¡¯m serious. If you need more capital to start a new company, call Harper. Tell her how much money you need to establish a new company there. She will send it to you."


    A smile spreads across her face as she responds, "I don¡¯t need money. I could withdraw cash from the black card you gave me¡­"


    "Are you kidding me? Of course, the money won¡¯t be enough to start a new company," Jack laughed at Bella¡¯s answer.


    "Gosh!! Jack, why did you give me such a small amount of card when I thought the black card was unlimited?"


    Jack patiently explained that the card had limits. It couldn¡¯t withdraw large amounts of money but could buy expensive items like a private jet or an island.


    "I hope you can understand, Bella."


    "Got it. I¡¯ll ask Leo to prepare a proposal for Harper."


    "Nice. Anything else?" Jack asked. He had to go back to bed, or his wife would sleep, and he might not get what he wanted tonight.


    "No," but she paused abruptly when she remembered the Dark Skull organization. "Uh, Jack, on second thought, I might need to ask you about something else."


    "Yes?"


    "Do you know where your brother-in-law is?" Bella asked, suspecting that Andreas Corby may have been the one to hire Dark Skull to investigate her.


    ****


    * A-Netz = Astington Netizen

 Chapter 165: The Person Behind It All

    "Do you know where your brother-in-law is?" Bella asked, suspecting that Andreas Corby may have been the one to hire Dark Skull to investigate her.


    Jack was unsure why she asked, but he still replied, "I heard he was disciplined by both his parents and his wife. They held him accountable for what had happened and asked him not to leave the house for a while. So, after arriving here, he just stayed at home. Why do you want to know?"


    Bella was surprised to hear that Andreas had arrived and stayed in New York. She thought he was still in this country, plotting something terrible to take revenge on her. But it seems she was mistaken.


    "When did he arrive there?" She asked again to make sure.


    "I¡¯m not sure, but I guess he left the day after we fired him. What¡¯s wrong, Bella? Why are you suddenly interested in him? Did he do something to you?"


    Suddenly, Jack¡¯s voice sounded slightly worried as he imagined Andreas seeking revenge against Bella.


    "I¡¯m not sure, Jack. I am only suspicious of something."


    "What is it?"


    "Maybe this sounds crazy, but I think your brother-in-law might have hired a mafia to investigate me," Bella said nonchalantly. However, Jack feels like lightning struck him; he is beyond shocked.


    "Damn that guy! No, you¡¯re not sounding crazy, Bella. I trust your instinct. How dare he take out his anger on you?" Jack couldn¡¯t hold back his anger any longer. "He should know if he has an idea to revenge on you, then I will not take him lightly this time."


    Throughout these past few years, Jack has refrained from taking any action against Andreas Corby. He simply cannot bear to see his wife upset. However, if Andreas were to harm Bella, a dear friend Jack considers a sister he never had, he would not hesitate to take swift and severe action against him.


    Jack continued, "Bella, my patient is now running out. I will no longer consider him a member of my family. I will make sure he receives the punishment he deserves for trying to harm you."


    Bella, "..."


    His words move her, but why does he sound so exaggerated?


    "Oh please, Jack, don¡¯t do something stupid," Bella says, amused by how angry Jack is now. "I didn¡¯t say he¡¯s the actual perpetrator. I was just suspicious. I still need to ask Stefan to investigate further. But if he was in his house right now, I¡¯m starting to assume he couldn¡¯t be the one who hired them."


    Jack was relieved to hear that, but now he worries about Bella¡¯s safety. "Besides Andreas, is there someone else you suspect as well?" he asked, evidently concerned.


    Bella was lost in thought, wondering if she had any new enemies besides Laura, Jessica, and Andreas Corby.


    ¡¯Could there be anyone else?¡¯ She wondered if someone else was involved as she tried to remember.


    Her thoughts drift to her family, and she shivers at the thought of her uncle and brother being connected to such an evil organization. However, she dismisses the idea as impossible since they lack the resources and money to be involved.


    However, just before Bella ended the phone call, she suddenly remembered Sam¡¯s words, saying that he usually encounters the Dark Skull on his missions. Bella suddenly felt goosebumps as a particular face crossed her mind.


    She tightened her grip on her cell phone, wondering how she could have forgotten about him. Her connection with him was enough to make someone curious about her.


    "No. I don¡¯t have¡­" Bella said, even though her mind was now filled with Sean¡¯s face.


    Bella¡¯s mind suddenly became crystal clear, like the thick mist covering her mind had disappeared. Now, she could connect all the dots that had made her restless. After Sean makes phone calls and sends someone to give her a card, the Dark Skull organization starts to dig into her profile.


    It must be because of Sean. If it¡¯s not triggered by Sean, who else could trigger it?


    She still remembers Sean telling her he couldn¡¯t contact their family during the mission because they feared the enemy would find out about them.


    And the timing was perfect. After Sean calls her and sends someone to deliver the gift, the Dark Skull searches for information about her. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking about that is enough to make Bella¡¯s pulse race, and her blood runs cold to know that what Sean feared has become true.


    She couldn¡¯t fathom the level of cruelty the Dark Skull was capable of. However, according to Sam¡¯s information, she knew this evil organization could threaten her, Dax, and maybe her close friends and their family.


    Bella hung up the phone after discussing essential matters with Jack. She stood by the window, her mind in chaos as she thought about the Dark Skull and its connection to Sean.


    Her hand clenched into a fist. She feels angry and worried simultaneously.


    She was angry with herself because she gave Sean hope that their relationship could continue, and she worried that The Dark Skull would harm her and Dax.


    What worried Bella even more was that she had instructed Stefan to investigate Dark Skull and find out why they tried to dig up her information, but Stefan had not yet reported anything.


    Sigh!


    Another minute passed, and suddenly, out of nowhere, she whispered his name, Tristan.


    "Should I tell Tristan about Dark Skull and Sean!?" She feels confused.


    If she told Tristan about this, she could picture his temper flaring up. He might bring up her relationship with Sean, which they always avoid discussing.


    Bella is aware that Tristan knows about her relationship with Sean, but he never once tries to ask. This makes her confused as to why he looks so calm about it.


    ...


    The day went by quickly.


    Before Bella finishes work for the day, she has an important meeting scheduled with Daniel Sullivan, the Director of Corporate Legal. She will be briefed on their progress.


    Daniel Sullivan finally arrived at her office with Leo. She asked them to sit in the sitting area and soon joined them.


    Bella listens in silence as Daniel Sullivan reports that all the legal matters are proceeding smoothly. All the directors have returned the money and assets they had taken from the company.

 Chapter 166: Investigate The Invisible Hands Behind Her

    Bella listens silently as Daniel Sullivan reports that all legal matters are proceeding smoothly. All the directors have returned the money and assets they took from the company.


    Daniel also informed that S Jewelry withdrew its lawsuit against Stellar Entertainment, but they are still suing Laura Kiels. Bella knows Tristan will not help her ¡ª he¡¯s already given her clues to assist her in sending Laura to jail.


    She couldn¡¯t believe Tristan would still be eager to help her, even though she refused the offer more than once. His perseverance and sincere assistance on this matter made her relate more and more to his kindness and caring.


    When Daniel reports about Laura Kiels, her curiosity kicks in for more details.


    ¡¯Does Laura Kiels have enough funds to compensate for the company¡¯s losses due to her negligence?¡¯ This is one of the questions that has consistently appeared on her mind lately. She feels curious.


    "Miss Laura Kiels has paid all her debt and other outstanding liabilities and signed the official non-reversible released and discharged papers. From now on, she is no longer part of Stellar Entertainment," Daniel Sullivan¡¯s explanation surprised Bella. She doesn¡¯t believe Laura Kiels had a lot of money to settle everything quickly.


    ¡¯Did she have hidden funds and assets we didn¡¯t know about?¡¯ She tried to remember if she read Stefan¡¯s report correctly.


    After a long silence, Bella asked, "What about S Jewelry¡¯s lawsuit against her?"


    "Laura Kiels also settled her legal liabilities with them. My people say she paid for everything and started campaigning to clear her name. It seems like she had someone with unlimited funds and resources backing her; from what we could observe on the internet trends, her campaign has seen some initial results. She¡¯s starting to get some A-Netz sympathy."


    "Nah, I doubt they real A-Netz. They are more like buzzers. You know, someone paid those people to write nicely about Laura Kiels and blame our company for making Laura withdraw from the entertainment industry," Leo snarled.


    Daniel Sullivan was stunned to hear how casually Leo said that. He knew such practices were standard in the industry. Still, from the legal perspective, until they had proof, he couldn¡¯t suggest anything like that to Bella.


    "Sir, are you sure? I mean, do you have any proof? If you have, we can clear our company¡¯s name with your proof..." Daniel Sullivan said, worried about the company¡¯s negative image if that was true.


    "Yeah," Leo answered, "No need to worry, Danny. Our Boss will take care of it, right, Boss?" He continued his words in a casual tone while looking at Bella.


    Daniel silently doubted Leo¡¯s words. He looked at Bella, waiting for her reaction.


    "Sure, I¡¯ll take care of it," Bella responded reassuringly. She still had an ace up her sleeve to deal with Laura.


    Bella wasn¡¯t worried about Laura, but what concerned her now was who her powerful backup would be. It wasn¡¯t Tristan, and Andreas Corby couldn¡¯t either, as his wife and parents now restricted his outside house access and the use of his funds and assets.


    "See! Our Boss is the best!" He said proudly while glancing at Daniel Sullivan.


    Leo knew Bella would be the second person in the company to have the privilege of contacting their company hacker to get whatever information she wanted quickly.


    Daniel Sullivan was amazed; he nodded in relief, hearing Bella¡¯s confirmation. At least their company wouldn¡¯t suffer anything from this massive purge of firing so many corrupt directors and even firing their embarrassing actresses and actors.


    "Boss, do you know who helped her? Or at least, can you guess?" Leo asked again. Even though he was suspicious, Jessica Sinclair would help Laura. However, he rejected the thought quickly because the Sinclair Group was still suing Laura.


    Bella shook her head. She was still surprised to learn that Laura Kiels had the resources to settle everything and even started a social media campaign to restore her image.


    Despite her curiosity about the invisible hands that backed and supported Laura, she didn¡¯t dig more about it, at least for the moment. After a few minutes of chatting about another company¡¯s matters, Bella dismissed Daniel Sullivan.


    However,


    Bella asks Leo to stay. She needs to discuss their plan to fly to Nova City tomorrow.


    "Rest assured, Boss. Everything is already planned out. The beach villa where you and Dax will be staying has already been taken care of. Dana, My secretary, has already flown there to prepare everything for our arrival," Leo reassured Bella.


    He knew his Boss was slightly worried about bringing her son on this trip, so he cared for everything to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.


    "Thank you, Leo, for your initiative and hard work."


    Leo chuckled and responded, "It¡¯s fine, Boss. That¡¯s my job." However, he soon remembered something and added, "Oh, right. I have booked a commercial flight for noon tomorrow. Unfortunately, local airlines do not offer first-class seats, and the business class seats are no different than the economy class seats, so the seating might be uncomfortable. I hope you and Dax can endure it.


    But don¡¯t worry; it¡¯s only a three-hour flight."


    Leo actually suggested that they rent a private jet to fly there. The price wasn¡¯t too expensive, but Bella strongly rejected the idea.


    Bella took a deep sigh. "I¡¯m sorry, Leo, but you must cancel your flight booking. We¡¯ll take a private jet," she said casually.


    He was confused when he heard Bella¡¯s words.


    "Wait, wait, Bella... I thought you strongly rejected my idea to rent a jet!? What changed your mind? Seriously, tell me."


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately respond to Leo¡¯s question. Instead, she calmly stood up and walked to her desk to gather her belongings. Once she was ready to leave, she glanced at Leo, who was still seated in his spot.


    When Bella saw his comical expression, she was amused. Leo seemed to be cosplaying as a mannequin, his curious gaze locked on her.


    "Tristan didn¡¯t want his son to fly on a commercial flight, so he bought a private jet that was complete with all the operation and maintenance for Dax against my advice."


    "What the hell... What a loving and wonderful father he is." Leo can¡¯t help but curse and compliment Tristan in the same sentence. He was surprised to hear that Tristan bought a jet for such an excuse.


    "I know, right." Bella chuckled as she walked to the elevator, "I will go home now, Leo. I need to pack..."


    Leo ran after her, "Boss, would you mind asking boss Tristan to adopt me? I¡¯m willing to be his son."


    Bella chuckled, hearing his silly words.


    As the elevator doors slowly closed, she said, "Don¡¯t be shameless, Leo. I like you as it is."


    Leo, "¡­"


    She continues, "Tristan¡¯s assistant may call you about our flight schedule. See you tomorrow."


    Leo immediately returned to his room and called to cancel the plane tickets.


    Not long after, he got a call from an unknown number.


    ¡¯Tristan¡¯s assistant?¡¯ He wonders and finally picks up the call.


    "Hello, Mr. Smith, I¡¯m Dylan Cooper, Tristan Sinclair¡¯s assistant. Did Ms. Bella tell you about me?"


    "Hello, Mr. Cooper... Yes, she told me you would call me about the private jet..." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 167: Fly To Nova City

    The day Bella, Dax, and Noora fly to Nova City finally arrives.


    However, before they leave the house, a drama unfolds.


    As Bella stepped out of the house, she noticed two similar cars parked outside. In front of her was Tristan¡¯s car, which was all set to take them to the airport. Meanwhile, her grandfather¡¯s driver was loading their luggage into the car parked behind Tristan¡¯s.


    Bella paused before walking towards Tristan¡¯s car, her eyes fixed on her grandfather chatting with Nick by the vehicle. Both looked dashing in their formal travel outfits.


    "Will Grandpa fly to his hometown, East City?" Bella muttered softly, but Dax, standing beside her, could hear her voice clearly.


    "No, Mommy. Grandpa and Uncle Nick will come with us flying to Nova City." Dax said excitedly, then ran toward his father.


    Bella, "..."


    After nodding at Tristan as if asking him to wait, Bella walked over to her grandfather.


    "Are you going to fly to your hometown, Grandpa? You look so neat!" Bella asked, pretending not to know that her grandfather would join them.


    Isaac was surprised to see Bella standing beside him. He cleared his throat and exaggeratedly gestured for his chauffeur to prepare the car. Before he looked at her again, smiling broadly as he said, "Oh, I will fly, alright. But not to East City. I will fly with you and Dax to Nova City."


    Bella finds her grandfather¡¯s expression funny, but she tries not to laugh out loud. She just gave out a slight smile.


    "Grandfather, if I recall correctly, you refused to come with us two days ago. What made you suddenly change your mind?" She asked while quickly glancing at her son.


    Bella caught sight of Dax, looking amused as he was chatting with the same amused Tristan. Watching them laugh together like that was enough to make her heart race once more.


    ¡¯Oh, Dax, you really like your father, don¡¯t you?!¡¯ She speaks to herself.


    She hurriedly fixed her gaze on her grandpa.


    Isaac Donovan sighed deeply before responding to Bella¡¯s question, "That¡¯s because Lewis decided to go to Nova City with you. How could I allow him more time with my little Dax while I feel lonely in East City? No way. I¡¯m coming too."


    Bella was surprised as she didn¡¯t recall informing Lewis Sinclair about their travel plans.


    Suddenly, a confident man¡¯s face appears in her mind, ¡¯Is it Tristan!? It must be him who told Grandpa Lewis, right?¡¯


    Curious to know the answer, Bella looked at Tristan. She saw him approach them with his warm, gentle smile.


    "You are the one who told your Grandpa about our trip?"


    "No, I didn¡¯t. I mean, if I did, it must be accidentally. I didn¡¯t ask him to follow you, though¡­ That¡¯s all on him," Tristan said as he grinned slightly guilty at Bella and Grandpa Lewis. He didn¡¯t dare confess that he had posted the travel information in their Cupid Alliance group.


    Bella frowned at his unclear answer.


    "Mom," Dax suddenly shouted from inside the car. I was the one who asked Grandpa Lewis to join us. It would be very lonely if Aunt Noora and I were at home while you were working, so..." He worried that his mother would be angry because he had successfully convinced his great-grandpa to follow them without asking his mother¡¯s permission.


    Initially curious about the situation, Bella smiled and nodded at Dax, showing her understanding. Then, she urged them to leave for the airport immediately.


    She didn¡¯t mind if her grandpa and Tristan¡¯s Grandpa came with them, but she was afraid that Leo¡¯s beach villa didn¡¯t have enough room to accommodate them.


    She could have made arrangements in Nova City if they had informed her earlier. Now, she needs to message Leo about the plan change; it is possible they may need to find a villa with more room.


    Sigh!


    ...


    Before long,


    Two cars arrived at Sinclair Group¡¯s private airport. Bella spotted Leo and Sam waiting for her in the VIP lounge. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a short greeting, they immediately walked towards the black jet parked near the airport¡¯s lounge room.


    Bella was speechless upon seeing the jet they were about to board. Though she knew very little about passenger aircraft, she could deduce that Tristan must have spent considerable money on the superjet. It looked new and slightly bigger than a typical private jet.


    As the others walked to the jet, she approached Tristan and asked, "This isn¡¯t the one you bought for Dax, is it?"


    "Yes, this is it. It is currently still under another person¡¯s name, but the ownership of this airplane will soon be changed to our son¡¯s name," Tristan explained. He looked at Bella with concern. "Bella, do you not like this type of jet? Or is it the color that you don¡¯t like?"


    Bella, "...."


    Does she have the privilege to voice her mind? Gosh, this man!


    "It¡¯s Dax¡¯s plane, so it¡¯s better to ask him directly. Anyway, thank you, Tristan. I am leaving now," Bella said as she walked away.


    "Bella, would you mind calling me once you guys have landed?"


    "Sure!" Bella answers while only glancing at him. She couldn¡¯t look too long at Tristan. The more she looks into his eyes, the more she worries about herself.


    But her glance seems enough to Tristan. He smiles while waving his hand to them.


    He stood at his place, watching the superjet take off and fly until it vanished behind the horizon.


    Later,


    A man in a black suit in his mid-forties approached Tristan. He was the director of this airport. His name is Albert. After greeting Tristan politely, the man walked with Tristan towards his car.


    "Sir, are you sure you want to change the ownership of the super jet from your name to young master Daxton?" the man politely asked.


    "Yes. And please do it faster...and quietly!" Tristan ordered.


    If the superjet was in Daxton¡¯s name, he was sure Bella would use it whenever she wanted to go on a business trip.

 Chapter 168: Surprised to See Someone

    If the superjet was in Daxton¡¯s name, Tristan was sure Bella would use it whenever she wanted to go on a business trip.


    He planned to give his wife a jet but used their son¡¯s name. Because he knew Bella would refuse if he gave it to her directly.


    "Yes, Sir. I will expedite the arrangement."


    "I expect no less from you, Albert," Tristan responded, climbing into his car.


    He hates that he returned home alone today. But he must fly to Singapore tomorrow morning for an appointment with the Prime Minister of Singapore and accompany them in inspecting the newly built super-efficient water and waste treatment facility that Sinclair¡¯s Group has built and operated. But he doesn¡¯t really care about his new promising ventures.


    He only cares about completing his Singapore trip as soon as possible and joining his family in Nova City.


    And for that, he felt excited and couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    ****


    Nova City.


    Bella and the others arrived at Nova City at six in the evening.


    When they arrive at the beach villa, Bella realizes that they are not staying at the Villa that Leo had rented but rather at Tristan¡¯s Villa.


    Although surprised, she opted not to voice her concern as the Villa that Leo booked for her only had three bedrooms, which would not be sufficient to accommodate her entire entourage.


    The sky was already dark. Bella couldn¡¯t see the view from the area near the Villa.


    Even so, she could see the garden lights illuminating the surroundings and making them look pretty. She could faintly hear the waves crashing and guessed the beach was nearby. This would be perfect because Dax could play on the beach without any worries.


    After ensuring that Dax and Noora exited the car, Bella followed them. However, before she could fully stand on her feet, she was shocked by what she saw. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Geoffrey? Why did he come here? He¡¯s supposed to be with Tristan, right?¡¯


    Bella was speechless when she saw Geoffrey instructing several workers to load their luggage and help Isaac and Lewis to enter the Villa.


    When she saw Geoffrey approach them, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, "I was surprised to see you here. Is there any particular reason, Geoffrey?"


    "Welcome to the Sinclair¡¯s beach house, Young Madam and Young Master," Geoffrey greeted Bella and Dax with a polite smile.


    He explained to Bella that Tristan had instructed him to prepare the beach villa to be ready when Bella and Dax arrived. So, he flew here the day before.


    "Hello, teacher Geoff¡­" Dax smiled at Geoffrey with a wink; he knew Geoffrey had already flown to this place through their Cupid Alliance group chat.


    "Young Master, Young Lady, please follow me inside¡­" Geoffrey beckoned them. She said nothing else and followed them into the house.


    The expansive Villa boasted six main bedrooms, ensuring each had its own space.


    Bella and Dax were assigned rooms on the second floor. Bella gets the primary and most spacious bedroom with an unobstructed beach view. Dax gets the smaller ones adjacent to Bella¡¯s room, which has a beach, pool, and garden view. The elders will use the guest rooms on the first floor, as the rooms are the closest rooms to the living and dining room.


    The living and dining rooms are located in one big hall. It is also the most extensive section of the Villa. Geoffrey surprises them with delicious food and drinks when they arrive at the living and dining room. He also politely insists Bella, Dax, and the elders have dinner before anything else.


    ...


    After a lovely dinner, the elder excused themself as they needed to stretch their backs and probably get some sleep early.


    Bella accompanied Dax to his room. When they arrived, she saw Noora unpacking Dax¡¯s suitcase.


    "Auntie, you should have dinner first..." Bella felt sorry to see her work so hard.


    Noora paused and looked at Bella, "I think I will pass dinner, Miss. I¡¯m still full from eating a lot of chocolate cakes and cheesecakes on the plane."


    "Aunty, why do I remember differently? I saw you eat not only cakes but also steak, spaghetti, and whatever the flight attendants offer," Dax said casually as he sat on the sofa in the corner.


    "Oh, please, young master. Didn¡¯t you promise when we were on the plane not to embarrass me if I helped you finish your cakes?" Noora was speechless.


    Dax only smiled slightly but remained silent, gazing out the window, attempting to glimpse the beach. However, all he could see was a garden and a swimming pool. Despite this, he felt enthusiastic and looked forward to observing the scenery behind the Villa the following day.


    Bella chuckled upon hearing their words. She let Noora continue to arrange Dax¡¯s belongings and looked around the room.


    There was a massive glass wall with a sea view, but she couldn¡¯t see the sea then. She could only hear the waves crushing the rock in the distance.


    Bella glances at her son, now looking bored on the sofa. She approached him and sat beside him.


    "Baby... if you can¡¯t sleep alone, you can come to my room," she said while ruffling her smooth hair.


    "Mom, I¡¯m not a child. I¡¯m an adult..."


    Bella feels amused hearing his words.


    "Well, you¡¯re still my baby in my eyes," she said with a smile as she kissed his cheek. "Alright, go wash up and change into your pajamas." After Dax settled, Bella left.


    Her bedroom is adjacent to Dax¡¯s room, with a small lounge area in between that has a beach view and a veranda.


    Before entering her bedroom, Bella checked the veranda and was surprised to see stairs leading to the garden. These stairs lead to the infinity pool and the path to the beach.


    ¡¯Gosh, what a beautiful place. Has Tristan ever come to this place? Why did he never bring me here?¡¯ Bella wondered, feeling gloomy, remembering their past marriage. She shivered as the cold sea wind blew, pulling her back from her thoughts.

 Chapter 169: Touch by His Kindness

    Bella immediately entered the house again. After locking the glass door, she finally entered her bedroom. The room has a modern design with wooden furniture and is mainly decorated with earth-tone colors.


    The big bed in the middle of the room, with white sheets, made her want to throw herself there immediately. She was starting to feel sleepy.


    However,


    When Bella saw her suitcase and bag near the mini walk-in closet, she took a deep breath. She needed to unpack. Just before she wanted to do that, a soft knock from the door stopped her.


    "Yes?" She shouted as she walked to the door. She opened it and found Noora standing there.


    "Miss, I will help you unpack¡­" Noora said and entered the room.


    Bella did not stop her but instead took her handbag. She needs her cell phone to call a particular person in the capital.


    "Aunty, how is the house?" Bella asked as she returned her bag to the table after finding her cell phone. She then walked to the sofa and settled there.


    "This Villa is massive. I also had my own room in the back wing. I¡¯ve met all the Villa¡¯s staff, including Mr. Geoffrey, and they told me about many things¡­" Noora excitedly explained.


    Bella could only listen in silence, pretending to be interested in the conversation.


    "It appears that Master Tristan has already arranged for you and the young master to enjoy a vacation here, Miss..."


    She smiles, hearing Noora¡¯s words, and out of nowhere, she answers, "Yes, he is so kind..."


    After several weeks of living near Tristan and seeing him daily, Bella could sense his seriousness. His words and actions were always in harmony.


    One of the most touching moments that Bella witnessed was when Tristan showed great enthusiasm and cared for their son.


    Bella never thought that Tristan, a cold and aloof man she married and divorced years ago, had a soft heart and fatherly figure. Tristan¡¯s fatherly figure is something Bella has always longed for. Because she never received attention and affection from her own father.


    ¡¯Tristan, can you not show all your cards!? All sides of your loving side?¡¯ Bella secretly took a deep breath as she saw Tristan¡¯s name on her cell phone¡¯s contact list.


    "Oh, and did you know, Miss..." Noora¡¯s voice distracted Bella from her lingering feelings for Tristan. She looked at Noora curiously.


    "The villa has a private beach that only the owner can access. This allows master Dax to safely play on the beach without interference from others," explained Noora.


    Bella is pleased to hear that. She understands that her son does not enjoy crowded places, such as amusement parks or shopping centers; instead, he prefers to visit quiet places like museums or the lakes behind their house in Sweden.


    "That¡¯s perfect..." Bella said. It¡¯s great to hear that she is starting to imagine her son spending time on the beach.


    "They also have a private dock with a yacht and a jet ski park on a pier not too far from here..." said Noora as she skillfully hung Bella¡¯s formal clothes and some home and beach clothes into the closet.


    Bella, "..."


    "And you won¡¯t believe it, Miss. Mr Tristan arranged for a chef from his house to cook for us for the whole week. Oh, one more thing... there is a set of seafarers who will standby on the yacht, so young master Dax can immediately go fishing without waiting for the crew to arrive at the pier..."


    The more Bella heard Noora talking, the more her head became dizzy.


    "Aunty Noora, please ensure Dax uses sunblock before heading to the beach tomorrow. And don¡¯t let him go fishing alone or just with the grandad; you or Geoffrey must accompany him on the beach, the swimming pool, or the yacht," she worriedly said.


    Bella won¡¯t be able to accompany Dax tomorrow as she has a packed schedule. She will be meeting with the CEO and executive directors of Celebes Energy. After the meeting, they will be visiting a mining site at a secluded location. Just thinking about it is enough to make her even more exhausted.


    Before long,


    Noora finished unpacking two suitcases and then excused herself, leaving Bella to rest.


    But Bella can¡¯t rest now. She needs to contact Tristan. She immediately dialed Tristan¡¯s number.


    On the second ring, Tristan answered the phone. Bella could hear his excited voice from the other end. "Hi, Bella... I¡¯m so glad you finally called me."


    "Tristan, I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. Since we arrived, Geoffrey treated us to dinner, and I have been quite busy talking with Grandpa. I also need to help Dax settle into his new bedroom. I only just got a chance to go into my room now." Bella explained.


    "It¡¯s fine, Bella. I¡¯ve got a report from Geoffrey..." Tristan smiled happily. "How¡¯s the place? Do you like it?"


    Bella took a deep breath in silence and felt blessed. Tristan had arranged a beach house with a private beach for them, which she appreciated.


    She was happy that their son could finally enjoy what he had longed for¡ªa beach vacation. Dax had always expressed his desire to go to the beach, but she had never been able to fulfill it for him.


    But now, she felt awkward because Tristan had already done so much for her and Dax. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Even though it was already dark when I arrived, I must say that this place is beautiful and peaceful. I didn¡¯t hear any sounds of cars or machines in the distance, only the soothing sound of nature and waves," Bella finally expressed her feelings towards this place.


    "I¡¯m glad to hear that you¡¯re happy, Bella. You¡¯ll have the opportunity to see the beauty of that place tomorrow." Tristan paused to sigh deeply, feeling bad because he couldn¡¯t join them now.


    "I wish I could be there with you and Dax. But I won¡¯t be able to, as I can¡¯t cancel this business trip..." He continues.

 Chapter 170: Tristan Confession

    "I wish I could be there with you and Dax. But I won¡¯t be able to, as I can¡¯t cancel this business trip..." He continues. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, come on, Tristan," Bella chuckled when she heard his gloomy tone. "I find it amusing to hear you say those words. In the past, you were always on your business trips and never had time for me."


    She tried to tease him so he wouldn¡¯t feel annoyed, but it turned out that her efforts actually made Tristan even more sad.


    "I feel like I need to beat my past self. I can¡¯t believe I ignored someone as beautiful, graceful, kind, and intelligent as you, Bella..."


    Her face flushed with redness after hearing such a sweet word from Tristan¡¯s mouth.


    ¡¯Geez! Did I give him the wrong signal? Why did he start flirting out of the blue?¡¯


    "Tristan, thank you so much." She sincerely said, ignoring the questions echoing in her mind.


    "For what?"


    Bella smiled as she gently touched her forehead, discreetly massaging it without being too obvious, and said, "I appreciate what you did to Dax and me. But I¡¯m a bit curious, though¡­.Why are you so kind to me? If you spoiled Dax alone, I would understand, and I wouldn¡¯t mind. You are his father, after all. But I can read between the lines, Tristan."


    "Damn! Am I that obvious and easily read, Bella? Hahaha... It¡¯s, maybe, because I¡¯m trying my best to show you the real me. Not someone who planned to divorce you five years ago. I hope you understand by now, Bella.


    I often told you I want you to return to me as my wife. And that is the truth."


    Bella¡¯s pulse quickened as she heard his soft, sincere voice and laugh.


    "Please, give me a chance. As I promised you many times, I won¡¯t let you down this time. I won¡¯t hurt you; no one in my family can hurt you because I will protect you from anything bad that comes from any... I¡¯ll take care of you for the rest of your life... and that goes for Dax, too."


    How could she ignore him when he expresses his feelings like this?


    Bella closed her eyes when she heard him continue his confession.


    "I won¡¯t force you to accept me. But please never doubt my words, Bella. I¡¯m different from Tristan from the past."


    Silence hung in the air as Tristan waited for Bella to respond.


    After a moment, she finally said, "Tristan, may I ask you..."


    "Yes. Whatever you want to ask." Tristan immediately said. He evidently tensed but tried so hard to sound gentle and soft.


    "Are you really not coming from the future?"


    "Huh!? What do you mean? I don¡¯t get it."


    "I know it may sound silly. But I need you to hear me and read between the lines. You see, from Chinese novels I often read, a person could transmigrate into his or her body in the past to correct their past mistakes. That¡¯s how I see you in the last several weeks. You are not the person whom I lived with five years ago. Because that person was cold and indifferent to me."


    "Hahaha, I don¡¯t exactly understand what you mean. But it has a positive vibe. And if it means you believe I¡¯m not like you remember the last time, you are free to assume I transmigrate from my future self. Because I¡¯m correcting my past mistakes. Hurting you so profoundly was a terrible, terrible mistake, Bella."


    Bella, "...."


    She was rendered speechless. And for almost a few minutes, she was silent.


    "Bella? Are you still there?" Tristan asked again after he hadn¡¯t heard her say anything.


    "I¡¯m here."


    "This conversation really means something to me, Bella. For something this important, only hearing your voice is not enough. May I video call you, Bella?" Tristan asked, almost begging. Still, he was actually asking this because he wanted to see her face. He misses her so much.


    "V-Video call... No! Not now, Tristan." Bella rejected it firmly. She opened her eyes wide, staring at the ceiling, too suprised to hear his request.


    How can they make a video call now?


    She was sure he would be on video calls until morning if they did.


    "Why not?"


    There¡¯s nothing from Bella but her silence.


    She didn¡¯t want to answer him.


    "I miss you, Bella. Please let me video call you. I want to see your face..."


    "Sorry, Tristan. Maybe another time. I¡¯m so tired of looking at any kind of monitor right now. Also, I¡¯m desperate for a good shower. Let¡¯s talk again tomorrow, okay? Good night!" Bella said without giving him a chance to continue what he was saying.


    Beep!


    Bella ended the call and threw her cell phone on the sofa. She immediately rushed to the bathroom to clean herself with a warm and comforting shower. The shower in Tristan¡¯s Villa was so good. It enables Bella to meditate during the shower and calm herself down from thinking about Tristan.


    After almost half an hour, Bella dried herself and wore silk pajamas. She didn¡¯t rush to sleep; instead, she took her iPad and read some files about the next meeting.


    Bella climbed into bed after turning off the light and leaving only the bedside table lamp. She sat with her back against the headboard, reading an essential file until she lost track of time. Her mind was so calm and away from thinking about Tristan that she could focus on her work.


    Later,


    She started to yawn several times. Her eyes were so drowsy. But not long after, her cell phone vibrated on the bedside table. When he saw Tristan¡¯s name appear there, she frowned.


    She checked the time and realized it was already 11.45 PM.


    Is it too late to pick up his call?


    After a few more seconds, her cell phone still rang, so she decided to pick up his phone call.


    "Tristan, why did you call again? It¡¯s almost midnight here, and I almost fell asleep."


    "Bella, thank god you picked up. This is a video call, by the way..."


    "WHAT!?"

 Chapter 171: I Have a Fever?

    "WHAT!?" Bella shouted in surprise. She quickly pulled out her cell phone and gaped at the screen, shocked to see a shirtless Tristan lying on his bed.


    Bella could see his well-defined chest. She could only blink, unable to move or speak.


    This was the first time she had seen his chest again in so many years, and the sight brought back all her happy memories. Once more, these memories, these feelings, started to confuse her.


    "You look so pretty, Bella," Tristan said, suddenly pulling Bella from her lingering sweet memories with him. She feels like an entire zoo now dancing in her stomach.


    She shook her head slightly while turning away her gaze, "T-Tristan, you¡ª" but her voice betrayed her. She couldn¡¯t voice what was in her mind at this moment.


    Tristan interrupted Bella, noticing her face had turned red. "Bella, are you okay? Are you allergic to something?"


    Once more, Bella scolds this shameless Tristan in her mind.


    "I¡¯m fine! Maybe. I don¡¯t know! But please, Tristan, put on something..." she says without glancing at him at all.


    Suddently, Tristan chuckled when he realized he only wears his pajama pants¡ªhe usually sleeps like that.


    "Oops, I¡¯m sorry. You know my habit." he hurriedly apologized and walked to put on his shirt.


    As he hurriedly moved away from his bed, the sound of Tristan¡¯s footsteps piqued Bella¡¯s curiosity, leading her to sneak a peek at her phone screen. After only a few seconds, she was shocked to see a familiar piece of furniture in Tristan¡¯s room.


    Later,


    Tristan¡¯s face appears again. A wide smile graced his face before he continued his words. "Bella, I wear a shirt now. I hope your allergic to my upper body is gone now," he teased her.


    After adjusting her expression, Bella slowly turned back to her cell phone. She saw him lying on the familiar bed. His handsome face is still framed with his loving smile.


    "Are you sleeping in the room you said you would dedicate to me?" Bella asked, noticing some familiar furniture ¡ª her bedroom in his house.


    "Our room, Bella. I didn¡¯t make another room for myself in this house. I sleep in your bedroom, too..."


    Bella was at a loss for words hearing his words. She gave him an ¡ª are you kidding me? ¡ª kind of look.


    Gosh! If only she knew, she would never have slept there.


    Now Bella understands why she feels his familiar scent on that bed whenever she sleeps in that room. Because he also sleeps there.


    This is so embarrassing!


    Tristan somehow could catch Bella¡¯s uncomfortable feeling seeing him sleep in that room. He quickly talked about sleeping on the sofa in his office tomorrow if Bella didn¡¯t like him sleeping there.


    Bella took a deep breath before saying, "Tristan, please don¡¯t. That¡¯s your house. You can do whatever you want..." She said calmly but made a mental note that she would never sleep there again. Well, at least that¡¯s what she planned to do. But she also believes in the higher power. She cannot predict what God has planned for her life in the future.


    "This is our house, Bella. You are still my wife. Well, at least legally..." Tristan wanted to say that, but he held himself back. He didn¡¯t want to scare her in the middle of the night, so he could only smile lovingly at her.


    They continued to chat about many other things. But mainly about Tristan¡¯s business trip. He told her what he would do in Singapore.


    Bella also updated him about her agenda in this city. She also informs him about her energy company, Celebes Energy. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan was surprised to learn that Quantum Capital had become the majority shareholder in Celebes Energy. Although his own company also held shares in Celebes Energy, it was not a majority shareholder. However, he did not mention this fact to Bella, as he noticed her yawning a few times, and her face appeared slightly flushed.


    "Are you sleepy? Or are you bored of me? Hahaha¡­"


    "I¡¯m not bored of you, Tristan. But I might for another minute. Kidding. I just need to take my sleep now."


    "Alright. Would you mind putting your phone on the bedside table? I want to see you sleep."


    "What? No! I don¡¯t want you to see me drooling on my pillow or hear me snore. Good night, Tristan!"


    Beep!


    Bella immediately turned off her cell phone, afraid Tristan might call again.


    She turned off all the lights, and the room became completely dark, lit only by the moonlight coming in from the window. She buried herself under the soft blanket and closed her eyes. She falls to sleep in the next five minutes.


    ****


    The next day.


    Bella awoke to the sound of waves crashing and sunlight streaming through the open curtains near her bed.


    She checked the clock on her bedside table and was surprised to see that it was already 8 a.m., realizing she had overslept.


    ¡¯Strange, why didn¡¯t Noora wake me up? Did they also wake up late today?¡¯ She wondered as she got up from bed.


    As soon as she moves her body, she feels aching in all her muscles, as if she had just finished a marathon the day before. She hasn¡¯t fully recovered from the shock yet. Her body temperature is so hot that it feels like someone has turned on a heater to the maximum.


    "What is this...What is it so hot¡­Do I have a fever?"


    Bella was taken aback when she heard a man¡¯s voice come out of her mouth. She cleared her throat and placed her hand on her forehead.


    She was speechless when she felt her body temperature getting hotter; she did have a fever.


    "Oh my God... why now?" Bella sighed, feeling overwhelmed by her busy schedule. Refusing to believe she had a fever, she forced herself to get up from bed and found her bag.


    As a mother with a toddler, she always prepared a few medicines for her and her son, and she remembered she had Ibuprofen* in her bag to reduce her fever.


    With the efficiency of a mother, Bella found and immediately drank the medicine. She hopes this fever will not bother her today.


    Despite her body aching, she forced herself to get ready for work.


    _____


    *Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain from various conditions, such as headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, or arthritis. It is also used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain due to the common cold or flu.

 Chapter 172: Everyone Knows!

    A few minutes later,


    Bella finished preparing herself and changed into office clothes. She wore a turtleneck to stay warm, afraid the fever would reappear. She also wore straight trousers because she planned to visit a mining site today.


    After grabbing her bag and coat, she rushed to Dax¡¯s room to check on him, only to find that her son was not there. The bed was neatly made, and there were no traces of use.


    She feels terrible. Her son had already woken up, while she was only waking up now.


    ¡¯Why didn¡¯t Noora wake me up?¡¯ She wondered, puzzled. It was strange. Noora was always so disciplined about waking her up at seven for breakfast, especially if she knew she had plans to go to the office.


    Bella headed down to the dining table, hoping to find Dax there. Walking to the first floor, she turned on her cell phone. Suddenly, her phone began to vibrate nonstop, and multiple notifications popped up on the screen.


    She was stunned.


    Her cell phone rarely gets notifications because only certain people know her number. Even when she left the country, she blocked almost all phone contacts in her phone book.


    While scrolling, she stopped midway on the stairs. She was curious to know who could have contacted her. Upon seeing that most of them were from Tristan, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    She opened his message to see if he had something important to share.


    [Tristan] Good morning, Bella. I hope you sleep well.


    [Tristan] I asked Geoffrey not to wake you for breakfast because we were on video calls late at night.


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s expression turned frosty, knowing the culprit of why Noora didn¡¯t wake her up this morning was Tristan Shameless Sinclair.


    ¡¯Gosh! This man, why would he tell Geoffrey something like that?¡¯ Bella vented her frustration in her mind.


    Bella was sure that by now, everyone would think her relationship with Tristan was close enough to make video calls until late at night. How shameless!


    [Tristan] I¡¯m boarding now. See you and Dax soon. (Love Emoji)


    Bella silently chuckled, looking at the emoji he used. She glanced at the time he sent the text two hours ago.


    She type to reply to his text,


    [Bella] Please inform me when you land.


    However, just before she could hit SEND, she heard Dax¡¯s voice coming from the bottom of the stairs.


    "Good morning, Mommy," Dax¡¯s cheerful voice put Bella in a good mood again. She rushes to him while admiring his cute beach outfit. He looks adorable in his blue shorts, T-shirt of the same color, hat, and sandals.


    "Good morning, my baby. Are you going to the beach now?" she asked, half kneeling to meet his lovely gaze.


    "Yes, I am waiting for Aunty Noora. She is going to the kitchen to grab our snacks," said Dax, his eyes beaming with excitement for food.


    "I see. Baby, please keep in mind that you must not go swimming alone. You can only play on the white sandy beach. Also, try not to expose yourself to too much sun, or your skin might get burnt." Bella expressed her concerns, but Dax smiled slightly in response.


    He feels amused, looking at how worried his mother is now.


    "Mommy, don¡¯t worry. I know. My teacher will also accompany me..." said Dax, pointing to Geoffrey as he walked towards them. Bella looked at Geoffrey as he stood up.


    "Morning, young madam," Geoffrey greeted Bella politely.


    However, Bella suddenly feels embarrassed when she remembers Tristan telling Geoffrey about last night¡¯s video call. She tries to maintain her composure and greets him back.


    "Morning Geoffrey. I hear you guys will go to the beach?" She asks casually.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. We¡¯ll accompany the young master to play there and accompany him to do the routine martial arts exercises," he explained enthusiastically. But Bella felt her heartache when she imagined her son would be physically exhausted.


    "Please don¡¯t push Dax too hard, Geoffrey. We¡¯re on vacation," Bella said in concern. She couldn¡¯t fathom how four-year-olds could learn martial arts.


    She always expresses her concerns to Tristan, but he consistently makes excuses, causing her to stop nagging.


    "The most important thing is that Dax enjoyed it..." This is one of Tristan¡¯s words that always make her stop nagging and agree. But still, when she saw Dax training, her heart still ached.


    Dax smiled reassuringly as he said, "Mommy, my teacher knows the best training for me."


    "Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am. I understand your concern. I will make sure young master will have fun and learn at the same time," Geoffrey said reassuringly. "You should have breakfast now, ma¡¯am. Nick has already prepared it, and the elders are starting without you."


    Bella nods and agrees with him.


    She needs to eat breakfast now, as Leo and Sam will arrive to pick her up at 9:30.


    Before heading to the dinner table, she ensured Dax enjoyed the activities and reminded him to follow Geoffrey and Noora¡¯s instructions. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I will, Mom. If I tire, I will let teacher Geoff and Aunty Noora know I need rest. You know me," Dax said, his smile widening as he tried to reassure his mother.


    "Good. I¡¯ll go to the office after breakfast. And maybe come back in the afternoon or evening. I¡¯ll call you later."


    "Okay," Dax already knew his mother¡¯s schedule.


    After seeing Dax and the others go to the beach. Bella headed straight to the dining room.


    Bella saw Isaac and Lewis were already there and starting to eat their breakfast. They seemed to be discussing something and didn¡¯t notice her presence.


    "Good morning," she greeted them politely and then asked Nick to bring her breakfast.


    Isaac and Lewis were suprised when they heard Bella¡¯s voice and saw her sitting across from them.


    "Why do you wake up so early, Bella? Sleep more. I will ask Noora to wake you at nine-thirty," Isaac said.


    Bella, "..."


    Lewis placed his coffee cup down and smiled lovingly at Bella. "You should sleep more, dear. I heard you on a video call with my grandson until dawn. You must be exhausted now, right?"


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Tristan Shameless Sinclair, how dare you put me in such an awkward situation?¡¯


    Bella could only scold him in her mind while smiling at the elders opposite her.


    "Grandpa, you misunderstood," Bella calmly replied, meeting their gaze. "We only spoke briefly before I fell asleep," she added, trying to hide her emotions.


    She doesn¡¯t want these two grandpas to tease her further.

 Chapter 173: Surprised to Know His Progress

    "Hahaha, it¡¯s alright, don¡¯t be shy. This is a good sign, right, Isaac? Our family will soon be reunited again?" Lewis¡¯s sentence echoed in the room, leaving Bella speechless.


    Bella could feel how hot her face was now. And this time, it was not from the fever. She lowered her head and started eating the breakfast that Nick had just served.


    The lavish breakfast Nick prepared and the elders¡¯ excellent breakfast company make Bella forget her fever. Or maybe it¡¯s because the medicine is working? She doesn¡¯t care. She enjoyed her breakfast in peace and quiet while listening to these shameless geezers talking about her and Tristan being a couple again.


    Gosh!


    Shortly after, Nick returned to the dining room to let Bella know that Sam had arrived to pick her up. She immediately excused herself.


    "Grandpa," Bella said as she stood up from her seat. "I will go now. And I¡¯ll probably be back before dinner." She bowed slightly and left without giving them a chance to say anything.


    As Bella walked quickly towards the main entrance, she tried to calm her mind and heart after hearing a conversation between two grandpas.


    Bella still couldn¡¯t believe her grandfather had blessed Tristan so quickly. She remembered her grandfather always said he would repeatedly break Tristan¡¯s legs, but now?


    When did they become so close? Is it because their houses are next to each other, and Tristan always dines with them?


    She feels puzzled.


    Soon, Bella remembered that Tristan and her grandfather always chatted without her after dinner.


    Bella¡¯s smile became even more sour, guessing that Tristan had won her grandfather¡¯s heart.


    Now, she feels suspicious. Tristan not only wins Grandpa, but he is also already getting Aunty Noora, too.


    Unbelievable!


    ¡¯After Dax, he now won Grandpa and Aunty Noora. What nice progress...Tristan Sinclair!¡¯ She can¡¯t help but feel amused by his determination to win her heart.


    Now, she also feels like her heart will soon betray her mind.


    ...


    "Good Morning, Boss," Sam¡¯s voice distracted Bella from her own thoughts.


    She greeted her before getting into the car and tried to compose herself, not letting the morning¡¯s events bring her mood down.


    However,


    Bella was unable to get away from Leo.


    Leo greeted her with unusual cheer and said, "Hello, boss. You look beautiful and charming, as always."


    "Thank you for your always uplifting compliment, Leo," Bella said, glancing at the new chauffeur behind the wheel.


    "Good morning, Ms. Donovan. I¡¯m Randy from Celebes Energy. I¡¯ll be your driver while you stay in this city." The driver greeted her.


    "Hello! Good morning. Thank you, Randy... it¡¯s nice to meet you," Bella returned the greeting with a smile and then looked at the view outside.


    Last night, even though the moon was bright, she couldn¡¯t see the view toward the Villa clearly. Now, she was amazed to find their Villa surrounded by tall, lush trees.


    "Bella, why is your face slightly red? It looks like you¡¯re angry about something..." Leo¡¯s voice suddenly broke the silence. "Did something offend you this early?"


    Sitting beside the driver, Sam was surprised to hear Leo¡¯s words. He looked in the rearview mirror at Bella and saw that her face was a little red.


    Bella turns her attention to Leo.


    "Leo, you should start considering wearing glasses. I don¡¯t think you could even see my face clearly..." Bella said casually while turning her gaze. She looked at the garden their car passed, and finally, the main gate appeared.


    After the car reached the main road, Bella noticed no houses near the Villa. About a mile later, she saw another building.


    "Boss, come on, spill the tea. Who offended you?" Leo asked again, but Bella didn¡¯t entertain or answer his curiosity¡ªshe could only continue looking outside to ease her mind.


    As the car journey continues,


    Bella¡¯s silence becomes more pronounced. And Leo acted accordingly. He started to talk about the works. Soon, her mind is preoccupied with the busy schedule that Leo had re-updated for her.


    They will visit Celebes Energy¡¯s head office to meet the executives and tour a mining site.


    The mining location is quite far from the city, which would be a terrible trip if her fever returned. She would likely be unable to make the two-and-a-half-hour drive.


    Soon after, they are driven into the commercial street, and later, the car stops at the Celebes Building. It is a ten-story building with a modern architecture.


    As the car halted just outside the entrance, Bella spotted Leo¡¯s secretary, Dana, and the CEO of Celebes Energy, Lucian Bloomdale, waiting for them near the main entrance.


    Lucian extends his hand to Bella, "It¡¯s great to meet you in person finally, Ms. Donovan," he says, surprised by how beautiful she looks.


    Bella accepts his handshake and is also surprised to see Lucian. He is so tall and massive¡ªit¡¯s like meeting the Rock in person.


    Before long,


    They all gather in the executive meeting room, including a few executive directors whom Bella had already met online.


    Celebes Energy is a mining company with oil and natural gas mines on the coast south of Nova City. The area is known for its large energy reserves.


    Despite having a potentially profitable business, corrupt local government officials prevent companies from maximizing profits.


    This practice has been ongoing for years despite the company¡¯s attempts to intervene. The officials were well-connected to the capital¡¯s military and related government ministry, rendering the company inefficient.


    When Andreas Corby was the COO* of Quantum Capital, he made it even worse. He took advantage of the situation to his own benefit. He did nothing to stop the ill practice and the consequent losses and inefficiency.


    The company has been operating here for around 20 years; unfortunately, corruption has been a persistent issue.


    Even if an old corrupt official retires, a younger one who takes their position continues the cycle. The company loses millions of dollars each year due to these corrupt practices. It¡¯s a smooth and tyrannical system that¡¯s been going on for too long.


    Bella listens to their report calmly and composedly without uttering a single word.


    ----


    *COO = A chief operating officer (COO) is the corporate executive who oversees ongoing business operations within the company. The COO reports to the chief executive officer (CEO) and is usually second-in-command within the company. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 174: Meet Someone She Didn’t Want To Meet

    After more than one hour of meeting, Lucian finished his report.


    "May I have the name of the corrupt official?" Bella finally breaks her silence. She needed the names of the alleged corrupt officials to start her investigation. If she couldn¡¯t stop them with subtle means, then she would resort to harsh methods.


    And it is up to the corrupt officials what way they want her to use. They can choose!


    Lucian explains that they only know the people they are in contact with, not the people behind them. Therefore, he cannot guarantee that any valuable information can be gleaned from them to investigate the mastermind behind the corrupt officials.


    "It¡¯s fine, Mr. Lucian," Leo replied instead of Bella. When he saw Lucian suprised by his words, he continued, "Well, we just want to know the parties that you have contact with."


    Lucian slightly frowned as he saw Leo. Then, he turned his gaze at Bella.


    When he saw Bella say nothing but small nods, he immediately asked his secretary to give them the list.


    He didn¡¯t have much faith in the newly appointed CEO to address the root cause of the company¡¯s problems. However, Lucian only needs the head office to be aware of the issue and take matters from his hands as he doesn¡¯t have enough resources to deal with it.


    ...


    Bella read the names of five people on the paper. After reading their profiles, she offered the map to Leo beside her and glanced at Lucian, who sat across from her.


    "I understand your concern, Mr. Bloomdale," she says, a half smile slowly appearing on her lips. "Unlike the person before you, you and all the gentlemen here already work hard to manage and operate this office and our business in line with shareholders¡¯ interest. Let¡¯s continue doing so. As for the corrupt official, I will take care of it. You don¡¯t need to worry about them.


    But rest assured, they will stop stealing our company¡¯s money..."


    Lucian Bloomdale and the other directors were surprised to hear how confident Bella was. They all doubted this young woman¡¯s ability to solve such a complex and tremendous matter, but they did not voice their opinions.


    Bella could feel their doubts. Even so, she let them pass and said nothing about it.


    She would take action to deal with all the corrupt officials who stole her company¡¯s money. And she likely had to resort to the hard way.


    In essence, there is no way she will close her eyes to this immoral practice!


    ****


    After the lengthy meeting, Lucas treated Bella and the rest to lunch at a seafood restaurant nearby. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This restaurant is never empty of visitors. As a result, it is challenging to get a seat to eat there, especially if they visit during the lunch or dinner break.


    Luckily, Lucian was an excellent administrator. He is well prepared. He had already reserved the VIP room a week early. So they could enjoy their lunch peacefully in the VIP room.


    They arrive just after the lunch break, but the restaurant¡¯s hall is still full of customers enjoying their lunch.


    Upon arriving at the restaurant, the manager recognized Lucian and promptly escorted them to the VIP room.


    Bella walks alongside Leo to keep up with Lucian and the other directors. As soon as they reach the VIP room, she takes her seat but feels uneasy and uncomfortable. She starts to experience a slight headache and shivering. The med effect has dissipated, and her fever has returned.


    She placed her hand on her cheek, and when she felt her body temperature hot, this worried her. She might cancel her plans to go to the site under such conditions.


    After placing their order, Bella excused herself to use the restroom. She needs to splash cold water on her face to cool down and freshen up. Hopefully, the restaurant¡¯s restroom is clean and cozy.


    Sam, who sat beside Bella, immediately stood up from his seat. He followed her, "Boss, are you okay?" he asked when they left the VIP room.


    She stopped and smiled at him, "I¡¯m fine. I just need to go to the restroom and get freshen up¡­"


    "The restroom is over there. Do you want me to guide you there and guard the door?"


    "Thank you, Sam. I¡¯ll manage it myself." she shook her head and left him.


    "Okay, Boss, I will wait here¡­" Sam stands not far from their VIP room. He is worried about seeing her face and slightly red eyes.


    She didn¡¯t say much, and she walked towards the restroom in the corner at the end of the corridor.


    The corridor looks empty. She is the only one walking toward the restroom.


    She quickened her step.


    When Bella saw her reflection in the mirror, she was surprised. With one glance, someone would know she was not well, as her cheeks and eyes looked red.


    ¡¯Looks like I can¡¯t go to the site this time¡­¡¯ she wondered. She felt terrible about canceling this schedule because she knew Lucian was excited to show them the newly updated mine.


    She took a deep sigh before splashing her cheeks with cold water.


    After ensuring her face looked much fresher, she immediately left the bathroom.


    She needs to drink some medicine to reduce her fever and headache as she starts to feel the back of her neck up to her head feels tight.


    When she comes out, someone calls her name. Instantly, her step stops when she recognizes the familiar voice¡ªit is her brother, Henry Donovan.


    ...


    "Sis Bella!? Oh my god, is this really you? What are you doing here?" Henry Donovan was surprised to see Bella in this city.


    After they last met, he hated her because she had vanished without even visiting their family house.


    What Henry hears is that Bells is now moving to the capital. But he hated her even more because his grandpa moved to the capital, likely because he wanted to get closer to her.


    Henry is jealous of her because Bella is the only person who has made Grandpa decide to move to the capital.


    ¡¯Gosh! Looks like my luck for today has run out. How could I avoid him in this small aisle?¡¯

 Chapter 175: Father Found You A New Husband

    ¡¯Gosh! Looks like my luck for today has run out. How could I avoid him in this small aisle?¡¯


    Instead of answering his question, she asked him, "What are you doing here?"


    Henry frowned, clearly showing that he disliked how she responded.


    "What else would I want to be in this boring part of the city if not for work," he said. "And you?!" he asked again.


    "Work? What kind of business does Donovan Group have in this place?" Bella is starting to feel suspicious of this brat.


    "Why do you want to know?" Henry is slightly annoyed that this girl still hasn¡¯t answered his first question, even though he asked it first.


    "Please pretend you didn¡¯t see me here. Goodbye!" Bella said, then walked away, leaving Henry feeling increasingly angry.


    Henry chased after her, shouting, "Stop right there, you bitch!" He blocked her path and continued, "I¡¯m not finished talking to you, little sister." He ran his fingers through his hair, feeling his anger boil as he glared at her. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella let out a deep sigh as she looked at the clueless man before her. He seemed oblivious to the fact that she didn¡¯t want to talk to him. If she didn¡¯t have a fever, or at least felt better, she would have taught him a lesson, but her body was shivering, and her head was slightly dizzy. She needed her medicine.


    "I don¡¯t have time to talk to you. Step aside, or I¨C"


    "Or what? You want to kick me?" Henry interrupted her words. He laughed when he saw her annoyed look. He feels amused by her courage. "Don¡¯t challenge me, Bella. I haven¡¯t hit any girl or woman since you left home¡­so don¡¯t make me hit you again, ok!?"


    Bella¡¯s hands clenched tightly as her memories of the past started to surface again in her mind when Henry physically bullied her when he thought she had received more attention from their grandparents than him. Bella realizes bullying is one of Henry¡¯s traits. She clearly remembered how his older brother had also bullied his classmates, especially those who were small and nerdy.


    She had already forgotten those painful memories of being bullied by Henry. Still, this man¡ªhow dare he remind her again? How dare he unlock the dark memories she had long buried in her mind? The memories she wanted to forget for the rest of her life.


    Before Bella could express her anger, Henry interrupted her.


    "We attempted to call you, but your cell phone was inactive. It seems like you have blocked all of your family¡¯s phone numbers. Give me your new number! Our father wants to speak with you. You should never turn your back on your family! A woman should obey her family¡¯s wishes!" Henry demanded, attempting to intimidate Bella with his sharp gaze.


    However, Bella remained unfazed.


    "DO NOT patronize me, Henry! I haven¡¯t had a cell phone since returning to this country. And my old number is also inactive¡­" Her traumatic memories of dealing with Henry cause Bella to make random excuses.


    In her mind, Bella knows precisely why she doesn¡¯t share her contact number with her family. She doesn¡¯t see anything positive from sharing her contact number with them. It¡¯s more likely that they will cause problems and bring negative vibe to her life. So, in her good judgment, it¡¯s best to avoid them since she separated from Tristan.


    Furthermore, if there¡¯s anything important regarding her family, she still has her grandfather to inform her.


    Bella¡¯s random excuse upset Henry. He even gasped in disbelief that someone in this century didn¡¯t own a cell phone.


    ¡¯This bitchy little sister of mine! How dare she make fun of me!? The older brother she supposed to respect!¡¯ Henry scolded her in his mind before saying,


    "Bella, you think I¡¯m going to believe that? Tch! How dare you block our parents¡¯ phone numbers. You ungrateful girl. No wonder Tristan Sinclair never loved you. You are such a terrible woman!"


    Bella, "...."


    She started wishing Tristan was here and told her idiot brother how he felt about her.


    Because she didn¡¯t want to prolong her conversation with Henry, she asked, "HENRY. Tell me what you need. Tell me now, or step aside!" Bella said impatiently.


    Henry had to tell this stubborn girl about their father¡¯s arrangement since she refused to give him her phone number.


    "Father mentioned that he has found a potential new husband for you!"


    Bella was dumbfounded. Had she misheard? A new husband? Is her father and brother still thought today a medieval era? She couldn¡¯t help but curse inwardly.


    "Do you remember Uncle Bradley? I bet you still remember him. He owns Dawson Supermart. Well, a few months ago, his wife passed away. When Uncle Bradley heard you¡¯ve been divorced for five years, he immediately asked Father if he could marry you. Father knew that you would be willing to accept, so he agreed to the proposal.


    Father wants you to come back home and talk about it..."


    Bella, "...."


    ¡¯Oh my goodness... Why do I have such a shameless father?¡¯


    It never occurred to Bella that her father tried to set her up with someone else. This time, he wanted to match her to a man his own age.


    She needs to make an official declaration to sever ties with her father. Otherwise, her father will continue to do something funny behind her back.


    "Are you kidding, right?" Bella asked Henry, narrowing her eyes.


    "Why do you think I would make up such a story? Just to fool you? Of course, what I told you is true. That¡¯s why I¡¯m asking for your phone number so our father can talk to you. And please also give me your address. Our mother really misses you and would like to meet you."


    Once again, Bella¡¯s body shivered. She couldn¡¯t tell if it was due to her fever or her boiling anger towards Henry¡¯s words and her father¡¯s new evil plan.


    Bella could feel the eternal flame burning in her heart.

 Chapter 176: His Powerful Slap

    Once again, Bella¡¯s body shivered. She couldn¡¯t tell if it was due to her fever or her boiling anger towards Henry¡¯s words and her father¡¯s new evil plan.


    Bella could feel the eternal flame burning in her heart hearing Henry¡¯s words as she said.


    "Henry Donovan, tell your father... I no longer considered him as my father. I don¡¯t need anybody¡¯s help to look for a husband. I could find one for myself. And you, there is no need to address me as your sister anymore. In my eyes and my mind, you are no longer my big bro!


    And I know it would be easy for you to accept that because you NEVER ACT LIKE ONE!"


    Henry gasped, shocked at her daring words.


    She wanted to sever a tie with us!?


    This bitch!!


    It looks like this little bitch asked to be beaten, right?


    How could she so casually suggest breaking off from the family? sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Has she gone crazy?


    Henry couldn¡¯t believe it. This timid girl had changed 180 degrees ¡ª she dared to speak and had confidence.


    "You bitch¡ª" Henry¡¯s face turned red instantly as if all the blood was now rushing to his face. He was outraged to hear Bella¡¯s arrogant words.


    "Don¡¯t get in my way," Bella snarled, fixing her cold gaze on Henry. She felt ashamed to share blood with him.


    "Look¡¯s like you really need to taste my slap like when we were kids, bitch!" Henry said. An evil grin frames his smug face before he raises his hand and slaps Bella. "You, bitch..." his words trail off when his hand hangs in the air¡ªhe can¡¯t move his hand¡ªsomeone holds it.


    Henry looked over his shoulder and was surprised to see a tall man with short, military-style hair standing behind him. The man gripped his hand tightly. He tried to free his hand, but the man¡¯s strength was not his match.


    The more Henry tried to pull his hand away, the tighter the man¡¯s grip became. He started to feel his hands hurt as if his bones were being crushed; the excruciating pain caused his face to turn red.


    "What the hell, Man! Let go of my hand! Who are you anyway? Mind your own business! How dare you interfere in my family affairs?" Henry roared, veins popping out on his forehead.


    The man didn¡¯t bother to answer Henry. His cold gaze slowly turned warm as he looked at Bella. In his polite tone, he asked, "Are you okay?"


    "Let go of his hand, Sam. I¡¯m fine," Bella answered, smiling at Sam.


    Bella was glad Sam showed up at the right time¡ªright before this shameless Henry slapped her. What excellent timing!


    "What do you want me to do with this trash, Boss!?" Sam asked casually, but Henry, who heard his words, felt even more angry.


    ¡¯TRASH!? How dare this man call me that?¡¯ Henry was about to open his mouth to scold this big man, but he almost vomited blood when he heard Bella¡¯s words.


    Bella glances at Sam and repeatedly blinks to signal him to follow her plan. Luckily, Sam witnessed how she punished Andreas Corby, so he immediately knew what she wanted.


    "Even though this man¡¯s slap didn¡¯t hit me, I felt traumatized..." Bella said in a sad and frightening tone as she lowered her eyes, trying to hold back laughter when she saw Henry¡¯s shocked expression.


    After a pause of a few seconds, Bella continued her words, "You can do anything with his hands, such as... breaking his fingers or twisting his arms, so that he can¡¯t hit women again in the future. This man is a menace to our civil society."


    "Go it, Boss! Please return to your table. It would be best if you didn¡¯t witness what I¡¯m about to do to this white trash..." Sam said, grinning as he pinned Henry against the wall to give Bella space to walk past him.


    Henry was left speechless and started to fear his fate when he was forcefully pushed to the wall and unable to move. He cursed inwardly, frightened by this man pushing him hard against the wall. He could feel that this big man was not just anyone; he may be a military or martial arts expert, and judging from the way he talked to Bella, it seemed this man was her bodyguard.


    Henry clenched his teeth, angry, as he tried to figure out how to convince the man to let him go without making the big man even madder at him. After thinking for a while, he planned to offer him much money.


    "Don¡¯t worry about the consequences, Sam. I¡¯ll erase your trail so you can do whatever you want." Bella smiles at Sam and then mockingly at Henry before walking away.


    After several steps, she pulled out her cell phone. She had a moment of hesitation, like a second, before finally dialing Stefan¡¯s number.


    Bella talked with Stefan for a few minutes. She asked him to delete all the CCTV footage from around the area in this restaurant, including hacking Henry¡¯s cell phone and cloning it.


    As Bella walked towards the VIP room, she muttered, ¡¯Do you want to hit me again, brother? Over my dead body.¡¯


    Before she enters the VIP room, Bella tries to forget her shock at her father¡¯s audacity in finding her a new husband.


    She will deal with him later.


    ***


    Upon re-entering the VIP room, Bella was surprised to find the food had already been served. However, no one eats. Everyone seemed to be waiting for her. She felt terrible and could only offer a smile of apology before taking her seat.


    Leo leaned closer to Bella and whispered, "That¡¯s an unusually long restroom excuse, Boss. What took you so long? Are you okay?" He noticed her red eyes and tired expression.


    "Yeah. I¡¯m great," Bella whispered to Leo casually, ignoring her ache. Then, she fixed her gaze on Lucian and the three Directors having lunch with them.


    "Gentlemen, please enjoy your lunch..." she politely said as she began to eat. However, the Honey-Grilled Prawns she loved tasted bland.


    She secretly took a deep breath, waiting for the opportunity to take the badly needed med.


    As everyone started to eat and stopped paying attention to her, Bella reached for her Birkin bag, took out two Ibuprofen pills, and swallowed them with water. She has decided to cancel her trip to the mining site because she feels her body won¡¯t handle it. Instead, Leo will be sent in her place.


    She needs to go to the hospital to receive a Vitamin C IV injection; otherwise, she will take longer to recover and make her family worry about her condition.

 Chapter 177: Rushing To The Hospital

    After lunch, Bella left with Sam to go to the hospital. At the same time, Leo, who represents Bella, visits the mining site with his secretary, Dana.


    As soon as she entered the car, she felt her surroundings spinning.


    She closed her eyes and tried to sleep while sitting.


    "Boss, you can lay and sleep..." Sam said after he saw her massage her forehead.


    "Hmm," Bella lay while closing her eyes. "Please drive faster...to any nearby hospital." She rarely falls ill, but she feels utterly drained when she does.


    "Yes, Boss¡­" Sam said and drove. He looked calm, but in his heart, he was worried. While driving, he kept glancing in the rearview mirror to check her condition.


    ...


    Promise Hospital.


    Bella was stunned when she woke and saw they were at Promise Hospital ¨C Sean¡¯s family hospital.


    She didn¡¯t want to be admitted to this hospital, primarily because Amanda Spencer, Sean¡¯s aunt, had already issued Spencer¡¯s Black Card for her. She worried that Amanda could trace her admission to this hospital and cause unwanted attention from Sean¡¯s family.


    "Sam, this is the near hospital?" Bella asked while holding back the discomfort she felt.


    "Yes. We need to drive about 20 minutes to get to another hospital. Do you want to go to another hospital?"


    After looking at her watch, she saw it was almost 3 pm. If she went again to another hospital, it would delay her time back to the beach house even more.


    ¡¯It might be the best choice if you want to see Dax soon, Bella. Let¡¯s be brave...¡¯


    Bella finally decided to choose this hospital, hoping it wouldn¡¯t attract any unnecessary attention from the Owner. Bella pushed herself to accept that the hope was reasonable because this hospital was far from the capital, and Amanda Spencer likely would not notice. That is, as long as Bella did not use her black card.


    "No need. Let¡¯s go..." Bella said, then exited the car.


    They went straight to the emergency room after Sam finished the administrative matters.


    Bella was impressed by the efficient administrative service at the hospital. Sam only needed to show her ID card, and the process was complete in just two minutes.


    Bella was even more impressed by how quick and caring the nurses handled her. They took her to the emergency room while ensuring she was comfortable and in good hands; this was her first experience going to an emergency room.


    After a brief wait, the staff talked to the nurse on duty, who led her to a tiny one-bedroom room in a corner with a good view.


    The room appeared to be reserved for VIP patients. She wondered if Sam had admitted her as a VIP patient, but her headache returned, so she set her questions aside. She needed to lie down on the bed.


    As Bella lay on the bed, the nurse took her temperature and was shocked by the result.


    "Ms. Donovan, your temperature is high. We need to get it down as soon as possible. I will put the medicine through your IV tube to speed up the process," said the concerned nurse.


    Bella could already guess it because she felt her body heat like a fire burning inside and on her skin. She smiled, although the smile was limited on her lips and didn¡¯t show through her eyes as she endured the pain.


    "Yes, please. Nurse... can you also inject vitamin C for me? And, just to let you know, I also have a headache, pretty bad..." She said helplessly.


    "I will consult with the doctor about your information. He will check your condition shortly, mam. But for now, what we do is lower your fever first," the nurse explained.


    "Okay. I trust you know better. Thank you," Bella said calmly, even though she was worried inwardly. She doesn¡¯t like IV needles. However, for now, she had no choice. She needs to feel better soon and return to the beach house.


    ¡­


    The way the nurse set up and put the IV tube on her was magnificent. She felt no pain at all. Within minutes, the med is making her sleep.


    Four hours later, S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella opened her eyes and saw a nurse beside her, checking her IV. As she fully opened her eyes, the nurse told her the doctor had given her vitamin C and a few other medicines to expedite her recovery when she was asleep. She should be feeling much better now. After the nurse finished checking, she left.


    And the nurse was right. Bella no longer feels hot or sore or pain in her head and shoulder. Her body feels lighter. This condition relieved her. She could return soon to the beach house.


    When Bella looked up at the clock on the wall, she was surprised to realize that she had slept so long. Glancing around the corner, she noticed Sam immersed in his phone.


    "Sam¡­"


    "Thank goodness, Boss, you¡¯re finally awake," Sam said with delight.


    He had waited for four hours while she slept, worrying about her condition. Fortunately, the doctor had informed him that Bella was alright but had fatigue syndrome, possibly due to excessive work or stress. The doctor had advised her to rest and take it easy for a while.


    "Sorry to make you worry, Sam..." Bella tries to sit up, causing Sam to rush to help. After she sat, she asked Sam about her condition.


    He immediately explained again to her.


    "No wonder my body has been feeling mad lately," Bella said with a smile and a shake of her head as she listened to Sam¡¯s explanation.


    "Boss, don¡¯t force yourself to work too hard. You haven¡¯t been to work for years, and when you start being active again quickly, your mind and body might be shocked..." Sam said in a still worried tone.


    Bella, "...."


    Why are his words so on point?


    "Boss, the doctor also said if you still have a fever for the next three days, the doctor advised you to return to the hospital for a blood check."


    Bella shuddered at the thought of the needle piercing her skin once more to draw her blood.

 Chapter 178: Amanda Spencer Found Bella!

    Bella shuddered at the thought of the needle piercing her skin once more to draw her blood.


    She felt that giving birth was already enough of an ordeal, with all the procedures and having to stay overnight at the hospital. She made a mental note to avoid returning to this hospital again in the future.


    "Does he prescribe any medicine for me?" She couldn¡¯t focus earlier due to a headache when the doctor spoke to her.


    "Of course, I have already put all your medicine and vitamins in your bag. And also settle the hospital administration and charge. Boss, would you like to stay here or go back?"


    "Back to the Villa, of course!" Bella said firmly.


    "Okay. Let¡¯s get out of here," Sam smiled as he called the nurse to ask them to remove the IV needle.


    A few minutes after the nurse removed all the IV tubes from Bella¡¯s hands, the doctor who had previously examined her returned and informed her about the medical treatment she needed to do at home. Shortly after, the doctor and the nurse thanked her for choosing their hospital and wished her a speedy recovery.


    "Thank you, Doctor," Bella replied with a genuine smile.


    After the doctor left, Bella took her long coat and bag and followed Sam out of the hospital.


    ****


    Meanwhile, a black Maybach was parked in front of the Promise Hospital lobby. A woman in her mid-forties stared unblinkingly at the lobby door, excited as she waited for someone to appear.


    Before long,


    "So, that woman is Arabella Donovan?" Her sweet voice echoed in the car, and her eyes caught sight of Bella walking with Sam.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. The woman is Miss Donovan, and the man beside her is her driver. At least that¡¯s what our informant tells us..." The man sitting next to the driver answered.


    "She looks beautiful. And intelligent, too," the woman said, her lips curving into a smile.


    "Miss Arabella Donovan is indeed beautiful and intelligent," the man said. "Master Sean has chosen a perfect future wife."


    The woman sighed deeply before responding to his assistant, "Please, don¡¯t assume she will be part of my family. It¡¯s not that easy, especially being Sean¡¯s wife."


    The man chuckled, "If you still have doubts about her background, why do you issue a black card for her? You know how exclusive that card was, right?" he rhetorically asked.


    "I am curious about the woman who made Sean ask for an absurd request. She was an outsider, yet she had access to my family¡¯s private card. My nephew is quite independent, especially after serving in the military, so I rarely receive requests for a favor from him. When he asked me for this favor, I couldn¡¯t reject it. But I also couldn¡¯t help but wonder who this woman was."


    The man smiled faintly before he asked again, "Ms. Spencer, and now that you have seen her, are you going to cancel her black card?"


    "No. I want to see how long this woman can restrain herself from using that card. Because since this girl received the card, she has never used it; even when she was admitted to this hospital, she also didn¡¯t use it. If I had not created an alarm every time her name and identity number entered Spencer¡¯s Group¡¯s system server, I would not have known she had been admitted to one of our hospitals."


    Amanda Spencer is amused with what she is doing now. She is too curious about Sean¡¯s girlfriend, so she abandons her work in the capital and rushes to fly to this city, only to catch a glimpse of her. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Okay," the man said, looking at Amanda Spencer. "Ma¡¯am, should we stay here or return to the capital?"


    Amanda Spencer pondered momentarily as she watched the car Bella was driving disappear from her line of sight. After a while, she looked at her most trusted and reliable assistant with a faint smile, she said,


    "Let¡¯s go back to the capital. I should meet my sister-in-law and give her some information about Sean¡¯s future wife. She will be excited."


    Amanda¡¯s eyes lit up at the thought of her sister-in-law finally having a daughter-in-law after asking Sean to get married for so long. Still, Sean always refused or avoided talking about it.


    ****


    At the same time, in the car driven by Sam. Bella felt much better than before when she was going to the hospital. At that time, she couldn¡¯t even open her eyes because her head hurt so much.


    Bella gazed at the beautiful night scenery of Nova City, with lights twinkling along the streets, her smile illuminating her face.


    However, a moment later, she remembered her cell phone. Bella looked for it in her bag but couldn¡¯t find it.


    "Sam, have you seen my cell phone?"


    "I found your phone in your coat pocket. Earlier, it kept ringing, and I was worried it would disturb your rest, so I turned it off. I even turned my phone off, too. I don¡¯t want anyone unnecessarily worried if I told them I was in the hospital," Sam explained while looking at Bella in the rearview mirror with a look of guilt and worry. "So, no one knows you were in the hospital, Boss.


    I¡¯m sorry if that troubled you...boss," He muttered softly.


    "No worries, Sam. You did the right thing. If Aunty Noora or Grandpa asked me, I had an excuse that I couldn¡¯t be contacted because my cell phone battery ran out, and I didn¡¯t have time to charge it. And so did you." Bella said with a reassuring smile.


    Bella turned on her cell phone and immediately received many short messages and pending emails, which vibrated nonstop for several minutes.


    She was no longer surprised when she saw the missed calls from her son, Noora, and grandfather.


    But what surprised her was the missed call from Tristan¡¯s number. When she checked, there were 23 missed calls from Tristan. It would¡¯ve been more if Sam hadn¡¯t turned her phone off.

 Chapter 179: Tristan Flew To Nova City

    ¡¯He made that many calls in a few hours? Why? Does he know I¡¯m in the hospital, and he¡¯s worried?¡¯ Bella wondered. Her heart trembled slightly as she opened the application to read a short message from him.


    [Tristan] I called you, but you didn¡¯t pick up. Please answer, Bella...


    [Tristan] Bella, are you alright? It¡¯s been a few minutes, but you haven¡¯t answered my message, and my calls haven¡¯t been answered either.


    [Tristan] Why do I feel worried about you? Did something happen? Please answer me... (Sad Emoji)


    [Tristan] Bella, please answer. (Worry Emoji) Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    .


    .


    .


    Tristan sent many other similar messages. Anyone who saw his message would¡¯ve reached the same conclusion as Bella¡¯s. The sender has a possessive trait. Despite feeling uneasy with this possessive side of him, Bella was also amused. Deep down, she felt her heart warm, knowing someone sincerely cared and worried about her.


    She didn¡¯t know how to react. Should she feel happy? Or should she be worried because this man was starting to show possessiveness, even though they were not yet husband and wife?


    Bella continued reading Tristan¡¯s short messages, and when she read the last few, her eyes suddenly widened.


    [Tristan] I was worried about you. Our son called me and said he couldn¡¯t reach you, either.


    [Tristan] Bella, I sincerely apologize for asking Max to track your location. I know you ended up in Promise Hospital.


    Bella swallowed silently. At the same time, she continued to read the message from him.


    [Tristan] I¡¯m on the plane. I will fly directly to Nova City to meet you and our son.


    [Tristan] I¡¯ll be there soon... (Love Emoji)


    Bella¡¯s heartbeat raced as she read Tristan¡¯s last text. She immediately wanted to stop him, but when she looked at the time, his last text message had come fifteen minutes before.


    Her shoulders slumped.


    ¡¯He must have been on the plane by now...¡¯ she smiled wryly. She gazes out the window, praying that Tristan won¡¯t tell Dax about her hospitalization. Or her brilliant son will be frightened.


    Several times, Bella took deep breaths.


    ...


    When Bella arrived at the beach house, she saw Noora and Dax pacing in front of the door. She immediately regretted texting Noora that she was on her way home, making them wait for her outside while the night wind was freezing cold.


    After asking Sam to return to the beach villa, Bella adjusts her expression to show a calm and relaxed face before stepping out of the car. She approaches Dax, who runs toward her with a worried and curious expression.


    "Baby, why are you waiting for mommy out here? It is freezing. Let¡¯s get inside!"


    Bella immediately picks him up. To her surprise, Dax doesn¡¯t refuse; instead, he gives her a koala hug by wrapping his arms around her neck and leaning his head on her shoulder. While this amuses her, she also feels sad because she realizes her son must have been very worried about her throughout the evening.


    Since giving birth to her son, she had never been away without speaking to him for more than four hours. Even when she started working at Quantum Capital, Dax always stayed in touch with her through texts, video calls, or phone calls, and she never missed any of those. So she could understand Dax¡¯s worry.


    "Babby, are you worried about mommy?" She whispered in his ear, tightening her grip as she carried him inside.


    "Hmmm... Mommy, I¡¯m worried something terrible has happened to you. It¡¯s unusual for you to ignore my calls or not call me back..." Dax¡¯s soft voice sounded in Bella¡¯s ear.


    He continued, "And I couldn¡¯t resist waiting for you outside when Aunty said you were on your way home, Mommy."


    Instantly, Bella felt a mix of emotions. She felt guilty for causing her son to worry, but she was also grateful that Tristan hadn¡¯t informed Dax that she had been admitted to the hospital.


    "Miss, let me carry Dax," Noora approached Bella. "You just had a very long, exhausting day. You must get some very needed rest," she continued with concern.


    Bella glanced at Noora. "It¡¯s okay, Noora. I already forgot my exhaustion when I carried Dax." She smiled, remembering how Dax usually would refuse if she or anyone else tried to hold him like a baby.


    "Mommy... would you mind putting me down? I want to walk and hold your hand," Dax suddenly said. And his tone was calm but firm. Bella sensed there was no longer any worry in his voice.


    "Are you sure you don¡¯t want Mom to carry you to the living room?" Bella tries to tease him.


    "Yes, please. What Aunt Noora said is true. Mother must be tired..."


    Bella complied with Dax¡¯s wishes without saying anything. She felt the weight of her growing son, making her waist feel crushed.


    "Okay, I know you might feel embarrassed¡­" Bella said while ruffling his soft hair, trying to tease him. However, Dax looked at her with his adorable pout. She held back her laughter, but when she met his blue eyes, she suddenly froze, reminding her of someone who was now rushing to fly here and causing her heart to beat faster again.


    She tries to distract her mind from Tristan as she walks again to the living room.


    "Are you okay, Bella?" As she entered the living room, her grandfather and Lewis Sinclair asked, concern etched on their faces.


    Bella greeted them with a smile. "Grandpa, Grandpa Lewis, I¡¯m okay. While at the mining site, I discovered that my cell phone battery had died. I could only charge it while in the car on my way home. I apologize if I caused anyone to worry."


    "Okay, we¡¯re just concerned. We¡¯re unable to get in touch with Sam either," Isaac explained.


    "Hahaha," Lewis laughed. "No need to apologize, Bella. The important thing is that you¡¯re back and fine," he said.


    Bella sat on the sofa beside Dax and nodded as they spoke.


    Before she could ask about dinner, suddenly, Geoffrey entered the living room and announced that it was ready.


    She excused herself to clean up first and rushed upstairs to change her clothes before joining them.

 Chapter 180: Deep Talk With Dax

    After dinner, Bella and Dax chatted in his room. Dax lay on the bed while Bella sat beside him, leaning against the headboard. She played with her son¡¯s soft hair, listening attentively as he recounted his day.


    Dax excitedly spoke of his time training with Geoffrey while playing in the white sand. After that, he returned home and rested. They decided not to venture outside after lunch due to the sun¡¯s intense heat. However, they boarded a boat at noon and set off for a fishing trip.


    "Fishing was so much fun, Mom. I caught a fish today!" Dax¡¯s eyes beamed enthusiastically, but his expression slowly changed a few seconds later.


    "Huh? What¡¯s wrong, baby? Why do you look so sad?" Bella sat straight up, concerned that something had happened to him.


    "I only caught one fish for the whole day, while the others could catch plenty of fish. I wish Dad were here. I want to go fishing with Dad..." Dax took a deep breath as he turned his gaze to the ceiling.


    Bella¡¯s worries slowly disappeared; She thought something else made him sad.


    She softly rubbed his cheek to make him see her in the eyes before she said, "If Daddy is here, we can go fishing and catch as many fish as you want. There is no need to be sad."


    "Really?" The light in his eyes beamed.


    "Yes, baby..."


    "I hope Dad comes back sooner..." Dax said excitedly. However, his expression changed once again. This time, his eyes flashed with worry.


    Bella was confused when she saw how quickly his expression changed again. It was rare for Dax to show her so much emotion. He usually looked calm.


    "Mommy..." Dax¡¯s blue eyes blinked several times as he looked at Bella. She could see the anxiety there, starting to worry her.


    "What is it, Dax!?"


    "When I couldn¡¯t reach you on your phone, and you didn¡¯t respond to my text message, I decided to call Dad," Dax explained. He paused momentarily to see his mother¡¯s reaction before continuing, "I feel bad... because when I called, Dad was sleeping. He sounded worried about you, too. I¡¯m sorry, Mom. I know that because of me, Dad will worry about you too..."


    Bella smiled and said, "It¡¯s okay, Baby. I¡¯m not angry. Besides, Daddy already told Mommy that you called him..."


    Dax smiled again when he knew his mother wasn¡¯t angry with him.


    "Okay, it¡¯s time to sleep, Dax. It¡¯s almost ten," Bella said as she got up from bed. She helped fix Dax¡¯s blanket before turning off the lights. "Good night, Baby. Don¡¯t forget to dream about me. I love you..."


    "I will... Love you more."


    Bella smiled even wider after hearing his sweet reply. Glancing once more at Dax, she immediately closed the door.


    ...


    When she was alone in her bedroom, the first thing she did was find her bag. After taking medicine and vitamins, she walked to the sofa and tried to call Leo. She feels terrible about letting him go to the mining site alone; now, she must hear his report.


    Bella was about to dial Leo¡¯s number when her cell phone vibrated, and Leo¡¯s name appeared.


    She was amused by the coincidence that Leo called her first, "Hello Leo, are you back!?"


    "Yes. I arrived two hours ago. Bella, how are you? Are you feeling better now?" Leo asked worriedly.


    When Leo arrived at the Villa two hours ago and noticed Sam¡¯s car, concerned about Bella¡¯s condition, he searched for Sam to ask about her health. Unfortunately, Sam was already fast asleep.


    After failing to get any info from Sam, Leo texts Bella a few times, but she doesn¡¯t reply. He has no choice but to call her, even though it¡¯s already late at night.


    "I feel much better now. I don¡¯t think my fever will come back. Please don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m just feeling tired and stressed because I can¡¯t stop thinking about the bitch Laura Kiels and Andreas Corby. I know you¡¯re concerned, but I¡¯ll be okay..." Bella said, attempting to lighten the mood. She could sense Leo¡¯s worry from his words and tone.


    "Thank God! When I was at the mining site, I wanted to return to the villa as soon as possible to check on you. But Sam sent me a message that you were alright and fell asleep after they injected you with medicine."


    "Mmm... I only need a few hours of sleep and feel much better now. Tell me about your site visit."


    Leo informed Bella about his visit to the mining site. After that, he suddenly remembered something important they needed to discuss. He told her about Laura Kiels, who appears too bold in attacking Stellar Entertainment on social media through her paid A-Netz buzzers.


    Laura Kiels¡¯ paid digital army keeps blaming Stellar Entertainment for her withdrawal from the industry. He also informed her that a few hours ago, the new CEO of Stellar called him and requested a meeting with Bella to discuss this matter. The CEO wanted to sue them all, but the legal team was against it.


    "Boss, I think you have delayed solving this problem too long. I¡¯m worried this problem will impact our other businesses if you delay more." Leo said worriedly.


    ¡¯Can that bitch wait a bit until I return to the capital? Why does she look so rushed? Why are you so rushed, Laura Kiels?¡¯ Bella silently took a deep breath.


    "Leo, there¡¯s no need to worry about that woman. She will face the consequences of her actions soon enough. You can also inform the new CEO, and we¡¯ll discuss everything further when we return." Bella said calmly, but Leo still found her response inadequate.


    Leo expressed helplessness to Bella, stating that the company had been under coordinated attack by paid A-Netz buzzers. The fake news and misinformation campaign blaming the company for Laura Kiels¡¯ termination has made the trending list on several social media platforms.


    "Leo, why aren¡¯t you as sharp as usual? You should know my strategy, right!?" Bella asked. When she heard him take a deep breath on the other end, she chuckled before continuing, "Geez! You don¡¯t seem to focus on your work. What happened?" sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 181: Please Don’t Get Sick Again

    "Bella, I apologize for being slightly distracted with my family matters," Leo said.


    "Leo, I¡¯m sorry to hear that," Bella suddenly felt worried. Tell me about your family matters. Maybe I could help you resolve them," She sincerely offered help.


    Leo chuckled, "Thank you, Bella, but I don¡¯t want to burden your already bustling life more. Also, I don¡¯t want you to get sick again, hahaha¡­.Anyway, I think it would be best if I handled it alone. So, I will handle it by myself..."


    For a few seconds, Bella was silent.


    "If you say so. But, promise me something. Promise me that if you need my help, you will never hesitate to ask, okay?"


    "Yes, I promise," Leo smiled faintly before he continued, "Boss, thanks for making my mind clear, and my heart feels light again. Now, back to the topic, I know what you did. You let them continue to troll us because you wanted to collect evidence against them, right?"


    "Now, this is the Leo that I know of¡ªa great observant and analyst. Yes, you are right. While they troll us, I secretly gather any evidence for our comprehensive retaliation. We don¡¯t do things halfway." A confident smile slowly emerges from her beautiful face.


    She continues, "Once I get enough evidence to throw them in prison, I will slowly release the evidence of that bitch¡¯s dark past and dark attitude to the public through anonymous third or even fourth parties that are impossible to be traced back to me.


    You know Leo, when I retaliate, I will ensure it will damage her reputation so much that she could never return to this country¡¯s entertainment industry." Bella said casually.


    However, Leo, who listened to every word Bella said with great attention, couldn¡¯t help but fear and praise her simultaneously. ¡¯Now you are back, Bella... merciless to anyone who tries to mess with you! I would never want to be your enemy.¡¯


    A cold smile appeared on the corners of Bella¡¯s lips before she continued, "And my retaliation is not limited to Laura Kiels. Her manager will have a similar fate. He, too, will suffer my retribution..."


    Bella still remembered how Laura¡¯s manager tried embarrassing her and Leo at Moon Coffee a few weeks ago. She wouldn¡¯t let him go just like that.


    Leo chuckled softly before saying, "Bella, you know what? This is the same Bella I knew when we met in college and when you, Jack, and Harper built the RDF Group. You have never let people get away when they have messed with you."


    "Is that so!? I don¡¯t remember that." Bella smiles faintly. Her mind is blurry about her past self.


    "Boss, you were and are still the most amazing woman I have ever met. You could have become a successful woman if you continued to pursue your career after college. It really surprised me when you suddenly disappeared from us. I have always thought that if you had continued to thrive in the business world, you would have become this country¡¯s most powerful businesswoman..."


    Just hearing Leo¡¯s words was enough to make Bella smile bitterly because what Leo said was true. She abandoned her youthful dreams because her love for Tristan blinded her.


    What Bella hated about her past was that her feelings overpowered her common sense. She was willing to accept when her in-laws and parents tried to manipulate her and often verbally abused her.


    This is what she is trying to fix now. She will not return to her past self.


    Even if she falls in love with Tristan or another man again, she will never allow her heart to be blinded by her love for them.


    She will never allow her feelings to cloud her judgment again. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She will never allow someone to manipulate or abuse her again.


    Never!


    "Leo, what you said was true. But I don¡¯t like to dwell in the past, so I hope you do the same. I¡¯m returning now, so let¡¯s only talk about the present and the future."


    "Consider it done, Boss. I¡¯m sorry if my melancholic words annoyed you. I just want to say that you are still young and have plenty of time to achieve your goals, Boss."


    "I see. Do you think I have a chance to be as amazing as you said before? I mean, to succeed in my career in this industry? Well, at least to achieve what Jack expects us to achieve!?" she asked.


    "Of course! As long as I¡¯m on your team, I can guarantee that. Hahaha. Let¡¯s make Jack¡¯s targets a success!" Leo¡¯s firm response made her laugh.


    "Hahaha¡­.great way to guarantee long-term employment with me, Leo. Thanks for the laugh, though."


    "Hahaha, you are welcome...I like working for you."


    Leo continues, "But Bella... please don¡¯t get sick again. Don¡¯t take all the company¡¯s burdens upon yourself. I¡¯ve felt guilty lately because you¡¯ve been handling everything while I¡¯ve had plenty of time to do nothing. If you continue to do so in the future, you might as well fire me. There¡¯s no point in me being your senior secretary in the company..." Leo said seriously.


    Leo had wanted to say this a few times but was always reluctant because Bella seemed to enjoy what she was doing. However, after seeing her sick from exhaustion, he couldn¡¯t help but express his thoughts.


    Bella¡¯s heart warmed when she heard Leo¡¯s words. She knew how caring and concerned Leo was for her.


    "Thank you, Leo..." she faintly said. "You better prepare yourself to work even harder in the future; you might not have time to rest. And you can¡¯t complain to me. At least don¡¯t expect me to listen. Hahaha."


    "Hahaha, yeah. I get it, Boss. I¡¯ve asked for it, anyway."


    Even though Bella wanted to say more, she felt drowsy ¡ª her medicine¡¯s effects were starting to kick in.


    Bella ended the phone call and told Leo they would continue discussing the work tomorrow.


    Once she turns off the lights and her cell phone, she lies on the bed and effortlessly sleeps for only a few minutes.


    And she was sleeping like a baby.

 Chapter 182: Tristan Arrive At The Beach House

    Next morning.


    It was almost seven o¡¯clock. Noora hurriedly walked to the main villa. She wants to go straight upstairs to Dax¡¯s room to wake him.


    However, just as Noora was about to ascend the stairs, her steps halted when she saw a man with fast, steady, and graceful strides approaching her.


    Noora¡¯s brow furrowed slightly as the man drew nearer, and his face became more apparent. Instantly, she gasped in shock as she recognized that the tall, elegant, and handsome figure was none other than Master Tristan Sinclair.


    "W-What? What¡¯s happening?" Noora muttered softly, taken aback by what she saw. "How come I see Master Tristan here? Shouldn¡¯t he be in Singapore and only arriving here a couple of days from now?"


    Noora blinked several times, trying to assure herself that what she witnessed was merely her imagination.


    "Am I dreaming?" She whispered.


    However, Tristan drew closer, and Noora heard his charming voice.


    "Good morning, Noora. Why did you look stunned like that? Is there something wrong?" Tristan asks rhetorically and casually, walking past her and ascending to the second floor.


    "Heavens! Is that you, Master Tristan? How? I mean, weren¡¯t you supposed to be in Singapore?" Noora hurriedly climbed the stairs, following closely behind.


    Tristan¡¯s swift, purposeful strides left Noora several steps behind. She saw him halt, waiting for her not far from the staircase¡¯s end. When she reached the top, she stood before him.


    "Forgive me, Master Tristan. I was just shocked and curious. If I may ask, why are you already here? From what I heard from Young Master Dax, you are in Singapore and will only arrive here two days later?"


    "Oh, did Dax tell you that? Hmmm¡­I, too, was as shocked as you, Noora. Maybe because I love my wife and son a little too much." Tristan cheerfully said, smiling.


    "S-Sir, you did a great job," Noora couldn¡¯t help but praise him, giving Tristan two thumbs up. "Young Master Dax will be thrilled to see you. He talked about you a lot yesterday..."


    "He did? Thank you for telling me this, Noora. Do you want to wake my son?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes, sir. Young Master Dax was supposed to do his martial arts training this morning, but I fell asleep, so I was going to wake him..." Noora lowered her gaze, feeling embarrassed and guilty for the mistake.


    "It¡¯s fine. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll tell Dax I insist you let me wake him first."


    "Thank you, sir."


    Tristan walked towards Dax¡¯s room. However, before he entered, he stopped and looked at Noora. "Noora, please don¡¯t wake Bella. I¡¯ll wake her later..."


    Noora nodded, understanding Tristan¡¯s plan. A smile of approval radiated from her eyes.


    ¡¯Good luck, Master!¡¯ Noora whispered in her heart. She strongly supports Master Tristan in reuniting with Miss Bella after she learns the truth about what happened in the past from Geoffrey.


    ...


    Tristan slowly opened the door. It was dark, and the bright light from outside couldn¡¯t come in, blocked by the tightly closed thick curtains.


    He walked to the window and drew the curtains aside to let in light. Seeing his son still asleep, the blanket no longer covering his body but at the tips of his feet, made him smile.


    Tristan approached the bed and sat on the edge. He noticed his son¡¯s pajamas slightly pushed up, revealing his ample stomach and chubby hand resting on it.


    Seeing him sleeping like this, he didn¡¯t have the heart to wake him up.


    However, when Tristan remembered that his son had to practice martial arts, he gently patted Dax¡¯s hand while calling his name.


    Tristan leaned closer and whispered, "Dax..." When he saw Dax¡¯s eyelids move and slowly open, he continued, "Good morning, my son." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax¡¯s eyes widened upon hearing the familiar voice. He turned to look in its direction and was shocked to see his father.


    "Da-Daddy?" he asked in his hoarse voice. He was astonished. How could his father be sitting on his bed now?


    "A-Are you really here? Or am I just dreaming?" Dax continued after several blinks to ensure his father was still there. And indeed, his father was still there, smiling at him. He immediately sat up.


    Tristan¡¯s smile widened. "You¡¯re not dreaming, my son," He helped Dax sit up and embraced him.


    "Oh my god, Daddy... so you are back!?"


    "I flew back immediately after finishing work..." he said.


    But Tristan wasn¡¯t entirely honest because he was supposed to meet with executives at his company on the second day. However, after hearing that Bella was hospitalized, he canceled the meeting and immediately flew back to Astington.


    As soon as Tristan released his embrace, Dax smiled with happiness. He couldn¡¯t believe that God had immediately answered his prayer ¡ª He had sent his father back to holiday with them.


    However, Dax¡¯s smile slowly vanished when he remembered something. He asked, "Daddy, did you return because I made you worry...?" His face looked tense.


    Tristan smoothed Dax¡¯s messy hair. "Of course not, Dax. I came back quickly because I missed you and your mommy."


    "Thank you, Daddy..." Dax smiled even wide before he continued, "Can we go fishing today?" his eyes blinked, waiting for the answer.


    "Sure. But, now you have to get ready. Aunty Noora is waiting outside. She said you have training with Geoffrey."


    Instantly, Dax jumped out of bed. "Oh my, I overslept. Daddy, I¡¯m sorry. Even though I still miss you, I can¡¯t talk much with you now. I have to go to practice immediately. Are you okay with that?"


    Tristan laughed amusedly when he saw how adorable he was. "Sure, Dax. We can continue our discussion later. Besides, I also need to wake up your mother. I need to talk to her. You know what I mean, right?"


    Dax¡¯s steps halted just before he was about to enter the bathroom. He turned to his father, who was standing near the bedroom door.


    "Daddy, I hope you win back my mommy¡¯s heart this time."


    When Tristan listened to Dax¡¯s words, his heart grew tense. He could only smile at him and say, "I will do my best, son. And please pray for me."

 Chapter 183: He Would Tell Her

    Tristan went to Bella¡¯s room after discussing Dax with Noora for a while.


    Today, Tristan, who has been harboring deep feelings for Bella, decides to be honest with her about their status. He felt approaching her with such intentions for a month was enough.


    He slowly turned the doorknob of Bella¡¯s door. ¡¯It¡¯s not locked! Of course, you dummy! Bella won¡¯t lock it if Dax sleeps in a separate room,¡¯ Tristan said inwardly before stepping inside.


    The room was dimly lit, with only a ray of sunlight seeping through the slightly opened curtains.


    His heart started pounding as his eyes fixed on the bed. He silently closed the door before approaching the large bed in the center of the room. Bella lay there like a sleeping angel.


    Tristan sat on the edge of the bed, his actions frozen by his concern. He didn¡¯t dare disturb her, not even to brush the hair from her face. Afraid she would be awake, he wanted to let her sleep a little longer.


    Based on her medical report, Tristan understands that she is suffering from chronic fatigue, which is a result of the hard work and stressful situation she is currently experiencing.


    Upon his flight landing in this city, Tristan learned that Bella¡¯s company, Stellar Entertainment, faced issues with Laura Kiels¡¯ fans. He began to suspect that her health had dropped due to her work.


    ¡¯Bella, if you need my help, please ask me. I would do anything for you...¡¯ he whispered.


    After feasting his eyes on her beauty, his eyes slowly moved to her smooth white neck and stopped at her chest. He felt his blood boiling and his body heat rising. He quickly averted his gaze, afraid he couldn¡¯t resist joining her under the blanket.


    ¡¯Bella, did you know? Even when you sleep, you successfully torture me like this...¡¯ Tristan laughed bitterly in his heart as he stood up from the bed and walked towards the window; he needed to calm his mind and heart.


    Tristan stood by the window and watched his son, Dax, train with Geoffrey on the white sand. Dax looked serious, but he smiled and laughed sometimes. He didn¡¯t look like he was training in martial arts; he looked more like playing and exercising.


    Though Dax had been training for a few weeks, his progress was faster for a toddler his age but slower than kids in junior school. And that is what Geoffrey aimed. He didn¡¯t push Dax too hard. Instead, he focused on building the foundations of Dax¡¯s power, discipline, fun, and love of the sport.


    Tristan stood there watching Dax from the second-floor window for so long that he lost track of time until he heard Bella¡¯s voice groaning in pain. Worried, he quickly turned towards the bed, seeing her body move slightly. Without hesitation, he walked over to her to check on her.


    Tristan noticed Bella¡¯s forehead furrowing as if she was having a bad dream; he slowly sat back down on the edge of the bed, just in case Bella needed him. His eyes fell on her face. Then, he saw her eyes tremble, and her eyelashes slowly opened.


    His smile widened.


    However, when Bella¡¯s hands finally came out of the blanket, and she pushed it away from her body, Tristan¡¯s smile suddenly disappeared. The tension was replaced when his gaze began to move down to look at her body, which was only covered by a thin nightgown, so thin that he could even see her hard nipples beneath the cloth.


    For a moment, Tristan couldn¡¯t blink; he was too shocked by the beautiful, seductive sight he saw now.


    "T-Tristan!!" Instantly, Bella¡¯s hoarse-shocked voice broke the silence as she pulled the blanket she had just thrown off to cover her entire body; only his eyes were now visible, widened as he looked at Tristan. "Wh-What are you doing in my... my room?" she stammered.


    The passion that almost made Tristan lose control suddenly disappeared when he heard Bella say his name in surprise.


    He looked into her eyes with an awkward smile. "Good morning, beautiful... how are you today?" His gentle and soft voice caused Bella¡¯s heart to start making a loud and strange sound again. Badam! Badam! Badam!


    Tristan completely ignored Bella¡¯s question. His eyes calmly and gently met her panicked and awkward eyes.


    "Are you feeling better now, Bella? Is there anything I can get you? A glass of water, perhaps?" he asked. She didn¡¯t answer right away but simply looked at him.


    Later,


    Bella shook her head and said, "Thanks, Tristan. No need. I¡¯m fine..." She finally managed to utter something.


    As she was processing her shock, she suddenly remembered that Tristan had left all his work in another country and rushed to her side when he found out that she was sick and had been admitted to the hospital. How could she possibly ignore such a selfless act of love and care? She knew she couldn¡¯t.


    Bella sat up slowly from the bed and wrapped the blanket tightly around her body up to her chest. She worried that Tristan might think she was teasing him because her nightgown was thin.


    When their eyes met, she suddenly blurted out the countless thoughts dancing in her mind since last night.


    "I thought you would only be here in the next few days. Why did you come here so early? What about your work? You should have stayed in Singapore and finished your business trip. Won¡¯t there be any negative effects because you rushed back here?" She asked in worry. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan felt his heart swell, flattered by her question. His mind once more reminds him, ¡¯Man, this is a sign! Subtle, though. But it¡¯s still a sign! Bella is starting to reciprocate your feelings...¡¯ Hearing his inner voice encouraging him boosted his mood and confidence to win back her heart.


    Despite not answering Bella¡¯s questions, Tristan extended his arm, placed his hand on her waist, and gently guided her to sit much closer on his lap.

 Chapter 184: You Can’t Avoid Him

    Their faces were close, and their eyes met on the same level. He noticed her surprise but didn¡¯t detect any signs of rejection, which filled him with joy. He reached out and used his hand to brush away some of her messy hair gently. Once again, Tristan felt his heart swell bigger, and it felt warm when Bella didn¡¯t stop him at all.


    He finished straightening her hair, then once more, he gazed into her eyes with a loving smile.


    "Bella," said Tristan. A warm smile slowly spread across his lips before he continued. "I have often told you I am willing to give up everything for you and Dax. My family is the only thing I care about."


    "T-Tristan, but¡ª"


    Tristan halted Bella mid-sentence with his finger, gently stroking her red but slightly dry lips. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I know you must feel guilty, Bella. But, please don¡¯t... You don¡¯t have to feel like that."


    Tristan smiled as he rubbed her warm cheek with his thumb, noticing her shoulder slightly slump.


    "Do you know what, Bella? When you were in the hospital, I felt like I had lost you for the second time. I was scared and didn¡¯t care about anything else. I flew back here to see you and..." Tristan¡¯s sentence abruptly ended as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close.


    Bella was taken aback when Tristan suddenly embraced her, causing her to drop her blanket. However, she did not resist the embrace; instead, she slightly leaned her head on his shoulder.


    His smile widened when he felt Bella not pushing him, even voluntarily leaning her head on his shoulder.


    "I want to hold you close like this. I want to stay by your side to protect and care for you for the rest of your life. It hurts me to think that you¡¯re suffering alone," Tristan whispered near her ear as he tightened his embrace. "I love you so much. Please, give me a chance to prove that I¡¯m sincere about what I said."


    Tristan embraced the woman he loved silently, holding onto her tightly; he would never let her go again.


    Before long,


    He finally released her from his embrace and pulled back slightly, admiring her beautiful face.


    But for some reason, Tristan¡¯s heart slowly tightened when he realized that Bella hadn¡¯t said a word since he hugged her. Even when he kissed her forehead gently, she did not resist.


    He should be happy. But her silence made him worried.


    Tristan glanced over to see her small, delicate hands resting on her lap. He gently took her hand and held it tightly. He slowly raised his gaze to meet hers. Her eyes were slightly red, and the light was fading, making his heart tense.


    Why did she look sad?


    "Bella, please say something," Tristan said softly.


    Tristan was scared. He would have preferred if Bella had immediately stopped talking or scolded him rather than being treated silently like this.


    ...


    As Bella heard his confession, her heart began to race once again. She blinked a few times, unable to maintain eye contact with him. Her gaze shifted to their linked hands, and her heart began to beat even faster.


    Bella felt an intense sensation in her chest that she hadn¡¯t experienced in a long time. The thunderous beating of her heart was more intense than the fluttering she had felt every time she interacted with Tristan over the past few weeks.


    ¡¯Has my heart melted for him again!?¡¯ Bella asked herself. She was unsure how to react to his sweet sincerity.


    "Bella, are you mad at me?" Tristan impatiently asked Bella, curious to know her reaction.


    Upon hearing Tristan¡¯s voice again, Bella felt even more pressure from the feelings she had attempted to suppress. However, suddenly, a small voice from within her heart spoke up, saying, ¡¯You can¡¯t avoid your feelings any longer, Bella! It¡¯s time to be honest with yourself and with him.¡¯


    Bella took a deep breath. Just before she wanted to express her feelings and what was on her mind to Tristan, all the sentences stopped on the tip of her tongue when she realized something.


    Instantly, she feels her face hot again.


    Why am I in this position? Sitting on his lap in such thin clothes?


    Bella became even more embarrassed when she clearly saw her own curves.


    ¡¯Did you secretly tell him you wanted him too? Is that why you¡¯re wearing such a seductive evening gown?¡¯ She can¡¯t help but vent her frustration.


    "Tristan," Bella¡¯s voice was so low as she turned her gaze to him. "Let me change clothes first before we talk."


    Tristan was happy when he heard Bella finally speak. When he saw her face blush, his heart raced even more.


    "Okay. I will carry you to the bathroom."


    Tristan swiftly wrapped his strong arms around Bella¡¯s waist and lifted her in a princess-style carry.


    "Please, put me down, Tristan. I can walk alone." She protests.


    "It¡¯s fine, Bella," he smiled.


    Bella had no choice but to embrace Tristan¡¯s neck and hide her face in his chest. His fresh, masculine scent filled her nose and fogged her mind. She tried to calm her heart but didn¡¯t dare move or say anything because, at this moment, the rumbling in her chest grew louder.


    Not long after, Tristan stopped in front of the bathroom and slowly put Bella down.


    "Do you need something!?" Tristan asked. "I could help you..."


    "Please have a seat on the couch and wait for me while I change," Bella said as she hurried into the bathroom.


    "Don¡¯t rush, dear..." Tristan replied with a beaming smile as he strolled towards the sofa, feeling elated.


    ...


    Bella closed the door behind her and took a deep breath while placing her hand on her chest, hoping to calm her racing heart.


    Soon enough, she felt much better, and a faint smile appeared on her lips. She walked towards the wash basin to wash her face, but as soon as she saw her reflection in the mirror, she felt her knees weaken.


    "Wh-who are you? Why do you look so weird!?"

 Chapter 185: What Makes You Reluctant?

    "Wh-who are you? Why do you look so weird!?"


    Bella could not recognize the reflection of her face in the mirror in front of her. The person in the mirror¡¯s hair looked untidy and messy, while her cheeks were rosy and red as if she were wearing a heavy blusher.


    She shook her head and turned on the tap, splashing her still-hot face with cold water.


    After finishing her cleaning routine, Bella quickly walked to her walk-in closet to change clothes.


    ...


    Later,


    Bella paused in front of the mirror to check her appearance. She smiled, pleased with her choice of dress. The knee-length dark blue dress makes her skin look brighter.


    However, upon seeing her hair, she could only shake her head and scold herself.


    "I can¡¯t believe it, Bella! Why are you exposing your long neck like that? Are you trying to make him turn on?" She reached up to undo her bun but then hesitated. "I wonder how he¡¯ll respond to this!" A mischievous grin played on her lips as she imagined Tristan¡¯s surprise.


    Bella immediately left the walk-in closet and joined Tristan on the couch. However, she did not see him there; he stood by the window with his back facing her.


    She suddenly stopped in her tracks when she realized that he had taken off his coat and was now only wearing a black shirt. He had rolled up his sleeves to his elbows, revealing the well-defined muscles in his arms. His hands were tucked inside the pockets of his khaki pants.


    As she looked at his broad shoulders, her heart skipped a beat. She took a deep breath and silently approached him. She was curious to know what had captured his attention so much that he hadn¡¯t even noticed her by his side.


    Upon following his line of sight, Bella¡¯s smile gradually widened as she saw Dax playing on white sand with Noora and Geoffrey, building a sand castle with pure joy beaming on his face.


    "I¡¯ve never seen him this happy," Bella spoke softly, surprising Tristan. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan looked at her and shuddered as he saw she styled her hair to expose her smooth neck.


    "Oh, sorry, I didn¡¯t realize you were done dressing..." he said, his throat suddenly dry as his mind tortured him with sultry thoughts.


    "Hmmm..."


    Bella answers him without shifting her gaze from Dax. "Gosh! Dax is such a hardworking little baby. He¡¯s already finished his martial arts training this hour," she said faintly.


    Tristan knew Bella was feeling sad again as she thought about their son being exhausted from physical training.


    He tried to distract Bella. He placed his hand on her shoulder and turned her body towards the couch. He jokingly said, "Okay, ma¡¯am... let¡¯s sit down and chat."


    Bella did not refuse. She smiled faintly at his joke and followed him to the seating area. They sat down on a two-seater sofa, facing each other.


    "I still need to hear your answer, Bella," Tristan said softly.


    As Bella looked into his beamed blue eyes, she felt her nerves getting the best of her. She wanted to express that the icy wall guarding her heart had finally melted away, but she found herself unable to move her lips to speak.


    Annoyed at losing her words, Bella cupped her hands on her thighs and turned away from him.


    Tristan could sense the anxiety and doubt in Bella¡¯s eyes, and he couldn¡¯t stop himself from asking again. "Bella, can you please tell me what¡¯s making you hesitate to accept me back? Don¡¯t you believe my feelings for you?" His voice sounded despair.


    Hearing his words, she immediately looked back at him while shaking her head.


    Tristan furrowed his brow as he noticed her reaction. After a moment, he asked, "Are you still worried about my parents interfering with our relationship?"


    Bella shook her head again. That wasn¡¯t what he was worried about. Tristan and Grandpa Lewis promised they would protect her and Dax if she returned to Tristan, and she would try to believe them.


    Tristan¡¯s brows furrowed even more.


    "Please tell me where I am lacking so I know what I should do to make myself better for you. Or, at least, can you please share your worries with me, Bella? I will listen to you."


    Bella opened her mouth several times, but no words came out, and she didn¡¯t know why. Feeling frustrated and confused about how to begin, her hands clenched into tight fists, annoyed with herself. She lowered her gaze, looking at her hands while secretly taking a deep breath.


    However, when she saw Tristan¡¯s hand holding hers, Bella was taken aback. She looked up at him with a frown. But as soon as she saw his calm and gentle smile, her confusion faded, and she could think more clearly.


    "Share your worries with me, Bella... Let¡¯s untangle your worries and solve them together. Would you like to do that with me?"


    "Tristan," she finally spoke after a few seconds of silence. "When we last spoke about what happened between us five years ago, I promised to bury the memories of you and my love for you deep in the deepest part of my heart.


    However, lately, as layer by layer of what happened in the past has been exposed, and with your sincere approach towards me, the wall I built around my heart in the past has started to crack..."


    Bella paused when she felt Tristan¡¯s grip tighten but continued when she saw his curious gaze.


    "Every day, I allowed you to prove your words and actions to me and Dax. And you know what, Tristan? You succeeded in flattering me..." She smiles bitterly, remembering how this man shattered her walls with his sweet, gentle actions.


    She continued, "No matter how much I wanted to deny my feelings for you, I couldn¡¯t. My heart couldn¡¯t ignore you, Tristan..."


    Tristan¡¯s happy smile widened, clearly visible in his eyes, as he couldn¡¯t contain his joy upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    "However, there¡¯s something that makes me hesitant to open up to you again, Tristan," Bella said, her heart racing as she watched his smile fade and his face grow tense with fear.


    "W-Why? What makes you reluctant?"

 Chapter 186: We Are Still Legally Married, Bella!

    "W-Why? What makes you reluctant?"


    Bella looked Tristan in the eye and said, "Tristan, I¡¯ve promised someone..." Her voice trailed off when she saw his worried gaze.


    She can¡¯t bring herself to tell him that she promised Sean Spencer a chance¡ªif Sean¡¯s parents one day accept their relationship, she¡¯ll give him a chance, try to love him, and marry him. This made her reluctant to decide, as she had to meet Sean to talk heart-to-heart about this matter.


    If she accepted Tristan without meeting Sean, it would betray her promise to him. The thought of hurting Sean or breaking the trust they had built was unbearable.


    Tristan felt his heart slowly ache as he guessed what was bothering Bella at the moment. He didn¡¯t want to put any pressure on her or put her in the corner, so he promised to wait until she felt ready to tell him.


    However, after five silent and eerie minutes, Bella still said nothing. She only looked at their intertwined hands. Despite the eerie feeling, Tristan feels grateful because even though Bella didn¡¯t say anything, at least she didn¡¯t pull her hand away. She let him gently caress her hand.


    A smile slowly appeared on his lips before he casually asked, "Bella. I¡¯m sorry if I say this¡­..Are you hesitant to accept me again because of Sean Spencer?"


    Bella was stunned to hear that; she immediately looked up to meet his gaze.


    Tristan saw Bella not saying anything but only looking at him with her confused-looking eyes.


    He continued, "I¡¯ll take your silence as you inwardly say yes. So, it¡¯s really because of Sean Spencer, huh..."


    A faint smile slowly appeared on the corners of his lips before he calmly said, "I¡¯m sure you know my good relationship with Sean¡¯s parents, right?"


    She slightly nods.


    "Are you and Sean a couple now? I mean¡ª" Tristan couldn¡¯t finish his words. His heart ached like it had been stabbed by a hundred nails when he imagined Sean having a romantic relationship with his wife. But Tristan pushed himself to look as calm and as composed as possible.


    Tristan had always refused to believe that Sean and Bella were in a serious relationship. So, he never wanted to bring up this topic when they had time to chat, probably because he also feared hearing answers he didn¡¯t want to hear. But now, he pulled himself together and dared to ask her.


    "No. We are not a couple¡­well, not yet!"


    Hearing Bella¡¯s firm answer and how quickly she denied it shocked him.


    Did he hear it wrong?


    "Are you saying he is not your boyfriend? At least not yet?" he asked to ensure he had heard it correctly.


    She nodded slowly.


    "He¡¯s not my boyfriend, but I¡¯ve had a close relationship with Sean since I was a teenager. And in the last two years, we¡¯ve gotten even closer..." Bella began to explain to Tristan how Sean helped her and Dax a lot when they were still living in Sweden.


    Bella also told him that Sean always confessed his feelings to her. Still, she always rejected him because she wanted to focus on raising Dax and didn¡¯t plan on starting a new relationship.


    Tristan feels his heart tighten, nervous to hear her story. But he tries hard not to ask her any further.


    "But when I arrived on my first day in the country, Sean expressed his feelings again..." Bella paused to take a deep breath before continuing.


    "That day, I still firmly rejected him and told him my biggest reason why I couldn¡¯t be with him¡ªhis family. I know who his family is. However, Sean still tried to convince me; he promised me blessings from his parents." A wry smile slowly appeared on her face, remembering that day ¡ª she felt bad about giving him hope.


    "Well, at that time, I knew his parents would never accept me, but I still gave him hope... If his parents accept me and Dax without hesitation, I will consider his proposal to marry me," Bella said softly. She felt her shoulders lighten after she expressed what was bothering her mind. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan slowly released his grip on her hand, leaving Bella frowning.


    Bella slowly lowered her gaze, looking at her hands. Her mind was confused as to why he suddenly withdrew his hand. Was he angry after hearing about her relationship with Sean?


    She clenched her hands in worry; when she was about to ask him, she suddenly felt his warm hand caressing her cheek.


    This!?


    Bella immediately looked up to see him; However, she was shocked when she realized that Tristan¡¯s face was so close to her. She couldn¡¯t help but blink when their eyes met. Before she could say anything, Tristan asked, "Do you love him?"


    "NO. I haven¡¯t fallen in love with him, not yet... But if one day his parents approve of us, Maybe I can learn how to love¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s index finger landed on her lips, silencing her.


    "Bella, there is no future for you and Sean Spencer. Because his parents would never approve of him marrying you..." A confident smile framed his handsome face, confusing Bella.


    "Why are you so sure about that? Even Sean convinced me that his parents would accept me," Bella narrowed her eyes on him before continuing. "Sean was only unlucky because he had to fly to another country that night and didn¡¯t have time to meet his parents. So..." She shrugs.


    "Do you want to know why I am so confident in saying that?" Tristan now held both her hands again. He ensured Bella looked into his eyes before continuing, "Because you are still my wife, Bella. We are still legally married. If Sean came to his parents and said he wanted to marry my wife, his parents might break his legs."


    Bella gasped in shock.


    She no longer heard Tristan¡¯s last words because his words, "We are still legally married." Shocked her.


    What does it mean?


    Why did Tristan suddenly admit we were still married!?

 Chapter 187: Please Explain To Me, Tristan!

    Bella gasped in shock. She no longer heard Tristan¡¯s last words because his words, "We are still legally married..." shocked her.


    What does it mean? Why did Tristan suddenly admit we were still married!?


    "So about your promise to Sean, I will discuss it with him. You don¡¯t need to worry about him. He would understand and support us if he knew about our status¡ª"


    "Wait, wait, Tristan! Please stop¡­" Bella stopped him from speaking further as she needed to clarify something with him. She was worried that she had misheard him.


    "Yes, dear¡­" Tristan¡¯s gentle tone and squeeze of their entangled hands sent a shiver down her spine. She silently swallowed and dared to continue looking into her eyes before expressing her confusion.


    "You said earlier¡­ We are still legally married. How is that possible!?"


    Bella still couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. How could they get married when she had already signed the papers? She clearly remembered his shameless lawyer forcing her to sign.


    "Yes, we are still husband and wife... Bella, you are still my wife because I never filed our divorce papers with the court," said Tristan calmly. However, Bella was stunned to hear his words.


    Instantly, countless questions danced in her mind, ¡¯Never submit to the court!? Why did he do that? I remember he sent his lawyer to force me to sign the letter. Why? Why...?¡¯


    So many questions rang in Bella¡¯s mind, immediately giving her a headache. She narrowed her eyes at Tristan before shouting his name in a cold, icy tone.


    "Tristan Sinclair..."


    "Yes, dear?"


    When Bella got his attention, she didn¡¯t utter anything. Instead, she pulled her hand from him and slapped his shoulder to vent her anger.


    How dare he do that? Force her to sign but not submit to the court? Did he try to prank her?


    "Are you kidding me, right!? How could you force me to sign that damn paper and never submit it to the court?"


    Bella¡¯s eyes burned with anger as she stared at him. However, when she saw his gentle smile slowly bloom from his lips and his handheld hers, she gritted her teeth, trying to maintain her annoyance.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella... I know apologizing is not acceptable. That¡¯s why you can slap or punch me again. I don¡¯t mind, darling."


    Bella was puzzled hearing his words. However, when Tristan led her hand to hit his chest, she gasped in surprise. She was utterly speechless by his random action.


    "I deserve your fist, Bella," Tristan said as he continued to let her tiny fist hit his chest.


    Bella, "...."


    How shameless!


    "What are you doing, Tristan?" Bella snapped, glaring at him as she tried to pull away her hand. But Tristan didn¡¯t give her a chance and continued his actions.


    "It¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t mind. I deserved to be hit. I¡¯m such a stupid husband¡­"


    After her hand punched his sturdy chest several times, Bella felt even more sorry. Her annoyance with him slowly faded, replaced by sadness when her fist hit his chest. For some reason, she felt a heartache when she did that.


    Unable to look into his eyes, Bella lowered her gaze and stared at his chest. In a trembling voice, she said, "Tristan, please stop¡­ I don¡¯t want to hit you. I did that because I was just annoyed you didn¡¯t tell me soo¡ª"


    Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because she threw herself into his chest to stop him from using her hand to blame himself.


    Tristan was surprised when he felt her softness in his chest. For a moment, he froze, but then, a spring-like smile slowly graced his face as he crossed his arms around her. He gently stroked her back, feeling content.


    After a long pause, finally, Bella said something.


    "I hate you, Tristan Sinclair... I¡¯m really mad at you," she said while still hiding her face in his chest. "But I feel like my heart hurts every time my hand punches you. I¡¯m confused. Why do I feel like that?" She felt puzzled with herself at the moment.


    The light in Tristan¡¯s eyes shone as he said, "That¡¯s because you still love me, Bella." He tightened his embrace and felt his heart swell from the happiness.


    "Thank you for giving me a chance despite hurting you in the past..." his voice slowly faded as he felt her tiny hands push him away. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella could see Tristan¡¯s face more clearly. She said, "Tristan, I want to hear everything. I want to hear why you didn¡¯t submit the papers in court¡­everything¡­"


    Bella had heard his confession, as well as about their misunderstandings and his delay in realizing how much he loved her. But now, she just wanted Tristan to explain everything to her again. She needed a complete explanation.


    ...


    After a few minutes, Bella found herself in his arms again while listening to him finish his words. Hearing his explanation entirely made her no longer angry with him; instead, she felt a weird feeling that now lingered in her heart.


    After five years, she thought they were divorced, and suddenly, now finding out they were still married, it felt absurd.


    However, after a while, something crossed Bella¡¯s mind. She looked slightly to meet his gaze before asking, "Tristan, why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner about this?"


    Tristan loosened his embrace upon hearing her question. After he had her sit properly again and look into her eyes, he gently placed his hand on her shoulder before answering.


    "I don¡¯t want to force you to accept me. That¡¯s why, during our first meeting, I didn¡¯t tell you the truth about our marital status. I didn¡¯t even tell you in the following days until now because I don¡¯t want to use it as my excuse to win back your heart..."


    His seriousness and sincerity struck Bella. She held back and waited for him to finish his words.


    Tristan¡¯s expression became even brighter as he said, "I want to approach you naturally, Bella. I don¡¯t want to make any mistakes¡ª"

 Chapter 188: Live Under The Same Roof?

    "I am not the same person who ignored you for years, even though you were his wife. Because now, I¡¯m the one who¡¯s fallen in love with you. So, Arabella Donovan, allow me to chase you back into my arms. Chase you back so you would love me, and I could love you more..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide how much his words touched her. Her spring-like smile slowly framed her happy face.


    She opened her mouth to say something, but when she saw Tristan¡¯s face getting closer, she slowly closed her eyes as she imagined him kissing her.


    Her heart starts to make a strange sound again. Badam! Badam! Badam!


    She starts to remember this feeling. This is the same feeling when she was madly in love with him.


    Bella didn¡¯t know how to react now. She had never pictured their status had always been as husband and wife. Tristan had never actually completed his intention to divorce her.


    Since their separation, he has been in love with her for the last five years. Bella¡¯s mind finds it hard to believe. But even so, her heart says otherwise, and it had betrayed her mind. She felt like accepting him again¡ªno, but she was willing to stand beside him again and become his legal wife.


    After a few seconds passed, Bella frowned.


    ¡¯Why didn¡¯t he kiss me? Did I imagine it wrong?¡¯ Bella wondered and slowly opened her eyes, trying to peek out.


    When Bella saw his face only an inch, she held her breath, feeling nervous. Just before their lips touched, the sound of the door opening caught their attention.


    "Ups...sorry..." Dax¡¯ cute voice echoes in the room. "Dad, mom... I¡¯m sorry..." Dax stopped when he saw his parents were about to kiss.


    They looked at him in surprise.


    Dax felt sorry, especially for his father, and worried that because of him, his father would fail again to win his mother¡¯s heart.


    "Y-Yes... baby?"


    "What happened?"


    Tristan and Bella awkwardly respond to their son while they try to sit properly as if nothing happened.


    "Sorry if I showed up and interrupted Daddy and Mommy from kissing. But I just want to tell you, Dad and Mom, breakfast is ready. And Gramps and Grandpa are waiting in the dining room. Ugh, I just wanted to say that. Ok... I will go down now¡­" Dax turned around and left.


    "Dax, don¡¯t go. Come here first..." Bella immediately called him before he closed the door.


    "Mommy, are you serious? I could join you...?" he asks while glancing at his father. He is worried that if he comes in, it will disturb them.


    Dax stands near the door, reluctant to enter.


    Tristan smiles, looking at his son, who seems to worry about him. He can¡¯t help but stand from his seat and approach him. He bends slightly down to pick him up. After closing the bedroom door, he joins Bella on the sofa. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Dax¡¯s worried gaze meets his, he whispers, "It¡¯s fine, son. There¡¯s something we need to tell you..." Tristan sat beside Bella and let Dax sit in his lap.


    Tristan glances at Bella, and when he sees her smile at Dax while playfully teasing their son, pinching his chubby cheek, he feels even more in love with her.


    "Have you finished practicing today?" Bella asked while trying to fix his messy hair. Seeing his clean, fair skin after bathing made her want to hug him. But she refrained because her son didn¡¯t like it if she did that before someone else; her little Dax was always shy.


    "Yes. I was about to head to the first floor when Aunt Noora asked me to tell Mom and Dad to have breakfast."


    "Oh, you¡¯re right. It¡¯s already eight o¡¯clock..." Bella was stunned. After talking to Tristan, she lost track of time; she even forgot her hunger. Geez!


    Just before Bella wanted to stand up and ask them to the dining room, Dax suddenly asked a question.


    "Dad, did my mom accept you? So, are we going to live in the same house!?" Dax looked at his parents in return, curiously waiting for them to answer his question.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer right away. He looked at Bella with his worried gaze. He was concerned about answering Dax because they hadn¡¯t talked about it yet.


    Deep in his heart, Tristan wanted Bella to move in with him immediately, but he wouldn¡¯t force her to do that. He can be patient, wait, and follow her decision.


    What was essential to Tristan right now was Bella¡¯s feelings for him. After a heart-to-heart conversation, he could feel that Bella had opened her heart to him again. This is what he hoped for. However, for some reason, he still worried that this was just his dream, his imagination.


    Bella could guess what Tristan was thinking now. She couldn¡¯t help but smile at him before she looked at their son.


    "Dax, Mom, and Dad will talk about it later," she answered him with a smile. But when the light in her son¡¯s eyes slowly faded, as if he looked disappointed, hearing her answer was enough to worry her.


    Confused, Bella looked back at Tristan, asking him to answer Dax. She was worried that if she said yes ¡ª they¡¯d move to live with him ¡ª Tristan would tell Dax otherwise.


    "Yes, Dax¡­ We¡¯ll live in the same house," Tristan answered firmly, his eyes still on Bella. When he saw her shock, he squeezed her hand gently with a gentle smile framing his handsome face.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything when she heard Tristan¡¯s words. Her heartbeat sped up at this moment.


    She had mixed feelings now; she was happy but also worried. After five years, she would start a new life with him. Even though Tristan is her husband by law, she feels today is the first time they have become husband and wife and have started living under the same roof. How nervous she is now.


    It¡¯s hard for her to describe her feelings now, but she feels like someone has just thrown her into cloud nine.


    "Really!?" Dax shouted excitedly as he turned his gaze towards Bella. "Mom, is that true? We¡¯re going to move to Dad¡¯s house?"


    "Yes..."

 Chapter 189: Everyone Knows

    Bella couldn¡¯t help but feel her cheeks heat up when she saw Lewis and Isaac¡¯s reactions¡ªseemingly congratulating her through their happy smiles¡ªas she entered the room while holding hands with Tristan.


    She looked up to Tristan and tried to pull her hand from his, but he refused to let go. His grip was firm as if he was determined to announce to everyone in the room that they were back together.


    Bella silently took a deep breath while turning her gaze away from Tristan, slightly annoyed. However, when her eyes fell on Noora, Geoffrey, and Nick, huddled in the corner with expressions mirroring those of Lewis and Isaac, Bella¡¯s inner turmoil intensified. She couldn¡¯t help but direct her frustration towards Tristan.


    Even though she had confessed her feelings to him, could he keep a low profile for a moment?


    Now, everyone looked at them strangely, walking while holding hands. Gosh!


    "Bella, Tristan, hurry up and have breakfast. It¡¯ll be launched soon if you don¡¯t eat now..." said Isaac, trying to break the tension when he saw Bella looking very tense and embarrassed.


    They both nodded in response to Isaac.


    When Bella saw Tristan talking to Dax, she took the opportunity to pull her hand from his. She walked faster to her seat and thanked Noora for helping her prepare her warm tea.


    Today, Bella avoided coffee because she was worried about her health.


    Later,


    Bella tried to ask Dax to sit between her and Tristan, but Tristan didn¡¯t allow that. He leaned closer and whispered, "Dax already had his breakfast¡­"


    She was speechless and sipped her tea to calm her nervousness. But a few seconds later, Bella felt even more nervous when she heard her Grandpa¡¯s words.


    "I¡¯m surprised to see you here, Tristan. I thought you would join us the next day. Why are you back early?" Isaac asked while looking at Tristan.


    When he asked Noora to wake Bella this morning, Isaac Donovan was shocked to know Tristan was upstairs with Bella.


    Isaac didn¡¯t expect to meet Tristan this early because Tristan hadn¡¯t mentioned anything about his sudden return in their Group chat, Cupid Alliance.


    Even though he was curious about Tristan¡¯s sudden return, Isaac asked Noora not to disturb them until nine o¡¯clock ¡ª to let Tristan talk to Bella. He knows his grandson-in-law aims to pursue Bella again.


    Tristan turned to see Isaac.


    "Grandpa... My important agenda in Singapore is finished. And because the rest of the agenda can be done online, I have no reason to stay there too long. Besides, I really miss my wife and son..." he explained, then continued eating again.


    However, Tristan¡¯s breakfast was interrupted again when Lewis Sinclair heard his answer.


    Lewis put his coffee cup on the table and narrowed his eyes at Tristan.


    ¡¯Why did Tristan call Bella his wife? Have they both remarried?¡¯ Lewis wondered. He really wanted them to get back together. Still, Tristan has never reported on his progress in winning Bella¡¯s heart. Not once. He feels confused.


    Unable to contain his curiosity, Lewis asked, "Tristan, have you and Bella remarried? Why didn¡¯t you tell us?"


    Bella felt tense; she slowly turned her gaze to Tristan. When she saw his smile, her heart pounded again.


    "Grandpa, Bella is my legal wife. I have never filed divorce papers with the court," Tristan continued to tell Lewis everything, making Lewis gasp in shock.


    A minute passed after Tristan explained his relationship with Bella. However, Lewis still couldn¡¯t digest all the information he was hearing. He quietly sat in his chair, with his eyes still looking at Tristan and Bella alternately. He was thinking about something.


    Another few minutes passed, and Lewis glanced at Isaac. He was surprised to see his best friend seemed calm. There¡¯s no trace of shock in him; instead, he looked relaxed, chatting playfully with Dax.


    "Isaac, did you know anything about this?" Lewis¡¯ eyes narrowed at Isaac.


    "Hmm, we all know something..." Isaac chuckled. "If I¡¯m not mistaken, you and Bella are the only ones who didn¡¯t know about this. Even our little Dax knows..."


    "What? Dax knows? He¡¯s a toddler, and he already knows about it!?" Lewis was rendered speechless.


    Lewis wasn¡¯t the only one surprised. Bella, who had just finished breakfast, was shocked to find out that her son already knew. Dax had never said anything about it to her, and he never said anything that could raise her suspicions. The boy cleverly remained silent about it all this time.


    Gosh!


    Bella turned her gaze to her Grandpa and then Dax. She saw the two of them returning her gaze with a smile. Then she looked at Noora, who smiled at her with the same expression.


    ¡¯Oh my, even Noora knows about this?¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t believe that even her trusted nanny kept this a secret from her.


    She shook her head slowly, then finished her tea to calm her mind, and tried not to get involved when Lewis started to scold Tristan.


    However, hearing Lewis¡¯s anger now, Bella felt amused because Lewis¡¯s annoyance was the same feeling she had when she found out about her marital status with Tristan.


    ...


    After breakfast, Bella could finally escape Isaac and Lewis¡¯s interrogation about her future romance. She returned to her room to make a phone call with Leo while the others still chatted in the living room.


    She needed to inform Leo about her sudden change of plans. Today, she would not follow the schedule to visit Celebes Energy. Instead, she would meet them at this beach house.


    On the second ring, the phone was immediately picked up. She could hear Leo¡¯s cheerful voice greeting her.


    "Good morning, Boss..."


    "Hi, morning, Leo..."


    "How are you today? Has your fever completely gone?" Leo asked in concern.


    "Much better," Bella answered. She felt relieved because she no longer felt her fever when she woke this morning, and her headache was gone. And most importantly, her body also felt lighter.


    "It¡¯s good to hear that, boss. OK, I will pick you up around eleven. We can have lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Celebes Energy."


    Bella immediately asked Leo to cancel their initial schedule.


    "Huh!? I thought you were already healthy. Why are you canceling our plan?" Leo asked confusedly.


    S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 190: Sharing Room With Tristan?

    Today, they were supposed to have their last meeting with Celebes Energy¡¯s key person. After that, they would have online meetings with Stellar Entertainment to discuss the trending news about Laura Kiel¡¯s army, who attacked them through cyberbullying.


    "I do want to go there, but Tristan returned from Singapore. He knows about my health, so I don¡¯t have a choice but to stay home." Bella took a deep breath.


    "Tsk! Tsk! Boss Tristan is so cool..." Leo couldn¡¯t hold back his admiration, impressed by Tristan¡¯s actions. Then he continued, "But how could Tristan know about your health?" Leo was curious to know.


    "I can¡¯t tell you how. But he is here and only allows me to work from home. He might follow us if I insist on going to Celebes Energy."


    "Come on, boss," Leo chuckled. "He is not your husband. Why do you listen to him?"


    Bella, "...."


    "Alright, you come to this beach house after lunch!"


    Beep!


    Bella ended the call without giving Leo a chance to speak.


    ...


    When Bella left her bedroom to look for Dax, she was surprised to see Geoffrey and Noora emerging from the stairs with two large black suitcases in their hands. They both walked towards her room.


    "What¡¯s this?" Bella asked, confused. She didn¡¯t remember having these two suitcases.


    "Yong Madam, this is Mr. Tristan¡¯s suitcase. We will unpack his clothes in the master bedroom," Geoffrey explained as he opened the door to her room and motioned for Noora to enter the room first.


    Bella, "...." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She knew they were still husband and wife, at least since today. But she had forgotten entirely that they would share the same room.


    "Young Madam, you look slightly pale... Are you alright?" Suddenly, Geoffrey¡¯s words snapped Bella. She immediately shook her head to answer him.


    "I¡¯m fine."


    Geoffrey still doubted. He clearly saw the anxiety in her expression, as if something was bothering her.


    "Mam, is there anything I can help you with?" he asked again.


    "I¡¯m fine, Geoffrey. You can continue what you¡¯re doing now." She gave him a reassuring smile and continued walking towards the stairs. However, her mind was still busy imagining that she would share a room with Tristan.


    Why did she forget this critical matter?


    Sigh!


    Bella silently took a deep breath while descending the stairs.


    ¡¯I think you need to remind Tristan, Bella! Even though you have opened your heart to him again, you need time to adjust to living as husband and wife with him. That¡¯s right!?¡¯ She tries to remind herself.


    After several years of living alone, the thought of sleeping with Tristan seemed strange. Memories of their past relationship came back to mind, sending shivers down her spine.


    Bella shook her head, trying to dismiss all her worry about it.


    ****


    There was no one in sight when Bella arrived in the living room.


    ¡¯Weren¡¯t they chatting here after eating earlier?¡¯ She thought as she walked to look in another room.


    But before she left the living room, Nick, her grandfather¡¯s butler, appeared. Bella¡¯s steps stopped.


    "Where are Dax and the others?" She asked Nick.


    "The elders are now in the library. While the young Master walked outside with his father."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She looked towards the backyard.


    Since arriving at this beach house, she hasn¡¯t had the chance to walk to the beach; she only sees the backyard garden and the beach through her window. And now, knowing that Dax and Tristan were there, she immediately felt wanted to follow them.


    "Do you need anything, Young Miss!?" Nick¡¯s question suddenly made Bella return her gaze to him.


    She shook her head quickly and asked Nick to continue his work.


    After seeing Nick leave the room, Bella walked towards the back door that connected the living room to the backyard.


    The gentle, cool air immediately greeted her when she left the house. She felt in a good mood and instantly forgot about her worry about sharing a room with Tristan from now on.


    She looked at the clear blue sky, pinching her eyes from the bright sun.


    Even though the sun is shining, the air is delightful for sunbathing. An idea appears in her mind: tomorrow, she is supposed to be free from work, and she will enjoy this lovely weather and bask under the sun.


    Bella passed the infinity pool and walked along the path toward the beach.


    She stood under a tree when she reached the beach, avoiding the sun. Her eyes were busy looking for Tristan and Dax, but she didn¡¯t see them.


    As far as her eyes could see, she didn¡¯t see anyone walking on the white sandy beach.


    "It seems I heard wrongly!?" She said, confused by Nick¡¯s information.


    Bella decides to return to the house. However, when she is about to walk, she sees Tristan and Dax getting out of the yacht, parked on the dock a few tens of meters from where she was.


    A smile slowly appeared on her face. Without her knowing, her feet took a step towards them.


    "Mommy..." Dax shouted happily as soon as he saw his mother. He ran towards her. "Mom¡­ Earlier, Dad explained the yacht to me. And we plan to sail this afternoon."


    Bella could only smile, hearing how enthusiastic Dax was talking about the yacht. As usual, his eyes beamed whenever he talks about something he likes.


    "Join us, Bella. It would be fun..." Tristan smiles lovingly. He tries to convince Bella to follow them. He found out from Dax that Bella had never been rested. She is busy with work.


    Bella looked up to see him in the eyes. Just before she wanted to say something, Dax held her hand and said, "Yes, Mommy... Come with us..." He pleaded.


    "I¡¯m sorry, baby. I do want to go with you but I can¡¯t. Uncle Leo will come this afternoon... Mom has a meeting with him." She feels sad about rejecting her son but can¡¯t cancel this meeting again.


    "Ah... " Dax softly responds.


    Looking at her son¡¯s sadness, she immediately said, "But starting tomorrow, Mommy will be free from work. So, we can have fun all day long."


    Dax and Tristan¡¯s smile grew wider.


    "Alright, We will arrange our trip tomorrow too..." Tristan said excitedly.

 Chapter 191: Your Parents Know!

    The three immediately entered the house. Dax went back to his room to take a nap. Meanwhile, Bella and Tristan, who were just about to go upstairs to rest, were stopped by Alan, Lewis Sinclair¡¯s butler.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Alan?" Tristan asked, sounding annoyed. He wanted to be alone with Bella, but Alan disturbed them.


    "Young Master, Old Master called you. He said there was something important he needed to discuss with you," Alan explained.


    Tristan¡¯s forehead furrowed as he looked at Alan. "Please tell Grandpa I¡¯m a little busy right now. I have something to do. We¡¯ll talk after lunch," he refused, even though he could see Alan¡¯s worried expression. But he still ignored it because there was something important he needed to discuss with Bella.


    ¡¯Busy! What are you busy with?¡¯ Standing next to Tristan, Bella could only smile silently when she heard Tristan¡¯s words.


    They had a lot of free time before lunchtime, and now Bella didn¡¯t even know what she wanted to do because she suddenly changed her schedule¡ªshe didn¡¯t go to her office. Taking a short nap looks like it would become her priority now.


    "Sorry, sir. But, this is very important..." Alan paused as he glanced at Bella; he felt reluctant to tell Tristan about this matter, especially when Bella was around.


    Looking at Alan, who seemed reluctant, Tristan became suspicious about something and asked, "What is it?"


    Alan can¡¯t help but inform him, "It¡¯s about your parents."


    Instantly, Tristan and Bella stiffened hearing that. For a moment, they exchanged glances as if communicating with each other through their gaze.


    Tristan started to feel afraid when he saw Bella¡¯s worried gaze. He decided not to prolong this matter any longer. He needed to take care of his parents soon.


    Later,


    Tristan held Bella¡¯s shoulder gently before saying, "Bella, can you go up first? I have to meet Grandpa..."


    "Mhm, sure... go talk with Grandpa. This must be important..." She smiled faintly, trying to tell him that she was okay.


    Even though he was reluctant, Tristan finally nodded, "I¡¯ll go upstairs immediately. You take a rest first. Please don¡¯t work..." He knew Bella liked to work, but right now, he just wanted her to rest and recover her condition quickly.


    Bella could only respond with a smile, hearing his words. She wasn¡¯t used to getting that much attention from other people, especially Tristan.


    ...


    Even though he was reluctant, Tristan followed Alan to his grandfather¡¯s room.


    When they entered, Tristan saw his grandfather sitting in a chair at the end of the room, engrossed in the view outside.


    "Sir, please..." Alan gestured to Tristan to continue to enter the room.


    "Grandpa," Tristan greeted his grandfather, who was unaware of his presence.


    "Ah, Tristan. You¡¯ve come. Sit, sit..." Lewis glanced at Tristan. Then he asked Alan to leave the two of them. However, after Alan left, Lewis didn¡¯t immediately say anything. He just stared at Tristan with his firm expression, confusing Tristan.


    Tristan grew impatient because his grandpa didn¡¯t utter anything. He ran his finger through his hair before saying, "Grandpa, my wife is waiting upstairs. We can talk tonight if you still don¡¯t want to talk..." he suggested.


    He would go upstairs and accompany Bella rather than be here watching his grandfather stare at him as if he wanted to slap him with his gaze.


    "Brat, what would you do now? Your parents know I¡¯m here."


    Tristan was surprised to hear that. However, he didn¡¯t care because his parents didn¡¯t know he also came to this place. It would be troublesome if they found out because his father knew about his business trip to Singapore ¡ª his father would be suspicious about something.


    "So?"


    "Your father also heard that you came back suddenly from Singapore, and now they plan to fly here. Because they were worried that something terrible had happened to me when they knew you flew in a rush to this place..." Lewis explained.


    "WHAT! Why are they coming here?" Tristan sounded annoyed hearing about that.


    This is why Tristan is reluctant to use this family villa. His parents would find out if they investigated his reasons for coming here. But because he didn¡¯t have time to buy new property near this place, he had no choice but to use this beach house.


    Before they flew here, he could only warn all the workers not to tell anyone about Bella and Dax, who had also come to this place.


    "That¡¯s why I called you," Lewis said, taking a deep breath before continuing, "You were too rash to fly back here. Now, they are thinking I¡¯m sick!"


    Tristan was speechless.


    "Have they talked to you?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes. I told them that I called you to come to this place. I also asked them not to come," Lewis stopped while taking a deep breath. He turned his gaze out the window before continuing his sentence. "However, you know your mother, right?"


    Tristan could only nod slowly. He knew his mother would still send someone to check on his grandpa.


    They were silent for a moment as if busy thinking about something.


    Not long after, Tristan was the first to break the silence.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m not worried about my mother and father. But I¡¯m worried about Bella. She will still be traumatized if she has to meet them now. I don¡¯t want my relationship with her, which is starting to get better, to get worse again..." Tristan expressed his concern.


    "I know. That¡¯s why I need to hear your plans for dealing with them. Especially your mother?" Lewis curiously gazed at Tristan.


    However, when Lewis Sinclair saw Tristan keep silent, he continued, "Brat, don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t have a plan!? Seriously!?"


    Tristan chuckled.


    "Oh, come on, Grandpa. Of course, I have my own plan. I¡¯ll meet my father and mother when we return to the capital. I will tell them about my relationship with Bella and Dax." Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He can¡¯t let his parents know about Bella and Dax from other people. He needs to meet with them as soon as possible and set boundaries.

 Chapter 192: I will Take Care Of Them

    Tristan can¡¯t let his parents know about Bella and Dax from other people. No one knows more clearly and in detail than himself. If he is the first to tell them, he could tell it in a way he knows they would not overreact.


    Moreover, if he¡¯s the one to tell them first, he could easily set boundaries to protect Bella and Dax. Even though they know about Dax, he will not allow them to meet him without Bella¡¯s explicit permission, and he can guess that Bella will never allow that to happen.


    Lewis feels relief when he hears that. Since he knew about Dax, he wanted to tell his son to stop them from trying to arrange a new marriage for Tristan. Still, he remembered Tristan had warned him not to say anything to anyone, including his parents.


    Because he was afraid his grandson would be angry, Lewis had no choice but to keep his mouth shut until today.


    "Good! It would be better if they found out from you directly than from someone else." Lewis smiled at Tristan, feeling satisfied with his plan. "Don¡¯t worry about anything. I will stand behind you if they trouble you."


    "I know... And thank you, Grandpa."


    However, a few seconds later, Lewis¡¯ smile slowly faded. His eyes narrowed, looking Tristan in the eyes.


    "Brat, this time, if you don¡¯t take care of Bella and make her suffer again, I will take everything from you¡ªyour last name, your wealth, everything. So, you better keep your promise to old Donovan and me to always look after Bella and Dax!"


    Tristan, "..."


    This was the second time Tristan had witnessed his Grandpa talking earnestly to him like this. The first time his grandfather scolded him was when his grandfather found out he was divorcing Bella. And, hearing his words now, he felt a slight chill.


    "Grandfather, believe me, you won¡¯t have the chance to do all that because this time, my marriage to Bella is not because you forced me... but because I love her with all my heart."


    Tristan¡¯s smile gradually appears before he continues, "I will take care of my wife until the end of my life, and so will our son, Dax. So, don¡¯t worry about things that will never happen, Grandpa."


    Lewis chuckled, hearing his confidence. "Alright, you can go now..."


    Tristan happily left the room, impatient to accompany Bella.


    ****


    On the second floor, in the main bedroom,


    Bella could only smile bitterly when she saw Noora and Geoffrey¡¯s work, arranging Tristan¡¯s clothes in the walk-in closet.


    Seeing her clothes side by side with Tristan¡¯s clothes somehow made the strange feeling in her heart emerge again. She could only smile as she returned to the bedroom.


    Bella had no plans other than to take a nap, but when her eyes saw the cell phone on the table, she decided to forget her badly needed nap.


    After grabbing her cell phone, she settles on the couch and starts to check whether she received something important.


    Her heart was pounding when she saw several missed calls from Stefan. She immediately contacted him. And as usual, Stefan immediately picked up the phone.


    "Sister, you finally called..." Stefan¡¯s worried tone could be heard from the other end.


    "You trace me?" Bella could guess Stefan¡¯s worry referring to her visiting the hospital.


    "Yes. I know you are sick now. How¡¯s your condition?"


    "Never better! I am just exhausted from work. Don¡¯t worry too much."


    "Glad to hear that, sis."


    "Thank you, Stefan. Oh, right... I hope you didn¡¯t call just because you worry about my condition." She chuckled when she heard him laugh. "Any good news?"


    Stefan suddenly focused again; he did have a lot of reports he wanted to tell her, especially about Laura Kiels.


    "Sis, I¡¯ve finished gathering evidence to turn the situation around. Do you want to strike back at that bitch Laura Kiels now?" He asked excitedly.


    "Perfect, Stefan!" Bella¡¯s eyes sparkled with joy. But later, her smile faded, and in a hurry, she said, "Wait, wait... let¡¯s not spread our counterattack. I need to ask my legal team to sue them all. I will make sure Laura Kiels¡¯ entire army is detained and let them tell the world who Laura really is."


    "Ha ha ha, that¡¯s a good idea, sis. Is there anything else you want me to do about Laura?"


    "How about someone who paid her debt? Did you find anything suspicious?"


    "No. She paid for everything using her bank account. I¡¯m not yet doing any deep research about that. Do you want me to investigate this further?" Stefan asked.


    Bella was silent, thinking about something.


    She doubted Laura Kiels¡¯s ability to pay all the compensation money, but she knew Stefan had many things to do; he was pretty busy.


    After a few more seconds, Bella finally responded, "Stefan, if you have time, just pay attention to her. If she does anything strange, report it to me immediately."


    "Sure, sis... No worries. I already put many traps in her gadget." Stefan laughs, thinking that Laura will never escape from him unless she doesn¡¯t use her gadget to communicate with others.


    "Sis, I have to do something now. Talk to you later..."


    However, before Stefan ended the phone call, Bella remembered something.


    "Stefan, wait a moment. How about my brother? Did you find anything interesting about him!?"


    Bella almost forgot about Henry, and her father plots to marry her to an old man. She must prepare something to make them stop their cunning plan against her.


    "Damn! Your brother is completely different from you, sister. He is so fucking terrible." Stefan can¡¯t help but curse when he remembers Henry Donovan¡¯s matter.


    After digging into an investigation into Henry Donovan, he can¡¯t believe that man is Bella¡¯s brother. He has many women out there to sleep with. He is also drug-addicted.


    "What do you mean, Stefan?" Bella wanted to know what made Stefan curse when he talked about her brother.


    Stefan immediately tells her a few things that Henry did in the past.


    After a few more minutes, Bella chuckled. She already knows how much worse her brother was.


    Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 193: Tristan Knows About Her Father’s Shameless Plan

    "What do you want me to do to your brother?" Stefan asked after he hadn¡¯t heard her say anything.


    Bella took a deep breath while pinching her forehead. She suddenly felt dizzy after thinking about the new scheme her family would do to her¡ªmarrying her to an older man, the same age as her own father. Gosh!


    She never understood why her father was obsessed with arranging a marriage for her. Even though she is no longer young, her father is still busy intervening in her life.


    How shameless!


    "Don¡¯t do anything to my brother. But just watch him for me. You know what to do, right? If he has bad intentions towards me, you must report it to me, Stefan." She will deal with Henry later because she focuses on actions against Laura Kiels.


    "Sis, I read something terrible in your big bro¡¯s chat log," Stefan¡¯s worried tone no longer surprised Bella. She could guess what he would say but kept silent, hearing him continue to speak.


    "Your jerk big bro and father want to do something to hurt you; their plot is terrible to you, sis. I suggest you ask Jack to send an additional guard to protect you¡­and Dax..."


    Bella was slightly stunned when she heard that. Did they make another scheme against her and the people she cares about? She feels curious.


    "What is it? Can you tell me what their plan is?"


    "They set you up..." said Stefan in an annoyed tone. He had never met a parent who behaved so vilely towards his daughter.


    "Oh, I know that. Anything else?"


    "Yes. Well, your big bro suggests to your father that if you refuse to follow their arrangement, your bro will ask his friend to kidnap you. And, sis, you will not believe who your father wanted you to marry¡­" Stefan felt unable to continue his sentence and felt sorry for her.


    "Thanks for the information, Stefan... But I already know about the person," Bella responds. She took a deep breath to fill her stuffy heart with as much fresh air as possible before continuing her words.


    "You know what? My father is another shameless man that I have ever encountered in my life." Bella said. How dare her father arrange a marriage with an older man?


    Bella felt her heartache again, remembering how her father had treated her all this time. Sometimes, she thought that Lucas Donovan was not her birth father; she was an adopted child.


    "I know? How could a father have such shameless plans for his daughter? If I¡¯m there, I will come to him and confront him..." Stefan sounded annoyed. Even though Bella wasn¡¯t his biological sister, he felt sorry for Bella having a father like that.


    "Ha ha ha¡­ Thank you, Stefan, for your nice words. But you don¡¯t need to feel sorry for me because I¡¯m used to it¡­"


    Bella laughed and tried to cheer herself up even though she felt like a dagger piercing her heart¡ªher heart ached. Her father, who was supposed to love her, instead became the first person to hurt and betray her.


    "Okay, Sis, I have to go now. I have sent all my report files to your email. You should check all the files because I found many interesting things in my investigation of Laura Kiels and Henry Donovan."


    "Thanks, Stefan, for your hard work."


    After ending her call with Steffan, Bella immediately checked her email to find out what crimes her brother had committed.


    Bella was curious to know about Henry because she was sure that by now, Henry would have arrived at their house to report to their father about what had happened the previous day at the restaurant.


    However, before Bella could read the files, Tristan¡¯s voice stopped her.


    "What¡¯s your father doing to you this time?" Tristan asked calmly, but Bella, who heard that, felt like anger carried in his tone.


    Bella immediately turned her gaze towards the door. She saw him walking towards her after he closed the door behind him.


    She didn¡¯t say anything immediately. Her eyes followed Tristan until he was sitting next to her, and her heart began to race as their arms touched as he moved.


    After her heart calmed down, Bella finally asked him instead of answering his question, "Since when did you hear my conversation?"


    Tristan slowly took a deep breath before taking her delicate hands.


    He lowered his eyes to see their hands on his lap and tried to guess what her family wanted to do to her. He knew how badly Bella¡¯s father treated his own daughter.


    Tristan regretted that he only found out everything when Bella was gone. However, now, he swore to himself that he would make things right for Bella.


    After Tristan gently squeezed Bella¡¯s hand to give her courage, he slowly raised his head again to look her in the eye.


    "Your brother is planning to do something evil to you? Please give me a chance to help you, Bella..." he said while smiling sincerely at her.


    ¡¯So he heard about my family matter!¡¯


    Bella felt that she no longer needed to hide this matter from Tristan.


    She should tell him. But she can¡¯t accept his help yet because she doesn¡¯t want her parents to know about her relationship with Tristan. They will probably use the Sinclair Group name again.


    Certainly not!


    Bella didn¡¯t want that to happen again when her father treated her as just an object of their business.


    She turned her gaze elsewhere as she couldn¡¯t bear to look Tristan in the eye when telling him about this matter.


    "Tristan, you won¡¯t believe what my parents want to do to me. My father is trying to arrange a new marriage for me with his friend, who is the same age as him." Bella faintly said, feeling ashamed to talk about this to Tristan.


    "WHAT!? Repeat it?"


    Bella turned to look at him. When she saw his face turn red, like all the blood was now rushing under his skin, she could only shake her head slowly with a wry smile. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You heard that, Tristan. I won¡¯t repeat it again... My shameless father even wants to force me to follow this new marriage agreement...with his friend. An old guy of the same age as him!"

 Chapter 194: I Will Respect You And Wait

    Grinding his teeth in frustration, Tristan tried hard not to show anger, but his cold tone betrayed him. "How could your father do that? Bella, I will meet your father to let him know about our relationship."


    This was the only way to stop Bella¡¯s father from arranging a match for her. Like his parents, he will also prevent them from doing such actions.


    "No, please don¡¯t do that, Tristan! My father will be even happier if you come to see him. He will use your name again to advance his business. He will wrongly use your company¡¯s name." She said helplessly.


    Bella could imagine what her father and uncle would do if they found out about her status, still Tristan Sinclair¡¯s legal wife.


    Indeed, they would shamelessly boast to their business partners, as they did in the past; they are pressuring others because Sinclair Group has a billion-dollar project with the Donovan Group in East City.


    She would never let that happen again, so she had thought of another solution to deal with them.


    "Bella, I won¡¯t hide our relationship anymore like before. This time, I will proudly announce that you are my wife. And, when your father finds out about us, he will definitely step back. He will not dare to do such a shameless thing again..."


    Bella silently took a deep breath and felt deja vu.


    She wanted their relationship announced in the past, but an under-the-table agreement between their parents made that impossible. But now, when she tried to keep a low profile, this man wanted to reveal their relationship.


    Gosh!


    Bella immediately warns Tristan about her concerns¡ªhow her parents might take advantage of him¡ªand she doesn¡¯t want past events to happen again.


    "What you said is true. But, Bella, you don¡¯t have to worry about them using me. I could handle your parents..." Tristan said. He couldn¡¯t hide how happy he was to know how worried Bella was about him.


    "But now, now. I will take care of my family matters myself."


    "Alright, dear..." Tristan said as he raised his hand to touch her cheek gently, but his expression suddenly turned worried when he felt her body hot, a little warmer than usual.


    "Is your fever returning?" Tristan asked worriedly, placing his hand on her forehead to feel her temperature.


    "Huh!? Really?" Bella was surprised. She felt fine, but seeing Tristan¡¯s worried expression, she also placed her hand on her forehead to check her temperature.


    When she felt her skin a little warm, Bella immediately stood up and looked for her bag.


    "I need to recheck my body temperature," she said calmly, not wanting to make Tristan worry. However, the man already panicked.


    "I will call my personal doctor to fly here..."


    Bella¡¯s steps stopped. She turned to Tristan and couldn¡¯t help but smile when she saw he was about to make a call.


    "Tristan, there¡¯s no need. I¡¯m fine. Trust me. I still have the medicine the doctor gave me..." Bella tried to stop him from doing this unreasonable act. How could he easily ask his doctor to fly from the capital to Nova City just to check her fever?


    "Are you sure you are okay?" Tristan stood up from his seat and approached her.


    "Yes." Bella took a thermometer out of her bag. After she checked her temperature, she found it was a little high but not dangerous. Then, she handed the thermometer to Tristan to see it.


    "Thirty-seven point five degrees Celsius?" He said worriedly.


    "It¡¯s not that bad, Tristan..." Bella answered calmly while taking fever-reducing medicine.


    "Are you sure, Bella?"


    "Mmm, it seems... my body hasn¡¯t fully rested yet, so my fever is still there. I just need to take the pills and sleep, and I¡¯ll be fine. Stop worrying."


    "But¡ª"


    "If you are concerned like this and Dax sees you, he might be sad and worried to know his mother is sick..." Bella was amused when she saw Tristan suddently nod to agree with her.


    "Okay. Now, you should rest!" he says while taking her to bed. "I¡¯ll wake you up at lunch. You still have an hour to sleep."


    Bella accepted his suggestion. She knew her current condition was too stressful and tiring. She really needed a lot of rest. However, when she lay in bed and saw Tristan about to sleep next to her, something came back to her mind¡ªher worries about them sharing the same bed.


    "Tristan, I think it¡¯s too early for us to sleep in the same bed..." Bella stopped her words when she saw Tristan¡¯s expression stiffen as he sat back on the edge of the bed, looking at her confused. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What do you mean?"


    "I mean," Bella swallowed slowly after feeling her throat suddenly dry. Her hands under the blanket clenched into fists before continuing her words, "I need time to be able to sleep in the same bed with you again."


    "Bella, we are husband and wife¡ª"


    "I know," Bella interrupted his words. "But we¡¯ve been apart for more than five years. Tristan, I need time to adjust and prepare myself again. It feels weird to me, sleeping with you now..."


    Tristan was stunned to hear her request but tried to understand it. He didn¡¯t say any words; he just looked into her eyes while trying to think of something.


    After a few moments of silence, Tristan finally smiled at her before responding, "Okay. I won¡¯t force you, Bella. I¡¯ll respect your request and wait until you are ready..."


    "Thank you." Bella feels relieved.


    "But, Bella, please don¡¯t ask me to sleep in another room."


    Bella¡¯s hands clenched tighter. She plans to ask that, too, but looking at his pleading gaze softens her heart.


    "It¡¯s okay if I have to sleep on the floor or the sofa," Tristan continued, making Bella feel even more guilty.


    She opened her mouth to say something, but the sentence she wanted to say seemed to be stuck on the tip of her tongue.


    Seeing Bella looking worried, Tristan leaned closer and said, "If you¡¯re so worried about me sleeping on the floor, let me sleep next to you?"


    Bella glared at him.


    "Ha Ha Ha..." Tristan burst out laughing when he saw her angry reaction. "I¡¯ll sleep on the couch if that makes you feel better."


    She didn¡¯t say anything, but her expression was still the same.


    "But Bella... Please don¡¯t let me sleep on the sofa for too long," said Tristan pleadingly while gently stroking her blushing cheek.


    Bella pulled the blanket up and covered almost her entire face, stopping Tristan to touch her cheek. He chuckled at her.


    "I need to sleep now..." Bella quickly turned her back to him, worried she would change her mind about letting him sleep in bed.


    Ultimately, Bella and Tristan finally agree to start a new chapter in their lives.


    ...


    Some people may think that choosing Tristan again was a foolish decision. Still, she has carefully considered it for the sake of her future and her son, Dax.


    She gave Tristan a second chance because, in the past months, she had seen his sincerity and knew what had happened in the past were all just misunderstandings.


    Now, Bella just wants to be happy with Dax and Tristan.


    She will not allow other people to ruin her happiness this time, even when her parents or in-laws come in between; she will be prepared this time. Knowing Tristan and their Grandfather wouldn¡¯t let the past repeat itself either made her feel comfortable starting over with him.


    ****


    Hi, this is the end of Volume 2: RETURNS.


    I will upload Volume 3 the next day: New Beginning.


    ...


    Author Notes:


    I get that many of you disagree with Bella¡¯s choice to be back with Tristan and want her to be with Sean instead. If you read again from the beginning, you will understand why Bella made such a choice. She had never stopped loving Tristan and could never love Sean the way she loves Tristan.


    Also, she only wants to be happy, and she¡¯s fully aware that if she¡¯s forcing herself to love Sean and into the Spencer family, she will end up hurting herself and everyone else. But, of course, Sean¡¯s story will continue; he¡¯ll be back soon to add the spice. Please, Sean fans, don¡¯t hate me ^___^


    I hope you continue to follow the adorable story of Bella, Tristan, and Dax. For the third volume, we will focus on how Bella and Tristan deal with their family and public opinion and how Bella continues to pursue her career even after becoming a wife again.


    Thank you very much to all of you who are still with me until this chapter. I am genuinely grateful to all of you who have supported me. And for those of you who were disappointed with the storyline, I apologize. I hope you still support me. If not, I hope we meet in my other story. Thank you all.

 Chapter 195: The First Time She Saw Him Wake Up in The Morning

    Next morning.


    When Bella woke up in the morning, she faintly heard a sound from the sofa.


    Worried that someone would enter her room without permission, Bella hurriedly sat on the bed and looked towards the sofa. She was surprised to see Tristan still sleeping there.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could I forget this man sharing the same room with me?¡¯ Bella shook her head as she brushed her hair with her finger and created a simple bun.


    Bella still couldn¡¯t believe the two of them were now sharing the same room. And she was amused to make a powerful and wealthy businessman in this country, Tristan Sinclair, sleep on the sofa.


    She would become a public enemy if people found out, especially all the women who adored him.


    Bella could only laugh inwardly when she imagined all the women would curse her.


    After laughing to herself and feeling much better, she pushed aside the blanket and got out of bed to approach him.


    She was surprised that there was no pillow to support Tristan¡¯s head because now he was curled up while hugging his pillow.


    Seeing his sleeping position made Bella feel sorry because the three-seater sofa was insufficient for a 6.1-sized man to sleep comfortably on.


    After looking at his handsome, calm face for a few seconds, Bella checked the clock beside the bed; it was still early, not even six o¡¯clock.


    She bent down slightly and held Tristan¡¯s shoulders, shaking him gently to wake him up.


    "Tristan, sorry to wake you. You can move to bed. Sleeping here isn¡¯t comfortable for you," she whispered. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella saw Tristan¡¯s eyes tremble and his eyelashes flutter, she immediately straightened her back to put some distance between them. Still, before she could do so, Tristan¡¯s hand had already grabbed her, stopping her from taking a few steps back.


    Bella was surprised. Her body was pulled towards Tristan again. She almost fell on top of his body if she didn¡¯t grab the edge of the couch with her other hand.


    "What are you doing, Tristan Sinclair?" Bella snapped, glaring at him. She was now half kneeling on the floor, her face so close to him. When she saw him smile, she tried to withdraw her hand, but his thighs gripped her, making her unable to stand.


    "Morning, dear..." Tristan¡¯s hoarse voice greeted her instead of answering her question. His smile grew wider when he saw Bella¡¯s annoyance.


    "You¡ª"


    Tristan continued his words while feasting his eyes on her beauty, "You know, Bella? I feel like God immediately answered my prayer; I can see your cute expression in the morning as soon as I wake up..."


    Bella held herself back from laughing when she heard his cheesy lines this early morning. She looked elsewhere, avoiding eye contact with him.


    Seeing Tristan¡¯s handsome appearance in the morning made her heart beat fast, and she could feel her cheeks now feeling warm. After so many years together, they lived in the same house, but only today could she see this man awake in the morning.


    "Tristan, you can sleep on the bed," she said without looking at him.


    Tristan was shocked to hear her words; Bella asked him to sleep in the bed.


    Countless questions now filled his mind as he looked at her. Why did she suddenly change her mind? Last night, she rejected the idea of ??them sharing the same bed.


    Afraid he had misheard, Tristan asked, "B-Bella, are you serious? We can sleep in the same bed!?"


    Bella was a little confused hearing Tristan¡¯s reaction. She turned to face him, wanting to clarify something, but her words stopped when she saw him sitting on the sofa and helped her up.


    "Are you serious? I can sleep in bed." He asks again after Bella sits next to him.


    "Hmm, you can sleep there. You still have an hour to sleep before breakfast," Bella answered with a smile, realizing the light in his eyes was getting brighter.


    Tristan immediately stood up and walked to the bed while carrying his pillow. A smile slowly appeared when he realized Bella was finally willing to sleep with him.


    Bella felt unreal seeing Tristan walking towards the bed carrying a pillow. His hair looked messy, and he was only wearing a T-shirt.


    How could the almighty Tristan Sinclair look like this? She felt amused watching this side of him.


    In the past, when Bella woke up in the morning, she never found Tristan in her bed because he had already returned to his bedroom. When they met, she only saw him wearing a suit.


    "What are you waiting for, Bella? Come sleep with me¡­"


    Bella was stunned hearing his words. She looked at him, lying on the bed with his head glancing in her direction.


    ¡¯Humph! Why did he think I would sleep with him?¡¯ Bella wondered as she narrowed her eyes at him. A few seconds later, something crossed her mind, and a faint smile slowly appeared as she realized Tristan was wrongly hearing her words.


    Geez!


    "Tristan, I just asked you to move to bed but didn¡¯t say I would sleep with you..."


    Tristan was stunned as he sat on the edge of the bed and looked at Bella. Feeling embarrassed, he said, "It¡¯s still early. You¡¯d better sleep here, and I¡¯ll return to the sofa."


    "No need. I¡¯m getting enough sleep. I¡¯ll just read something on my laptop," she said, then walked towards the study table. However, before she could reach the table, Tristan stopped her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. But this time, you have to listen to me. You can work later, but not now. Last night, we spent hours talking, and knowing you only got a little sleep worries me." Tristan held her hand and led her to bed.


    "I¡¯m fine now."


    "I remember you spent hours meeting with Leo and Sam yesterday. Did something happen at your company? Do you need my help handling the issue with Laura Kiels? That woman is starting to make me angry!" Tristan said as he helped her lay on the bed.


    Hearing his earnest offer, Bella immediately said, "No thanks..."


    She didn¡¯t want Tristan involved in her office matter.

 Chapter 196: Worry About His Mommy (1)

    Hearing his earnest offer, Bella immediately said, "No thanks..." She didn¡¯t want Tristan involved in her office matter.


    "Bella, are you sure?" Tristan asked. He wanted to help her. "I can see what happened between your company and that woman on the internet. And the more I read the news, the angrier I become." He paused to take a deep breath before continuing. "You know someone paid those people to ruin your company, right?"


    Bella nods before responding, "Thank you for your concern, Tristan. But my team will take care of everything." She tries to avoid further conversation about her office matter.


    Yesterday, Bella finished all her business with Celebes Energy. What is pending now is to take care of corrupt officials messing with the company. She was in no rush to take care of them because Stefan, her hacker, had not yet provided a detailed report.


    She is also preparing to take action against Laura Kiels. They have obtained the identities of many perpetrators who damaged Stellar Entertainment¡¯s name on the internet, and several journalists created fake news about Stellar Entertainment.


    They will file a lawsuit today. After that, they will finally make an official statement.


    Bella has asked Stefan to slowly release on the internet Laura Kiels¡¯ evil actions, starting with cases of drunk driving and her hobbies to the use of illegal drugs. Besides that, her rude personality towards her staff and many more. News about her will soon become a trending topic in this country.


    Because there was no more work here, Bella asked Leo and Sam to return to the capital.


    ...


    "Okay, but if you need my help, please talk to me, Bella. Please let me know. I mean it..." Tristan stated.


    "Sure, Tristan..." Bella responds to him with a smile. She feels grateful to hear someone standing behind her to help.


    After Tristan saw her relax and slowly close her eyes, he lay down next to her, causing Bella to open her eyes again and squint at him as if to tell him, "Don¡¯t break your promise, Mr. Tristan Sinclair."


    Tristan chuckled when he saw her adorable-annoyed expression. He ignored her stern warning and helped her adjust her blanket. Then, he relaxed his back, feeling satisfied that Bella didn¡¯t kick him off the bed.


    After a few minutes, Tristan could still feel Bella hadn¡¯t slept, and she seemed alert. A faint smile slowly appeared on the corners of his lips.


    "Trust me, Bella. I won¡¯t do anything to you. You can rest assured..." He said without looking at her. He only looked at the ceiling. Then, he slowly closed his eyes and pretended to sleep.


    Bella smiled silently when she saw Tristan finally fall asleep again. She knew he couldn¡¯t sleep well last night because she saw him sleeping on the sofa in an uncomfortable position.


    She yawned. Slowly, she feels sleepy again. She closed her eyes and tried to sleep more.


    After thirty minutes, Tristan glanced at Bella.


    Tristan smiled when he saw her sleeping with her face facing him. Seeing how calm and beautiful her face looked while sleeping was enough to make his hand slowly rise to touch her flushed cheek.


    However, when Tristan was about to touch Bella¡¯s cheek, a faint knock on the door stopped him.


    He glanced at the door with a frown on his face, worried that Bella would hear the knock.


    Feeling displeased that someone dared to wake them up so early in the morning, he immediately stood up from the bed, wanting to know who the person was. He marched to the door with a stern expression.


    However, as the door opened, Tristan¡¯s expression gradually changed to joy when he saw Dax smile at him, "Good morning, Dad..."


    Tristan lowered his head to meet his son¡¯s gaze and smiled, looking at him still in his pajamas.


    "Good morning, buddy. Why do you wake up so early? You didn¡¯t have a workout today, right?"


    Tristan had heard from Geoffrey these two days that Dax had no training to let him rest before they returned to the capital on Sunday.


    "Yes, Dad. But I¡¯m hungry..." Dax said while trying to peek into the room, looking for his mother.


    It¡¯s still early for breakfast. They usually prepare breakfast at seven in the morning. Now it is thirty minutes earlier than seven.


    "Do you want to go down now? We can ask the chef to prepare your breakfast earlier..." Tristan offered. When he saw Dax¡¯s curious gaze to look inside and ignored his words, he smiled.


    "Dad, why is mom still sleeping? I want to see her..." Dax asked worriedly when he saw his mother still asleep under the blanket.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer. He carried Dax to their room and whispered, "Mom exhausted, so I let her sleep a little longer before we go down for breakfast."


    He places Dax sitting on the edge of the bed.


    Dax turned to see his mother. After a while, he looked at his father with his usual deadpan expression.


    Meanwhile, Bella faintly heard Dax¡¯s voice. She slowly opened her eyes and smiled, looking at her son in their room. Just before she wanted to call Dax, she heard their talk. She thought better of it, curious to listen to what they discussed.


    "Dad, why do you make my mother tired all night?" Dax¡¯s voice sounded displeased with his father.


    Tristan silently gulped, hearing his sudden question. Instantly, he could feel his blood running cold.


    ¡¯Is he thinking what I¡¯m thinking...¡¯ Tristan wondered.


    How could this four-year-old kid know such a thing?


    Tristan cleared his throat as he looked into his son¡¯s eyes, "Dax, what were you thinking? Why do you think I made your mother tired?" he asked carefully.


    "You chat with her a lot all night, right? That¡¯s why my Mommy is still sleeping now..." Dax took a deep breath and crossed his arms over his chest, waiting for his father to answer.


    Tristan is relieved when he hears Dax¡¯s words.


    He was frightened that his four-year-old son would think he was doing intimate work that exhausted his mother.


    "I¡¯m sorry, buddy. Daddy will not do that again," Tristan said, gently patting his back.


    Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 197: Worry About His Mommy (2)

    There was silence for a moment before Dax continued what was on his mind.


    "Dad, I heard from Uncle Sam that my mommy was exhausted from work. That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t go to her last meeting yesterday. Is that true?" His round eyes blink several times as he looks at Tristan.


    Tristan was stunned to hear that Dax knew about his mother¡¯s condition.


    "Your mother is indeed tired, but don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s fine now. She just needs enough good sleep."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t tell Dax that Bella was sick yesterday and had to visit the hospital. He didn¡¯t want Dax to worry too much.


    However, worry still flashed through Dax¡¯s gaze before he said, "Dad, my mom never worked when we were in Sweden. She spent all her time at home with me. But, when she got here, she went to her office almost every day and came home before evening..."


    Another long and deep sigh echoed in the room.


    "I feel sorry for Mommy. She had to work very hard since returning to this country. I wish she could stay home with me more." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not only does Dax feel worried about Bella¡¯s condition, but Tristan does too. Last night, when they talked, he asked her to stop working and enjoy her day at home with their son. But Bella refused. She said she wanted to pursue her career. She didn¡¯t want to return to her past self and become a full-time housewife.


    And,


    Every time Bella brought memories of their past, Tristan didn¡¯t have a chance to refute her. He could only accept her decision.


    However, Tristan had a plan. He would meet Jack Foster and ask him to lessen Bella¡¯s responsibility in Quantum Capital. Only this would make Bella slow down.


    ...


    Bella secretly overhears their conversation. She was stunned to hear Dax express his concern.


    Without her realizing it, her eyes felt blurry. At this moment, she felt mixed emotions. She was sad because she had to work and leave her son at home. She also felt her heart warm because Dax was concerned about her condition. Her son is so adorable.


    Bella tries hard to calm her emotions and not cry. Afraid these two men will worry even more about her.


    "Okay, little buddy, let¡¯s go downstairs, let mommy sleep a little longer..." said Tristan as he stood up from the bed and stretched his hand to Dax. He responded to his father with a quick nod and took his hand.


    However, just before they left the bed, Bella¡¯s voice suddenly stopped them. "Dax, Tristan, please wait. Don¡¯t leave me alone..." she said as she got out of bed.


    Tristan and Dax¡¯s steps halted. In a hurry, they turned back and saw Bella smiling at them, then casually, she continued fixing the bed.


    "Mo-Mommy, you are awake?"


    Dax releases his hand from Tristan and runs after Bella.


    Bella smiled as she hugged him.


    After Bella released her embrace, she was stunned when she saw worry flash across his gaze.


    Knowing what he was worried about, Bella no longer asked any further. She lowered her head and spoke softly to him, "Baby, could you wait for me on the couch? I will clean up fast before we go down for breakfast."


    "Hmm..." Dax nodded and obediently walked to the seating area in the corner.


    Tristan, who sees Bella talking to Dax and sees her loving gaze on their son, feels even more in love with her. He can¡¯t help but follow her to the bathroom.


    Bella was stunned. She looked at Tristan entering the bathroom when she was about to brush her teeth.


    "What are you doing, Tristan?" Bella frowned, looking at him.


    However, Tristan didn¡¯t answer her. He quickly took his toothbrush. But before he brushed his teeth, he looked at her, saying, "I¡¯m sorry, we have to hurry, Bella. You might not hear, but Dax said he was starving..."


    Tristan immediately brushed his teeth, ignoring Bella¡¯s displeased look. Sharing a bathroom with her was the only way he could save time.


    Bella was rendered speechless hearing such an excuse. She didn¡¯t say anything again and also did the same, brushing her teeth and washing her face.


    ....


    When the three arrived on the first floor, Bella was surprised to see her grandfather and Lewis, who were already dressed neatly and looked like they were going somewhere.


    They were so busy chatting that they didn¡¯t realize they were coming down the stairs. When Bella wanted to approach them and ask, she saw Nick and Alan pushing suitcases towards the main door.


    Bella looked at Tristan standing beside her, "Where are they going?" she asked, confused.


    "Back to the capital."


    Bella was stunned. They were supposed to go home together on Sunday, but now they decided to go home early.


    "What? Why?"


    Tristan knows the reason. His grandfather deliberately returned to the capital early so his mother wouldn¡¯t send people to this beach house to check.


    But Tristan couldn¡¯t possibly say that to Bella. He just smiled at her.


    "We will ask them later. Let¡¯s have breakfast first..." Tristan reminds Bella about Dax.


    "Maybe they haven¡¯t had breakfast? Let¡¯s invite them to join us..."


    Before Tristan could answer, Geoffrey appeared from the dining room, "Master, Young Madam, the elders have had breakfast..."


    "Oh, alright..." Bella responds to Geoffrey. She sets aside her curiosity and doesn¡¯t ask anything else as she follows Tristan to the dining room.


    ****


    "Now tell me, why are you forcing me to return to the capital a day earlier?" Isaac narrowed his eyes at Lewis. He still didn¡¯t understand why his best friend rushed them to return.


    Isaac took a deep breath before saying, "My son and daughter-in-law think I¡¯m sick. That¡¯s why they want to come to check on my condition in this beach house..."


    Instantly, Isaac¡¯s face hardened upon hearing that. He felt displeased. "Why can¡¯t you handle them?" Isaac asked, annoyed.


    Lewis chuckled. He didn¡¯t bother answering Isaac; instead, he asked, "Can you handle your sons, too? They always bully my granddaughter-in-law."


    Hearing about his son, Isaac suddenly remembered the phone call he had received last night from Bella¡¯s father.

 Chapter 198: Family Matter

    Hearing about his son, Isaac suddenly remembered the phone call he had received last night from Bella¡¯s father.


    This made him curious because they rarely called him. Moreover, they said a significant family matter needed his help to resolve.


    Sigh!


    What a bunch of foolish, ignorant kids. They thought he was so ancient they could fool him easily.


    Isaac knew all his children inside and out and all too well. They were all too greedy for money and power. He knew exactly what they wanted him to resolve; it must be company matters, the Donovan Group.


    He was so exhausted thinking about keeping the Donovan Group growing that he stepped down from company management many years ago. And, because he didn¡¯t want his children to fight over his property, he divided one-third of his wealth among his children evenly even though he was still healthy and vigorous.


    The remaining two-thirds are a few company shares and properties he keeps for one person he most cares for and admires. When he dies, all those remaining will go to Bella and Dax. He will never give anything more to his children.


    However, even though Isaac wanted to ignore his children and the company matter, this question, "What matters make them dare to call me?" still lingers in his mind.


    ¡¯Should I return to East City?¡¯ Isaac feels tempted to return a few days to check.


    ...


    "Ha ha ha¡­ I knew that. You must be having a hard time caring for all your sons, right?"


    Lewis remained silent.


    "It¡¯s okay, my friend. We¡¯re older now. We don¡¯t need to interfere in their affairs. Let¡¯s just enjoy the rest of our lives," Lewis said when he saw Isaac quiet.


    Lewis Sinclair could guess what was distracting his best friend now because he felt the same way. He only has one son, William Sinclair, but unfortunately, his son loves his wife so much that he only obeys what his wife wants.


    Isaac didn¡¯t bother responding to Lewis¡¯s words. He was still drawn to what his son, Lucas, told him on the phone. The more he thought about it, the more curious he became about what exactly happened there.


    ...


    Before long,


    Bella and the others finally joined the elders. She sat across from them.


    She was curious and couldn¡¯t wait to ask, "Grandfather, why did you decide to return to the Capital today?" she saw them in return before continuing her words. "Didn¡¯t we already plan to get back together next Sunday?"


    Isaac answered before Lewis could say something.


    "My dear Bella, you and Tristan have just reunited. You need to spend more time with him, right? You are both still young, and you need more time alone..." Isaac clears his throat before continuing. "Well, you know what I mean, right?" he smiles when he sees his granddaughter¡¯s cheeks slowly redden.


    Bella wanted to remind her Grandpa that Dax was with them. But before she could say anything, her Grandpa continued his words.


    "Besides, sleeping in a new place is difficult for older people like us. We better return to the capital and rest in our house."


    Bella was rendered speechless.


    "Jeez! Grandpa... Is there a better reason than that?" Bella wanted to ask but held it in when she saw Lewis Sinclair wishing to say something.


    "Yes, yes... what Isaac said is true. We old people need to sleep in our beds." Lewis smiled at Bella and turned his gaze to Tristan.


    "You better take care of Bella and Dax," Lewis¡¯s voice turns firm. "And there¡¯s no need to think about work too much. You also need a holiday!"


    Tristan chuckled. He knew what his Grandpa was trying to say. He never took a vacation and worked almost daily, especially after Bella left. During that time, he buried himself in the office.


    "No worries, Grandpa. I will..."


    "Good. Good..." Lewis is happy to see his grandson finally find his happiness with Bella. But later, something crosses his mind. He narrowed his eyes on Tristan.


    "Are you both going to stay in Little Heaven?"


    Lewis wishes they would return to their old house near his residence. It would make it easier for him to visit Dax because he would only need a five-minute car ride, whereas driving to Little Heaven would take forty minutes. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, what Old Sinclair wanted failed when Tristan answered, "Yes, we will stay in Little Heaven. Security at the place is excellent. Besides, Grandpa Isaac¡¯s house is there, so Dax could meet his Great-grandpa and play with him every day..." Tristan said casually, but Lewis¡¯s expression instantly turned ugly when he heard that.


    Bella, who saw Lewis, immediately felt sorry. She turned to see Tristan as if she wanted to scold him through her gaze.


    Curious to see her annoyed gaze, Tristan drew closer and whispered, "Why does my pretty wife look angry?"


    Bella rolled her eyes.


    "Grandpa Lewis is also Dax¡¯s great-grandfather. Why did you say those words? He must be sad right now," She couldn¡¯t believe this man had forgotten his own flesh and blood grandfather.


    Suddenly, Tristan was stunned. He completely forgot about that. He clears his throat while turning to see his Grandpa.


    "Grandpa, you can stay at our house to visit Dax. I will ask Geoffrey to provide a room for you."


    Suddenly, the light in Lewis Sinclair¡¯s eyes beamed. He was happy to hear that¡ªthis was what he really wanted to hear.


    Several minutes passed, and they were still chatting and laughing before Isaac and Lewis finally left.


    ****


    While in the Donovan Group head office,


    Lucas sat opposite his older brother, Jacob Donovan, the current CEO of the Donovan Group.


    "Are you sure Father will return home?" Jacob asked.


    "Yes. I have just received a text from Nick. He informed me they would fly here tomorrow," Lucas explained.


    "Perfect!" Jacob Donovan slowly smiled. "Only if Father were here could we approach your good-for-nothing daughter."


    Lucas Donovan could only nod.


    "How about her office? Did you find where she works?" Lucas asked, curious to know.


    "I haven¡¯t found the details about her job there. But my people only said Bella visited the Quantum Capital building often, so I believe she works there."


    Lucas took a deep sigh. He looked at his older brother before saying, annoyed, "I never understand her. Why does she insist on working again? She only needs to marry my friend Bradley, and everything will be alright!"


    "Yeah, she is so stubborn and stupid!" Jacob sneered.

 Chapter 199: Tense Moment In The Kitchen

    After Isaac Donovan and Lewis Sinclair finally left the Beach House, Bella was busy in the kitchen preparing the snack box they would bring on their sailing trips.


    She decided to make a simple snack: a sandwich, some cakes, and fruit that her son liked.


    "Miss, let me prepare it for you. You can rest upstairs with your husband and Young Master¡­" Noora tried to help, but Bella firmly refused, asking Noora to stay still in the corner.


    "It¡¯s just a sandwich," Bella said with a chuckle when she saw Noora¡¯s face slightly pale. "Come on, Aunt Noora, anyone can make a sandwich...why do you look so worried?"


    "Miss, I just worry you might cut your delicate finger..." She wanted to say that but held it when Bella ignored her.


    Noora felt very nervous because Bella rarely entered the kitchen. She even forgot the last time she saw Bella using a kitchen knife.


    Standing in the corner, his eyes never left Bella. Noora was curious why Bella, out of nowhere, offered to make snacks for their fishing trip that afternoon.


    Noora wanted to ask Bella, but she held back, worried that she might distract her, so she saved the question for later.


    Too immersed in looking at Bella, Noora didn¡¯t even realize Geoffrey was joining her in the corner.


    "Did young madam know how to make sandwiches?" Geoffrey asked while looking at Bella.


    Noora finally turns her gaze away from Bella to see Geoffrey. She was surprised that this man suddenly appeared beside her without her realizing.


    ¡¯Why did this man seem to have ninja skills?¡¯ Noora silently smiles with her own imagination before responding to him.


    "You should change your question, Geoffrey."


    Geoffrey frowned upon hearing Noora¡¯s words. After a few seconds, he finally found another question.


    "Did young madam ever make sandwiches before?"


    Noora was impressed hearing how fast Geoffrey understood her ambiguous words. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She didn¡¯t answer him immediately but turned her worried gaze at Bella again. She saw Bella cutting a few vegetables and smoked beef for the sandwich filling.


    Looking at how stiff Bella holds the knife makes her heart tighten. The thrill she feels now is like the feelings she experienced before she rode the roller coaster.


    Noora prays inwardly, hoping Bella doesn¡¯t cut her finger or a particular man upstairs will scold her.


    "She did or not?" Geoffrey feels even more worried looking at Noora, who looks so tense.


    "Geoffrey, let me ask you. If my young Miss ever makes a sandwich, why does she now watch YouTube?"


    Geoffrey helplessly took a deep sigh. He was speechless with Noora; she answered him with many words and expressions for a simple answer like YES or NO.


    However, when Geoffrey heard her last words, he started to worry again.


    "Heaven! S-She never made it before? Why does she want to make it when we have a chef who could prepare it for her."


    "Maybe my young miss wanted to impress your master..." Noora raised her hand to close her mouth, holding back her laughter.


    "Oh, you¡¯re right." Geoffrey also laughs. He feels happy for his master. "But, Noora, why am I worried she will hurt herself?"


    "My young Miss will be alright. But what worries me the most is the taste. Geoffrey, you better ask chefs to prepare a backup snack box," Noora said. She worries Master Tristan and Dax will be hungry later in the middle of the sea.


    "Yes, yes, you are right. Okay, I will go to the back kitchen¡­but please make sure young madam does not hurt herself, or master Tristan will kill us."


    Noora didn¡¯t utter anything. She just raised her hand to give Geoffrey her okay sign. She understood.


    After Geoffrey leaves, Noora focuses again on Bella.


    A few moments later, she walks towards Bella and sits on the chair on the kitchen island. She still didn¡¯t bother her but silently watched her.


    Before long, Bella was finally aware of Noora. She smiled through her eyes at Noora.


    "Aunty, you know what? I¡¯m done making sandwiches without hurting myself. You should congratulate me." Bella is so excited. Finally, she could make something for Tristan and Dax, something she had always dreamed of.


    She showed Noora the lunch box container she had been preparing since morning.


    There were three medium food containers, a box filled with a sandwich, and the other two were fruits and cake.


    When Noora saw inside the food container, she gasped in surprise. Inside, she saw ten-row sandwiches beautifully arranged. The fresh bread was filled with slices of smoked beef, creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes.


    Seeing the sandwich made Noora feel hungry again.


    ¡¯How could she create such a masterpiece?¡¯ Noora was lost beyond words. She had never made a sandwich as beautiful as this before when she made it for Dax¡¯s snack box.


    "Looking good, Miss. Looks like you have talent in the kitchen." Noora sincerely praises her.


    "Well, how could I know if I didn¡¯t have a chance to enter the kitchen!?" Bella helplessly said before continuing to pack everything she would bring later.


    Noora smiled. She stood from her seat, wanting to help, but her step halted when Bella narrowed her eyes. Why is she angry again?


    "And you know why I never got a chance like that, right?" Bella looked at Noora as if she wanted to tell her she was the culprit.


    "Ha ha ha, young Miss. I¡¯m sorry. I feel worried whenever you enter the kitchen," Noora grins.


    Bella shook her head while smiling bitterly.


    "Ugh, well, Young Miss... You better go rest upstairs. Or your husband will scold me for letting you work here too long..." Noora tries to divert the conversation.


    Bella didn¡¯t refute Noora. It¡¯s true. She spends almost her entire morning in the kitchen while Tristan plays with Dax upstairs.


    ...


    When Bella finally left the kitchen, Noora turned to the kitchen and wanted to clean up; however, she was shocked beyond words to see how the dry kitchen had now turned into a mess.


    Almost all the kitchen utensils were now on the kitchen countertop, and all kinds of mess were spread out before her eyes.


    "Gosh, she only makes sandwiches but turns this beautiful kitchen into chaos¡­" Noora chuckled and started to clean up.

 Chapter 200: Let Me Sleep In Your Bed

    That afternoon, after lunch, they finally set sail.


    The sky was clear. Only a few clouds could be seen as far as Bella¡¯s eyes could see. The sea was calm, and the wind was gentle as their yacht cruised toward the fishing spot.


    Bella was alone, sitting on the outdoor couch on the main deck, enjoying the view behind her sunglasses.


    Not long after, Bella¡¯s cell phone vibrated.


    She was stunned that she could still receive a signal in this place. She immediately checked her cell phone and was surprised that Leo had texted her.


    [Leo: ] Check the trending news!


    Since morning, Bella had been busy in the kitchen and didn¡¯t have much time to see what was happening on the internet.


    "They already held a press conference?" Bella muttered softly while checking the trending news on entertainment sites.


    The title above caught Bella¡¯s attention.


    "Stellar Entertainment: We Will Meet Our Enemy At The Court!"


    The article¡¯s content reports the results of a press conference with the public relations director of Stellar Entertainment, Who announced the identity of their new CEO.


    The PR Director also denied A-Netz¡¯s accusations directed at their company. He announced that he would take legal action against all parties who spread slander, including journalists, news sites, and television.


    The articles immediately became the number one trending topic. This made Bella happy because their press conference could attract many people to read them.


    However, when Bella read A-Netz¡¯s comments, she immediately felt bitter. Almost everyone who commented did not believe their intention to take legal action. They wrote even more negatively about the company and accused Stellar Entertainment of being an arrogant company.


    "What a bunch of idiots. Why do they never think before using their fingers? Gosh! You guys wait... when the police come to detain you, don¡¯t cry and beg for forgiveness because I will never grace you!"


    While Bella was still busy reading news on the internet about her company, she didn¡¯t notice Tristan walking towards her.


    After the yacht left, Tristan got busy on the bridge accompanying Dax. He didn¡¯t realize that Bella was no longer with them. When he looked for her, he saw her alone in this place.


    He stood behind her for a while, watching as she was busy reading something on her cell phone.


    "What are you reading? Why do you look so lost that you don¡¯t notice me?" Tristan asked while sitting right beside her. He casually placed his hand around her waist and pulled her closer, surprising her.


    Bella turned to see him after placing her cell phone in her bag. She looked around but did not see her son with him. "Where is Dax?"


    Tristan leaned closer and whispered close to her ear, "Dax is inside with Geoffrey watching on the bridge. What are you doing here alone?" he asked.


    She wasn¡¯t listening to his words because she was still shocked when she could feel his warm breath brushing her skin, sending shivers down her spine.


    When Tristan didn¡¯t hear her answer, he tilted his head to look at her face. He was surprised to see her face red.


    "Are you okay?" He asked in worry.


    Bella was grateful she wore sunglasses to hide her shy gaze while talking to him.


    "I can¡¯t stay inside for too long. When I¡¯m in a small room, I feel dizzy. I need to be in a spacious place to see the sea directly and feel the breeze to make me comfortable," Bella explained.


    This is one reason she doesn¡¯t like to ride a boat or anything related to the sea, but this time, she couldn¡¯t refuse Dax¡¯s request.


    "Oh, are you seasick?" Tristan was surprised to learn about this. He thought she would be okay because his yacht was quite big¡ªfour decks with plenty of space for entertainment. The waves wouldn¡¯t be felt as much because they are not in the open sea, but still, she feels seasick.


    "Well, only if I¡¯m in the room. I will be fine here..." Bella answered with a faint smile.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. If I had known, I would not have forced you to come with us," Tristan says, feeling bad.


    "Oh, it¡¯s fine." Bella turns to see the sea again, trying to distract him; she doesn¡¯t want to make him feel bad. "Is it still far from your fishing spot!?"


    Even though Bella didn¡¯t like sailing like this, she was also curious to see them. She had been looking forward to this since Dax often talked about his fishing experiences.


    Tristan looked ahead before he answered her, "Looks like we¡¯ll be there soon. If the boat stops, can you go inside? You can take a rest in the bedroom..."


    "Hmm, I guess... I could." Bella faintly smiled.


    "So, this is your first time on a small yacht like this?"


    "Yeah. I got seasick on a cruise ship. It happened many years ago when I was still studying in the US... it was the first and last time I went on a ship."


    Bella inwardly sighed, feeling embarrassed to tell Tristan about that.


    "Tristan, please don¡¯t tell anyone... Especially Dax."


    "Haha, I will not. I will keep this to myself. But you know what? I just wanted to take you on a cruise with Dax. But since you¡¯re seasick, maybe we need to find another place to go on holiday. That is if you don¡¯t mind." S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hmm, that sounds terrific. I will be looking forward to it." She shyly answers him.


    ...


    Not long after, the ship finally stopped. Later, Dax and the others appeared on the deck to join them.


    Bella no longer feels seasick when the ship stops and sees Dax running towards her.


    "Mommy, let¡¯s go downstairs. We can fish from the stern deck," he said enthusiastically.


    Bella nods at her son.


    "Alright, Buddy, let¡¯s go..." Tristan stood from his seat and took Dax¡¯s hand. Before he walks, he offers his other hand to Bella.


    Bella smiled at Tristan before taking his hand and following them to the lower deck. Holding his hand once again made her heart race; she tried to hide her redness, but Tristan, who was looking at her, smiled.


    He leaned closer to her and whispered, "What are you thinking? Why are you blushing again?"


    Bella, "..."


    "I hope you let me sleep on the bed tonight, Ms. Sinclair."


    She glared at him while trying to push away her sultry thoughts.

 Chapter 201: Their Closeness Distracts Her

    "Allow me to sleep with you tonight, Ms. Sinclair."


    Tristan¡¯s words still rang in Bella¡¯s mind. No matter how hard she tried to forget them, she couldn¡¯t.


    She exhaled secretly while looking at the end of the deck.


    Bella¡¯s eyes fixed on Tristan¡¯s back. He sat in the chair beside Dax, waiting for the fish to eat their bait. She could see them chat, and Tristan affectionately tapped Dax¡¯s shoulder, even trying to ruffle his hair.


    Seeing their close and intimate interaction made Bella¡¯s heart swell and warm. She can¡¯t hide how happy she was to witness Tristan¡¯s closeness with their son.


    Several times, she thanked herself for allowing Tristan and herself to start this journey together.


    "Young Miss, it seems you have fallen in love with Master Tristan again," whispered Noora, immediately making Bella turn to her side.


    "I¡¯m happy for you, Miss. I hope Master Tristan will love you with all his heart and will never hurt you..." Noora continued. She is happy to see what Bella wanted several years ago¡ªTristan loves her¡ªfinally come true.


    Seeing Noora¡¯s eyes radiating sincerity and happiness made Bella unable to control the warmth in her heart.


    Bella feels blessed because Tristan loves her as much, if not more. But since she decided to return to him again, a strange, unknown feeling has continued to dwell in her heart and mind¡ªimages of Sean in the last few days often appear unintentionally in her mind, even though she didn¡¯t think anything about him. And this has made her want to meet him immediately and talk. Bella felt she owed him that.


    It has been more than two weeks since they last communicated. Maybe a hundred texts were sent to his number, but all those text messages were never delivered, causing Bella to feel even more distant from him.


    At this moment, she can¡¯t do anything much about Sean; she can only pray to God to allow Sean to have time to read all her texts and call her back.


    ...


    Bella turns her gaze again to see Tristan before she responds to Noora.


    "Thanks, Aunty Noora. It¡¯s still hard for me to believe that Tristan Sinclair actually likes me, too. And, to know he loves me sincerely after I left his life several years ago feels unreal for me till now..." Bella said softly, then turned to look at Noora before she continued, "I¡¯m sure you already know what happened in the past, right?"


    Noora nods her head to answer Bella¡¯s question.


    "Yes, I know. Master Tristan talked to me a lot. And¡ª" Noora¡¯s voice trailed off as she remembered something. She pressed her lips, feeling bad because she had been hiding something from Bella all this time.


    A faint smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips, "Auntie, I know you helped him a lot when he started approaching me. You told him my schedule, right!?" she asked.


    Bella was already suspicious of Noora because, in the past few weeks, Tristan had known her own schedule in detail¡ªshe doubted Tristan would have the audacity to hack her cell phone. And only one person knows what she does in detail¡ªthat person is Noora.


    Noora¡¯s lips were pressed tightly, but her eyes couldn¡¯t lie, confirming what Bella said.


    "You don¡¯t need to be afraid, Aunty, because I won¡¯t be angry with you. Instead, I am very grateful to you. You can see Tristan¡¯s sincerity and help him pursue me back."


    "Miss..." Noora could not utter anything; she was surprised and grateful to hear Bella¡¯s words. All this time, she had thought Bella would be angry with her. "I¡¯m sorry for not telling you about Master Tristan..."


    "Auntie, It¡¯s fine. Well, I already think of you as my mother and older sister, right?" When Bella sees Noora nod, she continues. "When I asked you about Tristan¡¯s sincerity, and you firmly said he sincerely wants to return to me, I immediately trusted your judgment. Because you are the only person who understands me the most..."


    "Oh, please, Miss... stop flattering me. I feel my heart swell when you say those sweet words," Noora smiled, looking at Bella while wiping the tears from her cheeks. Her words touched her.


    "Hahaha, Why are you being such a crybaby?" Bella said while giving Aunt Noora a tissue. "I¡¯m not flattering you, but I¡¯m telling the truth..."


    "Young Miss, I hope, from now on, you will get the happiness you want..." Noora continued her sentence while trying to wipe away the traces of tears from her eyes and maintain her heart so she wouldn¡¯t cry.


    "Thank you, Auntie. But you¡¯d better stop crying; otherwise, other people who see you will think I¡¯m scolding you." Bella chuckled, again giving another tissue to Noora while trying to suppress her own sadness, looking at Noora¡¯s tears.


    Bella feels d¨¦j¨¤ vu thinking about the past when they left this country and arrived at the unfamiliar place in North Sweden. They often talked like this and cried until their eyes swelled, stopping when their tears ran out.


    At that time, Bella thought she was crying because of her pregnancy hormones that made her turn into a whiny woman, but it seemed not. That¡¯s because Noora always touched her heart every time they talked seriously.


    "I will... I will..." Noora said between her happy tears.


    "Is everything alright?" Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s deep, worried voice surprised Bella and Noora. They both looked in the direction of the voice and saw Tristan walking toward them.


    "No. We are fine. We are just talking about sad drama..." Bella immediately wiped the trace of tears from her cheeks. "Are you guys done?" She turned to see Dax, who was now fishing with Geoffrey.


    Before Tristan answered, Noora interrupted them as she excused herself to go inside to prepare their snack time.


    Tristan sat next to Bella. He said nothing but leaned closer to look into her eyes to ensure she was okay. When he saw that her eyes were slightly red, it worried him.


    He placed his hand on her cheek, very gently touching her soft skin before gently pulling her face closer to him. Their faces were only a few inches apart as he asked, "What are you two talking about? What made you cry like this?"


    Bella¡¯s heart began to beat fast, and she failed to answer his question. Their closeness distracts her. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She blinked at him a few times, trying to calm her heart.

 Chapter 202: Kissing

    Their closeness distracts her. She blinked at him a few times, trying to calm her heart.


    But, after a few seconds, she felt there was no point in hiding anything from him because she could feel; her expression couldn¡¯t hide her feelings now.


    After a deep breath, she said, "We cried talking about the time Aunt Noora and I left the country..." Bella smiled when she saw his expression turn dark; she continued, "Tristan, I know you don¡¯t want to hear it, right?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her, but he leaned closer and kissed her lips.


    Bella was stunned. Even though it was only a light kiss on the lips, she felt her heart almost explode as her heartbeat raced. Too shocked by his sudden kiss, she turned away from him while trying hard to calm her heart.


    She tried to pray to God, hoping Tristan would leave her alone or at least not talk about their kiss, or she would be even more shy.


    "Why are you shy?" Tristan asked calmly when he saw the color of her cheeks slowly turning red.


    Bella, "...."


    "Oh dear, Bella, this is not the first time we¡¯ve shared a kiss. You don¡¯t have to be shy¡­" Tristan said while placing his hand on her hand and squeezing it gently.


    She dared to look at Tristan before saying, "Can we not talk about it? And stop doing things like this in open spaces. I feel uncomfortable when there are many people around us."


    Bella saw several ship staff on standby somewhere. Although they pretended not to see them, she could feel their gazes.


    Tristan was amused hearing her words. He tightened his grip on her hand.


    "You are my wife, Bella. That¡¯s normal. They will not bother if I kiss you," Tristan smiled, gently caressing her cheek.


    When Tristan saw Bella¡¯s cherry lips pout slightly, he hurriedly continued, "Alright... Alright... I¡¯ll stop talking about it. And... I promise I won¡¯t kiss you when people are around us. Are you happy now?"


    Bella immediately nodded in response to his words. That¡¯s what she wanted to hear.


    However, Bella¡¯s calm was slowly disturbed again when she heard Tristan¡¯s next question.


    "So... Tonight, you will allow me to sleep with you in bed, right?"


    Bella, "..."


    "You¡ª" Bella¡¯s words slowly faded when she heard Dax call her. She turned her gaze to Dax and stood up, ignoring Tristan.


    "Mom, look... I finally caught a big fish. Uncle Geoffrey said I could keep this one," Dax said excitedly as he brought a bucket of fish and showed it to Bella.


    Bella was amazed to see a fish over thirty centimeters long in the bucket. The fish was still alive, and she did not dare touch it.


    "Good job, Dax. That fish is huge..." Bella smiled fondly at her son and was amused by his excitement. She listened to her son talk about how he caught that fish and Geoffrey helped him.


    Not only does Bella feel amused and proud with Dax, but Tristan does too.


    "Buddy! You did a great job. I am really proud of you..." Tristan sincerely praised him. They had previously caught several fish, but the size of the fish was too small for them to keep, so they released them back into the sea.


    "Daddy, let¡¯s catch a few more..." Dax said excitedly. Tristan couldn¡¯t refuse his son¡¯s request. He flashed an apologetic smile at Bella before returning to walk with Dax to their chair, but Bella stopped them. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let¡¯s take a break for a snack," said Bella, reminding Tristan and Dax about her prepared snack box.


    Later,


    The three of them immediately entered the lounge area. At the same time, Noora had just finished arranging their snacks on the table.


    Bella was curious to know what Dax and Tristan thought about the food she prepared, especially the sandwiches she made.


    A few moments later, seeing them devour their sandwiches quickly, without comment, made Bella worried.


    "Can you both say something? Does it taste delish?" she asks, looking at Tristan and Dax in return.


    "Mommy, this is the best sandwich I¡¯ve ever had! One is not enough for me..." Dax said after swallowing his last bite. Then, he took his second piece.


    Bella smiled happily when she heard Dax¡¯s comment. She looked at Tristan and asked, "How about you, Tristan?"


    Tristan smiled at Bella when he saw her nervousness in waiting for his answer.


    "Bella, to be honest, this is too delicious. But, I¡¯m afraid to praise you. I¡¯m afraid you will often enter the kitchen. I can¡¯t bear to see your delicate hands become rough from entering the kitchen too often."


    Bella, "...."


    "I¡¯m serious."


    "I¡¯m serious too," Tristan answered, then followed Dax to take his second piece.


    ****


    Meanwhile,


    In the Capital, in one of the luxury villas on the city border,


    Laura Kiels paced back and forth in the living room while listening to her manager report on what had happened on the internet.


    After a while, the manager asked, "So what will you do? Stellar Entertainment has made a statement that they strongly reject A-Netz¡¯s accusations. In fact, they are going to sue them all..."


    While pacing, Laura bit her thumb; she was nervous about hearing what was happening outside.


    Laura didn¡¯t want to take action yet, but hearing the mass media news that Stellar Entertainment would take legal action made her angry again. She can¡¯t stay still now; she must respond to what Arabella Donovan did to her.


    After a while, Laura stops. She glanced at her manager on the sofa.


    "I don¡¯t care what Stellar Entertainment will do to me. I want you to keep carrying out our plan. I will destroy Stellar Entertainment just like they destroyed my career." A sinister smile graces her face before continuing. "If they claim to have evidence, I also have a lot of evidence. The directors of Stellar had scandals with other talents in the company."


    "But, Laura, did you forget that all the directors have been fired from the company? You won¡¯t have a chance to win against them. Can we just stop here?"


    Laura didn¡¯t seem happy to hear her manager¡¯s reaction.

 Chapter 203: Guests Waiting For Tristan

    Laura didn¡¯t seem happy to hear her manager¡¯s reaction. She snarled, fixing her cold gaze on her manager, Robert.


    Seeing him wearing a tight shirt to cover his stocky body made her feel disgusted. "Can you do what I ask, Robert?" Laura snapped.


    Robert sighed silently, hearing Laura angry with him. At this moment, he felt like expressing his sarcasm, but he restrained himself; he could only curse her in his mind.


    When the scandal about her lack of work ethic and her firing from Stellar Entertainment spread on the internet, Robert didn¡¯t have high hopes for this woman.


    He loses respect for Laura when she stubbornly uses unconventional methods against Stellar Entertainment to repair her reputation. He constantly warned her to stop, but this woman was too stubborn to listen.


    If only the new man behind Laura hadn¡¯t had a reputation and money, maybe he would have left her long ago because he knew Laura¡¯s career was over in this country.


    No company is willing to work with Laura Kiels anymore, especially when S Jewelry, one of the companies owned by the Sinclair Group, terminates its working relationship with her. If they hire her, it means they are against the Sinclair group.


    Nevertheless, this woman found a way to escape from jail.


    And things are different now. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even though Laura¡¯s career in the entertainment world has reached a dead end, she is still wealthy. This was why Robert forced himself to work with her.


    "Sure, sure, you¡¯re the boss," Robert flashed a fake smile at Laura before continuing his words, "No worry, I¡¯ll do it. But please make sure your fiance will support you if something happens to us..." he said, concerned.


    Robert feels worried because he hears from his colleagues who still work in Stellar Entertainment that the new company management looks professional and different from the previous one. If they stated they would sue them all, they would.


    Now, Robert can only hope that his true identity is not traced. But even though he had made sure his tracks were saved, using a fake identity to pay people to ruin Stellar Entertainment¡¯s reputation, worry lingers in his heart.


    Laura¡¯s expression slowly brightens when she hears Robert talking about her fiance.


    "Don¡¯t worry about that. I know what to do," she said, dismissing her manager and heading to the study room to meet her fianc¨¦.


    ****


    Meanwhile, in the Nova City, around the same time,


    The white yacht finally docked at the pier as the sun set over the horizon.


    Bella tightened her jacket while following Tristan. He walked before her, holding their son, who was fast asleep before the ship docked.


    Two men waited for them in the living room when they entered the house. Bella could recognize them as Tristan¡¯s assistants, Dylan and Max.


    After a brief greeting, Bella told Tristan to give her Dax and asked him to chat with them, but Tristan refused.


    "It¡¯s fine, dear. They can wait for me," Tristan lovingly responded while gently touching her cheek with his other hand. Then, he glanced at Dylan and Max. He asked them to wait.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go upstairs¡­" Tristan said while holding Bella¡¯s hand.


    Bella could only smile at Max and Dylan before following Tristan to the second floor.


    ¡­


    Dylan and Max exchange gazes when Bella and Tristan leave the first floor. They stand there for a few more minutes, drawn into their own thoughts, trying to guess what they saw.


    After some time, Dylan broke the silence. "Did you see that?" He glanced at Max before sitting on the sofa. He was shocked to see their young madam finally accept their boss.


    They both knew how hard their boss was trying to pursue his ex-wife, and they never imagined he would succeed so quickly.


    "Yes. Looks like our boss can finally melt Miss Bella¡¯s heart, right?" Max answered while scratching his hair. He felt happy for his boss, Tristan.


    "Mhm¡­ that¡¯s what I saw," Dylan said excitedly. He continued his words after seeing Max sitting opposite him. "Man, let¡¯s pray they¡¯re really together so our worries can finally lessen and our beloved big boss doesn¡¯t bother us over the weekend."


    Max didn¡¯t say anything in response to Dylan. He was distracted when he remembered that Dax was his game mate¡ªalways scolding him for his lack of cunningness when playing games.


    Until now, Max still felt like he was having a mental breakdown every time he saw Dax.


    He played games with a child who was not yet five years old and thought that kid was his gaming teacher. How embarrassing it would be if Dax discovered that he was actually Bitter_Coffee.


    Ever since Max learned of X4D¡¯s real-life identity, he has tried to avoid him. He no longer logs in to his gaming account or Discord because he worries he will encounter him.


    However, when he curiously checked his game ID last night. He wasn¡¯t surprised anymore when he found a short message from X4D in his inbox asking to play a game together tonight.


    Now, Max felt confused. Should he play with the little man again or ignore him?


    "Damn Maxwell! Did you hear me or not?" Suddenly, Dylan¡¯s voice echoed, pulling Max back from his thoughts. He frowned at Dylan, confused by what Dylan was trying to say.


    "What the heck distracts you, man!? Tsk! I asked you a few times, but you completely ignored me..." Dylan snapped.


    Max was surprised. He was too immersed and didn¡¯t hear Dylan speak to him.


    "I was thinking about something. What¡¯s wrong!? Why do you look so tense?" Max asked. He could see the tension in Dylan¡¯s gaze, as if something was terribly bothering him.


    "Read the internet."


    Max frowned upon hearing Dylan¡¯s words. Still, he took out his cell phone and checked. After reading a few headlines, Max placed his phone in his pocket again.


    "Why do you look so calm?" Dylan was confused when he saw Max, who seemed uninterested in the news.


    The news out there will stress their young madam. And if she is stressed, their boss will be affected, too, right?

 Chapter 204: Shocked to Know Her Other Identity

    "Why do you look so calm?" Dylan was confused when he saw Max, who seemed uninterested in the news.


    The news out there will stress their young madam. And if she is stressed, their boss will be affected, too, right?


    "It¡¯s not a big deal, Dylan. Everything will be fine..." Max casually responded, but Dylan was surprised to see his calmness.


    "So, you already know about it?"


    "Yes, Boss asked me to check this matter yesterday when he arrived in this city."


    "I see. But why is the news still there? Why didn¡¯t you help Stellar Entertainment erase them all!? I know you are capable of doing so¡­"


    "Well, man¡­ of course I want to delete everything. But what I found will surprise you." Max chuckled at Dylan¡¯s increasingly confused expression.


    Dylan gazes at Max as if he wants Max to explain further.


    However, Max couldn¡¯t tell Dylan anything now. With an apologetic expression, he replied, "Man, sorry. I won¡¯t explain it to you now. But you can hear it later when I report it to our boss¡­"


    Max still doesn¡¯t believe the results of his investigation. He knew that someone was driving the news circulating on the Internet. When he investigates the person behind this, he is shocked to discover that a hacker is setting the news in motion.


    The hacker ensures that only news related to Stellar Entertainment appears on the Internet. If news related to Quantum Capital or any of their other businesses appears on the Internet, it will be erased automatically.


    When he digs deeper, Max is even more shocked when he discovers the hacker¡¯s identity; he is the hacker he knows, Grim Reaper, his old foe.


    He finds that the Grim Reaper is often in contact with Bella, so he assumes that Bella and Quantum Capital control all the news.


    Therefore, Max decided not to do anything. He needed to consult with Tristan first.


    ...


    Before long,


    Finally, Tristan returns to the living room. He asks Dylan and Max to follow him to the study room.


    After they all settle on the sofa, Tristan glances at Max.


    "Did you find out who attacked Stellar Entertainment?"


    "Yes. Someone paid the buzzer* to write negative comments about Stellar Entertainment. And also, they would write positive comments about Laura Kiels. When I traced the identity of the person who paid the buzzer, I discovered it was Laura Kiels¡¯ Manager."


    Tristan was no longer surprised. He already had suspicions about it. "Are you sure about that?"


    "Yes, boss. Obviously. My evidence is enough to take him to prison." Max said proudly. But, when he saw that his boss didn¡¯t say anything, he seemed to be thinking about something, which worried Max. He could only wait for his boss to ask further.


    "You should know who the mastermind behind him, right?" Tristan asked seriously.


    "I know it¡¯s Laura Kiels. But... Boss, I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t find anything related to her in this case. She never communicated with her manager using her cell phone about this matter." Max said apologetically.


    Max has tried hard to trace Laura¡¯s involvement but found nothing. He believes that Laura is starting to think smarter about using her gadgets.


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s face darkened. He wants to throw Laura Kiels in prison, not just her manager. This woman has dared to stress out his wife, so he needs to punish her.


    However, Max doesn¡¯t have any evidence regarding Laura, which means... he has to find a way to get her. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Later,


    Tristan turns his gaze at Dylan.


    "Ask someone to capture that manager and take him to the usual place," Tristan ordered.


    "Yes, boss. I will instruct them," Dylan responded immediately. He took out his cell phone and walked to a corner to make a call.


    After Tristan saw Dylan leave, he turned to Max again, "Is there anything else you want to say?"


    Max immediately told Tristan everything he knew, starting with Stellar Entertainment, which deliberately allowed an article that slandered them to become a trending topic for days to gather evidence. Once they gathered enough evidence, they held an official press conference and declared they would sue them all.


    But Max didn¡¯t tell Tristan about the identity of the hacker who helped Bella.


    After hearing Max¡¯s explanation, Tristan was lost in thought once again. He was impressed to know that his wife knew how to handle this situation. No wonder she was always calm and refused his help whenever he offered it.


    ¡¯It seems like someone is behind her. Helping her deal with matters like this. Was it Jack or her head secretary, Leo?¡¯ Tristan wondered. Now, he was amusing himself, worrying about something he shouldn¡¯t.


    Tristan smiled faintly before saying, "Thank you, Max, for your hard work. For now, you don¡¯t need to do anything. But, help me monitor the situation and report if anything suspicious happens."


    "Okay, boss," Max answered reassuringly.


    Something crossed his mind before Tristan wanted to dismiss Max; he asked, "You said you found other information about my wife?"


    "Yes. When I investigated Quantum Capital, I discovered that the company was actually related to RDF Group, a big investment company based in New York."


    "I know," Tristan said. He knew that the moment he met Jack Foster last month.


    Max¡¯s eyes brightened when he saw that Tristan didn¡¯t know the vital information he had found.


    "Boss, do you know your wife has a share in that company? RDF Group New York!?"


    "What? She has a shareholding in RDF Group?"


    He never imagined that Bella would own shares there. Moreover, the company did not go public on the stock market; it is a private company. No one can buy the shares unless purchased from the founder or...


    ¡¯Did she buy the shares from Jack? Did she use the money I gave her to invest there?¡¯


    Tristan was stunned to hear his own thoughts. He remembered giving Bella a lot of alimony despite the divorce not being finalized and money from the house he bought from her.


    _____


    *Buzzer: Buzzers voice opinions on social media to make issues trending. They can also be said to be people who use social media to spread information.

 Chapter 205: Finally, Sleep In The Same Bed

    After a tiring day, the night finally arrived. All the lights had gone out; only the moonlight shining through the slightly open curtains could illuminate the room.


    Bella tried to close her eyes, but the sound from the sofa every time Tristan moved made her unable to sleep, even though she tried.


    Several minutes passed, and Bella opened her eyes. She tried to see Tristan on the couch. However, the moonlight couldn¡¯t make her see him more clearly. Worry and guilt now began to emerge in her heart.


    ¡¯Does he feel uncomfortable? Why is he moving every minute?¡¯ Bella muttered to herself as her eyes still tried to look at him. ¡¯Should I ask him to sleep in this bed?¡¯


    Bella took a deep breath as she looked at the remaining empty bed. She felt uncertain when she saw the bed was big enough for them to sleep together. There was still free space for her to put a pillow as a barrier between them.


    ¡¯Should I call him to move back to bed?¡¯ She asked herself while looking towards the sofa once again.


    After a few seconds of thinking, Bella finally decided to call Tristan to sleep with her.


    She would be fine if Tristan didn¡¯t touch her tonight. But if Tristan touched her, there was a chance they would do something she didn¡¯t want to happen tonight.


    Bella swallowed before calling out to him. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Tristan, are you asleep?" she asked in a low voice, worried it would wake him up if he were already asleep.


    Not even a second later, Tristan¡¯s hoarse voice echoed in the room, "Not yet. Why aren¡¯t you asleep yet?" he asked. She could hear the worry in his voice.


    "I couldn¡¯t sleep¡ª" Bella¡¯s words slowly faded when the yellow light in the seating area turned on. She saw Tristan sitting on the sofa, looking at her.


    "Do you feel uncomfortable? Do you need anything? Water? Should I adjust the room temperature¡ª"


    "No, I don¡¯t need anything," Bella interrupted. "Well, I can¡¯t sleep when I hear you moving every minute."


    "Oh, sorry, Bella," Tristan faintly said; he felt bad hearing that. "I will try not to make any sounds. You can try to sleep again."


    "Tristan, you can sleep on the bed. With me...and a pillow to separate us," Bella said softly.


    Instantly, the room became silent. Bella waited for his reaction. Meanwhile, Tristan was shocked to hear her words.


    "Tristan, did you hear me?"


    Silence.


    "It looks like you don¡¯t want to sleep with¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t continue her sentence when she saw Tristan already on the side of the bed, carrying a pillow and blanket.


    She couldn¡¯t help but feel amused seeing the tall man who looked just like their son, Dax. When he feared thunder, he would rush to her bedroom, begging to sleep with her.


    "Bella, I hope you don¡¯t feel forced if I sleep here," Tristan asked seriously. He didn¡¯t want her to feel forced; He wanted their current relationship to be natural, not forced like before.


    "NO. Of course not. But..." Bella fell silent when she saw him sitting on the edge of the bed but not directly lying on the bed.


    When she saw Tristan looking at her, she continued, "You can¡¯t force me to do something I don¡¯t want to. Like, touching me or... well, you know." She took a deep breath, unable to continue her words. She feels shy.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. I¡¯ll keep that in mind." Tristan¡¯s smile grew wider. He turned off the lights in the sitting area and immediately lay on the soft mattress.


    His smile still framed his face because he felt so happy that his beloved wife allowed him to sleep on the bed.


    While Tristan was still trying to enjoy his happiness, closing his eyes and pretending to sleep, Bella lay on his side facing him.


    Bella could see how tense Tristan was now. He faced the ceiling and didn¡¯t move at all. She couldn¡¯t hear his breathing; if she hadn¡¯t seen his chest moving up and down, she would have thought the man beside her was a statue.


    She wanted to laugh but was worried it would make him wake up and do something, like try to kiss her or more than that.


    Gosh!


    Just thinking about it, Bella felt her heart beat fast again. She wasn¡¯t afraid that Tristan could break his promise but was scared of herself. How could she restrain herself if this hot man touched her now?


    What happened in the past was still clear in her memory. Even though Tristan didn¡¯t love her then, he was always gentle with her when they spent time in bed. He never forced her to make love if she didn¡¯t want to. And every time they did, this man always gave her satisfaction first before his own.


    Suddenly, Bella felt her body temperature slowly rise as she thought about their past intimacy. She struggled to put those moments behind her mind while silently taking a deep breath a few times, trying to calm her heart. She could feel how loud her heart was beating now.


    "Good night, Tristan..." Bella whispered. She pulled the blanket up to her neck and slowly closed her eyes, trying to sleep.


    Tristan didn¡¯t dare move, worried it would make Bella even more uncomfortable. But his defenses gradually faded when he heard her gentle voice, like a melody in his ears.


    He turned his head and looked at her. His calm heart was now beating fast again. A faint smile appeared on the corners of his lips before he whispered, "Good night, my wife. Sleep well, and I hope you include me in your dreams."


    Hearing his own words, Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh in his heart. He never thought he could say something like that to a woman. Only this woman, Arabella Donovan, could make him say such words.


    Tristan slowly closed his eyes, trying to sleep, when he didn¡¯t hear her respond.


    However, as drowsiness slowly hit him, his eyes opened wide when he felt her hand land on his chest.


    "...."

 Chapter 206: Tortured Him

    However, as drowsiness slowly hit him, Tristan¡¯s eyes opened wide when he felt her hand land on his chest.


    "...."


    Tristan turned to see her and realized there was no longer a barrier between them. Her body curled up beside him with her hands resting on his chest.


    ¡¯Why did she do this? Is she cold?¡¯


    Tristan wondered when he saw her blanket at the end of her feet.


    He swallowed hard to wet his suddenly dry throat, trying to calm his mind.


    Then,


    Tristan slowly turned his body to face her while gently placing his hands on her waist. He slowly pulled her towards him.


    After ensuring she fit in his arms with her head resting on his arm, he removed his blanket and covered them together.


    Tristan didn¡¯t even dare move, afraid Bella would wake up and move away from him. He can¡¯t let this opportunity slip, right? He wished they would sleep like this until morning.


    However, Tristan realized his weakness. He was just an average human, not a priest or saint. How could he hold back when his alluring wife was in his arms? Even his blood rippled every time he heard her soft breathing.


    He began to feel tired of his own mind, trying to fight not to follow his desires.


    His wife¡¯s sleep in his arms now feels like a punishment. He couldn¡¯t when he wanted to do more¡ªkiss her lips, touch her soft skin.


    Every time his hands started to slip under her pajamas, his promise appeared in her mind¡ªhe wouldn¡¯t touch her against her will¡ªas if warning him.


    Fifteen minutes passed, and he had already lost count of how many times he took a deep breath to clear his stuffy chest.


    A bitter smile slowly emerged from his lips as he closed his eyes. Right now, he could only enjoy her softness and warmth.


    After a few more minutes passed.


    Tristan can finally calm his heart and slowly push back his sultry thoughts. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He gently kissed her forehead and whispered, "Good night, my darling wife..."


    Then, he tried to sleep.


    But,


    Once again, Bella tested his patience when he attempted to suppress his lust, her body moving. At the same time, she made a few seductive moans. He forced himself to believe she didn¡¯t intentionally do that.


    Tristan immediately loosened his embrace, worried that she felt uncomfortable. He allowed her to find her comfortable position.


    He thought Bella would return to her original sleeping position. Still, he felt even more tormented when she only turned over. Their position now felt so close and awkward, with her back facing him and her head resting on his hands.


    A stiff smile appeared on Tristan¡¯s face as he felt his body heat slowly rise again when Bella¡¯s movements caused her plump bottom to brush against his abdomen. He felt blood rush to a particular part of his body, causing it to harden beneath his boxers.


    He swallowed hard, trying to divert his sultry thoughts. Then, he placed his hands on her waist and pulled her firmly to keep her from moving.


    However, Bella seemed to continue torturing him; she kept moving, causing his little brother down there to grow hard and swell.


    A few moments later, Bella unwittingly tormented Tristan. Finally, she stopped moving.


    Tristan felt relieved, but he couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. He gently placed Bella¡¯s head on the pillow, covered her with the blanket, and rushed to the bathroom for a cold shower.


    His breath was shallow as he stood under the shower. Cold water poured over his head and body as his hands were busy alleviating his arousal. His moans drowned out the sound of water as he released his lust.


    A few minutes later, Tristan emerged from the bathroom wearing only a white towel around his waist.


    Tristan felt in a good mood now. With a small towel, he dried his hair.


    However, when Tristan was about to enter the walk-in closet to get clean clothes, he stopped in his tracks. He saw Bella wake up and sit on the bed, looking at him.


    Bella frowned, looking at Tristan shirtless, coming out of the bathroom.


    "Omg! My imagination was starting to run wild. Now, I saw him naked." Bella can¡¯t help but smile bitterly.


    She yawned while squinting her eyes to ensure she didn¡¯t see wrongly.


    Then, Bella turned to the other side of the bed and was surprised that Tristan was not there.


    ¡¯Damn it! I¡¯m not dreaming?¡¯


    "Tr-Tristan, what are you doing?" Bella asked, confused, as she got out of bed. Glancing at the time, she was surprised to know it was two in the morning.


    "Why are you taking a shower now? Do you want to go somewhere?" She continued as she approached him. However, she stopped a few steps when she saw his firm chest more clearly.


    Instantly, she turns her gaze away.


    "Tristan, please wear something. You might catch a cold!" Bella said before she stepped back into bed. She needed to hide her face now; she was sure her face was now like a boiled crab.


    However, as soon as Bella slipped under the blanket, her eyes couldn¡¯t stop looking at the walk-in closet, thinking why Tristan suddenly took a shower in the middle of the night.


    Many questions emerged in her mind, making Bella even more curious. She was also starting to worry that Tristan would return to the capital this early in the morning.


    Before long,


    Bella saw Tristan walking towards the bed. He was wearing a white T-shirt and black training pants, similar to the clothes he had worn before, which made Bella feel slightly relieved.


    ...


    Tristan smiled slightly when he saw Bella lying down, almost her entire body covered with a blanket.


    He was amused by the thought of what had happened before; this girl was torturing him without her realizing it.


    Luckily, she was wearing her long two-piece pajamas. If only she had worn one-piece lingerie, Tristan couldn¡¯t imagine what would happen now. Maybe now they¡¯re still making love.


    ¡¯Bella, I hope you will not make me wait too long, dear...¡¯

 Chapter 207: Weird Dream

    "Bella, why aren¡¯t you sleeping yet?" Tristan asked as he joined her on the bed.


    After lying on her side, he turned to face her. He silently admired her beauty while waiting for her response. But when he saw her brows slightly furrowed, he started to worry.


    ¡¯Why is she angry?¡¯ he wondered, trying to figure out if he did something wrong.


    ...


    Bella¡¯s eyes narrowed when she saw Tristan¡¯s appearance. The sight of him just finished showering made her heart swell.


    Her eyes didn¡¯t leave his face. She saw his still-wet hair glistening under the soft light of the bedside lamp, and his clean face was radiant. She couldn¡¯t help but think to herself, ¡¯Gosh! Why does he look even more charming?¡¯


    Lying close together like this, Bella could smell his lovely fragrance soap. The fresh menthol aroma slowly dispelled her drowsiness.


    The more she feasted her eyes on his good looks, the faster her heart raced, and a strange desire slowly rose within her. She longed to fit herself into his arms as if she were in a dream that woke her up from sleep.


    "Are you alright, dear?"


    Bella was stunned when Tristan¡¯s hand touched her cheek. She enjoyed his touch momentarily as a smile appeared on her lips, but it only lasted a few seconds. Her smile faded as she asked, "Why are you showering at this hour, Tristan!?"


    She asked him with a calm expression, even though she was inwardly trying to restrain herself not to throw herself into his arms.


    Tristan suddenly lost his words when he heard her question; he withdrew his hand and rested it on the pillow that separated them. There was no way he would be honest with her, saying that he took a cold shower to cool down his lust for her. That¡¯s really embarrassing!


    He didn¡¯t want Bella to misunderstand him because he wasn¡¯t the one who started touching her, but she, herself. Now, he had no other choice but to find an excuse.


    After thinking for a moment, Tristan finally found a reason. It was a good enough excuse to cover what had happened earlier.


    A faint smile graced his face.


    "I couldn¡¯t sleep either. And when I remembered I hadn¡¯t showered, I immediately took a shower, hoping I could sleep after that..." Tristan answered in a serious tone.


    However, he almost laughed when he saw her roll her eyes. It seemed his reason was not convincing enough.


    Sigh!


    He didn¡¯t want her to get more suspicious, so he changed the subject.


    "Why are you awake?" he asked casually. But after that, he regretted asking such a question, worried that Bella had woken up because of the noise he made in the bathroom.


    Bella blinked a few times before finally saying, "I had a weird dream..."


    "Weird dream?" Tristan repeated her sentence, worry starting to show in his eyes.


    "Yes. I..." Bella couldn¡¯t continue her words. It would be embarrassing to say she dreamed of being in his arms. She was afraid Tristan might think differently; it was just an excuse for her to ask for a hug.


    "Was it a nightmare?"


    Bella, "...."


    Her tongue suddenly became stiff. She could not utter a single word to answer his simple question. She sighed deeply as she looked away at his chest, avoiding the worried look in his eyes.


    However, without Bella realizing it, her gaze made Tristan think she wanted a hug. A faint smile appeared on his lips. He felt glad to know that her awkwardness was slowly fading.


    "Bella, do you want me to hug you? So you can sleep again?"


    Secretly, Bella clenched her hands under the blanket. Surprised, hearing his question hit the mark.


    ¡¯How did he know?¡¯ She looked up to see him, surprised.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t admit that.


    She withdrew her gaze without expression. "No!"


    Once again, Bella took a deep breath and hid her face under the blanket. At this moment, she could feel that her cheeks must have changed color again, embarrassed by what was on her mind.


    After a brief silence, she whispered, "Tristan, please turn off the lights."


    Bella slowly closed her eyes as the lights went out.


    However, not even a few seconds had passed, and Tristan threw the pillow between them out of bed, surprising Bella. She opened her eyes to see him.


    She was shocked. She saw him move closer, his hand touching her waist.


    Before Bella could say anything, her body was in Tristan¡¯s arms, just as she wished.


    She swallowed.


    "T-Tristan..." she stammered his name while looking into his eyes. She held her breath, seeing how close their faces were now. Tristan¡¯s brilliant blue eyes were just inches away from her, and she could clearly see happiness dancing through his eyes.


    Her heartbeat raced when his warm breath brushed her face. She swallowed hard when she saw his smile grace his charming-godly face.


    Faced with this sudden and delicate atmosphere, her brain could not think straight for a moment.


    "W-What are you doing, Tristan?" After struggling to calm her heart, she finally could continue her words.


    Tristan gently kissed her forehead with a light touch of his lips when Bella didn¡¯t push him away despite her nervousness.


    After his tender kiss, he looked into her eyes again and said, "You know what, Bella? I¡¯ve read an article in the past: If a woman says NO, it means YES..."


    His smile widened when he saw her eyes blinking rapidly as if agreeing with his sentence. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, my darling wife, you will stay in my arms until morning. Don¡¯t worry about anything else. I will keep my promise¡ª" Tristan couldn¡¯t finish his words.


    He was shocked when Bella¡¯s quick kiss covered his lips. Before he could return her kiss, her soft, warm lips parted from his.


    "Good night..." Bella said, burying her face in his chest. She didn¡¯t say anything else, nor did she dare to move. She just fit herself into his warm embrace.


    However, at this moment, Bella still can¡¯t believe what she is doing. How dare she kiss him first!?

 Chapter 208: Responsible

    However, at this moment, Bella still can¡¯t believe what she is doing. How dare she kiss him first!?


    As if he knew that his wife was embarrassed, Tristan, with a deep understanding of her feelings, didn¡¯t try to tease her. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tighter, offering comfort.


    "Goodnight..." he whispered, slightly resting his chin on the top of her head. He tried to sleep with a smile plastered on his face.


    That night, it seemed so short.


    When Tristan opened his eyes, the bright light from the window dazzled his eyes. After adjusting his vision to the light, he saw Bella still in his arms. A warm smile slowly emerged from his lips. He felt overwhelmed with gratitude for their newfound closeness.


    Sleeping while hugging the woman he loved was not just a dream. Unexpectedly, he could now melt Bella¡¯s heart and have her accept him completely. He thought Bella still needed more time, but he was wrong.


    Tristan was grateful that God answered his prayer so quickly.


    But his grateful smile slowly faded when he felt his whole body hurt, especially his hand supporting Bella¡¯s head. He couldn¡¯t believe he could sleep in one position all night while holding her.


    He didn¡¯t get up immediately but waited for her. He let himself enjoy this moment, tightening his arms around her and feeling her warmth.


    However, not long after, a knock came from the door. He glanced at the door with a faint smile on his face. Tristan couldn¡¯t think anyone dared to knock on their room this early in the morning except for one; it must be their son, Dax.


    Tristan made sure the blanket covered their bodies ¡ª he didn¡¯t want his son to see his mother sleeping like a Koala holding him.


    "Yes, come in..." Tristan answered in a low tone, worried about waking Bella in his arms.


    When the door opened, Tristan saw his son, Dax, already dressed in intelligent casual house clothes.


    "Good morning, buddy. Come here¡­" Tristan gestured to him to get closer to the bed.


    When he saw Dax stop opposite him, right behind Bella¡¯s bedside, he whispered softly, "Buddy, sorry. I cannot move over there. Not without waking Mommy. And Mommy is still sleeping peacefully."


    "It¡¯s okay, Dad. I just wanted to tell you I¡¯m going downstairs. I want to get some breakfast..." Dax¡¯s round eyes blinked as he imagined his favorite toast. Last night, he had asked Aunt Noora to make him toast for breakfast this morning.


    Tristan felt sorry for his son because he would eat alone without them. But he also felt sad about waking Bella now.


    "Buddy, you eat first. Ask Aunt Noora or Uncle Geoffrey to accompany you. Mom and I, we¡¯ll be down soon."


    "Dad, don¡¯t worry about me. Just let Mom sleep a little longer..." Dax smiled at his father and then left.


    After the bedroom door closed, Tristan glanced at the digital clock on the nightstand. It was six in the morning, still too early to get up. He agreed with his son to let Bella sleep more.


    Before long,


    Tristan felt Bella finally move in his arms, bringing her body closer. He could feel the softness of her breasts rubbing against the top of his stomach. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, his body suddenly froze when her thigh rose slightly and gently brushed his little brother down there. He silently swallows when his little brother starts to feel stiff again.


    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯


    Tristan vented his frustration while trying to avoid her thigh. But it was useless because he couldn¡¯t move. Bella hugged him like a koala.


    He gritted his teeth as she gently stroked her back, trying to divert his sultry thoughts and wishing she could wake up now. He wouldn¡¯t be able to stop himself if Bella continued to rub his lower abdomen.


    "Bella, why are you trying to challenge my patient so early in the morning?" he whispered. He would probably devour her if they were in this position for much longer.


    He closes his eyes and tries to enjoy it.


    "Challenge what...?"


    Tristan was shocked to hear Bella¡¯s hoarse voice. He looked at her and was surprised to see her eyes slowly opening. A loving smile appeared on his lips as he saw her blinking at him.


    "Good morning, my pretty wife... You finally woke up," Tristan greeted her lovingly, losing his hug to see her face more clearly.


    "Did you sleep well?" He continued while helping straighten her hair, which covered part of her face.


    "Mo-morning, Tristan. Hmm, I sleep well..." Bella greeted him with a faint smile.


    However, her expression slowly changed when she realized their awkward position. She hugged him tight, her hand on his chest and her thigh resting on his lower abdomen.


    Her body instantly turned stiff when she could feel something hard and hot down there.


    ¡¯This¡­!? What... Is this!?¡¯


    She tries to figure out what the hard and hot things are on her tight.


    Not even a second later, Bella¡¯s eyes widened when she realized it was Tristan¡¯s hard cock.


    ¡¯What the hell!?¡¯


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but curse, too shocked by this situation.


    Instantly, she let go of her embrace, turned her body, and avoided him.


    She was too embarrassed to face him right now and could feel how hot her cheeks were.


    Gosh!


    Before Bella had time to calm her shock, she suddenly felt her body being pulled back and hitting Tristan¡¯s sturdy body. She tried to calm herself while waiting for him to say something. However, a minute passed, and Tristan didn¡¯t say anything. He just buried his head in her neck and tightened his embrace.


    Her heart started pounding again and making strange sounds. She can¡¯t help but ask, "Tristan, what are you doing...?"


    She asked, without turning to meet his eyes; she felt so embarrassed to see him now.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry, but you have to take responsibility. You woke up my little brother down there..." Tristan whispered near Bella¡¯s ear, and her whole body immediately heated up hearing his sultry words.

 Chapter 209: Spoiled Brat

    East City, at Isaac Donovan¡¯s house.


    In a medieval-style study room, Isaac Donovan sat on a single sofa, observing his three sons before him one by one.


    Jacob Donovan, his first son, sat on his right. His second son, Lucas Donovan, Bella¡¯s father, sat on his left side, and beside Lucas sat his youngest son, Thomas Donovan.


    It was rare for Isaac to meet them at the same time as now. He was now starting to believe something big had happened in his family.


    The tension in the room was palpable, and although no words left Isaac¡¯s lips, his cold gaze was enough to make his three sons lose their voices.


    After waiting a few more minutes and neither of them starting a conversation, Isaac Donovan¡¯s impatience began to wear thin.


    Isaac took a deep breath before saying, "If none of you start talking, all of you might leave this house. And I won¡¯t see you again until my last breath! And yes, you guessed it right. Anyone that I don¡¯t want to see when I am on my last breath will face a severe consequence." His cold words shocked them all.


    "Father, please stay here," Jacob Donovan begged when he saw his father was about to stand up.


    Isaac set his sights on his first son, Jacob. "Then speak! Who is causing trouble this time?"


    There was only one reason his son asked him to return like this: someone was in big trouble. He had been curious to know about it since yesterday.


    "Father, it is about¡ª" Jacob¡¯s words stopped when he saw his father looking in the door direction with a furious expression. Before he continued, his father shouted in anger.


    "Lucas Donovan, why can¡¯t you educate your son properly?" Isaac snapped angrily, slapping Lucas with his gaze.


    Everyone was shocked. They looked towards the door and saw Henry entering the room in a miserable condition.


    A thin vein suddenly appeared on Lucas Donovan¡¯s forehead when he saw his son, Henry.


    "Why did you come here? Who allowed you to enter this room without permission?" Lucas scolded Henry. However, his stubborn son did not listen to his questions; instead, he walked, approaching his grandfather.


    Isaac Donovan could only take a deep breath while looking at Henry. Just seeing Henry¡¯s dire condition ¡ª his face looked swollen, purple near his eyes, and his left hand was in a cast ¡ª he knew immediately that this brat was the one causing the problem.


    "Who did you offend this time?" Isaac asked when he saw Henry sitting beside Jacob.


    Slowly, Henry could feel the wild beats in his heart when he remembered what happened a few days ago. Bella¡¯s friend tortured him. The man punched him in the face until he no longer recognized his own face, and he also lost two teeth.


    What made him suffer so much was that he broke his radius bone and had to have surgery. And the saddest thing was that the bones in his left hand were crushed.


    Henry really hates Bella! He will definitely take revenge on her. He would make his father¡¯s plan work. Let that bitch marry an old man with three kids the same age as her. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He rushed here when he discovered that his grandfather had returned this morning from the capital.


    However, when Henry arrived, he discovered his father and two uncles had arrived earlier. He couldn¡¯t wait any longer to ensure his Grandpa would let Bella marry Uncle Bradley, so he barged in after threatening Nick.


    "Grandpa, you should give me justice!!" Annoyance could be heard in Henry¡¯s tone.


    Isaac Donovan speaks slowly but clearly, "Why should I do that? If someone beats you, it could mean you are doing something bad to another person ¡ª and that¡¯s what you usually do!"


    He wasn¡¯t surprised anymore to see Henry like this. In the past, this spoiled brat always got into trouble. Either someone beat him like this, or he beat someone.


    They had to spend a lot of money to pay his victim to silence them, or they had to deal with the police to get him out of prison.


    This spoiled brat is only capable of humiliating his family.


    "Grandpa, why do you think I¡¯m the one causing trouble out there?"


    Henry was aware he wasn¡¯t his grandfather¡¯s favorite. He didn¡¯t mind it. However, now he felt sad hearing his grandfather didn¡¯t believe him.


    "I didn¡¯t do anything to hurt anyone. Have you forgotten my promise to you? I will change. I won¡¯t cause problems for the family, Grandpa! Not anymore."


    Isaac Donovan didn¡¯t say anything, but he needed to hear more from him after seeing the honesty in his eyes.


    Henry took a deep breath, his expression slowly turning gloomy.


    "I was on a business trip in Nova City a few days ago. On my last day, I accidentally met my little sister, Bella. But suddenly, my little sister asked her friend to beat me and break my hand." Henry¡¯s voice trembled as he tried to contain his anger, remembering his humiliation and suffering.


    Isaac was shocked to hear that. He vividly remembers not hearing anything from Bella about her encounter with Henry.


    He knew for sure Bella would never do something like that. She was so gentle with everyone, especially her family. She would choose to leave rather than get into trouble.


    Isaac narrowed his eyes at Henry.


    "Don¡¯t try to lie to me, Henry Donovan!" He snapped, warning him. "Your little sister would never hit you if you didn¡¯t offend her. Now tell me, what did you do to make her hit you like this?"


    Isaac trusted Bella more than this useless Henry. He knew that if anyone tried to hurt Bella, her bodyguard would definitely be the one to beat this fool.


    "I told her about my father¡¯s plan to mar¡ª"


    "Enough, Henry!" Lucas Donovan interrupted. He glared at Henry in annoyance. If this damn kid talks, his father might get angry. "Get out now, or I will freeze all your cards and assets!"


    Gritting his teeth in frustration, Henry refrained from denying his father, worried that his father would truly take everything he had. He has no choice but to leave the room immediately, annoyed.


    "What plot are you planning this time, Lucas?" Isaac asked. He could see Lucas hiding something from him.

 Chapter 210: The Next Person To Taste Her Anger!

    "Father, we have investors to help with our construction business." Thomas Donovan, the third son, interrupted, causing Isaac to turn his gaze to his youngest son.


    "Dawson Group invested a large amount of money to help our company. They will also use our construction company to build their minimarkets across the country..." Thomas continues.


    Jacob nodded. He looked at his father. While listening, Thomas began to tell their father about their big plans.


    After Thomas finished, Jacob added, "Father, what Thomas said is true. Our company will no longer experience financial difficulties. We will return to glory in this city in a matter of months," his eyes beamed with joy as he explained.


    When Isaac heard his sons¡¯ words, the wrinkles on his forehead deepened. But he remained silent while thinking about what they were all trying to say. He is still suspicious about something.


    Lucas enthusiastically added, "We are now in the process of rebuilding our company. When other companies learned that Dawson Group had invested in our company, Donovan Group¡¯s name became positive again, and many other companies now want to collaborate with us."


    Thomas laughed happily at his brother¡¯s sentence before saying, "Yes... Yes... since our company suffered after the Sinclair Group cut off their business deal with us in the last two weeks, Dawson¡¯s support has become a breath of fresh air for us. We even got a new contract to build the Emerald Group¡¯s new housing complex."


    Hearing his three sons¡¯ explanations only made Isaac Donovan even more confused.


    Isaac couldn¡¯t understand why they were suddenly reporting about the company when he had already stepped down from management and didn¡¯t care how they ran it now. Even if his company goes bankrupt, he doesn¡¯t care anymore.


    "So? Why did you report to me?" Isaac asked before taking a deep breath.


    Tired of facing them all, Isaac turned his gaze to Nick, standing by the door. He wanted to ask him to drag all his stupid sons out of the room, but Lucas¡¯ words almost made him have a heart attack.


    "Father, the owner of Dawson Group, is a friend of mine. His name is Bradley Caville. He asked for permission to marry Bella, and I agreed. But now, I can¡¯t¡ª" Lucas fell silent when he saw his father raise his hand to stop him¡ªseeing how red his father¡¯s face was made his heart tighten.


    "Lucas Donovan! I am terribly ashamed to be your father. How could you be so mean to your own daughter? What kind of father are you!?" Isaac rebuked. No language could describe how angry he was right now. If a sharp gaze could send people to the coffin, his son would have already entered his own coffin.


    Everyone in the room gasped in surprise at Isaac¡¯s anger, which they had never seen before. No one dared to answer; they just looked at their father silently.


    "How can you decide such an important thing without talking to Bella? Do you think Bella is still a teenager?" Isaac continued, his eyes burning with anger, looking at Lucas. "Because you accepted the proposal, then you should marry him! Don¡¯t involve my granddaughter, Bella, in your foolish plans!"


    Isaac Donovan couldn¡¯t imagine what would happen if Tristan Sinclair heard about their plans; he might send his three stupid sons into the sea to feed sharks.


    He wanted to tell them everything about Bella and Tristan¡¯s relationship, but he held back because he remembered Bella¡¯s warning not to tell anyone. He grumbled inwardly, trying to calm his anger.


    Lucas, "...."


    In the corner, Nick almost laughed out loud when he heard Isaac¡¯s words. However, when he saw Isaac¡¯s face getting redder, he immediately approached and offered water to calm his anger.


    Jacob and Thomas could only purse their lips. They wanted to say something, but seeing how angry their father was now stopped them. And they slowly looked away, avoiding eye contact with their father.


    Lucas clenched his fist before saying, "But father, this is about¡ª"


    "Shut your mouth, or I will beat you, Lucas!" Isaac¡¯s face turned redder and redder as if his blood vessels were about to burst.


    Nick panicked.


    "Master, please don¡¯t be angry. Your blood pressure..." Nick said, worried. He turned his gaze to his master¡¯s sons.


    He gave them all his sharp-dagger gaze before saying. "Please stop saying such words. Old Master will relapse if you all continue to make him angry."


    Jacob and the others didn¡¯t say anything, but their gazes were clearly displeased with Nick¡¯s warning.


    "It¡¯s alright, Nick..." Isaac raised his hand to stop Nick.


    Then, he turned his gaze towards Lucas. He stared at him for a few seconds before speaking. "Bella, she¡¯s not a teenager anymore. She¡¯s too old for you to arrange a marriage for her. So, please, Lucas... stop interfering in Bella¡¯s life. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If you still do that, I might not be able to help you in the future if..." He was silent momentarily, thinking about the correct sentence because he couldn¡¯t tell him about Tristan.


    After a few seconds, Isaac continued, "Never underestimate your daughter, especially when she¡¯s in a rage, which rarely happens. You know what happened to Henry, right? Lucas...if you insist, you might be the next person to taste her anger!"


    Lucas growled, but he couldn¡¯t deny his father¡¯s words. He could only ask his eldest brother, Jacob Donovan, for help.


    Jacob sat up straight, looking at his father. He calmly said, "Father, my brother Lucas did nothing wrong. However, I was the one who was at fault. Because I was the one who asked him to accept the marriage proposal for the sake of our company. The Dawson Group has a good reputation throughout the country.


    If our company joins forces with them, we will make our company¡¯s reputation, which had fallen, rise again."


    "Yes, Father... What Brother Jacob said is true. If my niece Bella marries Brother Bradley, our company will be safe from bankruptcy," Thomas Donovan, the youngest, also chimed in.


    Isaac no longer had the energy to talk to them. It seemed that all his stupid sons wouldn¡¯t stop even if he forced them to, so he dismissed them all from his house.


    He had to return to the capital to talk to Bella about the mess her father and uncle had made for her.

 Chapter 211: Please Tell Me If You Want Me to Stop *

    Beach House, at Nova City.


    Tristan¡¯s hand moves slowly from Bella¡¯s hip to her belly button. His arm muscles grip her tight, and she can feel them on the right side of her torso.


    Her heart pounded even faster when she could feel all of him pressed against her back. And he buried his head on her shoulder, whispering in his soft but deep voice, "Bella, please tell me if you want me to stop."


    Bella failed to say anything. She was so busy calming her heart and too shy to respond because she really wanted him to continue.


    She could feel Tristan¡¯s hands slowly moving up, teasing her lower breast with gentle caresses. Her breath suddenly became shallow as she thought a nameless fire burning fiercely in her body. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I ask you one more time. Do you want me to stop?"


    Silent.


    ¡¯NO! Don¡¯t stop...¡¯ Bella screamed in her mind as she imagined his hands squeezing her breast.


    A smile slowly spread across Tristan¡¯s lips. His hand cupped her soft breast. He could feel her tension, but he didn¡¯t stop; his fingers gently pinched her hardened nipples, and a thin moan escaped her lips.


    Bella could feel her body heat start to burn her inside.


    With a quick movement, Tristan turned her body, and now he was on top of her. Their eyes were level with each other. One hand was still gently squeezing her breast and lower body, pressing against her lower abdomen.


    Their faces were so close that Bella could feel his every breath brushing her tense face.


    "You look beautiful, Bella. I¡¯m so grateful to have you as my wife."


    "Tri-Tristan..." She called his name but couldn¡¯t find the words to continue.


    Bella could feel her face getting hotter now as Tristan¡¯s hands continued to tease her breast, trembling her heart. She swallowed hard, looking back into his beaming blue eyes.


    However, Tristan¡¯s expression slowly changed as his hands stopped teasing her. His body slipped next to her, with his chest pressed against the soft mattress while his head turned towards her.


    He tried to calm his raging lust inside. However, he immediately felt worried when he saw her gaze flash with confusion and annoyance. He turned his body to face her with a gentle smile framing his face. He asked, "You don¡¯t want me to stop?"


    Bella was speechless hearing how casually he said those words. How could she answer such a question? After he succeeded in awakening her lust to make love with him, he stopped right away!


    She wanted to scold him but couldn¡¯t bring herself to say anything. Too embarrassed to meet his gaze, she couldn¡¯t help but bury her face in his chest.


    What she could do now to vent her frustrations in her mind was, ¡¯Tristan Shameless Sinclair, you stupid man!¡¯


    Tristan smiled faintly as he pulled her closer to him.


    "I really want to do it more than you, Bella. But we can¡¯t do it now." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded heavy and annoyed at the same time.


    ¡¯Why?¡¯ She asked in her heart.


    "Did you forget that we have a son?" Tristan chuckled when he felt her body stiffen. "We have to go downstairs now... Our son is probably still waiting for us for breakfast¡ª"


    Instantly, Bella pushed Tristan¡¯s body away, forgetting her embarrassment over their intimacy earlier.


    She got out of bed and sprinted to the bathroom for her morning routine.


    Bella couldn¡¯t stop blaming herself. How could she forget Dax?


    Later,


    As she washed her face and brushed her teeth, Tristan joined her. But she didn¡¯t say anything. She hurried to the walk-in closet to change clothes.


    Bella was no longer embarrassed to remove all her clothes when Tristan was around. But Tristan stopped her just before she put on a knee-length black one-piece dress with a floral motif on the skirt.


    Tristan felt defeated again, looking at her, who only wore a bra and panties. He couldn¡¯t help but hug her from behind while burying his head in her neck. He inhaled as much of her floral scent as needed to distract his sultry thoughts. But he was wrong; it increased his desire to devour her.


    "My darling wife, you look like you¡¯ve never given birth. You still look hot and sexy..."


    "You mean hot and sexy like my body before pranking me with divorce papers?" Bella smiled faintly, remembering her body at that time. She was overweight and didn¡¯t realize that she was pregnant.


    Tristan didn¡¯t respond to her question¡ªworried about hurting her again. He just tightened his hug.


    Bella could feel his lips on her neck, and then the tip of his tongue traced her neck and up near her ear. Her heart beat faster, and her body felt on fire.


    She glanced at Tristan over her shoulder.


    "Ugh! Tristan Sinclair, stop... stop it! We need to go downstairs."


    However, Tristan didn¡¯t immediately let her go. Instead, he turned her body to face him, placed his hand on her arms, and squeezed it gently. His eyes were looking at her, burning with passion.


    He leaned closer and kissed her lips. His tongue slid slightly inside her mouth. When he saw her squeeze her eyes shut, he smiled through his gaze.


    Bella closed her eyes when she felt his warm tongue dancing in her mouth. Rather than resist, she returned his kiss with equal passion. She raised her arms and wrapped them around his neck.


    Just as Bella felt that she was about to die from the lack of oxygen, Tristan finally gave up on his kiss. The tip of his tongue gently swept across her top rosy lips. His pair of blue eyes seemed to be brewing the desire to devour her completely.


    She could feel her knees shudder, so she grabbed his arms to stand properly. Receiving fresh air once again, Bella felt like a drowning person as she gasped for air. She lowered her gaze to avoid his, afraid he would kiss her again.


    "Let¡¯s continue this tonight..." He whispered and let go of her.


    Then Tristans helped her wear her clothes before he changed his clothes.

 Chapter 212: Feeding Others With PDA

    Bella and Tristan rushed to the first floor, hoping they could still accompany Dax to breakfast. However, they did not see him when they arrived, and no one was around.


    "Are they going to the beach for his daily training again?" Bella walked over to the glass wall with a view of the backyard to check. But she couldn¡¯t see anyone near the pool.


    Tristan stood beside Bella, following her line of sight. After he put his hand on her shoulder, he glanced and was surprised to see how worried her gaze was now.


    "Don¡¯t worry, they are probably walking on the beach. Let me call Geoffrey," Tristan smiled, trying to make his wife more relaxed. With his other hand, he called Geoffrey.


    On the first ring, the phone connected, "Good morning, Master. I will come to you¡ª"


    "No need. I just wanted to ask you. Do you know where Dax is?" he asked.


    Tristan¡¯s eyes were still focused on Bella, who was standing in front of him. He could see the unease in her expression. He smiled at her as he took her hand and squeezed it gently.


    However, when his eyes fell on her parted cherry lips, he silently swallowed as he remembered their passionate kiss earlier. He couldn¡¯t help but pull her into his arms, causing Bella to glare at him when her face was suddenly on his firm chest.


    ¡¯Geez! This man is increasingly daring to show his intimacy, feeding everyone with his PDA!*¡¯ She could only vent her frustration in her heart while listening to their conversation.


    "Yes. We are now in the guest lounge on the right wing. He is playing with Max. Do you want me to send him there?"


    Bella could faintly hear Geoffrey¡¯s voice and shook her head to signal Tristan to let their son play computer games with Max. Since they arrived, Dax had never played his game; he mostly spent his time at the pool or beach.


    "Let him play more, Geoffrey."


    "Yes, sir."


    ---


    After Tristan ended the call, he put his cell phone in his trouser pocket while smiling happily to see Bella still in his arms. Even though she had now shifted her gaze to the backyard, her head still leaned on his chest, making his heart swell.


    His hands wrapped around her while kissing the top of her head before he asked her, "Do you want to check on Dax or have breakfast?"


    Tristan was too tall for Bella; her head didn¡¯t pass his shoulders. She needed to look up to see him in the eyes.


    She looks at his blue eyes and quickly answers, "Let¡¯s have breakfast first. He might stop playing with Max if he saw us now."


    "Ok, my darling wife. We need to feed you more food for our wild night later..." Tristan whispered in his alluring tone, but later, he laughed when Bella pinched his stomach.


    He let go of her embrace, took her hand, and walked to the dining table.


    The dining room was connected to the dry, modern kitchen and bar in the corner. A glass wall surrounded the room so they could see the sea and the beautiful garden outside.


    Bella saw that the food still looked warm on the table as if it had just been served before they came down.


    Several types of breakfast were served on the table. Still, Bella chose her usual breakfast. A Hash Browns omelet. She also picks a few pieces of fruit: golden melon and watermelon. For drinks, the kitchen staff served Cold Brew coffee; she poured the coffee herself, added a little low-fat milk to her coffee, and put in a couple of ice cubes.


    After preparing her coffee, Bella turned to Tristan beside her. She was surprised to see him supporting his chin with one hand, his eyes lovingly staring at her.


    Looking at his loving expression, enough to make her heart race again. She silently tries to calm her heart before asking, "Do you want me to prepare your breakfast, too?"


    "If you are willing, it will make me the happiest husband in the world."


    Bella paused, feeling a flutter in her stomach at his endearing words. It was still hard for her to believe that she had witnessed Tristan Sinclair¡¯s romantic shamelessness in the past two days.


    "What do you want to eat?" she asked calmly, placing the empty plate in front of him.


    Tristan was so busy gazing at her beauty that he forgot to answer her question.


    Bella frowned and looked at him, rendered speechless.


    "Tristan? Stop looking at me like that¡­" Bella said, feeling a bit awkward under Tristan¡¯s intimate gaze.


    Instantly, a nameless fire burned inside her as images of their almost lovemaking flashed through her mind. She quickly turned her gaze to her coffee, avoiding his eyes while trying to calm her heartbeat.


    However, Tristan softly called her name before her heart could beat usually. She turned to him. Her eyes widened when she saw his face so close, their noses almost touching. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella pulled her head away.


    However, Tristan¡¯s hand gently held the back of her head, directing it towards him, and kissed her.


    Her heart skipped a beat as she felt his lips cover hers. She broke the kiss and said, "We¡¯re in the dining room, Tristan..."


    A small smile graced his face before he said, "Sorry, Bella. I couldn¡¯t help but want to taste your alluring lips..." His smile widened as he pulled his head away from her.


    Bella sighed as she sat up straight again.


    "What do you want to eat?"


    "I want to eat you... I mean... I want to eat the same as you. And your coffee looks delicious, too."


    Bella said nothing as she placed the Hash Browns omelet on Tristan¡¯s plate and continued making him Cold Brew coffee.


    They enjoyed breakfast while chatting about their plans for the day. This was their last day in this city before they returned to the capital this afternoon.


    "Do you want to go somewhere? Maybe take a ride with Dax?" Tristan asked. He knew Dax hadn¡¯t left the beach house since they arrived.


    "Sounds good. We can go have lunch at a local restaurant..."


    ____


    *PDA = Public Display of Affection

 Chapter 213: Someone Following Us!?

    The three of them finally left the Beach House.


    Tristan decided to drive alone and not drive a luxury car so as not to attract the attention of others; instead, he drove an SUV. A vehicle that is often found in Nova City.


    The sun shone, and the temperature was perfect for enjoying the day outside¡ªnot too cold or hot, with plenty of sunshine and excellent humidity.


    However, within ten minutes after they left the Beach House, when the car entered the public road, Bella became suspicious of the two vehicles seemingly following the last two turns their vehicle had taken while always keeping their distance several car lines behind.


    Bella¡¯s suspicions grew even more because the two cars had the opportunity to pass their vehicle several times, but only one passed them.


    After the next turn, the one that stayed behind made a different turn, but not long after that, the passed car suddenly showed up behind her car again.


    The two vehicles continuously switch while following their car.


    Bella, who had recently become wary of a mafia organization tracking her identity, was very alert. She continued observing the suspicious two cars¡¯ switching movements.


    ¡¯Dark Skull, are they following me here!?¡¯ she wonders, nervous because Dax is with them. She worries that the Dark Skull knows about her son and is endangering him.


    She didn¡¯t tell Tristan about it immediately but continued to watch the car behind for a few minutes. She did not lose sight of the tailing vehicles even when the road got more crowded.


    Nevertheless, the cars still followed their car despite more crowded traffic and taking a few turns.


    Bella couldn¡¯t take it anymore, so she leaned closer to Tristan and whispered.


    "Did you see the two black cars behind?"


    She spoke barely audibly, and only Tristan could hear her. She didn¡¯t want Dax to listen to them; he may be curious or afraid.


    Tristan quickly glanced at the rearview mirror to check the cars Bella mentioned. Then he glanced at her and nodded to respond.


    "The cars have been following us since we left the beach house. I¡¯m afraid they are not good people. Can you try to get away from them?"


    He smiled, hearing her worried tone. "Don¡¯t worry; they are my bodyguards," he said casually, but Bella could feel the annoyance in his tone.


    Bella was relieved to hear that but also amused when she realized she was worrying too much. She leaned back casually in her seat and asked him, "So the rumor that you have an army¡­ I mean, having a lot of bodyguards following you is true!?"


    She glanced at him, curious to hear his answer.


    Tristan chuckled at her words. "Well, they shouldn¡¯t be visible. Now, I¡¯m amazed... how did you recognize them right away!? It looks like I need to discipline them all," he said casually, but Bella could feel he was disappointed with his guards and serious about punishing them.


    Instantly, she felt terrible about exposing them. "Oh, please, Tristan... there¡¯s no need to discipline them. Maybe I am just too sensitive to someone following us; you must know my reason, right?"


    Bella smiled when she saw Tristan turn to look at her. "I¡¯m worried about your mother..." She didn¡¯t say her last words, but when she saw Tristan nod, she knew he had to understand.


    "Please, Tristan, you don¡¯t have to do anything to your guard," Bella pleaded; she felt sorry for his guards if he punished them.


    "Hmm, of course. I will do whatever you want, darling."


    Bella, "...."


    While Bella chatted with Tristan, Dax, who sat in the back row, secretly listened to their conversation. He was curious to know why his father had so many bodyguards! He could see two black vans following them. He guessed there were ten or more people there.


    After a pause, Dax finally had a chance to speak.


    "Dad, why did you bring so many bodyguards to protect you? Geoffrey told me you were good at martial arts and even stronger than him. So, I don¡¯t think you need that much protection." Dax asked as his eyes fell on Tristan.


    Bella was surprised to hear Dax¡¯s question. She turned to look at him and smiled when she saw his expression. Her son¡¯s eyes glinted with curiosity as he looked at his father. Then she also turned to Tristan, curious to hear his answer.


    Tristan glanced at Dax in the rearview mirror before responding.


    "Because I can¡¯t deal with bad people. So, my bodyguards will take care of them."


    "Dad, you didn¡¯t answer my question..." Dax wasn¡¯t satisfied with his father¡¯s answer.


    Bella, "...."


    Tristan, "...."


    They were both speechless when hearing of Dax¡¯s curiosity.


    "That¡¯s because¡ª" Tristan paused momentarily, fixing his gaze again on the street ahead and considering the right words to explain to his son.


    "Because I can¡¯t afford to get hurt or create negative news. I have a lot of responsibilities in taking care of the company. If I get hurt, it will be troublesome for the company; negative news can make our company¡¯s share price drop. The company would suffer." Tristan wanted to say those words, but he was concerned Dax might not fully understand.


    After a few seconds, Tristan finally found the correct answer. However, before he could speak, Bella chimed in.


    "Because your Dad can¡¯t display his strength," she smiled at Tristan, who briefly glanced at her. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax turned to his mom, his brow slightly furrowed. "Dad, can¡¯t display his strength!? What do you mean, Mom!?"


    Bella silently chuckled with Dax¡¯s curiosity.


    "I¡¯ve read books about strategy, business, or war. It¡¯s best if the enemy doesn¡¯t know our strength. We don¡¯t need to show it to them if it¡¯s unnecessary. That¡¯s why your dad avoids danger and lets his bodyguard take care of it."


    Bella knew Tristan was having trouble answering Dax. And this was the only answer she could give to prevent their son from asking further questions.


    Dax nodded, agreeing with his mother.


    "Now I remember. My teacher Geoffrey also said that. He said I needed to learn martial arts to strengthen my body and discipline, not to show off my strength to others."


    Bella was relieved that Geoffrey had taught Dax about it.

 Chapter 214: Unknown Call? Only One Name Comes to Her Mind, Sean!

    "That¡¯s why your father needs many bodyguards to protect him. As a business owner, many bad people want to harm him. Isn¡¯t that right, Tristan?" Bella turned her gaze to Tristan.


    "Yes, my dear, that¡¯s right." Tristan smiled at her. Satisfied hearing her explanation.


    Bella smiled again and focused back on the road ahead. However, not even a minute later, Dax asked another question that almost choked her.


    "Mom, why do you still call my dad by his name?"


    Bella was stunned to hear that. Hearing his question instantly makes her feel awkward. She feels weird calling Tristan him with my husband, darling, or something similar. This is why she preferred to call Tristan by his name.


    After thinking momentarily, Bella pretended she hadn¡¯t heard Dax¡¯s question. However, Tristan added fuel to the fire, causing her to roll her eyes at him.


    "My dear wife, you should start calling me Hubby or Honey. I don¡¯t mind which one you prefer. You can choose whatever you like." Tristan grinned at her before turning his gaze back to the road. He avoids her glare.


    Bella secretly let out a deep breath, venting her frustration inwardly,


    ¡¯Oh my, this guy! He can¡¯t miss the opportunity to tease me, huh!¡¯


    She turned her gaze outside, trying to ignore them, but once again, her son joined forces with his father.


    "Yes, Mom, you should. If someone hears you, I am afraid they might think my father is not your husband."


    ¡¯Unbelievable! How could this four-and-a-half-year-old child say such words?¡¯


    Bella looked back to see Dax. Seeing how adorable his expression was now amused her. But she maintained her curious expression, "Baby, where did you hear such words!?" She narrowed her eyes at him.


    Dax paused for a moment as if thinking about something. Then, he gave an ambiguous answer. "Mom, I guess... I heard someone say that."


    Bella didn¡¯t need to ask anymore; she simply turned her gaze to Tristan. She knew the person who had told Dax about it¡ªthe person who now smiled widely while focusing on the road ahead.


    Taking a deep breath, she asked, "Hubby, which restaurant are we going to for lunch?"


    Tristan smiled in amusement at her words. "We¡¯ll be there in a few minutes," he said, glancing at her.


    She ignored him and looked out the window again.


    ...


    Before long, their car finally arrived at the beachside restaurant. The restaurant looked busy despite being far from the main street.


    The parking lot appeared almost full, but Tristan didn¡¯t even look at the packed parking lot. He stopped his car in front of the main entrance. When they exited the car, one of Tristan¡¯s bodyguards suddenly appeared and immediately parked the vehicle.


    Even though the restaurant seemed full with every table occupied, a waiter promptly greeted them and escorted them to the VIP room. It appeared Tristan had already reserved their VIP room.


    The room was clean, with a modern interior and a large long table in the middle. This was the typical VIP restaurant Bella usually saw. However, what surprised her was the wide glass window, which offered a stunning view of the blue sea stretching as far as the eye could see.


    Several couples and families strolled on the white sandy beach despite the sun shining.


    Seeing their happy faces, Bella felt a twinge of envy.


    Bella wished she could freely walk to the beach without anyone recognizing them. But it seemed she couldn¡¯t take that risk, worried that someone might snap a photo of them if they stayed outside for too long.


    The breathtaking view captivated not only her but also Dax. He even asked his father if they could walk to the beach.


    While Tristan and Dax chatted and enjoyed the view near the glass wall, Bella ordered their food from the waiter.


    Finishing the order, Bella sat in her chair overlooking the beach view, listening to Dax and Tristan¡¯s conversation.


    "Why do you like the sea so much, Buddy?" Tristan asked. Ever since Tristan first met Dax, his eyes sparkled whenever he talked about the sea or the beach.


    Dax was silent for a moment. His gaze remained fixed on the blue sea in the distance.


    Not long after, he looked up to meet his father¡¯s eyes.


    "Maybe it¡¯s because I like warm places... that¡¯s why I like the sea."


    "I see," Tristan smiled at him. He ruffled Dax¡¯s hair before continuing, "We can go to the beach anytime. I have an island near the capital, only an hour from the pier. We can go there every weekend if you want."


    "Wow! Really..." Dax was excited.


    "Yes..."


    Hearing Tristan and Dax¡¯s conversation made Bella¡¯s heart ache slightly. She knew her son didn¡¯t like cold places.


    She felt sorry for Dax because she had been so selfish in choosing a remote place like Northern Sweden, where the temperature was always cold, as their place to live.


    ...


    Not long after, the food was served.


    A variety of grilled seafood was placed on the table. They enjoyed lunch while chatting, mostly Tristan conversing with Dax. Meanwhile, Bella only occasionally joined in their conversation.


    Bella ate slowly. When Tristan and Dax finished, she only ate half of her lunch. She looked at her son, who was already standing by the glass wall, gazing at the sea; instantly, she felt sorry for him.


    "Tristan, you two can go for a walk outside. I¡¯ll wait here."


    Hearing Bella¡¯s words, Tristan was reluctant to leave her alone.


    "Go. It¡¯s okay. I will enjoy this food without rushing..." Bella smiled at him and then looked at Dax. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Baby, you can go out with your dad. You can get ice cream there..." Bella pointed to one of the stalls a few meters away from where they were.


    A few minutes after Tristan and Dax left her alone in the VIP room, Bella finally finished her lunch.


    Bella stood against the glass wall, looking at the beach, trying to spot Tristan and Dax. Before she could find them, her cell phone rang.


    "Unknown number?"


    No one else knew her phone number besides the contacts in her phonebook.


    Except...


    "SEAN!?"

 Chapter 215: Surprised Phone Call

    "SEAN!!"


    It could be Sean! It must be Sean! Who else can call her through this number? If not Sean, who else? Bella couldn¡¯t think of anyone else to call her through this number.


    Bella could feel her heart tighten, but she immediately brushed aside the heavy feeling. After exhaling several times to calm herself, she answers the call.


    "Hello¡­"


    "Hello, good afternoon, Miss Arabella Donovan. I¡¯m sorry if my call disturbed you in any way." A woman¡¯s voice greeted her quickly but politely, startling Bella.


    ¡¯A woman¡¯s voice. But not her friends. Sounds like a dignified, well-educated woman. Who is this woman? I don¡¯t recognize her voice at all! How did she get my personal phone number?¡¯


    Bella was confused. She glanced at the number on her cell phone screen. After carefully checking, she found that it was a local cell phone number.


    ¡¯This caller must be a stranger to me. Why could this woman call me?¡¯


    Her cell phone number was private; even her parents didn¡¯t know it. She had also asked Stefan to block anyone not on her phone¡¯s contact list from calling, messaging, or tracking her GPS location through the phone. Stefan has made the application exclusively for her. No one could break through unless they had a hacker with abilities similar to Stefan¡¯s.


    ¡¯This...¡¯


    Bella immediately turned on the recording before answering the call.


    "I¡¯m sorry. But I have to interrupt you. Who are you? How did you get my number? I don¡¯t have your number in my contact list." she calmly asked, successfully hiding her confusion.


    "Oh, my. Where¡¯s my manners... My sincere apology, Miss Arabella... I should have introduced myself first."


    Bella could hear the woman sounding a little embarrassed without losing her politeness. Still, she said nothing, patiently waiting for this woman to answer her question.


    "Once again, I apologize to you, Miss. My name is Amanda Spencer. Maybe you¡¯ve heard my name before from Sean? I¡¯m Sean Spencer¡¯s aunt. You are Miss Arabella Donovan, right?" Amanda¡¯s voice sounded so gentle anyone who heard the tone would think she was trying not to upset Bella.


    But Bella failed to notice Amanda Spencer¡¯s gentleness; she was utterly shocked to hear her name.


    ¡¯What!? Amanda Spencer? Sean¡¯s aunt?¡¯ Bella repeated the woman¡¯s words inwardly.


    Instantly, she felt her knees go weak, knowing she was talking to Amanda Spencer, someone she usually saw on television or the internet. Most importantly, she was Sean¡¯s aunt.


    Bella silently gulped before greeting her back, "Hi¡ªHi..." She felt like a lump was in her throat. She cleared her throat before continuing, "Yes, I am. Is there something you want to talk to me about?"


    Amanda didn¡¯t answer right away. Instead, she laughed lightly, delighted. Bella¡¯s private number was extremely challenging to obtain and to break. She could obtain and call the number only because of her resourcefulness and some luck.


    Her curiosity about Arabella Donovan increased when she couldn¡¯t trace her public registered ID. No information about her family details and home address could be found; she only knew her office address.


    She guessed this was all because of her nephew, Sean, who protected Bella¡¯s identity. She felt lucky to finally have Bella¡¯s number yesterday.


    Amanda really needed to contact Bella because, after she told her sister-in-law about Bella, her sister wanted to meet Bella, too.


    "Oh yeah, lots of things. May I call you Bella, or would you prefer me to call you Miss Arabella¡ª"


    "Bella would be fine." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sounds perfect. Bella, you can also call me Amanda."


    "Sure¡­Amanda," Bella answered as she sat down in the chair. She couldn¡¯t stand while chatting with Amanda for too long because her knees were starting to give out. She was terribly nervous right now.


    "Bella, would you mind sparing a fraction of your precious time to meet me in person?"


    More and more questions whirled around her mind upon hearing that Amanda wanted to meet her.


    "Why do you want to meet me? To prevent me from seeing Sean?" Bella wanted to ask like that, but she held back.


    She saw no good reason why they should meet Amanda Spencer. It was better not to meet anyone related to Sean now. In this situation, she needed to meet Sean first, not his aunt and anybody else in Spencer¡¯s family.


    However, Bella¡¯s mouth betrayed her. Subconsciously, she answered, "Okay, Amanda. But not today. Today, I¡¯m still in another city..."


    ¡¯Damn! Why did I answer so awkwardly like that?¡¯ Bella could only vent her frustration in her heart while secretly gritting her teeth, feeling frustrated.


    "Thank you very much, Bella. Oh, of course... You can decide when and where we should meet. But the sooner we meet, the better, Bella. We have a lot of things to discuss, agree?"


    Bella was silent.


    "By the way, I called you using my private phone number," Amanda said excitedly. "I hope you will save this number in your contact list. And, please, call me anytime you have the chance."


    Bella couldn¡¯t turn back time to reject Amanda Spencer. Even though her heart felt heavy, she still answered awkwardly, "You can count on me, Amanda. I will contact you at the first opportunity I have..."


    ¡­


    Five minutes had passed since Bella ended the awkward phone call with Amanda Spencer.


    The conversation was so shocking Bella couldn¡¯t do anything else. She was just sitting in her chair, her eyes still fixed on the dark screen of her cell phone. Her mind was filled with countless questions about why Amanda Spencer wanted to meet her.


    Bella immediately ruled out the possibility that Amanda wanted to meet her for business reasons. That was highly unlikely.


    The only reason for this meeting was definitely related to Sean because Amanda issued the Spencer Black Card for her ¡ª she might have misunderstood her relationship with Sean.


    "Black Card¡ª" A smile slowly appeared on her lips. "There¡¯s a good reason to meet Amanda Spencer. I have to return Spencer¡¯s Black Card to her¡­" She couldn¡¯t keep Sean¡¯s family¡¯s precious card.


    Bella placed her cell phone on the table. She briefly closed her eyes to force her mind to brush away what had just happened.

 Chapter 216: Boycott!

    After successfully clearing and calming her mind, she enjoyed her favorite dessert¡ªa slice of her favorite New York cheesecake with vanilla ice cream.


    As she coursed through the delicious cake, her cell phone vibrated again.


    Unlike the first call, Bella was so relaxed this time. She didn¡¯t rush, checking her phone with her other hand without stopping munching on her dessert.


    It was Leo. He had sent her a few links to check.


    "10 Interesting Facts About Laura Kiels You Don¡¯t Know Exist."


    Just reading the article¡¯s title, Bella already knew who posted the news.


    ..."


    Bella shook her head slowly and chuckled.


    "Seriously, Stefan? You¡¯re really creative in creating a gossip website that specifically discusses this bitch."


    She clicked on the link and was surprised to find not just one article but many. It seemed like Stefan had created this website a while ago.


    "This guy! Does he want another bonus!?" Bella smiled and started reading the article.


    Reading the news written by Stefan and ANetz¡¯s reactions put Bella in a good mood.


    There was only one news story, but it immediately became a trending topic.


    Nearly two thousand people shared the article, and there were almost ten thousand comments, with more comments increasing every second. Some comments are probably Stefan¡¯s bot, but many others are legit.


    ...


    As the article about Laura Kiels spread, several similar articles, each filled with controversy, started appearing on various websites.


    "Laura Kiels, show me what you will do now?" A sinister smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips.


    After reading A-Netz¡¯s comments, Bella¡¯s heart was comforted.


    Many people started to change their opinion of Stellar Entertainment. They blamed Laura Kiels for her selfishness and unprofessional ethics and conduct. Some A-Netz even started a petition to boycott Laura Kiels altogether.


    However, even though many people supported Stellar Entertainment, Laura¡¯s fans remained stubborn. They vehemently denied the facts and said that the article was a HOAX, raising questions about the photos¡¯ authenticity and the claims¡¯ credibility.


    Bella started to check their comments one by one:


    "This is a hoax! Nowadays, it¡¯s elementary to make edited photos."


    "FR! FR! For a picture like this, I can edit it too!"


    "Ha ha ha... You are right, dude! It is impossible for our fairy Laura to go to such a place and party until morning."


    "IKR! She¡¯s so gentle. And she rarely goes to parties. After all, she¡¯s our nation¡¯s little sister!"


    "Yeah! Sister Laura was our angel."


    "I agree with you guys. She would not wear super sexy clothes like this!? This is clearly Photoshop! Tch... What an amateur..."


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s expression darkened.


    She took a deep breath.


    "Do I need to ask Stefan to release some video footage of Laura having a wild party to make them believe it? Or when someone brings her to the hotel when she is drunk!?"


    Bella placed her phone on the table and continued to eat her dessert.


    Later, she decided to call Stefan.


    "Sis, why did you suddenly call me?" Stefan¡¯s deep voice could be heard from the other end. Bella immediately knew that Stefan had just woken up from his sleep.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Stefan. I know I might wake you up..." Bella quietly took a deep breath.


    Living on a different continent from Stefan was really annoying. The time difference made it difficult for them to communicate if there was something urgent like this.


    If she needed Stefan during the day, it was already nighttime at his place.


    "I need you to work right by my side. Can you come to Astington and stay for a few months until I clean up the mess in the company?" Bella suggested.


    That¡¯s the only way for them to work faster; they could communicate every time without sacrificing anyone¡¯s sleep.


    Stefan took a few seconds to respond to Bella¡¯s question. He really wanted to fly to Astington to meet her and her son, but he also needed to complete a few more things here before he could fly.


    "It¡¯s okay if you can¡¯t, Stefan. Don¡¯t feel pressured." Bella chuckled when she heard nothing from him for a bit too long.


    "Hahaha, sis, you are still the same, impatient person. Well... I was busy counting how many days I have to finish my current workload before I can fly there." Stefan explained.


    Bella was excited to hear his response, "Oh, you can come here?"


    "Yes... Yes... but I need a few more days to finish my work. I think I can get there next week. But let me reconfirm to you later. And, besides my work, I also need to talk to the big boss." He chuckled, thinking about Jack.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right. But don¡¯t worry about Jack; I¡¯ll call him, too, and ensure he won¡¯t put another load on you. And don¡¯t worry about where to stay when you¡¯re here. Would you prefer an apartment or sharing a floor with Leo in my condo?" Bella offered.


    She had an apartment on top of the Quantum Capital Building, and there were several empty rooms Stefan could live in. If Stefan needs to set up a supercomputer room, he can install one in the study room; it will be safer.


    "It doesn¡¯t matter for me, sis. I can live anywhere... as long as I have a room for my computer."


    "Alright. Consider it done. I will arrange it for you now so you can use it right away once you¡¯re here." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sis, why did you call me?"


    "It¡¯s about Laura Kiels. By the way... you did a great job with the website and the articles. But some A-Netz still doubts the images you uploaded. They say it must be Photoshop..."


    "What the fuck!!" Stefan couldn¡¯t help but curse.


    "Hahaha, I know, right? They¡¯re all so stupid. Really... Really stupid! They deny the fact that their idols are actually a bitch!" Bella¡¯s emotions stirred again. "Do you have any revealing pictures?


    Or her sex party videos? Let¡¯s upload them."


    "Tch!! Sis, of course, I have. Don¡¯t worry. I randomly scheduled several articles with more convincing evidence that will be published daily."


    "You are a genius, Stefan! Okay, you can continue to sleep again. And let me know when you will arrive here. I will arrange for someone to pick you up."


    "Thank you, big sister. I¡¯m so excited to meet you now," Stefan happily said.


    "See you soon. I can¡¯t wait to meet you too..." Bella smiled, looking at her cell phone, but her smile faded when she heard a voice from the door.

 Chapter 217: Move To Tristan’s House (1)

    "See you soon. I can¡¯t wait to meet you too..." Bella smiled, looking at her cell phone, but her smile faded when she heard a voice from the door.


    "Mommy¡­"


    Bella turned around and looked at the door. She saw Dax walking up to her, with Tristan following behind.


    ¡¯Did they hear me speaking with Stefan?¡¯ Bella wondered while smiling at them. She immediately stood up from her seat and approached her son. However, when she saw Dax¡¯s cheeks turn red like boiling crabs, she was amused; he looked adorable.


    "Did you have fun out there?" When Bella saw Dax nod, she continued to ask, "How much ice cream did you eat?" She stifled a laugh when she saw the chocolate ice cream stain on his white shirt.


    "Two," Dax answered while making a V sign.


    "Baby, do you remember your diet plan, right? Today, you won¡¯t be able to eat ice cream anymore..." Bella said softly, rubbing her cheek.


    Bella was concerned about Dax¡¯s weight. He had been gaining weight lately and had passed the ideal weight for his age. Before they flew to Nova City, she consulted with a doctor. The pediatrician suggested that Dax should start adjusting his diet so he doesn¡¯t get out of control and become overweight.


    Suddenly, Dax¡¯s eyes blinked when he heard his mother¡¯s words. He couldn¡¯t believe what he heard. His shoulders slumped before he asked. "Mom, I haven¡¯t eaten my cake yet. Can I have my cake later!? Please..."


    Bella ruffled his hair as she answered, "Of course you can, dear..."


    She no longer asked Dax but turned her gaze towards Tristan. She saw him standing near the door with his gaze fixed on her.


    "We have to go back now, right?" It was already past two in the afternoon. They had to fly to the capital at five PM, and there was not really enough time to do anything else.


    "Hmm, yeah. I think that¡¯s for the best. Plus, you and Dax need to rest before we go to the airport," Tristan answered. His eyes glanced at the table.


    When Tristan saw her clean plate, he felt relieved that Bella had finished her lunch. He worried that she had been busy talking on the phone and had forgotten to eat.


    "Alright, let¡¯s return to the beach house now."


    After Bella grabbed her bag, they immediately left the restaurant.


    ****


    Capital.


    They arrived at Little Heaven at eight o¡¯clock.


    Bella already knew they would start moving into Tristan¡¯s house today. However, her heart was tense when their car headed to Tristan¡¯s house, not her grandfather¡¯s. She didn¡¯t know why, but a nameless feeling emerged from her heart, making her worry.


    She didn¡¯t leave the car immediately, even after her son and Noora happily entered the house. They both looked excited.


    Sighing silently, Bella turned her eyes to Tristan outside the car. He was talking with Geoffrey as if he were instructing him on something.


    Later,


    After Bella took her bag and exited the car, she turned her gaze towards her grandfather¡¯s house while clenching her fists.


    However, Bella¡¯s worries gradually faded when she saw Tristan walking towards her. She smiled at him when he placed a hand on her shoulder.


    "Let¡¯s go inside..."


    She answered him with a "Hmm..."


    "My dear wife, this is the first time you have entered our new home since you decided to return to me," Tristan¡¯s brilliant blue eyes beamed at her.


    She frowned while nodding. "Yes. So?"


    Tristan¡¯s smile grew wider before he continued, "Do you want me to carry you in princess style? I often see that scene in romantic movies..." He asked with his thoughtful and deadpan expression, almost causing Bella to choke.


    Bella, "...."


    Gosh! When does this busiest man in the country have so much free time to watch movies? A romance movie? Seriously!?


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything as she continued to walk beside him, holding his hand. However, before she went through the main door, she stopped. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan was stunned. He quickly turned to her, worried she was reluctant to enter their house. He put his hand on her arm and made her face him.


    "What is it, Dear? Why do you look reluctant to get in?" Tristan asked, glancing at the vehicle they had used. "Is there anything left in the car? Let me get it for you..."


    "Tristan, I didn¡¯t leave anything behind," Bella took a deep breath, looking into his eyes for a few seconds before saying, "I think we should say hello to Grandpa before I officially move here. He was our elder, and I lived in his house for months¡­ It would be rude not to do that, right?"


    He raised his eyebrows, hearing her words. "Seriously, you didn¡¯t know that?"


    "Know about what?" Bella asked, confused.


    "Grandpa Isaac and Nick are going back to East City. They flew there early this morning and won¡¯t be back for a few days¡­" he explained.


    Bella was utterly surprised. She didn¡¯t expect her grandfather to go back to the East. She knew her grandfather¡¯s agenda. He had no plans this year to return East.


    Countless questions popped into her mind: Why did Grandpa suddenly return to the East City? Was there a problem that made him leave without saying anything to her?


    "I don¡¯t know about it," Bella answered worriedly. "How did you know about that!? Why did he suddenly return to the East?"


    Tristan smiled while taking her hand and squeezing it gently.


    "This morning, I called Grandpa Isaac to ask permission for you and Dax to move into this house. But he said he was already in East City..." Tristan recounted everything he talked with Isaac to her. "But when I asked why he suddenly flew back to the East, Grandpa said nothing."


    Bella turned to look towards her grandfather¡¯s house while thinking.


    She was starting to worry that her grandfather had fled to the East, which was related to what Henry had told her a few days ago.


    ¡¯Grandpa, they forced you to come back because of my arranged marriage with that old man?¡¯

 Chapter 218: Move To Tristan’s House (2)

    "Darling, is there any trouble in your family in East City?" Tristan asked, his tone showing a genuine worry.


    Bella turned her gaze back to Tristan. "No. Nothing happens. Everything is fine as far as I know," she answered, maintaining her smile.


    She didn¡¯t want to ruin Tristan¡¯s mood on their first day back together, living under the same roof.


    "Are you sure?" Tristan slowly raised his hand, gently stroking her hair. He continued his words when he didn¡¯t hear her response and saw her avoiding his gaze. "I mean... you still seem worried about something. You can share it with me, Bella. I¡¯ll try to help no matter what..." He meant it.


    Hearing the sincerity in his voice, Bella turns to see him again. "Thank you, Tristan. But I also don¡¯t know what happened there. I will let you know if anything is wrong and ask for help if necessary."


    His worried gaze slowly faded, replaced with his spring-like smile.


    However, before Tristan could say anything, Bella said, "Let¡¯s enter the house. Dax must be waiting for us!" She stepped into the house without waiting for Tristan.


    Even though Bella was already familiar with this house¡ªshe visited almost every day¡ªwhen she entered it again after deciding to return to Tristan as his wife, she felt joy, excitement, and fear. Those emotions were mixed so well that Bella couldn¡¯t determine which one she felt the most.


    Bella tried to calm her heart and mind as she continued walking towards the living room. However, upon entering, she found it empty. She didn¡¯t see Dax there.


    She turned to look at Tristan beside her, but he spoke before she could. "Dax is not in the living room. Maybe Dax has gone to his bedroom," Tristan said, taking Bella¡¯s hand. "Let¡¯s check on him..."


    Bella nodded. There was no reason to stay on this floor; there was no dinner tonight. They had already eaten on the plane before landing. Her son must be tired and sleepy now.


    ....


    Bella and Tristan entered Dax¡¯s room just as he finished changing into his pajamas.


    "Hi, Dax. I thought I would see you in the living room. Are you going to bed early, buddy...?" Tristan walked over to his son¡¯s bed and sat on the edge, helping him with his blanket.


    "Are you tired, my son?" Bella asked in worry.


    "Mom, Dad, my activities will continue tomorrow. So I decided to go to bed early because I will be busy from morning to evening." Dax smiled back at his mother before bidding them goodnight.


    Bella was always amazed by the maturity of her son¡¯s mind. She never imagined this young man would think and talk like an old man, just like his father.


    They finally left his room after showering Dax with kisses,


    ...


    Later,


    Bella narrowed her eyes at Tristan after she saw him close the bedroom door.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Tristan chuckled as he approached her. He placed his hands on her waist and pulled her closer to him.


    Even though they were still fully clothed, the moment his body came into contact with hers, Tristan could feel his blood sizzling, rushing to certain parts of his body.


    "My beautiful wife, I know... you can¡¯t wait to sleep with me, but can we clean up first? Or do you want to take a bath together?" A faint smile slowly appeared on his lips as he leaned closer to her face to kiss her.


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Jeez!! Tristan Shameless Sinclair... who wants to make love with you!?¡¯


    She pulled her head away from him, avoiding his kiss. When she saw his shocked expression, she rolled her eyes before answering. "Throw away what you¡¯re thinking, Mr. Sinclair... That¡¯s not what I¡¯m thinking right now."


    Suddenly, a faint line appeared on his forehead as he said, "Huh! So, am I wrong?"


    "Yes... Yes... You are!"


    "Ha ha ha..." Tristan awkwardly laughed. "I¡¯m sorry, darling. I thought you couldn¡¯t wait any longer," he said while gently rubbing her dainty nose.


    Tristan led her to the sofa at the end of the room. After they sat side by side, he asked, "Then, why were you looking at me like that? Like you want to swallow me through your gaze. Is there something you want to say?" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Do you realize that you are increasingly influencing Dax?" Bella said. She was amused when she saw him frown. "I mean, the way he talks and his attitude in serious mode is the same as you."


    Tristan tried to remember his son¡¯s behavior in the last few weeks. Moments later, he laughed.


    "Wow! You are right, dear. Dax literally copied-pasted me..." Tristan said as he slid his arms behind Bella, placed them on her waist, and pulled her closer to him. There was no space between them; he could feel her body heat increasing like his.


    He tried to calm his heartbeat for a few more seconds before saying, "Thank you, Bella. You have given birth to my mini-me... I love you so much." Tristan leaned closer, kissed her lips, and pulled her into his arms.


    The light kiss and his tight embrace suddenly made Bella feel her whole body heat up. Even the air conditioner in the room failed to make the room temperature comfortable. She wanted to immediately take off her clothes and take a cold shower.


    They hadn¡¯t made love since the last time they almost did it at the beach house. Tristan wanted to make their first experience memorable, a honeymoon experience. Because in the past, they had never been on a honeymoon.


    "Bella, I can¡¯t wait any longer..." His hoarse voice near her ears sped up her heartbeat.


    "Have you forgotten what you said yesterday!?" Bella answered him calmly.


    Tristan pulled himself away from Bella, trying to hold back his lust. He rested his back against the sofa, looking at the ceiling.


    Second later,


    He closed his eyes, trying to calm his mind so that his little brother down there wouldn¡¯t wake up. Or he will betray his promise.

 Chapter 219: Romantic Honeymoon Plans

    Tristan closed his eyes, trying to calm his mind so that his little brother down there wouldn¡¯t wake up. Or he will betray his promise.


    "You said you wanted to give me the best honeymoon experience. I¡¯m really looking forward to it, Mr. Sinclair."


    Bella held her laughter when she heard him growl.


    "I know... Oh, dear... I¡¯ve made plans," Tristan said softly, slowly opening his eyes and looking at her. "I will arrange the best Honeymoon ever for my lovely wife..."


    He stroked her hair while smiling at her. However, inside, he really regretted saying that because the idea of ??waiting any longer before he could touch her was starting to torment him.


    Bella, "..."


    Seeing how red Tristan¡¯s face was now, Bella could guess what he was thinking. She needed to change the conversation to divert his attention. If she couldn¡¯t distract him, there¡¯s a huge chance they¡¯ll end up making love tonight.


    "Tristan, let¡¯s sleep. I have to go to the office tomorrow morning; I have an important meeting with my legal team to sue Laura Kiels¡¯ buzzer." She immediately stood up from the sofa, trying to calm her loud heartbeat.


    Bella would be lying if she said she didn¡¯t want to make love to him, too. She wanted it! sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, she also wanted to experience what Tristan had planned for them¡ªa romantic night just with him, like the honeymoon she had dreamed of.


    And if Tristan continues to tease her now, she might give up waiting for their romantic honeymoon.


    Badum! Badum!


    That strange noise in her heart started to torture her again.


    Bella walked towards the walk-in closet. When she looked inside, she was shocked.


    She saw several items from her grandfather¡¯s house neatly arranged there and several new items she had never seen before. She already knew that Tristan had asked his maid to move Dax and her things to this house, but she was utterly stunned to find out he had bought many new things for her.


    Bella entered the walk-in closet. She couldn¡¯t help but faintly take a deep sigh, looking at the usually empty cupboard, which is now filled with branded items, ranging from evening gowns, glamorous dresses, and office sets from her favorite brands to home clothes that suit her style.


    The room could also accommodate a collection of bags, shoes, and accessories that she usually saw in magazines; now, they were neatly arranged in front of her.


    ¡¯Gosh! You don¡¯t need to do this, Tristan. I¡¯m not that kind of woman who cares too much about this stuff...¡¯


    "Do you like it?"


    Tristan¡¯s voice startled Bella. She turned to look towards the door and saw Tristan leaning against it, crossing his arms over his chest.


    She silently swallowed hard when her gaze fell on his strong arm muscles. And the weird thought started to fill her mind again; she wanted to place herself between his arms.


    ¡¯Gosh! Hold yourself, Bella!¡¯ she reminded herself, slightly shaking her head to push away her sultry thoughts.


    After a few seconds, Bella looked into Tristan¡¯s eyes again. "Hmm, I like it. But why did you buy me so many new things? Why didn¡¯t you just bring all the clothes and other things from my Grandpa¡¯s house?"


    Even though she didn¡¯t have many clothes and things at her Grandpa¡¯s house, there were enough for her to use. Some of the clothes are new. She bought them when she arrived in this city.


    Suddenly, Bella¡¯s mind began to fill with memories of her shopping at Mogul Mega Mall that day, the first time she met Tristan. And this shameless man followed her shopping, even giving her his credit card.


    Bella narrowed her eyes at him. ¡¯Oh, wait!! Did he deliberately trick me into using his card? And now, he also got my clothes and shoe sizes from Flyte, right??¡¯ She remembered shopping at her favorite clothing store at that time.


    Sigh!


    A faint smile crossed Bella¡¯s lips when she realized Tristan¡¯s trickery. He had been following her shopping and doing something behind her back without her realizing it. Thinking about it, she felt amused and impressed with his effort.


    "I like spending my money on the woman I love, so buying all these things is like happy medicine for me," he said in his calm voice, but Bella almost laughed hearing his choice of words.


    Bella was speechless.


    She could only vent her sarcasm in her mind, ¡¯Nice try, Mr. Tristan Shameless Sinclair... but stop using such flowery words; it makes me cringe.¡¯


    Tristan continued when he saw she didn¡¯t say anything. "And if we spend the night at Grandpa Isaac¡¯s house one day, you still have clothes there."


    Bella, "..."


    What kind of reason is that?


    Their house was a three-minute walk away, so it seemed impossible for them to spend the night there.


    Taking a deep breath, Bella approached the door and said, "My rich husband, I shall thank you for your generosity..." She smiled at him.


    His facial expression lifted as if he¡¯d just witnessed his wife open a silent invitation for him to choose his reward.


    "I think a kiss would be better than words. Can I choose a kiss instead of¡ª"


    "NO!" Bella immediately cut him off. She knew what he was thinking.


    Bella walked past him and ran into the bathroom, turning the knob and locking it. She stood by the door rubbing her heart, trying to calm its noisy heartbeat.


    Badum! Badum!


    ¡¯Arabella Donovan! Please be calm...¡¯


    Several times, Bella took a deep breath before she could drag her feet to face the mirror to check her appearance. However, what she saw shocked her; her face was red, like a boiled crab.


    She could only laugh in her heart while starting to remove her clothes. But once again, Tristan¡¯s voice from outside made her almost choke.


    "My darling wife, can we take a bath together? To save time and clean water?" He shouted, pleading.


    A faint smile framed her face as she mumbled, "How shameless!"

 Chapter 220: Help Her Clumsily

    A faint smile framed her face as she mumbled, "How shameless!"


    "My darling wife, I know you heard me. Come on, open the door for me. I promise I won¡¯t do anything... Trust me, okay?" he coaxed, making Bella want to laugh.


    ¡¯Oh my, Tristan Sinclair! Would you be able to stop yourself if you saw me without anything covering my body!?¡¯


    Bella took another deep breath before answering.


    "Tristan, NO. I believe you, but not your little brother down there." She said almost in a hushed voice, but Tristan heard her clearly.


    "Hahaha, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve learned to control it; you know how patient I am, right? Please open the door, darling..."


    Bella laughed inwardly. It was hard for her to believe he could restrain himself after waiting so many years.


    She still remembered Tristan telling her that he had never slept with anyone but her. He didn¡¯t have time to glance at other women even after she left. He buried himself in his work and even slept in the condo on the top floor of his office.


    ¡¯How could Tristan resist if he saw me now?¡¯


    Seeing her smooth body reflection in the mirror, without any linen, made Bella smile. She felt proud of herself now. She is a mother with a son, but her body still looks like she was in her early twenties.


    She managed to keep her body lean and fit after giving birth to Dax. Her body is even fitter, and she has more toned arms and abs muscles than before she was pregnant.


    Her breasts look firmer now than the last time Tristan saw her completely naked, a couple of nights before he sent the divorce lawyer. The night she and Tristan made love for the last time and conceived Dax. As a matter of fact, the last time she ever made love.


    ¡¯Well, let¡¯s say... I can trust him if he can restrain himself. But what about me? Can I restrain myself? It¡¯s been so long¡­¡¯


    Bella faintly shook her head. She couldn¡¯t trust herself, especially if she saw what was under his stomach. If she had seen it now, she would probably have had a nosebleed and abandoned their plan¡ªa romantic honeymoon.


    Gosh!


    After all these years, she still felt like the entire zoo was now rumbling in her stomach when she imagined them doing it in the past.


    At that time, Tristan may have done it because it was his duty, but for her, it was because she loved him so much, and every romantic moment remained in her heart.


    Even when she left him and tried to bury all the sweet memories with him in the deepest part of her heart, she never succeeded in erasing them; those sweet memories will never fade. They are still there.


    "Wife, don¡¯t make me worry now... I will break open the door if you don¡¯t say anything, dear." Tristan¡¯s voice sounds worried.


    Bella, "..."


    "Mr. Sinclair, my answer is still NO. ol her body heat.


    She ignored Tristan, who still tried to convince her to open the door.


    After a few seconds, she no longer heard anything; it relieved her.


    ....


    Before long,


    Bella finally finished showering to cool down her body heat.


    When she came out of the bathroom, she only wore a bathrobe and wrapped a towel around her head. She didn¡¯t see Tristan in the room.


    Soon, Bella entered the walk-in closet and chose to wear her short silk pajama set.


    She then sat at the dressing table, wanting to dry her hair with a hairdryer.


    However, before she turned on the hair dryer, she saw Tristan¡¯s reflection in the mirror, walking towards her. He looked handsome, with his hair still slightly wet. He was wearing his usual white T-shirt and black silk pajama pants.


    "Let me help you..."


    Tristan took the hairdryer from Bella¡¯s hand and helped dry her hair clumsily.


    "I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯m still stiff using this hairdryer," said Tristan, looking at Bella¡¯s reflection in the mirror. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She could only smile to respond to him.


    "Please let me know if the temperature is too hot and makes you uncomfortable¡­" Tristan said, continuing to run his fingers through her soft, wet, long hair and aiming the hair dryer at it with his other hand.


    "You did well, Tristan..."


    "Hubby!"


    She chuckled, looking at Tristan¡¯s narrowed eyes on her.


    "Dear, you better get used to calling me that, especially when Dax is around. He will protest if you keep calling me by my name."


    "Why do you insist¡­ I call you that?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh at his joyful expression.


    Looking at Tristan, who remained silent, Bella no longer asked anything. She tried to enjoy Tristan drying her hair. Every time his fingers gently brushed her hair, she felt warm inside.


    She hid her happy smile while slightly lowering her head, looking at her hand on her lap. However, not long after, his question stunned her.


    "What are you going to do about Laura Kiels¡¯ buzzer?"


    Bella slowly looked at him in the mirror. His eyes stared back at her, and his hands were still skillfully drying her hair.


    "I have enough evidence to sue them all. My legal team has already reported them all to the police. I will teach them to use their fingers properly¡ªthink before typing. I will not show them mercy, especially to all paid buzzers." She answered calmly.


    Tristan smiled proudly, hearing her explanation.


    "I agree with you. These useless people need to be punished so they won¡¯t do similar things again in the future..." Tristan said, focusing again on her hair.


    "Yeah, you are right, they all need¡ª" Suddenly, Bella¡¯s words trailed off when something crossed her mind. She narrowed her eyes, staring at Tristan, who was now busy looking at her hair.

 Chapter 221: Are You Jealous?

    She narrowed her eyes, staring at Tristan, who was now busy looking at her hair.


    After a few more seconds passed, she called him.


    "Tristan¡­" she called out urgently, her voice tinged with concern. "In the past, when Laura Kiels¡¯ buzzer created romantic articles or comments on social media about you and her, why did you never stop them all? You seem to let the gossip spread...and enjoy it!"


    Tristan¡¯s hand, which was in the air, froze as if time had stopped. His eyes widened slightly, a mixture of shock and guilt flashing, but he didn¡¯t say anything.


    Before long, Bella was the one who broke the silence.


    "So, you enjoyed it when A-Nezt thought you two were dating?" Bella said casually, but her heart felt slightly sour hearing her words. She lowered her eyes, avoiding Tristan¡¯s gaze.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to answer her but instead smiled, looking at his wife, who lowered her gaze. He turned off the hair dryer and put it on the vanity table. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Your hair is done..." He gently scooped her into his arms and carried her to their bed, his eyes filled with love looking at her.


    Bella was caught off guard; suddenly, she was in his arms. She crossed her arms around his neck and smiled back at him.


    After Tristan put her on the bed, Bella slipped under the covers while looking at Tristan, climbed up next to her, and joined her under the cover. Their eyes were still locked on each other before he pulled her closer.


    They were so close that Bella felt Tristan¡¯s every warm breath brush her face. She blinked a few times, waiting for him to say something.


    "Ms. Sinclair, are you jealous because of the rumors?"


    Bella was stunned. She didn¡¯t expect him to ask her such a question. A faint smile slowly appeared on her lips as she shook her head slightly.


    "You seem so confident, Mr. Sinclair. Even though I used to love you so much, I have not cared about you for even a bit since we separated, and I thanked Dax for that," she said casually.


    Tristan felt bitter after hearing her words but couldn¡¯t say anything because he knew why she felt that way.


    Looking at his miserable gaze, Bella felt amused; she continued, "So, you are wrong, Mr. Sinclair... I am not jealous at all. I just want to know your reason for letting the news spread like wildfire."


    "You know what, darling? Your words had successfully hit me right in my heart..." he said, leaning closer and kissing her forehead lovingly.


    Bella, "..."


    After he looks into her eyes again, he asks curiously, "How about now? Did you start to love me again?"


    Even now, Bella has returned to him, Tristan never hears Bella express her deep feelings or say, "I love you..."


    "I won¡¯t answer until you tell me your reason," Bella playfully teased, her finger tracing along his delicate nose with a grin. "So, spill it first, sir..."


    Tristan chuckled at the sight of his adorable wife, resisting the urge to kiss her once more. He restrained himself, not wanting to risk her anger, especially when he saw her genuinely curious expression.


    "Alright, if my wife is so eager to know, I¡¯ll be honest now...I will tell the truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God," Tristan said, his hand finding her cheek and stroking it gently.


    Bella remained silent.


    "Well, it¡¯s just that... I want to ensure my mother doesn¡¯t attempt any more schemes to cause trouble; you know what I mean, right? You know well how cunningly evil she can be."


    When he saw Bella nod, he continued, "So, I asked Max not to intervene and let the gossip news spread. That¡¯s my reason. My only reason. So¡­My dear wife, are you satisfied with my reason?"


    Bella brushed off his playful question, responding only with a smile.


    In truth, Bella had already figured out Tristan¡¯s motive. He wouldn¡¯t have allowed the rumors to spread if it didn¡¯t serve his purposes. Apparently, he wanted to end his mother¡¯s interference in his love life, so he let the rumors persist.


    ¡¯Wait! His mother... Jessica Sinclair...¡¯ The mere thought of Jessica Sinclair made Bella¡¯s stomach churn. ¡¯Jessica Sinclair, I hope you¡¯ll stop bothering me. Perhaps with age, you¡¯ll gain wisdom and serenity...¡¯


    Despite having borne a Sinclair heir, Bella still worries that Jessica might despise and reject her. She knew Jessica harbored a hidden agenda against her. Jessica resented her so much that she sought to expel her from the Sinclair family because she was the only person with knowledge of a truth that, if published correctly, could tarnish Jessica¡¯s image forever.


    Bella silently sighed, burying her face in Tristan¡¯s firm chest.


    ...


    Silence.


    Tristan waited for Bella to speak, but after several minutes passed, she made no sound or movement in his embrace.


    "Are you asleep?" he whispered softly, fearing to disturb her sleep.


    "Hmm..." Bella murmured, barely audibly. Feeling drowsy and disinclined to continue the conversation. She was wary of revealing her thoughts about his mother.


    She knew it wouldn¡¯t be easy for Tristan to defy his mother for her and Dax¡¯s sake. She didn¡¯t want to burden him with her knowledge about his mother. So she decided to keep it to herself until the right moment presented itself or perhaps take the secret to her grave.


    "Goodnight, darling..." Tristan whispered, embracing her tightly before closing his eyes.


    ****


    The Next day.


    The black Rolls Roys Phantom stopped in front of the Quantum Capital Lobby.


    "My wife, I know you will be busy all day. But please don¡¯t forget to eat lunch and call me every hour, okay?"


    Tristan was still holding Bella¡¯s hand. He seemed reluctant to let her out of the car.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but smile at his words. How many times has he said that?


    "Hmm, I will. You too...don¡¯t forget your lunch."


    "Sure! As long as you call me, I won¡¯t forget."


    Bella, "..."

 Chapter 222: Call Me Every Hour!

    "Sure! As long as you call me, I won¡¯t forget." Tristan said.


    Bella, "..."


    "Okay, can you release my hand? I¡¯ll be late for my meeting if you don¡¯t let me go now¡­"


    Tristan leaned closer and kissed her lightly before he signaled his bodyguard, sitting next to the driver, to open the car door for Bella.


    Bella quickly exited the car, afraid Tristan might try to stop her again or step out of his vehicle.


    This morning, she had actually declined Tristan¡¯s offer to drive her to the office, but he persisted. She had no choice but to agree, with one condition: he must not leave his car.


    Bella was gripped with deep worry. She was not yet ready for her relationship with Tristan to be exposed to the world, especially not in her office. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The media¡¯s relentless pursuit of gossip news and constant presence in the Quantum Capital building, including the caf¨¦ or lobby lounge, only added to her anxiety.


    The longer time before people knew about her relationship with Tristan, the better because she still needed to resolve many things, especially about Laura Kiels and her family. Once these two issues were sorted, she would allow Tristan to make an announcement.


    However, when they were about to leave the house earlier, Bella was taken aback when she saw Tristan¡¯s luxurious car. She had expected him to drive her in his usual, modest vehicle, and this unexpected change left her perplexed.


    When she protested, he stated, "My dear wife, I just want to let everyone know that Arabella Donovan already has a man, and her man is a big shot. So, they can back off if they dare to approach you..."


    His ability to spin words into excuses made her feel amused and speechless simultaneously.


    ...


    Bella quickened her steps as she walked toward the lobby. From afar, she saw Leo standing inside, near the entrance.


    Leo looked casual, wearing a white slim-fit shirt and navy trousers that hugged his long legs. His simple attire did not diminish his attractiveness, prompting a few women nearby to steal glances at him.


    They were all curious to see Leo standing near the entrance, holding two cups of coffee. This only heightened their interest in who the lucky woman would receive his coffee!?


    Three women seated on the lounge sofa whispered among themselves while stealing glances at Leo.


    "Look... Look at that guy with the white shirt over there; he looks charming."


    "Oh my! Why have I never seen him before? Is he new!?"


    "Do you know which division he¡¯s in?"


    "I¡¯m not sure. But judging by his attire, he¡¯s probably a staff member at the management office."


    "You mean Quantum Capital?"


    "Yeah, obviously! I hope he¡¯s on our team¡¯s entertainment division."


    "Ugh, can you guess who he¡¯s waiting for? Looks like he¡¯s been standing there for three minutes."


    "Let¡¯s approach him and ask his name," one woman giggled, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Leo.


    "Let¡¯s go. I hope I can snag some coffee from him," another woman responded.


    "Hahaha, you can have the coffee. I just need his cell phone number."


    The two women rolled their eyes.


    Before the three women could rise from their seats, they froze in place upon seeing a beautiful woman walking toward the man. The man also looked at her with a smile slowly appearing on his face.


    Her beauty amazed them; even their company¡¯s top ex-actress, Laura Kiels, couldn¡¯t rival her.


    "Is she a new actress in our company?"


    "Maybe she¡¯ll replace Laura Kiels?"


    "Wait! Why is she smiling at that guy¡ª"


    They were utterly surprised when they saw the man handing coffee to the beautiful woman.


    ...


    "Morning..." Leo greeted Bella, offering a coffee latte.


    "Thank you, Leo."


    Bella took her coffee as she continued walking towards the executive elevator. She spotted Sam standing beside it, waiting for them.


    "You look in a terrific mood, Boss. And as pretty and charming as always," Leo remarked as he walked alongside Bella.


    Bella didn¡¯t respond, just giving him a glance and a faint but sincere smile at his compliment.


    "Boss, if you wouldn¡¯t mind me asking, why did Boss Tristan drive you again? I thought you refused him driving you to the office because you worried someone might recognize him," Leo asked curiously.


    When Leo finds out that Sam hasn¡¯t picked up Bella, he is surprised and curious. He had assumed Bella would drive herself to work, knowing how busy Sam had been lately. But he was wrong.


    "Hmm¡­ about that, you may ask Tristan yourself whenever you have a chance to meet him..." Bella said casually to Leo before stepping into the elevator.


    She stood at the back, observing Leo and Sam ahead of her.


    Later,


    Her gaze lingered on Sam.


    It had been two weeks since she asked Sam to set up a branch of the Sentinel Network in the country, and she had yet to hear directly from Sam about its progress.


    "Sam, any updates on the development progress of the Sentinel Network?"


    "Yes, Boss. I¡¯ve managed to invite some of my former teammates from my special forces. They have retired from any army¡¯s actions. However, their skills are still very capable of helping me at Sentinel Network. They started their activities last week. Boss Jack also sent me two assistants from the head office to help me manage while I accompany you outside the office."


    Bella felt proud hearing about Sam¡¯s work managing his team at the Sentinel Network, even though he was also busy looking after her and following her to Nova City.


    "We still have insufficient skillful people to run the Sentinel Network at its maximum level; it will only operate smoothly in the next two months. But Boss, don¡¯t worry. For a small mission, I have formed a core team..." Sam explained everything to Bella until, finally, the elevator reached the nineteenth floor.


    "I see. Keep me posted, Sam." Bella walked out of the elevator, followed by Sam and Leo.


    However,


    She stopped in front of her office door and turned to Sam with a thoughtful expression.

 Chapter 223: She Knows What Happens in East City

    Bella stopped in front of her office door and turned to Sam with a thoughtful expression.


    "Sam, I need you to spend more time on the Sentinel Network and less time following me around. Uhm¡­You know what, you only need to focus on the Sentinel Network. Assign someone you trust the most as my guard," Bella ordered.


    Sam and Leo were surprised to hear that.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Boss. With all due respect... I can¡¯t do that," Sam immediately and firmly refused her order.


    "I know that the Sentinel Network is important. But protecting you is my top priority. I don¡¯t want anything bad to happen to you. So, even though I¡¯m busy with the Sentinel Network, I can¡¯t leave my main task behind. Trust me, Boss. I¡¯ll manage." He continues.


    Bella was impressed to hear Sam¡¯s professional answer. Still, she always felt guilty whenever she saw his incredible commanding and managing talents wasted as a guard and driver.


    "Sam, I¡¯m not a big shot like my husband, who needs dozens of bodyguards to shadow him. You don¡¯t need to worry too much about my safety. I can take care of myself. Just assign someone capable of fighting to be my driver..."


    "But¡ª"


    Bella raised her hand to stop him from continuing his words.


    "Come on, Sam. If you think of me as your Boss, follow my orders," she strictly ordered him.


    Even though Sam didn¡¯t think this was a good idea, he had no choice but to agree with Bella.


    "Okay, Boss. I will appoint a trusted and capable person to look after you. But," Sam looked Bella in the eyes as if he wanted to tell her she couldn¡¯t refuse his request. "If you visit another city, I¡¯ll come along!"


    Looking at Sam¡¯s concern and how much he cares about her, Bella feels her heart warm. She smiles at him and nods, "Sure. Thank you, Sam..."


    After Bella dismissed Sam, she turned to Leo, who looked at her with concern. She could guess what he was thinking then, but she said nothing to him and just walked into her office.


    Leo slightly chuckled as he followed her inside. He stood before her office desk.


    "Are you sure you don¡¯t want Sam to be your driver? Jack assigned him to keep you safe here, Bella," he said with concern.


    After Bella put her bag away, she took off her coat and hung it on the corner hatrack before sitting in her CEO chair. She looked at Leo with a faint smile slowly spreading across her lips.


    "Yes, I¡¯m positive. Tristan has asked me, and I have accepted, to let him drive me around. You already know how protective he has been lately, right?" she said while leaning against her seat.


    "Hahaha, of course, I know. Boss Tristan is a loving husband. I still couldn¡¯t wrap myself around the fact that he even left his crucial international business trip just to come back to you when he heard you were hospitalized," Leo couldn¡¯t help but laugh when he remembered what happened in Nova City.


    "Yeah... That¡¯s why Sam would be useless if he stuck to becoming my driver," Bella sighed while opening her laptop. "Such a waste of talent... to let Samuel Brown, a solid ex-special force and a fully gifted project manager, drive for me."


    "You are right about that, Boss. I¡¯m sure Boss Tristan will assign his best people to protect his darling wife."


    Bella was surprised to hear Leo¡¯s remarks. But he is right.


    Even though Tristan had not yet said anything about it, Bella was sure she would hear from Tristan about it in a few more days.


    She shook her head while smiling at Leo, "Alright, let¡¯s stop talking about me. What time do we have a meeting about Stellar Entertainment?"


    Leo glanced at his watch before he answered, "You have 20 minutes to do something else before the meeting starts."


    Bella nodded slowly and asked Leo to leave. She needed to check her schedule for the week.


    However, before she touched her laptop, she took out her cell phone and stood by the glass wall overlooking the busy street below.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, she called her Grandpa¡¯s number. She didn¡¯t have a chance to call him last night. And this morning, she was worried about calling him when Tristan and Dax were around.


    "Grandpa, good morning..." Bella immediately greeted Isaac Donovan when the line connected.


    "Bella, morning dear. Have you guys arrived in the Capital?"


    "Yes. We arrived last night. And I¡¯m so surprised to know you are in the East City. Why didn¡¯t you tell me about it, Grandpa? What happened there?" Bella asked. She couldn¡¯t hide how worried she was now.


    She continued her sentence after waiting, but her grandfather didn¡¯t say anything.


    Bella was increasingly convinced that something was happening there. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, I know my father wants to set me up with his friend." Bella smiled when she heard her grandfather take a deep breath. She continued, "...but I wonder why they called you back to the East City? And what made you rush to go back there!?"


    This is what makes Bella confused. If her father was planning to match her, he should ask her grandfather to take her too, right? But he didn¡¯t do that? Or, if her father couldn¡¯t call her because she blocked his number, he simply called Grandpa¡¯s phone to talk to her.


    Bella felt something fishy happening there.


    Silence fell as Isaac seemed reluctant to tell what happened in the East. He had plans to settle things here before he flew back to the Capital and talked to her.


    But it seems he can¡¯t make his granddaughter wait.


    After deep breathing, Isaac finally answered, "You are right; your father already arranged a marriage for you. I guess you already know who he is?"


    "Yes, I know," Bella answered. Stefan had already given her the old man¡¯s identity, and just reading the person¡¯s profile was enough to make her head spin.

 Chapter 224: We Need To Talk

    Another long, deep breath was heard before Isaac explained everything to Bella.


    "My Dear Bella, don¡¯t be surprised. Your father and uncle have accepted the proposal through a business collaboration with fantastic value..."


    Bella was shocked.


    "Don¡¯t worry about anything, dear. I¡¯ll handle the matter here and return to the Capital in a few days. We¡¯ll talk about it in detail later..."


    Bella opened her mouth but failed to make a sound. She was too angry with her parents.


    How could they do that to her?


    They hadn¡¯t told her directly about the engagement, but they had already agreed. They¡¯ve even made a deal!


    ¡¯Do they think of me as something that can be sold?¡¯ Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For this matter, Bella decided not to take it easy. She can¡¯t let them continue to plot nasty things behind her. It¡¯s time for her to do something.


    Bella will no longer consider them a part of her family because she has lost respect for her father and uncles for what they are doing now.


    "Bella, my dear, are you still there?"


    She snapped out of her thoughts, hearing her grandpa¡¯s voice from the other end. Her grip on her cell phone tightened before she responded.


    "Yes, I¡¯m here. Grandpa, we will continue to talk about it when you return," Bella said calmly, even though she felt like a hurricane in her heart.


    "Alright, I will settle the matter here faster and fly there. I need to talk to you about this matter directly, and I also need to meet my little Dax. He must be missing me, right¡­?"


    Bella¡¯s smile gradually appears after hearing her grandpa¡¯s last words.


    "Oh, yeah. Dax definitely misses you, Grandpa. When he woke up this morning, he immediately asked to visit you, but he was slightly disappointed when he knew you were not home."


    Isaac was stunned.


    He no longer feels the need to continue to talk with Bella about anything but ends the call to make a video call to his great-grandson.


    ****


    Leo entered his office and headed to his desk.


    However, his step stopped when he heard Dana¡¯s voice from the seating area.


    "Si-Sir, I¡¯m sorry, I need to talk to you¡­"


    Leo turned towards his secretary and was shocked to see her terrible expression. The cheerfulness and calm he used to see through her eyes were no longer there; only fear and confusion could be seen.


    Curious to know what had happened, Leo immediately walked towards the seating area and sat across from her. After he placed his coffee on the table, he looked her in the eyes.


    "Everything alright, Dana!?"


    Leo knew something must have happened to her from her expression to make her show an expression he had never seen before.


    Even though Leo had only known Dana recently, they had worked so intensely over the past two months. He learned a lot more about her.


    Leo knew this girl was always calm and cheerful. She worked diligently and never complained, even under pressure. Because of this, he began to like her independent character and intelligence.


    "S-Sir... Something happened in my village, and my parents asked me to go home immediately."


    Dana tried to explain calmly, but her trembling voice couldn¡¯t hide her worry.


    She didn¡¯t want to go home but couldn¡¯t avoid it because this was urgent, and she had no choice but to ask permission to leave for a few days.


    Leo was surprised by Dana¡¯s words; he slowly bent forward, both elbows resting on his thighs while cupping his hands tightly. He looked at her calmly, waiting for her to finish her words.


    "S-Sir, I know you are so busy lately, and it¡¯s not right for me to ask for leave for a few days for personal matters. But this is really important. So, I... I... need to take a leave for¡ª"


    "You can leave... It¡¯s alright," Leo suddenly chimed in when he saw her beautiful brown eyes blur. She was about to cry. How could he reject her when he saw such a sad expression?


    Dana was surprised at how fast Leo gave her permission. She blinked a few times to make sure she didn¡¯t hear wrong.


    Before she could clarify, Leo continued, "It¡¯s fine. I can handle everything here. Linda and Billy could assist me during your absence. So no need to worry about your work." Leo smiled, trying to make her feel better.


    Dana stood up from her seat and bowed ninety degrees to Leo like Koreans bowing respectfully to their elders. She feels so grateful.


    "Thank you, sir. Thank you. I really appreciate this. I promise I will sort out my family¡¯s problems faster and come back here the day after tomorrow."


    Leo gasped in surprise when he saw how she bowed to him. He felt amused. He had never witnessed a woman do this to him.


    "Ha ha ha, Dana, please stop doing that. I¡¯m not your elder or mafia boss to accept your bow. Please sit back..."


    Leo leaned back on the chair to sit comfortably while rubbing his forehead to stifle his laughter.


    "Oops, sorry, sir. I was too excited to hear you give me permission. I thought you wouldn¡¯t..." She said while sitting again in her seat.


    Dana knew Leo was very busy managing for both Stellar Entertainment and Celebes Energy. In the past two weeks, she helped him work nonstop preparing reports for their CEO, Ms. Donovan. Even on weekends, she still worked to assist him.


    "Dana, I told you. Don¡¯t worry about it. Someone will do it while you are on leave. You can go home with ease, and if you need anything, just let me know..."


    "Thank you, sir..."


    Leo took a deep sigh while looking her in the eyes. He didn¡¯t rush to say anything but fed his eyes with her beauty.


    "Dana," he calls her so gently, surprised Dana. "Stop calling me that if it¡¯s just the two of us, especially when we are not discussing work."


    She feels like her knees become weak, hearing how lovely he calls her name. "Ye-Yes..."

 Chapter 225: Feeling Annoyed?

    Dana feels like her knees become weak, hearing how lovely he calls her name. "Ye-Yes..."


    She tried hard to hide her feelings from him. She didn¡¯t want Leo to know what was on her mind at that moment. She liked him but never dared say it, afraid he would fire her.


    "Perfect!" Leo smiled when he saw that Dana was no longer tense but looked as calm as usual. "Dana, if you¡¯re uncomfortable answering, you don¡¯t need to. Why are your parents suddenly asking you to come back?"


    Leo was curious to know what happened in her family.


    Dana clenched her fists tightly. She felt too embarrassed to mention the matter. But, seeing his curious gaze, her mouth betrayed her.


    "My father called. He said my mother was hospitalized, but when I asked my little brother, he said¡­ no. Mom is fine. But¡ª" she pauses, lowering her head, unable to meet his gaze.


    "But what!?" Leo couldn¡¯t help but ask when he saw her seem reluctant to continue.


    "My father actually called me home to let me meet my future husband. I mean, my father set me up for an arranged marriage¡ª" she said, unable to continue, feeling embarrassed to tell him this.


    Leo was surprised to hear that but immediately adjusted his surprise with a calm expression. He said, "I see. Alright, you can go now. If you need my help, don¡¯t hesitate to contact me. I will try my best to help..."


    "Thank you very much, Leo. I appreciate it." Dana couldn¡¯t stay there any longer; she felt embarrassed and hurt because Leo wasn¡¯t angry when he heard about her forced marriage. She excused herself and left in a hurry.


    Several seconds passed since Dana closed the door. However, Leo had not yet moved from his seat. His eyes still stared at the tightly shut door, and he felt something that he had never felt when it came to anything Dana said.


    "Wait¡­Why do I suddenly feel annoyed? Is it about what Dana just said? I get annoyed hearing she was engaged!?"


    The corners of his lips lifted slightly into a sour smile, hearing his own absurd-sounding thoughts.


    "Damn! How could she stir my heart like this? Impossible!"


    Leo laughed as he stood up and headed to his desk to finish his work.


    He started preparing some documents to bring to the intense meeting to discuss matters regarding Stellar Entertainment with their legal department and the newly appointed CEO of Stellar Entertainment.


    News about Stellar Entertainment is no longer trending on the internet. It has been replaced by news about Laura Kiels, which is now in the top ten on almost all news channels.


    A famous gossip website, , has just released news about Laura Kiels¡¯s terrible and immature attitude in an exclusive nightclub. Also, a series of photos and videos of her obviously angry and very condescending at a server in a high-class restaurant have made Laura Kiels the target of A-Netz.


    What was most surprising was how quickly the police handled this case. In just a few days, several articles circulated reporting that several buzzers, who had slandered and published multiple hoaxes about Stellar Entertainment, had begun to be arrested.


    The arrest news worried some A-Netz. They are now more careful about sharing hoax news and slander comments regarding Stellar Entertainment.


    ... Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella and Leo¡¯s meeting with the legal team and the new CEO didn¡¯t take long.


    They only discussed the legal process for people who defamed the company and the legal stance they would take towards these individuals.


    Bella wanted their team and the related law enforcement officials on the case to have enough compelling evidence before the perpetrators were prosecuted under the applicable law. She didn¡¯t want the public to view Stellar Entertainment as an arrogant company.


    Still, she also didn¡¯t like the vile people to see it as an easy target for slandering. In the meeting, Bella also underlined that the company would not need any apology from Laura Kiels and her people. She needed to teach these wicked people not to use their fingers before their brains.


    Apart from that, they also discussed Stellar Entertainment¡¯s big plans for the future. They will focus on producing dramas and films in the future. Managing actresses and actors is no longer their top priority.


    After the meeting was over, Bella went straight to her office. She needed to call Tristan. He had been texting her a lot during the meeting.


    [Bella] I¡¯m done. Can I call you now?


    She texted Tristan while walking toward her office. However, an incoming video call appeared on her phone before she could reach it.


    After placing her cell phone on the cell phone stand on the table, she immediately received the video call.


    Bella saw Tristan sitting in his office. His charming face, as usual, made Bella feel her heartbeat quicken.


    "Hi, Tristan... I¡¯m sorry I was late replying to your text. I just finished my meeting," said Bella as soon as the video was connected.


    "It looks like my beautiful wife forgot about her husband while in her office, huh...!?"


    Tristan shrugged with a sad expression, causing Bella to silently gulp when she remembered she had forgotten something important¡ªcalling him by his name.


    Gosh!


    "Have I? Oh¡­Sorry...hubby, I..uh..never been in this position¡­often," Bella immediately corrected her words while scolding herself in her heart. "You seem so relaxed in the office. No meetings?" she asked, trying to distract him.


    Tristan smiled happily before responding to her question.


    "I just finished my meeting. After lunch, I will be heading to another one. How about you?"


    "I do have a meeting after lunch, but only an online one with Jack and an internal one with Leo." She must discuss Stefan¡¯s arrangement with Leo and call Jack to report her progress.


    "Okay, you have to get your lunch now. It¡¯s already thirty minutes past lunchtime. I also have to get ready to leave..."


    Bella automatically nods. Then she¡¯s asking him, "How about your lunch?"

 Chapter 226: Blocking Their Way

    Bella automatically nods. Then she¡¯s asking him, "How about your lunch?"


    "I just finished mine before calling you." Tristan looked into Bella¡¯s eyes before continuing, "My wife, I wish you were here to accompany me. Eating alone in my office feels miserable."


    Bella chuckled, "If I go to your office, it¡¯s the same as telling your parents and the public about our relationship..."


    Tristan¡¯s face turned stiff hearing that.


    "Yeah, you¡¯re right. I will handle my parents immediately. Please be a little patient, dear..."


    "There¡¯s no rush, Mr. Sinclair. I also have to deal with my family matters before we tell them everything about us and Dax." Bella smiled at him to ease his stress. She knew Tristan was a little stressed whenever they talked about his parents.


    "Thank you, Ms. Sinclair. Alright, talk to you later. Love you..."


    She smiled at him before ending the video call.


    ...


    Not long after, a knock at her office door could be heard.


    "Yes, come in..." Bella called out. When the door swung open, she saw Leo appear behind it.


    "Hi, Boss. Let¡¯s have lunch. There is a new private Japanese restaurant near the building. I heard their food is incredible. We can walk there."


    Bella¡¯s eyes lit up when she heard Leo mention a Japanese restaurant. She had wanted to eat Udon since they were in Nova City, and she couldn¡¯t refuse his offer.


    "Give me two minutes," Bella said. She immediately changed her high heels to sneakers. After tidying up some documents on her desk, she left.


    Bella doesn¡¯t like wearing high heels after giving birth to Dax. She feels her feet and calves hurt if she wears those beautiful heels for more than three hours. Wearing flat shoes or sneakers is her first option now.


    If her best friend Harper saw her now, Harper would probably complain a lot because her style is no longer the same as when she was still in New York, working for a year at the RDF Group. She used to wear feminine and stylish clothes, and Harper greatly influenced her fashion choices.


    Now, Bella prefers comfortable clothing over style. She wore black trousers and a silk shirt of the same color because they were comfortable in warm weather.


    ¡¯Gosh! Why do I suddenly miss Harper? I hope she can make time to visit us soon...¡¯


    Bella¡¯s smile slowly spread across her lips as she followed Leo, walking before her.


    They walked on the pedestrian path between Quantum Capital and the building next to it, heading to the park behind their building. Trees are neatly lined along the route, which looks shady even though the sun is shining brightly.


    Bella glanced at Leo, walking beside her. She was impressed with him. He¡¯d only lived here a few months but had already found a place to eat that he could recommend.


    "Leo, how did you find this place?" Even she, who had always come to this area, had never known about the restaurant.


    "I heard from my secretary. This Japanese restaurant specializes in Udon. It opened in this city around two years ago and has been going viral on social media since then. If I¡¯m not mistaken, the chef is Japanese. I¡¯ve tried it, and it tastes terrific. You will like it..." Leo explained.


    Bella¡¯s eyes lit up at the thought of the most delicious Udon she wanted.


    But they had been walking for almost five minutes, and she had yet to see the Japanese restaurant before them.


    Now, Bella regretted not having a proper breakfast this morning. She only had warm milk and a piece of garlic butter bread.


    "Leo, how many more minutes until we arrive at the restaurant?" Bella glanced at him, and she started to feel impatient.


    "Five more minutes," Leo chuckled when he saw her walking like a snail. "If you walk faster, we¡¯ll probably arrive faster than that¡­"


    Bella was speechless. She gave him a get-lost kind of gaze, feeling defeated by him.


    "Tsk! I thought you liked to walk. That¡¯s why I said this is walking distance for you," Leo said when she saw her glare at him. He continued to walk in the pedestrian path under the shady trees, ignoring her annoyance.


    "Why did you say it¡¯s close to our building?" Bella protested.


    They had already walked across the large park, and only now did she realize that the location of the restaurant was across the park, not right behind their building. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leo could only flash a grin at her and walk faster ahead of her.


    "If I knew it was this far, we¡¯d better drive. Why torture me to walk in the middle of the day?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but continue venting her anger. "Gosh! I might faint the moment we arrive there..."


    "Oh, come on, it¡¯s only a ten-minute walk, not ten miles." He laughs before continuing. "...I heard from Sam that you work out every morning. This is very easy for you, isn¡¯t it?"


    "It¡¯s not because of the distance, but because I¡¯m hungry," Bella faintly said, increasing her pace. If she had known it would be this far away, she would have chosen delivery instead of going out.


    "No worries, boss, the restaurant is just at the end of this path..."


    Bella felt exhausted talking to the foolish Leo. This man could only make her energy run thin.


    She turned her gaze ahead, didn¡¯t say anything, but continued to increase her pace.


    However,


    Not even a minute later, three burly men dressed all in black appeared a few meters away from them. The three walked side by side as if deliberately blocking their way. Their steps looked relaxed as they waited for them to get closer.


    Bella and Leo had no room to keep going. They stopped three meters away from them, making Leo feel alert. But he tried to stay calm and pulled Bella¡¯s hand to stand behind him.


    "Excuse me, could you please¡ª" Before Leo finished his words, one of the men in front of them pointed at Bella with his index finger.


    The man smiled, revealing his yellow teeth before saying in a low, husky tone, "Hey, beauty, you should follow us..."

 Chapter 227: Who Sent These Gangsters?

    The man smiled, revealing his yellow teeth before saying in a low, husky tone, "Hey, beauty, you should follow us..."


    Bella frowned, looking at the man in the middle who pointed at her. She saw the red rose tattoo on his neck; she remembered never crossing paths with this man.


    Then, she turned to see two men. They also had similar expressions and vibes, like the man in the middle; they all looked like gangsters. They were not good people.


    Her fist tightened. She tried to think faster about who sent these people to arrest her. Jessica? Laura Kiels? Only these two people appeared in her mind.


    Leo glanced over his shoulder.


    "Do you know them?" he asked in his low tone.


    "Nope. This is the first time I see them."


    Leo turned his gaze to the three men in front of them. He sent a cold gaze to them.


    "Who the heck are you to ask her to go with you?" Leo asked in an angry tone. "Move, or you¡¯ll end up in the hospital!"


    He became even more furious when he saw them completely ignore him. They only looked at Bella with their fascinated gaze.


    "This is my last warning! Move now, or I will send you guys straight to your coffin if you are still standing there!" Leo¡¯s eyes twitched in annoyance


    He was not scared of them¡ªhe had a black belt in Taekwondo and Muay Thai and had two years of extensive combat training in Borneo¡¯s jungle. There were only three people, even though their body size was more significant than his. And, if they were also good at fighting hand-on-hand, he is very confident that, at least, he could incapacitate them long enough for him and Bella to get reinforcement.


    Leo¡¯s eyes were still fixed on them. After hearing his words, he thought the three of them would be afraid or run like they had tails between their legs, but he almost choked when they laughed at him.


    ¡¯Fuck! How dare they mock me? It seemed they had indeed chosen to meet their ancestors. Good! Then I will grant your wish!¡¯


    Bella leaned closer to Leo and whispered, "Are you sure you can handle all three of them?"


    "No worries, Boss. I will take care of them. You just need to stand beside me," Leo answered her in a whisper.


    "Alright, Well, then I¡¯ll be counting on you..." Bella patted his shoulder while looking at the three men, still laughing loudly.


    "Bwa ha ha ha¡­"


    "Ha ha ha¡­ What the fuck!? A pretty man like you dares to fight us?"


    "Pft..." Bella almost laughed out loud at the gangster¡¯s words, calling Leo a ¡¯Pretty Man.¡¯ But she shut her mouth tightly when she saw Leo¡¯s face turn dark as if a dark cloud was hanging from his head.


    "Little man," the man with the red rose tattoo on his neck shouted, "We have nothing to do with you. Please get out of this place. Our business is only with this pretty lady. She needs to follow us now¡­"


    "Ha ha ha¡­ Yes¡­ Yes¡­ What my senior brother said is true. Get lost! You don¡¯t have to prove your strength because I can break your tiny legs with only a single move."


    "Run before I disfigure your pretty face, dude!"


    "Yeah yeah¡­.Quick, get out of our way before I change my mind, or you¡¯ll become a disabled person for the rest of your life!"


    Leo clenched his fists tightly, hearing their insulting words. This was his first time facing such shameless people. His calm demeanor suddenly changed as if all his blood was boiling, rushing under his facial skin.


    There is only one choice for these lowly people: They won¡¯t be able to use their legs anymore!


    Bella moved closer to Leo. In her low voice, she suggested, "Leo, are you sure you can fight all three of them? If you can¡¯t fight them now, let¡¯s run. My running speed is quite fast." However, Leo ignored her.


    "I¡¯ve allowed you guys to leave, but you seem to have chosen to be sent straight to hell. Okay... Good... Good... I will grant your request..." Leo said with a sarcastic smile.


    Leo couldn¡¯t believe these lowly gangsters dared challenge him. He had no reason to prolong this; he needed to end it quickly. He pulled the sleeves of his white shirt up to his elbows, revealing his pale, muscular arms.


    He glanced over his shoulder, "Bella, move behind!" his chilly expression surprised Bella.


    "Hmm... be careful," said Bella. She had never seen Leo angry like this. However, she had a significant worry: Leo would get hurt, and she still doubted he could do martial arts.


    "You stop talking! Come here. I¡¯ll break your little hands!" shouted the man with the red rose tattoo, followed by the laughter of his other two friends.


    "Ha ha ha... Senior brother, let me take care of him."


    "Let me... Do that!" Another man shouted.


    Bella, who watched these three people and Leo exchange words, became impatient. She wanted to silence them with slippers because of their insulting words to Leo, but she couldn¡¯t do that. Leo warned her not to do anything but to wait behind while suppressing her anger.


    "Don¡¯t ask for forgiveness later because I won¡¯t grant it..." Leo chuckled. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He moved quickly towards the man with a red rose tattoo on his neck. With a flying kick that landed on his chest, the big man was thrown back several meters and fell with his buttocks against the stone path.


    "AAAAARGH¡­" A cry of pain resounded through the air as the man with a red rose tattoo landed on the ground, clutching his chest. He had never felt this nameless pain before, as if someone had just broken his ribs. Before he could say anything, fresh blood spurted out of his mouth.


    "Cough..." His bloodshot eyes stared at Leo in rage. He shouted, "F-fuck¡­you, how dare you¡ª" the man can¡¯t continue his words as another blood spurts out of his mouth.


    "Cough! Cough!"

 Chapter 228: I Will Blow Her Head!

    The two men beside the man with the red rose tattoo were shocked beyond words, seeing their brother lying on the ground, unable to lift his head.


    Feeling angry about the situation, the two gangsters looked at Leo, who was one meter away from them. He looked calm, with a sinister smile, looking at them.


    "You bastard, I will kill you!!" They both shouted. When they tried to attack Leo, they saw him moving so fast that their eyes couldn¡¯t catch up. It shocked them.


    Leo sent a powerful kick toward his target¡¯s knee with his right foot. Another loud crack sounded, like the sound of bones being broken, followed by a roar of pain.


    "AARGH!!" The man was now slumped on the ground, unable to move his legs.


    The last person panicked; he took out his dagger and stabbed Leo in the back when Leo was busy kicking his friends.


    However, before the man¡¯s sharp dagger touched Leo¡¯s skin, Leo turned back as if he knew the danger from behind. He swatted the man¡¯s hand away with a swift movement, hard enough to send the dagger flying a few meters from them.


    Leo threw a quick and forceful punch at the man¡¯s face. His groan filled the air as he stumbled back several steps. He felt an intense pain on his face, and his hands instinctively went to the spot where Leo¡¯s fist had hit him.


    "Y-You bastard... How dare¡ª" The man¡¯s voice trailed off when he felt a metallic taste in his mouth, like the taste of fresh blood. "Cough¡­" he spat out blood and how shocked he was when three of his teeth fell to the ground.


    The man¡¯s suffering was not over when Leo¡¯s powerful kick landed on his knee. The sound of his knee cracking made the man fall to the ground while howling in pain, once again disturbing the silence of the place.


    Three pairs of eyes stared at Leo in horror. They never expected that this pale-faced man was a martial artist. With his fast and robust movements, he could defeat them all in a pretty short time.


    Their minds were now filled with countless questions: Who is he? Why is he so strong? Is this man Arabella Donovan¡¯s head of the bodyguard squad?


    ...


    It wasn¡¯t just the three gangsters who were shocked to see Leo, but Bella, too. She was surprised to learn that Leo actually knew how to fight. Not only did he know the moves, but he also had the power.


    ¡¯Since when did he know how to fight?¡¯ Bella wondered, narrowing her eyes at Leo¡¯s back, standing a few meters before her. She saw him trying to continue torturing three miserable gangsters. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Bella¡¯s heart jolted when she heard Leo shout.


    "Are you okay, Boss?" Leo asked without looking at her, his eyes still fixed on the three pathetic men lying on the ground in a miserable condition.


    "I¡¯m fine..." Bella answered hurriedly.


    "Do you want to know who sent them?"


    "Yes, please." Bella could already guess who had sent these people but wanted to ensure her guess was correct.


    "Alright, I will ask them quickly," Leo said while approaching the man with a red rose tattoo on his neck.


    Bella remained where she was. She saw Leo torturing them to tell them who had sent them.


    However, a few minutes later, Leo tortured them, but none of them spilled anything. This confused Bella why these people covered their employer¡¯s identity like that. They would rather be tortured than talk.


    ¡¯It must be Jessica Sinclair, right? Only that woman could make these gangsters shut their mouths tightly rather than mention her name,¡¯ Bella started to believe with her own guess.


    Leo was growing impatient with the lowly gangster¡¯s silence. He walked over to pick up a dagger not far from them and approached the men close to him. The man who had lost three teeth looked at Leo in horror as if he saw him as a grim reaper.


    Seeing the man¡¯s frightening expression caused Leo to chuckle inwardly.


    "Okay, this is your last chance. If you don¡¯t reveal who sent you, I will slash your little brother down there¡­" Leo said as his eyes looked at the thing between his legs. He felt amused when he saw the man covering his groin with his hand and his face turning white as paper.


    "Br-Brother, please... Please...stop... You can hit me as much as you want, but don¡¯t cut my assets..." he said in a trembling voice.


    "So, what are you waiting for? Speak now! You just need to say a name, and I¡¯ll leave you¡ª" Leo¡¯s voice suddenly stopped when a cold voice sounded behind.


    "Leave him alone, or I will blow her head!"


    Leo immediately turned his head and was shocked to see four men with auras similar to those of the three men he had hit standing behind Bella.


    What shocked Leo even more and made his body immediately freeze was that one of the men stood one meter behind Bella. He pointed a gun at the back of her head. While three other men were standing not far from the gunman, they were all holding metal baseball bats firmly.


    Leo¡¯s hand tightened around the dagger. He turned his gaze towards Bella to assess her condition. He could see her face stiffen and become slightly pale, but the calmness in her eyes surprised him. However, that calm only lasted a few seconds before it turned into a worried and frightened look.


    ¡¯What to do?¡¯ Leo tried to find a way to make them leave this place without anyone getting hurt, especially Bella.


    He wouldn¡¯t be afraid if these men only had daggers or baseball bats. But a gun? He couldn¡¯t take it lightly. They might die if he made a wrong move.


    ¡¯Damn it!! Who the hell sent these people to capture Bella? Laura Kiels?? It must be her, right!?¡¯


    Leo smiled faintly at Bella, trying to give her a sign to remain calm.

 Chapter 229: Leo Begged

    Leo smiled faintly at Bella, trying to signal her to remain calm.


    Then, he looked at the man who was pointing a gun at Bella¡¯s head. The man¡¯s face looked fiercer than the three men he had beaten before. He guessed that this man was the leader of this gangster.


    He could see there was a scar on his left eyebrow. When their eyes met, Leo¡¯s heart sank; he saw the viciousness in his eyes.


    Leo becomes upset because his plan to bribe these gangsters to free them disappears when he sees that this man is not the type of gangster who could be bribed.


    "What do you want?" Leo asked calmly, even though inwardly, he was starting to worry about this situation. There was no way out for him other than to fight. However, how could he fight the gunman?


    An evil smile appeared on the corner of the gunman¡¯s lips before he said, "Throw away your dagger and place your hands behind your head."


    Leo didn¡¯t dare refuse him. He did it immediately. At the same time, his mind was busy looking for ways to strike back and save Bella. He casually walked forward towards the man while keeping his hands behind his head.


    He needed to get close to the gunman to find a chance to steal his gun; even though the chance was tiny, he had to try.


    However, Leo¡¯s plan shattered when the gunman could see his plan.


    "Why are you fucking moving forward!? Stop and kneel!" The gunman shouted angrily, seeing Leo almost reach them.


    His words nearly caused Leo to cough up a mouthful of blood. He couldn¡¯t believe the gunman was asking him to kneel. What the fuck!?


    "You asked me to kneel before you!?" Leo repeated while sending his displeased look at the gunman.


    "One more sentence out of your useless mouth, Ms. Donovan¡¯s head will explode."


    Leo gritted his teeth while venting his anger in his mind. He didn¡¯t want to risk Bella¡¯s life. Though reluctant, he knelt on the hard ground while his eyes glared at the gunman as if he wanted to slap him through his gaze.


    The gunman laughed happily, seeing that Leo didn¡¯t fight back. The pretty guy obediently knelt right after he asked.


    "Ha ha ha, I thought you would fight back. It turns out you were also scared under the pressure of my gun, right?" The gunman was satisfied.


    "This pretty guy is so stupid. Do you think we will hurt her? Of course not. The person who paid us wants her not to get hurt...dummy!" Another man holding a baseball bat said coldly.


    Leo clenched his fists, feeling angry at the man¡¯s words. He worried too much and forgot that fact. If he had kept walking earlier, he might have had the chance to steal the gun. Damn it!


    He looks at the gunman again before he asks, "Who sent you to capture my friend!?"


    "You think I¡¯m stupid enough to tell you?" The gunman chuckled. "Shut your mouth before I send a bullet to blow your head off." He said in a cold tone.


    Leo sneered inwardly. He gnashed his teeth, wanting to tear apart the human being before him. This was the first time someone had insulted him, and he was powerless to fight back. He was really annoyed.


    He could only press his anger, afraid that this man would actually shoot him. He turned to look at Bella.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why does she look so relaxed?¡¯ Leo mumbled under his breath, surprised by Bella¡¯s expression. He thought Bella would be as scared as before or even cry. But this girl looked calm, as if she wasn¡¯t afraid of someone pointing a gun at her head.


    ¡¯Did Bella believe these people wouldn¡¯t hurt her?¡¯ Leo wonders. When Bella¡¯s eyes finally fix on him, he smiles at her, trying to calm her down before he turns his gaze again at the gunman.


    "Man, I understand there is a rule in your organization not to reveal the identity of those who pay you..." Leo said calmly, suppressing his anger to persuade this man.


    The gunman furrowed his brows in confusion, hearing Leo¡¯s words.


    "I¡¯ll give you as much money as you want if you let us go. We won¡¯t report this incident to the police either. I promise you, please..." Leo begged.


    Suddenly, Leo heard the laughter of the four men in front of him and the three men still lying on the ground, testing his patience. He smiled slightly while cursing them thousands of times in his heart.


    "Come on, guys... you just need to tell me your bank number now. And I will send it right away," Leo smiles, trying to buy time. He can see some passersby in the park from a distance. He hopes one of them calls the police. "I¡¯m serious...


    you guys could divide the money among you."


    Leo thought these lowly gangsters would accept his offer with open arms, but they all kept laughing, ignoring him. How shameless!


    "Alright... Alright... Guys... how much do you want? One million? Two?


    Fifty? or a Hundred? You name it..." Leo continued to convince and distract them. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ****


    While Leo was negotiating with the gangsters, at the same time, Tristan, who was just about to get into his car to go to the following meeting location, suddenly stopped when he saw his security chief running after him.


    Tristan turned towards him with a frown when he saw how tense his expression was.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Reid? Is there a problem at our base camp?" Tristan asked, worried that Manager Laura Kiels¡¯ arrest was causing problems.


    He knew they had caught the manager and detained him underground. Still, he only had an agenda to interrogate him tomorrow morning.


    "No, sir." Reid stopped before Tristan and whispered, "My people were shadowing your wife, but they lost her. They thought your wife was still in her office, but when they checked the CCTV footage, it turned out she was outside the office."


    The wrinkles on Tristan¡¯s forehead deepened, and his eyes filled with worry as he heard the unsettling news about Bella.


    "So?"

 Chapter 230: Rescue

    "So?"


    "He tried to trace young Madam, but until now, he couldn¡¯t find her. We tried to call her using an anonymous phone, but the phone was unanswered," Reid took a deep breath before continuing. "Sir, I suggest you call Young Madam; maybe she will pick up if you call."


    Tristan¡¯s fingers trembled as he dialed Bella¡¯s number, his heart pounding harder than before. The phone ring echoed in his ears, but it continued to ring, and Bella¡¯s voice was absent.


    He knew Bella had never silenced her phone for any incoming calls from him or Dax, and her lack of response sent a chill down his spine¡ªshe was nowhere near her phone.


    "Sam..." Tristan mumbled while calling Sam¡¯s number. Sam¡¯s voice could be heard from the other end in only a second ring.


    "Hello, Mr. Tristan!?" Sam was surprised to see Tristan¡¯s number. This is the second time he called him since he knows him in person. "Sir, why did you suddenly call¡ª"


    "Sam, is my wife with you now?" Tristan asked urgently.


    "No, sir. Boss Bella assigned me to another job. So, starting today, I will no longer follow her everywhere. Why do you ask, sir?" Sam asked in confusion.


    Tristan¡¯s shoulders slumped upon hearing Sam¡¯s words. His worry increased when he found out Bella was out of the office alone.


    "Listen, Sam, I lost contact with my wife. She didn¡¯t answer my phone. And... the people I assigned to follow her around said she left the building a few minutes ago, and he also lost her trace. If you are still around the office, please look for her before I assign more people to find her..."


    Sam was shocked. He immediately ended the call and rushed to the CCTV control room.


    ...


    Tristan looked at Reid, "Assign people around my wife¡¯s office to look after her," Tristan said, climbing into his car.


    "Yes, sir..." Reid slightly bowed and left.


    Tristan asked the driver to go to the Quantum Capital building while trying to contact Bella¡¯s personal cell phone number.


    He knew his wife¡¯s noisy cell phone ring tone would attract people¡¯s attention if her phone fell somewhere. However, after several calls, the phone still did not pick up.


    "Bella, why didn¡¯t you pick up? Where are you, huh?" Tristan muttered in worry.


    However, despite his worry, he was grateful that Bella¡¯s phone was still active.


    ****


    While in the park.


    The loud ringtone from Bella¡¯s purse echoes loudly through the air, irritating the gangsters.


    [ Ooh, I see you, see you, see you every time


    And oh my... I, I, I like your style


    You, you make me, make me, make me wanna cry


    And now I beg to see you dance just one more time


    So they say


    "Dance for me, dance for me, dance for me, oh-oh


    I¡¯ve never seen anybody do the things you do before."


    ....]


    [ Ooh, I see you, see you, see you every time


    And oh my... I, I, I like your style


    You, you make me, make me, make me wanna cry


    And now I beg to see you dance just one more time


    ....]


    Bella was happy to hear the ringtone, which only sounded when Tristan and those closest to her called. Now, the loud song had been heard more than five times, meaning that the person who called must be Tristan.


    "What the hell is your ringtone? What song is that??" A gangster holding a baseball bat shouted in annoyance.


    "This pretty lady has a taste for weird music."


    "Hahaha, it¡¯s true. Seriously, what song is that?"


    Bella smiled at their words, "You want to know?" she calmly asked. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes... Yes... Please, I want to know..."


    "Yes, pretty lady, tell us."


    They all shouted excitedly, but Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She was still standing in her place, with her back facing the four gangsters.


    Bella waited for something, and she was patient enough to wait.


    After a few seconds had passed by, and she hadn¡¯t heard the gunman ask her, she decided to ask.


    "How about you? Are you curious too?" Bella said in a low tone. She deliberately asked the person standing right behind her while pointing a gun at her head¡ªto find an opening.


    The gunman¡¯s eyes shook, hearing her alluring voice. He narrowed his eyes at the girl before him while his hand still firmly pointed his gun before her head.


    He chuckled before saying, "Are you trying to distract me or what?"


    Bella¡¯s fist clenched tightly. ¡¯Fuck! He knows?¡¯ her gaze became tense.


    "Alright. Fine! You succeeded in making me curious, too. What song is that?" The gunman continued his words.


    Bella¡¯s eyes lit up as she gazed at Leo. Later, a sinister smile slowly appeared on her lips before she turned toward the man behind.


    With only a single move, the gunman¡¯s gun was already in her hand, shocking him.


    Bella coldly smiled at the shocked man before her. "The song title is Dance Monkey, by Tones and I. OK, I¡¯m bored waiting for you to spill the name I want to hear..." Her voice sounded unhurried, but it was enough to make the gangster leader widen in fear.


    "H-How did... Did you do it? H-How!?" The gangster leader asked. He was curious to know how this woman stole his gun. He couldn¡¯t even see her movement, but now his gun was already in her hand.


    Bella didn¡¯t bother to answer him. She kicked him with her right foot on his knee. Her kick was powerful enough to make the man half-kneel before her with his loud scream.


    "ARGHH!! YOU BITCH!!"


    While still pointing the gun at his head, Bella answered, "You have no right to ask me¡ª"


    Once again, her foot lifted with significant force and kicked towards the gangster leader¡¯s head; in a mere second, his head hit the ground so hard. Blood came out of his mouth, forming a pool of blood on the ground nearby.


    The three other gangsters rushed toward Bella while swinging the iron baseball bat toward her. Their eyes looked scary and savage. It was as if they wanted to kill Bella in revenge for their bloody Boss.

 Chapter 231: Shocked Beyond Words

    The three other gangsters rushed toward Bella while swinging the iron baseball bat toward her. Their eyes looked scary and savage. It was as if they wanted to kill Bella in revenge for their bloody Boss.


    "Bella, watch out, behind¡ª" Leo shouted as he stood up and rushed towards Bella to help her.


    However, Leo stopped his steps when he saw Bella had disappeared from where she was, avoiding the gangsters¡¯ attack.


    Pop!


    Pop!


    Two small sounds of gunshots were heard when Bella shot two of the gangsters who attacked her. They both fell to the ground, crying in pain when hot bullets hit their knee.


    Bella¡¯s movements were so fast that no one could predict her move. In a blink, she was standing behind the last gangster while pressing the silencer edge toward his head.


    "One single move and your brain will shatter!" She said in a cold tone that seemed to lower the temperature around her.


    Instantly, the last gangster froze.


    "Be-Beauty? Pretty Lady... please give me a chance. Don¡¯t shoot me in the head... please..." His voice was cracking as he was almost crying in fear.


    Bella¡¯s mouth twitched. She couldn¡¯t believe it when she heard the man¡¯s voice shaking, crying for mercy.


    How funny!


    Earlier, they were mocking Leo when he begged them for their lives, but now, this man was begging for his life, too.


    "I¡¯m a good woman. I never use violence unnecessarily," Bella said softly, but the man was still scared; he didn¡¯t dare move. "I will let you live. But that depends on your answer."


    The last gangster nodded vigorously. "Yes, yes, pretty Lady, please ask me. I promise you, I will answer..." he said hastily, afraid that this beauty would shoot him in the head.


    "Who sent you?"


    The gangster froze after hearing her question. His hanging hand holding the baseball bat tightened. ¡¯Should I hit this woman?¡¯ he thought. ¡¯Yeah, I have to hit her now. She definitely wouldn¡¯t think I would hit her, right?¡¯


    But before the gangster could swing his baseball bat back, there was a "Pop" sound. Instantly, the bat slipped from his hand, and a groan of pain came out of his mouth as the hot bullet pierced one of his fingers and shattered it into unrecognizable pieces. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unable to endure the pain he felt, his knees gave out, and his colossal body fell heavily onto the stone path.


    Thud!


    Bella smiled faintly, looking at the man before her, now kneeling on the ground with his back facing her.


    With a swift movement, her gun was now aimed at the gangster¡¯s head again; she pressed on the edge of the silencer, causing the man to bend slightly, looking at the ground.


    "My next bullet will hit your head if you try to make any other useless move!"


    "I... I...Didn¡¯t know his full name, but..." the gangster¡¯s voice trembled as he endured the pain in his hand. "I only heard them say his first name."


    "Who?" Bella asked coldly.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, I hear they call him Ja-Jacob..." The gangster didn¡¯t dare to lie to this beauty. He better spill the name; then he dies in her hand.


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s body stiffened. Her face turned dark upon hearing that name.


    ¡¯First uncle!¡¯ Her hand tightly held the gun while trying to hold back her anger, knowing that her uncle had sent these people to catch her.


    Countless questions now filled her mind: Why did he do that? Does this have anything to do with matchmaking?


    ¡­


    Leo was shocked beyond words by what he had seen earlier. Bella could subdue four gangsters in minutes and even steal a gun from the gangster leader smoothly.


    He had never imagined this. How could this small and weak girl do that? He had never heard her learn martial arts before.


    He recently heard that Bella likes exercise, such as running in the morning. He thought Bella did that because she wanted to register for the Fort City Marathon competition. It will be hell next month.


    ¡¯Damn, Bella! How could you surprise me like now?¡¯ He chuckled inwardly.


    Earlier, Leo thought he would use his life to save her. But it turns out that this girl doesn¡¯t actually need his help. With her own strength and swift moves, he guessed Bella could take down all these gangsters by herself.


    Leo shook his head while smiling bitterly. He looked at Bella, who was now torturing the last gangster kneeling before her.


    ...


    It wasn¡¯t just Leo who was surprised to see Bella in action.


    However, Sam and a few men behind him also had similar expressions¡ªshocked and speechless.


    They arrived just in time as Bella stole a gun from the man behind her.


    Sam instantly stopped his colleague when he saw how fast, precise, and practical Bella¡¯s movements were.


    When he saw Bella start to kick them with graceful and powerful kicks, Sam couldn¡¯t help but mumble under his breath, "Since when did she learn Krav Maga martial arts?"


    This martial art was developed for defense. It is derived from a combination of aikido, judo, karate, boxing, and wrestling techniques. It is known for its focus on real-world situations ¡ª close combat fights.


    Sam never thought that the woman he had been protecting in the last few months had abilities that most women rarely possess. As far as he knows, only elites in special forces have this ability.


    ¡¯Tsk! Boss Bella... you have to tell me...¡¯ Sam couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, remembering how panicked he was when he found out Bella didn¡¯t want him to guard her anymore.


    Now Sam felt confused. Is it necessary to call Natasha, one of the valuable assets of the Sentinel Network operating in Russia, to look after Bella?


    "Sam, is that our boss?" One of the men beside Sam asked.


    "Hmm, yes, she¡¯s our boss."


    "Damn it! She¡¯s really skillful. I think her strength and agility are similar to mine..." The man said. He was amazed.


    "Yes, I think so. It was similar to your strength when you were active in special force," Sam casually said.


    "Fuck you, Sam!" The man laughed with amusement when he heard Sam¡¯s words right on target.


    Sam ignored his colleague. He immediately took out his cell phone and sent a message to Tristan.

 Chapter 232: Tristan Arrives

    Tristan and his team swept near the Quantum Capital Building for several minutes but couldn¡¯t find Bella in the area.


    This makes Tristan utterly nervous, but then he finally gets a vital clue from Max; he sends him the last CCTV footage showing Bella and Leo walking towards the park.


    Max could only see them enter the park because there was no CCTV inside, so he couldn¡¯t find their exact location.


    Tristan asked his driver to hurry towards the park and ordered his people to spread out. When his car stopped at the last location where Bella and Leo were seen, he immediately got out of the vehicle.


    He walks toward the stone path, followed by Reid and a few men behind. His cell phone vibrates only a few meters after they enter the park. It was a text from Sam.


    His giant step stopped abruptly.


    Tristan feels his heart tighten as he reads the text.


    [Sam] I found her. You can follow my location.


    [Sam] Live location activate


    He ran to follow the live location that Sam sent him. In a few minutes, he arrived and joined Sam. He didn¡¯t know what had happened, but what he saw shocked him.


    Tristan saw his wife a few meters ahead of them; she pointed a gun at the head of the man kneeling in front of her. He also saw several men lying on the ground in bloody and pathetic conditions.


    He can¡¯t see Bella¡¯s expression now. However, his impression of her posture, standing and holding a gun, is impressive, like a professional shooter or someone who used to shoot a firearm. In this case, a pistol.


    Wait!


    Suddenly, countless questions fill his mind: Can Bella use a firearm? How so? Since when did she learn to use a pistol?


    This fact shocked him because he had never known or heard that Bella practiced shooting.


    Curious about what really happened, Tristan asked Sam, "Who beat these people like this?"


    Sam glanced at Tristan, who still fixed his gaze on Bella.


    "I only saw Boss Bella beating people near her. While the three men behind Leo, I¡¯m not sure whether she is the one who beat them or not," Sam explained.


    Hearing Sam¡¯s words, Tristan glanced at him. "Did you teach my wife to fight and use a gun?" S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sam was surprised to learn that Tristan actually didn¡¯t know about Bella¡¯s ability, too.


    He shook his head before answering, "No, I didn¡¯t teach her. The same as you, sir; I only found out My Boss could fight and protect herself when I arrived here."


    Sam chuckled and turned to see Bella again. He is still impressed and proud of his boss. He can¡¯t wait to get to her but is worried she¡¯ll shoot him. At this moment, he could feel that Bella was still on high alert. He would wait until she noticed his presence.


    "Sir, do¡ª" Sam¡¯s words suddenly stopped when he saw Tristan no longer standing beside him but walking towards Bella.


    "Damn! Does Boss Tristan know his wife is a Krav Maga expert? She¡¯ll probably shoot him if he casually approaches her like that." Sam talks to himself, but Reid, standing near him, is surprised to hear that.


    Reid looked at Sam.


    "You said, my young madam, a Krav Maga expert?" he asked again, afraid he had heard it wrong.


    Sam turned his head and saw the man beside him. A faint smile slowly appeared on his lips before he answered him.


    "Well, I¡¯m not sure, but when I saw how she snatched the gun from the opponent and disabled them in close combat, I¡¯m sure she is learning Krav Maga..."


    Reid didn¡¯t ask anything; he followed Sam¡¯s line of sight and looked at Tristan, who was now standing behind Bella. They both prepared themselves if something terrible happened.


    ....


    Bella could feel footsteps approaching. As fast as lightning, she turned around, pointing the gun at the person.


    Suddenly, her body froze when she saw Tristan standing before her. She saw him raise both hands in the air.


    When their eyes met, Bella¡¯s heart trembled as if there was a storm inside that stirred her heart and mind.


    ¡¯Did I see wrong? This man, my husband, right!?¡¯


    "It¡¯s me, my dear wife..." Tristan said, smiling lovingly at her. He was slightly surprised seeing her fast movement; she was about to shoot him.


    "T-Tristan... H-Hubby..." Bella whispered his name. She didn¡¯t expect to meet her husband here so soon. She thought finding her location in this vast city park would be difficult because there was no CCTV. "Since when are you here?"


    Tristan did not immediately answer Bella¡¯s question. However, he slowly held the gun in her hand; the gun was still pointed at him. He could feel Bella gripping the pistol tightly when he touched her hand. After he squeezed her hand gently, she finally relaxed her grip.


    "My dear, let me take care of this..." Tristan took the gun on its barrel and gave it to Reid, standing behind him. "Reid, take care of this."


    "Yes, sir..."


    Then Tristan looked at Bella again. He was stunned when he saw her face turn pale. Her look was no longer as fierce as before, but she looked confused and worried.


    "My wife..." Tristan took her hand and held it gently. However, when their hands touched once again, he was surprised that her hands trembled. He didn¡¯t say a word but pulled her into his arms.


    His strong arms crossed around her, and her shaking body became more prominent as soon as their bodies touched.


    Tristan was surprised to see Bella¡¯s sudden change. Earlier, he had seen her fierce eyes staring back at him when she almost shot him, but the look in her eyes was different; he could only see fear and worry in there. Why?


    Over his shoulder, Tristan spoke to Reid, "Clear this area. Ensure no one saw it, and there are no CCTV records of this incident. My wife and I will leave this place now..."


    "Consider it done, sir."


    "Thank you!"

 Chapter 233: Startled

    Tristan leaned in and whispered to Bella, "Let¡¯s get out of here, my wife."


    She responded to him with a weak "Mhmm..."


    Hearing her barely audible voice was like hearing someone who had lost the strength to speak, causing Tristan to feel even more worried about her.


    He put his hands on her shoulder to make her look into his eyes.


    "You must have felt weak with all the adrenaline rush now gone. Would you mind if I carry you in my arms?" he asked worriedly.


    He could feel Bella¡¯s body still shaking, and he also saw her shock still lingering in her eyes, but she tried to hide it.


    Bella suddenly flinched at his words. She clutched Tristan¡¯s hands, trying to balance her feet¡ªsomehow, she felt her knees go weak like they were slowly turning to jelly. Her adrenalin had left her entirely now that she was safe.


    The fact that this is the first time she has had the chance to use all the techniques she learned in real-life situations since practicing weird martial arts from her master in Sweden might also made her exhausted.


    This is also the first time she has used the gun to shoot the real, breathing target: humans.


    When she was in a critical situation earlier, Bella didn¡¯t feel nervous at all. Instead, she made every move with confidence, shooting and beating the gangsters. Her adrenalin indeed occupied and energized her mind and body. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, now...


    After everything was over, she saw Tristan before her eyes; her alertness and vigilance were gone and replaced by worry and nervousness. And it swallowed her.


    But Bella still has some energy left to stand and walk on her own. So she shook her head while smiling faintly at him. "Thank you, Tristan. I think I can walk perfectly by myself," she answered, but then she suddenly remembered something.


    Previously, she had been too busy dealing with gangsters and had forgotten about Leo. She turned around to find him, afraid he was in pain.


    She felt relieved when she saw Leo standing a few steps away from her. "Leo¡­.Are you alright?" she asked in worry.


    Leo was rendered speechless when he saw the worries through Bella¡¯s eyes. ¡¯Did this girl think I¡¯m that weak? Why worry about me?¡¯ He wondered, feeling amused.


    He smiled, scratching his head, "I¡¯m fine... thanks for your concern about me, Boss."


    "Thank God you¡¯re alright, Leo..." Bella smiled before continuing, "Leo, I won¡¯t be returning to the office after all this unpleasant incident; I¡¯m going home with my husband."


    "Sure, Boss, don¡¯t worry about anything. I will take care of everything in the office..." Leo said. He felt relieved that this incident was finally over without them getting hurt.


    Then, Leo looked at Tristan and said, "Boss Tristan, your wife hasn¡¯t eaten anything. You better feed her now, or she will faint."


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s face turned dark, annoyed with the gangsters who attacked his wife, causing her to miss lunch.


    "Thank you, Leo..." Tristan said while taking Bella¡¯s hand. He nodded slightly to Leo, then walked away from the scene with Bella beside him.


    After a few steps, he glanced at her, "What do you want to eat?" he asked gently.


    Only now did Bella feel incredibly hungry. She could hear a strange sound in her stomach as if protesting, asking her to eat immediately.


    "Anything delicious wouldn¡¯t be so bad, but nothing fancy. I only need to eat something now..." she said while glancing at her watch; it was almost two in the afternoon. "Let¡¯s go home."


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything and continued his step toward his car.


    When they were settled in the car, Tristan instructed the driver to go to the Stone House Restaurant. He then pushed the partition button to divide them and shield them from the driver and his bodyguard in the front row.


    He lifted her to sit on his lap when the car partition was covered.


    Bella was surprised, but she didn¡¯t refuse him. Instead, she tries to fit herself into his arms while leaning her head on his chest.


    ...


    They would arrive at the restaurant in fifteen minutes, enough time for Bella to calm herself down after what happened to her.


    Tristan let Bella rest in his arms for a few minutes before he took his cell phone and sent several messages to the restaurant manager to prepare their late lunch. He ordered some of Bella¡¯s favorite foods and her favorite dessert cake.


    After that, he put his cell phone away, but later, something crossed his mind. He typed another text, but this time to Reid.


    [Tristan] Who sent those people?


    It didn¡¯t take long for Tristan to get a reply from Reid. His whole blood boiled when he read the name on his cellphone screen.


    ¡¯Jacob Donovan!¡¯


    Tristan had no idea that this person had sent gangsters to arrest his wife.


    ¡¯How could he bear to do that to his own niece!?¡¯


    Before Tristan had time to respond, Reid sent another text.


    [Reid] They were asked to take the young madam to East City.


    [Reid] This involves the Dawson Group. They contact and hire these gangsters.


    ¡¯Dawson Group?¡¯ Tristan muttered as he put his cell phone back.


    He knew about this company from Max¡¯s investigation; the owner of Dawson Group asked Bella¡¯s parents for a marriage agreement.


    However, Tristan didn¡¯t know what had happened in the East City or why they suddenly wanted to kidnap her.


    Tristan silently took a deep sigh. He briefly looked at Bella, who was asleep in his arms.


    Then, he turned his gaze out the window. He began planning to teach the Dawson Group and Jacob Donovan. This time, he would do something because they were out of line.


    Even though Bella had asked him not to interfere in her family¡¯s affairs, he would still teach the Dawson Group a lesson.


    He would not allow this small company to survive in this country. Not while the owner of that company was eyeing his wife.


    ¡¯Dawson Group, you were making a terrible move. You choose to become my enemy...¡¯ A faint smile appeared on the corner of his lips.

 Chapter 234: Waiting For Her To Talk

    ¡¯Dawson Group, you were making a terrible move. You choose to become my enemy...¡¯


    Tristan took out his cell phone again and sent several messages to Max, asking him to investigate the company in detail.


    He needs to know the complete details of his enemy before he acts.


    Not long after, the car finally stopped. At the same time, Bella, who had been asleep for a few minutes, moved slightly and opened her eyes.


    She smiled at Tristan while sitting straight and looking around.


    "Oh, this is the restaurant we visit with Dax, right?"


    "Yes. Let¡¯s go..." Tristan helped her sit in her seat before he stepped out of the car and ran to Bella¡¯s side to open the door for her.


    ****


    The food Tristan ordered was already arranged on the table when they entered the VIP room.


    Tristan let Bella sit and urged her to eat. Seeing how tempting she looked while devouring her food, he decided to eat again to accompany her.


    While eating, Tristan started to wonder what had happened and how all seven gangsters were lying on the ground when he arrived.


    But, even though he was curious about the reason those people wanted to kidnap her, he wouldn¡¯t ask now. He would wait for her to finish and fill her hungry stomach.


    ....


    Seeing how quickly Bella finished her main dish made Tristan worried.


    "My darling wife, eat slowly..." he smiled when she looked into his eyes. "No one will steal yours..."


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him; she rolled her eyes and continued eating. But this time, she slowed down and tried to enjoy her food.


    She didn¡¯t know why, but after fighting the gangsters, Bella felt like her energy was running out. She needed to eat a lot now to regain her power.


    "Would you like roast beef or some other soup?" Tristan offered as he watched her finish her beef roast in a few chews. "Or do you want Japanese food? They can make it for you if you want..."


    Even though it sounded tempting, Bella shook her head slowly. The food on the table was more than enough for her.


    "No, thank you..."


    Later,


    Tristan saw that Bella had finally finished eating her main dish and was enjoying two scoops of vanilla ice cream with fine nuts sprinkled on top.


    "Do you need more? Let me call the waitress¡­" He was happy to see her eating so much; she looked like their son, Dax.


    "No need. I¡¯m already full. My belly will explode if I continue to eat something," she said, about to wipe the corner of her lips with a napkin.


    But before she could do that, her eyes widened in surprise when she saw Tristan stand from his seat and lean forward toward her.


    Her heart raced again when she saw his face getting closer, and in a blink, she felt his warm lips touched hers. She could feel her blood rush when she felt his warm tongue gently licking her lips as if to remove the remaining ice cream.


    When his lips parted from hers, she could see his eyes beaming like someone had lit a bonfire, and his smile widened like spring came after a long winter. Gosh!


    Bella felt her cheek getting warm and her heart beating loudly. She lowered her eyes and distracted her mind with the red velvet cake on the table.


    However, after eating two bites, her hand hung in the air when she heard him ask.


    "My pretty wife, since when did you learn Krav Maga? Who taught you?"


    Bella slowly lifted her face to meet his curious gaze, instantly raising many questions in her mind.


    ¡¯So he saw me fighting?¡¯ She didn¡¯t know why but felt embarrassed to show him her fighting ability.


    She put the spoon on the plate before she answered. "After I gave birth to Dax, I started exercising to lose weight, but after a few months, I met a retired soldier who lived near my property. He offered to teach me this martial art for self-defense¡­" Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella informed Tristan that her master had taught her various skills. She started with the basics to improve her strength and agility.


    Later, her master trained her in one-on-one combat and how to exchange blows during a fight. Once she had mastered these techniques, her master taught her how to use a gun and how to disarm any opponent who had a weapon if one day she met danger.


    "It was fun... I enjoyed the process so much. I achieved my target to lose weight and became a martial arts expert," Bella¡¯s eyes sparkled with joy, remembering her martial arts Master and his wife. She already considered them part of her family.


    She continued, "I never knew the name of this martial art before. But recently, before I returned to this country, my master told me that this is actually Krav Maga... a fighting skill usually learned by soldiers in their countries."


    "No wonder you look like an expert," Tristan felt proud of her.


    Bella silently gulped. Her eyes blinked several times, and she looked at Tristan. "H-Husband¡­ did you see me shoot them? I mean, since when did you get there?"


    She was worried that Tristan would see her beat those people. She felt embarrassed.


    "No, I didn¡¯t see you," Tristan told her. "Sam came first and told me how you beat four people so quickly." He felt amused as he watched her shyness. "I only saw the way you held the gun. Your posture is very confident. You don¡¯t look like someone just learning to use it, but you look like a pro..."


    Bella smiled faintly at his praise.


    "I never imagined I could fight so effectively against someone holding a gun or sharp weapon while using the knowledge I had learned to defend myself," Bella said with a deep sigh, remembering what happened in the park.


    "I felt like I had an adrenaline rush when I was in that situation... but... after I saw you, I suddenly felt nervous and like all my energy had run out." She smiled at Tristan.


    Tristan was silent momentarily, but his eyes were still fixed on Bella. He appeared to be deep in thought.

 Chapter 235: Finally, He Ask

    Tristan was silent momentarily, but his eyes were still fixed on Bella. He appeared to be deep in thought.


    When Tristan noticed Bella¡¯s anxious expression and waited for him to speak, Tristan finally asked.


    "My dear wife, I heard that... Sam is no longer your driver and bodyguard. Why did you dismiss him?" He was curious to know her reason.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. "How do you know he¡¯s no longer my driver and bodyguard!?" she asked.


    Tristan silently took a deep breath when he remembered how frightening he was when he couldn¡¯t contact her.


    "Well, when I lost contact with you, I called him. And he told me that you assigned him to other tasks."


    Bella could see how gloomy he was when talking about the incident at the park earlier. She gave a half smile before explaining.


    "Yes. I would be wasting his talents if he remained my driver and bodyguard. So, starting today, he will take care of other divisions. Moreover, you insisted on driving me around, so indirectly, he will lose his job if he becomes my driver, right, Mr. Sinclair?"


    "Hahaha, you¡¯re right..." Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    However, Tristan¡¯s laugh gradually faded a few moments later, and his expression turned serious. His eyes deepened, looking at Bella, causing her to be confused.


    "My wife, I know you¡¯ll hate this, but please consider my offer first. And please accept it," his voice turned serious without losing its gentleness.


    "What do you want to say?" Bella slightly frowned, hearing his words.


    "I already thought about this... starting tomorrow, my people will guard you. They will become your driver and bodyguard..."


    Bella silently took a deep breath. She already guessed this would happen when she returned to him.


    In the past, even though Tristan didn¡¯t love her, he still assigned her the best chauffeur, who turned out to be an expert in martial arts, too¡ªthat¡¯s what she heard from Noora.


    And now that Tristan is more in love and crazy about her, it¡¯s clear he¡¯ll do it again¡ªgive her extra security.


    She smiled at him before saying, "Hubby, I¡¯m okay with the bodyguard. But, is it necessary for the driver too?"


    "Oh dear, of course, this is necessary. I want people around you to be someone I trust the most..." His gaze seemed to convey that he didn¡¯t want to be rejected.


    "But, Hubby, I¡ª" Bella wanted to protest, to refuse the driver, but Tristan stopped her.


    "I apologize, my dear. I wish to ensure that today¡¯s unfortunate events will not occur again. While I understand you are capable of defending yourself, there may come a time when you encounter an enemy who surpasses your abilities..."


    Tristan continued again when he saw her say nothing but stare at him while nodding. "In such a scenario, relying on a single bodyguard may not be sufficient. Therefore, your driver must possess similar skills as your bodyguard."


    Bella could only smile at him. She knows she can¡¯t refute him this time.


    Moreover, what he said was on point. If someone sent a dozen people to capture her, she would probably be injured.


    Especially now, since she returned to this country, her enemies had doubled. It is not just her family and Jessica Sinclair; her decisions with the company could create new enemies that will harm her.


    Before Bella could say "OK" to Tristan, he spoke again.


    "Darling, I know I sound too exaggerated. But you know what? The mere thought of someone trying to harm you is enough to make my brain feel like it¡¯s about to explode. This noon, I get scared to death when I am unable to contact you..." Tristan¡¯s voice was filled with genuine concern.


    "Sorry, Hubby, if I made you worry. Alright, I will accept your arrangement," She said, feeling bad for him if she rejected him.


    Bella chuckled when she saw him finally show his happy smile.


    "Thanks, darling; I will make sure they are the best to guard you. Don¡¯t worry; they will meet you soon... in a few days," Tristan said.


    "Thank you."


    They continued to speak about another thing, but before long, something suddenly crossed Tristan¡¯s mind.


    "Wife, do you know who sent those gangsters?" he asked curiously, wondering whether she knew or not.


    Bella¡¯s face slowly turned dark as soon as she remembered her first uncle, who sent those gangsters to catch her.


    "Hmm... I know. It was my first uncle, Jacob Donovan..." A wry smile appeared on the edge of her lips. "Since my first uncle has gone too far, I won¡¯t remain silent any longer. I will take care of him immediately..."


    There was a fiery glint in Bella¡¯s eyes. She suspected that her father and uncle were plotting to have her arrested. She knew her father approved of the marriage agreement as a business deal.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to respond. He supported his face with one hand while gently stroking his forehead, thinking about something. Did he need to tell her about the Dawson Group¡¯s involvement?


    "Hubby, don¡¯t worry..." Bella said again when she saw Tristan¡¯s expression turn sour. She could also see the worry in his eyes. She continued, "Everything will be fine soon. I already have a plan to make my first uncle regret what he did today!" S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan decides to tell her.


    "My wife, there¡¯s something you don¡¯t seem to know..."


    "Something I don¡¯t know? What is it?"


    Tristan sat up straight, calmly looking at her as he told her about the Dawson Group¡¯s involvement.


    "I don¡¯t know whether you know about Dawson¡¯s group or not... but they were involved in sending those gangsters to kidnap you. Their goal was to take you to East City," he explained.


    Bella was shocked. Hearing that, her face turned redder and redder, as if her blood vessels were about to burst. She really could not understand how that person was also involved.


    But later, her face turned pale as she looked at Tristan.


    "H-Hubby... Do you know about the Dawson Group? I mean, about my marriage arrangement with the owner?"

 Chapter 236: Please, Don’t Stop Me!

    But later, Bella¡¯s face turned pale as she looked at Tristan.


    "H-Hubby... Do you know about the Dawson Group? I mean, about my marriage arrangement with the owner?"


    Tristan noticed her panicked expression.


    He smiled at her before saying, "I found out that the CEO of the Dawson Group had his eyes on you. This annoyed me," he put on a sad expression, causing Bella to frown slightly.


    "Wait, weren¡¯t you the one who told me about that?" Tristan asked.


    Bella forgot whether she had ever talked to him about this. They talked about so many things in the past few days that she no longer remembers which story she told him or not because she only realized her husband was a good investigator. He could make someone speak anything without them realizing it.


    "Maybe..." She said briefly.


    Tristan offered her orange juice before continuing his words. "My darling wife... I hope you didn¡¯t stop me from teaching the Dawson Group a lesson," he said casually, but Bella saw a flash of fire in his eyes.


    ¡¯He is mad...¡¯ She took a deep breath.


    "I won¡¯t stop you. You can do anything you deem necessary with them..." She chuckled. "But, you don¡¯t have to do anything for my family. I can take care of it myself. I will do something to make my uncle and father regret what they did to me!"


    Bella couldn¡¯t wait to execute her plan. She only needed to talk to her grandpa before taking action because this would affect the Donovan Group.


    Even though her grandpa has retired from the company, he is still its founder. It would hurt him to know she destroyed it, so she needs to inform him before carrying out her plan.


    "What are you going to do about your uncle?" S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She smiled mysteriously at him, "It¡¯s a secret for now. But the plan is in motion, and I promise you... you will find out later..."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh, seeing how adorable she was. It made him want to hold her in his arms. But they are in the restaurant now, worried he can¡¯t hold himself.


    "Alright, alright. I trust you. Okay, let¡¯s go home now..." Tristan stood from his seat and offered his hand to her.


    ****


    East City.


    Meanwhile, within one of the buildings in East City,


    Three old men sat in a large and luxurious office room. Their faces looked tense. No one tried to dilute the tension that was so thick in the room.


    Their gazes were focused on the thin black cell phone on the table before them. They waited for the phone to ring to convey the vital news they anticipated to hear.


    However, it had been three hours past the specified time, and the phone still had not rung. It was making them even more anxious.


    After several minutes, one of the men in the room finally broke the silence by clearing his throat before the man said in a deep voice.


    "Brad, what happened? Why haven¡¯t your people reported to you yet?" The man¡¯s eyes stared at the round-faced man with bald spots in the middle of his head; he was Bradley Caville, the owner of Dawson Group.


    Bradley Caville saw Jacob Donovan, who was sitting opposite him. His frown deepened before he said confusedly, "I don¡¯t understand either, Brother Jacob. Why haven¡¯t they called me yet? This isn¡¯t like how they usually do. These people usually work quickly and cleanly to carry out this kind of task..."


    Jacob Donovan frowned. Feeling confused, the same as Bradley.


    "Did they fail to carry on your order?" another man in the room asked. Suddenly, Bradley and Jacob looked at him with a "Seriously?" look.


    "Fail? You said my people failed!?" Bradley muttered softly before his loud laughter booming, "Bwa-ha-ha-ha."


    After his booming laughter subsided, Bradley Caville continued, "My friend Lucas, don¡¯t underestimate my people. They are very skilled at this kind of work. Bringing your daughter to this city is an easy job for them." He said proudly.


    Lucas Donovan took a deep breath, hearing Bradley¡¯s words and looking at his confidence.


    But, something still bugged his heart about the idea of forcibly bringing Bella to this city; it was not his own idea. He didn¡¯t favor this method but couldn¡¯t argue with Jacob and Bradley, forcing Bella to return to this city to finalize their marriage in court.


    And what made him finally agree with them was his daughter¡¯s stubbornness and his father¡¯s firm refusal.


    "Good then... I hope they succeed. But, Brad... make sure your people won¡¯t hurt her, or I¡¯ll be mad at you!" Lucas said seriously, his sharp eyes fixed on Bradley.


    Although Bradley was Lucas¡¯ best friend, he still had the right to ensure his daughter¡¯s safety before marrying her to Bradley.


    "Bwa-Ha-ha-ha..." Suddenly, Bradley¡¯s distinctive laugh rang out in the room again. "You think I will let them live if they hurt my wife?? I will kill them all, even if they touch her hair. Don¡¯t worry too much, my dear friend..."


    Bradley¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up again as he tried to imagine the little girl he had seen several years ago, who would become his wife tomorrow if they succeeded in bringing her today. He couldn¡¯t wait to consummate their marriage immediately.


    Lucas Donovan could only shake his head when he saw Bradley¡¯s smug-looking face. Looking at his smile widely, he could guess what was on his mind now.


    ¡¯This old brat!¡¯ Lucas vented his sarcasm in his mind before turning his gaze to his older brother. "Brother, do we need to wait here?"


    "Why? Do you need to go somewhere now?" Jacob Donovan slightly raised his eyebrow, looking at Lucas.


    "Yes. I need to see Father once more before he returns to the capital. I heard he will fly to the capital this afternoon."


    Jacob Donovan frowned momentarily as if considering something before finally saying, "Okay. Okay. You may go... I will stay here waiting for the good news."


    "Well then, I will excuse myself." Lucas Donovan immediately excused himself and left the room. He headed straight for his father¡¯s house, trying to convince him again to resolve this matter quickly.


    However, as soon as Lucas arrived in his car, he was shocked when he read the short message on his cell phone.


    "What the hell!?" He muttered, annoyed.

 Chapter 237: Grandpa Return

    In the evening...


    While Bella and Tristan were chatting in bed and cuddling after finishing dinner, Bella¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    "Who¡¯s calling you at this hour?" Tristan¡¯s voice clearly conveyed his displeasure at someone daring to call her.


    Bella immediately got up and grabbed her cell phone from the nightstand. "It¡¯s Grandpa," she answered Tristan.


    She answered the phone as she sat on the edge of the bed.


    "Hello Grandpa, is everything alright? Why are you calling me at this hour?" Bella glanced at the digital clock on the nightstand; it was nine.


    A sense of worry gradually crept into her heart. She was afraid that something might have happened to her Grandpa, who was currently in East City.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry to call you this late. But I need to meet you now. Can you come to my home now?"


    Bella was surprised to learn that her Grandpa had already returned. She didn¡¯t answer immediately but turned to Tristan, sitting beside her as if seeking his permission.


    Seeing him nod, she immediately returned to her Grandpa.


    "Okay. I¡¯ll be there in a few minutes, Grandpa..." She said and ended the call.


    She looked at Tristan, "Grandpa has just arrived. He has something important to say to me..."


    Bella stood up from the bed and walked to the walk-in closet to change her nightgown.


    "I¡¯ll take you there..." Tristan said.


    Bella stopped her steps and turned to Tristan, who was standing behind her. She looked into Tristan¡¯s eyes with mixed feelings. She didn¡¯t think letting Tristan hear her conversation with Grandpa was a good idea.


    She could guess that her grandfather wanted to discuss her matchmaking plans with her father¡¯s friends.


    "Why are you looking at me like that? You don¡¯t want me to go?" Tristan put his hands on her waist and pulled her close.


    "No, of course not." She smiled at him. "I am only afraid you will be annoyed when you hear our conversation later. I could guess Grandpa wanted to discuss my father¡¯s plans."


    "Ms. Sinclair, I need to hear everything. How can I stay here when another man wants to steal my wife?" Tristan said as he leaned in to kiss her cheek. "Okay, quickly change your clothes. Don¡¯t keep Grandpa waiting any longer."


    She nods and immediately changes her clothes.


    ....


    When Tristan and Bella arrive at Isaac¡¯s house, Nick is already waiting for them at the main entrance.


    "Young Miss, Master Tristan¡­" Nick greeted them politely before leading them to Isaac¡¯s study room.


    "What time did you arrive, Nick?" Bella asks while walking inside.


    "We arrived before dinner. Actually, the Old Master wanted to call you as soon as we arrived. However, all of a sudden, he decided to wait. Old Master told me he was worried that Young Master Dax would ask to come here if he found out. That¡¯s why he only called you now, waiting for him to sleep..."


    "I see. Thank you for your update, Nick." Bella could only smile upon hearing that.


    Nick gently knocked on the door when they arrived at the study room.


    "Please come in." Isaac¡¯s faint voice could be heard from inside.


    "Grandpa," Bella smiled at Isaac. "I¡¯m so happy you finally returned."


    "Hahaha... Bella! Did you miss me?"


    "Yes, of course, I missed you, Grandpa. But... I am also mad at you. How could you return to the East without telling me?" She pouted while narrowing her eyes.


    Isaac ignored his granddaughter¡¯s annoyance and turned to see Tristan, "Tristan, you also come..."


    Tristan greeted Isaac with a slight nod, "Yes, Grandpa..."


    "Good... Good... Alright, have a seat first." Isaac asked them to join him. After seeing them sit across from him, he fixed his eyes on Tristan. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He stared at Tristan for a few seconds before he said, "Tristan, what I¡¯m going to talk to Bella probably will hurt your heart. Do you still want to stay here to hear it?"


    A faint smile slowly appeared on Tristan¡¯s lips, "Grandpa, Bella is my wife. So, whatever you want to talk to her about, even if it annoys or hurts me, I will still be here to hear it."


    Bella feels her heart warm as she hears his words. She looks at him and smiles, gently placing her hand on his lap and patting it.


    She then turns to her Grandpa, "My husband already knows what happened in East City, Grandpa. I tell him everything, so it¡¯s fine if he hears it..."


    "Good!" Isaac smiles while nodding. "You already know that your father has set you up with the owner of the Dawson group, right?" Isaac looks at Bella.


    "Yes, I know."


    "Well, your father and uncle are in trouble now. They have received cooperation from the Dawson Group with the condition that you marry the owner of Dowson."


    Isaac takes a deep breath before he continues, "And what a stupid move from your father was! He agreed to the marriage arrangement, sealing the deal with that old man to marry you. You only need to return home and sign the marriage papers for them to submit to the court."


    Tristan clenches his hands tightly when he hears Isaac¡¯s words. The information is indeed hurtful. He didn¡¯t expect his father-in-law to do that.


    How could Lucas Donovan sell his daughter for a business deal?


    At first, Tristan wanted to mend his relationship with Lucas Donovan, which had been damaged years ago when Tristan found out that his parents had made a business deal with Lucas.


    But hearing this was hard for him to ignore. He would continue to be upset if he thought about it. And the idea of mending his relationship with Lucas Donovan faded from his mind.


    As Tristan is drawn into his anger, Bella tries to suppress hers.


    She tries to remain calm as much as possible before she asks, "Grandpa, they called you back to the East because they need you to convince me?" Bella asked.


    "Yes, that¡¯s their reason. But you don¡¯t need to worry; I strongly rejected their crazy idea and told them to stop bugging me about how to deal with the Dawson Group matter. I will not get involved or get duped into getting involved!"


    Isaac took a deep breath, feeling embarrassed by what his son had done.

 Chapter 238: Bella’s Grand Plan (1)

    Bella¡¯s heart swelled as she looked at her Grandpa, who always stood behind her and chose her over his own sons.


    "Thank you, Grandpa¡­" Her voice trembled slightly, trying hard not to shed tears.


    "Oh, my dear Bella, you don¡¯t need to say that," Isaac comforted her.


    Isaac always felt sympathetic towards his granddaughter, Bella. Her parents had mistreated her, and Isaac always tried to intervene. Despite scolding Bella¡¯s father for his biased approach in raising Henry over Bella, his son, Lucas Donovan, remained stubborn and refused to listen. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella could only sigh silently while hiding her teary eyes.


    "Okay, now, you don¡¯t need to worry about anything. Your father won¡¯t bother you anymore. I firmly told your father and uncle I don¡¯t care about their actions. Even if the company closes because of their stupidity, I don¡¯t care..." Isaac said calmly, but his fiery-looking gaze failed to hide his inward anger.


    Since Isaac knows about all his sons using Bella¡¯s marriage with Tristan as a business deal with the Sinclair Group, he has given up on all his sons. He withdrew from Donovan Group and tried to live quietly.


    ...


    After feeling better, Bella looked back at her grandfather. She needed to know if her Grandpa knew about her uncle sending gangsters to catch her.


    "Grandpa, when did you last communicate with my father and uncle?" Bella asked.


    "This morning, your father came with your third uncle. They were still trying to ask for my blessing and asked me to convince you for the sake of the company¡¯s safety, but of course, I still ignored them."


    Bella took a deep breath before telling her grandfather about the incident where she was almost kidnapped by gangsters sent by her uncle.


    Before Bella had finished explaining, she could see her grandfather¡¯s face redden; he was so angry.


    "WHAT THE HELL ARE THEY DOING!? Your uncle sent gangsters to catch you? What shamelessness! How could he have the heart to do that?" Hearing of his eldest son¡¯s evilness, Isaac felt like his heart was about to burst.


    In a hurry, Isaac took his cell phone, and with trembling hands, he opened his phone book. "I will call him now and scold him, how dare he¡ª"


    "Grandpa, please stop it," Bella immediately stopped Isaac. "Don¡¯t do anything for now..."


    Isaac¡¯s fingers stopped searching for his first son¡¯s name in the phone book. Confusedly, he looked at Bella, "Why did you stop me, dear!?" he asked.


    "There¡¯s no need to waste energy scolding him, Grandpa. I¡¯ll deal with my first uncle. I have big plans for him for what he did to me. But..." Bella was silent for a moment, trying to suppress the anger that was starting to consume her.


    "Yes, dear, what is it?" Isaac asked when he saw her looking angry but not saying anything.


    "Grandpa, if... I did something terrible to the Donovan Group..." Her eyes blink a few times before she continues. "Will you be disappointed in me?"


    Isaac frowned, confused by her statement.


    "Please speak clearly, My dear. My rusty brain can¡¯t grasp what you mean." Isaac said.


    Bella was silent for a few seconds before she finally explained her plan to bring Jacob Donovan down and pay for what he had done. She would cause the Donovan Group¡¯s share price to drop to its lowest point and create discord between the current CEO, Jacob Donovan, and the other shareholders.


    She could picture all shareholders putting pressure on the current CEO, her dear Uncle Jacob.


    And, of course, she would ensure her uncle steps down from the position he is really proud of.


    Bella also planned to force all her uncles and father to sell their shares to her under her secret company.


    Her grand plan was to ensure that they all went bankrupt. And, she would take control of the company when she became the largest shareholder.


    She would fire all her uncles and father from the company and hire professionals to run it.


    Because her uncle, Jacob Donovan, couldn¡¯t run the company. He has been CEO for almost ten years; However, instead of bringing the company to more significant growth, the company he controlled actually did the opposite.


    Bella slightly took a deep sigh as she said, "That¡¯s my plan, Grandpa. I hope you don¡¯t mind if I carry it out. This is for the sake of the Donovan Group, the company you built..."


    Isaac gasped in surprise when he heard Bella¡¯s big plan. He was amazed to listen to it. He didn¡¯t expect his dear granddaughter, who was always gentle, to dare take such a huge step to fight her uncles and father.


    "Bella, I will support you one hundred percent... No, not a hundred, but a thousand..." His eyes beaming, he looked at Bella. "Do you need money to do this? I will ask Nick to transfer my money to you..."


    Bella remained silent. She didn¡¯t need her Grandpa¡¯s money; she had plenty in her Swiss bank account.


    Isaac smiled when he saw Bella not saying anything. He continued, "Well, even though I have been retired for a long time, I am still rich. I have a lot of money in the bank and countless assets around this country to sell if you need more money. You can use it to teach your Uncles and Father..." He said happily.


    Bella felt amused, looking at how excited her Grandpa was.


    "Thank you, Grandpa. But at the moment, I don¡¯t need it. I have plenty of money from Tristan. He paid me a lot of money when he forced me to sign a divo¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t bring herself to continue her sentence when she saw Tristan¡¯s face slowly turn gloomy. She suddenly wanted to scold herself for saying such words.


    Bella gently held Tristan¡¯s hand and gave him an apologetic look. She knew he had been blaming himself for a past incident and could never move on.


    "Grandpa¡­ I mean¡­ I have more than enough ready funds. Buying all the shares from the current shareholders at a premium is not a problem for me..."

 Chapter 239: Bella’s Grand Plan (2)

    Bella smiled at him before continuing, "But if one day, and I hope that day never comes, my funds are running out, I will definitely tell you..."


    "Hahaha... okay... okay... my dear Bella. You have my blessing. You can do whatever you want with Donovan Group.


    I don¡¯t care about them anymore. And... I will transfer the rest of my shares to your name."


    Isaac smiled happily, feeling content to support Bella. He continued, "Well, even though I don¡¯t have many shares, I hope this can help you to teach all my shameless sons."


    "Thank you, Grandpa. I will ask my head secretary, Leo Smith, to contact Nick for that," Bella expressed her gratitude for her Grandpa¡¯s support.


    Isaac nodded in agreement, but a few moments later, his expression turned serious when he remembered something.


    The line on his forehead deepened as he said, "Bella, please don¡¯t touch Nick and Noora¡¯s shares in the company."


    Bella was surprised to hear what Grandpa had just said.


    "Grandpa, you gave them your company shares?"


    "Yes. I gave both of them a few percent of my shares, and it is worth every penny. You see, Nick has been caring for me for so long, since his early twenties. I already think of him as my own son. And as for Noora, she is your Grandma¡¯s favorite maid. Noora took great care of her when she was ill, almost like spoiled your Grandma."


    "Grandpa, you are so kind..." Bella¡¯s heart swells when she hears her Grandfather hasn¡¯t forgotten about Aunty Noora and Nick¡¯s dedication to them.


    "No, no, no. Don¡¯t say that. I¡¯m just a human. It¡¯s my duty to do that, dear. Plus, those two are very kind toward you, particularly Noora. She has always been greatly kind to you and Dax.


    She cares for both of you like a mother and a Grandmother. And...Bella. One more thing. Would you mind looking after your Aunt Emma? She is the opposite of her brothers."


    "I promise to keep Nick and Noora¡¯s shares intact, Grandpa. And about Aunt Emma, I want you to trust me. I love Aunt Emma; I will not let anything bad happen to her. And, if she let me, I will care for her¡­" Bella sincerely said. She did like Aunt Emma.


    When her uncle and father don¡¯t like her, Aunt Emma loves her; she is kind and gentle even though they rarely see each other because Aunt Emma used to live abroad.


    "Hmm, thank you, dear," Isaac nodded in satisfaction at Bella¡¯s answer. He continued his words again. "And, if one day I leave this mortal world, please look after Nick and Noora for me," he said while looking at Tristan. "I hope you don¡¯t mind accepting Nick into your family, Tristan..."


    Without thinking, Tristan answered, "Sure, Grandpa, I will look after them. Don¡¯t worry..." He had already considered them members of his family¡ªespecially Noora¡ªwhen he started pursuing Bella.


    Bella¡¯s grateful smile framed her pretty face as she heard Tristan¡¯s answer to her Grandfather. She thanked Tristan through her gaze before she looked at her Grandfather.


    "Grandpa... Aunty Noora and Uncle Nick definitely will stay with¡ª" Suddenly, Bella¡¯s voice hung in the air when something crossed her mind. She narrowed her eyes, looking at him.


    Bella opened her mouth a few times, but her words stuck on the tip of her tongue¡ªshe was too afraid to express her scary thoughts.


    "Why are you looking at me as if you want to pierce me with your sharp gaze?" Isaac was amused, seeing Bella¡¯s expression. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, how you said everything makes me think you might leave me forever soon. Are you, Grandpa?" Bella asked, her voice trembling with worry. "Did something happen to your health?" She couldn¡¯t help but feel like her grandfather was speaking his final words, which scared her.


    "Ha-ha-ha, you are so funny, My Dear Bella." Isaac couldn¡¯t help but laugh when he realized what his granddaughter was trying to say.


    Bella was speechless, looking at her Grandfather laughing out loud like he usually did while watching Mr. Bean¡¯s movie.


    Tristan also felt worried after hearing Isaac¡¯s words; he seemed to know his age would end soon. But when he saw Isaac laugh, he felt confused.


    Just before Tristan wanted to ask, Isaac suddenly spoke, "My dear Bella, why do you think I will die soon?" He said while shaking his head, amused. He continued his sentence, "Your Grandpa is still healthy and strong. I won¡¯t die soon. Not until I attend my great-grandson Dax¡¯s wedding."


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m serious, okay!" Bella said with a flat expression. Dax is not even five; her grandfather hopes to attend his wedding. Gosh!


    "I¡¯m serious, too. Bella, I¡¯m still healthy. If you don¡¯t believe me, I will give you my personal doctor¡¯s phone number. You can check with him¡­" Isaac smiled to reassure her.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything else, but seeing how serious her Grandfather was now relieved her.


    "Alright, it¡¯s ten. I need to sleep now," Isaac said before he stood from his seat and asked Bella and Tristan to return to their home.


    But before they left, Isaac asked them to send Dax to breakfast with him. He really misses his great-grandson.


    ...


    Before long,


    Bella and Tristan returned to their house. Holding hands, they walked down the dark and quiet street. The half-moon in the sky and the street lamp made the vibe around them feel romantic.


    However, a few minutes after leaving Isaac¡¯s house, Tristan, who had been silent since he left Isaac¡¯s house, suddenly stopped his step, causing Bella to look up to meet his gloomy gaze.


    "What is it, hubby? Why do you look so sad? Is there something bothering you?" She asked worriedly.


    "Mmm...there is," Tristan said, taking a deep breath before continuing his words. Can you not ask Grandpa for money? Please, just ask me if you need it. I¡¯m your husband. My responsibility is to help you. I would be so jealous if you asked him..."

 Chapter 240: Jealous Husband

    Bella chuckled, hearing Tristan¡¯s sentence.


    While smiling lovingly at him, Bella slowly raised her hand and pinched his tall, sharp nose, teasing him.


    "My jealous husband, have you ever heard the phrase ¡¯small talk¡¯? I¡¯m just making small talk with my Grandpa, alright! There¡¯s no way I can ask him for money. Of course, I will ask you..."


    Tristan¡¯s gloomy eyes gradually brightened as if a flame had reignited within him. He was happy to hear her answer.


    "I haven¡¯t spent any of the money you sent me when we..." Bella didn¡¯t continue her words. She skipped uttering those words again.


    Bella continued, "And the money I got from selling the house is still in my bank account," she stated nonchalantly, unaware of her husband¡¯s reaction. "I plan to use this money to put an end to my uncle and father¡¯s wicked actions. I hope you don¡¯t have any objections if I use this money for that purpose."


    Once more, the light in Tristan¡¯s eyes faded when he heard her words.


    Instantly, memories from five years ago filled his mind, and he felt like a thousand nails piercing his heart.


    He quietly took a deep breath before he placed his hands on Bella¡¯s waist and pulled her closer to his waist.


    For a moment, he rested his chin on her head while scolding himself in his mind because he had forgotten to discuss the financial arrangements with her. As his legal wife, Bella had the right to know and receive money from him.


    "My dear wife, I don¡¯t mind. You have the right to use the money I give you for anything..." Tristan softly said that while loosening his embrace and tilting his face slightly to get a better look at her face.


    "Thank you, Hubby." She smiled at him. He responded by lovingly rubbing her cheek.


    However, a few seconds later, Tristan takes a deep breath before saying, "And I want to apologize to you..."


    Tristan¡¯s sorry tone caused Bella to look up to meet his sad gaze. "Apologized? For what?" she asked.


    "I forgot to discuss my money and all my assets with you. I promise you that tomorrow, I will ask my investment manager to meet with us and discuss this matter..."


    Bella chuckled inwardly, hearing his words. Somehow, she felt slightly awkward discussing this matter with him. She never thought of asking Tristan for anything because she also had money.


    Tristan continued before Bella could say something, "Don¡¯t worry, dear. I will give you all my money. You can use the money to buy whatever you want."


    Bella, "..."


    "Oh please, Mr. Sinclair... Stop flattering me with your sweet words," Bella smiled slightly while rolling her eyes. "If you give me all your money... What about you?"


    "I don¡¯t need anything else but you," his hands wrapped around her.


    Bella tries hard to hold her laugh, hearing his cheesy lines.


    "Sir, did you forget you gave me your black card?" She narrowed her eyes on him. "So the money there is limited?"


    "Ah¡ª" Tristan suddenly remembered the first time they met. He gave her his Black Card to use to buy their son clothes. "You¡¯re right...I gave you that. Don¡¯t worry, my darling wife... The money on the card is enough to buy anything you want."


    "Thank you, Mr. Sinclair. I will use your cards wisely..." She leaned her head on his chest, feeling happy when she saw Tristan¡¯s eyes were no longer gloomy. She could see the smile reaching his eyes.


    "My sexy wife," Tristan whispered near her ear, "Let¡¯s go home to make a little sister for Dax..."


    "W-What..." Bella let go of her hug and looked at him, shocked. She had forgotten how many times Tristan wanted to cancel his own plans. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gosh!


    ****


    While in East City.


    Jacob Donovan paced back and forth in his home office, pinching his temples. He felt dizzy because of the day¡¯s events.


    He had wasted precious time waiting for Bradley¡¯s men, who were sent to capture Bella. However, after hours of waiting, they still hadn¡¯t provided any updates.


    This situation seemed very strange to him.


    How could a capable underground organization fail to capture a weak girl like Bella?


    Did someone sabotage their work?


    Or did Bella herself pay double what Bradley paid those gangsters!?


    Jacob Donovan felt even more headaches when thinking about this matter.


    Ever since he returned from Bradley¡¯s office, now nearly hitting ten, he was still curious about why Bradley¡¯s people were suddenly missing in action.


    Jacob thought those gangsters betrayed Bradley. But Bradley doubted it; it was impossible. He insisted his people would never betray him.


    What made Jacob even more stressed was that Bradley no longer cared about the good news about Bella; instead, he started worrying that those people would reveal their identities if they were caught.


    "Brother, you are giving me a headache!" Lucas Donovan said, annoyed.


    When Lucas saw Jacob stop walking and look at him, he continued, "Stop waiting for news from Bradley. It¡¯s not important anymore to think about it..."


    "What do you mean!?" Jacob frowned deeply, confused by his words.


    "Brother Jacob, what¡¯s Bro Lucas trying to say? You have to sit now. And let¡¯s talk about what¡¯s next..." Thomas Donovan, the younger, chimed in. He also started to feel dizzy, looking at his older brother walking like an ironing machine.


    Jacob sneered, looking displeased as he joined them in the seating area. He sat opposite Lucas and Thomas.


    He didn¡¯t rush to say anything, but his eyes focused on Lucas briefly before he asked, "Lucas, why do you seem so happy to know Bradley¡¯s people failed to bring Bella back to this city!? Are you trying to back out from our plan now?"


    "Bro Jacob, I didn¡¯t support this method from the start. It would be better for us to convince Father, but you insisted on following Bradley¡¯s idea." Lucas took a deep sigh.


    "You¡ª" Jacob couldn¡¯t continue his words. He was annoyed, but what Lucas said was true. This method exposed them to uncalculated danger.


    Lucas smiled bitterly before continuing, "Bro, I won¡¯t back out of the plan. We owe Bradley now; forcing my stupid daughter to marry him is the only way our company will survive..."

 Chapter 241: Torture Anyone Who Harm Her!

    The next morning.


    After taking Bella to her office, Tristan did not head straight to his own. Instead, the car sped away from the business street and left the city.


    Almost an hour¡¯s drive on the highway towards the city border, the car finally left the road.


    Later, the car passed through the empty two-lane street.


    Houses or buildings around the road were barely visible, and only a few cars passed.


    After driving for two miles, the car made another turn and left the paved road.


    The location was extremely remote, and there were no other cars except for Tristan¡¯s car.


    Before long,


    The car passed through a large gate guarded by several well-built men. After passing through the gate, the car went back onto a road lined with tall and dense trees.


    Several minutes passed...


    Finally, the car stopped in front of a simple-looking red brick house. The building looked elongated and had only one level. A black SUV was parked in front of the house.


    Tristan immediately stepped out of the car. Reid, who appeared behind the brown wooden door, approached and greeted him politely. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sir, welcome..."


    Reid bowed slightly towards Tristan, to which Tristan responded with a slight nod. Then he glanced somewhat at Dylan behind Tristan to flash his small smile before he continued his words.


    "Please come in, sir... those people are already waiting downstairs."


    He gestured to Tristan to enter first before he followed behind him.


    Tristan, followed by Dylan and Reid, walked towards the rear of the house, making their way to the elevator located in the corner.


    Shortly after, the elevator descended, and after a few seconds, the doors opened, revealing a bright corridor with white walls and concrete floors.


    The corridor was flanked by black doors facing each other, like passing through a corridor in a hotel.


    "Sir, will you meet Laura Kiels¡¯ manager or the gangsters?" Reid asked.


    "I need to meet the gangsters!" Tristan answered in a low voice, but Dylan and Reid, who were walking behind him, could hear the anger in his tone.


    "Their room, at the end, 101..." Reid said as he stepped up in front of Tristan and opened the door for him after entering various passwords and fingerprints. The iron door creaking slowly sounded as the door opened, and the light automatically turned on.


    The gray-painted windowless room was not very big. Still, it was spacious enough to accommodate seven men lying on the floor in terrible condition. The sound of the door creaking open made all of them turn toward the door.


    Their eyes widened in surprise when they saw the figure of the tall man they usually saw on the news, Tristan Sinclair, appear before them.


    Tristan, with his deadpan expression, entered the room. He saw that their condition was still the same as he had seen yesterday in the park. The difference was that a few of them had basic bandages to stop the bleeding.


    He stopped right in the middle of the room, a few meters away from the seven men who were now staring at him in shock. He ignored them as he turned to Reid beside him.


    "Which one attacked my wife?"


    Tristan¡¯s low voice was clear enough for the seven men on the floor, who immediately made small sounds as if they were cursing in their hearts to get the answer that had been bothering them all night.


    They talked about why this man had appeared in the park!? Now, they knew that their target was Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife.


    "Those four..." Reid pointed to the right side of the room.


    "Drag them here!" Tristan said coldly, looking at the four men now knee and staring at him in fear. He would not forgive people who would hurt his wife, even if it was only in their minds.


    Reid narrowed his eyes at the four men in the corner. "All of you..." he said coldly. "Come here yourselves, or I will drag you by force. You choose!"


    The four men immediately dragged their bodies closer to Tristan.


    "Mr. Sinclair, please forgive us. Give us your mercy, please, sir." A hoarse and low voice came from one of the men, who was now three steps away from Tristan.


    "Yes, sir... Please, please don¡¯t kill us."


    "I will do anything for you, sir... If you let us live."


    "I beg you, sir, spare our lives..."


    Reid hissed in annoyance, listening to their stupid pleas.


    "One more word from your dirty mouths, and I¡¯ll break the rest of your bodies!" Reid warned them sternly.


    Instantly, their pleading disappeared.


    The room fell silent again, but their worried expressions were still clearly visible in their eyes.


    They all knelt on the ground, holding onto the nameless pain that still tortured their minds and bodies now. But they didn¡¯t dare make a sound. They all wait in fear for Tristan to speak.


    "You guys want to hurt my wife?" Tristan said in a cold tone that seemed to lower the temperature around him, causing all the men on the floor to feel their blood run cold.


    "Sir, we didn¡¯t know the madam was your wife," the leader of the gangsters answered him immediately. "If I know, I will not accept this job."


    "That¡¯s right, sir. What my leader said was true..."


    "Yes, sir, we wouldn¡¯t have taken this job if our employer had informed us about it. But there was no such information about our target."


    "True, true... We would have refused if we knew she was your wife!"


    "Please forgive us, sir...we beg you..." The man¡¯s voice trembles in fear.


    Tristan pretended to scratch his ear with his index finger as if he didn¡¯t like hearing them talk so much.


    Instantly, the four men pressed their lips again, afraid to speak. They froze when they saw Tristan¡¯s displeased expression.


    After a few seconds, Tristan spoke again, "If you guys hadn¡¯t done bad things, you wouldn¡¯t have accepted this job, right?" his cold gaze returned to their stare.


    The four men nodded with their mouths pressed tightly, not daring to make a sound.

 Chapter 242: Dealing With His Wife’s Enemy (1)

    The four men nodded with their mouths pressed tightly, not daring to make a sound.


    At first, they thought Tristan Sinclair would forgive them. They immediately wanted to thank him for his kindness and mercy. But then their sentences stopped on the tip of their tongues when they heard Tristan Sinclair¡¯s following sentence.


    "But... because you all almost hurt my wife, I can¡¯t accept your apology. My wife was traumatized by your actions... she is scared every time she remembers what happened in the park." Tristan said casually, but all the gangsters were speechless to hear that.


    They could only vent their sarcasm in their minds while looking at Tristan Sinclair in horror.


    ¡¯Traumatized? Seriously? We are the ones who should be traumatized, sir!¡¯ One of the gangsters thought.


    ¡¯What the fuck!? Boss Tristan, come on... how could you say your wife is having trauma??¡¯


    ¡¯Can you make another excuse, sir? Your wife is such a demoness... She kicked me until my knee was crushed, and I couldn¡¯t stand up straight.¡¯


    They did not believe it because they saw how fast and talented Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife was. She subdued them in mere minutes.


    The woman they met in the park is definitely not an ordinary woman but someone who has learned martial arts from birth or just graduated from a military camp.


    Looking at them staring at him in horror, Tristan gradually feels in a good mood. He continues his words, "So, you guys also have to feel what it¡¯s like to be traumatized and scared..."


    All the gangsters were rendered speechless. They wanted to beg for forgiveness, but seeing the look in Tristan Sinclair¡¯s eyes, their wish faded. It was useless; Tristan Sinclair had already decided their punishment and fate before he arrived here.


    They could only wait for what Tristan Sinclair wanted to do with them. But whatever it was, they hoped Tristan Sinclair wouldn¡¯t take their lives.


    ...


    Tristan glanced at Reid beside him, leaned closer, and whispered, "Beat them all again. Make sure you don¡¯t kill them, but give them the pain they will never forget."


    After giving clear instructions, Tristan moved a few steps behind to give Reid room to beat them all. He would not dirty his hands and feet on lowly people like them.


    Crossing his arms before his chest, Tristan¡¯s eyes were cold as he watched Reid kick all the gangsters until they became even more battered.


    The wounds that had not yet dried tore again, and fresh blood flowed. There were no words that could escape from their lips; only howls of pain could be heard.


    Reid beat them mercilessly as if they were his punching bag. However, he didn¡¯t aim for vital spots to endanger their lives.


    After hearing their howls of pain slowly fade as if they all no longer had the energy to scream, Tristan raised his hand, signaling Reid to stop.


    Then, Tristan¡¯s eyes fixed on the leader of the gangsters. His cold gaze was enough to make the man unable to meet Tristan¡¯s eyes; he lowered his gaze and looked at Tristan¡¯s shiny leather brown shoes.


    "Return to whoever fools employ your¡­service. Tell them that they have messed with the wrong, possibly deadly, enemy." Tristan¡¯s voice turned icy, and his eyes radiated with disgust.


    He continued, "You can tell them my name, but what you saw in the park and here, keep it in your mind and heart, take it to your grave. If there¡¯s a rumor about it, I¡¯ll assume all of you here are the ones who leaked it, and I¡¯ll hunt you all down. You all know you can¡¯t hide from me, right?"


    "Ye¡­Yes, s¡­s¡­sir!!" they all stuttered weakly. They were glad, but at the same time, they were also confused.


    The gangster leader was utterly confused to hear Tristan Sinclair¡¯s order. He didn¡¯t expect this man to let them go, even asking to mention his name to the person who paid them.


    ¡¯Why did he do that? He is supposed to hide his identity, too, right? No one knows he has a wife...¡¯ The gangster leader tried to find the answer. Still, when Tristan¡¯s face turned dark again, he immediately put aside his curiosity. He didn¡¯t want to upset this man, so he quickly nodded.


    "Yes, sir. I will do as you say. I will tell the person who pays me about your name," said the gangster leader. He¡¯s not afraid of Bradley Caville; however, he would never betray this man, Tristan Sinclair. If he betrayed Tristan Sinclair, the man would not let him stay in this country, or worse. A man as powerful as Tristan Sinclair could easily end anyone who dared to hurt him or anyone he loved.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer but glanced at the three men in the corner. Then he looked at Reid.


    "Beat them too! Even though they didn¡¯t do anything to my wife, I heard they have an eye on her. I can¡¯t stand someone seeing my wife with their dirty mind!"


    "Yes, sir!" Reid nodded. "Is there anything else?"


    Tristan stopped in his tracks before he got out of the door. He turned to look at the gangster leader and then looked at everyone in the room one by one in their eyes. His gaze was sharp and frightening, making them all seem frozen.


    "If I see you guys after this, I will not be this merciful! So, remember to get out of this city immediately!"


    "Y¡­YES, YES... SIR!" Simultaneously, the seven gangsters shouted while lowering their heads until they touched the floor.


    ...


    Tristan no longer looked back. He walked out of the room and saw Dylan and a few guards in black tactical uniforms standing near the room. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where is he?" Tristan asked Dylan as he walked down the corridor towards the elevator.


    "Room 107, sir," answered one of the guards waiting with Dylan.


    Tristan¡¯s steps stopped in front of the room. Dylan entered the room first after the guard opened the door for them, and Tristan followed behind him.

 Chapter 243: Dealing With His Wife’s Enemy (2)

    Room 107 looked different from the room where the gangster was detained.


    It resembled an interrogation room at a police station, with a table in the middle and four chairs facing each other. A yellow lamp hung above the table.


    The dominant navy blue-colored wall made the room vibe seem gloomy.


    Robert, Laura Kiels¡¯ manager, instantly stood up from his seat when he saw the door swing open and saw a man wearing glasses enter the room.


    His anger flared. After a few hours isolated in this room, he felt his patience thinning like paper.


    Detained in this room, Robert felt like a suspect about to be interrogated. Yet, the investigators left him alone to stress him out. When he could no longer hold his patience, someone entered the room, causing his face to turn red as all his blood seemed to rush to his face.


    "So, you¡¯re the bastard who locked me up for days in this damn place? Why did you do it!? What was my fault for making me feel like a criminal?" Robert said, pointing to the man wearing glasses before him.


    Dylan was speechless. But he remained calm, ignoring Robert¡¯s cursing.


    "Who are you? Why are you detaining me here? I will report you to the police because¡ª" Instantly, Robert¡¯s voice trailed off as soon as his eyes saw the figure of a tall man behind the man wearing glasses.


    ¡¯Huh!? This man...? Why does he look familiar...¡¯ Robert wondered while narrowing his eyes at the man, trying to look clearly.


    It didn¡¯t take long; he knew who the man was, ¡¯Tristan Sinclair...¡¯


    Instantly, Robert felt all the muscles in his body betray him. His legs went limp, barely able to support his large body. He slumped in his chair; he could feel his body suddenly turning cold, frightened.


    ¡¯Tristan Sinclair was actually the person who captured me? Why? Why does this man detain me here?¡¯


    Robert tried to find the answers to all the questions running through his mind, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn¡¯t find the answers.


    He was puzzled.


    Utterly puzzled.


    Robert started to feel worried because Laura Kiels, his boss, always used this person¡¯s name to spread gossip between them. And as Laura¡¯s manager, he knew Laura didn¡¯t have a romantic relationship with Tristan Sinclair.


    They had only created gossip so that Laura¡¯s popularity would always be a trending topic on all Internet news and social media sites.


    ¡¯Oh, God! I hope this man doesn¡¯t know about it.¡¯ Robert prayed inwardly while looking at Tristan.


    Robert¡¯s sweaty hands clenched into fists as he saw Tristan stop his step and stand a few paces before the table. He felt all his blood leave his face as he saw Tristan¡¯s disgusted gaze fix on him.


    Feeling nervous, Robert could only swallow to wet his suddenly dry throat.


    Waiting for a few seconds to pass by without Tristan saying anything was enough to make Robert feel tortured.


    "Mr... Mr... Sinclair, why? Why are you detaining me here?" Robert¡¯s voice trembled. He was too afraid to face this man because he knew he and Laura had created many rumors about him.


    Now, Robert continued to pray this man didn¡¯t know what they had done in the past.


    But¡­


    Wait!


    ¡¯Tristan Sinclair must be aware, right!? That¡¯s why he captured me and detained me here?¡¯


    Slowly, Robert¡¯s eyes widened in horror as he saw Tristan.


    ¡¯Damn it!! This is my end! This man definitely will torture me...¡¯


    Robert feels like wanted to cry. He tried to hold his shaking hand under the table, waiting for Tristan to say something.


    But after a minute passed, Robert could only see Tristan standing where he was without saying anything. His hands were tucked into his trouser pockets, and his cold charisma made Robert even more anxious.


    ....


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer right away. He walked closer to the table, stopping two steps before it. His eyes were still sharp, looking at Robert.


    After being satisfied looking, the man in front of him was sitting restlessly. Tristan said in an unhurried tone, "I will ask you one thing, and your answer will affect your fate... I hope you answer honestly. Are you ready?"


    Robert blinked for a moment before he nodded quickly.


    "Yes, yes, Mr. Sinclair. I¡¯m ready...please, please ask anything, I will answer you..." He answered quickly.


    Whatever Tristan Sinclair¡¯s question, he would answer it honestly. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Robert knew he couldn¡¯t make a mistake in front of this man, or his life would be in danger.


    "Good! Was the idea of hiring a buzzer to attack Stellar Entertainment purely your idea?"


    Tristan¡¯s question was straightforward; he only needed to find evidence that Laura Kiels was involved in this matter. They couldn¡¯t find anything after monitoring all her gadgets and communication devices, including her email. Laura Kiels seems to know that her cell phone and email were monitored.


    Instantly, Robert felt all his limbs frozen hearing Tristan Sinclair¡¯s question.


    ¡¯How did Tristan Sinclair know about it?¡¯ This question immediately filled Robert¡¯s mind.


    It¡¯s hard for him to believe because he was confident that he had completely covered his tracks. No one will be able to track that he paid for all the buzzers.


    Robert clenched his hands under the table. He was trying to find the correct answer. He couldn¡¯t talk randomly because he would be in trouble if he exposed Laura Kiels.


    "Y-Yes... It was my idea, sir..." Robert answered briefly.


    He had no other choice but to answer like that. He couldn¡¯t possibly reveal the truth because if Laura Kiels asked her fianc¨¦ to get rid of him, he would die instantly.


    A thin, cold smile emerged from the corner of Tristan¡¯s lips, hearing Robert¡¯s answer. His hand slowly raised while he stroked his eyebrows, feeling displeased.


    Seconds later, he muttered softly, "Beat him!"


    Two men, no less big than Robert, entered the room. Their aura was like someone ready to kill their prey, making Robert widen his eyes in surprise when he saw them marching toward him.


    "Sir... Mr. Sinclair... Why are you asking them to beat¡ª"

 Chapter 244: Dealing With His Wife’s Enemy (3)

    Robert widened his eyes in surprise when he saw them marching toward him.


    "Sir... Mr. Sinclair... Why are you asking them to beat¡ª" His words faded as the mighty fist of one of the large men standing beside him landed on his cheek, causing his head to tilt at a ninety-degree angle.


    He let out a loud howl¡ªas the nameless pain could be felt on his face¡ªechoing throughout the room.


    Before Robert raised his head, the other man¡¯s fist hit the other side of his cheek with the same force. A roar of pain sounded once again, this time louder than before.


    "Arghh¡­"


    The more Robert screamed in agony because of the pain he felt, the stronger the punch landed on his cheeks. It was as if these two men were punching him as punishment for the noise he created.


    Gradually, Robert no longer had the energy to cry and scream in pain. Instead, he tasted metal in his mouth, and warm liquid slowly dripped down the edge of his lips and onto the white floor.


    ¡¯Blood!?¡¯ Robert whispered while wiping the warm liquid in the corner of his lips and was surprised to see so much fresh blood on his palm.


    Robert looked up to see Tristan with teary eyes.


    "S-Sir, Mr. Sinclair, I will answer you... But please ask your men to stop punching me. ARGHHH...." He howled while crying in pain as the two men continued to hit him.


    Robert can¡¯t do anything now. He can only try to endure the torture they give him. The howls continued to tear the silence of the room.


    After a few seconds, he coughed heavily.


    "Coughs!"


    He vomited blood several times, and his eyes started to shed tears again; he couldn¡¯t stand this torture. He would rather die than endure this.


    "Please just kill me... Sir... Please... I can¡¯t hold this pain anymore..." Robert said between sobs. A few seconds later, his loud cry echoed again when he saw that several of his teeth had now fallen to the floor.


    Tristan didn¡¯t make any sounds; his eyes were still fixed on Robert, but he ignored his miserable plea.


    "Mr. Sinclair, Sir...please stop..." Robert raised both hands to protect his face from their punches.


    "Speak!" Tristan said, and at the same time, his men stopped throwing punches at Robert¡¯s face.


    Robert¡¯s huge body shook as he saw Tristan. "La-Laura Kiels, who asked me to do it."


    "I need evidence! If you don¡¯t have one, then it¡¯s useless..."


    "Sir, I can provide proof. I have Laura Kiels¡¯ voice recording when she asks me to pay several internet buzzers and social media influencers to slander Stellar Entertainment." Robert was no longer trying to hide anything; he didn¡¯t care about Laura anymore.


    Tristan chuckled inwardly when he saw Robert¡¯s unrecognizable face. Fresh blood dripped from his nose, and his eyes looked red. His cheeks started to look blue and swollen.


    "You should have answered me like this from the start. If you had, my people would not have beaten you..." Tristan said coldly. "I need the recording voice. You can tell my man where you saved it..." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, sir. I will..." Robert answered quickly, nodding.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything. He left the room without looking at Robert again. In front of the room, he met Reid. After giving Reid some instructions, he left the dungeon with Dylan, heading to his office.


    He had many things to do, especially arranging plans for his short honeymoon with his wife.


    ****


    Meanwhile, at Quantum Capital, around the same time,


    Bella was meeting with Leo in her office.


    However, before Bella opened the meeting to discuss work, Leo spoke first.


    And he was not talking about work. Leo barrages her with several questions that are not related to office matters.


    Instead, he wanted to know everything she knew about the people who had tried to kidnap her and who had hired and sent them.


    Leo has been curious since yesterday, but Bella hasn¡¯t revealed anything about it. When he asked Sam, the big guy admitted that he was as clueless as him.


    All night, Leo lacked sleep because his mind didn¡¯t stop making him curious about these matters.


    His eyes narrowed at Bella before he spoke in a serious tone.


    "Don¡¯t try to hide anything from me, Bella. I am your trusted person in the company; you have to tell me who your enemy is so that I can prepare for the worst if something like yesterday happens again in the future."


    Bella silently took a deep sigh, hearing his words.


    After yesterday¡¯s incident in the park, Bella feels even more trust in Leo. This man throws his life to protect her, something she never expected to happen.


    Seeing Leo¡¯s expression slowly change from calm to tense, she decides to tell him everything.


    "The mastermind behind all that was my first uncle. He plotted with the Dawson Group owner¡­"


    Bella tells him how her father received the marriage proposal from his friend, Bradley Caville, the Dawson Group owner. That person actually sent a gangster to capture her and plan to bring her back to the East to finalize the marriage.


    Later,


    Bella finished explaining what had happened in her family and how it was related to her kidnap attempt.


    She was expecting Leo to come up with several more questions afterward.


    But Leo didn¡¯t say anything. He stared blankly at her with a deadpan expression as if lost in his perplexed thoughts.


    She chuckled before loudly saying, "What the hell with your expression, Leo Smith? Did someone or something suddenly possess your soul?"


    Leo took a few seconds to understand Bella¡¯s whole story. After a while, he shook his head, not believing what he heard. It sounded absurd for him to know that Bella¡¯s family, or some of her family, was actually evil and thought very little about her rights!


    "Bella, I feel sorry for you. How could you have such evil people in your family? And, did your uncle court death¡­ to send a gangster to capture you?" Leo asked, confused.

 Chapter 245: Leo’s Past

    "Indeed! My uncle, Jacob Donovan, was the most evil person I ever encountered in this mortal world. The same with my father..."


    Bella bitterly smiles, talking about her own family. She feels ashamed.


    "True... True...I could feel how terrible it must be for you," Leo feels even more sorry with her.


    However, later, Leo frowned when something suddenly crossed his mind.


    "Bella, no one in East City knows about your relationship with Boss Tristan?" Leo asked, puzzled.


    If her family knew about her relationship with Tristan Sinclair, they would be unable to arrange another marriage for her, right?


    Bella shrugs, "Mmm, I don¡¯t know for sure. I hate being presumptuous, but yeah¡­ my best guess is that no one knows about it."


    "I see. That would explain how they had the guts to do that in the first place. Now, I¡¯m curious what will happen to them. Will the mighty Boss Tristan take revenge on the evil people in your family?"


    Bella, "..."


    She asked Tristan not to touch her family because she already had an articulate plan to deal with them.


    "My husband will not do anything to my family. But... he might punish those old men, Bradley Caville."


    "Why? Boss Tristan should do something, or they will arrange a marriage for you to another man again..."


    A faint smile slowly spread across Bella¡¯s lips as she heard Leo¡¯s words. She already had a solid plan for her own family. Still, now she just realized that Tristan would likely punish the Dawson Group in his own way.


    Bella never really planned a punishment for Dawson Group. But, if she has to deal with the Dawson Group, she will strike where it hurts the most and ruin their revenue base.


    She will ensure the group suffers heavy losses and files for bankruptcy. Then, she will immediately acquire the company cheaply, keep its good employees, and eliminate the bad ones.


    ¡¯Bradley Caville, how dare you ask my father to marry me!? I already thought of you as my uncle. How shameless!¡¯


    Bella can¡¯t help but vent her sarcasm in her mind, feeling annoyed with that old man. She hopes Tristan will punish him severely.


    "Because I already have plans for my own family. Meanwhile, Tristan will handle Bradley Caville." A sinister smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips, making Leo chuckle.


    But later, Leo asked again...


    "Boss, why do I feel curious about all gangsters? Where did all the gangsters end up?"


    Leo¡¯s curious gaze becomes more noticeable when he remembers those gangsters from yesterday¡ªTristan¡¯s guard cleans up the crime scene and takes care of all of the gangsters.


    Bella instantly remembers all the gangsters.


    This morning, she forgot to ask Tristan.


    "Alright, stop talking about my shameless family and those weak gangsters..."


    A soft chuckle rang in the room when the memory of beating them filled her mind. The excitement warmed her blood again, feeling the adrenaline rush.


    "Damn it!! How could I forget?"


    "Forget? About what?" Bella asked.


    Leo¡¯s smile completely vanished from his lips. He narrows his eyes, looking at Bella, curious about her ability to kick those four gangsters effortlessly and how she could snatch a gun from a man that fast.


    "Bella, tell me¡­ since when did you learn to use your feet and hands to beat bad people?"


    He clearly remembers when they were still in college; this girl was the weakest in their group. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yesterday, he felt like he saw a different person when Bella confidently beat all those gangsters. Her movements were fast and powerful. She could subdue a massive man with only one kick.


    Leo even wonders if Bella is more powerful than him.


    "My strength increased because I lived in a beautiful but harsh environment in North Sweden. You see, the house I lived in didn¡¯t have running water. So, Aunty Noora and I always carried water from the lake to our house..." Bella answers Leo nonchalantly.


    "The most tiring thing I did when I stayed there was to clear the walking path from the snow for nearly a half mile. Gosh, this is more tiring than exercise. I think, because of that hard, manual labor, my strength and stamina had been greatly increased," she continues to convince him to believe her and stop asking.


    Bella didn¡¯t want to tire herself out by explaining that she had actually learned Krav Maga and Tae Kwon Do. And given Leo¡¯s interest in martial arts, they would likely spend their mornings only discussing it.


    Leo, "¡­"


    He was rendered speechless.


    "Tsk¡­Tsk¡­ Boss, do you think I¡¯m Dax? Did you think I would easily fall for your hard-to-believed story?"


    He narrowed his eyes.


    "C¡¯mon, be honest with me, Boss¡­I mean, no way hard labor could make anyone suddenly very good at kicking gang members¡¯ butt!"


    Bella laughed inwardly when she saw Leo¡¯s annoyed expression. But she ignored him anyway. She would not explain anything about it.


    "How about you? When we were still in college, I remember you were a pacifist who hated violence. And I remember you said you would never learn martial arts and trusted the police to protect you. Am I right?"


    "Oh¡­you remember? Okay¡­Yeah..."


    "Since when have you learned martial arts!? And why did you suddenly go into physical exercise?" Bella narrowed her eyes, looking at him.


    In the past, Leo hated exercise. He chose to study over everything, which is why Bella has a crush on him.


    In Bella¡¯s eyes, Leo is a perfect man, intelligent and handsome. However, despite having a beautiful face and an awesome brain, Leo lacks self-confidence because he always sees himself as a lowly person from a low-income family.


    Leo is an orphan. When he was five years old, a family adopted him. However, when he was in his teens, that family went bankrupt, and they became toxic toward him. So, he ran from their house and lived on the street.


    One day, Leo met Jack Foster while struggling with his life. Jack is the one who helps Leo, gives him shelter, pays for his education, and finally helps him to where he is now.


    "Since our lovely boss forced me to learn martial arts, he encouraged me to learn to lift up my confidence..."


    Leo bitterly smiles and remembers those times. However, he will never blame Jack because what Jack did to him ultimately benefited him.


    "Hmmm, what a story, Leo. Life must¡¯ve been very challenging in your teens. But I¡¯m glad you ended up well!" Bella sincerely said. She feels happy for Leo. He is indeed different now.


    "Yeah, life was not so kind to me in the beginning. But¡­yeah¡­, I¡¯m glad I met the right people, including you, Boss." He answers her awkwardly.

 Chapter 246: Hiding His Real Identity

    "Yeah, life was not so kind to me in the beginning. But¡­yeah¡­, I¡¯m glad I met the right people, including you, Boss." Leo answers her awkwardly.


    "Alright, enough with the chit-chat. Let¡¯s talk about work..." Bella said softly, but her eyes stared thoughtfully at Leo as if she signaled him to return to discussing work.


    That gaze caused Leo to nod in a hurry.


    ...


    They started discussing Stefan¡¯s arrival. Bella already assigned Leo to prepare Stefan¡¯s place and temporary office during his stay in this city.


    She hears everything about the progress in silence.


    "His bedroom is already ready upstairs... Overall, everything is ready. His office has also finished. We only need to buy a high-tech computer for him..." Leo explained.


    "There is no need to buy anything. Let him buy himself because only he knows what he needs. You only need to provide him with space and funds..." Suddenly, she paused for a while as if thinking about something.


    After several seconds, Bella looks at Leo again, "Leo, you don¡¯t need to ask for money from the company. Just ask me. I will use my personal money for what Stefan needs during his stay here..."


    Leo was confused as to why she suddenly changed her mind. And why does she use her own money?


    "Bella, I know you are super rich, and your husband is too. However, it does not feel right if you use your own money." Leo expresses his concern for her.


    "Stefan is also here to work for the company and not merely handle your personal matters. I think Jack or Harper will be OK if you use company money for him, right?" His eyes narrowed as he looked at her, curious to know her reason.


    Bella chuckled when she realized Leo didn¡¯t actually understand her.


    She couldn¡¯t risk Stefan¡¯s identity. He is their precious asset, their top hacker in the company. If his identity were exposed, his life would become a target for evil people outside. Someone might even kidnap or eliminate him.


    That¡¯s why Jack has been overprotective of Stefan since he joined the company; only a few people know his real name, and others know that Stefan is Jack Foster¡¯s assistant, using an alias named Gael Foster.


    Stefan uses Jack¡¯s last name to tell people that he still has a family relationship with Jack Foster and to prevent people from asking about him further.


    "You must know that Stefan¡¯s identity was top secret, right?" When she saw him nod, she continued. "If we use company money to set up his temporary office, many eyes will be curious why we built a super advanced computer room in this building," Bella explained.


    Leo suddenly understands Bella¡¯s reason. Indeed, a few people in the company, especially in the finance department, will know about him.


    "OK, Boss. I understand¡­"


    "Thank you. How about his flight?"


    "He already emailed me his flight schedule. He will land tomorrow at 10 a.m..."


    "Good," said Bella excitedly because she would be working alongside Stefan again, like before. She really needed him now to help her take care of her personal matters and many other things at Quantum Capital.


    Leo asked Bella, "Are you sure you can go to the airport tomorrow? Did your hubby know about it?"


    He doubted whether Bella could come with them to pick up Stefan. Following yesterday¡¯s incident, Tristan may not allow her to go to public spaces like the airport.


    Bella¡¯s expression slowly turned worried, hearing Leo¡¯s words. She knew what he was trying to say.


    This morning, she heard from Sam that five people, Tristan¡¯s guards, had been added to this building; they would guard her.


    Tristan¡¯s people will follow her around if she plans to go to the airport tomorrow. It would be a hassle to visit the airport with many people following her around, right!?


    Two people are still OK. But five? That¡¯s too much. People who saw her in the airport with five bodyguards following her probably thought she was a Hollywood movie star or a K-pop idol.


    Bella slowly shook her head, trying to shake off those pictures in her mind.


    Gosh!


    She hated too much attention from other people.


    ¡¯It looks like I need to discuss this matter with Tristan.¡¯


    Silently taking a deep sigh, she said, "We will see tomorrow¡­"


    They continued again discussing a few things about Stefan¡¯s arrival arrangement and their subsidiary company.


    Later,


    Leo finally excused himself. However, before Leo could leave, Bella suddenly brought up the matter of Laura Kiels.


    The last information Bella hears is that the police have already arrested a few people who have been spreading hoaxes about their company. But she doesn¡¯t have time to open the Internet to read the public sentiment.


    Instantly, the light in Leo¡¯s eyes turns brighter; he can¡¯t hold it anymore to tell Bella about it. He likes gossiping about those matters.


    "Boss, the news about Stellar is almost gone. But, you won¡¯t believe the NEW trending news out there..." He grinned.


    "Is there any other news that could overtake that woman¡¯s scandal?" She frowned.


    "No. I mean... this isn¡¯t about Laura¡¯s fans but about Laura herself. Before I came here to meet you, the trending topic was discussed; all of Laura Kiels¡¯ social media accounts suddenly disappeared¡ª" Leo stopped talking when something crossed his mind.


    He paused and thought for a moment before asking, "Did you ask Stefan to delete all of Laura Kiels¡¯ social media?"


    "I don¡¯t have much time to deal with Laura Kiels. Imprisoning her cyber army was enough to teach her a lesson and prevent her from returning to the entertainment business," Bella said, shaking her head slowly. "Why do I need to do anything else?" she chuckled.


    "Hahaha...," suddenly Leo laughed. "You are right, Boss... You are right. But this is suspicious; I guess someone messed with her. Is this Boss Tristan¡¯s doing?"


    Bella slightly frowned. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Well, I don¡¯t know either."


    She doubted her husband would do that. Tristan is now busy with his own company and doesn¡¯t have time to deal with lowlifes like Laura Kiels.

 Chapter 247: The Frightened Laura Kiels

    The same day, in the afternoon.


    In one of the large villas, Laura Kiels was pacing in her bedroom.


    Her face looked pale, frightened by the text message she had just received from an unknown phone number.


    Laura had received an odd text message, but when she tried to confirm its contents with her manager, Robert, she discovered that his cell phone was still out of service ¡ª It had been three days since she had been able to contact Robert.


    This was unusual because Robert never turned off his cell phone, so she started to become suspicious.


    The short text message she received a few minutes ago convinced her even more that its contents were actual.


    "What to do? What will I do if Robert really betrays me?"


    She muttered softly as she continued pacing back and forth in the room. Occasionally, she tried to divert her worries, biting the tip of her thumb.


    After a few minutes passed by, suddenly, a deep and charming voice came from the door.


    "What happened, Laura?"


    A deep and charming voice came from the door, making Laura stop in her tracks and turn to see at the door.


    Laura¡¯s lips formed a half-smile as she saw Marco, her fianc¨¦, leaning on the door frame, looking at her. He looked charming in his black turtleneck, which covered his beautiful tattoo on his entire front neck. As she whispered his name, "Ma-Marco... Ba-Be..."


    Her heart raced as she gazed at Marco¡¯s familiar dark hair and intimidating gaze.


    He always claimed her as his own, but she never felt secure in his arms.


    Marco was so mysterious, and Laura struggled to understand his true intentions.


    Despite her fear of his dangerous vibe, she pretended to be obedient and in love with him, concealing her true feelings in her heart.


    "Babe, are you done with your work?" Laura asked, maintaining her Monalisa smile and ignoring his question.


    She tried to appear calm even though her mind was preoccupied with debating whether to ask him for help finding her missing manager.


    Before Laura could open her mouth to speak again, she saw Marco walk towards the seating area. He pulled his sleeves up, revealing his muscular arms, and gracefully sat on the sofa while she stared at him.


    She stood in her place for a few seconds, looking at him with a fearful expression.


    "Why are you looking at me like that, Laura? Is there anything that worries you?" Marco asked, gesturing for her to join him in the seating area. "Come, come, tell me..."


    Laura did not answer immediately but approached the seating area and sat opposite him.


    After thinking quickly, she finally decided to ask Marco for help. Again. She couldn¡¯t ignore the message she received, and suspicion now filled her mind.


    She looked him in the eyes before saying, "Babe, please help me..." Her voice trembled slightly.


    Marco slightly raised his eyebrow, confused by her frightening expression.


    "What is it, Laura?"


    "Someone sent me a message. That person informed me that my manager had turned his back on me. And he also warned me to get ready to end up in jail."


    Laura told him everything about what she did to pay several buzzers and journalists to create negative news and publications about Stellar Entertainment.


    She took another deep sigh before continuing, "Marco, Babe... this time, I really need your help..."


    He didn¡¯t rush to answer her, but his eyes narrowed, staring at her teary eyes.


    Silently, he sighed deeply; remember, this was the second time he had seen her cry and plead for help, and he couldn¡¯t refuse her beg. Not when this sexy and lusty girl could satisfy his need in bed.


    After a few moments, Marco said, "Why are you afraid? As long as I¡¯m here, no one can touch you. Well, unless you offended a certain person more powerful than me."


    Laura immediately shook her head, confirming she didn¡¯t offend the particular family.


    "Marco, don¡¯t worry, not them. I will not try to offend them. My enemy now is Arabella Donovan and her company, Quantum Capital, the same as before."


    "Ah, she is..." A smile emerged from the corner of Marco¡¯s lips. "That¡¯s an easy target. So what do you want me to do?"


    "I¡¯m not asking you to teach Arabella Donovan, not now. But, please trace where Robert is. He has been missing in action for a few days, and his cellphone cannot be contacted. I¡¯m afraid my enemy might have captured him and forced him to¡ª"


    Laura couldn¡¯t continue her words. She was too frightened to imagine if that really happened; Bella forced Robert to give evidence.


    What bothered her now was that if Bella found evidence that she was involved in creating lousy press about her company, she would be in trouble and unable to return to this industry in the future.


    "Okay! I¡¯ll call my people..." Marco calmly responded to her while dialing a number.


    ...


    Before long...


    Marco¡¯s phone rang again.


    He immediately answered the call. It didn¡¯t take long; his face suddenly turned dark when he heard the bad news from his people on the other side.


    A few moments later, Marco ended the call and turned his gaze to Laura, who looked anxious in her seat.


    "My people found your manager. He is at the border, heading to another country. Looks like he¡¯s in a hurry to leave this country."


    "WHAT!? Why? I mean... Why is he running away from me? Something suspicious happened to him, right!?"


    "I think what you¡¯re afraid of is real. He betrayed you¡­ my people said someone forced him to leave this country." Marco took a deep breath, thinking about this unimportant matter. He wanted to ignore it, but since Laura asked, he couldn¡¯t refuse. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing that Robert had betrayed her, Laura clenched her hand into a tight fist.


    "Babe, can I meet him? I need to ask him something important," she said.


    Marco stood up from the chair, "Sure. Let¡¯s go..."


    Laura immediately grabbed her bag and put on her jacket. She followed Marco, who walked ahead while making a call.

 Chapter 248: Run!

    Laura was taken aback when she realized they were boarding the helicopter to visit Robert.


    After twenty minutes of flying, the helicopter landed in a remote location.


    Once they got off the helicopter, Laura followed Marco, who was already walking ahead of her, as they approached a black SUV a few meters away.


    They headed to the location using a car, and after ten minutes, they arrived at a rusty warehouse that looked like it had not been used for a long time.


    Laura was very nervous following Marco inside the rusty warehouse. The vast building was empty, and a few robust men stood in the corner, waiting for them.


    Just before Laura wanted to ask, her eyes fell on a familiar figure she met almost every day. The man¡¯s body was stocky, just like Robert, but his face looked unrecognizable and was covered in wounds.


    Laura was puzzled.


    "Robert!?" She muttered as she continued to approach the man who was sitting on a chair with his body tied to a rope. The man¡¯s eyes looked red, staring back at her.


    Her step stopped a few meters from the man and then looked at Marco, who was standing right before her.


    "Babe, is this man really my manager?" she asked in a low voice.


    Marco nods while smiling at her. And he gestured for one of his people to approach them.


    "L-Laura..." A barely audible sound escaped Robert¡¯s lips as soon as he saw Laura. He was happy to see her but frightened at the same time. If Laura and her fiance knew what he did, they might kill him.


    Robert sighs silently while trying to endure all the pain that still lingers in his body. His condition now seemed awfully miserable.


    Laura didn¡¯t answer Robert immediately but looked at Marco¡¯s people, the long-haired man standing before them. She looked at the man, "You guys hit him?"


    The long-haired man shook his head, "No, ma¡¯am. We found him in this condition..."


    She didn¡¯t say anything else to the man with long hair but turned her gaze again to Robert. Her hand clenched into a tight fist as she asked, "Who did this to you?"


    Robert bitterly smiled, looking at the confusion and anger in Laura¡¯s eyes, enough to make him decide to be honest with her. He was too exhausted now. Either Laura and her fiance would let him live or kill him later; he didn¡¯t care anymore.


    "Laura, my suggestion to you..." Robert¡¯s eyes stare into her eyes. "You better run away. You are so daring to offend someone... you should not. If you didn¡¯t run, you would definitely end up just like me. They will capture you and perhaps throw you in jail..."


    Instantly, Laura felt her blood running cold, hearing Robert¡¯s warning. Her hands clenched even more tightly.


    "Offended who?" She snapped. "What are you trying to say?"


    "Tristan Sinclair!"


    Laura was utterly shocked to hear that name. Suddenly, countless questions now appeared in her mind: Why does Tristan torture her manager? What¡¯s his motive? Why is Robert saying Tristan will capture her, too? What is going on outside?


    She remembered giving up on Tristan Sinclair and made a promise to Tristan¡¯s mother that she would never appear before them again.


    "Are you kidding, right?" Laura asked, only to reconfirm if she heard it wrong. "Robert, you lie to me, right?"


    "No! I¡¯m telling the truth..." Robert weakly answers. "Laura, please help me... let me go now. I can¡¯t stay in this country, or Tristan Sinclair will come to collect my life." His voice trembles as he pleads to Laura.


    Not only was Laura shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s name. But Marco also felt the same way.


    Marco wasn¡¯t afraid of many people in this country, but there were a few names he would not cross paths with. He was fearful of their power and connection. One of them was the Sinclair family, especially Tristan Sinclair.


    "What the hell are you doing this time, Laura?" Marco¡¯s cold stare is enough to make Laura¡¯s face turn pale as she looks at him.


    "Explain why you are having a connection again with that man. You said you no longer have a connection with him and his family. Why did he suddenly capture your manager?"


    Marco started to doubt this woman¡¯s honesty.


    Laura opens her mouth a few times but fails to utter anything. She feels frightened hearing Tristan Sinclair¡¯s name after what happened the last time she met Jessica Sinclair; that woman tortured her. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Did Jessica Sinclair ask Tristan to arrest my manager?¡¯ Laura muttered angrily.


    ****


    The Next Morning.


    Stefan is expected to arrive in the city today. Still, Bella has decided not to pick him up from the airport because Tristan insists on following her to the airport.


    She is concerned that someone might take photos of them if she and Tristan are seen together at the public airport. She doesn¡¯t want to add a new problem; she already has many matters and responsibilities to bear.


    ...


    Bella sits alone on the garden bench behind her Grandpa¡¯s house, watching Dax doing his morning exercises near the lake with Geoffrey.


    "You didn¡¯t go to the office?"


    Suddenly, Isaac Donovan¡¯s voice came from behind.


    Bella spots her Grandpa walking towards her. She smiles at him when he sits on the bench beside her.


    "I will go after nine in the morning¡­ right after our breakfast, Grandpa."


    "I see. Okay, if you think you must. By the way, where is Tristan?" Isaac is curious because Tristan didn¡¯t show up at his house this morning when Bella and Dax joined him for breakfast.


    "Tristan is already leaving for the office; he has a meeting early this morning," Bella answered.


    She knew Tristan was speeding up his meeting because he wanted to accompany her to the airport.


    However, this morning, she decided to punish him. She didn¡¯t pick up Stefan, so Tristan was forced to go to the office early in the morning.


    Bella feels amused remembering how miserable Tristan was before he headed to his office.

 Chapter 249: Being Honest To Her Grandpa

    "Tristan is so hardworking..." Isaac chuckled and turned to see Bella. "You don¡¯t have to work so hard to build someone else¡¯s company, dear. Stay at home and play with Dax... Let Tristan work hard."


    Isaac is concerned to see her working hard. He thought his granddaughter was unaware that her life was no longer miserable, unlike when she was alone in a foreign land.


    Bella smiled, hearing her grandfather¡¯s words.


    "Grandpa, thank you for your concern. But I can¡¯t stop working because I can¡¯t abandon and ignore my responsibilities to my company. I have to work¡ª"


    "Do they pay you so well that you don¡¯t want to resign?" Isaac interrupted her before Bella could finish her words. "My dear granddaughter, I could infinitely send you money every month to replace the salary they pay you. Or are you worried about breaching the contract?" he asked, his tone showing a genuine concern.


    She took a deep sigh, thinking about whether to just tell him the truth or not.


    "I will send my lawyer to meet them," Isaac continues his sentence. He can¡¯t stand seeing his granddaughter suffer again while working for someone else.


    This was actually Isaac Donovan¡¯s concern when he learned of Bella¡¯s work in the company.


    When Isaac knew that Tristan was chasing Bella back after divorcing her five years ago, he specifically asked Tristan to ask Bella to stop working and become a stay-at-home wife and mother instead. But Tristan had reported to him that he also failed to ask her to resign from her company. Tristan said he was too afraid to force her, fearing she would be angry and refuse to return to him.


    Bella can¡¯t help but laugh when she hears her grandpa¡¯s words, which causes Isaac to raise his brow slightly, confused with her laugh.


    "Grandpa..." Bella said after her laugh subsided. "Well, I¡¯m not working for someone else. I actually work for my own company."


    Instantly, Isaac¡¯s expression turned shocked. He didn¡¯t expect Bella to own a company.


    "Y-You own a company?"


    "Yes, Grandpa." She smiles, looking at her grandpa¡¯s comically shocked expression. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, you work at Quantum Capital? The investment company, right?"


    Isaac knows from Nick the details about Bella¡¯s company; Quantum Capital is not a new company, but it was founded in the country several years ago. How could the company be hers?


    "Did Tristan set up a company for you when you married?" Isaac asked again. This is the only reason that could come to his mind now.


    She almost choked to hear that.


    "Of course not, Grandpa. I established a company with my college friend..."


    Bella explained to Isaac how she met rich kids like Jack Foster and Harper Reed while studying for her master¡¯s degree in the USA. Her intelligence impressed Jack and Harper, who invited her to join them in setting up a company.


    They recognized her contribution to the company¡¯s formation and granted her free shares. Although Bella is not a significant shareholder, her shares provide substantial dividends, allowing her to live comfortably. Her involvement in the company¡¯s management also helped to bring Stefan, their powerful hacker, on board.


    ...


    Isaac gaped at Bella¡¯s story. He knew that Bella was no ordinary woman. Her intelligence was high; she could be considered a genius. Therefore, she was one of the students selected for the acceleration program while studying in this country, and she received a full scholarship to continue her master¡¯s degree in America.


    However, it¡¯s hard for him to believe that going to the US would bring her into contact with rich young people. And now, she is one of the shareholders of Quantum Capital.


    "Bella, congratulations, my granddaughter... congratulations... Grandpa is very proud of you." Isaac was delighted to hear that. His granddaughter was not an ordinary woman but someone with great talent and a business owner.


    "Thanks, grandfather. But please don¡¯t tell anyone about this. So far... No one knows, only you."


    "Wait," Isaac raised his eyebrows again, surprised by her words. "Tristan doesn¡¯t know?"


    "Hmm, I haven¡¯t told him yet."


    "Hahaha..." Isaac suddenly burst out laughing. He was so happy he was the first to know about Bella¡¯s big secret.


    "Huh!? Why do you laugh, Grandpa?"


    "I¡¯m just happy. Good... Good... don¡¯t tell Tristan about it. Later, if he messes around again, just slap him because you¡¯re not an ordinary person, either. You own your company, too.


    Even though your company is much smaller than the Sinclair Group, he will definitely be shocked to know that..."


    Bella, "..."


    "Grandpa, it seems you didn¡¯t hear my explanation carefully." Bella smiled faintly.


    "Huh!? Am I wrong?"


    "Yes."


    "What?" Isaac was confused. "Which one? You said you own a company, right?"


    "I mean... My company is no smaller than the Sinclair Group."


    Isaac was speechless and unable to say anything. He could only clear his throat because he was shocked that Bella¡¯s company¡¯s growth was more significant than the Sinclair Group.


    After a moment, he said, "I thought Quantum Capital was a middle-level company...? No?"


    "Quantum Capital in this country is indeed small. However, our parent company is based in New York..." Bella explained. "Has grandfather ever heard about the RDF Group?"


    As the Donovan Group¡¯s founder, Isaac knows about several well-known investment companies abroad. RDF Group is one of the companies he often hears about, one of the top ten companies in the world¡¯s investment sector.


    "Your parent company, RDF Group?" Isaac couldn¡¯t believe his ears. If it were converted to Donovan Group, that company would be too big, like the Earth and Sky.


    "Yeah, that¡¯s the name of my parent company. It¡¯s one of the investment companies that plays a big role in today¡¯s world economy." A proud smile slowly appears on her lips.


    "And you are one of their founders and shareholders?"


    "Yes..." Bella laughed when she saw him seem to doubt her. "Grandpa, you seem not to believe me?" she narrowed her eyes at him.


    Isaac didn¡¯t answer immediately, but the look in his eyes clearly answered Bella¡¯s question.


    "Actually, the company uses the founder¡¯s last name."


    Instantly, Isaac¡¯s eyes widened before he could ask, "D, does that mean Donovan?"

 Chapter 250: Isaac Has a Heart Attack!

    "Actually, the company uses the founder¡¯s last name."


    Instantly, Isaac¡¯s eyes widened before he could ask, "D, does that mean Donovan?"


    Bella slightly nods before explaining, "The R is from Harper Reed¡¯s last name, the F is from Jack Foster¡¯s last name, and yes, that¡¯s right, Grandpa... the D is from my last name, Donovan."


    ¡¯Do-Donovan...¡¯ Isaac Donovan felt a massive wave of emotions rise within him, making his blood rush and his heart beat even faster. He was so shocked to know the top company, RDF Group, bears his name.


    Isaac narrowed his eyes, looking at Bella, while he raised his hand and made a sign gesture.


    Before long, Nick appeared at his side. "Master, do you need..." Nick paused when he saw Isaac¡¯s face turn pale. "Wh-What happens, sir? Why does your face look so¡ª"


    "Ni-Nick... Hurry... Hurry... take my heart medicine..." Isaac said while stroking his chest. "This little girl just gave me a heart attack..."


    Nick no longer said anything but marched toward the house.


    Bella panics when she sees her Grandpa seeming in pain. "Gr-Grandpa, are you alright?" she says while holding his hand. She is frightened, looking at how pale her Grandpa¡¯s face is now.


    "No... No... I¡¯m not alright. And you! You have to tell me everything later about your company..."


    Bella, "...."


    "Let¡¯s go to the hospital, Grandpa. Let me drive for you." Bella¡¯s voice trembled.


    "No need! I only need my med, and everything is fine." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, I overheard you ask Nick for your heart attack medication. This is serious, and we can¡¯t take any risks with your health," Bella said.


    When she saw him not saying anything but keeping his gaze fixed on her, Bella felt even more worried. She took her cell phone out of her pocket.


    "I will call the ambulance¡­"


    Before she could dial a number, Nick arrived with his two hands holding something¨Ca glass of water and med.


    "Master, this is your med¡­" Nick offers it with worry. However, Isaac didn¡¯t take it. His eyes also don¡¯t look at Nick; instead, he looks toward the lake.


    Bella was confused about why her Grandfather looked so relaxed; he ignored Nick, who brought him medicine. When she saw him smile, she became even more confused. Just before she wanted to speak, her Grandfather stood up from his seat.


    "My dearest boy! Are you done with exercising your martial arts?" Isaac¡¯s voice sounded cheerful while approaching Dax, who had just finished his exercise. He took Dax¡¯s hand and walked toward the house. "How about if we eat now? You must be starving, huh?"


    "Grandpa, I drenched in sweat. Would you mind if I shower first before breakfast?" Dax politely asked with a smile as he turned to his mother, who was still sitting on the bench. "Mom, are you okay? I can tell you looked¡­shocked," he asked, confused at her blank expression.


    Not only did Bella have that expression, but Nick did, too. He was rendered speechless, looking at his master, who looked healthy. Earlier, he panicked when he heard him asking for his heart medicine. But now? He looked terrific. Is he really that fine?


    Bella snapped out of hearing Dax¡¯s words. She smiled at him before responding calmly, "I¡¯m fine, Baby¡­" Still, inwardly, she was venting her frustration toward her Grandfather.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could Grandpa pretend to have a heart attack just like that? And make me frightened!?¡¯


    "Really, Mom? You look weird now."


    "Yeah, mommy is fine..."


    While Bella and Dax exchanged words, Nick couldn¡¯t hide his curiosity and worry. He asked, "Old Master, are you really fine? How about this med?"


    Isaac didn¡¯t rush to answer Nick¡¯s curiosity; instead, he turned his gaze toward Bella. With his unhurried tone, he said, "I¡¯m fine. I was just trying to scare that little girl¡­I mean Dax¡¯s Mother..."


    Dax, confused hearing his great-grandpa¡¯s words, looked up to see him in the eyes. "Mommy makes you angry, Grandpa?"


    "Yes, but only a little. Grandpa thinks your mommy is hiding something from Grandpa..." Isaac gently smiled at Dax. "Alright, let¡¯s go inside... You must be starving, right?"


    Dax answered him with a "Hmmm..." he was indeed starving now.


    After Isaac and Dax left, Bella and Nick still stood where they were while watching Isaac and Dax¡¯s backs disappear behind the door.


    No one spoke for a moment. They seemed lost in their thoughts.


    They both still feel dumbfounded to know Isaac was actually only pranking them.


    Geoffrey, who has finished teaching Dax, joins them.


    However, he was surprised when he saw Bella and Nick standing motionless in their place like cosplaying statues. He was confused when he saw Nick holding a glass of water and carrying medicine in his other hand. Who was sick?


    Curious to know, Geoffrey can¡¯t help but ask.


    "Young madam¡­ Nick¡­ what happened? Why do you both look like this!?"


    Nick and Bella jolted out of their own thoughts and looked at Geoffrey, surprised.


    Bella is the one who responds first. A half-smile slowly appears on her lips.


    "I...I¡¯m fine, Geoffrey. Thank you for your hard work." She awkwardly said, leaving without giving Geoffrey a chance to say anything.


    Geoffrey frowned slightly as he looked at Nick, "What just happened, Nick, my man? Who is sick? And why does the young madam look incredibly annoyed?"


    "Nothing... See you around, G!" Nick hurried to follow Bella inside the house. He was still curious why his master pranked them.


    Geoffrey, "...."


    "Why does everyone look so weird today?" he mumbled while returning to Tristan¡¯s house. He needed to prepare himself for another sudden task: driving the young madam to her office.


    ...


    The lively and eventful morning finally ended.


    Bella headed to her office with Geoffrey. No bodyguards rode in their car, only the two of them.


    However, Bella was immediately aware that their car was not alone. She could spot a few cars shadowing theirs from the rearview mirror, but she didn¡¯t ask Geoffrey anything. She already knew; those cars must be Tristan¡¯s people.

 Chapter 251: SHOCKING NEWS!

    Their car finally arrived at the Quantum Capital building. Bella thanked Geoffrey and asked him to return home as she didn¡¯t need him. She planned to stay at her office until Tristan arrived to pick her up later.


    After reaching the nineteenth floor, she went straight to her office and started working. She had enough time before Stefan¡¯s arrival.


    Bella immediately became immersed in the pile of files on the table. She needed to read several documents containing the business proposals of several companies they wanted to invest in.


    However, thirty minutes later, a text notification distracted her. She lazily glanced at her cell phone and read Leo¡¯s name.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is he texting!?¡¯


    Bella¡¯s mind was suddenly preoccupied with horrible scenarios. She imagined that something might have happened to Leo, who was supposed to have arrived at the airport to pick up Stefan.


    Without delay, she set aside the paper she had been reading and opened her text messages to check the text messages.


    [Leo] Check out this SHOCKING NEWS!


    [Leo] Link to article.


    [Leo] (Shocked Emoji)


    Bella turned on her laptop and opened the link that Leo sent her. Just reading the news title shocked her.


    [Laura Kiels¡¯s Manager Found Dead In A Car Accident!] S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Laura¡¯s manager? Robert..." Bella muttered and started to read the article.


    A few minutes later, her hands clenched into tight fists.


    "Why did he suddenly die!?"


    Countless questions now appeared in her mind upon reading about Robert¡¯s sudden death.


    "Why did this man meet his death when we needed him to expose Laura Kiels in court!?"


    Bella and her team already knew that Robert was only a messenger to pay for all the buzzers. Still, Laura Kiels must be the mastermind behind it.


    She heard the police were about to call Robert a few days ahead to be questioned as a witness.


    But now, he¡¯s dead. How can they catch and expose Laura Kiels as the mastermind behind Stellar Entertainment¡¯s smearing campaign?


    Instantly, Bella began to assume that Laura¡¯s manager¡¯s death was not just a simple accident. Someone must have caused his death, right!?


    "Damn it! Laura Kiels! How dare you erase our witness by killing him?" Bella was getting increasingly annoyed with this situation.


    This is why she needs Stefan in this city. She has many enemies for her to monitor.


    Just like this case, Bella believes this is not a simple death; this is not a mere car accident, but someone killed Robert.


    For several seconds, Bella sat in her place while reading another article.


    Later,


    Bella decided to call Sam.


    Not long after, Sam appeared. She asked him to sit for a moment before she joined him.


    Sitting opposite Sam, she asked, "What about the Sentinel Network progress?"


    Sam explained in detail their progress over the last few days.


    "Several members of the Sentinel Network who are not on special assignments have been directed to come to this country to help and teach new members; everything is under control..."


    Bella listened carefully without interrupting him.


    "We have about twenty-five senior members here and fifty new members. The senior members are paired with two new members and spread across the country to collect information about our company. But, as you requested, we placed more people in Nova City to investigate Celebes Energy. And also in this city..."


    Sam continued, "So, yeah, we are rapidly growing here. I believe we will operate like other branches, faster than I thought. Maybe around next month..."


    "You¡¯ve worked hard, Sam. I really appreciate it." Bella sincerely praised him. This fast progress was enough for their company, Quantum Capital, to grow faster.


    "Boss, don¡¯t say that. This is part of my job..." Sam chuckled, hearing her praise.


    Sam liked doing this kind of job because he could still use his abilities when he was active in the military and help his retired brother-in-arms from his special force division to work again.


    Bella smiled, hearing his humble words. She immediately asked him why he called her now.


    "Sam, did you read the news?"


    "Not yet. I¡¯ve been busy briefing with my team since this morning. Is there any news about Stellar Entertainment again?" Sam asked worriedly.


    The bad news about the company lately was definitely not in their favor, and he knew it was stressing out Bella.


    "No. But this is about Laura Kiels¡¯ manager, Robert. You know him, right?"


    "Yes, of course, I know him. You asked me to follow him. But Boss... I¡¯m really sorry. We tried to locate him in the last two days but failed to find him." Sam feels ashamed that he can¡¯t do his job properly.


    Bella took a deep breath before telling Sam that Robert was found dead in a car accident this morning. His car went into a ravine, and it was indicated he was driving drunk.


    "What?" Sam was shocked. "How come he died like that? Why do I feel strange to hear that!?" Sam didn¡¯t expect the person they were looking for now to be dead. "Robert¡¯s death seems suspicious..."


    Bella could only laugh bitterly when she heard Sam¡¯s words. They have similar thoughts. She also suspects Robert¡¯s death was not a mere car accident.


    "That¡¯s why I called you here, Sam. I want you to deploy your members to conduct investigations in the field, at his residence, or wherever he was last seen. Ask your people to look for anything suspicious at the place where he had the accident..." Bella ordered.


    Bella could ask Stefan to find CCTV footage, but she believes if someone killed Robert, they must have deleted all the CCTV footage, right?


    "I will immediately order our people to investigate now..." Sam is excited. This is the first significant case they have to handle since he formed a new team.


    "Good! But be careful not to attract anyone¡¯s attention. We are new to this country... I don¡¯t want certain people in this country to notice our Sentinel Network."


    "Sure, Boss." Sam smiles at Bella. He believes his people¡¯s talent makes tasks like this easy for them. "Anything else, boss?"

 Chapter 252: Call From Amanda Spencer

    "Sure, Boss. Consider it done." Sam smiles at Bella. He believes his people¡¯s talent makes tasks like this easy for them.


    "Anything else, boss?"


    "Did you send a few people to protect our new guy? I mean... Gael¡¯s arrival!? You know him, right?"


    Sam nods.


    "Yes, of course. Mr. Gael Foster is Mr. Jack¡¯s precious family. I can reassure you that I know how to take care of him, Boss..." Sam convinced Bella. He already knew Gael Foster was one of the precious people in the company they must protect.


    "Besides, Mr. Jack sent a few capable men flying with him...And some of them even in disguise¡­"


    Bella can¡¯t help but smile, knowing how protective Jack is toward Stefan. And Jack is the kind of man that will prepare for the worst.


    Sam didn¡¯t know Gael Foster¡¯s exact job at the company; he only heard rumors that Gael was a computer expert. However, Sam did know that Gael had as many security forces as those protecting Jack Foster and Harper Reed. He is an important figure in the company¡ªjust like their founder.


    That¡¯s why Sam is shocked when he discovers that Gael is flying to this country and will stay for several months.


    ¡¯How could someone as important as Gael Foster decide to come to this country?¡¯ This question has been bothering him lately.


    When Sam asked his contact at the head office, they also didn¡¯t know why Gael had suddenly relocated to Astington.


    "Oh, Jack did?" Bella didn¡¯t hear anything from Jack about it. She thought Stefan would travel in lowkey, using his other identity. She knows Stefan has several identities he usually uses.


    "Yes, I got word from the head of the Sentinel Network New York about this. And they asked me to take care of him during his lengthy stay in this city..." Sam explained.


    Bella laughed inwardly, thinking several bodyguards were following Stefan.


    She could imagine Stefan would become anxious with so many people around him and might be complaining; he had always hated being the center of attention, just like her.


    They talked about a few other things for a few minutes before Sam excused himself. He needs to do what Bella asked and investigate Laura Kiels¡¯ Manager.


    ...


    After Sam left the room, Bella didn¡¯t immediately get up from the sofa. Her mind was busy thinking about the death of Robert, Laura Kiels¡¯ manager.


    Countless questions emerge in her mind that need to be addressed. And all of this makes her head begin to hurt.


    "Gosh! Why does this bitch, Laura, always make me uneasy? Why does she always feel like a pain in the ass in my life?"


    Bella¡¯s memories reel back to the past and how things might have been different if she hadn¡¯t heard the gossip between Tristan and Laura that night at the hospital.


    If she hadn¡¯t heard the rumors¡ªTristan came with Laura Kiels to meet Obygym¡ªshe may not have faced the challenges of living in a foreign country and raising her son Dax alone. That night, she had considered giving Tristan a second chance. Still, the false rumors had ruined her mood about nearly everything.


    When she returned to this country and took an offer from Quantum Capital, who would have thought that this damn woman Laura Kiels was one of the talents in her company!?


    Gosh!


    What makes Bella hate Laura Kiels even more is that she joined hands with her mother-in-law, Jessica Sinclair, to trick Tristan into getting pregnant.


    Bella took a deep breath, feeling her head even more hurt, only thinking those things.


    She shook her head slightly, trying to put the source of her headache, Laura Kiels, out of her mind. She no longer wanted to have a connection with that bitch, hoping this matter would be solved faster.


    "Haaaah!" Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella took a deep breath as she stood and walked towards her desk. Just before she wanted to continue working, her cell phone rang.


    She was surprised to see Amanda Spencer¡¯s name written on her cell phone screen.


    "Amanda Spencer... How could I forget about her?"


    Instantly, Bella felt utterly sorry because she had promised to call her when she arrived in this city, but she had completely forgotten about it.


    After clearing her throat a few times to relax her voice, Bella immediately answered the phone.


    "Hi, Sis Amanda," Bella greeted her awkwardly. "I¡¯m really sorry I haven¡¯t called you yet... I¡¯m slightly busy handling a few things in the company," she said apologetically.


    Bella walked over to the glass wall behind her desk. She stood there, looking at the passing vehicles on the street below, trying to distract her nervousness.


    "Hi, Bella, you don¡¯t have to apologize," Amanda Spencer¡¯s gentle and relaxed tone rang from the other end. "Instead, I¡¯m the one who should apologize to you, dear. Because I¡¯m bothering you..."


    "Oh, no... no... sis. You are not bothering me. Even though I have been quite busy the past few days, I plan to call you in a few days ahead," Bella explained quickly, worried Amanda would misunderstand her.


    After returning from Nova City, she was distracted by the gangster who attacked her and Laura Kiels¡¯ matters, so she completely forgot about her promise to Amanda.


    On the other end, Amanda chuckled lightly before speaking.


    "Bella, I could understand that." Suddenly, Amanda¡¯s voice sounded worried. "I called you because I just wanted to ensure you were okay. Well, I read the news about your company, Stellar Entertainment, on the internet..."


    Since yesterday, Amanda has refrained from calling Bella because she worries it will bother her. But today, after she read the increasingly hot news about Laura Kiels¡¯ manager¡¯s death, Amanda could no longer resist the urge to call Bella. She really wanted to offer her help for Bella, as she also owned an entertainment company and had handled similar cases in the past.


    Bella was surprised to hear Amanda was concerned about her and her company¡¯s well-being. This woman had not met her in person but was already worried about her. She feels her heart slightly warm.

 Chapter 253: Finally, Meet Stefan

    Bella was surprised to hear Amanda was concerned about her and her company¡¯s well-being. This woman had not met her in person but was already worried about her. She feels her heart slightly warm.


    However, the warmth in Bella¡¯s heart instantly vanished when she remembered who Amanda was. Her heart tightened, and she felt even more pressure to meet with Amanda Spencer to explain her relationship with Sean.


    "Thank you, Sister Amanda, for your concern," Bella said, unsure of how much Sean had revealed to Amanda about their relationship. She was eager to meet with Amanda and hear her side of things before expressing her thoughts and feelings.


    There was silence for a few seconds before Amanda stated, "Bella, please tell me if you need my help."


    Once more, Amanda¡¯s sincere tone gave Bella a guilty feeling in her heart. She felt Amanda seemed to like her. What exactly did she think about her? Did Amanda know she was a mother?


    Another silent sigh escaped Bella¡¯s lips before responding to Amanda.


    "Thanks, sister, but my team could handle everything so far¡­" Bella immediately dismissed Amanda¡¯s offer. She needs to draw a line between them.


    She continued her words hastily to change the direction of the conversation. "Sis Amanda, about our meeting. I might be able to meet you tomorrow. Is that okay?"


    "Wow, really!?"


    "Yes, sis¡­" Bella slightly smiled when she heard Amanda¡¯s happy laugh on the other end.


    "Sounds great, Bella. I can¡¯t wait to meet you. Please let me know the place. You can choose any place you like. I will ensure to spare my time and come to our meeting¡­" Amanda couldn¡¯t conceal her happiness. Finally, Bella agreed to meet her.


    "Okay, sis. I¡¯ll contact you tomorrow¡­"


    "Sure, dear. I will look forward to your call¡­" Amanda Spencer answered enthusiastically.


    After politely chit-chatting about recently popular restaurants and whatnot, Bella finally ended the phone call.


    However, she didn¡¯t return to her desk right away; she stood there with her mind, thinking about Sean Spencer. Weeks passed, and Sean answered none of the short messages she sent, making her even more restless.


    "Where are you, Sean? I hope you are fine there and return to our country soon! We need to talk¡­" Bella whispered bitterly.


    After another few minutes¡­


    Bella took a deep breath before sinking back into the pile of documents she needed to read.


    She was so absorbed in her work that she didn¡¯t hear the knock on the door.


    Before long,


    A familiar voice rang in the room.


    "Sister Bella, after flying for dozens of hours to meet you, but... you completely ignored me!? You are so heartless, sis..."


    Bella suddenly looked up to see a young man standing before her. It was Stefan. His appearance hadn¡¯t changed much since she last saw him. His face was still pale, and his gaze was deep.


    He wore his usual attire: an oversized hoodie and jeans. Despite being in his late twenties, he looked very young. Large, rectangular, black-rimmed glasses perched on his sharp nose.


    Bella¡¯s smile grew wider as she stood up from her seat. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Finally, you have arrived, my little brother..." Bella welcomed Stefan with a warm hug. "Why are you taller than me now?" she said as she let go of her hug and looked at Stefan from head to toe.


    "Ooo, please, Sis... I was taller than you when we met before. Don¡¯t distort the facts," Stefan smiled at her. "Sis, I¡¯m starving now; the food on the plane was so bad, I couldn¡¯t eat it at all," he sighed deeply while rubbing his flat tummy.


    "Didn¡¯t you take a first-class flight?"


    "Yeah, I did..."


    "The food is usually delicious. You can even request the type of food you want, and the airliner usually has a chef on board..." Bella said, slightly raising her eyebrow. "Are you really flying first class or business class?"


    "I¡¯m not sure," Stefan laughs while scratching his head. "Bro Leo, did I..." He glances at Leo behind.


    "First class..." Leo answered him.


    "Hahaha... I forgot to ask them to change my meal. So, I just decided to sleep and play a game during the flight."


    "You!" Bella punches his shoulder lightly.


    Stefan didn¡¯t dodge Bella¡¯s gentle and tiny fist. Instead, he drew closer to her and whispered, "Sis, you know what? I asked your secretary to stop by to buy some food before coming to this place, but he didn¡¯t let me..." He said in his miserable tone, but Bella, who heard that, felt amused.


    ¡¯Jeez! This kid!! We have only met for a few minutes, but he¡¯s already complaining about the food. Since when did he become a foodie like me? Has Jack spoiled him that much in New York?¡¯ Bella chuckled inwardly.


    But she can¡¯t blame him, too; this is almost lunchtime.


    "Alright, let¡¯s eat. I already asked someone to prepare our lunch," Bella glanced at Leo, who was still leaning against the door frame. "Leo, is lunch ready upstairs?"


    But Leo seemed not to hear her. He was drawn into his thoughts, worried about staying in the same house with Stefan.


    This is the first time they have met in person; all this time, Leo has never crossed paths with Stefan when he was still working for Jack in New York. He did see Stefan, but at that time, he knew his name was Gael, Jack¡¯s family.


    Recently, Leo learned from Bella that Gael¡¯s real name was Stefan, and he was actually their hacker.


    After just a few minutes of talking with Stefan in the car, Leo¡¯s first impression was that this young man was too chatty and complained a lot. He didn¡¯t expect their top hacker to be a man who loved to chat and had a sharp tongue.


    And, just now, before his eyes...


    This young man also complained to Bella because he refused to stop by the convenience store. It wasn¡¯t because he didn¡¯t want to, but because the security team had warned them to head straight to Quantum Capital.


    Thinking they will share a house in the next few months, Leo feels an instant headache; he can picture his peaceful life starting to run away from him. He silently takes a deep sigh and puts aside his worries.


    "Leo? Did you hear me?"

 Chapter 254: Mother!?

    "Leo? Did you hear me?"


    "Huh!? Sorry?" Leo slightly raises his brow, confused.


    "How about lunch?"


    "Ah, Yes...yes... My secretary has prepared it. We can go straight upstairs!" Leo responds while smiling at her.


    "Alright, shall we go upstairs?"


    "Terrific! Let¡¯s go," Stefan said excitedly, but later, he yawned. "Ugh! I think I¡¯m still jet-lagged...I feel like I want to sleep..."


    "I¡¯m sorry, Stefan, but you can¡¯t sleep now! There are so many things we need to discuss. Besides, I still miss hearing about your life lately, my ¡¯lil bro," Bella said, pulling him to walk faster.


    ****


    Their lunch went by so fast.


    After lunch, Bella, Stefan, and Leo continued the discussion in the living room. They discussed the biggest priorities they would investigate.


    Their current focus was on resolving Stellar Entertainment¡¯s matter related to that damn woman, Laura Kiels.


    Apart from that, Bella also assigned Stefan to start her plan to destroy the Donovan Group. She would make factual but negative news about the company to lower its stock market price and force all shareholders to sell their shares to her anonymous company at a considerably lower price.


    This time, Bella would no longer see her uncles and father as part of her family but as enemies. She would not allow them to hurt her anymore.


    Even though she felt hurt for doing so, she had no choice. They had pressured her so much that she thought she was at a dead end where she could only fight to survive.


    ¡¯But how about Mother...!?¡¯


    The thought of her mother suddenly caused her heart to tremble, and a wave of emotions engulfed her. Unknowingly, her hands formed into tight fists as she attempted to suppress her anger.


    As a mother, Bella could empathize with the pain her own mother went through to become Lucas Donovan¡¯s wife. Her father was a narcissistic and manipulative man who never truly loved or cared about his wife. For her father, a wife was merely a woman who would bear a child, not a mutual partner.


    Bella knows precisely how miserable her mother¡¯s life is. Still, she also doesn¡¯t understand why her mother never fought back when her father abused her!? Bella believed her mother blindly devoted her life only to her father.


    ¡¯Should I call her?¡¯ This question consistently appears in Bella¡¯s mind, especially when her brother Henry tells her their mother misses her.


    However, Bella never dared to dial her mother¡¯s cell phone number.


    "Sister Bella, for Donovan Group, it is an easy task for me. I already collected many things about that company when you asked me to eye your scum brother, Henry..." Stefan casually said, but enough to make Bella pull out of her thoughts.


    She looks at him, smiles, and gives him a thumbs-up, praising him for his efficiency.


    "When do you want me to do this?" Stefan asked.


    "You can start when you are ready. The faster, the better. I must settle my family matters before I begin dealing with my husband¡¯s family." Bella said calmly but smiled faintly when she saw Stefan and Leo¡¯s faces turn stiff. "Why do you guys look scared?"


    "Damn, Bella! You still have not yet settled with Boss Tristan¡¯s parents?" Leo, who knows how bad Bella¡¯s relationship with her in-law is, starts worrying about her. He didn¡¯t want this girl to suffer again to enter the Sinclair family.


    "Wait... Wait..." Stefan chimed in. His brow wrinkled slightly as he looked at Bella. "I am genuinely curious about this and wanted to ask you since you seem to have confirmed that you have accepted your husband¡¯s wish to come back to you..."


    Bella maintains her calmness, even though she feels worried about Stefan¡¯s question. "Okay. I have considered you as family, as my little brother. So, I¡¯ll let you know. What do you want to know?" she asked.


    "Why did you let him return to you again, sis? Jack told me that your husband divorced you and that he didn¡¯t love you and was one hell of a womanizer!"


    Bella almost choked to hear his words.


    "Yes, that was what everyone knew about Tristan. But Tristan, my husband, is not like that at all. From the last few months of being close and speaking heart-to-heart with him, I know he loves me and has never been a womanizer. By the way, what exactly did Jack say to you?" She narrowed her eyes on Stefan.


    "Are you sure he loves you, sis?" Stefan ignored Bella¡¯s words and continued to doubt her. "Sis, Mr. Tristan Sinclair is incredibly handsome, even in the eyes of men! And he is also super rich! Don¡¯t you think you might be tempted by those traits and not by his actual feelings for you?"


    Bella, "..."


    Leo almost laughed hearing this na?ve and innocent Stefan¡¯s words.


    "Tsk! Stefan...why don¡¯t you stop being a wise-ass kid! Tristan Sinclair is madly in love with Boss Bella. I saw it with my eyes and heard it with my own ears," Leo responds to Stefan¡¯s silly question. He has already met Tristan a few times, and how Tristan looks and speaks at Bella clearly shows his profound love and admiration for her.


    "Oh, he better be! Because¡­if this time he tries to ruin my sister¡¯s life again, I vow I will whack Tristan Sinclair¡¯s head!"


    Leo, "..."


    "Are you sure you can beat Tristan Sinclair, kid? Have you seen him? He was so big and taller than you, kid... With only one flick from him, you already fly like a kite," Leo chuckled as he saw how pale and thin Stefan was.


    Stefan narrowed his eyes at Leo before his laugh echoed through the room.


    "HA HA HA...." Stefan laughed a loud pretend laugh while holding his stomach, hearing Leo¡¯s ridiculous words. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leo, "..."


    Bella also wore the same expression as Leo.


    They both have a similar question: Why does Stefan suddenly laugh? Did something possess him!?


    After his laugh subsided, Stefan¡¯s friendly gaze slowly turned cold, staring at Leo. But only for a second, as his cold gaze turned warm when he turned to look at Bella, "Sis, did bro Leo know my last name?" he asked gently.

 Chapter 255: Leo’s Nightmare

    "I guess, no! Why?"


    "How about you?"


    "Of course, I know... Petrovich, right?"


    "Mmm. You are right, sis." Stefan smiles. "Maybe you both didn¡¯t know, but I suggest you guys search who the Petrovich family is¡ªespecially you, bro Leo. Search that name now, and you will know whether I¡¯m a weak person or not."


    Leo, "..."


    He didn¡¯t want to waste his time entertaining Stefan and didn¡¯t care who the Petrovich family was. But looking at Stefan¡¯s proud and disdainful expression now, he had no choice but to take a look.


    "Don¡¯t tell your family is a military family or related to your president?" Leo casually said while typing the search engine on her cell phone. He can¡¯t come from a prestigious family, right?


    "Or, your family owns some kind of martial arts..." Leo¡¯s words faded suddenly when he read the article on his cell phone. A few moments later, he looked at Stefan in shock.


    "Fuck! Your family is¡ª"


    "Yeah! So now you know, right?" Stefan proudly said.


    ****


    After finishing their discussion, Bella finally bid goodbye. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She still needs to settle a few pending tasks before Tristan comes to pick her up.


    However, before Bella went downstairs to her office, she remembered Sam and the task she had assigned him. Her steps halted before she entered the elevator and turned to look at Stefan standing behind her.


    "Stefan, I forgot to ask you to investigate the death of Robert, Laura Kiels¡¯ manager."


    "Oh, that fat and unattractive man is finally dead!?" Stefan immediately corrected himself when he saw Bella¡¯s sharp gaze as if she were scolding him with her eyes. "Oops... I¡¯m sorry... I mean, why did he die?" he asked with a guilty smile.


    "It¡¯s a lengthy story. You can search online for details of his accident. But I want you to investigate his death more thoroughly, based not only on what¡¯s on the internet but also on police and morgue reports and based on the places he was days before and right upon his untimely death," she paused, glancing at Leo, who stood beside Stefan.


    Bella returned her gaze to Stefan again before continuing, "You see, Stefan, I believe his death was unnatural. I suspect someone murdered him."


    "What? Someone killed him?" Leo shouted, surprised by what he heard. He hadn¡¯t considered it; he had simply assumed Robert died due to negligence.


    "Yeah, I suspect his death isn¡¯t as simple as the news out there," Bella responds to Leo and turns to Stefan again. "Stefan, I have our people, Sam, from Sentinel Network to investigate the fields, but with your help, we might get faster information about the exact cause of Robert¡¯s death."


    "Okay, understood, sister. I¡¯ll gather all the related information that might help us to get a clearer picture of the case and report it to you later."


    Stefan started thinking the same as Bella because Robert was the key person they needed to testify in court. If he suddenly died, that meant someone wanted to bury him along with the evidence. And only one person came to his mind who was capable of doing so; it was Laura Kiels.


    "Thank you, little brother." Bella smiled as she continued walking towards the elevator, but her hand still held the door from closing. "And you need to rest first before working. We can talk about it again tomorrow..."


    "You know me so well, sis. I indeed need to lie on the large, soft bed..." He laughs.


    Stefan felt sleepy and tired now. He felt like his body was being torn apart. He really hated long-distance flights. This is why he only lived in NY in the past five years, never flew long hours, let alone intercontinental flights, and didn¡¯t even visit his family in Europe.


    "Good! Okay. Get your badly needed rest, and we¡¯ll talk again later. Bye..."


    "Wait... Wait... One more thing, sister," Stefan runs forward to stop the elevator door before closing. "There¡¯s something I forgot to ask... does Sam know about my real identity?"


    "I haven¡¯t told him your real ID. So, I guess not. Are you alright if I told him!?" Bella asked. "And I think it would be best if he knows. Because, it would be troublesome if Sam were unaware of you since Sam leads the Sentinel Network in this country. He will work intensely with you in the future.


    So, do you agree?"


    Stefan ran his finger through his hair before responding to her, "Sure, sure. It¡¯s fine. I know him from his confidential profile. He is indeed a trusted person... I can see why Jack put so much trust in him to protect you here."


    "Perfect! You know what, as an icebreaking between you and Sam, you can tell him about your real ID when you meet him later," Bella smiled at Stefan warmly even though her tone was assertive.


    Before the door closed, she turned her gaze to Leo and said, "Leo, would you mind taking care of my little brother Stefan here? And be less¡­you¡­on him, will you?"


    Leo rolls his eyes at her. He knows what Bella is referring to.


    Earlier, he complained to her about how Stefan would disturb his peaceful, solo life.


    However, of course, Bella only gave him a grin and wise words, "Hang in there, bro..."


    Sigh! How shameless she is!


    Leo silently sighed and turned to walk inside, but a hand landed on his shoulder before he could move. It completely shocked him¡ªhe hated someone touching him when he was least expecting, regardless of gender or age.


    He vented his sarcasm while turning to scold Stefan. But when he saw his expression, he could feel his blood shiver.


    ¡¯What the hell is this kiddo doing? Look at me like he saw me as a treasure!? And why is his smile different from before?¡¯


    Leo recalls how Stefan has tested his patience since meeting at the airport. However, now he seems completely different, overly clingy and needy, and he could see his eyes spark like gems.


    ¡¯Fuck! Is he¡ª¡¯


    Leo was too scared to continue his thoughts. He immediately shook his head to throw away the idea that this man was actually gay.

 Chapter 256: Spring Has Fully Arrived

    ¡¯Fuck! Is he¡ª¡¯ Leo was too scared to continue his thoughts. He immediately shook his head to throw away the idea that this man was actually gay.


    "Bro Leo, can you show me my room? I¡¯m freaking tired and need to sleep now..." Stefan yawned.


    Leo silently swallowed, turning to see Stefan¡¯s hand on his shoulder. This was the first time a man he had just met dared touch him.


    After adjusting his shocked expression, Leo answered him casually. "Sure, man..." He smiled awkwardly. His eyes fixed on Stefan¡¯s hand, squeezing his shoulder.


    Unable to hold back any longer, Leo turned to meet his eyes.


    "Okay. By the way, for your future reference, I don¡¯t like people touching me when I¡¯m not expecting a touch. You know¡­like when we¡¯re handshaking, that¡¯s fine. But other than that kind of situation, it¡¯s not fine. And it is regardless of gender or age. Got it, kid?!" His voice sounded casual, but his words and gaze made Stefan feel like Leo scolded him.


    "Oh, sure. Sure. Chill, brother..." Stefan awkwardly chuckled when he saw Leo¡¯s annoyed expression. He immediately pulled his hand away from Leo.


    Leo felt better after successfully drawing a line with Stefan without killing the kid. However, his sanity almost shattered when he heard Stefan¡¯s following words.


    "I¡¯m sorry if suddenly I have to hold on to you, brother Leo¡­ I can¡¯t help it. Besides, you look so damn cute when angry like now," Stefan said while running after him.


    He placed his hand again on Leo¡¯s shoulder, tightened his grip, and directed Leo¡¯s body to head inside.


    "Bro, sorry to hold you like this, but please hold me. My feet suddenly feel like jelly. It must be because of the long flight hours. I can¡¯t walk properly now¡­" he said in his miserable tone. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leo almost choked when he heard his silly reason. He had no choice but to let Stefan hold onto his broad shoulder and walk beside him while trying to appear as calm as possible.


    "Bro Leo, why do you look nervous? You didn¡¯t want me to stay here? Do you want me to ask sis¡ª"


    "Stop talking and walk!" Leo snapped while increasing his steps. He just wants this weird man to sleep and leave him alone.


    ¡¯Fuck! Is Stefan really a gay? Oh, Damn¡­I hope I don¡¯t act like a homophobic¡­but¡­Damn it!¡¯ He cursed himself inwardly, venting his annoyance.


    Leo knows how exactly a real man behaves, even a young man or teenage boy. And it is different from this man who still clings tightly on his shoulder.


    ¡¯Bella, you wait for my scolding! How could you throw this funny bloke at me?¡¯


    "Okay, Stefan. Here we are. This is your room..." Leo said.


    He stops and moves a few steps away from Stefan.


    "The room next door is your computer room. As Bella said earlier, you can start looking for computers tomorrow. We will accompany you looking for any type of computer you want, spare no expense. Boss Bella will cover all of it," he explained quickly.


    Leo tried to only make a flashing gaze at Stefan and not dare to look too long at the strange look in Stefan¡¯s eyes.


    "Okay, if you need anything, you can knock on my door¡ªthat door at the end of this room..." Leo points to the door in the corner. "And the other room, beside my room, is Sam¡¯s. You already heard about him earlier from Bella, right? Sam is the Sentinel Network leader and the guy you will work with."


    "Ah, so there are three of us living here on this floor?" Stefan nods while looking at Leo and Sam¡¯s bedroom.


    "Yeah. Yeah, three of us. Okay, you may rest now. I still have a lot of work to do and must finish it now. BYE!"


    Leo walked quickly towards the elevator without giving Stefan time to stop him. He needed to confirm his suspicions with Bella. Is it true that Stefan is gay, or is he just too sensitive to Stefan¡¯s closeness?


    ...


    Stefan stifled a laugh when he saw Leo running like he had his tail between his legs.


    Looking at his expression earlier, he feels excited to have a fun roommate like Leo in this new place.


    "Damn! It was fun to tease him..."


    When Stefan no longer sees Leo, his smile fades as he enters his room. He needs to take a nice bath before sleep to get rid of all the anxiety he had during the flight.


    During the flight to this country, he couldn¡¯t sleep at all, and he didn¡¯t dare to take any food or drink on the plane, afraid someone would try to kill him.


    "What a pathetic life you have, man!" He mumbles and starts to undress...


    ****


    Meanwhile, in the Quantum Capital CEO¡¯s room,


    Bella was engrossed in reading several cooperation proposal documents that she had left unfinished. However, after reading a few documents, she began to feel tension in her shoulders.


    Standing up from the chair, she raised both hands and stretched while looking at the sky outside.


    A sense of calm washed over her as she gazed at the clear blue sky. It was almost five in the afternoon, yet the sky was still bright and pretty.


    The sight of people walking below, no longer clad in their winter clothes, clearly indicates that spring has fully arrived in the city. The air is no longer as chilly as it was when she first arrived in the country three months ago.


    "Wow! Time flies so fast..." Bella muttered softly with a small smile, imagining that her sudden change of plan to return to this country started because her grandfather tricked her with the illness he was suffering from.


    Although Bella was a bit annoyed that her Grandpa tricked her, she was also grateful for it.


    She returned to this country to pursue her dream of becoming a successful businesswoman.


    And,


    God also gave her a gift to reunite her with her husband, Tristan, after they clarified the misunderstanding that caused their separation.

 Chapter 257: Choose

    Many things had happened in the last few months of her life. Bella was genuinely happy to be back and moving forward with her goals.


    However, despite all the happiness she had achieved, many things remained stuck in her heart, tormenting her mind and soul, and needed to be cleared up: her own family, Tristan¡¯s Family, and Sean¡¯s.


    Sigh!


    At a glance, Bella could see a faint smile appearing on her rosy lips through the reflection of the glass wall before her.


    Patting her chest gently, Bella muttered to herself.


    "Cheer up, Bella. All of this will soon pass. Be strong! Everything will be fine..."


    Slowly, she felt better after talking to herself; however, her mother¡¯s image started to fill her mind again.


    Exhaling deeply filled her heart with fresh air several times before Bella sat back in the chair.


    Her eyes stared at the cell phone on the table while considering whether to call her mother.


    Once more, this question popped into her mind, bothering her, "Should I call my mother...!?"


    After a few more seconds, Bella grabbed her cell phone. However, a short message appeared before she opened the phone book to look for her mother¡¯s cell phone number.


    "Tristan...?" Bella frowned, looking at a text from Tristan.


    It was rare for Tristan to send her a short message. He usually prefers to make phone or video calls unless he is in a situation where this is impossible, for example, during an important meeting.


    Bella immediately opened Tristan¡¯s short message.


    However, reading Tristan¡¯s ambiguous short text message caused her to raise her eyebrows. She was confused.


    [Tristan] Darling, please choose Mountain or Sea.


    Stunned momentarily, she read Tristan¡¯s short message a few times.


    Why did he suddenly ask her to choose?


    "Oh! Gosh, Tristan..."


    Bella¡¯s smile widened when she realized something. Tristan wants to buy her something related to Mountains and Seas, right? That¡¯s why he asked her to choose.


    "A house?" She shook her head, trying to throw away her imagination while swiftly typing her reply.


    [Bella] Hubby, whatever it is, I¡¯ll like it. You decide!


    [Bella] (Shy emoji) (Love Emoji)


    Not long after, a reply from Tristan appeared again.


    "Huh!? Hot or Cold?"


    Bella found it amusing that Tristan asked her to choose between the two.


    "Now what!? This has to be about food, right?" She asked herself again with a smile, guessing what Tristan was planning.


    She leaned back in her chair, looking at the white ceiling above, and trying to think about what food she wanted to eat.


    After a few moments, she finally decided. She needs to eat something cold now because the temperature has recently started to get hot.


    [Bella] Cold!


    [Bella] Hubby, Seriously, why are you asking? (confused emoji)


    She put her cell phone back on the table and continued to finish her work.


    ****


    Meanwhile, at the Sinclair Building.


    Leading a meeting with a few Directors, Tristan smiled when he read Bella¡¯s answer.


    ¡¯So, she prefers mountains and a cold country? Alright, dear, I found a good place for our honeymoon...¡¯


    His heart grew happier when he imagined them cuddling in bed all day and night in a cold place. He had thought about the country where they would spend their honeymoon. What he needed now was to call his people to prepare everything and end this damn meeting!


    "This is all my presentation, Mr. Sinclair..." The voice of someone calling his name made Tristan focus back on his meeting. "Are there any other questions, sir?" The man felt nervous as he looked at Tristan, who sat at the end of the table.


    Tristan¡¯s happy smile slowly faded as he put his cell phone in his pocket and looked at one of the directors who had just finished his presentation.


    "No. Thank you for your report," Tristan stood up from his chair and left the room. "The meeting is over..." He said and left.


    However, someone stopped him only a few steps after leaving the meeting room.


    "I need to talk to you, Tristan..."


    Tristan¡¯s footsteps stopped, then turned to look at his father, William Sinclair, who was also attending the meeting. He didn¡¯t say anything, only nodded, then continued his steps toward his office.


    "Please sit down..." said Tristan as he continued walking towards his office table to put down the documents before joining his father in the seating area. He sat opposite his father. "What do you want to say?"


    William Sinclair took a deep breath before finally telling Tristan that his mother wanted him to come home to have lunch together tomorrow. They hoped Tristan wouldn¡¯t refuse because his mother had something important to discuss.


    Tristan stroked his forehead lightly, hearing his father¡¯s words. He could guess what exactly his mother wanted to say. Whenever his father begged him to return home, his mother had a grand plan for him again: to introduce him to another woman to choose as a wife candidate.


    Tristan always rejected it immediately in the past, but he will not avoid it this time. He needed to speak to them about Bella and their son. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Okay!" Tristan firmly said, looking his father straight in the eyes.


    "O-okay?" William Sinclair repeated. He was too shocked to hear his son agree right away. Usually, his stubborn son would refuse and argue, but now he answered fast and firmly. It felt unreal to listen to that.


    "Yes," Tristan says, amused by his father¡¯s shocking expression. He tries to maintain his deadpan expression while he continues, "Please tell Mother I will come tomorrow. Is there anything else you want to say, Father?"


    William Sinclair was lost in his thoughts, unable to say anything. He looked at Tristan and felt the odds.


    "I need to finish my work before going to my other meeting. Father, I will not send you out..."


    Tristan stood from his seat and didn¡¯t wait for his father to say anything; he headed to his table and immersed himself in the document he needed to sign before he picked up his wife.


    While Tristan was immersed in his work, William was still sitting in his seat, his gaze fixed on his only son while lost in thought.


    William Sinclair struggles with his relationship with Tristan. Despite his attempts to reconnect with Tristan, he has been unsuccessful, and their relationship has become cold and distant. Since Tristan divorced Bella a few years ago, he no longer sees him as his father, and William feels he has lost his son.


    ¡¯I¡¯m sorry, son...¡¯ William stood from his seat and left.

 Chapter 258: Heartless Friend

    Quantum Capital Building.


    When Leo arrived at Bella¡¯s office, he saw her still busy writing. As usual, she was unaware of his presence. Even after he knocked on the door, she was still immersed in the paper she was reading.


    Leo waited a moment, leaning against the door frame, waiting for Bella to notice him. But after a few seconds, she still didn¡¯t lift her head. He shook his head as he entered the room, approaching her desk.


    "Boss, you are a hardworking big boss. No wonder Jack likes you..." Leo said as he stopped a few steps from her desk. A faint smile graced his lips when he saw her finally lift her head and look at him.


    "Why are you still here? Hasn¡¯t your husband picked you up yet?" Leo asked while quickly glancing at his watch. "Oh, it¡¯s almost five, boss¡­"


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer Leo. She continued to sign several documents before tidying them up and putting them in a document box in the corner so that some secretaries could retrieve the documents later when she left.


    "My husband is still in a meeting," Bella finally responded to Leo as she looked at him.


    She stood up and walked towards the sofa, inviting him to join her. Once Leo sat across from her, she asked, "Why are you here? You should be giving a room tour for Stefan upstairs, right!?"


    Leo¡¯s expression turned grave as soon as he heard the name ¡¯Stefan.¡¯


    Instantly, memories of what happened upstairs flooded his mind. How Stefan openly seduced him, enough to make his stomach feel uneasy.


    He sighed heavily before venting his anger, "Boss, you have to compensate me¡­ for my emotional damage!"


    Bella slightly frowned upon hearing his words. Confused, she asked, "What do you mean? Why should I compensate you?"


    Leo¡¯s shoulders slumped, shaking his head slowly. "Because you threw a shameless gay in my place."


    Looking at Leo¡¯s terrible expression now, as if someone had just spat in his face, she couldn¡¯t help but feel worried about him.


    "Leo! Can you please use simple, normal language? I can¡¯t understand you now..." Bella said before taking her water bottle off the table and taking a sip; she suddenly felt her throat dry, looking at his annoyance.


    "Boss, I¡¯m sorry to say this, but I think your little brother is gay! Not that there¡¯s anything wrong with it¡­. It just caught me by surprise! You should have warned me in advance, boss¡­"


    "COUGH! COUGH!" Instantly, Bella¡¯s face turned red, and the water she had just drunk gushed out. She was shocked to hear Leo¡¯s words.


    Leo chuckled. He stood up, grabbed the tissue box on the small table in the corner, and handed it to her, "Wow! Why are you shocked? I¡¯m sure you are already well aware of it, right?"


    Bella accepts the tissue box. She immediately cleans her mouth and wipes the water spilled on her trousers. After her cough subsided and she felt better, she looked at Leo again. Her looks evidently show how perplexed she is.


    "What the hell are you talking about? Since when did Stefan become gay? He is a straight guy, alright! Not that there¡¯s anything wrong with being gay¡­" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had never heard Stefan tell her about his sexual orientation, but knowing him since he was in his teens, she could tell that he liked women. A few times, she saw him flirting with a girl.


    "Tsk¡­ Tsk¡­ boss, the man upstairs openly seduced me. Damn!! Thinking about what happened earlier, I feel like... Ugh..." He rubs his arms, feeling goosebumps.


    Bella, "..."


    Now, she feels confused after seeing how serious Leo is.


    "Is he!?" she asked in her confused tone but later corrected herself again. "No... No... Impossible!"


    "Damn! You are so clueless, boss. That¡¯s why you didn¡¯t know," Leo was amused when he saw her eyes widen. "Anyway, you should tell him. Don¡¯t try to seduce me, or I will kick him out!"


    Bella, "¡­"


    She still doubts it.


    It¡¯s hard for her to believe Stefan is gay.


    "He is not. You¡¯re just delusional, Leo. Or¡­ did you now turn into¡ª"


    "What the fuck are you trying to say, Arabella Donovan!?" Leo¡¯s face blooms with redness while holding his anger. "How could you assume that?"


    Bella grinned, ignoring his annoyance.


    "Seriously, you didn¡¯t...?" When she saw his eyes narrowed at her, Bella continued. "But why did you reject me even though I openly told you I liked you..." She playfully asked, remembering her stupid self in the past.


    Leo¡¯s mouth twitched.


    "Heaven! Bella, I know you like me because I¡¯m smarter than you, not because you love me! And please, could you please stop trying to create nasty gossip about my sexual orientation? If Jack or Harper hear, they will roast me alive. I like women! And I have a woman I like now..."


    Bella could only laugh upon hearing his words. She glanced at her watch and stood up.


    "Alright, understood. I should prepare now... My hubby will arrive soon¡­"


    Leo took a deep sigh.


    "Please remember to tell your little brother to stay away from me!" he said, begging.


    Bella shook her head while tidying up her desk. She would not say anything to Stefan. It would be embarrassing if she told him about that, right?


    "Bella?"


    When Bella heard Leo calling her name, she lifted her head and saw Leo still standing near the door. She paused to put her things in her bag.


    "Leo, I won¡¯t! He¡¯s not gay, so you should have nothing to worry about. If you feel uncomfortable around Stefan, that¡¯s on you. Stefan is a good kid, and I¡¯m sure you will find him a great guy to hang around with once you know him well."


    "Oh, geez¡­what a heartless friend..." He faintly said, but Bella could hear his words.


    "Oh, come on, Leo. You have to believe in yourself. Even if I turned out to be wrong and Stefan was gay, you wouldn¡¯t be easily tempted by him even if he openly seduces you, right? Or¡ª"


    "Alright, alright¡­I get your point! I have something urgent to do now. See you, boss!" Leo walked quickly, leaving Bella¡¯s room. He must call his lovely secretary Dana and ask her to return immediately. He now worries about himself, too, falling into Stefan¡¯s trap because he must admit that Stefan is a good-looking guy, even for a straight man like him.


    ...


    Bella can¡¯t help but laugh, looking at Leo running out of her office.


    She continues to prepare to go home. Just as she was about to call Tristan, her cell phone rang.


    "Did you arrive?" Bella asked while grabbing her bag and walking out of her office.


    "Hmm. I parked in the basement."


    "Oh, you drove yourself?" Bella asked, smiling. It had been a long time since Tristan drove for her.


    "Yes. I want to drive with my wife..."


    When Bella arrived at the basement lobby, she saw Tristan¡¯s usual car parked near the entrance.


    Bella quickly approached the car, but her cell phone rang a few meters before she arrived. She stopped to check the text message.


    "Se-Sean..." She whispered in a trembling voice. After three months, this was the first time he had texted her using his cell phone number.

 Chapter 259: Sean Is Back!

    "Se-Sean..."


    Bella whispered in a trembling voice. After three months, this was the first time he had texted her using his cell phone number.


    Her hand slowly became cold and shaky as she tried to open the text message.


    [Sean] Hi Bells, I¡¯ve just landed in Astington! (Smile emoji)


    [Sean] But, I can¡¯t meet you right away. I have to stay on base for a couple more days for an internal report.


    [Sean] I will call and visit you pretty soon. I miss you and Dax!


    [Sean] (Love Emoji)


    A faint smile appeared at the corner of Bella¡¯s lips as she looked at her cell phone screen.


    ¡¯He... finally came back. Sean finally came back¡­¡¯ Bella muttered under her breath.


    She couldn¡¯t describe her feelings now; tears of joy, worry, sadness, and guilt mixed.


    However, when a faint whisper escaped her lips, "I¡¯m sorry, Sean..." Her hand holding the cell phone tightened as guilt enveloped her.


    ...


    Tristan became worried when he saw his wife standing frozen, looking at her cell phone. He immediately exited the car and approached her, not caring if someone saw him.


    He reached her with his long legs and strides, "You okay, darling?"


    Bella flinched when she heard Tristan¡¯s voice near her ear. She put her cell phone in her bag and looked at Tristan¡¯s hands, now touching her arms.


    Slowly, she looked up to meet his gaze but was unable to answer his question.


    "What¡¯s wrong? Why do you look so shocked?" Tristan asked, his concern growing as he noticed her ghostly expression.


    She blinked a few times before she managed to speak, "Shock? What do you mean? No. I didn¡¯t look shocked. In fact, I looked totally fine¡­"


    "Are you sure?" Tristan cupped her cheeks with both hands, looking into her confused gray eyes. From her gaze, he could tell that something was bothering her. He could also see that her smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes.


    "Hmm. I¡¯m fine," said Bella while glancing around. She saw a few people coming out of the elevator and several cars parked nearby.


    Worried that someone might recognize Tristan, Bella grabbed his hand and pulled him toward the car.


    "Let¡¯s go... Someone might recognize you," Bella said, walking quickly.


    Tristan smiled as he quickened his pace to match hers. After ensuring she was properly seated in the passenger seat and helping her buckle up her seatbelt, he rushed to his side, behind the wheel.


    He said nothing but drove the car out of the basement.


    While driving, Tristan occasionally glanced at Bella. He saw she was immersed in her cell phone, texting someone.


    A few more minutes passed, and she was still busy texting. Tristan couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Who are you texting now?"


    He asked casually, but Bella could feel the tension in his tone. She immediately turned to look at him. She saw him still focused on the street ahead, and she could see him looking calm from his side profile.


    "I texted Sam. I asked him to check the CCTV footage and erase your face if it was clearly seen. I also asked him to ensure no one was taking our picture. My security team often finds paparazzi posing as guests in the parking lot. They are waiting for artists from my agency."


    A soft chuckle escaped Tristan¡¯s lips before he asked, "Are you that worried about someone seeing us together?"


    Bella was stunned to hear his words, which clearly expressed his disappointment.


    No words left her lips because what he said was true. She wasn¡¯t ready for their relationship to be revealed, especially when all her problems had not been resolved.


    Her hand clenched tightly. She didn¡¯t know how to answer him. She worried that her answer would make him sad because she knew Tristan wanted to tell people they were a couple, while she was the opposite. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella saw Tristan turn his head to her. His gloomy gaze gave her the courage to express her thoughts.


    "Hubby, I know you understand why we can¡¯t be seen together, right?" When she saw him nod and focus on the street again, she looked ahead before continuing her words. "Please give me more time to solve everything..."


    Nobody spoke again after that. A few minutes later, the car stopped at a red light. Tristan turned to Bella; seeing her staring pensively at the road ahead, he asked, "Earlier in the basement, who texted you to make you freeze like that?"


    Bella suddenly felt her heart sink when she heard his question. She hadn¡¯t planned on keeping Sean¡¯s return from him, but she was afraid to tell him now, especially since he was driving. She feared he would be disturbed by the news of Sean¡¯s return.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, Bella decided to talk to him about it because if they got home, she wouldn¡¯t have the chance, as Dax would distract her.


    She looked at him, "Hubby, can you please find a place to park the car? I have something I need to tell you¡­"


    Tristan could see the tension in her gaze. He didn¡¯t ask anything else but made a turn, heading to a park near the river, not far from their position.


    Soon, the black SUV stopped at the car park facing the beautiful river in front of them. In the distance, they could see the lights from the skyscrapers in the business district where their office was located.


    There was a brightly illuminated path by the river where people could jog or bike. But that late afternoon, no one was walking there, and only a few cars were parked in the vast parking lot near their vehicle.


    Tristan unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to see her. When he saw the tension in her eyes, he could guess something was bothering her. Not only did Bella have worries on her mind, but he also had thoughts weighing on him, like his plan to meet his parents tomorrow.


    He smiled gently at her while playing with her dark, soft hair, "What do you want to talk about?"


    Bella looked at her hands, entangled on her lap, before slowly raising her head to look at him.


    "It¡¯s about Sean. He is back¡ª"

 Chapter 260: Don’t Blame Him

    "It¡¯s about Sean. He is back¡ª"


    Instantly, silence hung in the air. Neither of them said anything.


    Bella saw his hand hanging in the air before touching her hair. His expression slowly darkened, but it was only for a moment, a faint smile reappeared on his lips, and his frozen hand moved to land on her head, stroking her hair gently.


    She took a deep sigh, relieved that Tristan didn¡¯t overreact to the news of Sean¡¯s return.


    However, just as Bella was about to continue speaking, Tristan spoke, "I will talk to Sean about us. You don¡¯t need to meet him to explain anything..."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She immediately shook her head and refused his idea. "No, hubby. Let me meet him first."


    Tristan frowned. "Why do you insist on meeting him?"


    "I told you before I made a promise to him..." Bella explained her promise to Sean that she would give him a chance and wait for him. "I have to meet him myself to apologize to him."


    Bella knew she had broken her promise to Sean and understood her actions would hurt him. Therefore, she didn¡¯t want to let him learn about her situation with Tristan from someone else, as she didn¡¯t want to disappoint Sean further.


    Bella respected Sean deeply because he had brought another color to her life over the last five years. Although their relationship had only been limited to close friends, Sean was the only man who openly and sincerely approached her at the time.


    Tristan frowned, "My dear, but¡ª"


    Bella¡¯s index finger landed on Tristan¡¯s lips, signaling him to stop speaking. "Tristan... Husband, please, you must allow me to do what I ask this time."


    Even though Tristan was reluctant to let his wife meet Sean Spencer, seeing the sincerity in her eyes, he didn¡¯t have the heart to refuse. He had no choice but to nod, agreeing to her request.


    "Thank you, Hubby¡ª" Her voice suddenly vanished as soon as Tristan¡¯s lips touched hers.


    The sudden kiss surprised Bella, but she didn¡¯t resist his deep and sweet kiss. Instead, her hands rose and wrapped around his neck. His dominant lips enveloped hers, coaxing her stiff tongue to intertwine with his in a seductive manner.


    Her heart beat faster, and every nerve in her body tensed as he slid his hands up to her neck and kissed her deeper. A series of moans were heard every time he sucked on her tongue. However, as she attempted to delve deeper into his mouth, she felt his passionate kiss slowly stop, and his lips moved away from hers.


    ¡¯Damn! Why did he stop?¡¯ She vented her frustration inwardly while lowering her face, looking at his chest, trying to control her shallow breath.


    The car¡¯s atmosphere felt increasingly hot and quiet. Without either of them speaking, only breathing could be heard.


    After a few moments, Bella finally broke the silence. "W-Why did you stop kissing me?"


    She felt annoyed because Tristan had been doing this a lot lately, arousing her lust but stopping as soon as she wanted more. Gosh! How annoying.


    "My pretty wife, did you forget we¡¯re in the car park?" He casually said while touching her chin and making her look him in the eyes. "We will be in trouble if the Car Parks¡¯s security caught us making out here..."


    Bella pouted.


    She sat back in her seat while smoothing her hair, trying to hide her red cheeks.


    When Bella thought they would not discuss anything again other than going home, Tristan¡¯s voice broke the silence.


    "My darling wife, I allow you to meet Sean. But I will drive you to the place where you meet him." Tristan said it casually, but when Bella saw the look in his eyes, she could see that this was not a request but a condition she couldn¡¯t refuse.


    "Ok, no problem..." she said, smiling at him. For her, the most important thing was that she met Sean first and talked to clarify everything. If Tristan was going to meet Sean after that, that was his business.


    "Thank you, my darling wife..."


    ...


    "Oh, right, hubby... I forgot to tell you. Tomorrow, I will meet someone..."


    Bella suddenly remembered her lunch meeting with Amanda Spencer. Even though Sean had returned to the country, she couldn¡¯t cancel it¡ªshe had already made a promise to Amanda.


    "You mean you will meet Sean tomorrow?" Tristan was worried about failing to accompany her because he had already promised his father he would return to their house for lunch.


    "Not him. Sean will not have time to meet me for a few days. But tomorrow, I will meet his aunt, Miss Amanda Spencer. You know her, right?"


    Tristan was taken aback. He didn¡¯t expect Bella to have such a connection with Amanda Spencer. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, I know her. A few times, we¡¯ve met at his brother¡¯s parties and house."


    Bella silently gulped, hearing that Tristan always visited Sean¡¯s house and met his parents.


    Gosh! It would be humiliating if she dared to enter Spencer¡¯s household.


    "Why do you want to meet her? Is it about work?" Tristan asked.


    She didn¡¯t know how to start telling him about Sean, who sent her an exclusive black card through Amanda Spencer. Since then, Amanda has become curious about her.


    ¡¯Should I tell him?¡¯ she thought while checking his mood.


    "Is there something you can¡¯t tell me?" Tristan asked, smiling, but Bella could see that his smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes.


    Bella didn¡¯t want any misunderstanding between them, so she immediately explained that Sean had sent her a black card to use.


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s calm face turned dark. "What? Sean is so daring to give my wife his exclusive family credit card!? What the hell is he thinking?"


    "Hubby," Bella chuckled when she saw him angry. When Tristan looked at her, she continued, "Don¡¯t blame Sean because he thinks you already divorced me."


    Tristan¡¯s shoulders slumped. He said nothing but leaned against his seat, closing his eyes.


    He couldn¡¯t speak whenever he remembered that painful moment when he had ignorantly let her go five years ago.

 Chapter 261: His Plan

    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She let Tristan calm his mind and heart, knowing he still blamed himself every time they talked about their past separation.


    The funny thing is, every time she asked him to forget, Tristan would say, "It¡¯s okay, darling. I deserve this torture."


    She couldn¡¯t refute him and let him punish himself.


    ...


    While waiting for Tristan to calm down, Bella leaned back in her seat, trying to enjoy the distant scenery. However, it wasn¡¯t long before she heard Tristan move and speak to her.


    "Wife, tomorrow I have plans to have lunch with my parents¡­"


    Bella¡¯s heartbeat quickened when she heard that. She tried to appear calm as she turned to look at him.


    "Oh, really? That sounds good..." Bella smiled at him, even though she felt confused and awkward inside, unsure how to react.


    This was the first time Bella had heard Tristan mention his parents in their conversations. He usually avoided talking about them, knowing it would hurt her feelings.


    Still clear in Bella¡¯s mind, when they met again a few months ago, she felt hurt and awkward whenever his family was mentioned. But recently, she was no longer so affected after hearing from Geoffrey that Tristan¡¯s relationship with his parents was worsening.


    He rarely returned to his parents¡¯ home, and their relationship got worse every year because his parents forced him to marry the woman they chose.


    Seeing no expression on Tristan¡¯s face, Bella continued, "Hubby, I hope you can enjoy your lunch with them..."


    Tristan¡¯s deadpan expression slowly turned warm, and a faint smile appeared on his lips as he said, "Thanks, darling¡­" He then turned to see the city lights in the distance, following Bella¡¯s line of sight.


    Later,


    The atmosphere in the car slowly turns awkward. No one speaks. They are both lost in their own thoughts.


    After several seconds of silence, Tristan finally says what¡¯s on his mind.


    "My darling wife, I plan to tell my parents about Dax and us tomorrow. I hope you don¡¯t oppose it..."


    Instantly, Bella is caught off guard by his words.


    "Cough! Cough!"


    Tristan turns to her, worried, looking at how red her face is now.


    "Are you alright?"


    Bella can¡¯t answer him; instead, she coughs even more. She can only make an OK sign with her hand to stop him from panicking. She was too surprised to hear that Tristan would tell his parents about them this soon.


    "Drink this¡­ to ease your throat." Tristan offers Bella a water bottle to clear her throat. She doesn¡¯t refuse it; she immediately drinks the water.


    After Bella feels better, she says, "T-Thank you. I¡¯m fine."


    Tristan doubts Bella¡¯s words because he can still see the worry lingering in her eyes. He slowly raises his hand, places it on her face, and rubs it gently.


    "Bella, my wife, are you really okay? Why do you look like you disagree if I meet them? Dear, if you stop me, I will cancel my lunch plan tomorrow with them¡ª"


    "No, Tristan. Please don¡¯t cancel your plan." Bella, in a rush, interrupts him.


    Bella doesn¡¯t want Tristan¡¯s relationship with his parents to worsen because of her. Even though she doesn¡¯t like his parents, she doesn¡¯t want Tristan to sever ties with them. What she really wishes now is that his parents don¡¯t interfere with her life again.


    She squeezes his hand gently before saying, "I¡¯m really fine. But I¡¯m worried about you meeting them tomorrow."


    "Worried? Worried about what?"


    Tristan¡¯s eyebrows slowly wrinkle when he hears her sentence. However, a moment later, he realizes the meaning of her worry.


    He smiles lovingly at her and says, "My darling wife, don¡¯t worry about them. I¡¯ll take care of my parents. I promise they will not come right away to our house to meet you and Dax..."


    "No... No... it¡¯s not that, but what I mean is I¡¯m afraid your parents will call my parents and confront them. And, you know, I haven¡¯t yet settled my matter with my parents, right?" she says.


    "Oh, you¡¯re right..." Tristan is silent for a moment, thinking.


    He knows Bella wants to take revenge on her uncles and father and take the company from them. If her uncles and father knew about their relationship, they might use it to escape their current problem.


    "Okay, dear. Don¡¯t worry. I have a way to make my parents keep our relationship to themselves. They will not talk to anyone else..." Tristan firmly says, an evil smile slowly emerging on his lips.


    Looking at his sinister smile, Bella can¡¯t help but ask, "What is your plan?" She is curious.


    Before Tristan can answer her, the loud ringing of a phone echoes in the car.


    They both look at her bag on her lap.


    Bella immediately searches for her cell phone. When she sees who the caller is, she looks at Tristan. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Who is calling you?" he asks, frowning. He is worried that Sean is calling her.


    "Hubby, it looks like we have to go home now. Our little son called." Bella answers him while showing Tristan her cell phone screen and chuckles when Tristan immediately nods and puts on his seat belt.


    She also puts on her seatbelt before she accepts Dax¡¯s call.


    ****


    The next day.


    Bella decides to meet Amanda Spencer at the Sushi Tei restaurant near her office.


    She chose this restaurant because it is one of the Spencer family¡¯s restaurants and is within walking distance of her office.


    When Bella called Amanda to inform her about the location, Amanda was excited. She even volunteered to contact the restaurant to reserve the best VIP room for their lunchtime meeting. Amanda Spencer can do it very easily when it comes to Spencer Group¡¯s restaurant.


    After talking to Amanda, Bella sighed and leaned on her ergonomic and comfy office chair.


    Then she looked at her watch and realized she still had plenty of time before meeting Amanda Spencer. She plans to visit Stefan on the 20th floor in his computer room.


    However, Leo was running behind her as she walked toward the readily opened elevator door. He shouted slightly to stop her from entering.


    "Boss! Hold up. There¡¯s something you need to see..."

 Chapter 262: Roses From Him

    "Boss! Hold up. There¡¯s something you need to see..."


    Bella stops and turns to see him. She is surprised to notice he is holding a bouquet of white roses.


    "Huh!? Do you want to give that flower to your crush? Who is the lucky lady who finally tamed your cold heart?" she asks, smiling and teasingly at him.


    "Ha ha ha..." Leo can¡¯t help but laugh at hearing her words. "Well, looks like you misunderstood, Boss. These beautiful roses are for you. Someone just delivered them," He says while handing her the flowers.


    Bella is taken aback.


    "Is that for me? Are you serious?" Bella asked. She hadn¡¯t expected her husband to send her flowers after they had just separated a few minutes ago when Tristan dropped her off before he headed to his office.


    "Yeah, your name was clearly written on the note when my secretary received it from the courier. Please hurry up and take it before anyone sees us. They¡¯ll think I¡¯m trying to woo you by giving you white roses," he chuckles.


    "Ah, for me. Geez... My hubby is such a sweet man. To give me this sweet surprise..." Bella¡¯s smile grows as she accepts the roses.


    After she smells the roses¡¯ fragrance, Bella looks at Leo again and says, "Thank you, Leo. But I need your help... I¡¯m about to visit Stefan upstairs. Can you ask someone to put these in my office?"


    "Sure," Leo says, taking back the roses. His eyes fixed on the card tucked in the middle of the flowers. He reads the sender¡¯s name and looks surprised.


    He immediately looked at Bella, who was walking ahead to the elevator. "Boss, wait... I guess these flowers aren¡¯t from Boss Tristan," he said while running after her.


    Bella¡¯s steps halt once more. She frowns, looks at Leo, and accepts the card from him.


    When Bella reads the sender¡¯s initials, her knees turn jelly. She almost falls, but her hands grip the wall beside her to steady herself.


    Still unsure about what she read on the card. Bella read the names written on the cards a few times to make sure she didn¡¯t read them wrong.


    ¡¯Sean...¡¯ Bella whispers under her breath while swallowing hard, trying to remain calm and hide her shock. ¡¯How could he still have time to send me these flowers?¡¯


    She knows how strict the rules are at his base camp. They are not allowed to make contact with anyone outside the base camp.


    Bella heard from Sean that personal communication devices could not be turned on once they entered the base camp area¡ªeven for a young general, a team leader like him.


    ¡¯Did he ask Amanda again to send the flower?¡¯ Just thinking about it was enough to make Bella¡¯s face turn red. She feels embarrassed.


    ...


    Leo is even more confused when he sees Bella¡¯s face turn stiff as she reads the card.


    He can¡¯t help but ask, "Boss, who the hell is SS? I know this isn¡¯t Boss Tristan, right? His initials should be TS, not SS."


    "Ding!"


    The sound of the elevator arriving provides her with an escape. She doesn¡¯t bother to answer Leo¡¯s curiosity and immediately enters the elevator, ignoring him.


    "Talk to you later, bye!" Bella smiles while pressing the closing button, but the door won¡¯t close because Leo holds it. "Leo? What are you doing?"


    Leo smiles at her but then calls a female staff member who happens to be walking toward them. After instructing her to put the flowers in Bella¡¯s office, he immediately joins Bella in the elevator.


    "Alright, Boss." Leo smiles as the elevator door closes. Now, tell me who SS is!?" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella vented her frustration at the curious Leo. She didn¡¯t want to discuss Sean¡¯s matters, especially with him. It would be troublesome if he knew about Sean Spencer.


    She ignored him while looking at the elevator door.


    "Ding!"


    When the elevator door finally opened, she rushed out and asked, "How is Stefan¡¯s progress?"


    Leo is suspicious that Bella is hiding something from him. But when he hears Stefan¡¯s name, his steps suddenly stop.


    "Huh!? Why did you stop?" Bella asked. She also stopped and turned to him. Seeing his dark expression, she immediately knew something must have happened last night in this place.


    She stepped closer to Leo. With a worried look, she asked, "Ugh, Leo... did my brother successfully seduce you last night?"


    Leo¡¯s eyes widened, looking displeased at Bella.


    "Damn it! What the hell are you talking about, Bella!?"


    "...."


    "Gosh! Since when did you have a hobby to curse like this, Leo?" Bella smiled while shaking her head. "You know what? You are the most polite man I have ever known among the four of us... Did Jack and Harper influence you?"


    Leo¡¯s shoulders slumped. Indeed, when arriving in this place, he always cursed, mainly when he lived with Sam.


    "Sorry, I was just annoyed when I heard Stefan¡¯s name. Your little brother has ruined our peaceful night; we couldn¡¯t sleep at all. He kept us busy until the sun barely rose on the horizon," Leo said, annoyed. "You saw my panda eyes, right? I¡¯m exhausted!"


    Bella¡¯s face became red after hearing his words. She feels embarrassed about their intimacy.


    Now, she was sure that Stefan was interested in Leo. But what surprised Bella was when she discovered that Stefan was also interested in Sam.


    ¡¯Gosh! Stefan, you are such a naughty man...¡¯


    Bella sighed deeply before saying, in a sorry tone, "Leo, I¡¯m sorry to hear that, but I can¡¯t help you if my brother likes you."


    Leo, "..."


    Bella spoke again before Leo could say something, "I have something I want to clarify. You said my brother is also interested in Sam!? So last night, you guys...doing threesomes!?"


    "What the fuck are you talking about!?" Leo¡¯s eyebrows wrinkled as he stared at Bella.


    ¡¯Did she misunderstand something? Why did she assume the three of us? Damn, this woman¡¯s mind was indeed wild...¡¯ Leo can¡¯t help but vent his sarcasm in his mind, glaring at Bella.


    "Huh!?" Bella frowned. "Did I guess wrong?"

 Chapter 263: Misunderstanding

    Leo can¡¯t help but vent his sarcasm in his mind, glaring at Bella.


    "Huh!?" Bella frowned. "Did I guess wrong?"


    "Follow me!" Leo said before continuing to walk toward the seating area and leaving the clueless Bella in her place.


    After asking Bella to sit down, Leo continued to speak. "Last night, exactly at midnight, a big box truck arrived at this building carrying sophisticated computers and other stuff for Stefan. Because his presence in this place is confidential, we couldn¡¯t ask others to help. So, we had no choice but to help Stefan bring all his stuff to his computer room..."


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Jeez... Why is my imagination running wild? I thought last night they were busy doing threesomes till morning. Damn!!¡¯ Bella scolded herself while looking at Stefan¡¯s computer room door, which was still tightly closed.


    "I think he hasn¡¯t come out of his computer room since we finished helping him set up his computer early this morning," Leo said, following Bella¡¯s line of sight. Now, he was worried about whether Stefan was alright or had fainted inside.


    "Bella, is he okay? Let¡¯s check..." Leo suggested.


    Hearing Leo¡¯s worry, Bella also started to worry. She immediately stood up from the couch and looked at him.


    "Thanks, Leo, for helping Stefan all night. I¡¯ll check on him now. You can continue your work; there¡¯s no need to worry about him," she smiled to reassure him before heading to Stefan¡¯s computer room.


    ...


    Bella felt even more worried when she knocked a few times but got no answer from inside.


    "Stefan, may I come in?" Bella asked again while waiting a few more seconds, but she didn¡¯t hear an answer. So, she decided to open the door. Fortunately, the door was not locked.


    She saw that the room was neat and not as empty as before. There was a larger table in the center with a large desktop screen. Many screens were attached with numbers on each monitor on the wall in front of the desk. In the corner of the room, she also saw a few machines, like servers, arranged neatly.


    When she entered this room, Bella felt like she was in a TV station¡¯s news control room, which was completely different from the setting in Dax¡¯s computer room.


    Bella saw Stefan sitting in a chair similar to her son¡¯s gaming chair. He was immersed, staring at the monitor before him. At the same time, his fingers slid quickly across the keyboard, creating subtle keyboard sounds as he typed. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Stefan..." Bella called his name again, but Stefan didn¡¯t hear her. She smiled bitterly, seeing the headphones covering his ears. She approached him and patted his shoulder gently.


    "Oh, sister Bella, you came..." Stefan took off his headset and hung it around his neck. He leaned back in the seat casually while smiling happily at her.


    But Bella ignored his smile. She narrowed her eyes at him as if scolding him through her gaze, "You better start taking care of your ears, Stefan! Or you might get deaf if you listen to music too loud."


    "Ha Ha Ha... It¡¯s fine, sis. I¡¯m still young..."


    Bella was speechless. What did his young age have to do with damaging his ears?


    She could only take a deep breath. "Don¡¯t overwork yourself, Stefan. I hear you didn¡¯t sleep all night?" she asked with concern.


    "No worries, sis. I¡¯m still adjusting to the time here... Besides, yesterday I slept long enough to clear my mind, and now I have so much energy to work."


    Stefan said while standing from his seat. He also asked Bella to sit in the seating area in the corner near the huge glass window while talking.


    Bella sat opposite him.


    "Glad to hear that, bro. Oh, right..." Bella looked around the room and saw an empty spot in the corner near the seating area. "Is there anything else you need here? I mean, a coffee maker or fridge to keep your drinks or food?" she asked.


    Stefan also looked at the empty spot where he could place those items. He looked at Bella again and nodded. "Yeah, I need that. Going to the kitchen when I¡¯m busy would be troublesome. So, having a coffee maker and fridge will greatly help me."


    "Cool. I will ask someone to prepare it for you. And about your expenses for buying all this stuff," Bella pointed at his computer and servers. "I will transfer it to your bank. You just need to tell me how much you spent."


    Stefan immediately shook his head, rejecting her offer. He didn¡¯t need Bella¡¯s money. He had come here to help her as a form of gratitude, to repay her kindness for what she had done in the past.


    He would never forget those times when others and even his own family didn¡¯t believe him. Bella was there, offering him a job and helping him.


    Stefan had always greatly admired and respected her. He would never take advantage of her; instead, he wanted to help her in any way he could.


    However, she had always rejected his offers. When she suddenly asked him to temporarily move to this country to help her, he didn¡¯t hesitate to agree.


    Bella frowned, hearing Stefan¡¯s rejection. Did Jack already give him some money? She couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Why do you reject me?"


    "Sis, consider it a welcome gift from me because you finally returned to the company." He smiled widely when he saw her roll her eyes.


    "Oh, come on, Stefan... What¡¯s the logic in that? This is my company. You don¡¯t have to give me a welcome gift because I¡¯m back." Bella chuckled. She knew Stefan had shares in the company, but not many.


    "Ha ha ha... then just think of this as a gift for my lovely nephew Daxton. He can use all this stuff when I return to New York."


    Bella felt her heart warm when she heard that. She still accepted his offer even though she didn¡¯t need any of that because Tristan could buy their son an advanced computer, too.

 Chapter 264: It’s Start Now!

    "Fine. If it makes you feel better, I¡¯ll take it. Thanks, little brother."


    Bella smiled before asking him about his progress in starting their most ambitious plan to take over the Donovan Group from her uncle and father.


    "Is there any progress with the task I gave you?" she asked.


    Stefan¡¯s face immediately brightened, and his eyes sparkled when he saw Bella.


    "Sis, this is starting now! Well, when we talk now, the share price of your family company is starting to fall." A proud smile framed his face. He feels excited about creating chaos in Donovan Group.


    "You are indeed effective and efficient, Stefan. Okay, tell me more..."


    "The Donovan Group has a lot of swing traders who are trying to make a profit by taking quick gains from the fluctuations in company shares, which are currently unstable...you know what¡¯s happening inside the Donovan Group¡¯s management, right?"


    Bella nodded. She knew that Donovan Group¡¯s share price was starting to rise because of Dawson Group¡¯s investment in the company.


    Stefan continued to explain that the people who buy shares on the market are actually swing traders. They didn¡¯t trust the company yet, so when he released two negative news pieces about the Donovan Group a few hours ago, the prices started to fall as soon as the stock market opened. Many shareholders began selling their shares every minute because they panicked about the company¡¯s future.


    "I will make their prices touch the lowest limit in the stock market. And no one wants to buy those shares, even if they sell them at a discounted price¡­ When the price hits the bottom, I¡¯ll start buying back all the shares."


    Hearing Stefan¡¯s explanation was enough to excite Bella.


    "Perfect, bro. How many days do you need us to buy back all the shares from the public?"


    "Three days!"


    Bella was surprised. What news did Stefan upload that made all investors believe the company¡¯s shares would fall to their lowest price in three days?


    She felt curious and wanted to check the internet for the news. She also wanted to return to the East to see her uncles and father¡¯s panicked states.


    "That fast?" sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes. But buying out shares from big shareholders like your uncles, father, and other major investors will take a few days. We need to send people to negotiate with them. It makes them panic to finally sell their shares, which are no longer worth anything."


    "Okay, I will talk to Sam¡ª"


    "No need, sis. I already talked to Sam last night, and he said he would assign someone to do that." Stefan clapped his hands, feeling excited. "So, sister... next week, you may become the largest shareholder in the Donovan Group if our plan runs smoothly."


    Bella tried to hide her happiness at this moment, fearing it was too early to celebrate their success. But her wide smile betrayed her.


    "Sister, go home and prepare to pack your suitcase. You will fly to East City in a few days." Stefan chuckled when he saw her smile happily.


    "Haha, true! It looks like I have to fly there next week and hold an Annual General Meeting," said Bella.


    A sinister smile slowly framed Bella¡¯s beautiful face as she imagined attending a Donovan Group shareholder meeting and firing her first uncle from the CEO position. She also planned to ensure her father lost his job as COO of the company. She would only keep her Aunt Emma as CFO or appoint her as the new CEO.


    At this moment, Bella¡¯s mind was filled with many plans about her family, and the need to call her mother and Aunt Emma started bothering her again. Sigh!


    "Oh, Sister Bella... I need to confirm something with you." Stefan¡¯s face turned serious again, causing Bella to pay attention to him.


    "Yes. What is it?"


    "Regarding the company name¡­ I should buy back all the shares from the Donovan Group. Do you want me to use Quantum Capital?"


    "No. Use my anonymous company. This is my personal problem. I don¡¯t want Quantum Capital involved."


    "Understood, Sis... I¡¯ll take care of everything. You don¡¯t have to worry about it."


    A few minutes later, Bella and Stefan discussed many things before finally saying goodbye. She had to get ready to meet Amanda Spencer at Sushi Tei Restaurant immediately.


    ****


    At 11.55 AM


    Bella arrived at the VIP room of Sushi Tei Restaurant. She didn¡¯t rush to knock on the door, trying to adjust her expression because she felt very nervous.


    "Ma¡¯am¡­ pardon me to ask you this. But are you sure you don¡¯t want me to accompany you inside? I can be unnoticeable, Ma¡¯am. No one would suspect me guarding you."


    Bella was surprised to hear a man¡¯s voice from behind. It was Bryan, one of Tristan¡¯s people. She thought Bryan was already waiting for her in the restaurant hall. She had asked him to wait for her to have his lunch while she met Amanda in the VIP room.


    She looked at Bryan, standing four steps ahead of her. "Thank you, Bryan. But I think I¡¯m fine alone inside the Restaurant. Don¡¯t worry, the person I¡¯m about to meet inside is my best friend¡¯s aunt."


    "Excuse me for saying this, ma¡¯am. Would you allow me to check the room first before you enter? Besides, Mr. Sinclair has specifically asked me to do this..." Bryan insisted. He couldn¡¯t take this lightly because this woman was their big boss¡¯ wife.


    Bella silently took a deep sigh. She couldn¡¯t refuse Bryan; he was stubborn, just like Tristan, when it came to her safety. She nodded to Bryan and finally dared to knock on the door.


    Later,


    She faintly heard a gentle voice from inside, asking her to enter.


    When Bella opened the door, she saw a slender, size six woman with straight black hair hanging down her back, standing and looking at her. The woman looked classy in her black Chanel one-button suit and knee-length skirt. Her bold red lips slowly spread into a warm smile that framed her beautiful face.


    "Are you... Arabella Donovan, right?" She greeted her in a cheerful and friendly voice. "OMG! Bella, you are so beautiful..."

 Chapter 265: Meet Amanda Spencer

    "Are you... Arabella Donovan, right?" She greeted her in a cheerful and friendly voice. "OMG! Bella, you are so beautiful..."


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s nervousness disappeared as soon as she saw this woman¡¯s friendly smile reach her eyes.


    For some unknown reason, seeing and hearing Amanda talk to her in this friendly manner made her feel like she was meeting her best friend, Harper Reed.


    "Yes, I am. And you must be Sister Amanda Spencer?" S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, dear... Bella, let¡¯s talk inside." She smiled happily and invited Bella in. However, her smile slowly faded when she saw a tall man with a sturdy build standing behind Bella.


    The man looked handsome and mature in an all-black outfit. His gaze radiated alertness as he looked inside the room; he didn¡¯t even spare a glance at her.


    Amanda couldn¡¯t help but look at the man closely; she became suspicious.


    ¡¯Is this man Bella¡¯s boyfriend?¡¯


    She started to wonder while looking at the man from head to toe several times, trying to figure out if she had seen him before. There was a sense of familiarity, but no matter how much she tried, she couldn¡¯t recall where she had seen him.


    Another question now popped up in Amanda Spencer¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯If this man is Bella¡¯s boyfriend, what about Sean? Weren¡¯t they dating?¡¯ She silently took a deep sigh, feeling sour if what she thought was true.


    She tried to push aside that worry while turning her gaze away from the man and looking at Bella. But when she saw Bella smile at her, she could no longer suppress her curiosity.


    Amanda leaned closer to her and whispered, "Bella, sorry to ask, but who is the man behind you?" She casually asked. However, deep down in her heart, she was worried about her thoughts¡ªthat this man was Bella¡¯s boyfriend or, worse, her husband.


    If her assumptions were accurate, she would be in trouble for misleading her sister-in-law about Bella¡¯s relationship with Sean.


    ...


    Bella didn¡¯t answer right away. Instead, she turned to look at Bryan and spoke to him for a few moments before closing the door and smiling at Amanda.


    "Sister Amanda, that man is my bodyguard¡­" Bella said politely.


    Amanda felt relieved to hear that. She immediately asked Bella to sit.


    Bella sat on the chair opposite Amanda and continued, "He insisted on checking this room for my safety. I¡¯m sorry if he seemed rude, sister..."


    "Oh, it is fine, Bella. I¡¯m happy to know your bodyguard does his job properly." Amanda flashed a sincere smile at Bella while trying to calm her mind. She was increasingly curious about Bella¡¯s true identity.


    Amanda remembered when she was in Nova City to see Bella for the first time; she saw her coming out of the hospital with a man. Her assistant had said that the man was Bella¡¯s bodyguard. And now, she appeared here with a different bodyguard.


    ¡¯Who is she?¡¯ Amanda wondered. ¡¯Why does she have so many bodyguards around her?¡¯


    Amanda was troubled by the confusion surrounding Bella¡¯s identity. Despite using her connections to access the government¡¯s public database, she still couldn¡¯t uncover Bella¡¯s true identity.


    She had already tried to investigate the Donovan family in this country; she found thousands of people with that name. A few were wealthy families in other cities, but none had a daughter named Arabella Donovan. So, she assumed Bella had recently moved to this country; perhaps she was raised by her family abroad.


    Bella faintly smiled when she saw Amanda Spencer only looking at her without saying anything, which made her feel nervous again. She cleared her throat to draw Amanda¡¯s attention.


    "Sister Amanda, have you ordered our lunch?" When Bella saw her blink her eyes as if she was pulled out of her own thoughts, Bella continued, "Shall we order now?"


    "Oops, my bad... How could I forget?" Suddenly, Amanda¡¯s laughter echoed in the room as she called the waitress. "I apologize, Bella; I was so mesmerized by your beauty and happy to have met you that I forgot everything..."


    Bella, "..."


    "Me too, sis. I¡¯m so happy to finally meet someone I only saw on the news," Bella sincerely said.


    She wasn¡¯t just saying this to flatter Amanda; she genuinely meant it. Amanda Spencer was undeniably beautiful and elegant, and her aura differed from that of the wealthiest lady Bella had ever met. Talking to Amanda reminded her of her best friend, Harper.


    "Ha ha ha, all right, all right, let¡¯s order before we talk." They both started to order their lunch.


    After the waitress left the VIP room, there was no longer any awkwardness or nervousness. Bella and Amanda talked so casually that it was as though old friends had just reunited after many years apart.


    Amanda asked Bella about the progress of her legal dispute with Laura Kiels¡¯ fans. After a few minutes of talking while eating, they both realized they had similar business interests.


    Even when they finished eating, their conversation remained the same: business-related. They completely forgot the purpose of meeting here. Amanda wanted to know more about Bella and Sean¡¯s relationship. At the same time, Bella needed to draw a line between herself and the Spencer family to return the Spencer¡¯s powerful Black Card she received a month ago.


    However,


    Not long after, Bella received a text from Leo reminding her about the meeting with the legal team after lunch.


    Bella regained her focus. She immediately took a card box from her bag and put it on the table.


    After she pushed the card box toward Amanda, she said, "Sister Amanda, I know you sent this card to my office. I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t accept this one..."


    Amanda was taken aback when she saw the box. It took her a moment to realize what was happening. She looked alternately at the card box on the table and then at Bella.


    She didn¡¯t understand why Bella returned the card Sean gave her. She was supposed to receive or return it to Sean directly, not to her. Right!?


    Instantly, countless questions filled Amanda¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯Did they break up?¡¯

 Chapter 266: I Have A Son

    Instantly, countless questions filled Amanda¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯Did they break up? Is that why Bella returned this card to me? No, no... I don¡¯t think they¡¯ve broken up... It¡¯s impossible, right??¡¯


    Amanda remembered that the first thing Sean did after arriving in this country yesterday was call her and ask her to send flowers to Bella. Her nephew is such a sweet boyfriend. She now envies their young age.


    After pausing and thinking for a few more seconds, Amanda finally could express her thoughts.


    She smiled at Bella before saying, "Bella, I¡¯m sorry. This card is not from me but from Sean. If you want to return it, you should return it to him, right?"


    Bella was stunned.


    What Amanda said was on point. She had forgotten about Sean, who gave her that Black Card. But since yesterday, all that was on her mind was how to immediately return the card to Amanda. Gosh!


    Bella silently scolded herself, saying, "Sister Amanda, I know this is from Sean. But you are the one who gave it to me. So, can you accept it now? I... just can¡¯t receive this card." She lowered her gaze, looking at the card on the table.


    When Amanda heard her anxious and worried voice, she couldn¡¯t help but feel bad.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry if my question sounds rude. But I need to clarify something..." Amanda paused, waiting for Bella to look at her. When she saw Bella¡¯s confused gaze looking back at her, she continued, "Are you and Sean breaking up?"


    Bella was left speechless after hearing Amanda¡¯s question.


    And now,


    Hearing Amanda¡¯s question made her curious to know precisely what Sean had told his aunt about them. She was already worried if Sean had told Amanda they were a couple.


    How could he say that?


    She clearly remembered that she had only told him she would consider his heart if his parents accepted her without conditions.


    ¡¯Did Sean think they were already a couple because they shared a kiss that time?¡¯ Suddenly, Bella felt her blood turn frosty. ¡¯Damn! Bella...¡¯ She regretted allowing herself to accept Sean¡¯s passionate kiss at that time.


    After venting her frustration in her mind, she tried to look Amanda in the eyes again; she needed to clarify this.


    "Sis Amanda, I don¡¯t know what Sean told you about me. But it seems you misunderstand something."


    "Misunderstand? What do you mean?"


    "Sean and I are only close friends..." Bella says in her regret tone.


    When Amanda heard Bella¡¯s words, everything in her mind went blank, as if an invisible black hole had consumed her.


    ¡¯They are not a couple? But why did Sean give her our precious family Black Card?¡¯ It¡¯s hard for Amanda to believe this. It looks like she needs to speak to Sean about this immediately.


    Now, she felt extremely awkward meeting Bella.


    ****


    When Bella and Amanda met...


    At the same time, in Tristan¡¯s parents¡¯ house, Tristan was sitting in the large and luxurious living room facing his parents.


    Tristan saw his mother looking restless as if she wanted to say something, but no words came from her lips.


    It was amusing for him to watch his parents anxious, and for the first time, he felt at ease facing them, no longer feeling as angry as before.


    His long, slender index finger played with the white coffee cup. At the same time, he occasionally looked at his mother and father, exchanging glances as if they were asking each other to speak first.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t wait to see them looking confused about where to start talking to him. He couldn¡¯t blame their nervousness because all this time, he had always been angry if the two of them began bringing up a taboo topic: matchmaking.


    A few moments later, Tristan finally broke the silence.


    "Mother, Father," Tristan called them casually, but his firm voice immediately made the two of them look at him with a tense gaze.


    "Yes?" William Sinclair was the one who responded.


    Tristan looked at his watch and said, "I don¡¯t have much time; I still have an important meeting at the office. So, if you want to say something to me, say it now... I only have five minutes."


    Suddenly, Jessica Sinclair¡¯s face looked panicked, knowing that her son only had five minutes left for them.


    Sitting straight, Jessica began to speak, "My son, a few days ago, I met Aunt Miller. She asks whether you want to marry his elder daughter!? Her daughter is still 23 and has just graduated from a famous art school in France. Now she is back and will debut as a painter..."


    Jessica explained enthusiastically. She badly wanted her son to stop being single and get married again soon. Because her son is no longer young, she worries that they will not have a family successor if he is not married and produces an heir.


    "I met her a few days ago. Her name is Sally. She is gorgeous and elegant. I¡¯m sure that if you see her, you will immediately like her..." Jessica continued to convince Tristan.


    Seeing that her son, sitting casually with his legs crossed while occasionally sipping his coffee, didn¡¯t show any interest in what she said, Jessica continued, "I will arrange for you to meet her tomorrow. Or do you want me to send Sally¡¯s picture now?"


    "Yes, Tristan... you have to consider what your mother said. This is for the future of our Sinclair family¡¯s successor. Even though your grandfather doesn¡¯t care about our successor, I know he will definitely be disappointed if the Sinclair name ends with you. So, please listen to your mother... Huh!?" William Sinclair chimed in.


    Tristan placed his coffee cup on the table and looked at his parents with a calm gaze. His expression remains the same, uninterested in their conversation.


    "Are you both only concerned about my successor?" Tristan asked in his deep, charming tone.


    "My son... yes... yes... that¡¯s what mom worries about," Jessica said excitedly. Finally, her son spoke.


    "Yes, Tristan. This is for our family..."


    "You two don¡¯t need to worry about it. I already have a son," Tristan said casually, but Jessica and William were shocked to hear that. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 267: Hard To Believe

    "You two don¡¯t need to worry about it. I already have a son," Tristan said casually, but Jessica and William were shocked to hear that.


    "Y-YOU... YOU HAVE A SON??" Jessica stuttered. She was shocked to hear that.


    How could Tristan have a son when he never had a woman by his side?


    Jessica doubted it because she knew everything about her son¡ªa workaholic who didn¡¯t have time for dates. The rumors on the internet about him dating Laura Kiels were also false because she knew exactly who had made the news; it was Laura Kiels.


    "What do you mean, Tristan? Since when do you have a son? And how can that happen if you don¡¯t have a wife?" William Sinclair asked. He had similar thoughts to his wife. Tristan couldn¡¯t have a wife without them knowing. At least, that¡¯s what they wanted to believe.


    Just before Tristan was about to explain, William Sinclair continued his relentless questions.


    "Tristan Sinclair, are you hooking up with random women out there, and one of them is pregnant? Is that how you have a son we didn¡¯t know about? How dare you do that? Did you forget your status or the great family name you¡¯re carrying, huh?"


    William Sinclair can¡¯t help but scold her son. His face turned red as he imagined his son sleeping with a random woman only to father an heir for the Sinclair Family.


    Tristan was speechless.


    Hearing her husband¡¯s words, Jessica Sinclair suddenly felt dizzy. She imagined her son having a child out of wedlock with an unknown and likely low-class woman.


    ¡¯Oh my lord, forgive us...¡¯ She whispered while pinching her eyebrow.


    Jessica was still traumatized by what happened with Laura Kiels. She thought Laura was wife material for her son. However, Laura had a dark past and managed to deceive her.


    In her mind right now, she thought if her son got involved with another woman with an unknown background this time, she might end up in the emergency room, dying from an acute and severe high blood pressure attack. That¡¯s how terrified she was.


    "Tristan, my son, did one of the women out there claim she has your son? Are you sure that woman is telling the truth? Have you done a DNA test?" Jessica wanted to ask this but held back after seeing her son¡¯s face, as calm as Buddha¡¯s.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why does he look so relaxed?¡¯ Jessica began to doubt Tristan¡¯s claim that he already had a son.


    Seeing his calm expression, she could tell her stubborn son was just trying to find an excuse because they were constantly nagging him about marriage. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Son, don¡¯t try to deceive us with your random and silly excuse. How could you have a son without a legitimate wife? Not possible!" William Sinclair spoke again when he saw Tristan didn¡¯t say anything.


    Tristan shook his head, looking at them amusingly. He had already pictured his parents reacting this way.


    After waiting a few more minutes and looking at their curious eyes, Tristan finally had time to speak. "Are you guys done talking? May I speak now?"


    Even though they were increasingly confused by their son¡¯s calm and different attitude than usual, Jessica and William nodded curiously to respond to him.


    "I don¡¯t care if you believe me or not. My son is a healthy young boy. He¡¯s almost five years old now..." Tristan was silent momentarily when he saw his mother and father gasp while holding each other¡¯s hands, trying to restrain themselves from interrupting.


    Tristan fixed his cold gaze on his father. "And, Dad, I don¡¯t screw around with random women. Please don¡¯t compare me to your filthy friends or even project yourself on me. I am a respectful man who honors women¡¯s dignity and loyalty!"


    Then, Tristan looked at his mother with the same expression. He said, "Mother, thank you for raising me right. My son¡¯s mother is my legal wife, both in the eyes of the law and God¡¯s. And please stop assuming anything about me and my wife. If you keep doing that, you might regret it later."


    Hearing Tristan¡¯s soft but threatening words, Jessica¡¯s face turned as white as a clean sheet of paper.


    She opened her mouth to say something, but after a few attempts, her brain failed to force her tongue to produce even a sound. All the words in her mind seemed to stop at the tip of her tongue.


    Jessica could only grit her teeth, feeling frustrated and heartbroken because her son hadn¡¯t told her about this important matter. She felt that her son no longer saw her as his mother but as an outsider.


    William felt his entire body stiffen when he saw his son¡¯s serious expression. There was not the slightest hesitation in Tristan¡¯s eyes when he spoke.


    Seeing his son¡¯s seriousness, William Sinclair tried to think, analyzing the meaning of Tristan¡¯s words. It didn¡¯t take long for him to realize something. His body felt frozen.


    ¡¯No! It is not possible. IT IS NOT POSSIBLE! It¡¯s not possible, right? How could that happen?¡¯ William Sinclair muttered inwardly, trying to convince himself that what he thought was wrong.


    However, another fact appeared before he could dismiss his thoughts.


    ¡¯Father! Does he know? Is this why he didn¡¯t encourage Tristan to remarry?¡¯


    William covered his widening mouth with his palm, shocked by his thoughts. If his father knew about Tristan¡¯s son, then his suspicions about Tristan¡¯s wife were correct.


    He narrowed his eyes on Tristan before asking, "Tristan, does your grandfather know about your son? Has he even met your son?"


    Tristan smiled when he saw his father, who seemed already aware of his wife¡¯s identity.


    He softly said to his father, "Of course. Grandpa knows about my son. And yes, Grandpa has met my son. He even meets my son almost every day... Well, if I¡¯m not mistaken, Grandpa is moving into my house today."


    Jessica was deep in thought and still doubted the truth that her son had a son. She was suddenly shocked when she heard Tristan¡¯s last words.


    ¡¯Heaven! So, is all this true? My son is not trying to play a prank on us...¡¯

 Chapter 268: Let Me Meet Your Son!

    "Tristan Sinclair, oh dear... So it¡¯s true you have a son!?" Jessica asked.


    But Tristan didn¡¯t respond to Jessica¡¯s words, not even giving her a quick glance. He ignored her, his eyes fixed on William.


    Frustrated with her son, Jessica turned to see her husband and saw how mixed her husband¡¯s expression had been.


    William was not only shocked but also confused. His eyes met Tristan¡¯s calm gaze. When Tristan smiled faintly at him, William felt his heart suddenly warm.


    Finally, for the first time since his son had grown up, this was the first time William Sinclair could see that smile again¡ªthe warm smile of his only son, who he thought was growing further away from him.


    Trying to suppress his happiness at the moment, knowing that his son could show his warm side, William cleared his throat before asking again to confirm what he was thinking: The woman his son said was his wife must be Arabella Donovan.


    "Tristan, you said earlier... is your marital status with her still valid in the eyes of the law? How could that happen?" William asked. He was confused because he knew Bella had already signed their divorce papers five years ago.


    "Who? Who is the woman you said is your wife!?" Jessica asked Tristan, but he still ignored her, his eyes still staring at William. She turned her gaze again to her husband.


    "Will, who is the woman? You already know who she is, right? Tell me... Do I know her?" Jessica grabbed her husband¡¯s hand and asked for his attention. But, just like Tristan, William also ignored her.


    Jessica felt even more annoyed. She had a strong urge to give William and Tristan a scold, but she resisted when she heard Tristan say something.


    "Because I never processed that paper to the court..." Tristan answered his father casually.


    William was shocked to hear that. He never imagined Tristan hadn¡¯t submitted the letter to the court. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Why did he do that? Did he agree to divorce her because he never loved Bella!?¡¯ William wondered, his eyes still fixed on Tristan. A few seconds passed, and William couldn¡¯t suppress his curiosity. He asked again, "Why did you do that? You didn¡¯t love her, right?"


    "Because¡ª" Tristan¡¯s voice trailed off when Jessica screamed, distracting him.


    "STOP! You two answer me first! Tristan Sinclair... Who is your wife? Tell me. I need to know, and also..." Jessica paused for a moment to get some air to fill her stuffy chest.


    She feels utterly angry at that moment.


    When Jessica saw her husband and Tristan now looking at her, she continued, "I have to meet my grandson, Tristan. Bring me to meet him immediately... I need to make sure that boy is really your son!"


    Tristan secretly let out a long sigh, hearing his mother¡¯s words. He wouldn¡¯t allow her to see his son, Dax, until Bella allowed it.


    "Mother, I¡¯m sorry, but my wife didn¡¯t allow you and Father to meet our son. So, I can¡¯t bring you to meet him."


    Tristan¡¯s words sounded like punishment for Jessica. Making her even angrier.


    "WHAT!?" She couldn¡¯t help but roar, "Who is your wife? How dare she not allow us to meet our grandson? Who the hell does she think of herself?"


    Tristan, "..."


    If this woman were not his mother, he would have already cut ties with her. How could she say such hurtful words? Whoever his wife is, she deserves respect from her mother-in-law.


    Now Tristan could relate to how hurt Bella felt whenever his mother said hurtful things. Sigh!


    ...


    William¡¯s gaze was clearly disappointed as he stared at his son. However, he couldn¡¯t say anything because he knew how terribly he and his wife had treated Bella in the past. Bella had the right to do this to them as punishment. Now, he could only regret and blame himself.


    "I only have one wife, Mother. So, of course, you know her," Tristan patiently answered.


    "One wife? Who? Who the woman¡ª" Jessica straightened her back, feeling as if all the blood in her body was about to rush straight to her heart when she realized what her son said: his only wife was Arabella Donovan.


    ¡¯BELLA!!! THAT DAMN WOMAN???¡¯


    Jessica was almost choked. She stares at Tristan for the next few seconds without a word leaving her lips. She was too shocked to say anything.


    After a few moments, she said, "Is the mother of your son Bella!?" Her voice trembled, and she could feel her hands suddenly getting sweaty.


    "Yes, Mother. I only married to her, so of course she¡¯s the mother of my son¡ª"


    "Jess... Jessica... my wife... What happened...?" William shouted in shock when he saw his wife¡¯s body falling. He swiftly took her thin body and pulled her into his arms.


    Tristan was also panicked to see his mother faint. He stood from his seat and wanted to help, but William yelled at him.


    "SON, HURRY UP... call our family doctor!"


    Tristan nodded at his father.


    He took a deep sigh, looking at his father carrying his faint mother out of the living room. Then, walking toward the glass wall in the corner, he took out his phone and called his parents¡¯ personal doctor.


    After talking to the doctor, Tristan did not move from his place. He stood there alone, looking at the calm lake behind his childhood home.


    Tristan¡¯s mind reels back to his past. He really misses his childhood when they were all still a happy family.


    He remembers playing with his parents and grandparents in the lake and forest behind their house during those times.


    However,


    When he became a teenager, all the happy times were taken away.


    He had to learn all the basics to become the heir to the Sinclair Group. His father started to change; he was no longer seen as a father but as a teacher, and then his father slowly became his boss.


    The worst thing that made Tristan think he was living in hell was when his parents started looking for a suitable wife for him. Almost every month, his mother invited a few aunties and their daughters to dine with them¡ªsomething he hated.


    Afraid his parents would continue to find a woman for him, he agreed with his Grandpa to marry his best friend¡¯s granddaughter, Bella. At first, he only married Bella out of duty; no love was involved.


    But God opened his heart and mind; he started to love her when she left.


    And now he is madly in love with her.


    Tristan sighs deeply, and a faint smile slowly appears on his lips as he whispers her name,


    "Bella..."

 Chapter 269: I Owe Her An Apology!

    Tristan sighed deeply.


    A faint smile slowly appeared on his lips as he whispered her name, "Bella..."


    He takes out his cell phone to text her. However, before he can type anything, a text appears.


    Tristan¡¯s smile grew wider as he read the sender¡¯s name; it was his wife, Bella.


    How did she know he was about to text her to ask where she was now? He feels they seem to communicate telepathically.


    [Bella] Hubby, I miss you. I just wanted to let you know that I¡¯m now meeting with my legal team in my office.


    Tristan¡¯s heart slowly calms, and he feels relieved knowing she is back in her office.


    Since last night, when he knew she would meet Amanda Spencer today, his mind had never stopped worrying about their meeting. He didn¡¯t know why, but a strange worry emerged in his mind: the Spencer family would steal his wife.


    [Bella] This meeting is so boring. I hope you come to pick me up soon! (Cry Emoji)


    He feels amused reading her text. Just before he wanted to reply, another text came in.


    [Bella] How is your meeting there? Is everything okay?


    [Bella] (Curious Emoji)


    He immediately replies to her short message.


    [Tristan] Everything is fine. I told them about us and our sons.


    He sends the text, and a second later, Bella replies.


    [Bella] Glad to know that.


    [Bella] Are they positive about it? (worry emoji)


    He types fast again,


    [Tristan] Yes. But my mother fainted.


    However, before he presses send, his hands stop typing. He suddenly feels worried about letting her know about his mother¡¯s condition; she fainted after hearing the news about them. He fears this news will distract Bella from her meeting.


    After a quick thought, Tristan decides to talk to her at home later.


    He immediately erases his text and types another one, telling her he will call her later when he picks her up.


    His loving smile slowly frames his face when he reads Bella¡¯s sweet reply,


    [Bella] Okie, hubby! Love you... (Kiss Emoji) (Blushing Emoji)


    ¡¯Why does she sound so happy? Did something happen in her office?¡¯ Tristan wonders. He was suspicious because his wife rarely used love emojis when she texted him.


    Just before Tristan wants to reply again, he suddenly hears his father¡¯s voice right beside him.


    "Glad to see you finally happy like this, my son..."


    Tristan glances to see his father standing beside him. He puts his cell phone in his trouser pocket before following his father¡¯s line of sight to the lake outside.


    He laughed inwardly because he was too immersed in his own thoughts and exchanging texts with his wife, causing him not to realize anything was happening around him. He didn¡¯t even know when his father started standing beside him.


    "How¡¯s Mother¡¯s condition?" Tristan asked without a glance at his father.


    William Sinclair took a deep sigh before responding to his son.


    "The doctor said your mother was just experiencing sudden and extreme shock and exhaustion. But he also said she would be alright. He has prescribed her several medicines to help her calm and also to help her sleep."


    Tristan doesn¡¯t say anything else but feels relieved to hear that. At least nothing life-threatening happened to his mother after she knew he was returning with Bella after their long separation.


    However, even though he is relieved, Tristan can¡¯t shake off the suspicion that has long been bothering his mind. This began when he found strong indications that his mother hated Bella to her core.


    In the past, he heard from Geoffrey about how terrible his mother treated Bella. But her mother was careful. She treated Bella with nonverbal abuse when Tristan was around and soft but verbal abuse when he wasn¡¯t. That¡¯s why he only heard about it when Geoffrey told him. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Since then, he always asked himself, "Why did Mother hate Bella so much? Did something happen between them that I didn¡¯t know about?" This question appears in his mind almost every day before Bella returns to this country.


    "Tristan..." William said, turning to his son before continuing, "You can return to your office. There¡¯s no need to wait for your mother to wake up."


    William was worried about his son¡¯s work. He delayed his return to the office because his mother fainted.


    Tristan glanced at his watch. It was almost three o¡¯clock. He really had to go back and finish his work before picking up Bella.


    He nodded and excused himself; however, his father stopped him before he could walk away.


    "My son, this is about Bella and my grandson..." William Sinclair¡¯s voice sounded shaky. He reluctantly expressed what was on his mind. However, he had to say it. "Can I meet them?"


    William knew it was unlikely Tristan would allow him to meet Bella. Still, he needed to apologize to Bella for his ignorance and past actions. He had allowed his wife to abuse his daughter-in-law verbally.


    Tristan stopped and turned to see his father. "I¡¯m sorry, Father, but I cannot decide anything. I will ask my wife whether she will consider meeting you and Mother." He had already promised to protect Bella¡¯s heart and not allow her to suffer again.


    "It¡¯s okay, my son. I understand if she finds meeting me and your mother hard." William answered. He did not feel offended or disappointed when he heard his son¡¯s rejection. "But, can you tell Bella¡­ I¡¯m going to see her without your mother. And tell her I owe her an apology."


    Tristan was taken aback by his father¡¯s words. He had never heard his father say those words before, but just now, he heard his father say he owed Bella an apology.


    ¡¯Did I hear wrongly?¡¯ Tristan wondered while looking into his father¡¯s eyes. He was surprised to see his father¡¯s eyes turn red. ¡¯He is sincere!¡¯


    Silently, he took a deep sigh. He didn¡¯t say a word but nodded before leaving the room.


    ****


    Meanwhile, at the Donovan Building in East City.


    "CLANK!!"


    Jacob Donovan threw his coffee cup on the floor. He was furious to see the company¡¯s share price plummet as soon as the stock market opened this morning. By the time the stock market closed, the value of Donovan Group¡¯s shares hadn¡¯t increased by even a penny.

 Chapter 270: The Big Four

    Jacob Donovan was furious to see the company¡¯s share price plummet as soon as the stock market opened this morning. By the time the stock market closed, the value of Donovan Group¡¯s shares hadn¡¯t increased by even a penny.


    "WHO THE HELL IS TRYING TO MESS WITH US??" Jacob Donovan roared while looking at his two younger brothers and his younger sister, Emma, ??sitting in the seating area.


    None of them said anything.


    They did not even glance at Jacob.


    They were all as shocked as Jacob, still unable to understand why the company secrets they were hiding were now exposed on the internet.


    Jacob became increasingly annoyed looking at them. He walked towards the seats and slowly looked at his siblings one by one, with eyes that seemed to want to pull their hearts from their chests and tear them apart into small pieces.


    After a few more seconds passed, his eyes fixed on his younger brother.


    "Thomas Donovan!" Jacob snapped, causing everyone to look at him. He continued, "Why are your past scandals, bribing government officials to facilitate the shopping center construction project, resurfacing in the news?" He asked while settling onto the sofa, his eyes locked, staring intently at Thomas.


    "How could I know? If I knew who leaked the scandal, I would have killed him right now," Thomas Donovan answered. He also felt angry. Why does that news resurface again?


    Since this morning, Thomas has been trying to delete the news from the internet, but the hackers he paid a lot of money can¡¯t stop the news. When he wanted to call him, he could not contact him. The hacker had disappeared.


    Thomas felt even more miserable when he heard their company was in big trouble. It wasn¡¯t just the plummeting share prices; the police were investigating a bribery case involving a government official.


    "Damn it! You¡¯re really useless, Thomas!" Jacob¡¯s shout made Thomas Donovan only sigh, unable to refute his brother¡¯s words. He was indeed useless. And he was annoyed with himself for being powerless.


    Silence hung in the air.


    No one spoke as if they were now thinking of another way to escape this situation.


    Jacob tried hard to calm his heart. If this matter isn¡¯t solved, he might end up in the emergency room because of his high blood pressure. The stress of the company¡¯s condition was overwhelming.


    Meanwhile, Thomas and the others didn¡¯t know what to say, afraid that what they said would make their brother even angrier.


    However, after another minute, Lucas couldn¡¯t hold himself back from speaking. He looked at his brother before expressing what was on his mind: "Brother, why don¡¯t you ask Bradley for help?"


    "Damn! How could we forget him?" Thomas said, looking at his eldest brother before continuing, "Brother Jacob, what Brother Lucas said is right. We have to ask Brother Bradley for help. He will definitely have a solution for us..."


    Thomas¡¯s smile, absent since this morning, suddenly reappeared as he realized there was still hope for their company to be free from this complicated problem.


    Jacob Donovan stopped pinching his forehead when he heard their words. His brow furrowed as he looked at his two younger brothers alternately. Seeing how clueless both of them were, his expression became sour.


    "Don¡¯t you guys read the news?" Jacob asked.


    "What¡¯s the news?" Thomas responded confusedly. All day, he had been too busy dealing with the hackers who ran away from him and didn¡¯t have time to read any news on the internet.


    Meanwhile, Lucas is also clueless. He found negative news about their company too scary to read, so he avoided the Internet all day long.


    "What happened to the Dawson Group?" he asked.


    Jacob took a deep breath before explaining, "I called him a few hours ago to ask for help. But he can¡¯t help us. He also has a big problem there..."


    "What problem is he facing? Why is it at the same time as us?"


    "Suddenly, all the suppliers stopped collaborating with Dawson Group. Everyone canceled their work contracts to sell their goods there..." Jacob explained the problems facing the Dawson Supermarket chain.


    Instantly, Lucas and Thomas froze, unable to utter anything when they heard Jacob¡¯s explanation. This was indeed a massive matter for Dawson Group.


    Emma Donovan, ??who had been silent at the end of the sofa as if she didn¡¯t care about her brothers, was also shocked to hear the news about the Dawson Group.


    However, her shocked expression was only briefly before it was replaced by a faint smile that slowly emerged on her lips. In her heart, she was secretly overjoyed to hear the bad news.


    ¡¯Old geezer Bradley! How dare you ask for a marriage arrangement for my niece!? Now, eat your punishment!¡¯ She cursed Bradley Caville in her heart.


    "Waah... indirectly, will Dawson Supermart be empty? There won¡¯t be anything they can sell?" Lucas said. It was hard for him to believe something like this had happened, where all the suppliers in Astington refused to sell their goods to supermarket companies such as the Dawson Group.


    "Yes!" Jacob took another deep sigh.


    "Who did Brother Bradley offend this time? Why did he get into such trouble? Their problems are bigger than ours..." Thomas Donovan chimed in.


    The room became silent again.


    Later, Jacob finally said, "As far as I know, only a few large companies can do such a thing, asking suppliers not to sell to Dawson Group..."


    "Who?" Thomas Donovan asked curiously.


    "The big four, Stearn, Collins, Spencer, and¡ª" Suddenly, Jacob¡¯s voice trailed off as he realized something.


    "What? Who¡¯s the last company?" Thomas asked again.


    "No. Not the last... but the first..." Jacob said as his eyes fell on Lucas.


    Thomas, still clueless, asked once more, "Who, brother? Who could bring down the Dawson Group this fast!?" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas and Jacob ignored their younger brother. They stared at each other as if communicating with their gazes. And it didn¡¯t take long for Lucas to understand what his older brother wanted to say; suddenly, he could feel his blood running cold.


    "Sinclair..." Lucas said, turning his gaze to look at Thomas.

 Chapter 271: They Are Back Together?

    "Sinclair Group..." Lucas said, turning his gaze to look at Thomas. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "HOLY CRAB! Why did Sinclair punish Dawson so severely? Since when did Brother Bradley have any connection with Sinclair Group?" Thomas asked in shock.


    No one answered Thomas¡¯s questions, and there was no sound in the room. Lucas and Jacob were drawn into their thoughts, having a mental breakdown with the twist that happened and knowing that nothing could stop it.


    "Oh my god!" Suddenly, Lucas Donovan¡¯s hand turned cold when he realized something. When he saw all eyes on him, he continued, "Did Tristan know Bradley was eyeing to marry his ex-wife? My daughter?"


    "Huh?! How could he know? Did any of us here tell him about it?"


    "What? No way! We are solid¡­ Are we?"


    The room temperature instantly dropped below zero.


    Jacob opened his mouth to say something but stopped when he noticed his sister Emma¡¯s happy smile as she looked at her cell phone. Her joyful smile instantly raised the suspicion in his mind.


    ¡¯Why did Emma smile? This girl must know something! She looks too delighted when the company is in a critical situation!¡¯


    Still, he refrained from confronting Emma about why she smiles when things are in bad shape. He didn¡¯t rush to ask her but waited a few moments to confirm that his suspicion was reasonable.


    He thought Emma¡¯s bright smile would fade when she heard Lucas and Thomas arguing about Tristan Sinclair, which caused the Dawson Group to face their downfall. But no. Her smile remained unchanged. It was clear she was happy despite the terrible situation their company had experienced.


    "Emma..." Jacob called unhurriedly and as calmly as possible. Still, his tone was assertive and powerful enough to make everyone suddenly hold their breath and turn to look at him.


    "Yes, brother?" Emma responded, slowly hiding the smile on her face. She was surprised when she saw her older brother¡¯s sharp gaze on her as if he wanted to drill her mind through his eyes.


    "Emma, my dear sister. Would you mind speaking frankly with me? You know, hide nothing and tell me the truth," Jacob asked firmly, but he spoke as casually as he could.


    But the look in his eyes betrayed his casual tone. He clearly showed that he was giving an order. "What happened to our company and the Dawson Group?" Jacob continued.


    Lucas and Thomas gasped in surprise at Jacob¡¯s question. They both looked at their sister, Emma, curious about what was happening inside her mind.


    Emma swallowed silently while trying to calm her expression, yet her stuttering betrayed her. "Wh-what do-do you mean? Wh-why do you assume I know so-something that you¡­you don¡¯t?"


    Jacob chuckled.


    "I¡¯ve known you for too long, little sister. Just a glance at your expression, I immediately knew that you were hiding something from me. All right, now tell me. Don¡¯t try to lie to me. You know¡­ I¡¯m not a patient person, right?" he said sternly.


    Emma gritted her teeth while silently cursing her eldest brother in her heart. She really couldn¡¯t hide anything from him. How annoying!


    After a deep sigh, Emma finally said, "I don¡¯t know about the Dawson Group. But, Father called me this morning¡ª"


    "What!! Father called you?"


    "Why didn¡¯t you tell us earlier, sis?!"


    Jacob narrowed his eyes at Lucas and Thomas, "Shut up, both of you!" he snapped. "Let her finish her words first before anyone says a word."


    They both pressed their lips, holding back the sudden curiosity in their minds and waited for Emma to finish speaking.


    "Father called me, and in his ambiguous, passive words, I could tell that he was asking me not to get involved in whatever you guys were planning and going to do," Emma said honestly.


    This morning, she received an ambiguous call from their father telling her in many words, but basically, it comes to that.


    When she asked her father for a more straightforward explanation or at least confirmation of what she thought he was saying, he said nothing else. He only asked her to visit him in the capital at her first opportunity.


    At first, Emma wasn¡¯t suspicious of her father¡¯s words.


    However,


    After reading the news on the internet this morning about the sudden fall of their company¡¯s share price and hearing almost all the companies that collaborated with them express worry about the company¡¯s situation, they decided to withdraw from their project. Not only that, but their clients also started to get nervous, and some even canceled their new venture plans with her company.


    She began to connect it with her father¡¯s vague warning.


    And just now, hearing what happened to the Dawson Group from her brothers convinced her that her father¡¯s words this morning must have something to do with all this.


    "That¡¯s all?" Jacob frowned. He still doubted it. This girl must be hiding something. She looked too relaxed.


    "Yes. Father didn¡¯t say much after that. He just asked me to visit him in the capital. So, I decided to fly there tomorrow," Emma answered him.


    "Sister Emma, what are you doing? Flying to the capital when the company is in this dire situation? Do you forget you are our CFO?" Thomas Donovan flared, looking at his sister. How could she leave when they were all stressed, trying to fix the problem?


    Emma glared at her younger brother.


    "Do not patronize me about what to do or not to do, Thomas. You don¡¯t have to remind me of that. I know what I¡¯m doing. Also, you have to understand that I¡¯m an employee here. I have a right to take a day off! So, I will take my first day off in many years, starting tomorrow," Emma said.


    She turned her gaze to Jacob again, ignoring her foolish younger brother. They wouldn¡¯t be in this situation if not for his stupidity in bribing officials.


    Emma silently sighed when she saw Jacob looking pensive as if drawn into his thoughts. She knew this situation was not simple. Someone was stirring all this from behind, but she didn¡¯t know who was trying to mess with their company and the Dawson Group.


    The room fell silent again.


    They were all lost in their own thoughts.


    However, a few seconds later, one name appeared in Emma¡¯s mind: Tristan Sinclair.


    But again, she immediately dismissed that name because it seemed impossible for Tristan Sinclair to get involved with their family after what happened a few years ago.


    ¡¯Ugh! Why does this matter feel so odd? Tristan starts messing with the Dawson Group. He must know about my brother¡¯s plan to force Bella to marry Bradley, right? But why!? Why did he do that?¡¯


    Instantly, Emma felt her blood turn frosty with her thought, ¡¯OMG! Are they back together?? That¡¯s why Bella has returned to this country?¡¯


    She searched for her father¡¯s phone number and texted him.


    [Emma] Dad, are Bella and Tristan back together?


    It didn¡¯t take long for an answer to arrive.


    [Dad] Visit me, and you will find your answer.


    Emma¡¯s hands trembled as she read the text.


    ¡¯Heaven! They are back together...¡¯ she was sure of it.


    Without waiting any longer, Emma stood. "Brothers...I have to go now. I still have many things to do downstairs." She walked quickly and left the room without waiting for them to ask her anything.


    She needed to fly to the capital as soon as possible.


    _____


    *CFO = CFO stands for "chief financial officer." The CFO is the top financial position held by an individual in a company or organization.

 Chapter 272: You Don’t Like the Results?

    At Quantum Capital Building


    Bella had a long, tiring meeting with the legal team, during which they discussed the legal steps the company would take in cases of defamation and various other cases they take for their other companies.


    The meeting started at two in the afternoon and had just finished at four-thirty. She was exhausted as she walked back to her office.


    She needed a warm cafe latte to shake off her tiredness.


    However, Bella was surprised when she opened the door and saw Stefan curled up on the sofa, with his head covered in his hoodie.


    "Huh!? Why is he sleeping here?" Bella stopped right on the door, smiling. Just before she could ask someone, a female secretary approached her hurriedly.


    "Ms. Donovan, I¡¯m sorry," the secretary stammered, her voice tinged with anxiety. "I tried to persuade your friend to wait outside, but he insisted on waiting for you in your room despite my warnings that your meeting would stretch for hours."


    Bella smiled at her.


    "It¡¯s okay. You did the right thing. You may continue your work," she said and entered the room.


    She didn¡¯t rush to wake Stefan. Instead, she tidied up her desk¡ªher husband would pick her up in thirty minutes.


    Later, she made two cups of coffee before joining Stefan in the sitting area. She woke him up after putting the espresso on the table near him.


    Seeing Stefan wake up and rub his still-sleepy face made Bella feel sorry for him. He must be exhausted and struggling to adjust to the time difference between here and New York, his base.


    Stefan¡¯s eyes narrowed at Bella, and he quickly grabbed his glasses from the table and put them on.


    "Oh, you¡¯re finally back, sister..." He greeted Bella in a hoarse and deep voice. His slight smile framed his face, and he looked happy to see her again.


    "Hmm," Bella responded with a small smile, watching Stefan sit up properly to face her.


    "You should sleep upstairs, in your own room, Stefan! Why are you waiting for me here?" Bella said faintly, worried about his health. This kid really didn¡¯t care about his well-being.


    "I¡¯m fine, sis...I just need to rest my eyes." Stefan grinned as he ruffled his hair, trying to fix some of the strands covering his eyes.


    Bella sighed deeply before gesturing for him to drink his coffee.


    "Drink your coffee; you need it to wake up. And don¡¯t sleep now...try to adjust to the time here." She worried about his jetlag.


    Stefan nodded and sipped the warm coffee before looking at Bella again, "Finally, your boring meeting is over, sis..."


    Bella was surprised to hear Stefan¡¯s words spot-on.


    "How do you know I was bored inside?" Bella asked. She didn¡¯t like discussing legal matters, preferring to focus on business strategy. In the past, when she was still active at the head office, Jack handled problems like this.


    "I checked the CCTV and saw you were busy looking at your phone and typing something fast."


    "Hahaha..." Bella¡¯s laughter echoed in the room. She remembered that she was exchanging messages with Tristan.


    "Well, I wasn¡¯t playing around. I was sending a message to my husband," Bella continued as she placed her latte cup on the table. "How is the work you are doing now? Is there any progress you can report?"


    "Oh, yeah! Sis, this is why I can¡¯t wait to meet you and update you on the current situation in East City." Instantly, Stefan¡¯s sleepy eyes disappeared, replaced by excitement, as if a flame was burning in his eyes.


    Bella was thrilled to hear about the progress of the mess they were creating for the Donovan Group.


    "Alright. You have my full attention now. Tell me the important points only."


    "Your family¡¯s shares have dropped to their lowest value since they were listed on the stock exchange. In addition, the case I posted on the internet has triggered a police investigation into their officers who allegedly have accepted bribes from the Donovan Group."


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s body stiffened, and her smile faded upon hearing that. All day, she had been too busy. She didn¡¯t check what news Stefan had uploaded to the internet.


    "Oh my lord, you¡¯ve released the bribery scandal with government officials? Any chance anyone could trace it back to you?" She was surprised to hear that.


    "Yes and no. Yes... that¡¯s the only case I thought could be released to cause the Donovan Group¡¯s shares to fall quickly. And no worry, no one can trace it back to me without my knowledge," Stefan answered, happy and proud to have done his work efficiently, fast, and discreetly.


    However, sitting in her seat, Bella immediately felt her heart beating faster. She didn¡¯t expect the news to involve a police investigation and high government officials.


    Stefan continued, "Your uncle hasn¡¯t left the office all day, and all their telecommunications devices have been turned off. I don¡¯t know what they¡¯re doing now, but I know from your aunt that they¡¯re, as a matter of fact, in chaos. We managed¡ª" Stefan fell silent when he saw her face looking pale. "Sister Bella, why do you look pale? Are you okay?"


    Bella snapped out when she heard Stefan call her. Trying to adjust her shock, she smiled at him, "Pale? No. I¡¯m not¡­I¡¯m fine!" she said while sandwiching her face with her palms. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I can see you don¡¯t look fine, Sis. Do you perhaps not like the results?" Stefan scratched his head, which didn¡¯t itch. He was afraid that Bella wouldn¡¯t like the results they achieved today.


    "I can release other news that can immediately make their share price plummet...to the bottom of the abyss," he grins.


    "No, you don¡¯t have to. I¡¯m content with the progress you made today. There¡¯s no need to release any other news." Bella immediately stopped him.


    Stefan¡¯s brow furrowed, "Are you sure, Sis?"


    "Yes. Continue with what we have planned."


    Stefan was silent for a moment, observing Bella¡¯s expression. She was no longer as shocked as before. Her facial color had returned to normal, and her eyes looked calm.


    He nodded in agreement with her before saying, "Okay..."

 Chapter 273: They Will End Up In Prison!

    After a few seconds passed, Bella glanced at Stefan again. She tried to express what worried her now.


    "Stefan, you said earlier that you released news about bribery and the police being involved, right?"


    "Yes."


    "Is it serious?"


    "Of course. What¡¯s more, now is the political year; this country is about to hold a general election to elect a president. Officials who commit corruption are heavily attacked by their political opponents, so everyone involved will not escape. They will end up in prison."


    Bella¡¯s hands felt cold, imagining her father, who was involved.


    "Who is responsible for that case?" she asked.


    Stefan didn¡¯t understand Bella¡¯s question. "What do you mean, Sis?"


    Even though she hated her father, she was concerned about him going to prison. Her tone couldn¡¯t hide her worry when she asked, "From the Donovan Group, who is involved with the bribe scandal?"


    Bella wasn¡¯t worried because she felt sorry for her father. However, Stefan is concerned that if the public finds out that Lucas Donovan is her father, the public perception toward Tristan might be hurt, especially if the public knows about their relationship as a married couple.


    Sigh!


    Stefan, silent for a moment, didn¡¯t answer Bella right away. He looked toward the scenery outside as he tried to recall the data he had retrieved from the Donovans¡¯ cell phones and laptop databases.


    After a few more seconds, he looked at Bella.


    "Thomas Donovan, your younger uncle... He is in charge of the project. And besides him, your first uncle may be affected too because he is the company¡¯s CEO."


    "How about my father and Aunt Emma?"


    "From the data I obtained, I can confirm they are not in any part of the wicked plan¡­"


    Instantly, Bella felt like the heavy burden that had been pressing on her chest was released. She could breathe easily, knowing her father and Aunt Emma were not involved.


    "Thank you, Stefan," Bella smiled at him. "Alright, I have to go home now. My hubby is waiting downstairs. You can go back upstairs and continue your work..."


    "Ok, Sis..." Stefan finished his coffee and stood up. However, before he left the room, he stopped in his tracks and turned to see Bella, who was reading her phone near her table.


    When he saw her smile, he hesitated to ruin her happy moment with the other news.


    But before he continued to walk, his heart told him to stop. This kind of news couldn¡¯t be hidden. After a deep sigh, he said, "Sister, there is something you need to know..."


    "What is it?" Bella turned to Stefan, who was leaning against the door frame.


    "It¡¯s about your father," Stefan paused momentarily as if something was stopping him from continuing because what he was about to say might crush her heart.


    Bella could see that Stefan seemed to be having trouble speaking, which made her worry. "Say it, Stefan!"


    Stefan ran his fingers through his hair and turned away, avoiding her curious gaze.


    "Ugh, Boss... I¡¯ll send you everything I¡¯ve found out when I investigated your father," he said and left.


    Bella, "..." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Stefan¡¯s unclear sentences made her even more curious and confused. Shaking her head, she continued to tidy up her desk. However, she couldn¡¯t stop being suspicious about Stefan¡¯s odd behavior.


    ¡¯Darn it! That kid... How dare he make me this curious?¡¯ she muttered while reading a short message from Tristan, informing her he had already arrived.


    Rushing to the elevator, Bella saw Leo exit from a small meeting room in the corner. He looked like he had just finished a meeting with his team.


    "Going home now, Boss?" Leo smiled as he walked beside her to the elevator.


    "Yes! My husband is waiting downstairs..." She glanced at him while pressing the elevator button.


    "He is always on time, huh!"


    Bella could only chuckle when she heard that, but a second later, something crossed her mind.


    "Where¡¯s Dana? I haven¡¯t seen her..." She asked, realizing Leo¡¯s favorite secretary hadn¡¯t been around for the past few days.


    "She is taking time off and will return tomorrow." Leo casually answered, but somehow, his heart swelled thinking about her.


    They exchanged a few words before Bella entered the elevator. The moment the door closed, an email came in.


    It was from Stefan.


    Curious, she immediately opened the email, and what she found shocked her.


    Her hands trembled as she pushed the play button and saw a woman and man entangled in bed, naked. The sounds of the two making love instantly made the air in the elevator turn cold.


    Too shocked, she couldn¡¯t help but curse Stefan, "What the fuck, Stefan!! Why did he send a porn video¡ª" Bella¡¯s voice instantly trailed off when she recognized the man.


    Without noticing, her cell phone slipped from her hand. "OH MY GOD!!" She screamed while covering her mouth with her palm, afraid someone could hear her.


    Later,


    She lowered her gaze, seeing the nasty video still playing, showing a man now riding a young woman in a room that resembled a hotel room.


    Bella was shocked not because of the video content but because the man in the video was her father, and the woman was too young to be her sister, definitely not her mother.


    While holding onto the elevator wall, she bent down to pick up her cell phone from the floor. She immediately turned off the video.


    She felt disgusted seeing the video, making her feel nauseous and almost throw up. She tried to control her heavy breathing while leaning against the elevator wall. Her legs felt too weak to support her.


    Ding!


    When the elevator opened, Bella couldn¡¯t bring herself to step out.


    "Ms. Donovan, are you alright?" Bryan panicked when he saw Bella struggling to walk. Her face looked colorless like she had just experienced an intense shock.


    Bryan walked inside and stood before her with his back facing her.


    "Apologies, ma¡¯am. If you don¡¯t mind, you can hold onto my shoulder," he offered help. When he didn¡¯t hear her respond, he glanced over his shoulder and continued, "Do you want me to call Mr. Sinclair?"


    Bella flinched upon hearing her husband¡¯s name.

 Chapter 274: Shocking Video

    Bella flinched upon hearing her husband¡¯s name.


    She immediately shook her head.


    "No! Thank you, Bryan. I can walk by myself¡­" She took a deep sigh before starting to walk.


    When Bella arrived at the car, she could see Tristan¡¯s worried expression.


    She tried to avoid his curious gaze as she greeted the driver and Dylan, who sat in front before staring back at Tristan again.


    "Sorry to keep you waiting¡­" Bella said, flashing him a loving smile, but his expression remained unchanged; he looked worried. "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    Not hearing an answer from him, Bella looked away out the window. She tried to calm the shock that still bothered her after watching her father¡¯s indecent video. But a few seconds later, Tristan¡¯s voice made her look back at him.


    "Did something happen there?" Tristan finally asked as he raised his hand to stroke her pale cheek. He could clearly see her expression, which looked different from usual. There was no joy there.


    "Nothing happened. Why did you¡ª" Bella trailed off, shocked, seeing Tristan¡¯s head getting closer to her. She thought he wanted to kiss her but stopped just inches from her face. She blinked, waiting for him to do anything.


    "My pretty wife, I can clearly see you look like you¡¯ve just seen a ghost¡­" Tristan smiled while rubbing her nose. "Tell me, what happened?"


    Bella let out a deep sigh. Instead of rushing to answer him, she pressed the button to raise the divider. She couldn¡¯t discuss her father¡¯s matter when Dylan and the driver could hear them.


    After the divider entirely covered them, she turned to Tristan. "Are you sure you want to know?"


    Tristan was even more confused hearing her question, yet he nodded. "Yes. Of course..."


    She took her cell phone out of her bag and turned off the volume before handing it to Tristan.


    "You can see for yourself..." Bella said, turning her gaze outside the car. She felt embarrassed as Tristan watched her father¡¯s sex video with a young woman.


    Bella still couldn¡¯t fathom how her father could do such a humiliating thing. Since leaving the elevator, her mind hadn¡¯t stopped racing to think about it.


    Countless questions tormented her, seeking an answer.


    Why did father do this?


    Why did her father betray her mother, who loved him so much and was even willing to put up with his violent temper?


    Does Mother know about this scandal!?


    If Mother knew, why would she still stay with him?


    How many women does Father have out there?


    These questions kept swirling in her mind, making her head hurt. She also began to feel a burning anger in her heart. She was very angry with her father¡¯s shamelessness.


    Another deep sigh escaped her lips as she tried to calm herself.


    However, not long after, she hears Tristan calling her.


    "My dear wife, Bella..." Tristan¡¯s voice was soft and close.


    She saw his deep ocean-blue eyes staring back at her, which made her anger toward her father slowly fade.


    A faint smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips before she asked, "Have you seen it?"


    Tristan awkwardly nodded. After watching the video, he didn¡¯t know what to say or how to react. He was just as shocked as Bella to see his father-in-law having sex with a young woman.


    "You recognized the man, right?" Bella asked.


    Of course, he knew. In just a few seconds, he immediately recognized Lucas Donovan, his father-in-law whom he had only met twice since marrying Bella.


    "Hmm, I know," Tristan answered calmly as he cupped her hand over her thigh. The feeling that his wife¡¯s hands were icy made him worry.


    Sigh deeply, he said, "My Dear, I don¡¯t know what to say about the video. But if you need my help, please just tell me. I will help you..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but smile at Tristan.


    Like him, she didn¡¯t know what to do about her father.


    Only one thing was clear: she must call her mother. For the last few days, she had consistently failed to do so because she didn¡¯t know what to talk about, but now, there was a strong reason for her to reach out.


    "It¡¯s fine, Hubby. As for my father, I don¡¯t have any plans to do anything right now..." Bella finally responded to Tristan¡¯s words.


    "Okay..." said Tristan before asking about her steps in bringing down the Donovan Group. He had read the news circulating out there and could see the direction of her plan, but he needed to hear it from her. Also, it would divert her worries about her father¡¯s case.


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s eyes lit up when she talked about those matters. She didn¡¯t hide anything from Tristan; she explained the situation at the company and how the police might investigate her two uncles.


    "I was worried that my father was involved in the bribery case. But my own investigation clears him from any involvement..." Bella ended her explanation with a wry smile.


    Tristan¡¯s eyebrow slightly raised when he heard that, "Huh!? Why don¡¯t you want your father involved? I thought you hated him so much?"


    "I do hate him. But I¡¯m not worried because I feel sorry for him... I¡¯m worried that news about him will affect you, especially if our relationship becomes public knowledge," Bella explained.


    That¡¯s the only thing that worries her. Her family problems will impact Tristan¡¯s company, Sinclair Group, and their shares will plummet, just like the Donovan Group.


    "Hahaha..." Tristan¡¯s laughter echoed in the car, causing Bella to frown at the sight. "Oh dear, don¡¯t worry about that. Even if the news comes out later, it won¡¯t make my company suffer like the Donovan Group," he said while ruffling her hair lovingly.


    "Really? Are you sure your company will be fine?"


    "Hmm, only part of our company has gone public. Our main company will never go public. So, don¡¯t worry. This kind of thing will not bother me."


    "I see..." Bella finally felt relieved. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They continued chatting seriously, and not long after, their car stopped in front of their residence.


    Bella feels worried because she didn¡¯t see Dax, who usually waited for them in front of the house but was not there today.


    She rushed to enter the house, but her steps stopped when she saw a familiar face in the living room talking with her son and Grandpa.


    "A-Aunty Emma?"

 Chapter 275: Talk With Aunt Emma (1)

    "A-Aunty Emma?" Bella muttered under her breath as she grabbed Tristan¡¯s arm, too shocked to see her aunt in their house.


    Worried that Aunty Emma was not the only one who had come, she looked around to check but didn¡¯t see anyone else¡ªonly Grandpa Sinclair and Aunty Noora were in the room.


    Feeling relieved that her uncles and father were not there, Bella looked at Tristan, who seemed calm beside her. She narrowed her eyes, suspecting he knew about Aunt Emma¡¯s arrival, but hid it from her.


    "Did you know about this?" she asked him barely audibly; only he could hear her.


    Tristan lowered his gaze, looked at her, and shook his head. "No. Like you, I¡¯m also shocked to see your aunty here..." He whispers.


    She doubted it because his expression remained calm, and she saw no surprise in his eyes.


    "Hubby, did my aunty come with anyone?"


    "No. She¡¯s come alone¡ª" Tristan pressed his lips tightly, realizing he had answered wrongly. Damn!


    Bella, "..."


    She knew it. This man must have known about Aunt Emma¡¯s arrival. Bella presumed he would know it nonetheless. His loyal butler, Geoffrey, would call him if something significant happened at the house, right?


    Bella silently took a deep sigh, narrowing her eyes at him.


    When she saw his eyes flutter with his deadpan expression, she said, "Mr. Sinclair... It seems you want to sleep on the couch. Fine! Even though I feel lonely sleeping alone, I will grant you that for a week!" She smiled miserably while patting his shoulder.


    "Wh-What..."


    Bella was amused when she saw his calm expression fade and turn into panic mode. Holding back her laughter, she released his arm and walked toward the seating area, trying to calm her emotions, looking at her aunty.


    ¡¯Huh!? What happened? Did I make the wrong move?¡¯ Tristan silently scolded himself for not telling her earlier. He thought she would be happy with this surprise.


    Tristan followed her, trying to come up with a plan to coax his wife. How could he return to the couch? No way!


    ...


    Dax jumped from his seat when he saw his mother and father appear in the living room.


    "Mommy¡­" Dax shouted, running toward them. He stopped right before his mother and held her hand before greeting his father. "Daddy!"


    "My baby Dax..." Bella ruffled his hair before leaning down to kiss his chubby red cheek. "Did you have fun today?" she asked, looking into his bright blue eyes.


    Dax nodded. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Excitedly, he said, "Mommy, look... Look... There¡¯s Grandaunt Emma. She just arrived with Grandpa to meet us. Come, Mom and Dad, let¡¯s greet Grandaunt."


    His excited voice made Bella¡¯s chest feel heavy as if a barbell were placed inside her, and her breath grew short.


    When they last met in the hospital, Bella didn¡¯t have time to talk to her Aunty Emma. But she still clearly remembered her aunt scolding her uncles and even her father when they all blamed her for divorcing Tristan and running away.


    Bella turned her gaze to her aunt. However, when she saw Aunty Emma already standing with teary eyes looking at her, Bella instantly felt like someone had just cut an onion in front of her eyes.


    Struggling to hide her teary eyes, Bella turned her gaze away from Aunty Emma and looked at Tristan beside her. She leaned closer to him and whispered to take their son away from the living room; she needed to talk to her aunt first.


    Tristan smiled at her and bent down, picking Dax up and carrying him in his arms.


    He whispered to her, "Go talk to your aunty. I will bring Dax and Grandpa upstairs¡­"


    "Thanks..."


    Tristan nodded, then walked toward Aunty Emma. He greeted her briefly before walking out of the living room, gesturing for his Grandpa to follow them.


    Dax tightened his arms around his father¡¯s neck while looking at his mother and Grandaunt Emma, who were crying and hugging each other. He didn¡¯t understand why he was being taken out of the room even though he still wanted to chat with all of them.


    Once he could no longer see them, Dax looked at his father, who was still holding him firmly. "Daddy, why are Mommy and Grandaunt crying? Are they fighting?"


    Dax¡¯s innocent question took aback Tristan and Lewis Sinclair.


    "Of course not, buddy..." Tristan smiled at his son while continuing to walk to the second floor. "Mommy cried because she was so happy to finally meet your Grandaunt finally... The same with your Grandaunt; she is also happy."


    ...


    Several minutes passed, but none of them in the family room started to speak. The only sound that could be heard was Bella and Emma¡¯s soft sobs.


    Isaac sat in his chair, looking pensive. His eyes were fixed on his daughter and granddaughter. He wanted to speak several times but held back to let them express their sadness.


    Since arriving in this city, Emma had been in shock. Her suspicions about Bella and Tristan were finally confirmed when her father admitted they were still married and living together.


    Emma was even more shocked to learn that Bella and Tristan had a son.


    It was hard for her to believe until her father took her to this house to meet Dax in person. Looking at Dax¡¯s eyes, she was speechless because they were the same color as his father¡¯s, Tristan.


    Even then, Emma still didn¡¯t fully believe it. She would only believe it if she saw Bella and Tristan with her own eyes.


    When Emma suddenly saw Bella and Tristan coming together, her tears couldn¡¯t be stopped. She was happy because her niece was still Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife. She had never imagined this since she had thought they had divorced five years ago.


    No wonder Tristan Sinclair dropped a massive financial bomb on the Dawson Group¡ªthat old geezer Bradley Caville tried to steal his wife. Gosh!


    Emma felt joy and wanted to laugh before Bradley and her foolish brothers.


    She wondered if her brothers knew about this secret; they would definitely become heart attack patients in the hospital. Especially her foolish brother, Lucas!

 Chapter 276: Talk With Aunt Emma (2)

    Bella couldn¡¯t hold back tears when she saw her Aunt, who was always strong, sobbing like a child.


    However, she couldn¡¯t find the words to say to her, as if all the sentences she strung together in her mind were stuck there.


    She opened her mouth a few times to speak, but her words could not leave her lips. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Feeling helpless, Bella turned her teary eyes to her Grandfather. She was slightly surprised to see him also staring back at her with mixed emotions, causing Bella to frown.


    Before Bella could ask him anything, Isaac Donovan cleared his throat and said, "Bella, I¡¯m sorry I let your aunt come here." His voice quivered. "Your aunt is facing some difficulties in East City, so I asked her to visit me here to calm herself."


    Isaac Donovan worried that Bella would blame him because he could not keep his word to keep a secret from their other family members. Despite his agreement with Bella to hide this, he also wanted to share this happy moment, especially with his own daughter, Emma.


    He continued, "I¡¯m really sorry to make you cry, my dear granddaughter. You can scold Grandpa, but please don¡¯t vent your anger on your Aunt."


    Bella silently sighed, looking at her Grandpa, who seemed to blame himself.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m not mad at you...and how could I¡ª" Bella began, but before she could finish, Emma chimed in.


    "Oh...Bella, please don¡¯t be mad at your Grandpa," Emma worried about coming to Bella¡¯s house without permission. She was too excited to know her niece had a son, so she forced her father to bring her here.


    Bella, "..."


    ¡¯Aunty, can you let me finish my words?¡¯ Bella silently chuckled inwardly, amused at her Aunt, panicked in the middle of her tears.


    "Be-Bella..." Emma continued while wiping the tears from her cheeks. "I actually guessed about you and Tristan after what happened in East City," she explained in her hoarse voice.


    Hearing her Aunt¡¯s words surprised Bella. How could Aunt Emma have guessed it so right!? She wiped away the remaining traces of tears that rolled down her cheeks, trying to adjust her emotions and speak with her Aunt.


    But once more, she paused when her Grandpa said, "Granddaughter, your Aunt found out by herself. But I¡¯m the one who told her about you and Dax."


    "Grandfather, I understand," a faint smile appeared at the corner of her lips before Bella turned her head again to look at her Aunt Emma.


    Something caught Bella¡¯s attention, and she needed to clarify things with her Aunt. "Aunty, you have sharp senses. How did you guess it?"


    Emma, who had stopped crying, moved beside Bella and held her hand. With a happy and enthusiastic gaze, she explained what was happening at the Donovan Group, the news on the internet, and the buzz shaking the company.


    Later, after she told Bella all of that, her laughter suddenly echoed in the room.


    "Ha Ha Ha... Oh, Bella... Please don¡¯t blame me for feeling so happy looking at your uncles¡¯ and father¡¯s suffering with what happens in the company. I think this is their karma for blaming you for the company¡¯s bankruptcy..."


    She continued to tell Bella more about how panicked her brothers were now in East City. And how the shareholders started to complain to them.


    However, Bella no longer hears her Aunty¡¯s words. She was confused to realize something. She raised her eyebrow slightly and glanced at her Grandfather as if asking, "Haven¡¯t you explained that I caused trouble in the company?"


    Isaac Donovan only smiled while shrugging his shoulders when he saw Bella¡¯s questioning gaze.


    "But, Bella, what made me suspicious was when that old man Bradley Caville had the same problem with our company. I became suspicious that someone was attacking him. And only one person could do that, Tristan Sinclair," Emma stopped momentarily to catch her breath. "And because I was suspicious, I immediately contacted your grandfather to confirm my suspicions."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. Is Sinclair attacking the Dawson Group today? She wanted to ask but held back to let her Aunt finish her words.


    Emma smiled and said, "We guess Sinclair has asked all suppliers not to sell their goods to the Dawson Group. When I flew here this noon, I read the news: several Dawson shops are starting to experience a shortage of goods. Maybe their stock will run out in a few days, and all their shops across this country will shut down."


    "Wait, Aunty..." Bella said, stopping her Aunt. She could no longer hold herself back from confirming her guess about Tristan¡¯s move to teach the Dawson Group a lesson. "So, you said Dawson is starting to experience a shortage of supplies from suppliers starting today?"


    Bella hadn¡¯t heard about Tristan¡¯s actions. Since this morning, she has been too busy thinking about the Donovan Group and doesn¡¯t care about others. She didn¡¯t know that Tristan had attacked Dawson simultaneously as she attacked Donovan Group.


    "Yes, I heard from your first uncle, Jacob," Emma smiled happily before continuing, "He called Bradley this afternoon for help, and the old man said something like that. Ugh, that old geezer might close his company within a few days. And, you know what?"


    "What is it, Aunty?"


    "Well, the latest news I heard is that Bradley called Jacob. He wants his investment money returned; he doesn¡¯t want to continue their cooperation with our company..." Emma chuckled when she saw Bella roll her eyes.


    "What a stupid and greedy man he is! We¡¯re lucky we could break off from him," Isaac, who had been silent, finally spoke. "And he thinks it¡¯s easy to withdraw investment money? Idiot. By the way, Emma, ??did you know anything about the agreement letter?"


    "No. I don¡¯t know, Dad. But I can ask our legal team to look for it and send us a copy once they find it. If they can find it and you still want to see it..." Emma answered vaguely.


    "No need, Aunty. I have their letter of agreement." Bella firmly but casually said, shocking both Emma and Isaac. They both looked at Bella in surprise.


    "You¡¯ve seen it? How did you get it?"


    "Yes, yes! How can you get the paper, Bella? I¡¯m the company CFO, and I have never even seen the agreement letter."

 Chapter 277: Talk With Aunt Emma (3)

    Instantly, Bella froze upon hearing the question.


    Bella silently scolded herself for being too casual about a matter her grandfather and aunt were deeply concerned about.


    She mentioned having a business agreement between Donovan and Dawson Group, implying she had an insider or was breaking the company¡¯s secret through a powerful hacker. But she didn¡¯t reveal anything about her exact method.


    Hopefully, they wouldn¡¯t guess she had a hacker. Otherwise, she would be in trouble explaining Stefan¡¯s existence to them.


    Just before Bella wanted to respond, Isaac Donovan chuckled slightly, stopping her to speak.


    Isaac narrowed as he leaned in, his voice filled with suspicion. "You must have a formidable hacker, right?" he asked, his gaze fixed on Bella. Seeing her avoid his gaze, he couldn¡¯t help but smile. "Ah, that must be it. You must¡¯ve asked Max to hack the Donovan Group, right?"


    Bella was speechless; she looked at him while chuckling inwardly. Gosh! How could he know about that?


    "Grandpa, since when did you know Max was a hacker?" Bella asked.


    "Oh, I know about that, alright. Because my brilliant great-grandson Dax never holds any secret from me." Isaac Donovan casually said, but Bella instantly felt her throat dry.


    How could Dax know about it? Did Max tell Dax about his daily job?


    Bella was sure that Tristan and she had never told their son about Max¡¯s identity. So far, they had only said that Max was a computer expert who led the IT department at his father¡¯s office.


    Before Bella could say something, Isaac spoke again, "You know what? This is why I strongly encourage Dax to learn from Max. I hope that in the future, my little Dax will become the number one hacker in this country!"


    Bella almost fell out of her chair when she heard that.


    ¡¯Geez, Grandpa¡¯s idea is really random. Why does he suddenly want Dax to be a hacker?¡¯ She silently took a deep sigh, hearing her Grandfather¡¯s words. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, my god... So, little Dax already knows how to operate a computer?" Emma was shocked when she heard her father and Bella talking about her grandson, who was now learning computers to become a hacker.


    "Yes, of course..." Isaac proudly smiled. "He will become a great hacker in the future; he is an extremely smart boy. Heck, he is a super genius boy!"


    Emma gasped in shock. "Wah...Wah... No wonder I feel like speaking to an adult when I speak to Dax."


    "Ha ha ha... You will be surprised to see how genius our little Dax is!"


    Bella, "..."


    Hearing her grandpa and aunt talk about Dax¡¯s future instantly made her dizzy. Or was she so hungry because it was now dinner time, and they had not yet finished talking? She could no longer tell the difference.


    Sighing profoundly and gazing at her grandpa, she said, "Grandpa, I¡¯m glad you think Max is a genius hacker, but I didn¡¯t get it from Max. Other resources at my disposal were used to gain the info. My apology because I can¡¯t share with you who or what the resource is."


    "Really? Are you being frank here with me?" Isaac doubted her words and still suspected she had asked Max to do it.


    However, Bella ignored his doubtful expression and continued, "And Grandpa, I will not force my son to become a hacker. In fact, I don¡¯t really plan too much about my boy¡¯s future. Just the usual plan like any other parents have for their kid. As long as he is happy, that would be enough for me. But I will support whatever he wants to do in the future..."


    Even though Bella knew her son, Dax, had the profound natural gift to become a computer expert, she would not direct him to master just one field. So, no. She was not forcing her son to become a hacker.


    "Hahaha, I know, my dear Bella. I¡¯m just saying that because my little Dax loves learning everything about computers. I believe he will beat his teacher, Max!" Isaac Donovan¡¯s proud smile slowly appeared again.


    Bella was utterly speechless.


    Talking to her grandfather about this matter would prolong the conversation. She needed to divert the conversation, and suddenly, she felt her stomach growl.


    She glanced at her watch to check the time for dinner.


    Just in time, Geoffrey came in and rescued her. He invited them all to dinner.


    ...


    After a delicious dinner, where everyone enjoys the food too much to continue their previous conversation, Isaac Donovan heads back to his house.


    At the same time, Lewis Sinclair takes some well-deserved rest in his room. Tristan and Dax have already made their way back upstairs.


    Bella continues to talk with Aunty Emma in the living room.


    They have so many things to discuss, especially the Donovan Group matters.


    Bella doesn¡¯t hide anything from her Aunt Emma. She tells her about the bribery news on the internet. And, because of the news, the share price of the Donovan Group has fallen to its lowest ever. She also caused discord among the shareholders. It¡¯s all her orchestration.


    This information shocks Emma completely. She didn¡¯t think her niece could do that. When she finds out Bella is still married to Tristan, she thinks Tristan has helped her get revenge on all her brothers, but she guessed wrongly.


    "Bella, did you do it because you knew the Dawson Group owner wanted to marry you?" Emma asks. She believes Bella already knows about the marriage arrangement, so she is mad.


    When Emma finds out about it, she is just as mad as Bella. She strongly opposes the idea, but her brothers, Jacob and Thomas, support it, using the company as an excuse. Because of that, she can¡¯t do anything to cancel the marriage arrangement.


    Bella took a deep breath before answering, "No, Auntie¡­ Initially, I didn¡¯t plan to use this harsh method to take revenge on my uncle and father for what they did to me. But, when they sent a gangster to kidnap me, I decided to do this."


    "Oh my god!" Emma¡¯s hand trembled as she covered her gasp, too shocked to hear her brothers sent a gangster after Bella. "What were they thinking? How could they do that to you? Waaah¡­ I will make sure to scold them all later!"


    Emma¡¯s face turned red with anger. If she were in East City, she would rush to meet them all, give them a hard slap, and scold them.


    "B-Bella, are you okay? Did the gangster hurt you?" Emma looked at Bella worriedly, holding back her anger towards her brothers.


    "I¡¯m fine, Auntie... I¡¯m fine," Bella patted Emma¡¯s hand gently. "The gangsters didn¡¯t have a chance to harm me. My husband assigned someone to guard me, so everything was alright."


    Bella wasn¡¯t entirely honest because she didn¡¯t want her family to know she had martial arts abilities.


    "Thank God," Emma muttered, smiling. Her anger slowly faded, but she was still upset with her brothers. She would teach them a lesson at every opportunity.


    "Auntie, my uncles and father were not the masterminds. They are not the ones who sent the gangster. It¡¯s a vile act of¡­Bradley Caville..."


    "WHAT!?" Emma was shocked.

 Chapter 278: The Shameless Mr. Sinclair!

    "WHAT!?" Emma was shocked. "Are you sure about it?"


    Emma was furious when she heard that. How dare that old geezer, Bradley Caville, use violence just to marry her niece? How shameless.


    "Yes, Auntie. That¡¯s why my husband attacked the Dawson Group..." Bella explained with a smile.


    "I knew it! It must be Tristan who battered the Dawson Group. Only his company could do that," Emma couldn¡¯t help but laugh happily. "I¡¯m so happy, pleased to know that the old man finally gets his rewards!"


    "Well, my husband wanted to teach my uncles a lesson, too, but I decided to stop him from punishing my shameless family. I won¡¯t let him stain his hands¡­"


    "True¡­ True..."


    Bella continued to tell Emma her entire plan for the Donovan Group. She planned to drive down their share price, take over the shares, and seize control of the company. After that, she intended to dismiss her uncles and father from the company and appoint a professional to lead it.


    Emma was shocked to hear that, but her shock was soon replaced with loud laughter.


    "Ha ha ha..." Emma¡¯s loud laughter echoed in the room, surprising Bella. "Hahaha... Oh, Bella, you are so brilliant. You made a great plan. All my brothers deserve that."


    Emma continued, "They are a bunch of stupid men who don¡¯t know how to work. If your grandpa did not own the Donovan Group, they would have been fired by the company owner since the day they entered the company."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh, too, hearing her aunt curse her brothers.


    They continued talking about many things, from work to family, causing them to forget about time.


    Later,


    Bella gazed out of the window. The night grew darker, with no moonlight and only a few stars in the sky.


    When Bella looked at her watch, she was surprised to find it was almost ten o¡¯clock. No wonder she started to feel her entire body exhausted.


    Bella turned to see her aunt. She could see how tired she was, too.


    "Auntie, we should end our chat now. It¡¯s almost ten o¡¯clock."


    Bella smiled when she saw her gasp in surprise, checking her watch. "Auntie, let¡¯s meet tomorrow morning; I¡¯ll come to Grandpa¡¯s house for breakfast with you."


    "You¡¯re right, Bella," said Emma as she stood up before continuing, "I was too happy to meet you and didn¡¯t realize we talked for so long. Alright, you need to sleep."


    "Hmm, Auntie, you too..."


    "Don¡¯t make Tristan angry with me because I kept you here for too long. Go sleep now; there¡¯s no need to send me out," Emma said, gently patting Bella¡¯s shoulder.


    Bella suddenly blushed when she heard her aunt teasing her. She said nothing but insisted on walking her to the main door. She also asks Noora to walk her aunty to Grandpa¡¯s house.


    After she saw her aunt walk with Noora to her grandpa¡¯s house, she immediately entered the house and rushed to the second floor.


    ****


    When Bella returned to her bedroom, the room was dim, with only a tiny yellow lamplight in the corner. However, she could still see something that made her heart flutter.


    Smiling, she walked towards the bed and stood at the end of the bed for a while, looking at the two men she loved most sleeping soundly.


    Her husband was sleeping while hugging their son, Dax. They both looked cute in the matching pajamas she bought a few days ago.


    After a few more minutes, Bella decided not to wake them. She didn¡¯t have the heart to ask her son to move to his bedroom, so she would let him sleep with them tonight.


    Bella rushed to the bathroom to clean herself. She canceled the idea of ??soaking in warm water. Somehow, she felt tired and just needed to lie in bed and sleep. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella entered the walk-in closet to choose her pajamas, her eyes fell on the handwritten notes on the table in the middle of the room.


    [Dear, please wear this matching pajama. And, for tonight, let our son sleep with us. Love you so much!]


    Her smile widened when she saw her pajamas¡ªthe same color as Tristan and Dax¡¯s¡ªcute bunny-print pajamas.


    After putting on her pajamas, Bella immediately joined her son and Tristan in bed. She slept next to Tristan, who was in the middle.


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately close her eyes but stared at the ceiling above. Her mind began to think back to what happened that day.


    Many things had happened today, and although her mind and soul were tired, she also felt happy.


    The Donovan Group issues were enough to distract her from her complicated meeting with Amanda Spencer. She was so happy with the progress they achieved today in her plan to punish her uncle and father.


    But again, her emotions stirred when she knew her aunt had suddenly visited them. She didn¡¯t expect another member of her family to learn about her relationship with Tristan this fast.


    Her initial plan was to tell her mother after she took over the Donovan Group.


    However, she has to change her plan again. Now, it looks like she needs to meet her mother sooner or at least help her mother escape from her cruel husband.


    Bella felt so worried about her mother now, especially after hearing from her Aunt Emma how miserable her mother¡¯s condition was.


    Sigh!


    ...


    Afraid that her movement would wake Tristan and Dax, Bella tilted her body slowly, facing Tristan¡¯s broad back. Gently, she placed her hand on his waist and rested her head on his back, trying to sleep.


    But,


    A few moments later, Bella¡¯s eyes opened again when she remembered something.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could I forget? I already punished him for not sleeping on the bed...¡¯


    A faint smile crossed her lips as she realized Tristan¡¯s trick.


    ¡¯Mr. Sinclair, you¡¯re cunningly good at finding a way to sleep in our bed, huh!?¡¯


    Bella vented her mixed feelings, between gladness and sarcasm in her mind while laughing in her heart. How dare he use their child as an excuse to sleep in bed?


    How shameless!

 Chapter 279: She Knows

    Next Morning.


    Bella¡¯s eyelashes fluttered as she felt a movement beside her. She opened her eyes, but the bright light blinded her, so she closed them again.


    After adjusting her eyes, she met Tristan¡¯s bright but calm gaze staring back at her. His face was so close to hers.


    She was taken aback and blinked a few times to adjust her view, feeding her eyes with his handsomeness.


    "Good morning, my sexy wife¡­"


    Tristan¡¯s alluring voice was enough to drive her mind to do crazy, sexy things with him, like throwing herself into his arms and kissing his sexy and warm lips.


    However, she buried her desire as fast as she breathed, worried she would awaken his little brother down there. It would be troublesome if their son, who now slept with them, saw them intimate in the morning.


    Sigh deeply, Bella hid her face under the blanket, too shy to see Tristan staring at her like he was about to eat her. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "My darling wife, why are you still shy!? This isn¡¯t my first time seeing your beautiful morning face¡­" Tristan said.


    Bella, "..."


    She didn¡¯t dare to move under the blanket. She didn¡¯t even dare to speak.


    But it didn¡¯t take long; Tristan pulled the blanket over her head and revealed her flushed face. She looked so damn pretty, causing him to want just to keep her in this room, not willing other people to see how pretty she is.


    When Bella saw his face lean in, his eyes burning with passion, she instantly hid her face against his firm chest.


    "Oh, please... stop teasing me, Tristan! Or our son will wake up," she said barely audibly, afraid Dax would hear.


    A soft chuckle escaped Tristan¡¯s lips, causing Bella to frown slightly and look up to see his face.


    "My wife," Tristan¡¯s hand landed on her waist as he pulled her closer. Noticing her glare, he reassured her, "Don¡¯t worry, our son has already moved to his bedroom. No need to be shy..." He said and kissed her forehead gently.


    "Since when? Why didn¡¯t I notice?" Bella said, trying to get up to check the other side of the bed where their son slept last night. Seeing the spot empty, she turned to Tristan with a frown.


    "Did I wake up late..." Bella trailed off when she saw that it was only five-thirty¡ªtoo early for their son to be awake. "Huh? Why is he up so early? Does he have another morning class with Geoffrey?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her. Instead, he pulled her back into his arms, where she fit perfectly. A happy smile slowly emerged on his lips as he placed his arms around her.


    He whispered near her ear, "Darling, sleep again. We still have plenty of time¡­"


    Bella looked up to see his face. Ignoring his sultry gaze, she asked, "He moved alone? I mean... Did you wake him up to move out?"


    "No...No... of course not. He woke me up and said he didn¡¯t want Noora or anyone to know he slept with us. So he woke up early and moved to his bed."


    Bella narrowed her eyes as if to say, "Seriously?" with her gaze. She doubts his words.


    Before she could say anything, Tristan continued his words.


    "You know what, dear..." Tristan said while playing with her smooth, ink-black hair. "Our son also said he wanted to buy us some time so we could give him a little sister..."


    Tristan buried his head on her shoulder and started to kiss her smooth neck.


    Bella was rendered speechless. She pushed him lightly away from her neck.


    When Bella saw his protest through his gaze, she pinched his dainty nose. "Did you force Dax to sleep with us?"


    Tristan slightly frowned as he said, "Why would I need to do that? Of course not. Our little son was so excited to sleep with us..."


    Bella, "..."


    "My dearest Mr. Sinclair, don¡¯t try to trick me. I know by making Dax sleep here, I couldn¡¯t refuse you to sleep here too," Bella said, trying to hold back her laughter when she saw Tristan¡¯s face suddenly stiffen.


    ¡¯Lord! Can she read my mind now? How did she know!?¡¯ Tristan could only vent his sarcasm in his mind as Bella caught him. He did make a deal with Dax to help him sleep in bed.


    Tristan opened his mouth, but no words came out. He could only smile at her.


    "Silence means YES, Mr. Sinclair..." Bella said.


    Tristan, "..."


    "Alright, stop talking and moving, or you¡¯ll awaken my little brother down there," Tristan said, trying to divert the conversation. He pulled her closer, resting her chin on her head. "Let¡¯s sleep a few more minutes, huh?"


    Bella didn¡¯t say a word; she could only smile while following him to sleep. And didn¡¯t dare to move at all.


    Unfortunately, her sleepiness had faded after the light and warm talk with Tristan. Now, her mind couldn¡¯t stop thinking, especially about her mother.


    "Your mother remained in her marriage because your father threatened her. I don¡¯t know what sort of threats and blackmail he made that caused your mother to stay by his side for so long..." Her Aunt Emma¡¯s words continued to fill her mind, causing her head to hurt.


    Bella really wanted to call her mother right now, but she was also afraid of calling at the wrong time when her father was around.


    It looked like Bella needed to find the right time to call her mother, and for that, she required Stefan to monitor her father and her good-for-nothing brother, Henry. Or should she fly there and meet her mother in person?


    Sighing deeply, Bella tried to rest her mind again, putting aside those matters while pressing her body into Tristan and closing her eyes.


    But not long after, Bella heard Tristan¡¯s voice.


    "I could see something troubling your mind. Did something concerning happen last night? "


    She sighed deeply before responding to him, "Am I looking that obvious? Hmm, yeah. Something is bothering me. I feel like I need to talk to my mother. You already know how terribly my father threatened my mother, right?"


    "Hmm, yeah. I remember..." Tristan loosened his arms and tilted his head to see her face. "You want to tell her the truth about your father?"

 Chapter 280: Tristan Won’t Allow

    "Hmm, I know..." Tristan loosened his arms and tilted his head to see her face. "You want to tell her about your father?"


    Bella shook her head slowly.


    "Not because of that, but there¡¯s something I¡¯m curious about..." After thinking for a few more seconds, she finally told Tristan what her aunt had said last night.


    Bella was in a dilemma because her impromptu plan was to visit East City. She knew Tristan would be worried about the idea, especially after what happened a few days ago when Bradley Caville and her uncle sent gangsters to attack her.


    "I¡¯m sorry to hear that, dear. Would you like to fly there and meet your mother in person?" Tristan asks, concerned.


    Bella was stunned to hear Tristan¡¯s words. How could he know what she was thinking?


    "How do you know I want to fly there?" She slightly raises her eyebrows while smiling.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to answer her, instead gently rubbing her alluring cherry lips. However, when he felt the urge to kiss them, he withdrew his finger and sighed deeply.


    "It¡¯s all over your face, darling. I could clearly see it..." He lifted his lips teasingly.


    Sighing deeply, Bella nodded, confirming his guess. She preferred to talk to her mother in person rather than over the phone.


    But it¡¯s likely impossible for her to fly there. She has so much to do and knows that Tristan won¡¯t let her go.


    "I do want to fly there, but I believe you will not allow me¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t continue her words as Tristan¡¯s index finger landed on her lips, as a sweet gesture to ask her to stop talking.


    "My wife, I will arrange the plane; you just need to tell me when you want to fly there."


    "Seriously, you¡¯re letting me fly there?" Bella was surprised by his generous reply. She had thought he would stop her from flying to East City.


    "Of course, darling. It¡¯s no big deal. Besides, I will fly there to accompany you, and we can return the same day. And I promise I won¡¯t interfere in your ordeal with your family unless you ask. I¡¯m just there to cheer you up."


    Bella gasped even more. "Hu-Hubby, you want to accompany me there and promise not to interfere in any way?"


    "Of course. It¡¯s your personal issue but also it was my duty to accompany my wife. To lift her up when she¡¯s down, to cheer her up when she¡¯s sad. And I also need to fly there to meet my mother-in-law."


    Tristan realizes now that this is what he should¡¯ve done in the past.


    In the past, he hadn¡¯t put much effort into his marriage with Bella because he married her just because of his Grandpa¡¯s arrangement.


    Tristan only remembers meeting his mother-in-law twice. During those meetings, he was unsure if he had spoken to her. Now that he has reunited with Bella, everything is different from the past, and he needs to get to know her family, especially her mother. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella couldn¡¯t say anything. She was pleased to hear Tristan¡¯s sincerity now in saying he needed to see her mother. She could only hug him tightly, feeling blissful.


    They spent the entire morning cuddling and discussing Bella¡¯s plan to fly to East City.


    However, Bella soon remembered Tristan¡¯s meeting with his parents. She wondered if it hadn¡¯t gone well because, since yesterday, he seemed to be avoiding talking about it.


    Even though she was worried about the answer, Bella dared to ask to satisfy her curiosity. Without lifting her head, she asked, "Hubby, how was your meeting with your parents yesterday?"


    There was silence for a moment before Tristan responded.


    "Everything was normal, except my mother fainted when she found out I never actually divorced you. That we are still husband and wife all this time," he casually said.


    Bella was shocked to hear that. She immediately pulled away from Tristan to see his face more clearly.


    Seeing his calm expression as if his mother¡¯s fainting was nothing to worry about, Bella became confused.


    Countless questions danced in her mind about her mother-in-law, Jessica Sinclair. Her odd mother-in-law hated her even though she always tried to act normal around her and avoid offending her.


    At first, she didn¡¯t want to ask further, but her curiosity won. After taking a deep breath, Bella finally asked.


    "Did your mother hate me so much that she fainted when she found out we were together again?"


    Bella tried to ask in a casual tone. Still, the wry smile slowly appearing at the corner of her lips betrayed her, making Tristan¡¯s relaxed expression turn worried.


    Tristan could see the worry and sadness flash through her eyes. He immediately said, "Darling, certainly not," while stroking her cheek to make her feel better. "My mother was just surprised to hear we were still together," he continued.


    Bella didn¡¯t know how to react to his answer. She could only return his smile, even though her smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes.


    Somehow, Bella couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that Jessica must be shocked and angry to know she had returned to Tristan.


    Before Bella accepted Tristan back, she had already thought about the oddity of Jessica Sinclair. That woman would hate her even though she had given birth to the Sinclair family¡¯s successor.


    Until now, she had been confused about why Jessica hated her so much, even though all of Jessica¡¯s secrets were still safe with her. She had already told that woman clearly about it. She promised never to tell anyone, but that woman never believed her.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Should I expose her dark past and send her to her grave in anger? If that¡¯s what she wants... I don¡¯t mind sharing it with the world.¡¯


    ...


    "Wife, actually..." Tristan¡¯s voice sounded heavy and hesitant, bringing Bella¡¯s attention back to him. When their eyes met, he continued. "My parents want to see you..."


    Bella¡¯s eyes flashed with shock. She looked at Tristan silently, unsure how to answer or react to his words.

 Chapter 281: She Refuses!

    Bella¡¯s eyes flashed with shock. She looked at Tristan silently, unsure how to answer or react to his words.


    Tristan already guessed Bella must be shocked. Just now, he only wanted to test her because she had always tried to hide her feelings about his parents, and that¡¯s why he didn¡¯t say only his father wanted to meet her.


    "...I mean, when my father asked to meet you, I immediately said that you would definitely refuse to meet him. But my father didn¡¯t give up easily. He begged me repeatedly. So, would you spare him your time if he were the only one to meet you?" Tristan hurriedly explained after he saw her seem shaken by his words.


    "Your father begged you to meet me?" Bella was taken aback. It was hard for her to believe that her arrogant father-in-law wanted to meet her so badly and apologize directly to her.


    When she was still under the same roof as Tristan¡¯s wife, Bella rarely saw her father-in-law, William Sinclair. Still, she always heard a lot of gossip about him from Noora. She remembered Noora told her that William Sinclair always spoiled his wife, Jessica.


    Whatever and whenever Jessica asked for something, William would fulfill it. Bella believed William hated and treated her rudely because Jessica had asked him to.


    Sometimes, when she sees William as Jessica¡¯s obedient dog, she feels sorry for him. If only William knew what his wife had done, he might have thrown the manipulative woman in the trash bin.


    Silently, Bella sighed deeply, remembering those past hard times.


    ...


    Tristan felt terrible when he saw Bella not saying anything, and her eyes looked sad. From her expression, he guessed she was in a dilemma about answering his question.


    "Wife, I wouldn¡¯t force you to meet my father. You can think about it first and decide¡ª"


    "NO! I won¡¯t meet him." Bella firmly refused William Sinclair¡¯s request. Not because she didn¡¯t want to hear his apology but because it would be troublesome if Jessica knew she met William without her.


    Jessica Sinclair would become suspicious of her again and do something evil behind her back, such as conspiring with other women to steal her husband. Hell, she can¡¯t imagine that!


    Tristan was no longer surprised to hear Bella¡¯s reply. He smiled at her, indirectly praising her for making a good decision. He also didn¡¯t want his wife to meet his father, afraid she would be hurt again.


    Bella¡¯s smile barely appeared on the corner of her lips before she apologized to him for the refusal, "I¡¯m really sorry, hubby. I just can¡¯t meet him now. I¡¯m not ready yet..."


    "Do not say those words, dear. That¡¯s your choice, and I respect every decision you make. Don¡¯t feel bad about it."


    "Thanks..." Her smile was no longer as stiff as before, and she could now feel relieved.


    ...


    After a slow, intimate morning, they all rushed to Isaac¡¯s house for breakfast with Aunty Emma.


    They arrived just in time when breakfast was ready.


    As usual, Dax was busy eating while all the adults chatted.


    Isaac and Lewis Sinclair, who happened to join them, discussed their fishing plans on the lake at noon.


    Bella talked with Aunty Emma. While Tristan, who sat beside her, enjoyed his breakfast in silence. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Aunty, when will you return to the East?" Bella was curious to know. If she planned to meet her mother without her father¡¯s and brother¡¯s knowledge, she would need Aunt Emma¡¯s help to lure her mother out of home.


    "Well... at first, I only planned to stay here for a night, but after I found out about you and my grandson Daxton, I decided to stay longer. Why do you ask?"


    Emma glanced at Bella while putting her cutlery in its place. She was already packed and had finished her breakfast.


    Bella didn¡¯t explain her plan to fly to the East immediately because Dax and Lewis Sinclair were there. She only asked Emma to walk outside after their breakfast.


    Soon, breakfast finished, and everyone started to continue their day.


    Tristan had to go to his office without Bella because she still needed to talk to her Aunt and would visit the office afterward.


    Walking in the garden, they enjoyed the nice weather behind the house, using it as an excuse to digest their breakfast.


    They started talking about Emma and her family¡¯s life in East City. Emma told Bella that after her husband died long ago, she managed to raise her only son, Liam, who is now in his first year at a famous university in East City.


    Bella was happy when she heard Aunty Emma talking about her son. Still, she felt sad because she had forgotten the last time she saw Aunty Emma¡¯s son.


    Many things have happened in the past. Bella hasn¡¯t had a chance to meet her other cousin. She has spent most of her time in the capital and abroad.


    She remembers that after she married Tristan, she only returned to the East a few times.


    Soon,


    They were sitting on the patio near the lake.


    Bella started talking about her plans to fly to East City on Sunday, surprising Emma to hear it, and at the same time, she also worried about Bella¡¯s safety.


    "Bella... what do you want to do by flying back there!?" Emma grabbed Bella¡¯s hand, warning her with worry, "You want to confront your father and uncles? No¡­ no¡­ please don¡¯t do that now. They will hurt you."


    "Auntie, it is fine¡ª"


    Emma tightened her grip before she continued to convince Bella, "No, Bella. I can¡¯t let you go there alone. I will accompany you to fly there! You can¡¯t refuse me..."


    Bella felt touched when her Aunt worried so much about her safety.


    She tapped her hand gently while smiling at her before responding, "Auntie, I¡¯m not visiting East City alone; Tristan will fly there, too. You don¡¯t have to worry that my father and uncle will do something bad to me."


    Bella could understand her Aunt¡¯s worry because last night, she had already told her Aunt that her uncle had sent gangsters to arrest her.


    "Thank God. It¡¯s fine if Tristan is with you," Emma was relieved to hear that. "...So you want to fly there to confront them for what they did to you!?"

 Chapter 282: Can’t Endure This Torture Anymore!

    "So you want to fly there to confront them for what they did to you!?"


    Bella shook her head. "No. But I plan to meet my mother. I want to tell her about Tristan, me, and Dax."


    Emma couldn¡¯t hide her happiness when she heard that. "Oh, Bella... I¡¯m so happy you finally decided to meet your mother¡ª" Her eyes slowly turned red.


    With a trembling voice, Emma continued, "Did you know? Since last night, I wanted to call Natalie to tell her about you and Dax. But I could only keep my idea in my mind since I promised you not to tell anyone." She squeezed Bella¡¯s hand gently.


    Bella smiled at hearing that.


    "Ha ha ha..." Suddenly, Emma¡¯s laughter echoed. "Now I¡¯m delighted you made the right decision, my dear Bella..."


    Since joining the Sinclair family, Emma has been aware of Bella¡¯s strained relationship with her family. Things turned for the worse when she divorced Tristan without consulting them. However, it¡¯s a positive sign that she has decided to meet her mother. She feels so happy for her.


    "But, Aunty, I need your help."


    Emma was taken aback. This was the first time Bella had asked for help from her, and she was willing to do anything for her only niece.


    "Bella, why do you suddenly need Auntie¡¯s help?" Emma asked. A thin line on her forehead couldn¡¯t hide her confusion. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Auntie, I¡¯m planning to fly to East City on Sunday. I don¡¯t want my father or brother, Henry, to know about my plans to meet my mother. If you could take my mother to a safe place for me to meet her, that would be a huge help for me..."


    Instantly, Emma nods. She agrees with Bella¡¯s request.


    "Sure... Sure... I can do that for you." Emma paused to think about the plan. She would have to fly back to East City tomorrow to contact Natalie and find a safe location for Bella to meet her mother.


    After a few seconds, Emma continued, "I¡¯ll fly back tomorrow afternoon to meet your mother. Are there any special requirements you have?"


    "No special requirements. But please, make sure no one knows about this arrangement, including my mother¡¯s driver. Thank you, Auntie, for your help..."


    "Of course, I know that. If your mother¡¯s driver knew about your meeting, your father would know too because he is your father¡¯s man," Emma answered bitterly.


    "Thank you..."


    Bella felt relieved that her meeting with her mother would be safe. She was concerned about her mother¡¯s safety. Because if her father knew they were meeting without him, he might torture her mother again.


    It was still vivid in Bella¡¯s mind that her father used to discipline them with his hand in the past. His abusive behavior was directed not only toward his children but also toward his wife. Such an evil man!


    ****


    While Bella and Emma were discussing their plans, something terrible happened simultaneously in East City.


    In a vast bedroom, Natalie Wright felt mentally and physically exhausted. She could no longer endure the suffering she had kept hidden in her heart.


    What happened last night made her even more convinced that now was the right time to part with the sadistic man she once loved, Lucas Donovan. She was going to file for divorce¡ªsomething she had avoided for so many years.


    She no longer cared about Lucas¡¯ warnings. Whatever that damn man wanted to do, she would let him!


    Right now, Natalie just needed to move out of this hell. Because if she stayed any longer, she might die enduring this torture.


    She deserved to be happy, even if the price was too high: cutting ties with her family¡ªno, with her evil husband and her unfilial son, Henry Donovan.


    As for her daughter, Bella? Natalie didn¡¯t even know where Bella was now. Her only daughter seemed to be hiding from her.


    She had tried calling Bella several times, but her calls never went through.


    How could she survive in this house when even her only source of hope had abandoned her and blocked her number, too?


    Heartbroken, Natalie felt that everything she held dear no longer had meaning. She had better leave them all behind.


    Sighing deeply, Natalie looked at her walk-in closet sadly. She would leave everything here. She didn¡¯t need all this stuff.


    She randomly grabbed a few things from her closet and a few important documents, then tucked them all into her suitcase.


    Before long,


    Natalie finally finished packing the few things she needed.


    For the last time, she looked at the bedroom she had spent most of her life in, wiping the remaining tears from her cheeks as she walked toward the door, dragging her medium suitcase.


    However, Natalie¡¯s steps stopped when she caught her reflection in the mirror.


    It felt like something had rubbed lemon into her wounded heart when she saw her terrible self; her eyes still looked red and swollen from crying all night. The wound on the corner of her lip was still clearly visible because, last night, her evil husband Lucas had slapped her.


    Natalie¡¯s hands clenched into tight fists, remembering what happened last night. Lucas had come home half-drunk, and the shampoo scent made her suspect he had taken a shower elsewhere.


    Suspicious, she asked him about it. Instead of an answer, the evil man started slapping and kicking her as if she were his punching bag.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Lucas had done that. Too often, he came home drunk and started to hit her without any reason.


    Sigh!


    Natalie wiped away the traces of tears that had begun to flow again from the corners of her eyes.


    After feeling better emotionally, she muttered softly, "Bye, Lucas Donovan! Now you can do anything you want. I will never care about you anymore..."


    She smiled at her reflection and walked to the door, leaving the room.


    ...


    "Woman! Are you going somewhere without asking for my permission?"


    Instantly, Natalie¡¯s step halted abruptly when she heard Lucas Donovan¡¯s voice from the corner.


    ¡¯Oh my God! Why is he still here?¡¯ Natalie¡¯s heart jumped a few beats faster.

 Chapter 283: Let Me Go!

    Natalie was shocked beyond words to hear that. She thought this man had already left the house fifteen minutes ago.


    Why did he suddenly return?


    Did he forget something?


    Or,


    Did I forget something?


    Oh my God¡­.


    Natalie didn¡¯t dare to turn around to see him.


    She stood in her place, praying this was just her imagination and nothing terrible or hurting would come out of this encounter. But her wishes shuttered when Lucas¡¯s voice echoed again, tearing the silence. Hell, he is here!


    "I said, where are you going with such a huge suitcase?" Lucas Donovan snapped, his voice no longer as polite as before.


    He was too shocked to see his wife drag the suitcase out of anger for the first time since they married.


    ¡¯Is he furious about what happened last night?¡¯ Lucas wondered. ¡¯This stupid, selfish woman, how dare she get angry when I was about to apologize to her?¡¯


    After a five-minute drive, he had asked the driver to return home hurriedly, realizing he had beaten her last night because he was venting his frustration after what happened with their company.


    But what he saw now was enough to make his anger flare again. He didn¡¯t want to scold or even hit her, but this woman never failed to make him angry.


    Natalie gritted her teeth while tightening her grip on her suitcase. Trying to restrain herself from appearing weak in front of Lucas, she turned to him, attempting to be brave.


    Nevertheless, when she saw his sharp gaze, her heart trembled. Somehow, she felt that if his gaze could kill someone, she might be dead by now. How evil!


    "Natalie, why are you staring at me like that? Can you answer me? Where are you going with your suitcase?" Lucas lowered his tone to suppress his anger. He didn¡¯t want to scare her even more.


    While Lucas was trying to calm his anger, Natalie was too busy forming the words she wanted to say to him, making her unable to hear what he was asking.


    Lucas¡¯ patience ran thin when he saw his wife ignore him. He rubbed his thick eyebrow, smiling faintly, "How dare you challenge my patience, Natalie Wright!!"


    Natalie flinched as she saw him walking slowly toward her. She sighed deeply and forced herself to express what was on her mind.


    "This is no longer working. Not for me. Let¡¯s get a divorce, Lucas Donovan. That¡¯s the only reasonable for our horrible marriage. To end it." she said calmly, maintaining a straight expression.


    But inside, Natalie felt like thunder was rumbling, scaring her, and messing with her heartbeat and thoughts.


    ¡¯Be strong, Natalie. Please be strong! Don¡¯t cry in front of this DAMN man anymore. He doesn¡¯t deserve your tears...¡¯ She reminded herself while clenching her fists.


    "WHAT DO YOU WANT TO SAY, NATALIE WRIGHT? YOU WANT US DIVORCE? US? DIVORCE?!" Lucas Donovan¡¯s voice echoed, breaking the silence on the second floor. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Natalie was even more scared to hear him raise his voice. Before she could answer him, Lucas¡¯s booming laugh echoed, confusing her.


    "Bwa ha ha ha ha¡­" he laughed, speeding up his steps as he headed toward Natalie.


    "What a joke! No divorce unless I say so!! None! Are you stupid? Or are you tired of living? Is that why you¡¯re asking for a divorce?


    You want to die?" he continued.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time he heard her say those words. He already knew she must be bluffing.


    Natalie¡¯s eyes remained locked on him. She maintained her calmness even though she felt her hands start to sweat, fearing that this man would hit her again.


    Lucas stopped a step away from her. He didn¡¯t rush to speak but placed his hand on her chin and brought her face closer to his. He was so close that she blinked several times when his breath tickled her face.


    When Natalie was about to brush his hand away, he spoke, "What a heartless woman you are, Natalie Wright! How dare you ask for a divorce when my company and my family are in trouble?"


    "I don¡¯t care! Please, let me go, Lucas Donovan. Let me go!!" Natalie bravely answered him. "I no longer have the energy to stand beside you. To care and love you when you never care and love me back!! I give you a gift here!


    Now, you¡¯re free to marry your younger woman out there. I don¡¯t care¡ª"


    His hand held her chin tightly, his eyes cold. With a slight smirk, he spoke mockingly, his words meant to irritate her further, "Shut your dirty, flirty mouth, or you will taste my hand again!"


    Lucas¡¯s gigantic hand covered Natalie¡¯s face, almost like squeezing her face. Then he pushed her face away, causing Natalie to nearly fall to the floor. She grabbed her suitcase to keep herself from falling.


    "You can hit me, hurt me as much as you want, Lucas Donovan! But... My decision is final. I want a divorce," she said, glaring at him without fear. "Please let me go. LET ME GO!"


    Natalie smiled confidently when she saw him frown, taken aback by her courage and audacity. She didn¡¯t even believe it herself, but she liked it! This was her first time being so brave.


    And as a result, this is her first time seeing her mean and abusive husband¡¯s confused and fearful expression, even if only for a second.


    She continued, "Lucas, I will not waste my life enduring misery. And you don¡¯t have to pretend to hide your women from me. You can marry your woman after you divorce me. This is what you want, too, right?"


    Lucas felt mixed emotions now. He was surprised by her boldness and amused at the same time.


    ¡¯She must be bluffing, right? This woman can¡¯t leave this place or leave me¡­¡¯ Lucas wondered, but once again, he frowned, looking at how fierce her gaze was now.


    This was the first time he saw Natalie glare at him like this. He felt d¨¦j¨¤ vu.


    ¡¯That glare in her eyes¡­.Why did her gaze resemble our good-for-nothing daughter, Bella?¡¯


    Lucas shook his head to put aside what he thought.


    "You think you can leave me, huh? Do you have money? A place to stay? You have none of those!!" Lucas slowly shouts while narrowing his eyes, staring at her, shaking.


    He knew it; she must be bluffing. How stupid she was!


    Natalie didn¡¯t say any words. But her expression remained the same.


    He chuckled. "Fine, you can leave this house, Natalie. But you can¡¯t bring anything from this place. You have to leave everything behind... Including your suitcase and money...because everything is mine!! MINE!


    NOT YOURS! You have nothing here!! Nothing!"


    Natalie was utterly speechless to hear that.


    "You are fucking nothing without me, Natalie Wright. NOTHING!! If you hadn¡¯t married me, you would have been just a FUCKING POOR WOMAN!!! You would be struggling to even make a penny out there..."


    Natalie clenched her hand, trying to hold back her tears. She could feel all her blood rushing to her face, turning it red as if her blood vessels were about to burst.


    But again, she suppressed her anger and swallowed it back down.

 Chapter 284: You Can’t Escape From Me!

    Seeing her eyes, which seemed to challenge him, was enough to make Lucas even more annoyed with this useless woman.


    Gritting his teeth silently, he said, "I will not stop you, Natalie Wright. You can leave now if you want!"


    Lucas knew this stupid Natalie would not dare leave the house without anything. She said those words¡ªto leave the house¡ªonly to make him angry because they fought last night.


    A smirk slowly appears on his lips. He didn¡¯t bother to see her pitiful expression anymore.


    He strode towards the glass window, his back to her, trying to enjoy the scenery outside while holding back a laugh at her foolishness.


    ¡¯Oh, Natalie Wright¡­ a woman like you would never leave me. I know you enjoy being a madam and are too timid to return to being a poor woman again.¡¯ Lucas laughed inwardly, feeling satisfied that he had taught her a lesson.


    Later,


    After a few minutes, Lucas stood near the window but didn¡¯t hear anything from her, which confused him.


    Slowly, a faint line appeared on Lucas¡¯ forehead.


    ¡¯This is new! Why is she keeping silent?¡¯ Lucas muttered under his breath.


    Usually, Natalie would come to ask for forgiveness after they fought or he scolded her. But now? Why was she silent? Was she really mad this time?


    "Alright, stop your tantrum, Natalie. Come here and beg for my forgiveness. I will forget everything you said about the divorce."


    Lucas let out a deep sigh, exhausted from dealing with her sulking. Hearing no movement from behind, he continued, "If you demand an apology from me, fine!"


    Silence!


    He rubbed his eyebrow, saying, "I apologize for what I did last night. I didn¡¯t intend to harm you, Natalie, but you made me angry when I wasn¡¯t fully sober... Sorry, I will not do that again in the future!"


    Still, there was no answer from her, causing Lucas to regret apologizing to this ignorant woman.


    Annoyed, he turned to look at her. However, he was shocked to see no one there, only a red suitcase. Where did she go? Did she run to the bedroom?


    "You¡¯re being brave, Natalie. Did you leave your things for me to take to our room?" Lucas walked towards the suitcase, smiling, amused by her naivety.


    Asking for a divorce? How stupid she is.


    He would never divorce her¡ªnever! Nathalie was a stupid woman that he could handle easily. Besides, it would have been a disaster if his father had known they were divorced.


    A cold smile slowly appeared on his lips as he walked over to Natalie¡¯s suitcase. Before he could take the suitcase, his hand stopped when he saw several credit cards and bank cards on top of it.


    "Why did she leave these cards here?"


    Lucas instantly felt his throat dry when he saw gold accessories and their wedding ring. He also noticed piles of money there.


    "What the hell! She left? Really!? No!! Impossible. The damn woman will not dare..." He said, rushing to the bedroom to check.


    He still thought Natalie had run to their bedroom or bathroom to cry, as she usually did.


    However, his face turned red when he saw the empty bedroom and bathroom. He could feel all the blood rushing to his face, seething with anger. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas took out his cell phone and called the house guard at the gate.


    "Did you see my wife?" he asked calmly, but his gaze now radiated anger. He felt utterly frustrated with his stupid wife. How dare she run away? Did she really think she could escape from him?


    The guard was surprised to hear his master¡¯s question.


    "Ye-Yes, sir, I saw her. But just now, Madam rode a cab¡ª"


    "What!! She rode a cab?" Lucas snapped as he left his room and ran to the first floor.


    "Yes, sir. Earlier, when I asked her if she needed me to call her driver and prepare her car, Madam didn¡¯t say a word to me."


    "I want you to search that cab and stop that cab for me! NOW!" Lucas couldn¡¯t hold his calm anymore. His voice raised, shocking the guard.


    The guard panicked, hearing his master angry. Stuttering, he replied, "I¡¯m sorry, sir, but the cab is already speeding, and I can¡¯t see it anymore¡­"


    "Did you remember the car¡¯s plate number?"


    "I¡¯m sorry, sir... But¡­but¡­. I didn¡¯t remember the cab¡¯s plate number..."


    The guard started to get confused. Why was their Madam rushing out of the house and getting a cab? Since he started working there, this was the first time he had seen Madam ride a cab. She usually left the house using the car, and a chauffeur would drive her.


    ¡¯Did they fight? Again?¡¯ The guard was even more worried. Their master would vent his frustration on them.


    Lucas¡¯s steps stopped right before he left the main door. He felt furious while cursing his damn stupid wife inwardly.


    After a few more seconds, Lucas realized she didn¡¯t leave her phone behind.


    "Stupid woman!! You left without anything but still brought your phone?" Lucas mumbled.


    A sinister smile appeared on the corner of his lips as he tried to find her phone number. However, before he could dial her number, two text messages appeared.


    [Natalie] Lucas, please sign and submit the divorce papers to the court. I want nothing from you but a divorce! And after that, I want nothing to do with you. You can go to hell for all I care.


    [Natalie] By the way, as for the clothes I wear, don¡¯t worry; you will have them back. I will send them to you by courier today.


    "Fuck you, woman! Fuck you! You think you¡¯re so smart, huh?! Alright! Alright! You return all you wear, but how about the phone?


    Hah! You can¡¯t keep it! That¡¯s my phone, you know. I bought it with my money!"


    Lucas faintly smiled, but his smile faded when another text came in.


    [Natalie] Ah, I forgot to inform you. You can¡¯t ask back for the phone I use now, Lucas. Maybe you forgot, but this phone is not yours. It is Emma¡¯s birthday present for me.


    Lucas, "..."


    Instantly, he felt like smashing his phone on the floor!

 Chapter 285: We Failed!

    At Quantum Capital Building.


    Bella arrived at the office exactly at eleven in the morning. She rushed into the building after asking Geoffrey to return to their residence.


    She didn¡¯t go to her office but headed straight for Leo¡¯s penthouse residence on the top floor. She needed to meet and discuss with Stefan to get his updates on the Donovan Group. She was excited to hear about the company¡¯s recent progress.


    However, when Bella stepped out of the elevator, she saw Sam heading towards the emergency stairs.


    "Sam, can I talk to you for a minute?" she asked, remembering to ask him about Laura Kiels¡¯ progress.


    Sam¡¯s steps halted before he opened the emergency door. A faint smile graced his serious face as he walked towards her.


    "Morning boss, I didn¡¯t see you there. But you came at the right time; I was just about to call you to report."


    Bella frowned slightly before asking him to continue.


    "This is about Robert, Laura Kiels¡¯ manager..." Sam said.


    "Oh, right. I also wanted to ask you about that. Let¡¯s sit inside and talk," Bella said, walking to the living room.


    The living room was empty. Bella knew Leo must be in his office, but she didn¡¯t see Stefan there.


    When Bella saw Sam sitting across from her, she asked, looking toward Stefan¡¯s bedroom, "Is Stefan still jet-lagged? It¡¯s almost lunchtime now, but he hasn¡¯t come out of his bedroom yet."


    Sam shook his head.


    "He had already woken up this morning and had breakfast with us. I also saw him go into his computer room before I went downstairs. It seemed like he was busy and didn¡¯t come out again..."


    "I¡¯m glad to hear he¡¯s no longer having trouble adapting to the time zone here," Bella said with a smile as she turned her gaze to Sam. "Did you guys find any clues at the crime scene that may lead us to the real cause of Robert¡¯s death?" Her expression slowly turned tense.


    Ever since Bella ordered Sam and his team at the Sentinel Network, she had been very curious to know the results of their investigation.


    The sudden death of Laura Kiels¡¯ manager left a mystery in her: Robert¡¯s death was not natural. Someone probably killed him.


    If her suspicions are correct, then she believes it was Laura Kiels who killed Robert because the poor guy was the key witness. And if Robert died, they wouldn¡¯t be able to touch Laura; the woman was clean.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Did someone help you, Laura!?¡¯ Bella wondered. She suspected someone was helping Laura because Laura had become quick-witted in avoiding leaving evidence.


    Sam¡¯s face slowly turned dark upon hearing Bella¡¯s question. He silently took a deep sigh before answering her.


    "Boss, unfortunately, after we carried out an investigation at a few places, starting from the crime scene, Robert¡¯s residence, and Laura Kiels¡¯ empty apartment, we didn¡¯t find anything unusual..."


    Bella felt slightly disappointed hearing Sam¡¯s explanation. So that bitch Laura Kiels would be free from this case?


    Suddenly, she felt like she wanted to punch something, imagining Laura getting away with it.


    "Likewise, all the evidence at the police station points to a pure accident. Robert was drunk when he was driving his vehicle."


    Sam ended his explanation with a deep sigh. For some reason, he felt sour in his heart. His first investigation failed because he couldn¡¯t find anything even though he knew Robert¡¯s death was not natural.


    "Boss, I¡¯m sorry if I disappointed you..."


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately say anything, but there was a thin line on her forehead as she thought. She still doubted that Robert¡¯s death was natural, as the police and Sam said.


    No matter how hard Bella tried to accept the investigation¡¯s results, she felt she couldn¡¯t. Something didn¡¯t add up.


    She could understand the lack of evidence at Robert¡¯s death scene due to its remoteness and lack of CCTV. But what about Robert¡¯s residence? How could they not find the slightest oddity there?


    A few seconds later, Bella¡¯s gaze returned to Sam.


    "What about the CCTV footage around Robert¡¯s house? Did you find anything out of place? I mean... Can you remember anything suspicious?" she asked, refusing to believe that Laura could escape her crime.


    "No¡ª" Sam¡¯s voice trailed off as he remembered something.


    "There is something?" Bella asked excitedly. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s just a coincidence, but a few days before, on the day Robert died, almost every CCTV in the area of his house was out of order. They recorded nothing but blanks, with one CCTV recording something, but the record was missing."


    After taking a deep sigh, Sam continued, "The CCTV was working normally again just a few hours before he was found dead in a car accident. The police told our guy that some of the CCTV was out due to a lightning strike in the power source but told nothing about the missing CCTV recording."


    Sam said in a slightly confused tone because he wasn¡¯t sure if this would help. "Boss, I¡¯m sorry, but my people couldn¡¯t recover the lost CCTV footage. If you could ask Stefan, that would be great."


    Bella¡¯s brows furrowed. Someone had obviously deleted some of the missing CCTV footage, and she was sure of it.


    "Okay, Sam. I will ask Stefan to check the missing CCTV footage," she responded.


    "I hope he can restore it," Sam said. His team doesn¡¯t have as much talent as Stefan¡¯s, so they can¡¯t recover anything from the missing footage.


    "Hmm, I hope so." Bella smiled at Sam to ease his disappointment. She could clearly see how terrible Sam¡¯s expression was now. "Okay, please continue checking Laura Kiels¡¯ case and report to me. I will also contact you later if I find anything from Stefan."


    "Okay, Boss. Thank you..."


    "Wait, Sam!" Leo¡¯s voice came from the front corridor before Sam stood up. "I need to update you on something..." he sat beside Sam.


    "What news?" Sam couldn¡¯t wait to hear it.


    Leo immediately explained that their attorney had just called to inform him about the results of the examination of Laura Kiels as a witness.


    Bella and Sam looked tense as they were curious about the result.

 Chapter 286: No Strong Evidence To Catch Her

    Bella and Sam looked tense as they were curious about the result.


    After Leo saw Bella and Sam in return, he continued, "Well, this is so annoying! There is no evidence to change Laura Kiels¡¯ status from a witness to a suspect. So, after she was questioned for seven hours, the police let her leave the station."


    Bella¡¯s shoulders dropped upon hearing the news. Although she had anticipated it, it still left her feeling upset.


    However, she didn¡¯t say anything. Bella was busy looking for other ways to catch Laura without letting her get away with this case.


    "Damn it! That damn woman is so slippery. How did she get away with it?" Leo cursed, annoyed. He had hoped that Laura¡¯s status would change to that of the main suspect in the slander case, but it did not. She got away quite easily.


    "Maybe she¡¯s just lucky! Hard to beat luck, you know," Sam said, just as annoyed as Leo. "If Robert hadn¡¯t died, then that woman wouldn¡¯t be this calm."


    Leo suddenly turned to Sam as he remembered something.


    "By the way, Sam... How is your investigation going? Any significant progress? Did you find anything?" Leo knew Sam and his team in Sentinel Network had tried to find a clue about Robert¡¯s sudden death.


    "Nothing so far, Man! It¡¯s really frustrating me¡­" Sam took a deep breath before continuing. "Nothing in the crime scene can lead us to something important. Whoever cleans it has done an incredible job."


    "Damn! Laura Kiels is so lucky to have found some professional hitmen backing her evilness..." Leo muttered, shaking his head and looking at Bella. His brows slowly furrowed as he looked at her; she seemed lost in her thoughts.


    Just before Leo wanted to ask her opinion, Bella lifted her head and met Leo¡¯s gaze.


    "Well... Laura Kiels is not lucky, guys..." Bella faintly smiled when she saw Leo and Sam confused hearing her words.


    "It¡¯s just like you said, Leo. I¡¯m sure Laura has some good hands helping her. Someone with powerful connections and experience in the criminal world is helping her carry out her dirty deeds," she continued.


    Instantly, Leo and Sam gasped in surprise at Bella¡¯s sureness. At first, they just thought about it but didn¡¯t really believe it. Still, after hearing how confident Bella was about her analysis, they both started to believe that Laura Kiels had a lot of help from someone with professional criminal backgrounds.


    "Someone backing her up... Are you sure only one person helps her, Boss? Do you have any idea who it is, Boss?" Leo looked at Bella curiously.


    "Man, is it Jessica Sinclair?" Sam chimed in while looking at Leo. However, a second later, he corrected his statement. "Well...it¡¯s impossible for Jessica Sinclair to help her, right?"


    "Tsk... Tsk... Sam, of course, not her. How could Jessica Sinclair help her!? Did you forget Sinclair Group sued Laura Kiels!?" Leo said as he turned his gaze back to Bella. "Boss, who is the person behind Laura?


    I guess you already know..."


    "Ah, you¡¯re right...I forgot about that!" Sam nodded and also waited for Bella to answer.


    Bella smiled bitterly. After thinking for a moment, she realized she needed to do a deeper investigation into Laura Kiels¡¯ circle.


    She might find something that could lead her to the person who helped Laura.


    "I¡¯m sure it¡¯s only one person, guys. But this person has strong experience and powerful henchmen. And no, I have no idea who that person would be. I desperately want to find out about that person." Bella responded.


    When she saw them slightly disappointed, she dismissed them both. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, you both can continue to work. I need to speak with Stefan. I hope he can help us find that person."


    Bella stood up and walked towards Stefan¡¯s computer room.


    ...


    The door opened when Bella was about to knock on the door.


    Stefan was surprised to see Bella standing right before his computer room.


    She looked beautiful as usual in her casual black cropped pants, matching shirt, and khaki outerwear hanging on her shoulders. Her hair was tied in a ponytail. Even though she didn¡¯t apply makeup, only cherry-colored lip gloss, she still looked stunning.


    His smile grew broader, and he greeted her excitedly, "Hi, Sis... What a coincidence. I was just about to come down to see you. What brings you up here?" he asked, scratching his messy hair.


    "I need to discuss a few things with you, Stefan." Bella smiled back at him.


    Stefan said nothing but stepped aside to let her into his computer room. After she entered, he closed the door and joined her in the sitting area.


    "Sister Bella, why does your expression look annoyed? Has something offended you, Sis?" Stefan asked as he sat across from Bella.


    "Yeah, someone is making me stressed right now," Bella sighed deeply, feeling annoyed again.


    "Who annoyed my sister? Just tell me, Sis. I¡¯ll make sure that person suffers." Stefan narrowed his eyes, waiting for an answer from Bella.


    "Laura Kiels! It looks like she will get away with what she did." Bella took a deep breath. "You know, Stefan, I think that woman has some backup that helped her escape easily," she continued.


    "Ah, Laura Bitch Kiels... She is indeed slippery, just like an eel. Hahaha..." Stefan laughed, but his laughter gradually faded when he saw Bella didn¡¯t even look at him, let alone smile at his humor.


    Stefan silently swallowed when he realized Bella was not in a good mood.


    After clearing his throat, Stefan continued, "Sis, I can see you¡¯re not in a good mood because of Laura Kiels. Do you need my help?" He offered, his expression tense as he waited for her reaction.


    After a few more seconds, a faint smile appeared on Stefan¡¯s face when he saw Bella¡¯s expression slowly soften.


    Bella told Stefan about the oddities that Sam found in the CCTV footage around Robert¡¯s house. She asked him if he could get the missing footage.

 Chapter 287: Failed To Help Her!

    Bella told Stefan about the oddities that Sam found in the CCTV footage around Robert¡¯s house. She asked him if he could get the missing tapes.


    Stefan nodded.


    "Certainly, I can find or recover it, as long as the server is still connected to the LAN or emits a radio wave, not physically taken out or too damaged."


    Bella felt her heartbeat quicken, hearing the slight possibility of getting the recording.


    "How long will it take for you to find and check its recording?" Bella asked.


    "Wait here... I¡¯ll check it now." Stefan stood up from his chair and went to his computer desk. He knew Robert¡¯s residence address, so he didn¡¯t have to ask Bella again. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Perfect, Stefan!" Bella said, sitting in her seat, watching Stefan busy behind his computer.


    While waiting for Stefan to finish, Bella took her cell phone from her bag and read trending news online. She opened the news with a video.


    Bella saw Laura Kiels leaving the police station and being interviewed by many reporters. Laura wiped her tears with her hand, appearing sad about the news of her manager¡¯s death.


    "I¡¯ve worked with Robert for five years, and his passing deeply saddens me. I regret his sacrifice to protect me, and I feel a profound sense of loss..." Laura said.


    A man in a black suit¡ªwho looked like Laura¡¯s lawyer¡ªoffered her a handkerchief; Laura accepted the handkerchief and wiped the tears from her cheeks.


    Seeing Laura Kiels¡¯ fake tears was enough for Bella almost to vomit blood.


    How shameless!


    "What fake tears!" Bella whispered. She would never believe this woman.


    Bella knew Laura Kiels was delusional¡ªshe could do anything to achieve her goals.


    She still clearly remembered that this delusional woman even tried to fake her pregnancy, making evil plans with Jessica Sinclair to steal her husband.


    ¡¯Laura Kiels, I won¡¯t let you go. I will do whatever I can to send you to prison and let you rot there!¡¯


    Bella didn¡¯t want to sour her mood, so she immediately stopped the interview video. However, she didn¡¯t close the article immediately; instead, she read the comments. She wanted to know public opinion about the case.


    She thought A-Netz would learn after Stellar Entertainment filed a lawsuit against A-Netz, which slandered the company, but she was wrong. Many of A-Netz out there blamed them even more.


    Reading how they blamed Stellar Entertainment for Robert¡¯s death flared up anger inside her.


    How could they say Robert was drunk driving because he was stressed about the lawsuit that Stellar Entertainment filed against him?


    "Darn it! These people! They seem not to learn anything from the previous case, huh!" She mutters softly, venting her anger.


    Taking a deep sigh, Bella closed the article and threw her cell phone in her bag.


    The more she saw the news on the internet, the more her head hurt. She put aside A-Netz¡¯s claims about Robert¡¯s death and, leaning on the couch, tried to rest her mind while waiting for Stefan.


    She hoped Stefan would find something to help them turn the tables and find concrete evidence to convict Laura Kiels.


    Before long...


    Bella finally saw Stefan standing from his seat. The tension in her heart grew thicker when she saw Stefan¡¯s unreadable expression.


    "Stefan, how is it? Did you retrieve the missing CCTV footage?" Her tense tone did not hide her excitement.


    Stefan didn¡¯t rush to answer her; instead, he sat in his place while looking at her with concern, which caused Bella to feel even more tense.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but comment, "Stefan, do you intend to give me a disease called ¡¯High Blood Pressure?¡¯" She fixed her cold gaze on him before continuing, "Stop stressing me out!"


    "Hahaha, of course not, my dear pretty sister... your husband will kill me if I do that." Stefan couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    "Then speak! Please, bro¡­" Her cold expression remained strong, but now she added some courtesy, causing Stefan to feel terrible for making that joke. So, he sits straight again and puts his focus on her.


    After a while, there was no playful smile on his face when he said, "I¡¯m sorry, sis. I can¡¯t connect to the server. I don¡¯t think there is a server where this particular CCTV stored its records anymore. Someone must have taken out or destroyed the server..."


    Bella was surprised to hear that.


    If an expert hacker like Stefan couldn¡¯t find the needed evidence, there was no hope for her to imprison Laura Kiels. This is sad!


    ¡¯What the hell! Is this the end!? That damn woman is really free from this case?¡¯ Her hands gripped tightly, feeling mad.


    At that moment, Bella didn¡¯t know how to react. It felt like a dark fog had enveloped her mind, making it difficult for her to think. She was at a loss for words and could only stare back at Stefan with an empty gaze.


    Stefan felt scared when he saw Bella looking strange, staring at him without saying anything. Several seconds passed, and she still hadn¡¯t said a word. He might have thought she was turning into a mannequin if her eyelashes hadn¡¯t moved.


    After a few more seconds passed and she was still silent, he couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sister, Bella... Are you alright? Why are you staring at me like that? Please, sis, don¡¯t make me scared..."


    Bella flinched at Stefan¡¯s worried tone.


    Hurriedly, she cleared her throat before saying, "I¡¯m fine, Stefan. I¡¯m just a little disappointed that we couldn¡¯t send that woman to prison."


    "Yeah, I know... That¡¯s why I also feel mad now." Stefan scratched his head, still annoyed. It was difficult for him to tell her about this result because it was embarrassing for him not to be able to help her imprison Laura Kiels.


    For a few moments, silence filled the room. They were both lost in their thoughts.


    However, Bella broke the silence first.


    "We can¡¯t do anything more about Laura Kiels, but we also can¡¯t dwell in disappointment. So, let¡¯s forget this matter..." she said softly.

 Chapter 288: Your Mother is Missing

    "We can¡¯t do anything more about Laura Kiels, but we also can¡¯t dwell in disappointment. So, let¡¯s forget this matter..." she said softly.


    "Agreed, sis!" Stefan nodded. "Is there anything else you would like to order me?"


    "Yes," Bella¡¯s gaze slowly turned sharp again. "Please teach a lesson to all A-Netz, who are still slandering Stellar Entertainment. You can do whatever you want with them."


    "Got it! I will teach them all!"


    Bella chuckled at how excited Stefan was now. She could see how sharp Stefan¡¯s gaze was, as if he was ready to vent his frustration on A-Netz.


    ...


    After setting aside Laura Kiels¡¯ case, Bella and Stefan continued discussing Donovan Group matters.


    Stefan reported to her about the company¡¯s stock price, which continued to fall further.


    The panic selling has now affected all the shareholders, public investors, and major shareholders such as the Donovan siblings. Jacob and his brothers are starting to sell a portion of their shares.


    However, Stefan noted that no one wanted to take a risk and buy their shares. It seems many people are still waiting to see the Donovan Group¡¯s situation.


    Hearing all this was enough to make Bella smile broadly and happily. This is what she needed to hear: her uncles and father live in fear and suffering.


    "Sis, should we take action now? The share price of Donovan Group has already fallen forty percent from the initial price," Stefan asked.


    "No, of course not. Continue with your next plan to scare the investors who own most of the shares of the Donovan Group. I want them to feel the pressure and let them sell their shares below the market price." Bella continued, giving a clear explanation of what Stefan should do.


    "Understood, sis. I will follow your plan and instructions."


    "Okay, keep monitoring the Donovan Group. I hope we can take over the company next week." Bella clapped her hands, feeling happy. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide how happy she was now when she imagined firing her scheming uncle, Jacob Donovan, from his CEO position.


    "Sister Bella, no worries! I promise you that everything you¡¯ve planned for Donovan Group will prevail," Stefan confidently said.


    He would not disappoint his sister, Bella, again. This will not be another Laura Kiels fail case.


    "I¡¯ll count on you for that, Stefan," Bella smiled as she gave him a thumbs-up. She stood and said, "Alright, I will go downstairs now."


    Bella was about to leave when Stefan stopped her.


    "Uh, Sister, one more thing. It¡¯s about your mother. I think you must know something about your mother." Stefan¡¯s hurried and worried tone caused Bella to stop abruptly.


    "What about my mother? What happened to her?"


    Stefan didn¡¯t tell her immediately but asked for her forgiveness for asking her to sit back again. He did it out of fear Bella would collapse when she heard what he had to say.


    After seeing Bella sitting securely on the couch, he said, "I found out that your mother has been out of the grid since this morning. Every surveillance device I have secretly attached to and around her house has shown she¡¯s undetected."


    "What!? Are you saying my mom is missing? She¡¯s missing from your surveillance?" Bella was shocked to hear that. "How could my mom be missing!? Can you guess what might¡¯ve happened?" She had just intended to call her mother today, and hearing Stefan¡¯s words bewildered her.


    Stefan immediately informed her about what he had discovered since he had been monitoring Lucas Donovan¡¯s cell phone throughout the morning; he knew Lucas had been busy sending texts and calling to ask for help locating his wife, Natalie Wright.


    Bella was starting to get confused.


    If her mother was missing, how could an adult woman be missing when she was at home? Did Stefan mean she ran away from home?


    But Bella doubted it because she knew her mother wouldn¡¯t dare leave her father.


    "Wait... Wait... Stefan, so you¡¯re just saying that mother isn¡¯t missing but ran away from home?" she raised her eyebrow, waiting for Stefan to respond.


    "Did my explanation imply that? Oops, sorry, sis... yeah, I mean, your mother ran away from her house. That¡¯s what I read from your father¡¯s cell phone. Sorry, I¡¯m not a good talker." Stefan explained with concern.


    Stefan knew how terribly Bella¡¯s father threatened her mother, and he could guess something terrible had happened, causing her mother to run away from home.


    Instantly, Bella felt her heart stop beating when she realized something: her father had hurt her mother. She knew her mother was patient with her father¡¯s rudeness and would not run away easily.


    ¡¯Mom, why are you running away? Did Father really hurt you, and you can¡¯t hold it anymore?¡¯


    Countless questions danced in Bella¡¯s mind, making her hands tremble slightly as she tried to hold back her worry.


    "And several hours have passed. It seems your father hasn¡¯t managed to find your mother..." Stefan continued after seeing Bella pensive and silent.


    Blinking several times, Bella looked at Stefan and said, "Stefan, can you find my mother? Please, please... find her immediately before my father does..."


    "I will try to search the CCTV outside your house..." Stefan responded.


    "Thanks..." Bella knew her father¡¯s nature well. If he found her mother, he might be even angrier and torture her more.


    The memories of the past, when her father beat her mother before her eyes, started to engulf Bella again, causing her blood to boil.


    In the past, she was powerless, but now that she has power, she will prevent her father from harming her and her mother again.


    "Stefan, I¡¯m going downstairs to look for Sam. Please let me know if you find anything."


    He said nothing but nodded and stood up, heading towards his computer to try to locate Natalie Wright.


    As Bella watched Stefan immerse himself in his computer, she hurriedly left the room to look for Sam.


    She needed the Sentinel Network members in East City to look for her mother or stand by and wait for Stefan¡¯s results.


    While walking downstairs to her office, Bella called Sam and asked him to come to her office immediately.

 Chapter 289: They Weren’t That Close

    Pacing around the office while waiting for Sam, Bella finally called her mother¡¯s cell phone for the first time in years.


    However, her face turned stiff when the call didn¡¯t connect.


    Bella¡¯s steps halted as her eyes stared at her phone, confused.


    "Did Mom change her cell phone number?" she mumbled, trying to call again.


    The result was the same. Bella could only hear the automated voice from the other end.


    "The number you are calling is not active!"


    Sighing deeply, Bella tried to dismiss her worries that her father had found her mother and would torture her again.


    "No... Mom must have turned off her cell phone to avoid Father finding her, right? She will be fine! I hope she is in a safe place now..." she tried to convince herself.


    Before long,


    Bella finally heard a knock on the door and saw Sam appear behind it.


    Too worried about her mother¡¯s condition, she no longer had time to ask him to sit but immediately told him what was happening in East City.


    Sam was surprised to hear that. "Boss, do you need my help?" he sincerely offered.


    Bella nodded.


    "Yes, I do need your help, Sam. How many of our people are in East City and ready to be mobilized right now?"


    She knew they had some members of the Sentinel Network there to observe the Donovan Group, but she didn¡¯t know the exact number.


    "We have ten people on standby. Do you want me to send some people from other cities there?"


    "Yes, that would be excellent... if you still have a few available near East City." She took a deep sigh before continuing her words. "Well, something will happen there when I take over the Donovan Group in a few days. And because my mother is also missing, I will probably fly there today..."


    After some thought, Bella decided to fly to the East City as soon as possible to look for her mother because she could imagine that this matter might be more complex than it seems.


    Moreover, this was the first time her mother had ever run away from home. That means whatever she has been going through, she could no longer tolerate her father¡¯s evilness.


    "OK, Boss! I will carry out your instructions now," Sam said. When he was about to leave, Bella stopped him.


    "Can you fly there now, Sam?" Bella asked.


    Sam immediately nodded. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sure, Boss. I will..."


    ¡­.


    After Sam left her office, Bella finally sat in her CEO¡¯s chair.


    She tried to dismiss her thoughts about calling her mother again. It was useless to call because she was sure her mother deliberately turned off her cell phone to avoid her evil father.


    However, Bella couldn¡¯t stop worrying about her mother¡¯s safety.


    She tried to remember the places her mother usually visited in the past or the houses of her friends where she might be hiding.


    After a few minutes of thinking, Bella failed to guess because she knew little about her mother. Suddenly, Bella felt terrible when she realized she wasn¡¯t close to her.


    Bella recalls that in her childhood, her parents favored her older brother, Henry. As a result, she spent more time with her Nanny and grandparents. Later, she moved to the capital to study and eventually lived abroad.


    After graduating with her master¡¯s degree, Bella returned to the country. However, she didn¡¯t stay at her parents¡¯ house because she immediately married Tristan at that time.


    Thinking about it all made Bella¡¯s chest feel tight. When she remembered her childhood, she felt annoyance, sadness, and emptiness all mixed.


    Bella remembers she has no happy memories with her parents or older brother.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Let the past remain in the past, Bella. Now, forget all that; your life is much more beautiful now...¡¯ She tries to cheer herself up while leaning back in her chair.


    Slowly, she closed her eyes, trying to divert her worries about her mother.


    But, of course, she failed.


    Her eyes opened again. She sat up straight and took her cell phone.


    After looking at her phone for a few more seconds, Bella decided to call her Aunt Emma; maybe she knew where her mother was now.


    ...


    "Bella?"


    "Yes, it¡¯s me, Aunty..." Bella smiled, hearing her aunt¡¯s confused voice.


    "Why did you call me, dear?" Emma asked, puzzled since they had just talked for a long time this morning.


    "Aunty, I want to ask you something about my mother..." Bella hesitated about whether she should be honest with her aunt. She worried her aunt would panic if she knew her mother had run away.


    "Yes, go on..."


    "Do you know my mother¡¯s best friends? Or her favorite place in East City?" Bella asked carefully, not wanting her aunt to get suspicious and ask further questions.


    Emma didn¡¯t answer immediately. She tried to remember before saying, "There doesn¡¯t seem to be anywhere she¡¯d rather be. You know your father is very protective and never lets your mother leave the house alone, right?"


    "Yes, I know." Bella smiled bitterly. "How about her best friends?"


    "There are only a few of your mother¡¯s friends..." Emma¡¯s voice trailed off, becoming suspicious of Bella¡¯s question. "Bella, why are you suddenly interested in knowing your mother¡¯s best friends?"


    After thinking momentarily about how important it was to find her mother, Bella finally confessed to her aunt.


    "Aunty, I learned that my mother had run away from home. Right now, my father is confused, looking for her..."


    Bella told Emma she knew about this by chance from someone at home who knew Noora. She didn¡¯t mention that she had hacked all her uncle¡¯s and father¡¯s communication devices.


    "W-What? Natalie ran away?" Emma stuttered in surprise at Bella¡¯s words. However, her surprise was brief because she doubted Natalie would run away from home¡ªsomething she thought Natalie couldn¡¯t possibly do.


    "Bella, are you sure? I know your mother would never leave Lucas..."


    "I think so too, Auntie. But if my mother runs away from home, it can only mean one thing. She is no longer strong enough to stay there..."


    "Oh my God!! You¡¯re right, Bella..." Emma sounded panicked and worried. "Let me help you look for her. I¡¯ll try calling someone¡ª"


    "NO, Aunty! Please don¡¯t call anyone about it..." Bella immediately interrupted.


    She feared that if her aunt called anyone and her father found out, he might realize that his cell phone was being hacked or monitored.

 Chapter 290: Worried About Telling Her

    Emma was bewildered when Bella abruptly halted her. She can¡¯t help but ask, "Why on earth did you stop me, dear!?"


    Bella quietly took a deep breath before replying, "Auntie, if you make a fuss now, my father will know my mother¡¯s location. So, don¡¯t make any calls. Please just give me a list of my mother¡¯s best friends..."


    Emma was stunned to hear that; she agreed with Bella. Her shameless brother Lucas could do anything to torture his wife again.


    "Bella, you are absolutely right. If my stupid brother Lucas found Natalie, he might drag her back and torture her to discipline her."


    "Yes, my evil father might do that."


    The two of them fell silent again.


    Emma was busy thinking about Natalie¡¯s friends, who also happened to be her friends because she was in the same circle as Natalie.


    Meanwhile, Bella¡¯s mind suddenly filled with thoughts of Tristan. She needed to call him about this, too. It would be great if Tristan could help her find her mother.


    Before long, Emma broke the silence. She said, "Alright, I will send you a few names. I hope you can find a new clue from them..."


    "Thanks, Aunty¡ª"


    "Bella, I will fly back to East City today. I will also help you try to find your mother."


    Emma decided to return to East City because this was the best way to find Natalie. If she just sat at home without help, her heart and mind would not be able to calm down.


    "Aunty, you¡ª" Bella, unable to continue her words. She was surprised and worried about Aunty Emma¡¯s decision, but she couldn¡¯t stop her either. She could only tell her to be careful and not to arouse suspicion.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I know what I¡¯m doing."


    After they discussed several vital things, Bella finally ended the conversation. She continued to make a call, this time to her husband.


    But strangely, Tristan¡¯s calls went unanswered.


    Bella looked at her cell phone screen for a moment, confused. Tristan always answered her calls right away, even if he was in a meeting. But why didn¡¯t he answer?


    After she got a list of names from her aunt Emma and passed them to Stefan, Bella put her cell phone on the table. She tried to divert her worries about her mother by reading some documents.


    A few minutes later.


    Bella¡¯s concentration was interrupted; her phone rang, breaking the silence.


    When she saw it was Stefan calling, she immediately picked up.


    Before she could say anything, Stefan¡¯s voice could be heard from the other end, "Sister Bella, I found your mother..."


    Instantly, Bella stood from her seat, trying to calm her nerves to hear Stefan¡¯s news. But her stuttering tone betrayed her. "Wh-Where is she? Is she safe?" she asked nervously.


    "Sis, don¡¯t be too shocked, alright..." Stefan¡¯s worried voice rang from the other end, causing Bella to grip her phone tightly. "Yes, I found your mother. And she is in the hospital."


    "Ho-Hospital...?"


    "Yes, hospital..." Stefan began to explain.


    Stefan was worried about telling Bella what he had just discovered, but he couldn¡¯t hide it from her, right?


    He started to inform her that her mother was now meeting with a doctor.


    When he checked Natalie Wright¡¯s medical records, he was shocked to find out that she was suffering from a terminal illness; she had stage three cancer.


    After a few minutes, Stefan concluded his report.


    However, he didn¡¯t hear Bella¡¯s reaction and started worrying about her.


    "Sister, are you there?" Stefan asked.


    Still, he didn¡¯t hear any answer, and his worry grew more apparent. He asked again, "Sis, are you alright? If you do not respond to me now, I will go down¡ª"


    "I¡¯m fine," Bella softly said, but her shaking hand could not hide how shocked she was after hearing that her mother had stage three cancer.


    "Are you really all right, sis?" Stefan asked again. He was worried about continuing to tell her about another medical record he found.


    "Yes, I¡¯m fine. Thank you, Stefan, for your help..."


    After hearing Bella¡¯s calm voice, Stefan continued to inform her of what he had found out.


    "Sis, I found out a post-mortem revealed that your mother experienced physical violence. Almost all of your mother¡¯s body had bruises, including some internal injuries..."


    Bella sneered inwardly while gritting her teeth. She could feel her blood boiling, wanting to vent her anger at her father, who had tortured her mother. How dare he!?


    She opened her mouth several times to say something, but the anger in her chest faded all her sentences.


    "I¡¯m sorry, sis... I hope you are okay there," Stefan felt bad about delivering this bad news to her. "Do you need anything?"


    "Stefan, can you send me my mother¡¯s medical report?"


    "Sure."


    "And, please make sure you know where my mom went after the hospital. I need to know her exact location so I can ask Sam¡¯s people to look after her..."


    "Okay, sis... No worries."


    After ending the call with Stefan, Bella tried to call Tristan again, but his cell phone was still off. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She sighed deeply and put her cell phone in her bag.


    "Tristan, where are you?" she asked herself after she couldn¡¯t reach him, which disturbed her mind even more.


    After taking care of some critical work, Bella took her bag and headed to Leo¡¯s office.


    Since she couldn¡¯t reach Tristan, she needed Leo to arrange a jet so she could fly to the East immediately. She couldn¡¯t let her mother suffer alone.


    She had to help her mother and make sure she was in a safe place.


    ...


    When Bella arrived at Leo¡¯s office, she saw that he had just ended a call. She entered his office and walked toward his desk.


    "Boss? Why you¡ª" Before he could finish his sentence, Bella stopped him.


    "Leo, I have to fly to East City now. Can you find an available jet for me?"


    Leo was surprised to hear Bella¡¯s sudden request. After seeing her unusual facial expression, he nodded and took his cell phone.


    "Boss, you sit first. I need to make a quick call¡­"


    Bella nodded and walked to the seating area, taking her cell phone to call Aunty Emma.

 Chapter 291: Fly To East City

    Before Bella could speak, Emma¡¯s curious and tense voice could be heard from the other end.


    "Bella, did you find your mother?"


    "Yes, Aunty Emma, I found my mother¡­" Bella immediately shared the good news but didn¡¯t mention her mother¡¯s illness.


    "Thank GOD. I¡¯m so happy to hear that, Bella..." Emma shouted in happiness.


    "Yes, me too." A smile graced her face before she continued, "Aunty, where are you now?"


    "I am still at the house; I plan to go to the airport in two hours. Why do you ask?"


    Bella was grateful that Aunty Emma had not yet left the house. She immediately told her aunty about her plan to fly to East City and asked her to prepare to fly with her.


    She would have someone pick her up a few minutes ahead and drive her to the private airport once Leo confirmed the jet she would use.


    Emma was shocked to hear that. She thought Bella would only visit East City in the next few days.


    ¡¯Why did Bella suddenly change her plan?¡¯


    "Did something happen to your mother? Why do you suddenly want to fly there today?" Emma started to get suspicious; something must have happened to Natalie.


    Bella silently took a deep breath. She didn¡¯t plan to tell her over the phone. She still has so many things to do now.


    "Aunty, I will tell you later when we meet," Bella said before excusing herself to end the call. She needed to call Aunty Noora and her son, too.


    After ending the call with Emma, Bella glanced at Leo. She saw him still busy making a call.


    Bella could only pray inwardly, hoping Leo would find a private jet for her as she couldn¡¯t bear the thought of flying a commercial flight. It would be time-consuming.


    Averting her gaze from Leo, Bella dialed Noora¡¯s number.


    The phone connected to the second ring. She immediately asked Noora to pack a few of her clothes and give them to Emma.


    Noora was shocked to hear that.


    Not only was Noora shocked, but Dax, sitting beside Noora, could also clearly hear his mother¡¯s voice. He was shocked but remained silent and continued to listen to their conversation.


    "Young Miss, you won¡¯t be coming home tonight?" Noora asked.


    "Yes, I will fly to East City this afternoon with Aunt Emma," Bella responded casually, not wanting to worry Noora if she knew what really happened to her parents in East City.


    "Is there a problem there? Why did you suddenly fly to the East!?" Noora didn¡¯t remember Bella ever talking about visiting East City, so she became suspicious; something terrible had happened there.


    Bella could only sigh softly. She did not answer Noora¡¯s question but instead asked her to prepare clothes because she didn¡¯t have much time.


    Before Noora could ask further, Bella told her to give her phone to Dax. She also needed to talk to her son.


    "Mommy, I¡¯m here. I...hear you will fly to the East?" sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was taken aback to hear how fast Dax took the phone. "Are you with Aunty Noora now?"


    "Yes, Mom. I¡¯m about to take my nap..." Dax replied. "Mom, can I fly with you to the East?"


    This was Bella¡¯s first time doing it¡ªflying to another city without her son¡ªand her heart ached to hear his words.


    She wasn¡¯t opposed to bringing her son to East City. Still, she was concerned that her issues there could cause trouble, especially as she was dealing with her shameless uncles and father.


    Bella also needed enough time to talk to her mother before allowing Dax to meet his grandma from her side. She must ensure his mother would not do or say unimaginable things before Dax.


    "Baby, I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t take you right now because this is a short trip. I promise you, I¡¯ll be back tomorrow morning¡ª" Bella paused when she heard Dax take a deep and profound sigh, a signal of his disappointment.


    Bella felt like someone was squeezing a lemon over her wounded heart. She almost wavered about bringing Dax along but suddenly remembered Tristan.


    "Baby, your father will accompany you tonight. Well, you can sleep together with him again..."


    "Oh, Dad isn¡¯t going with you, Mom?"


    "Yes, of course not. And I won¡¯t let him come even if he wants to. Because I want your daddy to stay with you, and I will return tomorrow before you know it, baby..." Bella felt slightly relieved when she heard Dax¡¯s voice sound somewhat cheerful.


    "OK, Mom. But you must promise me you will return home tomorrow. Or I will tell Daddy to fly me there too..."


    "Hahaha, of course, Baby."


    Bella immediately ended the call when she saw Leo approaching her. She didn¡¯t rush to ask but waited for him to speak.


    ...


    Leo sat in front of Bella with his eyebrow slightly raised. He was still confused about why Bella suddenly wanted to fly to East City.


    As far as he could remember, they had no projects in that city other than Bella¡¯s plan to acquire the Donovan Group. He didn¡¯t know much about Bella¡¯s plan with Donovan Group because he wasn¡¯t involved.


    In the past few weeks, he has been too busy handling matters surrounding Stellar Entertainment and Celebes Energy in Nova City to know what is happening in East City.


    "Did you get the jet or not?" Bella asked impatiently when she saw Leo not saying anything, only staring at her.


    Leo nodded slowly, "Boss, your jet will be ready an hour from now. How many people will fly there? I need to inform the crew to prepare..."


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer him but raised her thumb to compliment Leo. She was impressed with him.


    "I¡¯m Glad to have you work beside me, Leo." She smiles before continuing, "I will fly there with my aunt, Bryan, and some of my bodyguards."


    "OK. I will let them know you¡¯re coming..." Leo stood again from his seat, but before returning to his desk, he narrowed his eyes at Bella, "If I may ask, why did you suddenly fly to the East?" he asked curiously.


    "It¡¯s a¡­family matter!" Bella took a deep breath and told him what happened to her mother. She also told him about her mother¡¯s illness. This is the biggest reason why she had to fly there immediately.


    Leo was utterly shocked as he listened to that. He no longer asked anything but made a call.

 Chapter 292: Something Terrible Happened To Tristan?

    Bella¡¯s eyes were fixed on her cell phone. Her heart pounded with each passing second, waiting for a call from Tristan. But the call she yearned for, the one that would bring her relief, never came.


    Even though she had sent him a few short messages asking him to call her immediately, she still had not received a text from him.


    Her mind started to be noisy, and countless negative thoughts began to worry her, imagining something terrible happening to Tristan.


    Unable to take it anymore, Bella decided to call Dylan, Tristan¡¯s assistant. He must be with Tristan now, right? S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Dylan¡¯s phone couldn¡¯t be reached either after she dialed.


    Bella¡¯s eyebrow furrowed as she looked at her cell phone screen when she found out Dylan¡¯s phone was inactive. This confused her further.


    She decided to try calling Tristan again because his phone was active earlier; he just didn¡¯t pick up. She hoped this time he would hear and pick up her call.


    But,


    Still, the result remained the same.


    Sigh!


    ¡¯Are they in an area with a poor signal?¡¯ Bella muttered to herself, remembering Tristan¡¯s agenda for today.


    As far as she remembered, her husband didn¡¯t say he would go to a remote place. Besides, Astington can¡¯t have such a place without internet access, right?


    Bella put aside her confusion and looked out of the car window at the quiet street outside.


    The street was not busy as their car sped through the city, heading towards a private airport several miles from the city center.


    However, it wasn¡¯t long before Bella¡¯s mind was filled with thoughts of Tristan again. Her worry started to make her heart restless. Not being able to contact her husband made her even more anxious. What¡¯s more, at a time like this, she was flying to another city without telling him yet.


    Bella turned her gaze back to Bryan, sitting in the front seat next to the driver.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, Bella finally asked him, "Bryan, can you communicate with my husband or Dylan?"


    Bryan immediately nodded, "Sure, I can communicate with them, ma¡¯am. How about you... You can¡¯t?"


    Bella explained that she had lost contact with Tristan for over two hours.


    "Bryan, can you try contacting them now?" Bella asked. "I need to inform my husband about our sudden departure to East City..."


    Bryan was shocked to hear they were leaving for the East without Tristan¡¯s knowledge. He immediately took out his cell phone and tried to contact Dylan.


    However, like Bella, Bryan couldn¡¯t reach him either. For a split second, his mind considered the possibility: if his Boss and Dylan couldn¡¯t be contacted, it meant they were in an underground base.


    ¡¯Are they there now?¡¯ Bryan muttered inwardly as he opened a unique app on his cell phone and sent a message to Max. The only way to contact their Boss in the underground base was through their hacker.


    [Bryan] Max, this is important. I need you to contact the Boss immediately. His wife tried to call him, but it didn¡¯t go through, and she is worried now.


    [Bryan] Also, can you tell the Boss that his wife is now on her way to the airport? We¡¯re headed to East City.


    [Bryan] We will arrive at the airport in about thirty minutes.


    "Can you contact them, Bryan?" Bella¡¯s curious, impatient voice was heard again after Bryan sent Max the message.


    Bryan turned to look at her, "No. They may be in an area with no signal, ma¡¯am." He couldn¡¯t possibly inform her about their underground base camp.


    Bella¡¯s shoulders slumped when she heard Bryan couldn¡¯t contact them either. She became increasingly worried about her husband.


    But Bella found Bryan¡¯s answer hard to believe.


    ¡¯Are there really locations in the country where we can¡¯t get a phone signal?¡¯ she muttered in disbelief.


    Feeling tired of worrying about Tristan, Bella tried to close her eyes and leaned back in her seat.


    ****


    Meanwhile, in the underground base at the city border,


    Tristan emerged from the room wearing a light blue shirt stained with blood. His expression was dark, and his eyes were as cold as ice. It was clear he was in a bad mood.


    Dylan, who was waiting for him outside, immediately approached and offered him a cloth to wipe his blood-stained hands.


    "Boss, we have to head to the office immediately. You still have a meeting this afternoon with a few shareholders," Dylan said as he followed Tristan toward another floor.


    "Okay," Tristan responded without looking at him, wiping away the blood that stained his hands.


    "I have prepared new, clean clothes for you inside, Boss. Please..." Dylan opened the door to a room that resembled a bedroom.


    Then, he stood in front of the door, waiting for Tristam.


    Occasionally, Dylan looked at his watch, worried about their following schedule.


    "Damn! We¡¯re late..." He muttered anxiously.


    The shareholder meeting this afternoon would be held in twenty minutes, and they were still in this area; it would take around 45 minutes to get to the office. They were definitely late.


    "Dylan, where is he!?" Suddenly, Reid appeared and ran over to Dylan, who looked at him curiously.


    "Boss? He¡¯s changing clothes inside. What¡¯s wrong?" Dylan asked, confused by Reid¡¯s tense face, as if something had happened outside.


    Reid didn¡¯t answer, pacing back and forth in front of the room, making Dylan even more confused.


    "Damn! Man, can you stop walking like that? You¡¯re giving me a headache!" Dylan protested, glaring at Reid.


    "This is very important," Reid said, looking Dylan in the eye. "It¡¯s about our young madam. She¡ª" Before Reid could finish, the door opened.


    Now neatly dressed in a clean shirt of the same color as before, with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, Tristan fixed his eyes on Reid.


    "What¡¯s wrong with my wife?" Tristan asked while fixing his hair.


    "Sir, Young Madam is heading to the airport. She will fly to East City in a few minutes..."


    "WHAT!? Why didn¡¯t you tell me about this earlier?" Tristan said, immediately heading towards the elevator.


    Dylan and Reid followed closely behind him.


    "Where¡¯s my phone?" Tristan asked Dylan as soon as they got into the elevator.


    "In the car¡ª"

 Chapter 293: Someone Waiting For Her At The Airport

    "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m sorry to wake you, but we¡¯ve arrived..."


    Bella vaguely heard Bryan¡¯s voice. She opened her eyes and looked out the window. The car had stopped in front of the private airport¡¯s main entrance.


    This was her umpteenth time here, and she was already familiar with the place.


    There weren¡¯t many people around as they arrived that late noon.


    She followed Bryan into the airport, thinking they were heading straight to the plane because they ran out of time.


    Before they arrived, Bella had received a message from her aunt Emma. She informed her that she had already boarded the plane.


    However, now Bryan has led her to the VIP waiting room, which confuses her. Curiosity rising, she looks at Bryan and asks, "Bryan, is the plane not ready yet? Why do you bring me to this waiting area?"


    "Mam, someone wants to see you..." Bryan answered her.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She didn¡¯t recall Leo arranging a brief meeting for her at the airport. Just as she was about to ask Bryan, she spotted a familiar figure: Dylan, standing a few meters away.


    Instantly, her heart quickened as she realized the person who wanted to meet her was none other than her husband.


    Without realizing it, she half-ran toward Dylan.


    Dylan saw Bella and immediately approached her. He greeted her politely. "Ma¡¯am... Mr. Sinclair wants to meet you inside," he said while opening the door for her.


    Responding to Dylan¡¯s polite smile with a slight nod, Bella entered the room. However, her steps halted as the door closed behind her. She fixed her gaze on Tristan, standing at the end of the room with his back to her. It seemed he had not yet noticed her presence.


    Bella stood there for a few seconds, trying to calm her racing heart. On her way to the airport, she felt tortured and afraid because she couldn¡¯t contact him, which made her unhappy. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But, seeing him safe and sound now, she felt grateful he was fine, far from the terrible thoughts that had plagued her mind earlier.


    After another moment passed, a smile bloomed on her lips. However, Bella¡¯s smile only lasted a few seconds; her smile slowly faded, replaced with annoyance because he hadn¡¯t picked up her calls.


    Bella planned to approach him and vent her anger, but Tristan turned to look at her before she reached him.


    Her steps suddenly halted, her heart beat faster, and her anger faded when she saw the calm, loving smile on his face.


    "Tr-Tristan..." Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words when she saw him walking quickly towards her.


    In a blink, she was already in his arms. Her face lay on his firm chest, allowing her to hear the loud sound of his heartbeat.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why does he sound worried and afraid?¡¯ She wondered while pulling her head away from Tristan to see his face.


    However, Tristan¡¯s hand gently placed on the back of her head stopped her. She was about to say something when his voice could be heard near her, "My darling wife, please stay still."


    Hearing Tristan¡¯s hoarse and slightly trembling voice caused her even more worry. "Are you all right?" she asked.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say a word, but his deep breath was enough to make Bella feel his fear and sadness. Even though she was confused, she remained silent, waiting for him to say something.


    Before long,


    Finally, Bella could feel Tristan¡¯s arms loosen. She looked up to see his face and was relieved that his expression was no longer as dark.


    She smiled at him, "What happened? Something troubling you?"


    "My darling wife, I¡¯m really sorry if I made you worry." Finally, Tristan spoke, his hands gently caressing several strands of Bella¡¯s hair. "I left my phone in the car and couldn¡¯t hear your call."


    "It¡¯s okay, Hubby. I get why you did it..." Bella paused, unsure where to start explaining about her mother. "Well, actually, I¡¯m the one who needs to apologize to you because I have to fly to East City in a rush. My mother¡ª"


    "I know everything. Your mother is in the hospital now," Tristan said when he saw she seemed confused about how to explain.


    "Y-You know about my mother?" Bella was surprised.


    Tristan was right; the last news Bella heard was that her mother was still in the hospital. She would be hospitalized because she had so many internal injuries and was psychologically unstable¡ªtraumatized.


    Bella also read from Stefan¡¯s information that members of the Sentinel Network were on standby at the hospital¡ªjust in case her father found out her mother was there. He might come to the hospital to make a scene.


    "Yes, I know. After I read your text, where you mentioned you were suddenly heading to the East City, I asked Max to check what happened there, and he found out that your mother had run away from home and was now in the hospital."


    Tristan felt terrible because he couldn¡¯t help her earlier. He was too busy taking care of something in an underground base, which caused him to lose contact with her when she desperately needed his help to solve her family matter.


    Rushing out from his base, Tristan found out that her assistant, Leo, had contacted Albert, the private airport director, to ask about the availability of a jet he could rent.


    Albert, who takes care of all his jets, offered Leo to use Dax¡¯s jet. By using his airport, Tristan had enough power to delay their departure so he could meet her now.


    "I feel bad for my mother. That¡¯s why I need to go there and check her condition..." Bella told him she planned to help her mother, even though her mother didn¡¯t ask for help from her or anyone in their family.


    Sighing deeply, Bella continued, "Hubby, I hope you don¡¯t mind if I fly there to meet her. And, you know what? I feel terrible because I have to fly there in a hurry, leaving you and our son behind..."

 Chapter 294: Her Chance To Help!

    "Oh, my silly woman..." Tristan chuckled while he slowly stroked her cheek lovingly. "Of course, I don¡¯t mind. If I had known about this earlier, I would have flown with you."


    "Thank you, Mr. Sinclair. You are so kind. But... I won¡¯t allow you to fly with me. Not this time," she paused, amused when she saw his expression turn gloomy as if protesting her words.


    Bella hurriedly continued, "You need to stay at home, Mr. Sinclair. Be a good father. We have a son to care for, remember? And I want you to accompany him..."


    Tristan gasped. How could he forget entirely about his son?


    After scolding himself inwardly, he cleared his throat before saying,


    "My darling wife, you are right..." Tristan pinched her perfect, dainty nose, causing Bella to flinch and glare at him. He ignored her glare and continued, "Alright, you can fly there today, but I will fly there tomorrow with our son if you don¡¯t return to us..."


    Bella was rendered speechless. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could he say the exact words as their son?


    "Yes, Sir!" Bella jokingly answered, "Mr. Sinclair, you have to let me fly now; I¡¯m afraid my father will find my mother if you keep me here for too long," she said, concerned. She wanted to make sure her mother was in a safe location.


    "There¡¯s no need to rush, dear. I¡¯ve sent my people to the hospital. They will make sure your father or anyone who knows your mother can¡¯t reach her room...or even enter my hospital!"


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She didn¡¯t expect Tristan to mobilize his people so quickly, and hearing the hospital was actually under the Sinclair Group relieved her.


    "My people will pick you up at the airport. And, because I know you will fly only with Bryan... I will send Dylan to accompany you. He will take care of everything during your stay there."


    Bella could only nod. She couldn¡¯t refuse his help now.


    ****


    In East City.


    Bella and the others arrived at the private airport. She saw several cars in a row waiting for them.


    Before she followed Dylan to the first car they would ride in, her eyes fell on Sam, leaning against the second car. She didn¡¯t rush to enter the vehicle Dylan provided for her but approached Sam first.


    She felt terrible asking Sam to fly here to take care of her arrival and her mother¡¯s hospital stay. But now, she would not need him because Tristan had already arranged everything.


    "Sorry, Sam, to trouble you by coming to this place so suddenly when you¡¯re busy in the capital..." Bella apologetically said.


    Sam chuckled and shook his head, "It¡¯s fine, boss. Before you arrived, I had already communicated with Mr. Sinclair¡¯s people here. So, I don¡¯t do much. Well... I only make sure they do what you want..." he explained.


    "Glad to hear that, Sam." Bella felt relieved. "Dylan is here to assist me, so you can return to the capital if you have pending work there."


    "I will stay here, Boss. I don¡¯t have much work there, and I can follow up with my team online," Sam explained while leading her to the first car. "Boss, you should hurry to the hospital..."


    "Ah, you are right." Bella immediately got into the same car with Dylan and Aunty Emma, while Bryan now drove for them.


    Along the way to the hospital, Bella felt tense. So many questions she wanted to ask her mother now danced in her mind.


    The closer they got to the hospital, the more worried she became because, for almost ten years, she had no communication with her mother.


    She faintly sighed a few times while gazing out the window. She tried to distract her mind from her mother and hide her worried expression from Emma.


    However, Emma could clearly feel Bella¡¯s restlessness, causing her to become concerned about her.


    Emma¡¯s voice broke the silence, filled with concern for her niece. "Bella, try not to worry too much. Your mother is a fighter. She¡¯ll pull through her illness..." She tried to cheer her up.


    Bella sighed as her mind reeled back to the past when she was still living at her parents¡¯ house. She resented her mother for allowing her husband to mistreat her to protect them. She had seen it so many times that eventually, there was no pity left¡ªor she had closed her heart and mind to not feel that way; she could no longer tell the difference.


    However,


    When she was pregnant, gave birth, and raised her son alone under challenging conditions, she slowly related to her mother¡¯s suffering, and eventually, she understood why her mother allowed herself to be tortured to protect them¡ªbecause her mother loved them.


    This is what she feels. She wanted to do that for her son; she would do anything to protect Dax or sacrifice her feelings for him because she loved him so much.


    When Bella met her mother a few months ago in the hospital and witnessed how her mother still stood beside her abusive husband, Bella¡¯s plan to help slowly faded.


    It would have been pointless to ask her mother to leave her father then. Her mother might have scolded her. Someone like her mother would not have been able to escape her suffering if she hadn¡¯t decided for herself. They would not have listened to anyone¡¯s words but their own.


    Sigh!


    This is why, after she found out that her mother had run away from home, escaping from her abusive husband, she wanted to meet her immediately. This was her chance to help her mother.


    Bella adjusted her expression to calm herself before she turned to see her aunty.


    "Yes, I hope so, Aunty. I hope Mom will be stronger and never waver again when my father pleads for forgiveness¡­"


    "I will scold Natalie this time if she returns to my evil brother!" Emma said. She gently tapped Bella¡¯s shoulder before continuing, "So, as planned, I will meet your mother before you meet her, right?"


    "Yes, Aunty. You meet her first. Because I need to meet my mom¡¯s doctor first¡­" Bella had already made an appointment with the doctor, thanks to her husband, who arranged it for her.

 Chapter 295: Refusing The Undergo Treatment! (1)

    Not long after, the car stopped in the underground parking.


    They deliberately parked there to avoid attracting attention, especially when Lucas Donovan was still sending his people out to look for Natalie Wright across the city.


    Later,


    Bella arrived at the doctor¡¯s room but didn¡¯t enter right away. She turned to Dylan and Bryan, who walked behind her.


    "You guys just rest, find a coffee shop, and enjoy your afternoon coffee. There¡¯s no need to accompany me. I¡¯ll see the doctor myself."


    She didn¡¯t want them to hear about her mother¡¯s illness or the abuse her mother had endured. How embarrassing!


    "Ms. Sinclair, are you sure?" Dylan asked worriedly. "I can accompany you inside..." He still remembered his boss¡¯s instructions to accompany her in dealing with the doctor and arrange everything she needed while she was in this city.


    "Ma¡¯am, we don¡¯t need coffee. Don¡¯t worry about us; we¡¯re still fully awake right now," Bryan said, trying to persuade her. "What we need is to help you see the doctor inside¡­"


    Bella, "..."


    "Jeez!! You guys don¡¯t mind accompanying me, but I do! Can you both just let me be alone?" Bella wanted to say that, but she halted it when she remembered these two men had already helped her a lot recently.


    After inwardly taking a deep sigh, she politely refused them. "It¡¯s fine, Dylan, Bryan... I feel more comfortable meeting the doctor alone."


    "But, ma¡¯am..."


    "Are you sure, ma¡¯am?"


    "Yes... Yes... Go, buy me a coffee," Bella said, trying to distract these two men who competed to help her. She found them amusing.


    "Which coffee?" Dylan asked, finally feeling relieved that he could do something for her. After so many years of knowing her, this was his first assignment to help her; he needed to do good.


    "The coffee sold several miles from this place; try to come back in two hours," Bella said casually, holding back her laugh when she saw them gasp in shock.


    Dylan, "..."


    Bryan, "..."


    Did the young lady just play a prank on us? This question lingers on their minds as they walk away from the corridor.


    ...


    After looking at each other, the two guys, initially reluctant to leave her alone, had to give up their wish to accompany her. Now, they finally left her alone; Bella smiled and turned her gaze back to the door.


    Her smile faded, replaced with a calm expression as she knocked on the door.


    Then, she faintly heard a cheerful woman¡¯s voice inside telling her to come in. Slowly, her hand pressed the doorknob, and she entered the room.


    Bella was surprised to see the female doctor sitting in the office chair, looking in her direction.


    The doctor¡¯s features were similar to her mother¡¯s. She looked slender, with shoulder-length black hair. Her small face looked even smaller, with her large gold-rimmed glasses perched on her sharp nose.


    ¡¯Why does this woman seem familiar?¡¯ Bella wondered while trying to recall where she had seen her.


    Before Bella could remember, the doctor stood from her seat with a gasp and teary eyes. She walks, approaching Bella.


    "He-Heaven! Ar-Are you, Bella? Oh my god... You have grown so beautiful, my dear Bella..." she said, stopping right before Bella, who was still having trouble remembering her.


    When the doctor held her hand, Bella¡¯s vague memories began to emerge. But, before confirming her hypothesis, the familiar-looking doctor speaks again.


    "Oh, you don¡¯t remember me, Bella!?" The doctor faintly smiled. "I used to meet you when you were still this tall, in elementary school..." she said with her hand raised to her tummy to show how tall Bella was the last time she met her.


    Bella gasped in surprise when she recognized this woman. It was her mother¡¯s best friend, Angie Robert.


    She had always met this woman in the past when she followed her mother to see her, long before her father became abusive toward them.


    "Aunt Angie, right!?" Bella said, smiling happily.


    "Yes... Yes, dear... I¡¯m Aunty Angie." She answered while embracing Bella. She felt so happy to meet her after so many years of only hearing about her from Natalie.


    "It¡¯s nice to meet you again finally, Bella¡­" Angie continued.


    Bella awkwardly smiled while in Aunty Angie¡¯s embrace. "Me too, Aunty. And I am also happy to know you are my mother¡¯s doctor."


    Now Bella understood why her mother still came to S International Hospital, owned by the Sinclair Group, after what happened between Donovan and Sinclair five years ago. It was because her mother¡¯s best friend was her doctor specialist in this hospital.


    Angie loosened her embrace when she heard Bella say, "Doctor." Instantly, her mind refocused on her best friend¡¯s illness.


    Attempting to conceal her worry and fear about Natalie¡¯s condition, Angie calmly smiled at Bella while leading her to a chair.


    "Alright, Bella, let¡¯s sit and talk," Angie Robert said, pulling a chair for Bella opposite her desk. "We can chat about old times later, my dear. But for now, we don¡¯t have much time. We need to talk about your mother¡¯s illness." She sat in her own chair and looked at Bella with concern. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella nodded, agreeing with her.


    "I believe you already know about your mother¡¯s illness, right?" Angie asked.


    Angie Robert was curious when suddenly the hospital director told her to meet someone who wanted to know about Natalie Wright¡¯s illness. She didn¡¯t expect the visitor to be Bella, as she knew Bella lived abroad.


    What confused her was how Bella knew the hospital director!?


    "Yes, I know about it..." Bella answered calmly. "Aunty, can you tell me when my mother was diagnosed and what treatment she has already received?"


    Suddenly, Angie Robert¡¯s expression became gloomy; she could no longer hide how worried she was for her best friend. She was actually not too concerned about her friend¡¯s illness because Natalie¡¯s breast cancer could be cured.


    However, Angie was worried because Natalie refused to undergo treatment. She felt terrible telling Bella about this, but she had to. She needed Bella to persuade Natalie.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry to tell you, but your mother refuses chemotherapy..."

 Chapter 296: Refusing The Undergo Treatment! (2)

    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry to tell you, but your mother refuses chemotherapy..."


    "W-What¡ª" No more words came out of her mouth. She was shocked and speechless to hear that.


    Her hand turned cold as she listened to Aunty Angie¡¯s explanation.


    However, one question now bothered her mind: Why did her mother refuse chemotherapy? Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Angie continued to explain when she saw Bella unable to say anything.


    "We found out about your mother¡¯s cancer last year. Since then, your mother has refused to undergo treatment. Even though I convinced her many times, she still refused."


    Angie¡¯s gloomy face slowly faded, replaced with a warm smile, looking at Bella.


    "Bella, now that you¡¯re back and know about your mother¡¯s illness, I hope you can convince her to do chemotherapy. If we delay treating her cancer, it might get worse. And, if we¡¯re too late, we won¡¯t be able to help her."


    There were no words that could describe Bella¡¯s current feelings. The fear that her mother would die¡ªthis was the feeling she often experienced when she saw her father torture her mother in the past. It was too hurtful to witness or to remember those times.


    A long time ago, she had buried this feeling of fear in the abyss of her heart, and now, hearing her mother might die because of her illness, that fear had emerged again.


    It made her chest feel tight like someone was blocking her breathing.


    "Bella, are you alright, dear!?" Angie asked when she saw Bella¡¯s face pale and her breathing becoming shallow. She immediately stood up and took out a water bottle from the shelf in the corner. "Drink this water, Bella..." she offered as she placed her hand on Bella¡¯s shoulder.


    Angie¡¯s question snapped Bella out of her thoughts. She turned to look at Angie, standing beside her. She didn¡¯t say anything but accepted the water bottle.


    After drinking almost half the bottle, Bella felt a little relieved. Her breathing no longer felt short, but her mind was still blurry. Countless questions were now dancing in her mind, demanding answers.


    "Aunt Angie, if my mother were to seek treatment now, would there still be hope of recovery? I mean, fully recovered?"


    This was Bella¡¯s number one question. She needed to know this before considering what other steps she needed to take.


    "Yes. But there¡¯s a variable that could¡ª" Angie paused as she looked Bella in the eyes, concerned about her mother¡¯s mental state after what she experienced last night¡ªbeing beaten by her own husband.


    When Angie saw Natalie this morning, the first thing she wanted to do was go to the police and report that scum, Lucas Donovan. How dare he beat his own wife like a punching bag? He is not human but a devil!


    However, telling Bella about her father now stopped her. Angie worried that Bella might be shocked if she heard about this.


    ...


    Bella clenched her hand into a fist, waiting for Angie to speak. But Angie didn¡¯t continue her words. A worry flashed through Bella¡¯s gaze when she saw Angie, who seemed reluctant to tell her something.


    ¡¯Did my mother have another illness I didn¡¯t know about!?¡¯ Bella muttered under her breath.


    Just thinking about it was enough to make her stomach feel cramped.


    "What is it, Aunty?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry to ask. But... Did you know about what happened to your mother? I mean... Did you know about your father¡¯s temper, beating your mother when he was angry!?"


    Hearing Angie¡¯s words was enough for Bella to understand what she wanted to say. She suppressed the anger in her stomach and took a deep breath before responding.


    "Yes, I did know about it..." Bella gritted her teeth, remembering her evil father.


    If her father appeared before her now, she might beat him to death!


    "Aunty, did something happen to my mother?" Bella asked. She tried to appear calm, but the anger flashing through her eyes betrayed her.


    "Yes, when Natalie came to this hospital to meet me, her mental state was unstable. I¡¯m concerned that if this continues, her condition will worsen," Angie said with concern.


    Bella already knew about this information from the medical report she received from Stefan.


    After discussing many things with Angie, Bella realized she needed to persuade her mother to undergo treatment.


    "I understand, Aunty. I will meet my mother now and speak to her. Please, Aunty, prepare for her treatment. And do your best to help her clear her cancer..." Bella stood from her seat and excused herself.


    She couldn¡¯t waste more time, or else her mother¡¯s illness would become worse.


    Besides, she felt like she couldn¡¯t hold back from telling her mother about what had happened in her life recently.


    "No worries, dear," Angie said as she stood up from her seat. She walked Bella to the door and said, "I will try my best. But your mother has to agree to stay and undergo several procedures in our cancer facility in the capital. This is necessary for her cancer treatment."


    Bella stopped before she reached the door. She looked at Angie and said, "That¡¯s good, Auntie. I live in the capital, so caring for my ill mother will be much more convenient."


    Angie was stunned to hear Bella¡¯s words.


    ¡¯Wow! Bella is willing to take care of her mother. And she is back for good in this country?¡¯ Angie instantly felt happy for her best friend.


    For years, Natalie had talked about her daughter, who no longer cared about her and even chose to live abroad to avoid their family. She thought Bella had only come to visit.


    Angie grabbed Bella¡¯s hand and said, "Oh my God, Bella, I¡¯m so happy you finally returned to this country. Now, I feel relieved you will help your mother through the suffering she was about to experience. Thank you, darling. Thank you..." Her voice shook as she held back her happy tears.


    "No, Aunty. I¡¯m the one who should thank you. Because you helped my mother when she had no one else besides her..." Bella¡¯s heart ached to say those words.


    They discussed a few more things before Bella left Angie Robert¡¯s office.

 Chapter 297: It’s Meaningless For Me To Live

    When Bella left Angie Robert¡¯s office, she saw Dylan and Bryan waiting for her at the end of the corridor near the elevator.


    She walked towards them, but with every step she took, it felt like there were weights around her ankles ¡ª her steps were so heavy.


    Her mind still tried to process what she had discussed with Doctor Angie. Even when Bryan asked her something, she didn¡¯t really hear or understand what he was saying. She could only nod and watch him press the elevator button.


    Later, Dylan walked, and standing before her with a coffee latte in his hand, Bella snapped out of her thoughts, hearing his words.


    "Ma¡¯am, your coffee," Dylan said, handing Bella a warm coffee latte.


    A faint smile graced her face as she said, "How did you know my favorite?" accepting the coffee before continuing her words again, "Did you ask my husband about it?"


    Dylan shook his head. "No, Ma¡¯am. I asked Sam."


    "Ah..." Bella stopped in front of the elevator. Then, she glanced at Bryan beside her, "Bryan, can you call the elevator for us? We need to go to my mother¡¯s VIP room..."


    Bryan was surprised to hear her question. He had already asked her earlier, and he clearly saw her nod. Knowing his mistress must be thinking about her mother, he reassured her, "Yes, ma¡¯am, I already called the elevator."


    "Thank you..." Bella entered the elevator while sipping her latte. She no longer spoke to the two men standing in front of her. Her mind, once again filled with thoughts of her mother¡¯s illness, stressed her again.


    Not long after, Bella stood in front of the VIP treatment room where her mother was staying.


    She stood there for a few more minutes, doing nothing, just standing still like a statue. Somehow, she didn¡¯t dare to open the door, which caused Bryan and Dylan to worry.


    "Ma¡¯am, do you want to rest in your room for a while?" Dylan suggested an idea to her because she could see how mentally exhausted she was now.


    Bella turned her gaze to Dylan, frowning slightly at his offer. A room to rest? Did they book another VIP room for her on this floor, too? She felt puzzled.


    Before Bella could ask, Dylan said, "Ma¡¯am, we emptied this entire floor. So, you can choose any room you want to use."


    Dylan explained that they had secured the whole floor and placed security guards to prevent unauthorized entry and visitors. CCTV blind spot is guarded directly by the security personnel.


    No one could enter this floor without permission from a security guard. Only a few nurses and doctors were explicitly assigned to care for Ms. Natalie Wright.


    Bella was taken aback hearing that. She didn¡¯t expect her husband to make such highly detailed arrangements.


    ¡¯Gosh, Tristan! You don¡¯t have to do this,¡¯ she laughed inwardly, recalling how extravagant her husband was.


    No wonder Aunty Angie was surprised when her mother immediately received VIP treatment from the hospital director.


    Bella almost choked when she talked to Aunty Angie earlier because Angie asked whether she was dating the hospital¡¯s director.


    Gosh!


    However, despite the fuss, Bella was grateful that her mother hadn¡¯t told Aunty Angie about her relationship with the Sinclair family.


    ...


    Sighing deeply, Bella looked around to confirm what Dylan had said.


    She saw that the entire floor was indeed empty of regular people. She only saw several men in black suits sitting in the lounge near the elevator and standing in various spots that CCTV does not cover.


    Bella also noticed Sam in the corner, talking to a few men who wore casual clothes like commoners. She believed they were Sam¡¯s subordinates from Sentinel Network. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After taking in her surroundings, Bella returned her gaze to Dylan and Bryan.


    "It¡¯s okay, guys. I don¡¯t need to rest now¡ªno need to worry about me. Go take your rest; you can do whatever you want. I¡¯m not going anywhere."


    Bella insisted they leave her alone. The place was safe, and they didn¡¯t need to worry about her safety.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..." they both answered and walked away, joining the others in the lounge.


    As for Bella, after taking a deep breath, she finally dared to open the door. She slowly pushed it open and was surprised to find the room, which resembled a living room with a set of sofas, empty.


    No one was there.


    When she checked the room¡¯s opposite corner, she also saw an empty dining table and a small kitchen.


    ¡¯Did Dylan lead me to the wrong room? Why is no one here?¡¯ Bella frowned slightly.


    When she was about to leave the room, her eyes fell on a white door in the corner.


    The door was slightly ajar. She was sure the room was a bedroom.


    Her heart started beating fast again as she realized that her mother and Aunt Emma must be inside.


    She walked toward the door to check, but her steps halted when she faintly heard Aunt Emma¡¯s voice talking to her mother. No, they weren¡¯t talking¡ªthey were crying.


    ...


    Bella overheard her mother saying through her sobs, "Emma, I promise you, I won¡¯t return to Lucas again!"


    "Yes, you have to be separated from him forever! Natalie, you need to care about yourself, heal yourself, and do chemotherapy." Emma tried to convince Natalie.


    "No. I don¡¯t need to do chemotherapy, Emma. I don¡¯t want to live. I¡¯d rather die than live..." Natalie said softly amidst her sobs.


    Emma was shocked when she heard her words. "Natalie!! What are you saying? Don¡¯t say things like that! You can¡¯t die now. Please, never think about it..."


    Natalie took a deep breath before answering Emma.


    "Why should I live? It¡¯s meaningless for me to live, Emma. Lucas will never change. He will still torture me if he finds out I¡¯m still alive. Then, Henry, that child never cared about me even though he could defend me, protect me from Lucas¡¯ torture."


    Emma was utterly speechless. She opened her mouth a few times but could not say anything because what Natalie said was true.


    "Meanwhile, my daughter, Bella..." Natalie¡¯s voice shook, "I don¡¯t know where she is now. Why should I live if the people I consider family don¡¯t care about me anymore?"

 Chapter 298: Mother And Daughter Heartbreaking Moment (1)

    Emma took a deep breath, resisting the urge to tell Natalie that Bella had returned to the country, was still married to Tristan Sinclair, and even had an adorable son named Daxton Donovan Sinclair.


    However, she kept her mouth shut because Bella had warned her not to reveal everything to Natalie¡ªshe would tell her mother directly.


    Emma could only take a deep breath, seeing how sad Natalie was.


    "Besides, if I do chemotherapy, it won¡¯t be cheap. I don¡¯t have the money to pay the hospital fees," Natalie continued to tell Emma how sad and pathetic her life was.


    Tears dripped from the corners of Natalie¡¯s eyes. She realized that despite marrying Lucas, the heir to a wealthy and prestigious family in the city, she had no money. She was broke, the same as before she entered the Donovan family.


    Lucas had rarely given her cash, only cards. Since she decided to break ties with Lucas, she returned all the cards he had given her. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The money she had now came from her father-in-law¡¯s yearly birthday gifts and her savings before marrying Lucas. However, the money was only enough for her to survive alone until death approached her.


    After leaving the hospital, she planned to move to a small village far away and rent a small house with a garden surrounded by trees. She¡¯s hoping to live the rest of her life peacefully without Lucas Donovan.


    Emma was utterly shocked to hear Natalie¡¯s words. She grabbed Natalie¡¯s shaking, cold hands.


    "Natalie, so, the reason you refuse chemotherapy is because you don¡¯t have money? Silly woman!! I will pay for everything. Please, do chemo... at least for your daughter¡ª" Emma¡¯s voice trailed off when she heard Bella¡¯s voice from the door.


    "Aunty Emma, can you please leave us alone?" Bella said calmly, her eyes fixed on Emma, ignoring her mother¡¯s shocking gasp.


    "B-Bella... Finally, you come..." Emma nodded her head. She was so happy that Bella had finally come around when she felt she could no longer hold herself back from telling Natalie about her daughter.


    Emma stood from Natalie¡¯s bedside. "Oh, talk to your mom. I will wait outside," she said, patting Bella¡¯s shoulder and leaving the room immediately.


    After closing the door, Bella didn¡¯t immediately approach her mother¡¯s bed. She stood still, her gaze fixed on her pitiful mother.


    Her mother looked even thinner than when Bella had last seen her a few months ago. Her face, which used to be pretty and young, now looked increasingly old and pale. Her hair was getting shorter and whiter, making Bella¡¯s hands tremble with emotion. It felt like someone had just wrenched her heart.


    Bella¡¯s eyes met her mother¡¯s reddened eyes, and tears rolled down her cheeks. Her heart felt like it sank.


    ¡¯Mother, I¡¯m sorry that you had to suffer this much to be Lucas Donovan¡¯s wife, to be my mother,¡¯ Bella whispered to herself while clenching her teeth, holding back the mixed emotions now surfacing in her heart.


    Her legs, which still feel heavy, finally moved closer to the bed. Every step she took made her heart hurt more.


    "M-My daughter... B-Be-Bella..."


    Natalie¡¯s shaky voice made Bella¡¯s hands clenched tightly at her sides. She kept dragging her feet closer to her pitiful mother while her eyes never left her.


    "You came... How... How did you know I¡¯m here? Did Emma tell you I¡¯m in this¡ª" Natalie felt her tongue suddenly stiffen. She felt embarrassed for her daughter to witness how pathetic she was now. All the sentences strung together in her gloomy mind suddenly disappeared.


    Natalie could only cry silently, seeing her beautiful daughter standing before her. They were so close now, but somehow, she felt distant because she didn¡¯t know how to react. Should she be happy or afraid?


    They stared at each other for a moment without anyone trying to break the silence, as if they were both sharing their sadness through their gaze.


    However,


    When Natalie saw Bella¡¯s eyes turn red and tears slowly fall from the corners of her eyes, she could not hold back from speaking.


    "Oh dear Bella, don¡¯t cry. Please, don¡¯t stain your pretty face with your tears. It broke my heart to see you like this," Natalie said between tears.


    After so many years without a meeting, Natalie found it hard to believe that her second encounter with her daughter would be as miserable as this one.


    Bella¡¯s mouth twitched upon hearing her mother¡¯s words. She slowly raised her hand to wipe the tears from her cheeks, trying to regain control of herself and prevent her sadness from overwhelming her.


    After taking a deep breath and feeling her heart slowly calm down, just like her mind, Bella finally flashed her mother a small smile, trying to calm her worried mother.


    "Please sit beside me, dear," Natalie asked awkwardly when Bella finally moved closer to her bed. "Did you hear everything I said to your aunt?" she continued while trying to sit properly on the bed.


    "Yes. I heard everything," Bella calmly replied while sitting on the chair by the bed.


    Bella continued her words with a shaking voice, "I¡¯m sorry I came so late. I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t be a good daughter for you. I¡¯m..."


    "No, Bella, no. Please, my child. Please stop. You don¡¯t need to apologize to me. It has never been your fault, and I don¡¯t deserve it," Natalie hurriedly interrupted. She felt even more heartbroken hearing her daughter blame herself.


    "I was the wrong one. I never cared what you said. I even mistreated you. Sorry, my daughter."


    Natalie felt heartache when she remembered how badly she had treated Bella, choosing her son, Henry, over her daughter. She knew what she had done to Bella would break Bella¡¯s heart, but her fear of Lucas blinded her mind and heart.


    When Bella heard her mother¡¯s anxious and heartbreaking voice, she couldn¡¯t help but feel bad.


    Taking another deep sigh, she said, "Mom, can we put aside what happened in the past? It¡¯s a new beginning for both of us..."

 Chapter 299: Mother And Daughter Heartbreaking Moment (2)

    Bella tried to focus on her mother¡¯s illness first. As for what happened in the past, they would talk about it later.


    She and her mother agree that the past should be forgiven and not forgotten. They will discuss it slowly and without rushing.


    "Mother, I won¡¯t say much now, but I beg you to get treatment immediately. You have to undergo chemotherapy and be cancer-free."


    Natalie shook her head, turning her gaze away from Bella.


    "Mom, please..." Bella knew her mother might refuse again.


    "Oh, dear... Why would I do that? When I don¡¯t have a happy future with my family..." Natalie said without looking at Bella. She feared she would waver if she saw her daughter¡¯s gaze.


    "Your father will continue to torture me. Your brother Henry will never care about me either. Meanwhile, you?" Natalie paused to take another deep breath. "You will definitely leave again..."


    Natalie¡¯s voice trembled as her tears slowly fell again from her eyes. "Bella, My daughter, there¡¯s no good reason for me to continue to live..."


    Bella, "¡­"


    "Mom, please hear me first..." Bella said, making sure her mother looked her in the eyes before she calmly responded. "If I said you still have a future with me, with my child, and my husband, would you consider doing your chemotherapy treatment?" sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m sorry, daughter, but my decision is still the same. I cannot endure if your father finds me. He will torture¡ª" Natalie suddenly stopped when she realized something.


    ¡¯Wait... Bella said, child? Husband? She married again?¡¯


    Gasping in shock, Natalie stuttered as she asked, "B-Bella... Yo-you what? You have a child?" She asked to make sure she didn¡¯t hear it wrong.


    Bella nodded faintly, "Yes, Mom. I have a son¡­"


    Natalie covered her gasping mouth, too shocked to hear her daughter had a son. Her eyes were still staring at Bella, unable to say something.


    After a few more seconds, when she felt slightly calmer, Natalie asked Bella again, "You¡¯ve married again? When? Why didn¡¯t you share the news with us?"


    Lucas and she had not heard about their daughter¡¯s wedding. Therefore, she could only agree with Lucas when he told her he would marry Bella to his friend, Bradley.


    ...


    Her mother¡¯s reaction amused Bella. She wanted to tell her everything about her marriage to Tristan, but something was stopping her; she needed to force her to undergo treatment first.


    "Mom, I won¡¯t tell you anything until you agree to do chemotherapy. It would be pointless if you knew otherwise, right?" Bella said casually while smiling faintly. She held back her laugh when she saw her mother¡¯s panicked state.


    ¡¯What? Bella won¡¯t talk to me anymore? Oh, no! If I die now, I will never know about my daughter¡¯s husband and son...¡¯ Natalie felt troubled. She couldn¡¯t let this happen.


    "Well, my little son is adorable, Mom. But, once again, you won¡¯t be able to meet him if you insist you do not want to heal¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t continue her words. She saw her mother trying to get out of bed.


    Bella immediately stood from her chair. She wanted to help her mother, but her mother grabbed her hand and embraced her.


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s calm heart and mind became chaotic again when she felt her mother¡¯s fragile body shaking as she hugged her.


    Bella felt incredibly awkward as her mother embraced her. It had been many years since she had been in her mother¡¯s arms, the last time being when she was about to leave for the capital to pursue her studies.


    Natalie¡¯s eerie cry shattered the room¡¯s silence once more, intensifying the atmosphere of sadness. After a few seconds, she embraced her daughter and began to speak through her tears.


    "Oh, Bella, my daughter." Natalie took a deep breath before continuing, "I will do it. I¡¯m willing to undergo chemotherapy. We can call my doctor now to let her know. Please, don¡¯t prevent me from meeting my grandson and son-in-law. I want to meet them..."


    Bella¡¯s smile slowly spread across her lips when she heard her mother finally give in.


    "Okay, I won¡¯t stop you from meeting my son and husband. But Mom, can you let me go now? I can¡¯t talk if you hug me this tightly."


    After Bella helped her mother sit comfortably while leaning against the head of the bed, she also sat on the edge of the bed. But, just as she was about to speak, Natalie stopped her.


    "Daughter, let me call my doctor first," Natalie said, taking a bell hanging near her bed. But before she pressed the bell to call a nurse on duty, Bella stopped her.


    "Mom, you don¡¯t need to do that. I¡¯ve already met with your doctor, Aunt Angie. I asked her to arrange everything for your treatment," Bella explained, smiling at her mother, who was gasping in surprise.


    Bella continued, "We will fly to the capital tomorrow. Because S International Hospital¡¯s cancer facility is in the capital, not here..."


    "So, you already know everything about me through your Aunt Angie..." Natalie feels foolish to try to hide anything from her daughter. That silly Angie must have told Bella everything about her illness and what had happened to her recently.


    "Yes. Mom, about how father tortured you last night..." Bella¡¯s voice shook, imagining her father hitting her mother. "I will make sure he gets his punishment!"


    When Bella saw her mother¡¯s frightened expression, her heart ached. Now she understood what Aunty Angie was trying to tell her ¡ª that her mother¡¯s mental state was not stable. She was traumatized by the abuse she received from her father.


    "Mom..." Bella¡¯s gentle tone pulled Natalie out of her fright, her eyes no longer shaking as she looked at her daughter.


    "From now on, you will stay with me in the capital. Don¡¯t worry about my evil father anymore. I will help you file for divorce from him..." Bella continued.


    Natalie was surprised to hear that. Instantly, she felt like the chains that shackled her heart were breaking. She was so happy to hear that she finally had a future, the opportunity to heal, and a family who would care for and love her.

 Chapter 300: Mother And Daughter Heartbreaking Moment (3)

    "Mom, please stop crying. You look ugly with those tears," Bella chuckled when she saw her mother nod while wiping the tears from her cheeks.


    "Alright, alright. I¡¯ll stop," Natalie said, her slight smile resembling a grin. "But only if you promise to tell me everything about your son and husband..."


    "Sure, Mom. You can ask me anything. I will answer you." Bella was excited to share about her life recently.


    Natalie fell silent for a moment. Numerous questions suddenly flooded her mind. However, she wanted to know most about when her daughter remarried and who her husband was.


    She looked at her daughter lovingly, asking, "Bella, when did you remarry? And who is the lucky man who finally won your heart again?"


    "Mom, I¡¯ve only been married once, and it was to the same person," Bella said, smiling as she saw her mother¡¯s eyes widen in shock. Before her mother could respond, Bella continued, "I¡¯m still married to Tristan Sinclair, and our son Dax is our child."


    It took Natalie a few more seconds to understand Bella¡¯s words. She was utterly surprised to learn that her daughter was still Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife.


    However, her mind refused to believe it because what had happened in the past was confirmed¡ªthey were divorced. Because Tristan decided to divorce Bella, the Sinclair Group severed ties with the Donovan Group.


    Natalie vividly remembered her ex-in-law, the arrogant Jessica Sinclair, calling to boast about her son¡¯s divorce and ousting Bella from the Sinclair family. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that time, Natalie felt like she was living in hell. Her husband, Lucas, became more violent toward her. Every night, when he returned home drunk, he would torture her.


    She endured the suffering for several months until, finally, Lucas started to calm down and leave her alone¡ªeven though the torture hadn¡¯t really ended.


    ¡¯But why now does Bella claim she is still married to Tristan?¡¯


    Natalie narrowed her eyes, looking at Bella and trying to see through her daughter¡¯s eyes if what she said was real.


    Or if she was imagining things now that her death was near.


    After a few more seconds, Natalie finally expressed her thoughts.


    "Is this the effect of my third-stage cancer?" Natalie asked. However, she felt strange hearing her own words. It sounded scary.


    "Huh!? What do you mean, Mom?" Hearing her mother¡¯s words, Bella began to feel afraid. Her worry deepened when she saw her mother¡¯s expression, which looked as frightened as before.


    "I mean, when death approaches, God will give humans a blessing to let them hear something they want to hear or foresee the future that normal humans can¡¯t," Natalie said seriously.


    "It¡¯s like, I really want to hear that your marriage with Tristan is still fine, and now I hear it. You must understand what I mean, right?" Natalie ended her words with mixed emotions.


    Now, she looked at her daughter, waiting for her to say something. However, she narrowed her eyes when she saw Bella stifling a laugh.


    "Pft!" Bella tried to hold back her laughter when she heard her mother¡¯s words.


    ¡¯Gosh, Mother! How could you have a wild thought like that!?¡¯


    "Why do you laugh, Bella?"


    After trying to suppress her laugh, Bella cleared her throat a few times before answering her mother.


    "No, Mom. You¡¯re mistaken. You are not dying now. And you won¡¯t get any privilege from God either, as you said before."


    Natalie frowned.


    "Really? So, what you said is true? You are still married to Tristan Sinclair?" Natalie blinked several times as her heart quickened, her sudden excitement becoming more apparent.


    "Yes, yes, I¡¯m still married to Tristan Sinclair. OK, Mom, I won¡¯t tell you how we got back together. It¡¯s a long story. But I promise you I will tell you later. For now, you only need to focus on your health and know that Tristan and I live happily in the capital with my son, Daxton, and Grandpa."


    Natalie¡¯s smile instantly bloomed, and her eyes were blurry. This time, she cried not because she was so sad about her miserable life but because she was too happy to hear that Bella was indeed still married to Tristan Sinclair.


    At this moment, she didn¡¯t want to hear anything else but this: her daughter was still happy with her life. That¡¯s the important thing for now.


    "Bella, my daughter, you will never know how happy I am to hear that you are still married to Tristan and have a son." She paused to let her happy tears roll down her cheeks before continuing, "Now, I feel I can die in peace¡ª"


    "Oh, please, Mother, stop saying those words! You won¡¯t die now. You will live a hundred years to accompany me. So stop saying those jinxed words. Huh!?"


    "Hahaha, OK, OK, I will," Natalie wiped her tears while grinning.


    ****


    While Bella chatted with her mother in another room near Natalie¡¯s VIP room, Dylan and Bryan sat at the dining table, intensely facing a laptop screen.


    Dylan and Bryan stared at their Boss in the capital, who looked stressed while venting his frustration to them.


    They had been on a video call for almost two hours, and their Boss¡¯s aura was still the same. He looked miserable, his expression dark, as if a dark cloud hung over him.


    "B-Boss, don¡¯t be angry. Your wife hasn¡¯t forgotten you. She¡¯s only too busy with her mother and doesn¡¯t have time to contact you," Dylan tried to persuade Tristan.


    "Yes, Boss. I¡¯m confident your wife will call you in a minute..." Bryan chimed in.


    Dylan and Bryan repeatedly repeated those words to calm their Boss¡¯s nerves. However, their efforts seemed futile.


    Tristan frowned, looking at Bryan and Dylan in return. His gaze was scary as if he wanted to send them straight into their coffin. They both gulped, waiting for him to say something.


    "It¡¯s almost ten, and my wife hasn¡¯t contacted me yet. That¡¯s not like her. At least not lately." Tristan sighed deeply. "Can you guys go to her mother¡¯s room and check whether she¡¯s alright?"


    He¡¯d been waiting for Bella to call or text him, but she hadn¡¯t. She hadn¡¯t even read the text he sent her since they arrived in East City.


    This worried him; something might have happened to her. If it weren¡¯t for Dax, he might have flown to meet her and be by her side by now.

 Chapter 301: They Found Her?

    "Sir, maybe, just maybe, your wife is already asleep with her mother? Because they are both too exhausted from talking?" Dylan tried again.


    "Boss, it¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling. But it would be impolite for us to enter Young Madam and her mother¡¯s room," Bryan said with concern.


    Tristan shrugged. What Bryan said was indeed true.


    Just before Tristan could say something, his cell phone rang. A spring-like smile instantly graced his face when he saw the caller¡¯s name on his phone screen.


    "All right, you guys take a rest. My wife is calling me now!" Tristan immediately turned off his laptop and picked up the phone.


    ****


    Next day.


    Lucas Donovan looked at the food in front of him, annoyed. He had lost his appetite since yesterday and felt that everything he ate tasted like rubbish.


    It had been almost 24 hours since Natalie left the house, but the people looking for her hadn¡¯t given him any report. This stresses him a lot. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Their efforts seemed in vain. Even though he had his people check the places Natalie often visited, they found no trace of her there, even the house of a friend of Natalie¡¯s that he knew was being watched.


    It was difficult for him to understand how a woman like Natalie could escape from him for this long. How strange!


    ¡¯Where did she go? Why did she disappear so quickly? Did she run away to another city? No, impossible, she didn¡¯t have a penny!¡¯ Lucas muttered, annoyed.


    Lucas slowly glanced at his son Henry, who struggled to finish breakfast.


    "Did you manage to contact your mother?" Lucas asked coldly.


    Henry stopped and looked at his father when he was just about to take a bite of his food. He shook his head.


    "No, Dad. Since yesterday, I¡¯ve been trying almost every hour, but Mom¡¯s cell phone is still inactive. Even the SMS I sent to her wasn¡¯t delivered," Henry explained, concerned.


    "How about the hacker you asked to track your mother? Did he find anything?"


    Once more, Henry shook his head.


    "No. He found nothing," Henry shrugged, annoyed that his mother had run away from home and made his father vent his anger on him since last night.


    Grinding his teeth in frustration, Lucas narrowed his eyes at Henry.


    "D-Dad, I, I will continue to search for Mom today," Henry hurriedly said, afraid his father would scold him again. "I guess I need to visit my Aunt Emma¡¯s house. Maybe Aunty knows where Mom is."


    Lucas shook his head. "You don¡¯t have to do that. Your aunt is in the capital visiting your grandfather."


    "Dad, why do I suspect Mom still went to Auntie¡¯s house even though Auntie isn¡¯t there?" Henry¡¯s words were enough to make Lucas¡¯s expression slowly change.


    "Brilliant! You are brilliant, Henry. Your mother doesn¡¯t have money, and her only option is to visit your aunt¡¯s house now. I will make a call," Lucas said, wiping his mouth and preparing to leave the dining room, but Henry stopped him.


    "No, Dad, don¡¯t make a call." Henry saw his father¡¯s expression soften, which eased his worries. His father wouldn¡¯t scold him now. "If you call, they will definitely lie. I¡¯ll go there; they can¡¯t lie to me if I appear there, right?" he continued.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right. Alright, you can go now. If you find her, call me immediately." Lucas urged Henry to go.


    If Henry confirmed that Natalie was there, Lucas would visit Emma¡¯s house and bring the useless woman back home. How dare she cause him to worry and stress like this?


    "Yes, Dad!" Henry stood up from his seat, but before leaving the dining room, a male servant rushed into it. He was holding a cell phone.


    "Master, Master, your phone rang..." He slightly bowed, and his hand moved forward to give Lucas the cell phone.


    When Lucas saw the caller¡¯s name, he knew it was his people who were looking for Natalie across the city. He immediately picked up the phone, curious to hear the result.


    "You found her?" Lucas Donovan asked. Hearing the man¡¯s explanation from the other end, he motioned to Henry to stop before he said, "OK, stay there. I¡¯ll be there soon." He ended the call.


    "Father, you found Mom?" Henry walked toward his father; he couldn¡¯t hide his happy smile upon hearing the good news.


    "My people just saw your aunt Emma leaving S International Hospital," Lucas said as he quickly walked towards the main entrance. "They tried to check your mother¡¯s name in the records, but her data is restricted, so I can¡¯t tell whether she was there. I will go there to check."


    Henry¡¯s smile bloomed as he followed his father. "I¡¯m pretty sure my mom is there because Aunty suddenly returned from the capital and visited the hospital."


    "Yes. Your mother is probably there," Lucas sighed deeply before continuing. "No wonder I couldn¡¯t find her; she visited our enemy hospital. She must have deliberately gone to S International Hospital to piss me off!"


    "Dad, should I go with you?"


    "No. You stay at home," Lucas stopped before entering his car and turned to see his son. "When will your cast be removed?"


    "Two weeks from now."


    Lucas Donovan didn¡¯t say anything; he simply nodded and got into his car.


    Later,


    He immediately instructed the driver to hurry to the hospital. He couldn¡¯t let that woman disappear again.


    His sister Emma might help Natalie escape this time, and it would be difficult for him to find her if that happened.


    After a few minutes, the car stopped at the main entrance of S International Hospital.


    Lucas saw his people approaching his car. He immediately stepped out and, while fixing his suit, asked the man who stood a few steps before him.


    "Did you find out my wife¡¯s room number!?"


    "Apologies, Master. As I said before, we can¡¯t find out the details because we are not Madam¡¯s family," the man said while following Lucas Donovan, who rushed into the building.


    Lucas Donovan snorted in annoyance at this useless person.


    "You should have pretended to be Henry! You are such an idiot!" Lucas stepped faster toward the information desk.

 Chapter 302: Lucas Donovan Is Furious!

    The hospital staff sitting behind the reception desk, with short black hair and glasses, greeted Lucas Donovan in a friendly manner.


    "Good morning, sir. How may I help you?"


    "Morning. I need to trouble you to check something for me."


    "Yes, please," the staff answered.


    "I just landed in this city and received a call that my wife is being treated in this hospital. But I don¡¯t know her room number. Can you help me check it?" Lucas asked in a friendly voice, followed by a polite smile.


    "Sure, sir..." The hospital staff returned Lucas¡¯ friendly smile as she typed something on the keyboard, her eyes fixed on the computer screen before her. She asked, "Sir, may I know your wife¡¯s name?"


    "Natalie Wright¡ª"


    The hospital staff typed Natalie¡¯s name, but then her expression changed. She seemed confused, as there was no Natalie Wright in the system.


    She looked at Lucas Donovan and said, "Sir, can you spell your wife¡¯s name again? I might have typed it wrong because I can¡¯t find her name."


    The result was still the same when she typed after hearing Lucas Donovan spell Natalie¡¯s name.


    ¡¯Did this man come to the wrong hospital?¡¯ she wondered.


    "Is there a problem?" Lucas Donovan asked when he saw the hospital staff¡¯s confused expression and didn¡¯t say anything; it seemed she was having difficulty finding something.


    "Sir, there¡¯s no patient with the name Natalie Wright."


    "Are you sure? My wife texted me; she said she was admitted to this hospital. But when I called her back, her phone was inactive," Lucas Donovan said, pretending to be worried. Then, he leaned closer to the man beside him. "Are you sure my wife is here?" he whispered. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Master, Ms. Wright is admitted to the VIP facility," the man whispered back.


    Lucas was surprised to hear that. How could Natalie get VIP access in this hospital? Did she know someone here?


    After a few more seconds of trying to remember if his wife knew anyone close enough for them to help her, he couldn¡¯t think of anyone except the Sinclair family. But it¡¯s unlikely that Natalie would receive any special treatment from them, right?


    He set aside his curiosity and refocused on the hospital staff.


    "Miss, can you check your VIP patient? My wife might be admitted there," Lucas asked again.


    The staff nodded at him but said nothing. Then, she looked at her monitor and typed Natalie¡¯s name. It didn¡¯t take long; what she saw surprised her. She saw the name Natalie Wright, but the information about her was still limited.


    She couldn¡¯t access the patient¡¯s data and room number. She only knew Natalie Wright had been admitted to their hospital and that the person¡¯s status was already checked out.


    "Sir, your wife was admitted to our hospital as a VIP patient, but she checked out an hour ago."


    Lucas Donovan¡¯s shoulders dropped at hearing that.


    ¡¯That bitch checked out!? Did she know I found her?¡¯ He left the hospital in anger.


    ***


    Meanwhile, in a private jet and at the exact moment when Lucas Donovan was told his wife had already left the hospital,


    Bella sipped her warm latte while looking at her mother sitting across from her.


    Her mother seemed so relaxed after they left East City; she was no longer as scared as when they left the hospital early this morning.


    Seeing her mother sleeping soundly, Bella felt at ease. At least her mother was safe now, and she would no longer have to deal with her evil husband.


    Speaking about her father, Bella received information from a Sentinel Network member whom she assigned to follow her father before their boarding.


    The person told her that her father was making a scene at the hospital. And because they had already checked out, her father angrily headed to Aunt Emma¡¯s house.


    Now, Bella is worried about her aunt. She hoped that Aunt Emma could overcome her father¡¯s anger.


    Sigh!


    Just before Bella decided to rest her eyes before landing, she suddenly heard her mother calling her name. She opened her eyes and met her mother¡¯s worried gaze.


    Bella adjusted her seat and asked, "Why do you look worried again, Mom? I promised you, from now on, my evil father will have no chance to hurt you. Instead, I will make sure he suffers until the end of his life."


    She lost respect for her father when she learned he arranged her marriage to an old man like Bradley Caville. Since then, she has vowed to cut ties with him.


    "So, please, no need to fear him any longer!" Bella continued.


    Natalie laughed a little at her daughter¡¯s words, then shook her head slowly.


    "Bella, I¡¯m not worried about that bastard. But I¡¯m worried about your mother-in-law. Has your relationship improved with her?"


    Since last night, Natalie has wanted to ask Bella about this matter, but she was too tired; she couldn¡¯t hold back her sleepiness. For the first time, she slept soundly without any fear of her husband.


    When they woke up this morning, they didn¡¯t have time to chat because Bella had arranged their checkout faster than she knew.


    "Don¡¯t worry about that woman, Mom. Jessica Sinclair won¡¯t be able to bother me this time."


    "What do you mean, Bella?"


    "My grudge against them is still there, Mom. So, since I returned to this country, Jessica and William Sinclair haven¡¯t seen me, nor have they seen my son. Well, I won¡¯t give them a chance to meet Dax. Not anytime sooner..." Bella said, faintly smiling as she saw her mother gasping.


    Natalie was surprised to hear that Jessica and William Sinclair had not entirely accepted her daughter despite Bella finally giving birth to Sinclair¡¯s heirs.


    "But, Bella, it would be troublesome if I lived with you. They might see me at your house if you still live in the same complex as your in-laws, right?"


    "No, Mom. We live in different places. In safe places, even my in-laws don¡¯t have access to our location," Bella explained.


    Hearing Bella¡¯s explanation, Natalie immediately felt relieved. Deep inside, she didn¡¯t want her daughter to experience the same treatment she had before from her in-laws.


    Natalie Wright also holds a grudge toward Jessica Sinclair. She will never forget how that woman humiliated her five years ago when Bella and Tristan separated.

 Chapter 303: Meeting Mother-In-Law

    Bella continued, "Mom, our house is in a private area with stunning scenery and right next to Grandpa¡¯s house."


    "Oh, you stay side by side with your Grandpa?" Natalie was surprised to hear that.


    "Yes. That¡¯s why Grandpa decided to move to the capital: he wants to play with Dax every day. And the funny thing is that Grandpa Lewis has lived with us since we moved into that house. So, you won¡¯t feel lonely living with us, Mom."


    Natalie nodded, smiling happily. She couldn¡¯t wait to meet Tristan, her grandson, and her father-in-law, even though she felt embarrassed now because she had decided to divorce Lucas.


    Her encounter with Isaac Donovan last time in the hospital was awful. Natalie wanted to apologize to the old man because she could no longer live with his son, Lucas.


    ***


    Not long after, the plane finally landed at a private airport.


    Bella¡¯s smile widened as she stepped off the plane and spotted her husband waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs. He looked as handsome as ever, causing her heart to tremble. She missed him so much.


    Just as Bella wanted to speed up her steps to meet him, her mother caught her hand.


    "Bella, wait."


    She halted and glanced at her mother. "Yes, Mom?"


    "Heavens! That¡¯s Tristan Sinclair?" Natalie whispered in a trembling voice. It was hard for her to believe this young man was looking at her daughter with such a loving gaze. "He came to pick you up?" she continued.


    Bella smiled at her mother before saying, "Hmm, he is. Let¡¯s hurry, Mom. He needs to greet you properly¡ª" She walked ahead down the plane stairs to warn Tristan.


    Instantly, Natalie¡¯s heart tightened when she heard that the man was Tristan. Even though this man was once her son-in-law, they never chatted like family.


    Natalie always heard from Noora, who often updated her about Bella¡¯s condition while they lived with the Sinclair family. Noora mentioned that Tristan was rarely seen at home and was always too busy to talk to anyone.


    However, he is now willing to pick them up at the airport. Natalie is impressed by his change in attitude.


    Bella quickened her pace and threw herself into Tristan¡¯s embrace. His warmth and familiar fragrance were enough to make a strange feeling emerge in her heart, a sense of solid longing even though they had only been apart for a night.


    "I miss you, Tristan Sinclair!" Bella tightens her hand over his waist.


    "I miss you more than you know, Bella, my wife. Since last night, I wanted to speed up time so you would appear before me faster."


    Tristan¡¯s hoarse voice made Bella smile.


    "My wife, Bella, I don¡¯t want to let you go like this again. In the future, Dax and I will follow you wherever you go¡ªthe same with me. If I go somewhere, you and Dax have to follow me," Tristan said.


    Having just separated from her the previous night, he was consumed with worry about losing her forever. It seemed silly, but that¡¯s how he felt. He had a terrible night¡¯s sleep.


    "Hmm, that sounds good, Hubby!" Bella smiled widely. She felt like they were in their honeymoon phase; they couldn¡¯t be apart even for a few hours. However, her smile faded when she remembered her son, Dax.


    She immediately released her hug and looked at him curiously. "Tristan, you didn¡¯t bring Dax?"


    Tristan chuckled, seeing her annoyance. "I wanted to bring him. But Grandpa said Dax shouldn¡¯t come because I needed to greet your mother first. He was worried Dax would be curious about what happened with you and your parents¡ª"


    Bella nodded, understanding what her Grandpa said. Just as she was about to say something, Tristan had already left her side and walked toward her mother. She could only chuckle as she watched them awkwardly talk.


    "Mother, it¡¯s an honor to see you again," Tristan smiled politely as he extended his hand for a handshake. When Natalie accepted his hand, he continued, "I deeply apologize for what I¡¯ve done to your daughter in the past, mam¡ª"


    Natalie and Bella gasped at his words.


    Before Natalie could respond, Tristan continued, "Mother, I promise you, I will never make any mistakes again. If you see me hurt your daughter, you can scold me or beat me."


    "Oh, my son-in-law," Natalie wanted to cry. She was so happy to hear how sweet and sincere her son-in-law was. "It¡¯s not necessary to say those words. That¡¯s all in the past," she said.


    Natalie tapped Tristan¡¯s hand gently before continuing, "Thank you, Tristan. I appreciate your promise. And thank you for loving my daughter."


    "No, Mother. I¡¯m the one who feels so lucky. Bella loves me, and it is a blessing for me to become her husband."


    Bella almost choked hearing his words.


    ¡¯Gosh! Mr. Sinclair, how dare you use your honey traps on my mother? How shameless.¡¯


    Bella shook her head and let them chat. Her gaze fell on Sam, who had just gotten off the plane and looked anxious as if he had something he wanted to tell her. She immediately approached Sam and pulled him away from Tristan and her mother.


    "Sam, what¡¯s wrong? Why do you look restless?"


    "Boss, I just received news from the office that someone left a package for me. When checked, it was a document containing evidence to send Laura Kiels to prison."


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s eyes widened. She was utterly happy to hear that there was evidence to convict that bitch, Laura Kiels.


    "Someone? Who helped us? Did you know the sender?" Bella asked, curious about the good person who sent the evidence to help them. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "There¡¯s no name. And no one saw the person when he placed the envelope on the receptionist¡¯s desk. I already asked someone to check the CCTV footage but have not yet received any info."


    "Sam, you can return to the office now. You must give that evidence to our lawyer to process it with the police. I don¡¯t want that bitch Laura Kiels to escape from her crime¡ª"

 Chapter 304: The Overwhelming Emotions When Meeting Dax

    When Tristan¡¯s car entered their front yard, Bella saw her son Dax with his two grandfathers standing near the main door. From the look on their faces, It¡¯s obvious they are waiting for them to arrive.


    Bella was excited to meet her son earlier than she had imagined yesterday. She turned to look at her mother sitting beside her, and she was surprised to see how tense her mother looked.


    A faint smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips as she gently moved her hand toward her mother¡¯s tightly cupped hand on her thigh.


    Just before Bella could say something, when her hand touched her mother¡¯s, Bella was surprised to feel how cold her mother¡¯s hands were, as if she were squeezing an ice cube.


    "Mom, Mom¡­" Bella gently called, with her softest voice.


    Natalie turned quickly to see her daughter, and there was tension in her eyes.


    Bella smiled gently at her mother. "Don¡¯t be nervous, Mom. My son will know what you¡¯re thinking if your expression is like that: scared. He might think you¡¯re afraid to meet him."


    Natalie¡¯s expression became more tense, a mix of joy and apprehension.


    Right now, she felt a whirlwind of emotions, from the excitement of meeting her grandson to the unease of facing her father-in-law, all mingled with a deep sense of humiliation. She sighed a few times to try to calm herself but failed.


    "I will try not to. Don¡¯t worry," Natalie replied to Bella with a faint smile.


    "OK, Mom. Let¡¯s go meet your grandson and the others." Bella immediately got out of the car. After opening the door for her mother, she ran to hug her son. She missed him so much.


    After feeling satisfied hugging and kissing her chubby son on the cheek, Bella pulled her face away from him. Seeing how red his cheek was, she stifled a laugh, knowing her adorable son was shy.


    Bella knew her son couldn¡¯t stand being treated like a child in front of others. However, she ignored the protests in his eyes. She gently rubbed his reddened cheek. "Baby Dax, do you miss Mommy?"


    Dax leaned closer, whispering to his mother, "Hmm, I miss you, Mom. But can you introduce me to the elder woman behind you?"


    Instantly, Bella flinched in surprise. How could she forget about her mother? She immediately stood up straight and took Dax¡¯s hand. She turned to see her mother with a smile.


    "Mom, the handsome little man before you is your grandson. His name is Daxton Donovan Sinclair, but you may call him Dax."


    Then Bella turned to Dax. She introduced him to her mother. "Baby, this is my mother, your Grandma; you can call her Great-grandma or Granny; you can decide later..."


    For a slight moment, Dax was surprised to hear that. He knew a family would visit them but didn¡¯t think it was his grandmother.


    Dax often heard from his mother, although not clearly. Still, he understood that his mother¡¯s relationship with her parents was not harmonious.


    ¡¯Has Mother reconciled with her parents?¡¯ Dax asked himself before he approached the older woman in front of him, who was crying when she saw him.


    "Grandma, it¡¯s nice to meet you. I¡¯m Daxton. I¡¯m almost five years old," he said, reaching out his hand towards his grandmother, who was now covering her mouth with her hand, looking shocked to see him.


    Dax didn¡¯t know how to react, but he tried to act calmly while smiling at his grandmother.


    "Oh, my Da-Daxton," Natalie finally controlled her emotions, but her voice trembled as she called her grandson¡¯s name. She felt her heart warm and swell. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She bent slightly to shake her little grandson¡¯s tiny hand. Overwhelmed with happiness, she couldn¡¯t help but pull the little boy into her embrace. Feeling his soft, chubby body made her heart swell even more.


    "My little Dax, Granny is so lucky to meet you. You are such a sweet and handsome boy," Natalie continued while tightening her embrace. She continued to express how happy she was to meet him finally.


    Before long,


    Bella saw Dax look uneasy as if asking her for help with his gaze. She immediately smiled and approached her mother.


    "All right, Mom, let¡¯s continue to speak inside the house first. And you also need to greet your father-in-law, right, Mom?" Bella teased her panicking mother.


    As expected, Natalie instantly looked tense again. She let go of her tight embrace. Then, she looked at Isaac Donovan and Lewis Sinclair, standing near the entrance, looking in their direction.


    ***


    After a short greeting, everyone entered the house and continued to chat in the living room.


    While Natalie Wright chatted with Isaac Donovan and Lewis Sinclair, Bella cuddled her son. She spoke with Tristan at the end of the sofa. She only wanted to hug her son, not wanting to let him go.


    After a few more minutes,


    Dax finally felt uneasy. He sighed deeply as he looked up at his mother. "Mommy, I think it¡¯s time for you to release me¡ª"


    "No, Baby! Let me hug you for a few more minutes. I still miss you," Bella answered while tightening her hug.


    Sitting beside Bella, Tristan could only chuckle, seeing his wife wanting to squeeze their son like Dax was her teddy bear.


    Dax helplessly sighed deeply. He looked at his father for help, but his father seemed to ignore him.


    "Mommy, didn¡¯t you say you want to show my granny her place to stay?"


    "Oh, you¡¯re right!" Bella snapped when she heard that. She immediately sat up straight and looked in her mother¡¯s direction.


    Bella was surprised to see her mother listening closely to the two grandpas talking. Judging from her mother¡¯s expression, she could guess that her mother was clearly holding back tears.


    Gosh!


    Bella was speechless and amused at what her grandpa said to her mother.


    After listening for a few more seconds, she worried her mother might cry.


    It seemed she needed to take action to help her mother escape from the two grandpas.


    Sighing deeply, she looked at her husband.


    "Tristan¡ª"

 Chapter 305: Natalie’s Reasons Why She Stayed in Her Toxic Marriage

    "Yes, dear?"


    "I need to give my mom a house tour. Can you play with Dax so I can be with mom alone?"


    Knowing his plan to distract his mother had worked, Dax¡¯s smile widened, but he relaxed for only a second, worrying his mother might squeeze him again.


    Then, Dax looked at his father, waiting for his reaction. As if sending a warning to his father, "Dare to refuse, and I will take my revenge, Dad¡ª"


    Tristan smiled at Dax before responding to Bella, "Sure, dear. You can go now." He rubbed her cheek lovingly before continuing, "But don¡¯t take too long, darling. Don¡¯t forget I also miss my wife." His eyes looked at her warmly.


    Bella rolled her eyes when she saw his sultry gaze, like a fire burning in them.


    She immediately stood and approached her mother and the others.


    ****


    Bella smiled at the two older men before her, who were frowning at her.


    "Stop scaring my mother with your past stories and recent news. Can¡¯t you see it? My mother is almost crying." Bella said it in a casual tone. Still, the two elders looked surprised to hear that.


    They both turned their gaze, looking at Natalie. They felt guilty when they noticed her eyes were blurry and realized how insensitive they had been. She was indeed almost crying.


    "Sorry, Natalie darling," Isaac said, stroking his mustache. He felt terrible for reminding his daughter-in-law of his useless son. Even though Lucas is his own son, he supports Natalie¡¯s plan to divorce him.


    "Ugh, dear Natalie, I¡¯m really sorry. This old man might¡¯ve said too much," Lewis chimed in.


    Natalie was speechless. She felt amused looking at the two older men before her who felt guilty.


    "Hahaha, Father, Uncle Lewis, I¡¯m fine¡ª" Natalie said awkwardly before turning her gaze to Bella.


    "All right, Mom, let¡¯s go check your place to stay," Bella said while holding her mother¡¯s hand. "Grandpa, please excuse us¡ª"


    ***


    After speaking with Tristan last night and requesting a place for her mother, Bella was pleased to hear that he had provided her mother with a small house at the back of their property.


    Tristan had asked his team to quickly clean and rearrange the furniture in the house so her mother could stay there starting today. She was grateful that the house was ready a few hours ago, just before their plane landed.


    Bella and Natalie walked side by side towards the back wing of the main house. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As they approached the small gray stone house, decorated with many beautiful flowers in the yard and a lake just a few meters away offering views of the dense forest in the distance, Natalie couldn¡¯t help but be enchanted by its charm.


    "Oh dear Bella, why do I feel like I just landed in heaven now? This place is incredibly wonderful. It is not only beautiful, but it also feels serene. I feel like I¡¯m in the middle of the forest." Natalie was so happy she could finally spend the rest of her life in this stunning place.


    Bella, who was about to open the house door, stopped and looked at her mother.


    Her smile widened before saying, "Yes, Mom, this place is insanely beautiful. That¡¯s why we chose to live here. It¡¯s far from the hustle and bustle of the city, but we only need a few minutes to drive to the city center and all its perks."


    Natalie followed Bella into the house.


    "Thank you, my daughter, for allowing me to stay with you and your family in this place." Natalie couldn¡¯t stop expressing her gratitude. She felt blessed because her daughter and son-in-law provided her with privacy in this beautiful little house.


    "Mom, it¡¯s my duty to repay you," Bella said casually, but her words were enough to make Natalie¡¯s eyes blur with tears; she felt touched to hear that.


    Bella failed to notice her mother¡¯s sadness as she sat on the sofa. She watched her mother pacing around the not-so-large family room and the compact modern kitchen at the end of the room, which overlooked the lake.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long before Bella was taken aback by her mother¡¯s sudden gloomy expression.


    She sighed deeply and said, "Oh, please, Mom, stop crying, could you? You need to smile now; no more sadness, right?"


    While trying to wipe the tears from her cheek, Natalie said, "My daughter, I feel ashamed and regret my actions in the past. And now, hearing that you have forgiven me even though I don¡¯t deserve it makes me feel even more ashamed."


    "You are wrong, Mom. You did a great job raising and protecting me despite the hardship you had to endure."


    "But, daughter¡ª" Natalie lost her words and whimpered silently.


    "I¡¯m a mother now, too, so I understand how difficult it was for you to raise me when my father was biased towards my brother Henry. I know you only followed my father to protect me from his anger."


    Natalie¡¯s tears filled her eyes as she listened to her daughter¡¯s words, realizing that not everything she believed was true.


    When Bella started her teenage years, Natalie found it more difficult and hazardous to defend Bella when Lucas took out his anger on his own daughter.


    Natalie still feels that she failed as Bella¡¯s mother. She was too afraid of Lucas, who constantly threatened to kick Bella out of the Donovan family if she sided with Bella or asked for a divorce. She stayed with Lucas because she didn¡¯t want Bella¡¯s life to be miserable if her father disowned her.


    "Thank you, my daughter," Natalie Wright said softly, wiping the remaining tears from her cheeks.


    "Oh yes, I forgot to mention," Bella tried to divert the gloomy conversation. She didn¡¯t want to see her mother cry again. "Mom, this house has two bedrooms. So, I asked Aunty Noora to live with you. But if you object¡ª"


    "No. No. I¡¯m glad to hear that Noora will stay with me. Better to have someone to talk with than not, right!?" Natalie¡¯s smile bloomed; she was genuinely happy to know that.


    "Perfect then..." Bella felt relieved. She didn¡¯t want her mother to feel lonely in this new place.

 Chapter 306: I Cannot Wait Any Longer (1) *

    Before long, Noora finally joined them. She hastily entered the house, her sad expression becoming obvious when she saw Natalie Wright sobbing in the kitchen.


    Since yesterday, when Bella suddenly flew to East City, Noora had suspected something might have happened to Bella¡¯s parents. She wanted to call Bella to ask but refrained, recalling that Bella seemed to avoid talking about it. So she waited.


    This morning, Bella finally called and told her what had happened in East City.


    Noora was shocked to learn how terrible the situation was. Knowing that Lucas Donovan had beaten Natalie Wright was painful enough, but learning that he hit his wife when his wife was terribly sick, in stage three of cancer, was too hard for Noora to bear.


    It was too painful. She feels like she wanted to fly to East City solely to whack that evil Lucas Donovan.


    Now, Noora was increasingly worried about Natalie¡¯s condition. She walked quickly into the kitchen, approaching Natalie Wright and ignoring Bella sitting in the living room.


    "Oh my God, madam, you¡¯re finally here," said Noora with teary eyes as she quickened her steps. "I¡¯m sorry, but only now could I come to welcome you. I was busy helping the chef prepare lunch in the kitchen."


    "Noora," Natalie also couldn¡¯t hold back her sadness, finally meeting Noora after so many years.


    When Bella and Tristan married in the past, Natalie insisted on sending Noora to accompany Bella into the Sinclair family despite Jessica Sinclair forbidding it. She fought with Jessica, and finally, that woman agreed to let her daughter¡¯s maid enter the Sinclair family.


    "Thank you, Noora, for always helping Bella and Dax. I will never forget your kindness to them." Natalie sincerely expressed her feelings. "I will now call you my sister; you are my family now, Noora."


    "Oh, ma¡¯am, please don¡¯t say that. It was my responsibility to help young Miss and young Master Dax."


    Bella felt emotional seeing her mother cry again. She didn¡¯t stay there for too long but excused herself when she received a text message from Tristan in the main house asking her to return immediately.


    ***


    Later, Bella arrived at the main house. Before heading to the second floor, she met Geoffrey, who updated her on their lunch preparations. He also informed Bella that Dax was now in his computer room, attending a computer lesson.


    They talked for a few more moments before Bella rushed to the master bedroom to meet her demanding hubby.


    Arriving on the second floor, Bella smiled when she saw Tristan pacing back and forth in the living room, near the glass window, staring at his cellphone screen as if waiting for something.


    She opened her mouth, wanting to call him, but her words stopped on the tip of her tongue when she faintly heard Tristan say, "Why hasn¡¯t my wife replied to my text? Did she forget about me again? For real?"


    Even though she tried to hold it in, a soft chuckle still escaped her lips.


    Bella¡¯s small laugh surprised Tristan. His steps suddenly stopped, and he turned to look at the stairs. His previously worried and sad expression suddenly changed, like a warm spring coming after a long and cold winter.


    "Darling! You finally showed up!" Tristan said worriedly while taking wide steps toward her. "Why were you staying there so long?" S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before Bella could respond, his hands were on her waist, pulling her into his warm embrace. She could feel Tristan¡¯s breath on her neck, causing her body to tense.


    When his soft, warm lips touched the skin of her neck, she felt her blood rush.


    "Tristan, stop¡ª" Bella caught his hand as it slipped under her blouse. "We¡¯re in the open. Dax could show up at any moment¡ª"


    "He¡¯s taking computer lessons. He won¡¯t show up here¡ª" Tristan answered hastily, pulling his head away from her neck and cupping her tiny face with his hands, and a grin slowly appeared on his lips. "My love, I really miss you. I want to kiss you now!"


    "But¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s lips covered Bella¡¯s mouth before she could finish her sentence. She was surprised by his sudden intimacy. But she was helpless against his warm kiss, which made her mind and body betray her. She accepted his kiss with the same passion as his.


    The tip of his warm tongue captured every trace of sweetness in her mouth domineeringly as it seductively guided her stiff tongue to entangle with his.


    Instantly, every nerve in her arm tensed, and slowly, her hands rose and wrapped tightly around his neck.


    She didn¡¯t remember how long Tristan had been thrusting into her mouth; she could only hear her own moans a few times as she felt all her blood rushing to certain parts of her body, pumping faster through her heart and her veins.


    When she felt her chest unbearably hot from lack of oxygen and her legs felt weak, unable to hold her body upright, only then did Tristan finally stop his dominance over Bella¡¯s lips and pull his lips slightly away.


    With one hand, he pulled her body and gently pressed it into his to keep her from falling.


    "Breathe, my love," Tristan said hoarsely, breathlessly. "Breathe slowly¡ª" A smile framed his face, and he felt amused staring at her blushing face.


    Bella couldn¡¯t answer him. She could only lay her head on his chest, hiding her flushed face and trying to get her breathing back to normal. However, she suddenly felt her body lifted before she could steady her heartbeat.


    She was surprised, looking at Tristan carrying her in princess style, heading to their bedroom.


    "Tristan? I can walk¡ª"


    "Bella, my love, I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t wait any longer¡ª" he said, walking quickly towards their bedroom. "I don¡¯t care about our honeymoon. Let¡¯s do it now!" he said with boiling emotion in his heart and mind.


    Bella gaped upon hearing his words. This was not the first time he had acted like this, but somehow, this time, his eyes were different from usual; she could see something burning there, and his wishes to get very intimate with her were clearly visible, and it was unstoppable.


    Her light-gray eyes slightly narrowed, her lips breaking into a faint smile.


    ¡¯So, is this the time?¡¯ She tightened her arms around his neck.

 Chapter 307: I Cannot Wait Any Longer (2) **

    ¡¯So, this is the time?¡¯ Bella tightened her arms around his neck.


    "I don¡¯t mind. I feel the same way you do. To hell with your honeymoon plans! Why should we wait? We are married and love each other," she said confidently.


    Tristan¡¯s smile softened. He placed her on the soft bed, his eyes never leaving her beautiful, blushing face. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he started unbuttoning her blouse from the second button; the lower the button opened, the more exposed her skin became.


    He could never get enough of seeing her beautiful naked body like this, staring at her silently, satisfying his eyes.


    The room grew more tense. Their breath becomes more tense. No one spoke; they only looked at each other as if conversing through their loving gaze.


    Without Bella realizing it, Tristan undressed her clothes while keeping his eyes locked on hers; Bella¡¯s blouse and pants were now on the floor. All that was left was her lace maroon bra and underwear covering her smooth, clear, flawless body.


    "You look beautiful, Bella, my love. I cannot feel this way with any other woman but you. So, it¡¯s been too long¡ª" He satisfied his eyes, looking at her from head to toe with gladness and gratefulness.


    The feeling he thought had gone turned out always inside him. But it¡¯s only for Bella¡ªthe only woman who stays in his heart.


    Bella felt her cheeks warm.


    "Tr-Tristan, can you please cover me with the blanket? I feel cold," she said, biting her lower lip, embarrassed by his staring at her.


    "Hahaha. Oh dear, I was being selfish, but I can¡¯t help it. My wife is so cute." Tristan laughed out loud when he saw his wife covering her face with her palms.


    He took a blanket from the end of the bed and covered her body up to her neck.


    When he saw her finally not hiding her beautiful blushing face, he slowly stood by the bed, his gaze still on her.


    His hands slowly began to unbutton his black slim-fit shirt from his chest to the last button, revealing his firm and ridiculous perfect abs.


    Bella silently gulped, seeing his firm chest now exposed. She lowered her gaze to his perfect stomach, her mind becoming chaotic again, feeling an urge to touch him.


    Before she could calm her mind, her heartbeat felt like there was a storm there when she noticed the big bulge under his black boxers as he took off his pants. She turned her gaze away from his lower abdomen.


    "My Love, don¡¯t turn away your gaze from me," Tristan said. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She ignores him.


    However, Bella could not help but feel overexcited when he climbed onto the bed and joined her under the blanket. Her breath quickened, her body heat slowly rose, and her heartbeat resembled a war drum.


    "You look beautiful. I¡¯m sorry if I can¡¯t resist devouring you now, my love," he said, his head moving closer to hers.


    Bella gasped when she felt his hand touch her stomach and slowly rise to her breast. She looked at him, his face getting closer to hers. Her blood rushed as his warm breath brushed her face with every breath, and his lips covered her slightly open mouth.


    This time, the kiss felt even more passionate than their previous kiss. They could no longer hold back.


    Tristan devoured Bella¡¯s lips as gently as he could. And then he slowly thrust his tongue toward Bella¡¯s. The touch of his lips and tongue on the sensitive parts around her mouth and lips were overwhelming her. Her slight moans were soft and plenty, making Tristan kiss her and caress her lips and tongue even more deeply.


    His hand slowly moved toward Bella¡¯s back and gently removed her bra, and Bella¡¯s eyelashes fluttered.


    She opened her eyes and looked at Tristan, feeling embarrassed. This was the first time they had made out with the lights on, and she could see his face very clearly.


    "I love you¡ª" Tristan whispered.


    Before Bella could say anything, she felt her body stiffen again as his finger slowly moved and explored her breasts. His hand squeezing and massaging her breast gently. The sensation made her nipples hard and the skin around her breast warmer.


    She slowly closed her eyes while enjoying every time his hand gently brushed and twisted her hard nipples, trying hard and failing not to make any sounds.


    "Oh, My Love, your nipples are erect. Are you feeling what I¡¯m feeling now?"


    When he saw her close her eyes tightly, he smiled as he lowered his head and started kissing, licking, and sucking every inch of the skin on her breasts and nipples.


    Loader moans began to escape her lips, making Tristan even more excited; he intensely kissed and sucked her nipples and breast to make her feel overwhelming pleasure.


    "T-Tristan oooh... oooh¡­ Tristan, I¡­Tristan aaa... Uumhh¡ª" Was all that could escape Bella¡¯s lips every time he sucked on her breasts and nipples harder without losing his gentleness, moans becoming more frequent.


    "Darling Wife, you already damp down there..." he said seductively as he put his other hand around and inside her panties, starting to rub the most intimate part between her legs.


    And with every move from his hand on Bella¡¯s most intimate part, she moans even harder.


    Bella felt embarrassed, but she let him. She enjoyed every time she placed her finger on her bottom lip, teasing every nerve in his mind. As his fingers began to enter her most intimate part, her orgasm was inevitable. Every time he released hers, she felt her body arch and her blood rush.


    "Tristan... Please, I want you..." She shouted between her countless climaxes after he teased her for a few more minutes.


    She climaxes so many times only with his fingers, causing her to want more. She can no longer hold herself back; she wants Tristan to be one with her and enter her.


    But every time she asked him to put his little brother inside her, he held back. He continued to help her orgasm a few more times, just fucking her with his fingers and playing with her breasts.


    After a few minutes, she felt impatient.


    "Tristan, stop fingering me. I want you to fuck me!! I want that big thing under your boxers!" Bella said amidst her moans, as he was still fucking her with his fingers.


    She wanted more.


    "What did you say?" Tristan was shocked to hear her words. He slowly withdrew his fingers from hers and then looked at her eyes. He was amused, seeing her expression become sultrier than before. "Say it again?" and joy arose in him, hearing how naughty his wife was.


    Bella blinked several times when she saw him climb on her body, and his face was now an inch from hers.


    "Say it again. I want to hear you say earlier¡ª"


    She silently wetted her throat before saying, "Damn it! Tristan Sinclair... I want you to FUCK ME! With your hard dick, not with your fingers!"


    "As you wish, my beautiful wife¡ª" Tristan could no longer hold back his lust. He decided to end his stupid plan of waiting for their honeymoon before consuming her again.

 Chapter 308: I Cannot Wait Any Longer! (3) **

    Tristan removed the remaining cloth that was attached to his body and threw it on the floor.


    He no longer tried to tease her but entered her warm and wet intimate part after gently shifting her legs wide open.


    "Do I need to stop?" Tristan asked when he saw her brow furrow, even though he had only put half of his hard cock inside her.


    "N-No! Don¡¯t you dare!¡ª" she shouted in reflex as her eyes still rolled backward and her mouth continued open with a soft moaning sound on her every breath.


    He smiles.


    "Let me know if you feel hurt, darling." Tristan ensured that she enjoyed every moment of their first love-making after so many years.


    The room no longer felt cool but warm because of the love and lust mixed in the air. Their eyes locked into one another like their souls tangled again after such a long separation.


    Bella¡¯s sexy moans became louder and more frequent as his hips slowly pushed deeper, and his lips chased Bella¡¯s open mouth and locked it with gentle kisses. But his tongue explores roughly inside her mouth while his hand gently twists and squeezes her breast.


    His actions gave her much more sensual sensation from every sensitive nerve in her intimate part. And when he saw her body arching slightly, he started to move back and forth gently, trying to relax her.


    Tristan was impressed with how tight she was now as if they were making love for the first time.


    ¡¯Is she really having a normal birth to our son, Dax?¡¯ Tristan¡¯s mind wonders, which helps him stay hard for longer.


    A satisfied smile slowly emerged from his lips. "Darling, I will move faster¡ª"


    "Mmmmhhh," said Bella while trying to roll her eyes back as she managed to control herself from the incredible sensation coming from her intimate parts.


    But when she saw Tristan looking back at her, she closed her eyes. She realized she was too embarrassed to notice his strange position between her legs.


    Tristan¡¯s movements started to get faster and more profound, accompanied by a clapping sound every time his hips and Bella¡¯s touched as if glued together.


    Bella¡¯s moans became louder and more frequent, and when their bodies touched, the sound of flesh pressing together made the room thicker with the smell of sex.


    The heat grew as their bodies started to get wet with sweat.


    "T-Tristan oooh... oooh¡­Uum...ahhh¡­ahhh¡­I¡¯m coming, hubby, ahhhhh!!!"


    Her moans are even more intense and the loudest as her climax comes and peaks, causing Tristan¡¯s passion to burn even more as his cock also closes into his climax because Bella¡¯s lower lips twitches and grips his cock even more as she reaches her climax.


    He moved his hips even more, glued to Bella¡¯s hips with his free hand, playing with her breasts and nipples, squeezing them while looking at her beautiful face. His hip movements did not slow down but even increased.


    "Oo, Bella, my darling wife, how can you still be this tight? Are you sure you gave birth naturally to our son?" Said Tristan, trying to distract his mind so he could stay hard longer.


    Bella gave him¡ªWhat are you trying to fucking ask me in the middle of this, sir?¡ªkind of look.


    Tristan smiled as he slowed his movements and continued his teasing words, "Your lower lip is so tight, sucking in my little brother, and it makes me feel¡ªuh."


    Bella¡¯s hand covered Tristan¡¯s mouth tightly. She was too embarrassed to hear his following words.


    "Please do it faster, Tristan..." Bella said, glaring at him. She had her pleasure moment. But now, all that is left is a nameless pain on her thigh.


    She wanted this to end quickly because she no longer had the energy, and the overwhelming pleasure exhausted her, which was no longer the same as before. At this moment, she just wanted to lie down and sleep.


    Tristan no longer teased her; he increased his speed, causing her to moan even more loudly, a mix of pleasure and pain, with her eyes closed, trying to hold on.


    Witness such a beautiful scene before his eyes; her breaths tremble every time he moves to pump her, and her face gets redder; he is increasing his speed even more.


    Suddenly, Bella realizes that in between the pleasure and the pain, she is about to climax again. She moans loudly as she comes countless times. And then, a few minutes later, she felt the same sensation again. And a few minutes later, Bella came again, and now she felt a squirt coming from her lower lips.


    After a while of seeing his wife multiple climaxes, Tristan finally couldn¡¯t hold his ejaculation any longer. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, my wife, I¡¯m coming... Ahh..." His hoarse voice made Bella slowly open her eyes.


    Bella felt happy to finally give him what he really needed. Looking at his satisfied expression when he released his warm liquid inside her, tears began to flow from the corner of her eyes. She cried because this was too beautiful to witness. This memory would stay in her mind for a long time.


    After a few minutes,


    They finally lay side by side while catching their breath, looking at each other with silly smiles framing their tired faces.


    "I love you. Thank you, Bella Donovan! Now, I think I will die if I ever live without you beside me¡­." Tristan said while covering their body with the blanket.


    Bella is unable to utter anything. She could only bury her face in his broad chest, hiding her blushing face while trying to calm her heart.


    However, as soon as her lower abdomen touched his still-hard little brother, her blood shivered, and her heartbeat started to pump again. Her mind began to fill with how wild they were making love earlier.


    "Why are you hiding your beautiful face from me? Are you embarrassed?" Tristan¡¯s voice sounded above her head. She silently gulped and looked up to meet his gaze.


    "No. I¡¯m not¡ª"


    Bella was entirely lying. She was indeed embarrassed by his expression when he released warm liquid inside her; just seeing his satisfied face and hearing his moans of pleasure made Bella feel like the luckiest woman in the world; she could make this powerful man in this country bend the knee to her.


    "Really?"


    "Hmm!" Bella hurriedly answered, but later, she could feel his little brother down there, starting to find a way to enter her again.


    She gulps, "Hubby, why is your little brother still as hard as before? I thought earlier you already¡ª"


    "I¡¯m sorry, dear. Even though I released mine, my little brother wanted more."


    Bella was utterly speechless. Earlier, she almost fainted; this man sucked all of her energy. Not only that but now, she felt her thighs sore.


    "Not, now! I¡¯m tired. I can¡¯t do it now¡ª"


    "You look fine, darling..." Tristan leaned closer and pressed his lips to hers for a light kiss before continuing, "Let¡¯s do it again. I promise I¡¯ll make it faster this time, okay!?"


    "No!" Bella pulled her head away from him. "Tristan, my thighs feel sore. If we do it again, I probably won¡¯t be able to walk. Remember, we still have to go down for lunch." She warned him, afraid he would forget they had a dinner appointment with her mother.


    Suddenly, Tristan felt terrible hearing that.

 Chapter 309: This is How The Pregnancy Rumors Started

    "I¡¯m sorry if I hurt you, my love. I was too selfish to think about myself because I¡¯d been waiting for this opportunity for years. Alright, we¡¯ll do it again when you feel better."


    Tristan kissed her forehead gently and hugged her.


    "It¡¯s fine," Bella felt bad hearing his words. She suddenly remembered what Geoffrey had told her: that Tristan had no desire to look for another woman before she returned and that all the people around Tristan thought he might become a monk if he continued to stay away from women.


    Tristan sighed, hearing her words. He still blames himself because he forgets about her weak state. How stupid.


    When Bella saw Tristan¡¯s expression turn gloomy, she hurriedly continued, trying to lift his mood.


    "Hubby, even though I feel my leg sore and tired, I also enjoyed it," Bella said. She felt relieved when she saw his smile bloom.


    Instantly, Tristan¡¯s eyes beamed when he heard his wife enjoy their lovemaking. But his happiness seemed to betray his clear mind; his hand started to touch her stomach, slowly climbing up to her not-too-big breasts, fit to his palm.


    "Tr-Tristan,ummhh¡­" Bella said, moaning as she felt his warm hand knead her breasts. Her body arched as his thumb played with her erect nipple. "W-What are you doing, Tristan!? I thought you said you feel sorry asking for more!?" she asked, trying to stop him.


    "Wife, let¡¯s do it again¡ª"


    Gosh! S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Mr. Sinclair, you are so shameless.¡¯ She vents her frustration in her mind.


    Before Bella could scold him, a soft knock suddenly came from the door. Stop Tristan from touching her.


    They both looked at the door, curious.


    Later, Bella shifted her gaze to Tristan.


    "Is it Dax?" she whispered, her worried tone failing to hide her fear. They were still naked, with their clothes scattered on the floor. What would their son think if he saw them now?


    "Who is it!?" Tristan asked calmly, but his tone was clear; he didn¡¯t like being disturbed now.


    "Master, it¡¯s me, Geoffrey. I apologize if this call disturbed you most unpleasantly. But I need to inform you that lunch¡­ is ready¡­and everyone¡­everyone is already waiting for you and the young madam to join¡ª"


    Geoffrey¡¯s polite voice relieved Bella. Without waiting for Tristan to respond, she got out of bed, fully naked, and limped to the bathroom, ignoring the pain around her inside thighs.


    "Okay, Geoffrey. Thank you for letting me know," Tristan responded while standing from the bed. He felt amused looking at his cute naked wife running like a little rabbit. "My wife and I will join later. Please ask them to start first," he said while walking to the bathroom.


    Silence hung in the air as Geoffrey heard his master¡¯s response. Countless questions danced in his mind.


    ¡¯Why did he ask the others to eat first?¡¯


    ¡¯Why? Why does Master Tristan need more time when his mother-in-law is here?¡¯


    ¡¯Did they need more time to prepare?¡¯


    ¡¯Were they still doing something¡ª¡¯


    Suddenly, Geoffrey¡¯s face turned red when he realized a naughty thought. But then, a slight relief was also evident on his face.


    Geoffrey cleared his throat silently before responding.


    "Yes, master. I will¡ª"


    ***


    At the same time, on the first floor.


    "Where are Tristan and Bella?" Lewis Sinclair asked as soon as he saw Geoffrey enter the dining room. Alone.


    "How can Bella and Tristan be late for lunch when this is Natalie¡¯s first time joining us?" Isaac Donovan chimed in, shaking his head slowly, disappointed in them.


    Geoffrey felt even more tense now that all eyes were on him. With tension, he approached Lewis Sinclair.


    He leaned in slightly, bringing his head closer to Lewis before whispering in his low tone, "Old Master, it seems that Master Tristan and Young Madam are trying to give Young Master Dax a little sister. They will be a few minutes late. Master Tristan asked me to inform you to start lunch without them."


    Geoffrey¡¯s words conveyed relief as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders to inform his old master of this big news.


    Annoyed that his grandson was impolite for making his mother-in-law wait, Lewis Sinclair slowly smiled when he heard Geoffrey¡¯s explanation.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Lewis? What¡¯s with the sudden smile?" Isaac asked, increasingly curious to see Lewis smiling. The look in his best friend¡¯s eyes clearly showed that he was happy.


    Lewis didn¡¯t answer Isaac but turned to Geoffrey and gestured for him to explain to Isaac.


    A few moments later, Isaac Donovan wore the same expression as Lewis Sinclair. He laughed happily while nodding in satisfaction, knowing what was happening upstairs. The thought of welcoming another great-grandchild swelled his heart.


    "Gramps? Why are you both laughing in happiness? Is something good happening with my mommy and daddy upstairs?"


    Dax¡¯s eyes narrowed with curiosity and excitement as he looked at his two great-grandfathers.


    "Ha ha ha, yes, yes, dear Dax," Lewis Sinclair¡¯s laugh boomed in the room, surprising everyone. "You will hear the good news later."


    Isaac Donovan cleared his throat to distract Lewis, afraid his shameless old friend would say something Dax shouldn¡¯t hear.


    "All right, all right, let¡¯s eat first. My dear Natalie, you eat first. Bella and Tristan will join us soon," Isaac said, then looked at Dax. "You too, Dax. Eat more; you need to grow taller quickly. And you need to be stronger, too, given what¡¯s coming."


    Dax, "..."


    He was even more confused.


    ***


    When everyone discussed Tristan and Bella¡¯s absence, Bella, who had changed her clothes and tidied up her appearance, struggled to leave the room. She felt aching in her thigh.


    Standing near the door waiting for Bella, Tristan felt concerned and guilty when he saw her walking like a snail. Every time she took a step, her eyebrows knitted together as if she was in pain.


    "My darling wife, I¡¯m really sorry if it hurt you like this¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s sadness was apparent in his tone. He saw she didn¡¯t utter anything, only tried to smile at him, but her smile failed to reach her eyes, making him feel even more guilty.

 Chapter 310: Guilty

    "My darling wife, how about if you skip lunch with everyone and just rest in bed? I¡¯ll ask Noora to bring your lunch here. And then I¡¯ll tell everyone that you¡¯re not feeling well," he suggested, unable to bear seeing her in pain.


    "No, please. I can handle it."


    Bella immediately protested and tried hard to reach the door.


    "Are you sure, my love?"


    "Hmm, I¡¯ll be fine in a few steps. No need to worry about me¡ª" Bella smiled at him, but inwardly, she scolded him for what he did.


    Gosh! She never expected that having wild sex again after so many years would make her entire body feel like she had just finished her first marathon.


    It was just like when Tristan took her virginity after their wedding day. They made love most of the night, and she felt this way when she woke up the following day. She couldn¡¯t do anything without feeling pain in her thigh; she just lay in bed because she felt like all her bones were being crushed.


    And now she felt it again.


    Her body felt like it was falling apart.


    ¡¯How could this man hold himself for so long?¡¯ she wondered while glancing at him, who was walking beside her.


    Bella was curious when she could no longer count how many times she orgasmed. But him? If she wasn¡¯t mistaken, he only came once. And that was after she no longer had the energy to match his stamina.


    Her first thought as she tried to figure it out was how her husband could stay hard for so long every time they made love.


    ¡¯Did he take Viagra?¡¯


    But Bella immediately dismissed that thought; she had never seen him drink anything suspicious or unusual. Especially last night, before they made love.


    Sighing deeply while shaking her head, Bella tried to put aside her curiosity and walk faster.


    After a few steps, she finally managed to walk normally, enduring the nameless pain in her thigh.


    "Do you want me to carry you to the first floor?" Tristan asks as they approach the stairs.


    But Bella gives him a "Seriously??" kind of look.


    Of course, she rejects him. If someone saw him carry her, they might think negatively, right?


    Tristan smiles at her before taking her hand as they descend the stairs.


    "I think now is the time to build an elevator in this house¡ªEveryone else that I know already installed one or two in their homes," Tristan murmurs to himself, but Bella hears him clearly.


    She can only chuckle inwardly while trying to adjust her expression before reaching the first floor.


    When they finally enter the dining room, Bella feels sorry for arriving so late as she sees her son finishing his breakfast. Even her elders are done with their meal and are enjoying their coffee. The only one still eating is her mother.


    "Mommy, Daddy¡ª" Dax stands up when he sees his parents. "Why did you just come down? Are you alright, Mom?" he asks worriedly, making Bella feel even more guilty seeing his concerned gaze.


    She takes her son¡¯s hand, and a gentle smile appears on her lips. "I¡¯m fine. Sorry, baby. I fell asleep..." This is the only excuse she can come up with. "Have you eaten yet, baby?" she hurriedly changes the subject.


    "Yes. I¡¯m done. I¡¯m just waiting for Mom and Dad," Dax glances at his father, who has walked to the dining table to greet his grandma and the others.


    "Would you like some ice cream to accompany Mom!?" Bella offered.


    "Umm... yes... I want ice cream, a lot of ice cream! Chocolate and Vanilla Ice Cream combined!" Dax says quickly as he pulls his mother to join the others.


    Bella is no longer concerned about them being suspicious of their late arrival.


    She casually sits between her mother and Dax while Tristan sits with the two grandfathers opposite them.


    "Mom, I¡¯m sorry I fell asleep." Bella immediately apologizes to her mother and tells her that Tristan didn¡¯t wake her up, which is why they were late.


    "It¡¯s okay, Bella," Natalie smiled as she gently patted her back. "Hurry up and eat your lunch. You look so thin," she said, concerned.


    Though Bella almost chuckled at her mother¡¯s comment, she said nothing. At this moment, she was starving after Tristan exhausted her. She indeed needed to eat a lot.


    Before long,


    When Bella finished her main dish, she suddenly heard her grandpa asking Noora to bring more food for her. She immediately looked at Noora and stopped her.


    How could she eat more after finishing a bowl of chicken soup, grilled beef, and other main dishes?


    "No need, Aunty Noora, I¡¯m full with this. I will eat fruits and cake for my dessert¡ª" Bella smiled while accepting a slice of cheesecake from Tristan. "Thank you, Tristan." She smiled at him while starting to eat the cake.


    "You need to eat more protein, Bella," Isaac said, gesturing to Noora to go to the kitchen. "What your mother said is correct. You are getting thinner now. You will find it difficult to get pregnant if you are too skinny¡ª" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Pft!" Bella almost spat out the cake she had just eaten, too shocked by her grandfather¡¯s words.


    ¡¯PREGNANT!? What the hell is Grandpa thinking? Why did he suddenly bring up this idea!?¡¯ Bella was starting to suspect that her grandpa knew today was the first time she and Tristan had slept together again.


    Suddenly, Bella felt all her blood rushing to her face. She was embarrassed to only think about it.


    Before she could clarify to her grandpa, Noora returned with two servings of grilled meat and mashed potatoes in her hands.


    Bella sighed silently but accepted it. When she saw the beef, she suddenly wanted to eat it and felt hungry again. She received another plate from Noora and offered it to Tristan, who had also finished his lunch and was now busy chatting with the two elders.


    However, before she could give the plate to Tristan, Noora stopped her.

 Chapter 311: Having Another Child At Home Would Be Nice

    However, before she could give the plate to Tristan, Noora stopped her.


    "Young Miss, it¡¯s all for you. If Master Tristan wants to eat too, I could ask the chef to prepare another full plate of this delicious food for him," Noora said while helping her place the second plate on the table.


    Bella was even more surprised. She looked at the two plates in front of her and then turned to look at Noora, who was still standing behind her with a strange smile framing her face.


    She motioned for Noora to come closer, then whispered, "Do you want me to return to the size I was five years ago? Well, Aunty, I don¡¯t want to become fat again, alright!"


    Noora softly laughed before answering.


    "Hahaha, you are so funny, young Miss. Of course not. But from now on, you should start eating more protein than usual. You need plenty of protein to become stronger and healthier."


    Noora giggled, remembering what Geoffrey had said to her. They will soon have another child in the house, and just thinking about it made her happy. ¡¯It would be fun having another kid around, right?¡¯


    Bella frowned in confusion, looking at Noora¡¯s odd expression.


    "Speak more clearly, Aunty Noora. What are you trying to say?" Her voice slightly raised, but without entirely losing her gentleness.


    "Hehehe, Miss, you also have to control your emotions. You can¡¯t get angry easily because that¡¯s not good for, you know what I mean¡ª" Noora paused when Bella glared at her. "O-Okay, Miss, hurry up and eat while the meat is still warm."


    Noora runs to the corner, avoiding Bella, who scolds her with her gaze.


    Bella opened her mouth to say something, but Noora had already left. Her confusion grew thicker.


    ¡¯What happened with Aunt Noora? Wait¡­what happened HERE? Why does everyone look weird? Did something happen before we came?¡¯ she wondered while trying to eat.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Bella?" Natalie asked, confused when her daughter¡¯s expression changed to worry and perplexed.


    "Are you alright, Bella?" Isaac also noticed her annoyance. "Oh dear, are you not feeling well?"


    Bella silently took a deep sigh before she responded. However, just before she spoke, Lewis Sinclair¡¯s angry voice rang in the air, surprising everyone. Instantly, everyone is now looking at him.


    "You Brat!! Tsk, my granddaughter-in-law has just returned from East City, and you¡¯re making her even more exhausted!" Lewis narrowed his eyes on his Grandson. "Can you hold yourself, brat?"


    Bella¡¯s eyes widened when she heard Lewis¡¯s words.


    ¡¯Why does Grandpa Lewis sound strange, just like Noora and Grandpa?¡¯ She was utterly speechless.


    Tristan was equally perplexed as Bella. He was also confused by his grandfather¡¯s weird words and unusual tone. His brows furrowed as he looked at him.


    Natalie and Dax didn¡¯t understand either. They looked at Tristan and Bella alternately as if asking with their gazes, "Are they hiding something?"


    The room became more tense as everyone now stared at Tristan, waiting for him to respond. He shook his head while leaning closer to his Grandpa and whispered to ask, "What do you want to say, Grandpa?"


    "Hahaha... It¡¯s fine... It¡¯s fine... Alright, Brat, continue to eat your lunch," Lewis Sinclair said, gently patting Tristan¡¯s back before turning his gaze to Isaac. "Alright, Isaac, let¡¯s enjoy the warm weather outside and talk about... Ahem...


    You know what I mean, right?"


    "Hahaha, of course, let¡¯s go, my friend..." Isaac gladly stood from his seat and followed Lewis.


    Tristan was speechless, watching his Grandpa and Isaac Donovan leave with a satisfied laugh.


    He turned his gaze to Bella again, surprised to see she had almost finished her lunch.


    ***


    That day went by so fast.


    After lunch, Bella was busy helping her mother.


    Bella tried to provide her with everything, including clothes and new communication devices. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They also discussed plans for her mother to go to the hospital for an examination in the next few days.


    She only returned to the main house before dinner.


    After dinner, Bella had no energy; she just wanted to return to her room and relax.


    Fortunately, Tristan was working in his home office.


    So Bella decides to video call her best friend, Harper. She needs to ask Harper about branded clothes.


    For almost a month, Bella didn¡¯t communicate with Harper via video call; they only exchanged texts because they were equally swamped with work.


    Sitting at the work desk in the corner of the room, Bella stared at her laptop screen as she opened her FaceTimed.


    "OMG! What the heck!" Harper gasped in shock when she saw Bella¡¯s face at the other end. "Damn! You are finally calling me."


    Bella felt amused looking at Harper¡¯s shocked expression. Judging by how terrible her appearance was now, with her black hair tied in a messy bun and still wearing silk pajamas, she could guess Harper had just woken up.


    "Good morning, Pretty Harper..." Bella greeted her happily.


    "Jeez! Where have you been, girl?" Harper¡¯s voice sounded happy; however, her eyes now slightly trembled and blurred with emotion.


    "What the hell! Why are you crying?" Bella was speechless when she saw this cheerful girl suddenly become a whiny girl.


    Harper cleared her throat before responding, "Ugh, you know what, Bella? After you returned to your foolish hubby, you forgot me, huh!?" she said while shaking her head, her arms crossed over her chest.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh, hearing Harper still calling Tristan foolish.


    "Hahaha, you¡¯re wrong, dear. I haven¡¯t forgotten about you, but we are busy here," Bella sighed deeply.


    She started feeling stressed again, remembering so many significant problems in the company after she took over. And the one that stole most of her time was Stellar Entertainment, that bitch Laura Kiels.


    This left her without time to call or video chat with Harper over the past weeks because Laura Kiels consumed almost all her time in the office.


    "Well, do you know what¡¯s happening in the company?" Bella asked, attempting to shift Harper¡¯s focus away from blaming her.


    "Stellar Entertainment?" Suddenly, Harper¡¯s expression turned stiff.


    "Yes."


    "Of course, I know. Stefan reports everything to me. How the hell does a mere B-list celebrity try to slander our company? Is she tired of making a living there? Trying to mess with us?"

 Chapter 312: You Forget About Me?

    Bella shrugged while smiling bitterly.


    "That¡¯s why I¡¯m busy with that matter. But don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ve definitely thrown that bitch in jail!" Bella¡¯s eyes lit up, remembering the evidence they had received this morning.


    ¡¯Oh, right! Who sent the package?¡¯ Bella suddenly remembered Sam¡¯s promise to call her to report the sender of the package. ¡¯Did they find out who sent all that evidence?¡¯


    Bella glanced at her cell phone beside her computer. Earlier, when she texted Harper to arrange the FaceTime, she saw several unread text messages.


    She was sure Sam¡¯s text was there but didn¡¯t have time to check because Harper immediately confirmed she was on standby for FaceTime.


    "Really? Ugh, that¡¯s great!" Harper¡¯s anger slowly faded, replaced with a happy smile. She had already heard everything from Stefan about the matter Bella and her team were facing in Astington.


    When she learned about it, Harper scolded Jack Foster for assigning Bella to handle such a challenging company just as she returned. Harper was concerned that Bella might feel overwhelmed and decide to take another extended break.


    "Oh, why did you suddenly call?" Harper asked, slightly confused because Bella rarely called her at night at her place.


    Bella refocused on her reasons for contacting Harper. She knew RDF Group didn¡¯t have a license for the famous fashion brand she wanted to buy for her mother in this country, so she needed to ask Harper if they had one in a neighboring country.


    If they had, Bella would prefer to buy from their company rather than buy in this country; she knows the one who holds the license, the Spencer Group, under the command of Amanda Spencer.


    Amanda might have known it was hers if she had bought those branded clothes in this country because she would not have purchased a little but a lot.


    It would be awkward if she met Amanda again after what happened during their first meeting, which looked like it would be their last meeting.


    "Of course," Harper¡¯s eyes lit up. It had been a long time since Bella asked to buy clothes for her. In the past, when Bella was still working at their main office in New York, she was Bella¡¯s fashion stylist.


    "Girl, what do you need? Just tell me." Before Bella could answer, Harper spoke again while clasping her hands happily. "Ah, no need... No need... To tell me, girl. I will choose the latest collections for you for spring and autumn."


    "It¡¯s not for me."


    "What? Not for you? Then who? Your evil mother-in-law?" Harper narrowed her eyes, looking Bella in the eyes. She knew how evil her mother-in-law was and wouldn¡¯t help that woman, even when Bella asked her to. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha, of course not. Why should I help her?"


    Harper silently took a deep sigh. "Good. Good!"


    "For my mother¡ª"


    "Wait, wait, girl," Harper¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. "You already have a good relationship with your parents!?"


    As far as Harper knew, Bella¡¯s relationship with her parents had worsened since they forced her to marry. The latest news she knows is that Bella has only made up with her grandfather since returning to Astington.


    "Yes, but only my mother." A wry smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips. She knew her father was still furious because he hadn¡¯t yet found traces of her mother.


    From the short message Bella received from Aunt Emma at noon, she learned that her father had made a fuss at her aunt¡¯s house, forcing her to reveal her mother¡¯s whereabouts and who was helping her. However, Aunt Emma did not budge and refused to give him any information. So he left without knowing where her mother was.


    "Oh, girl," Harper became more emotional upon realizing that Bella had finally improved her relationship with her mother. "I¡¯m so happy for you, girl..."


    "Thank you, Harper." Bella felt her heart warm again when she saw Harper¡¯s eyes looking red as if she were about to cry. "Alright, no need to feel melancholic. Can you send me the person in charge of the company? I need to call them and buy a bulk of clothes for my mom."


    "You don¡¯t have to do that. Just let me know your mother¡¯s size and her fashion preferences. I will help you call them. I have plenty of time here to go on a shopping spree for your mother." Harper giggled, her eyes beaming with happiness.


    "Hahaha, alright. I will send you my mother¡¯s details later. I need to ask her first¡ª"


    "Sure!"


    They talked for a few more minutes about Harper¡¯s life in New York before Bella finally excused herself. She felt like she wanted to sleep now when she saw it was already eleven at night.


    After Bella closed her laptop, she took her cell phone and checked for a text message from Sam. She needed to know the identity of the person who had helped them. She had one name in mind that could help her with that evidence: Amanda Spencer.


    Bella remembered that during their last meeting, Amanda had offered to help her. Amanda had experience handling similar problems, as they owned the number one entertainment agency in the country.


    However, Bella doesn¡¯t want Amanda¡¯s help because she doesn¡¯t want to be indebted to the Spencers.


    She sighed deeply while searching for Sam¡¯s text and put aside her worry about Amanda Spencer.


    Before long, Bella finally found what she was looking for.


    After a few minutes of reading Sam¡¯s report, her eyes widened as she realized who had helped them.


    "Bella, are you alright?"


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s cell phone slipped from her hand and fell to the floor as soon as she heard Tristan¡¯s voice from the direction of the door. She looked up and saw Tristan walking closer to her, his brow slightly furrowed.


    "What¡¯s wrong, darling? Why look at me like you¡¯ve seen a ghost?" Tristan asked calmly while picking up her cell phone from the floor.


    Bella was speechless; she looked at Tristan with mixed emotions.


    "Is there any surprising news?" Tristan asked again, gently placing his other hand on her cheek.


    "Tristan, were you the one who sent the evidence to us!?"

 Chapter 313: Know The Identity of The Package Sender

    "What¡¯s evident?"


    Tristan asked as he placed her cell phone on the table and pulled her into his arms. His arms wrapped around her waist, bringing their bodies into close contact.


    Bella looked up at Tristan¡¯s face as she continued, "Evidence to send Laura Kiels to prison¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s expression slowly changed, his smile vanishing instantly as Bella¡¯s words hit him like a ton of bricks.


    He didn¡¯t immediately answer Bella. His mind was racing, realizing that the hacker behind her was much better than Max.


    How could she know so quickly?


    Tristan had ensured that Max erased any traces of the package¡¯s sender because he didn¡¯t want his wife to know about his involvement in this matter. He remembered her insistence that she handle it by herself and asked him not to get involved.


    Hearing her words made Tristan¡¯s heart race with worry. He urgently needed to speak with Max to uncover the identity of the hacker working behind his wife.


    "Mr. Tristan Sinclair, please answer me. Did you send the evidence?" Bella asked again when she hadn¡¯t heard anything from him. His gaze was still fixed on her as if he were present but absent simultaneously. This perplexed her. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A faint smile slowly spread across Tristan¡¯s lips, though he inwardly worried that she knew about his underground operations. He didn¡¯t want her to concern herself too much with his other business, at least not now.


    An idea appeared in his mind to test how much she knew about his involvement.


    "Wife, why did you assume I sent it? Is there anything I do that makes you suspect me?" he asked calmly, maintaining his smile.


    Bella felt doubtful; was her guess wrong?


    "Okay. Why don¡¯t we sit down first? Then maybe you could share what¡¯s inside your mind about this," Tristan said, taking her hand and leading her to the sofa.


    After they sat beside each other, Bella began telling him about the Laura Kiels case.


    They didn¡¯t have strong evidence to put Laura Kiels in prison, and the woman had started making a comeback on social media, trying to garner sympathy from A-Netz.


    While they were at a dead end, they suddenly received strong evidence to send Laura Kiels to prison.


    Earlier, Bella was surprised to learn that Sam had reported the sender, who was related to her husband.


    Tristan, silently listening, tried not to show too much reaction.


    "¡ªHubby, Sam said the person who put the package in my office met one of the men who came with you to the park when the gangster attacked me," Bella said, her eyes fixed on him.


    Instantly, Reid, the head of his company¡¯s security team, appeared in Tristan¡¯s mind. He remembered Reid also coming to the park with him.


    ¡¯Damn it, Reid! How could you make this small mistake?¡¯ Tristan vented his anger toward his team in his mind before he smiled at her.


    Tristan was frustrated by his team¡¯s small mistake but relieved that Bella didn¡¯t seem to suspect his underground business¡ªat least not yet. He hoped she wouldn¡¯t discover it, as it would be hard to explain.


    But he couldn¡¯t avoid it since his wife already knew about the evidence.


    Tristan casually rubbed the back of his neck, smiling guiltily at her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, my wife, if I helped you without telling you beforehand. I just wanted to lessen your stress about this case. That¡¯s why I secretly helped you. I asked my security team, Reid, who came with me to the park, to look for the evidence and send it to you¡ª" Tristan stopped in surprise.


    He couldn¡¯t continue his words as her warm lips covered his. She pulled her lips away just before he wanted to kiss her back deeply.


    "Thank you, hubby. This time, I am truly happy about your help. When we were at a dead end, you sent the evidence to us. And I¡¯m also happy that you didn¡¯t brag about it and let me discover that you help me without patronizing me."


    Tristan was shocked. He thought Bella would be upset because of his help.


    "You know, Hubby? If we don¡¯t have strong evidence, that woman might make a quick comeback in the entertainment industry in this country¡ª" Bella paused her sentence when she saw the shocked expression on Tristan¡¯s face. "Why do you look so worried?"


    Tristan smiled, "I thought you would be angry with me because I helped you without you asking."


    "Husband, why should I be angry about it?" Bella laughed when she saw his confused expression. "Instead, thank you because you helped me a lot..."


    "You probably forgot. But you told me not to help you with this matter when I offered you help," Tristan responded.


    Bella nodded, taking a deep breath. At first, she believed Laura Kiels¡¯ case was simple. However, she recently discovered that someone with a strong background was assisting Laura. Her suspicions intensified when her team found no evidence regarding Robert¡¯s death.


    "I know. At first, I thought this was a simple case. But recently, I discovered that someone with a strong background is helping her," Bella said.


    "Someone behind that woman?" Tristan asked. He didn¡¯t think that far.


    When he obtained the evidence, he only arrested Robert without investigating Laura Kiels¡¯ background in detail.


    "Yes. At first, I suspected that your mother was helping her. But after we investigated, we found your mother was not involved with her after¡ª"


    Bella informed him that Jessica had last seen Laura two months ago at a restaurant.


    At that time, Laura left the restaurant in a terrible condition, as if Jessica had harshly punished her. After that, Laura disappeared and hid in a place that couldn¡¯t be traced.


    "Interesting, she has someone behind her¡ª" Tristan said, making a note to ask his people to find out more.


    "But now I no longer think about that woman. She will soon go to jail after my legal representative reports the evidence to the police!" Bella¡¯s eyes beamed; she couldn¡¯t wait to see that woman arrested for what she did.


    Tristan felt relieved to see his wife no longer stressed. He embraced her, carrying her to their bed shortly afterward.


    "Wifey, let¡¯s give Dax a little sister."


    Bella was utterly speechless.

 Chapter 314: Second Investigation

    A few days later.


    Bella and Leo sat in her office, watching "Morning Gossip," the entertainment news on television. They were covering a live report on Laura Kiels¡¯ case.


    On the television screen, Laura¡¯s car was seen surrounded by many journalists who had been waiting for her in front of the police station since morning.


    Then, Laura exited her car with her lawyer beside her. She faced the journalists¡¯ cameras with an innocent expression.


    Laura Kiels was wearing a white knee-length dress, reflecting her pure image. Her straight black hair flowed down her back, and her face was adorned with minimal makeup, only soft pink lip gloss. This completely differed from her usual glamorous appearance on television or social media.


    Leo, witnessing this, couldn¡¯t help but comment, "Wow, why does she appear like that!? Did she not have time to do her makeup because the police officer suddenly asked her to come this early morning!?" He glanced at Bella across from him.


    Bella, sitting relaxed on a single sofa with her legs crossed while holding a cup of latte, chuckled at Leo¡¯s question. She shook her head and turned her gaze to Leo.


    "Obviously not. This woman deliberately made herself look na?ve and innocent in public to gather sympathy from A-Netz and the journalists."


    "Fuck! That crazy bitch! How shameless¡ª" Leo couldn¡¯t continue cursing at Laura because Bella asked him to shut up and watch the television.


    He closed his mouth and looked at the screen. He saw Laura starting to answer the reporters¡¯ questions.


    "Miss Laura, good morning. I¡¯m Lisa Hendrick from Astington Gossip News. I have some questions for you..." One of the female journalists standing right in front of Laura asked, representing all her colleagues.


    Laura smiled weakly at the journalist. "Yes, sure. But first, let me say a few words. Thank you all for waiting for me here. And to A-Netz, especially my fans around the country, I¡¯m sorry for making you all wait and worry about me." She said while bowing her head slightly.


    Sincerity and sadness radiated from her facial expression. Those who saw her seemed to see how stressed she was regarding this matter.


    "Miss Laura, can you explain why the police suddenly summoned you again for an interrogation?" the female journalist, Lisa Hendrick, asked again.


    "To be honest, I don¡¯t know why they asked me to come again. As a law-abiding citizen, I came here to help the police investigate the case against my manager," Laura said, pausing for a moment. She wiped the corners of her eyes as if to erase the traces of her tears.


    Everyone was silent, waiting for Laura Kiels to continue her words.


    "I¡¯m really sorry. I suddenly felt sad remembering Robert¡¯s kindness. I hope he is now at peace up there. He was a good friend and manager to me."


    Everyone felt sympathy for her.


    But another journalist asked her, "Miss Laura, please answer. Is the case involving Robert true? Is he the sole perpetrator? And, as you mentioned before, are you not involved at all?"


    Laura looked at the male reporter who asked the question. With a gloomy expression, she answered, "I¡¯ve explained. I don¡¯t know anything about it, about the result. What I could say now, I wasn¡¯t involved¡ª"


    Before Laura could continue her sentence, her lawyer, the man in the black suit beside her, raised his hand to stop her from speaking.


    Then he stepped forward, shielding Laura and addressing the reporters.


    "Sorry, gentlemen. My client is late now. We will provide further information after she finishes meeting with the investigator. Thank you!" the lawyer said, leading Laura into the police building, leaving the journalists dissatisfied with this short interview.


    Some of the journalists stayed behind, exchanging words with each other and expressing opinions about the case that was being hotly discussed throughout the country; Laura Kiels is suspected of being involved in a defamation case and the death of Robert, her manager.


    "Are you sure she¡¯s involved?"


    "I¡¯m sure. There¡¯s no way the manager would have come up with that idea, right?"


    "Same!"


    "I agree, too."


    "Guys, don¡¯t jump to conclusions. Wait for the results of the police investigation."


    "I agree with them. If Laura is summoned again for a second examination, I believe the police have new evidence. Isn¡¯t that right?"


    "Wow, you¡¯re right, bro!"


    "But why is she so confident that she wasn¡¯t involved?"


    "Hahaha, since when do perpetrators admit what they have done? They will deny it unless there is strong evidence."


    "True, true..."


    "Indeed, you are so right about this, buddy!"


    ***


    Meanwhile, Laura, walking beside her lawyer, frowned, confused by his attitude of stopping her from giving an interview.


    Laura felt too short to appear on the news. Because she still wanted to attract the attention of the A-Netz, she was looking for sympathy so that they would support her.


    She leaned closer and whispered, afraid someone might hear, "Why did you stop me?"


    "Miss Laura, you are not allowed to give any statements or conclusions about this case. It¡¯s in your best interest. I fear all the journalists outside will twist whatever you say."


    "Did I say something wrong?" Laura asked, confused by her lawyer¡¯s words.


    The lawyer said nothing but nodded in response to his client¡¯s question.


    Not long after, they arrived at the empty interrogation room. A police officer who led them to the room asked them to go in first.


    "Miss, don¡¯t be nervous," whispered the lawyer. "You only need to reply to their questions, as discussed."


    Laura Kiels is sitting in her seat. "Mmm. I know!"


    Before long,


    Two male investigators entered the room, holding a few documents and laptops.


    They sat opposite Laura Kiels and her lawyer.


    The room felt even more tense as the investigator began questioning Laura Kiels about her involvement with the paid buzzer who attacked Stellar Entertainment. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Laura, who heard the investigators¡¯ questions, was confused.


    ¡¯Why are they asking me about this again?¡¯ Laura clearly remembered that she had given them a clear answer; she did not know and had denied ever ordering Robert to do that.

 Chapter 315: Her Dead End!

    "Miss Laura Kiels, let me ask you one more time. Now, be frank with us, Miss Laura Kiels. Is your answer still the same as your last answer?" the investigator asked.


    Laura¡¯s hands were clenched tightly in her lap. She¡¯s trying very hard to maintain her composure before answering. "I never asked my manager, Robert, to do that."


    The investigator slightly nodded, looking at her, but kept his calm and poker eyes. Before he could ask another question, Laura suddenly spoke again.


    "Officer, Sir, I¡¯m sorry, but did you ask me to come here only to repeat the same questions? It makes me want to vomit. It¡¯s nauseated me, sir." Laura Kiels asked.


    She took a deep breath before continuing. "And, I think I¡¯ve already answered them all. Right, sir?" her voice sounded gentle. Still, her eyes betrayed her annoyance with this second round of questions.


    "Miss Laura Kiels, don¡¯t worry; we won¡¯t ask you the same questions today," another investigator said calmly and politely while ignoring Laura¡¯s complaint. He smiled at Laura before he continued, "My colleague here just wanted to double-check your previous statement. You know, to remove any unnecessary doubt."


    Laura turned to see the man next to the young investigator who had questioned her earlier. His mature and calmer demeanor indicated that he was the boss.


    "Sir, you said something new?"


    "Yes, Miss Laura."


    "Well, you can ask me. I will answer right away. There is no need to prolong this. I¡¯m a busy person¡ª" Laura said, unable to hold her annoyance with their slow procedure.


    The senior investigator didn¡¯t bother answering Laura but shifted his gaze to his colleague beside him and gave a slight nod.


    "You can do it now," he said before turning his gaze again at Laura.


    "Yes, sir!" the younger investigator answered. He immediately opened his laptop.


    After typing something on the keyboard, he turned to Laura Kiels and her lawyer before saying, "Miss Laura, earlier, you denied any involvement in all the questions we asked you, right?"


    Laura only nodded, feeling too lazy to answer him.


    "Miss Laura, we have a recording of your voice. The recording has been verified by the expert and computer, and they found it matches 100 percent with your actual voice. And the recording is related to our case. Now, how do you explain this voice recording?" The young investigator asked.


    Instantly, the lawyer sitting calmly beside Laura flinched, his expression slowly changing as he asked, "What voice recording?" Worry flashed through his gaze as he looked sharply at the investigator before him.


    But the investigators ignored him. One pressed the play button, and the voices of a woman and a man came from the laptop speakers, enough to startle Laura and her lawyer.


    "Listen, Robert, I want you to pay a buzzer out there and teach Stellar Entertainment a lesson! How dare they do this to me?"


    "Laura, are you sure? This is very dangerous, you know."


    "Yes, I know! That¡¯s why you should find the best one and make sure no one can trace you back."


    "This¡ª"


    "What are you afraid of? Just do it, alright? Make sure you make that stupid company suffer. I don¡¯t want to fall alone to hell; they must come with me, too!"


    "But, Laura, please reconsider¡ª"


    "What the hell, Robert! Can you do what I ask? Stop questioning me. I¡¯m the one paying your salary, not the other way around."


    "Alright."


    The audio recording stopped.


    Laura Kiels¡¯ face instantly turned pale, as if all the blood had drained from her skin.


    Her hand, hidden under the table, shook as she heard her own voice with Robert talking about something that could throw her into jail. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯That bastard, Robert! How dare he record our conversation!? How dare he betray me!? Damn it!!¡¯ Laura Kiels was speechless. She could only curse Robert inwardly.


    "Miss Laura Kiels..." The young investigator¡¯s voice snapped Laura out of her thoughts. She looked at him, trying to maintain her calmness but failed, her anger radiance from her gaze.


    "How do you explain this recording, Miss Laura Kiels? And don¡¯t tell me this is a fake recording. The recording has been verified," the young investigator asked while cornering Laura at the same time.


    Laura opened her mouth, but her lawyer spoke before she could say anything.


    "Miss Laura, you don¡¯t have to answer that," the lawyer said calmly, then turned to the investigator. "Sir, I need time to discuss this with my client right now. May I talk to my client alone and in private now?" This was the only way he could protect his client.


    However,


    The investigator looked at the lawyer with a deadpan expression. Then he turned to Laura and smiled at her.


    "Why do you want us to leave you in such a hurry? Well, I still have many questions for your client," The young investigator said unhurriedly, trying to annoy the lawyer.


    The lawyer couldn¡¯t say anything more. He guessed that the police already had substantial evidence to detain his client, so he had no choice but to agree to the continuation of the interrogation.


    "Miss Laura, did you kill Robert because you wanted to hide this audio evidence?" the young investigator asked calmly. However, his question almost choked Laura Kiels and her lawyer.


    "Miss Laura, you have the right to remain silent," the lawyer insisted, ensuring his client didn¡¯t make any unnecessary comments before they discussed the case. He had to think of a way to ensure his client would not be severely punished if she was proven guilty.


    The two investigators completely ignored the lawyer, who was now panicking beside Laura. Meanwhile, Laura looked increasingly pale.


    "Alright, if you don¡¯t say anything, let¡¯s hear this one..." the investigator said before playing another recording.


    The male voice clearly belonged to Robert:


    "Hi, I¡¯m Robert! If you hear this voice recording, it means I am no longer on this earth, breathing and alive. Someone has killed me. And you must know who the person is. She is the only one who wants to eliminate me because I keep many of her secrets. She is my boss, Laura Kiels."


    Instantly, Laura¡¯s vision darkened; all her muscles seemed to betray her, and she could no longer support her body even to sit.


    She fainted!

 Chapter 316: Someone Coming?

    On the same day, in the afternoon, at the Quantum Capital Building.


    Bella spent her entire afternoon following the news about Laura Kiels¡¯ case.


    Laura Kiels¡¯ name remained the most talked-about topic across all media, including television, radio, print, and the internet. Her name has also become the number one trending topic on social media.


    Later,


    Bella opened one of the articles with the most exciting title.


    [Laura Kiels¡¯ Legal Status Finally Changed to Suspect. How Many Years Will She Spend in Prison?]


    After reading the news, Bella felt pleased with how things were going. It seemed like the universe was on their side. Their evidence was strong enough to send Laura to prison, and the police acted swiftly to elevate her status and make the arrest.


    Even though the police had not yet made an official statement about Laura Kiels¡¯s status changing from suspect to perpetrator, Bella was sure they would announce it in the next few days.


    Bella had made sure that her company lawyer and Stefan would oversee this case until Laura Kiels was held accountable for her actions, which had disrupted her life and the company and had taken innocent lives like Robert¡¯s.


    "HAH!" Bella shouted, taking a deep breath, "Laura Kiels, this time you are going to jail. Enjoy life behind the cage, BITCH!!" she said while closing the article and turning off her computer.


    After a few months of dealing with this matter, the episode involving Laura Kiels in her life had finally concluded. That woman would no longer bother her. And she also wouldn¡¯t think about that damn woman again.


    She felt relieved!


    A noticeable smile slowly emerged on Bella¡¯s lips as she leaned back in her CEO chair.


    Bella still had plenty of time before her husband came to pick her up; Tristan said he would come after six, so she still had three hours. She closed her eyes and tried to rest her eyes and mind.


    But not long after, Stefan¡¯s voice could be heard from the door, suprised Bella.


    "Hi, Sister. You look so relaxed. Did you read the news about Laura Kiels?"


    Bella sat up straight and looked at him. A smile spread across her lips as she noticed how neat and clean he looked. He was wearing an oversized hoodie the same color as his navy jeans, leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed over his chest.


    "Yes," Bella answered him while walking to the seating area. She gestured for Stefan to join her. "Bro, why do you look so neat today? Are you going somewhere? Dating? Wow..." She happily clasped her hand.


    Since Stefan lived upstairs, it was rare to see him wearing jeans or sneakers. He usually only wore a tracksuit and flip-flops. Even when they visited restaurants near their building, his style never changed. After all, he was a hacker; he spent all day inside his computer room, barely coming out to touch grass*.


    Stefan entered the room with a frown. "Sister, seriously, you didn¡¯t know?"


    "Should I know about something?" Bella asked, confused. She didn¡¯t know if she should remember anything else. Lately, her mind had only been focused on her mother¡¯s health treatment and Laura Kiels¡¯ matter.


    "Oh, this is interesting! You didn¡¯t know about someone¡¯s arrival today? Seriously?" Stefan said while sitting across from Bella.


    "Who? Who is coming to make you dress like this?" Bella asked curiously.


    Stefan didn¡¯t answer right away. He scratched his head, thinking for a moment whether to tell her or not.


    "Jeez¡­Stefan, can you spill it already?" Bella said impatiently as she looked at him, his deliberate stalling making her even more confused and curious.


    "That person might have a reason not to tell you, Sis. To surprise you. And it wouldn¡¯t be fun if I told you now, right?" Stefan grinned. He decided not to say anything, or that woman would haunt him.


    Bella looked at Stefan sharply as if she wanted to dive into his mind to discover his thoughts.


    How annoying! This was the first time she felt really curious to know about something.


    For some unknown reason, she also couldn¡¯t figure out exactly who Stefan was referring to.


    After silently taking a deep breath, a half smile appeared on her lips. "Alright, if you don¡¯t want to tell me, I won¡¯t give you permission to meet my son," Bella said casually, but her words struck his head like lightning.


    ¡¯How could she cancel my first meeting with Dax?¡¯


    Stefan started to worry. It¡¯s been a few days since he arrived in this city, but he hasn¡¯t had the chance to meet Dax.


    He could understand because Bella immediately had a serious matter with her mother and many urgent cases to solve in the company. They had all been so busy in the past few days. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Bella had invited him to lunch at her residence this weekend. He had been looking forward to finally leaving this building and meeting his nephew, Dax.


    "Sister Bella, you..." Stefan glared at Bella. "You¡¯ve already promised me. You can¡¯t just cancel that!"


    "Of course, I can if you¡¯re still keeping it a secret," she said, holding back a laugh when she saw his panicked expression.


    Stefan silently gulped. "Sis, you are so heartless and shameless! How dare you..."


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. She pretended to ignore Stefan, who was now begging.


    "Fine, fine, I will tell you¡ª"


    Finally, Bella smiled, turning her gaze to look at Stefan.


    "Who?" she asked.


    "Your best friend, Sister Harper!" Stefan sighed deeply. He didn¡¯t have a choice but to spill Harper¡¯s secret. "She¡¯s already on her way here; Sam picked her up at the airport."


    Instantly, Bella gasped in shock.


    Her mind was filled with many questions.


    Wasn¡¯t she still in New York a few days ago?


    What brings her to appear suddenly in Astington?


    ____


    *Touch grass = Touch Grass is a figurative expression suggesting that people should spend time outdoors, disconnect from technology, and engage with the physical world, specifically by being in nature or getting fresh air.

 Chapter 317: Meeting Harper Reed

    After a few more seconds passed, when her shock finally faded, Bella turned her gaze back to Stefan.


    "Why did Harper suddenly come here?" she asked.


    "How should I know? Sister Harper didn¡¯t tell me about her sudden visit. Still, I¡ª" Stefan paused when he suddenly remembered he shouldn¡¯t say anything about that to Bella, or he would be in trouble if she protested.


    "Still what? What are you trying to say, Stefan?" Bella could see that Stefan obviously was hiding something from her. She narrowed her eyes.


    "Ugh, sis, sorry. Actually, I know when Harper¡¯s passport is used..."


    Stefan explained that he can identify which members of the RDF Group¡¯s board of directors use their passports for international travel. Once one of the BODs applies for a visa or uses their passport at any airport to travel to another country, he will receive a special notification.


    That¡¯s how he found out when Harper applied for an express visa to visit Astington. He also automatically knew which jet Harper was on, when it was taking off, and when she would arrive.


    Bella was utterly speechless upon hearing Stefan¡¯s explanation. She didn¡¯t expect Stefan to be tracking them. Gosh! S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just before Bella wanted to respond, something crossed her mind. Her expression turned sharp as she looked at Stefan.


    Stefan could feel the coldness in her eyes. He silently wetted his throat while waiting for her to say something.


    "Why, why are you looking at me like that¡ª"


    "Five years ago. You know I applied for a Schengen visa, did you? And then find out my flight details, and then you pass the information on to Jack, don¡¯t you?" Bella rhetorically asked.


    Now, Bella could understand why Jack and Harper suddenly appeared at the airport when she arrived at Stockholm Arlanda Airport.


    At the time, she doubted Jack¡¯s reasons because they seemed too absurd. How could Jack know someone had sent money to her Swiss bank account and traced her flight details? She had already suspected that it was Stefan who found her, but she didn¡¯t expect him to trace her through her passport.


    Stefan¡¯s face stiffened when he heard her question. He no longer sat relaxed with his legs crossed. Instead, he sat up straight and smiled awkwardly at Bella. He knew he was in trouble now, exposing Jack¡¯s order to track all the company¡¯s Board of Directors.


    "Is it true?" Bella repeated.


    "Yeah. Sorry, sis, but this is for company security. Jack asked me to track all of your passports. I know wherever you are flying out of the country." Stefan could no longer hide anything from her. He would have to think about how to explain it to Jack.


    Bella was speechless.


    Now she understood why Jack knew her flight details and appeared with Harper at the airport to wait for her.


    ¡¯Gosh! Jack Foster, you are so shameless.¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration at him.


    However, even though Bella was annoyed, she couldn¡¯t be angry with her little brother, Stefan, because Stefan had kept his promise not to tell Jack where she was when she resided in this city during her marriage to Tristan. He helped her hide from Jack, and she was grateful for this.


    Bella hid from Jack not because she was afraid of something but because she didn¡¯t want Jack to bother her by coming to this city and asking her to return to the company, especially when he suddenly established Quantum Capital in this country.


    She fully understands how Jack highly values her as a best friend and a beneficial asset for their business.


    "Bro, you don¡¯t have to worry; I¡¯m not angry with you. I understand you did what you have to do," Bella smiled at him to reassure him that she was okay.


    Stefan was stunned. He thought Bella would scold him.


    "Thank you, sis. I promise I will not do that again in the future," he said while making a V sign with his fingers.


    Bella chuckled.


    "So, anyone accompany Harper on her trip here? Did Jack also come?" she asked.


    "No. She is alone on this trip."


    "Good...Good... you can come to my house this weekend. I¡¯ll throw a garden party for you and Harper."


    Bella was already planning a small party. She had a lot to celebrate: her mother was free from her father, the Laura Kiels matter finally ended, and her relationship with Tristan was also something they needed to celebrate, right?


    Stefan was so excited. He couldn¡¯t wait to visit Bella¡¯s house and meet Dax. He also had a hidden agenda: to meet Bella¡¯s husband in person. He had seen Tristan Sinclair a few times but only from afar, and he had never had the chance to meet him in person, let alone shake his hand and have a friendly chat.


    "Thank you, sis. Do I need to bring Dax a gift? Any idea what gift would excite him the most?" Stefan asked excitedly.


    Before Bella could answer, a woman¡¯s voice came from the door. "Stefan, isn¡¯t Dax¡¯s birthday a long time away? Why do you want to give him a gift?"


    Bella and Stefan instantly looked towards the door.


    Harper was standing near the door in her usual attire from a famous brand¡ªa glamorous black coat with tight pants that hugged her slender legs. Oversized sunglasses perched on her sharp nose. Her red coral lipstick completed her appearance. She looked just like a model wearing a new clothing product in a fashion magazine.


    "Sis, you finally came¡ª" Stefan smiled at Harper as he stood from his seat to welcome her.


    Bella felt mixed emotions as she looked at her best friend, who suddenly appeared before her eyes. She hadn¡¯t expected to see Harper today.


    Just a few days ago, she called her to ask about famous clothing brands for her mother, and Harper didn¡¯t mention any plans to visit her here. Gosh! This girl never fails to surprise her.


    Harper chuckled as she saw Bella, but the laughter faded when she realized something: Bella wasn¡¯t shocked; she was simply sitting in her seat.

 Chapter 318: Why Are You Here?

    Harper chuckled when she saw Bella. Something was wrong; when she saw, she wasn¡¯t shocked; Bella was only sitting in her seat.


    "Geez, Girl... you already know about my arrival, did you? Who the heck told you?" Harper asked.


    When Harper saw Bella didn¡¯t answer her, she turned to see Stefan with her sharp gaze. It must be him who leaked it, right?


    "Stefan, it must be you! You are the one who leaks it, right?"


    Stefan, "..."


    Knowing that Harper managed to corner Stefan and that Stefan was about to answer Harper¡¯s question, Bella immediately interrupted.


    "Harper Reed, did you feel so bored in New York that you randomly flew here without giving me advance notice? Gosh! Don¡¯t tell..." Bella paused to cover her gasp when something crossed her mind, surprised by her own thoughts. "Let me guess. Jack also doesn¡¯t know where you are here. Am I right?" she continues.


    Instantly, Harper laughed. Her laughter echoed through the room.


    "Ha ha ha, girl, you know me so well. Yes, yes... I¡¯m bored. Everyone I know has moved here," she hugged Bella tightly.


    After they hugged, Harper let go of Bella and started to scan her from head to toe. This caused Bella to step back, knowing her best friend was slightly unpredictable and liked to play pranks on them, her close friends.


    "Damn, girl! Why do you look more and more beautiful? Don¡¯t tell me¡ª" Harper covered her gaping mouth and widened her eyes, saying unhurriedly, "Have you started having beauty treatments again? Oh my God, you have! You¡¯ve changed a lot since getting back with your hubby!"


    Bella was utterly speechless. Since when did she visit a beauty center? She barely used makeup, only applying sunblock and lip gloss when she left the house or went outdoors.


    "Well, stop flattering me, Miss Reed!" Bella said, taking Harper¡¯s hand and leading her to the seating area. "Let¡¯s sit and talk; you¡¯ll grow tall if you stand too long."


    "Ha ha ha, such a cutie, Bella. You never fail to amuse me with your dry jokes," Harper said, settling into her seat.


    Bella rolled her eyes and sat beside Harper. She stared at Harper before asking in a tense tone.


    "Now, tell me why you are here, Harper Reed?"


    Harper didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, she shook her head and looked at Stefan.


    "You know what, Stefan? Your sister should have offered me a drink first, right?"


    "Yeah," Stefan grinned. But his smile faded when he saw Bella narrowing her eyes at him. He stood up. "Si-sister Harper, what do you want to drink? Let me make it for you. Is it hot coffee?


    Ice coffee?"


    Harper smiled at Stefan, "No need, dear. I was only teasing you." She continued when she saw him sitting again, "But can you leave us alone? I need to talk with Bella about something important."


    Stefan was surprised. "What are you two hiding from me?" he asked, narrowing his eyes at them. His expression slowly turned gloomy.


    These two rarely excluded him when they chatted. But why did Harper suddenly ask him to leave? He was puzzled.


    It wasn¡¯t just Stefan who was confused; Bella was too. She looked at Harper, waiting for her response.


    ¡¯What on earth does she want to talk to me about?¡¯ Bella thought.


    Harper smiled at Stefan before casually answering, "We need to talk about sensitive matters; this is about women. I¡¯m pretty sure you won¡¯t be comfortable hearing it."


    "Come on, sister Harper. I¡¯ve heard a lot of nasty gossip from you, so I don¡¯t mind." Stefan smiled, waving his hand dismissively.


    "No, no, this time it¡¯s different, Stefan." Harper chuckled, then looked at Bella beside her. "Isn¡¯t that right, Bella?"


    Bella, "..."


    She was utterly clueless about what Harper wanted to discuss.


    "Different?" Stefan said, raising his eyebrows.


    "Yes."


    "Like what?"


    A half smile slowly appeared on Harper¡¯s lips. "Like periods and how we deal with¡ª"


    "WOW! Okay, okay, ladies, you talk! I¡¯ll go upstairs¡ª" Stefan said, leaving the room as fast as lightning. He didn¡¯t care when he heard Harper¡¯s laughter behind him.


    "I¡¯m just kidding, little bro¡ª" Harper shouted, but Stefan ran away. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she turned to Bella.


    "Harper, can you stop confusing me?" Bella said seriously. She didn¡¯t have much time now. Tristan would come to pick her up any minute. "Why did you suddenly appear here?"


    "Because I didn¡¯t trust anyone, I flew here to bring clothes for your mother."


    Bella was speechless.


    ¡¯She¡¯s kidding, right?¡¯ Bella wondered while looking Harper in the eyes. But a few moments later, seeing that her expression was still the same, Bella was stunned.


    "So, you are serious?" Bella asked, still unable to believe it.


    "Yeah. And, of course, I miss you, too. So, I have a reason to visit you now. Jack will not allow me to fly to another country, taking a long holiday..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but nod.


    "Harper, you¡¯re not Jack¡¯s wife. Why do you obey him so much!?"


    "Well, girl, I¡¯m different from you. You can leave the company whenever you want." Harper paused to take a deep sigh before continuing her words. "I have a special agreement with him, but that man is starting to annoy me. He¡¯s so bossy."


    "Haha, he is indeed so bossy."


    Harper chuckled, "Besides, you all moved here. I feel like I want to move, too. It¡¯s not fun there anymore without you guys."


    "Well, you could only say it to Jack."


    "I will try. But you know him, right?"


    Bella shrugged. She sympathized with Harper, "Okay, have you booked a hotel room?" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Sam helped me."


    "Tsk! I can¡¯t believe Sam helped you hide the plan to surprise me. How dare he?" Bella vented her frustration in her mind while looking at Harper, who was laughing before her. She seemed so happy, having successfully pranked her.


    But later, her anger slowly faded as they started to talk again about their plan during Harper¡¯s short visit here. Harper would stay here for a week before returning to New York and starting her daily routine as CFO of RDF Group.


    It didn¡¯t take long before Bella stopped her sentence when her phone suddenly rang.


    She thought Tristan had arrived to pick her up, but it was not. She stared at the phone screen as if she had turned into a statue, unable to pick up the phone.


    "Bella, why didn¡¯t you pick up the call? It was Sean Spencer."

 Chapter 319: You’ve Got To Kill Her!

    Bella stared at the phone screen as if she had turned into a statue, unable to pick up the phone.


    "Bella, why didn¡¯t you pick up the call? It was Sean Spencer."


    Harper¡¯s voice suddenly brought her back from her trance. She looked at Harper, blinking a few times before she finally answered the call.


    "Hi, Bells, I¡¯m sorry... I can only contact you now," Sean¡¯s voice sounded so guilty on the other end. "I miss you so much..."


    Standing by the window, Bella held her cell phone tightly and responded calmly, "It¡¯s okay, Sean. I understand. Did your duty at basecamp settle?" she asked.


    A half-smile appeared at the corner of Bella¡¯s lips. Even though she tried to speak to him casually, somehow, inwardly, she felt utterly awkward.


    "Yes," Sean answered happily, unable to detect the awkwardness in Bella¡¯s tone. "...Well, I¡¯m getting two weeks off. I want to meet you and Dax. Where are you now?"


    "I¡¯m in the capital. When can you get here?" Instantly, Bella felt her blood run cold when she heard they were about to meet.


    "Tomorrow. Please give me your house address. I will come to you..." he said excitedly.


    Bella clenched her hands. She didn¡¯t want to talk to Sean over the phone about her status with Tristan. She needed to speak to him directly but couldn¡¯t invite him to her house.


    After thinking quickly, she decided to meet him in a safe place.


    "Sean, we can¡¯t meet at my house because my mother is now staying with me. Can you come to my office? What time can you arrive?" Bella asked, trying to hide her awkwardness.


    Sean didn¡¯t answer right away. He sounded like he was calculating his time. He finally responded after a few more seconds, "I will arrive in the capital tomorrow morning. So, maybe I will get to your office around 10 o¡¯clock. Is that okay?"


    "Alright, I will wait for you, Sean," Bella said.


    "Good. I also can¡¯t wait to meet you. I¡¯m really missing you so much, Bells." Sean felt so happy to know he would meet Bella tomorrow after so many months of not seeing her. "Alright, I will not bother you now. You continue what you¡¯re doing now. See you tomorrow..."


    "See you¡ª" she said and ended the call.


    ***


    At the police station, in the detention room.


    Laura Kiels paced back and forth, biting her thumb. A mix of fear, anxiety, and worry replaced her typically calm expression.


    "What to do? What to do? Why isn¡¯t he here yet? Did he leave me here alone? Did he abandon me?" Laura talked to herself while pacing in the small windowless room that could only accommodate two people. But right now, she was alone.


    Occasionally, she glanced toward the iron bars.


    Outside the room, she could only see a white wall. No one was walking outside, and she couldn¡¯t hear any sounds; she was alone in this desolate place.


    When she felt her feet hurting from pacing in the small room, she suddenly faintly heard a pair of steps heading toward her cell.


    Her heart raced as she moved toward the bars and tried to see who was coming. She saw a policeman walking toward her room.


    "Miss Laura Kiels, someone wants to meet you," the officer said while opening the cell door.


    "Who is it?" Laura asked while following the officer. Her heartbeat increased as she tried to imagine the person she had been waiting for finally arriving.


    She believed in him; that person, her fianc¨¦, Marco, wouldn¡¯t abandon her. He would help her out of this terrible place, out of this situation.


    The officer didn¡¯t bother to answer her. He continued to walk at the same pace toward the end of the corridor. Later, he stopped at another room. After he opened the door, he glanced at Laura, "You may enter, Miss Laura Kiels."


    Laura nodded and walked toward the room.


    When she saw the man sitting on the chair staring back at her, she frowned and halted before passing through the door. She didn¡¯t know who this man was. However, why did he seem familiar?


    Instantly, curiosity arose in her heart. She continued to walk and looked at the room.


    She saw it extended to the right, and another room on the right side was separated by iron bars. Even though the officers couldn¡¯t hear their voices when they spoke, they could see their movements clearly.


    Once again, Laura tried to remember where she had met the man wearing a black outfit with short red hair sitting opposite her.


    But no matter how hard she tried to remember, she couldn¡¯t recall where she had met this man.


    Before Laura could say anything, the man spoke.


    "Hey, just a heads up. They can¡¯t hear us, but they can read our lips. So, keep it simple when you answer or nod..." The man spoke so fast that it sounded like he was rapping.


    Laura, who heard his voice, was shocked, not by what he said, but by the sound of his voice. She knew his voice so well; it was Marco, her fianc¨¦¡ªthe man she had been waiting for to help her out of this place. He finally came!


    She nodded slightly, holding back tears. If he hadn¡¯t spoken and she saw the tattoo on his neck when he pulled his turtleneck down a little, it would have been hard for her to recognize him.


    Even though she was confused as to why he came wearing a disguise, she didn¡¯t ask anything.


    "Listen, you know what you need to do. Stay here, don¡¯t admit anything, whatever they ask you."


    She nodded slightly.


    "Even if they imprison you, you don¡¯t have to worry. I will come to help you. And, I will place a few of my people to protect you in detention or prison. So, you will be safe."


    She nodded again. Even though she felt scared, she had no choice but to believe him.


    "Make sure you don¡¯t talk about me or mention my name even once. Also, don¡¯t say anything about anything that happened to your manager that day. If you spill just a word, then... I won¡¯t be able to help you, and you¡¯re on your own."


    "Okay. I get it." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Good!"


    "Anything else you want to ask?"


    "You¡¯ve got to kill her! Kill that bitch! End her life as painful as possible; help me take revenge for what she had done to me!"


    "Who is this bitch you talk about? You mean your former boss, AD!?"


    "Yes! She¡¯s the one who got me here. I don¡¯t care how long I rot in prison as long as she¡¯s dead; I need you to get rid of her from this earth!"


    "No worries. I¡¯ll take care of her. Consider it done."


    "Thank you."


    "Alright, try to stay alive while you are here. Follow whatever your lawyer says."


    "Okay." She smiled at him.


    "I won¡¯t be able to meet you again in this place because it is risky for me to appear here. But, so that you know, I will wait for you to return."


    Laura nodded while holding back her tears. She said, "I understand. Thank you, my love¡ª"


    Marco finally left the room after saying a few more words about how he adores her.

 Chapter 320: I’m Not Alright!

    At Quantum Capital Building, around noon time.


    After talking to Sean over the phone, Bella was instantly drawn into her thoughts; she just stood there until she forgot how long she had stood after the call, which caused Harper to worry about her.


    "Bella, you stood there for so long. Is everything alright, girl?"


    Harper asked as she approached Bella, who was still standing near the glass wall even though she had finished talking on the phone a few minutes before. She is worried about her friend.


    After hearing Harper¡¯s question, Bella tried to adjust her expression. She didn¡¯t want to make her best friend worry even more by showing her gloomy and worried state.


    However, she also feels puzzled. She didn¡¯t understand, but she somehow felt like a nail had been stabbed in her chest. It hurt.


    Sighing deeply, Bella turned to see Harper with a smile framing her lips, trying to reassure Harper that she was okay.


    "Did something happen to Sean? Why do you look worried like that?"


    Bella chuckled inwardly, realizing she had failed to hide her expression. Harper still could see through her mind and heart.


    She didn¡¯t answer immediately but checked her watch before leading Harper back to the seating area. She needed to share this with her best friend.


    "Let¡¯s sit first," Bella said.


    "Bella, you¡¯re scaring me. What¡¯s happened to Sean? Where is he? Is he okay?" Harper¡¯s worry could be heard as she pleaded for answers.


    "I don¡¯t know where he is because he¡¯s on a confidential assignment. But he was fine. But Harper, unlike him, I¡¯m not! At least when it comes to Sean."


    "What are you trying to say, girl?" Harper narrowed her eyes at Bella, waiting for her to explain.


    "Why won¡¯t you be fine with Sean? Did something unpleasant happen between you and him?" Harper asked again when she saw Bella take another deep sigh, ignoring her question as if a heavy weight was on her shoulders.


    When Harper heard Bella finally return to Tristan Sinclair, she worried about Sean Spencer because she knew Bella and Sean¡¯s story.


    Whenever she visited Bella at her cabin in northern Sweden, Bella talked about Sean Spencer. She told her how Sean was pursuing her and how sure she was about him as a friend, but that was it. They had a complicated relationship. Sean chased Bella, but she always rejected him many times.


    ...


    Bella starts to tell Harper about her mistake in giving Sean a chance to think she could love another man after Tristan; if he could convince his parents to accept her and Dax, she would consider marrying him. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But in reality, she still loves Tristan. She returns to Tristan when Tristan chases her back, even after she lets Sean think he had a chance with her. And for that, she felt she needed to apologize to Sean.


    "You know, Harper... I couldn¡¯t avoid Tristan because our legal status as husband and wife still stood."


    "Yeah, I could understand you."


    Bella sighed deeply once more. Even though she was very angry with Tristan for his slow feelings towards her, she couldn¡¯t push him away.


    She felt she couldn¡¯t be selfish because she still harbored love for him despite hating him for what happened in the past. And then there¡¯s another reason. This is essential for her, so ultimately, this is the main reason. The main reason she chose Tristan was her son, Daxton.


    Harper fell silent hearing Bella¡¯s story. She was stunned to find out that, in the end, this girl gave Sean a chance. What a stupid move!


    "Well, Harper... now you know why I don¡¯t feel well. I feel like a bitch! Playing with Sean¡¯s feelings. I hurt him!" Bella felt even more hurt and gloomy, imagining how they would meet tomorrow.


    "Well, I agree," Harper said. "You are a bitch, Bella Donovan!"


    "Yeah! I accept that, Harper. I won¡¯t deny it if you label me like that. I really deserve it."


    Harper sighed deeply before she continued, "Did you give him a chance because you loved him?"


    "No, I never loved him. I told him clearly about my feelings toward him at that time, and he understands that."


    "Tsk! Sean Spencer is such a foolish man, too," Harper chuckled. "He insisted on marrying you even though you didn¡¯t love him?"


    "Hmm... He still insists on marrying me," Bella said, taking another long, deep sigh, trying to relieve her heavy chest. She remembered that she had abruptly given Sean a chance because she felt terrible for his persistence in pursuing her.


    A faint smile appeared on Harper¡¯s lips when she heard Bella¡¯s answer. "Good. Good. At least you were honest with him about your feelings. When you explain to him tomorrow, I believe Sean will understand why you chose to return to your husband..."


    "Yeah, I hope so. Well, I clearly remember that time... I also reminded him that I didn¡¯t plan to remarry because my priority now is only Dax, my son."


    "And he still insists?" Harper slowly raises her eyebrows.


    "Yeah, you know him. He is still stubborn. And Harper, you also know me, right? I don¡¯t even have plans for myself in the future... Only my son, I was warning him about that..."


    Harper shook her head slowly, looking at Bella. "You are such a strange woman, Bella Donovan!"


    "I know that. I¡¯m a strange woman. I don¡¯t know if there are women like me who prioritize their child¡¯s happiness above their own," Bella said, turning her gaze away from Harper and smiling slightly.


    Harper shrugged before she responded to Bella, "Ugh... Well, my friend, I can¡¯t relate to your feelings because I¡¯ve never had a child!"


    After a few more seconds of silence, suddenly, Bella remembered something.


    "Harper Reed, you should get married too. What are you waiting for? You¡¯re not getting any younger. Well, my friend, let me remind you, the older you are, the harder it is for you to have children," Bella said.


    Harper gave Bella a sour smile before she responded, "I know, Bella. But how could I marry if the man I like doesn¡¯t love me? And I can¡¯t marry someone I don¡¯t love, too. Right?"

 Chapter 321: Do I Need To Tell Him?

    "Yeah, I can understand that. Love can¡¯t be forced. Just like me in the past. I love Tristan, but he is not..." Bella murmured, but Harper could hear it.


    Once again, the room suddenly fell silent. Neither of the women said anything. It was as if they were lost in their own thoughts.


    However, not long after, Bella frowned and realized Harper¡¯s words earlier.


    "Wait... Wait... Harper Reed, do you have a man you love? Who is the man who stole your heart and made you not want to get married until now?"


    Harper, holding back laughter, saw Bella¡¯s curious expression. Her best friend¡¯s gaze was quite sharp as if she wanted to read her mind with just her eyes. It was priceless looking at her now.


    However, of course, she wouldn¡¯t tell her.


    "Girl, stop looking at me like that. I won¡¯t tell you! Sorry, even if you beg, I won¡¯t," Harper said, shaking her head while pressing her lips tightly, ignoring Bella¡¯s puppy eyes.


    Bella became increasingly curious. Countless questions now flew through her mind, and she couldn¡¯t help but express them. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Miss Reed, do I know him? Is he our college friend? Since when did you have a crush on him?"


    Harper just smiled while shaking her head, but not a word left her lips. She wouldn¡¯t tell Bella about that man. It would be useless because she knew she couldn¡¯t win that man¡¯s heart if she had to compete with Bella.


    "Harper, you should tell me. Maybe I can help you." Bella was still trying to convince Harper to tell her who the man was.


    "Should I?"


    "Yes. Of course..." Bella said in a meaningful tone. She really wanted to see her best friend have a happy ending with the man she loved. That¡¯s why she was serious about wanting to help.


    Harper felt her heart tighten for the first time as her mind filled with his face. She imagined she had a way to win the man¡¯s heart. Now, she was confused about whether she should tell Bella or not.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, Harper finally decided to be honest with Bella. However, Bella¡¯s phone rang before she could speak, interrupting the words on the tip of her tongue.


    She waited for Bella to finish her phone call with her husband.


    Later,


    Harper could only respond with a slight nod when she saw Bella smiling guiltily at her.


    "Go, don¡¯t make Tristan wait for you." Harper smiled at Bella, who was now standing to get her bag.


    "Let¡¯s go. I will drop you at your hotel."


    Harper shook her head and followed Bella toward the door. "No need. Sam will drive me there. Besides, I still want to chat with Stefan and Leo."


    "Alright, then... Let¡¯s continue our chat tomorrow during lunch," Bella said.


    "Okay. Lunch with you? Sounds great. I know your choice of restaurant is commendable! See you tomorrow, girl..."


    ***


    It was quiet since Tristan¡¯s car left the Quantum Capital building.


    Even after five minutes, Bella still hadn¡¯t said much. Her mind was busy thinking about her meeting with Sean Spencer tomorrow morning.


    ¡¯Do I need to tell Tristan now?¡¯ Bella thought as she turned to see Tristan, who was seriously driving the car with his eyes fixed on the road ahead.


    Once more, she failed to express what was on her mind. She put aside her worry and rested her eyes and mind. She would tell him later when they arrived home.


    However,


    Tristan, who was driving quietly, could sense his wife¡¯s anxiety aura as soon as she got into the car.


    This puzzled him because his wife was supposed to be happy since the Laura Kiels case was finally over in their favor. The police had arrested the wicked woman. They were just waiting for the investigation to conclude for trial and conviction and for her to be sent to jail.


    But why was his wife still gloomy? Stress?


    Tristan initially hesitated to ask her but eventually did so.


    "Bella, what¡¯s wrong? Why do you look worried and restless?" Tristan glanced at her when the car stopped at the traffic light. He gently smiled at her, waiting patiently for her to answer.


    Bella slowly opened her eyes and glanced at him. When she saw his curious-looking eyes, she decided to tell him now.


    "Before I left the office, Sean called me. We decided to meet tomorrow morning."


    She could see Tristan¡¯s hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. Instantly, she felt worried that Tristan would forbid her from meeting Sean.


    But what he said after that surprised Bella.


    "Oh. Okay. I will accompany you to see him," Tristan answered calmly, but she could see the tension in his eyes and on the corner of his lips as he said it.


    "Hubby," Bella slowly touched his shoulder, trying to make him relax more before she continued, "You promised to let me meet him first...alone. Did you forget about it?"


    "Yeah, I remember," Tristan remembered his promise.


    However, hearing that his wife would meet Sean tomorrow, for some reason, he felt like there was a hurricane in his chest ¡ª his fear that Sean would take Bella away from him made him ignore his promise.


    "But, I¡ª"


    "Please, Tristan," Bella stopped him to continue his words. "Please allow me to meet him first. Only this time." She spoke firmly as if she didn¡¯t want to be rejected.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything; he just looked at her in the eyes and felt mixed emotions in his heart.


    "Hubby, I need to clear everything with him. If you want to talk to him, you can do it after I meet him, please¡ª"


    "Hmm, okay. I understand." Tristan half-smiled as he stepped on the gas pedal, continuing on their way home.


    Silence fell again.


    After a few more minutes, Bella broke the silence.


    She looked at Tristan briefly and then asked, "Why are you worried about me meeting Sean Spencer alone?"


    Tristan took a deep breath before he turned quickly to look at her.


    "I know this sounds ridiculous. But I was afraid Sean would steal you from me. I was afraid¡ª"

 Chapter 322: Jealous Husband

    "I know this sounds ridiculous. But I was afraid Sean would kidnap you from me. I was afraid¡ª"


    "Hahahaha," Bella suddenly burst out laughing upon hearing his words. "What are you thinking, Mr. Sinclair? Do you think I¡¯m still a teenager with their terribly immature and naivete when talking to a man?"


    "Well, don¡¯t blame me," he said, a sour smile slowly forming on his lips. "I love you so much that, sometimes, I can¡¯t think as cool and rationally as usual¡ª"


    "Gosh! Mr. Sinclair, I told you before that I rejected him many times, even when I knew you didn¡¯t love me. You don¡¯t need to worry about my feelings towards him¡ª"


    Suddenly, the car abruptly stopped, leaving Bella shocked. She was unable to continue her words.


    Confused about why Tristan suddenly stopped, she turned to look outside. She became even more curious when she saw their car parked on a dark, empty road.


    Bella didn¡¯t know where they were. When she was about to ask if their car¡¯s engine was off, she saw Tristan undo his seat belt, which confused her even more.


    Her heartbeat quickened when she saw his face getting closer, stopping an inch from hers. She could feel his warm, minty breath brushing her face.


    "I love you, my wife," Tristan whispered near her ear before he captured her lips with his.


    "Tr-Tris¡ª"


    Tristan gently pressed his lips to Bella¡¯s, causing her words to linger on the tip of her tongue. He could feel the warmth of her tongue dancing with his, making his blood boil with the surge he felt every time they kissed.


    Her moans made Tristan feel his whole body getting hotter. But she stopped him when his hand was about to slip under her shirt.


    Bella pushed him away, surprising him.


    "Darling?" He tilted his head to try to look at her face. "Are you alright?" he asked, seeing her face turn pale.


    "Tristan, I can¡¯t breathe. I feel out of oxygen," Bella said, panting while trying to breathe evenly.


    "I¡¯m sorry..." Tristan said, smiling foolishly because he had almost caused his wife to go out of breath. He continued, "I get turned on when I kiss you..."


    She didn¡¯t say any words but smiled back at him.


    Tristan didn¡¯t move his head away. He was still an inch from her, smiling lovingly while gently cupping her face with his palms.


    "Ms. Sinclair, I really, really trust you. But I just can¡¯t stop feeling jealous of him. I¡¯m sorry," he said, feeling bad.


    "It¡¯s fine. There¡¯s no need to feel sorry, Hubby. I can understand you," Bella said. She felt amused to witness a man like Tristan admit his jealousy.


    "You are such an angel, Arabella Donovan!"


    "Yeah, I know that... Ouch! Stop pinching my nose, Tristan Sinclair!" Bella glares at him.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, but he leaned closer to her and kissed her forehead before sitting properly in his seat.


    After a few more seconds passed, he gently asked, not wanting to sound jealous, "Where will you meet him?"


    "I¡¯ve invited him to come to my office."


    Tristan felt relieved. It would be better for them to meet there, where he had many people around, just in case Sean really did try to steal his wife. He knew his thoughts were absurd and foolish. Still, he never trusted his rival, especially when that person was related to his wife.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go home now. I feel hungry and miss my little baby."


    "Yes, ma¡¯am, as you wish," Tristan said, hitting the gas and speeding to their house.


    ***


    The next morning.


    After breakfast, Tristan was busy in his home office, leading morning meetings online. Meanwhile, Bella headed to her mother¡¯s stone house.


    In the last few days, Bella had been so busy with the company that she couldn¡¯t accompany her mother to visit the cancer treatment facility. She had to rely on Geoffrey and Noora to help her mother.


    This morning, she received a report from Geoffrey about her mother¡¯s condition and the treatment plan.


    Hearing all of that, Bella felt worried but also happy because her mother had a chance to become cancer-free.


    Now, she needed to meet her mother and discuss her upcoming surgery.


    When Bella arrived at the stone house, she saw her mother cleaning the kitchen. It seemed she had just finished her breakfast.


    Bella didn¡¯t approach her mother immediately but stood silently, watching her. She felt sorry to see her mother busy cleaning the house. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had already asked her mother not to do anything and to let the maid clean the house or cook for her. Still, her mother refused, insisting that she wanted to remain active, telling her she wanted to keep mobility and flexibility agile.


    Even though Natalie stayed with her daughter¡¯s family, she didn¡¯t eat or spend her entire time with them in the main house. She would only come over if there were something to celebrate. She seems to prefer solitude.


    "Good morning, Mom..." Bella walked toward the kitchen island and smiled at her mother.


    "Oh, good morning, Bella. Oh, you came early, my dear...I thought you were already left for work."


    Natalie was surprised to see Bella. She had heard from Noora that her daughter was so busy with work, coming home late and leaving for the office early in the morning.


    "Mom, can you just relax? Let the maid clean the dishes for you..." Bella said, deeply concerned. "You will get tired if you move too much."


    Even though her mother looked healthier and happier, Bella was still worried because her cancer was still present, and she needed rest for her upcoming surgery.


    Natalie smiled at Bella¡¯s words. She didn¡¯t comment but asked her to sit while they talked.


    "I feel fine. Don¡¯t worry about your mother; I won¡¯t die until I see my grandson Dax get married," Natalie said, smiling.


    However,


    Bella felt her blood run cold at the thought of her son Dax getting married.


    Just as Bella was about to say something, Natalie continued, "Oh right, Bella. I forgot to ask you; I heard you are pregnant¡ª"


    "Cough...cough..."

 Chapter 323: Are You Pregnant?

    "Cough...cough..." Bella coughed at her mother¡¯s question. Her mother¡¯s question almost chokes her.


    "Gosh, Mother, where did you hear that!? I¡¯m sorry, Mom, but I¡¯m not pregnant..." She smiles.


    Now Bella understands why everyone in the house treats her very carefully as if she were pregnant.


    Natalie Wright raised her eyebrows slightly, looking at her daughter with a sharp, confused gaze.


    "You¡¯re not pregnant? Seriously? But why do I hear you are?"


    "I¡¯m not. Seriously, Mom, who told you that? I need to meet that person and scold them..." Bella is now curious about that person.


    Natalie ignored her daughter¡¯s question and asked again, "But you and Tristan still wanted to give Dax a little sister, right?"


    Bella was silent for a moment, trying to process her mother¡¯s words. At the same time, she remembered Tristan had been saying similar things lately, wanting to give Dax a little sister every time they made love.


    She wondered whether Tristan had spread that rumor to everyone, but later, she silently shook her head. Tristan couldn¡¯t do that; he was someone who kept most people at a distance, and talking about his personal matters was absolutely out of his character.


    However, thinking about having another child, especially a girl, made her heart swell with joy. It would be fun to have a daughter. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A smile slowly appeared on her lips, thinking she would wear twin clothes with her little daughter. Still, her smile slowly faded when she remembered how difficult it was for her to get pregnant.


    In the past, it took her four years to finally conceive Dax. Now, she¡¯s not sure if she can get pregnant again.


    "Bella, can you hear me?" Natalie asked worriedly when she saw that her daughter didn¡¯t say anything, as if she was lost in her own thoughts.


    "It¡¯s fine if you aren¡¯t pregnant; I trust you..." Natalie smiles.


    "Yes, Mom, I¡¯m really not pregnant. But we do have a plan... However, remember how difficult it was for me to have Dax; I will not have high hopes this time," Bella explained sincerely.


    Even though Bella wanted to have another child with Tristan, she wouldn¡¯t do what she did in the past. To this day, she still feels her heart hurting when she remembers the times she did IVF, and it always failed.


    Natalie could sense her daughter¡¯s sadness; she patted Bella¡¯s hand gently before trying to cheer her up.


    "Bella, I trust God will grant you another child. You and Tristan deserve it. Keep praying, dear. Keep praying..."


    "Thank you, Mom," Bella said softly, feeling the warmth in her heart, imagining she was pregnant again.


    Having experienced the challenges of being alone in a foreign country during her first pregnancy, she now wants to experience her second pregnancy with her husband and family around her. It would be a joyful experience.


    "You know what, Bella? I wanted to be there for your second pregnancy. Every step of the way. I want to help you¡ª"


    Natalie couldn¡¯t continue her words. She felt the urge to cry as she remembered the difficult times in the past when her relationship with her daughter was strained, eventually leading her daughter to run away.


    "Mother, would you mind stop talking about me? How about we discuss your surgery plans?" Bella changed the subject when she saw her mother feel gloomy; she could feel her sadness.


    Natalie nodded, knowing her daughter didn¡¯t want to speak again about those dark pasts.


    "I¡­I feel excited about the surgery...a bit scary¡­but it¡¯s for the best, right?" Natalie said. She couldn¡¯t wait to have double mastectomy surgery. Her cancer cell tissue had spread, and that was the only way to get rid of all of the cancer cells from her body.


    "Yes, Mom. It¡¯s the best option for your health. So, are you ready for the surgery, Mom?" Bella was worried.


    "Absolutely! I want to do it immediately. I want to live long, to spend the rest of my life with you and your family..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t hold back her tears when she saw her mother start to cry.


    "Mom, I pray God will grant you a long life. All right, stop crying, huh!?"


    Natalie smiled while nodding.


    "Mom, do you want me to contact Aunty Emma and ask her to come and stay with you?"


    "If it is safe for Emma to come here, it will make me happy if she is with me during my surgery day. But if it¡¯s risky, you don¡¯t have to call her. I¡¯m worried your father will trace me through Emma..."


    "Ok. I will try to find a way for Aunty to come without him knowing."


    "Thank you, dear."


    They both talked for a few more minutes before Bella finally excused herself. She must go to her office now to settle another pressing matter: meeting Sean Spencer.


    ***


    A few hours later, at Quantum Capital,


    Just as Bella stepped out of the elevator, she saw Leo pacing back and forth in the corridor near her office room.


    "What are you doing here? Are you waiting for me?" Bella asked, startling Leo.


    "Thank God! Boss, you finally came. Why didn¡¯t you answer my texts? I sent lots of messages and countless calls!" Leo said, bombarding Bella with questions.


    "Huh? You called me?"


    "Yes, countless times! And I sent so many texts, but you didn¡¯t read them."


    Bella immediately took her phone out of her pocket. She was surprised to find out that her cell phone had died. She had completely forgotten to charge it this morning. Her real life has been much more exciting and not dull lately, so no time to look at her phone.


    "Sorry, my phone ran out of battery..." Bella said, showing Leo her cell phone, then continued walking towards her office. "Why do you look so panicked?" she asked, glancing at Leo, who walked beside her.


    "Someone is waiting for you¡ª"


    ____


    *Mastectomy is a surgery in which the entire breast is removed, including all of the breast tissue and sometimes other nearby tissues. There are several different types of mastectomies.

 Chapter 324: Finally, Meeting Sean Spencer (1)

    "Someone is waiting for you¡ª"


    Instantly, Bella stopped and turned to face Leo. "He already arrived!?" she asked, checking her watch. It was only 9 a.m. Didn¡¯t she say they would meet at ten?


    "Yeah. Boss, who is he? I asked his name, but he didn¡¯t say anything. He just showed me a text message from you," Leo asked, confused about the mysterious man who suddenly visited Bella.


    "W-Where is he now?" she asked nervously, ignoring Leo¡¯s question.


    "In your office. Boss, can you please answer me? Who is he?"


    "Sean Spencer!" Bella answered before walking towards her office.


    Her heart felt tense about meeting him, but her mind was focused. She knows exactly what to do.


    ...


    Standing in his place, Leo was stunned to realize that the handsome and cold man who insisted on meeting Bella earlier was Sean Spencer.


    ¡¯Did that person come from the noble Spencer Family? Or not?¡¯ Leo was puzzled.


    He tried to remember whether Bella had ever told him about that person. However, suddenly, a female voice distracted him.


    "Sir, why are you standing here?" Dana asked Leo while approaching him. When she didn¡¯t hear his response, she followed his line of sight toward the CEO¡¯s office.


    Worried something might have happened to their boss, she turned her gaze to Leo, "Did something happen to Ms. Donovan?"


    "Dana, have you heard about Sean Spencer?" Leo asked without turning his gaze to her. His eyes were still fixed on Bella¡¯s office.


    "Sean Spencer?" Dana repeated Leo¡¯s question, perplexed by his sudden interest in Sean. The mention of that name could only bring one person to her mind. "Sir, are you seriously not knowing or just pretending?"


    "I didn¡¯t know about him. Please do tell¡ª"


    Dana gasped in surprise. It was hard for her to believe someone didn¡¯t know about Sean Spencer, one of the hottest bachelors in this country.


    "Sir, how could you not know about him?" Dana smiled; however, a second later, her smile faded when she remembered Leo was not from this country.


    "Sorry, boss. I forgot you are not from here. So, it¡¯s reasonable if you don¡¯t know about Sean Spencer," Dana grinned before continuing her words. "Do you want to know about him?"


    Leo turned to see Dana again. "Yes, please explain to me."


    He knew about the Spencer Family, but he doubted the man inside Bella¡¯s office was related to the noble Spencer family that ruled Astington¡¯s politics and military.


    "Sean Spencer is the youngest General in the Astington Military. I¡¯ve heard he is now a captain in his unit, part of the special forces. I hear rumors that his team operates outside Astington, but their exact activities are unknown."


    Dana seemed carried away, describing Sean Spencer as a hot, handsome, and wealthy bachelor in the country.


    She continued, "Nowadays, people rarely recognize Sean Spencer¡¯s face since he is active in the military and has never been featured in the media. And, you know what? His father is actually the current president of this country¡ª"


    Leo was shocked to hear that. "What the hell! You mean, Sean Spencer¡¯s father is Mr. Jayson Spencer?"


    Dana nodded in satisfaction, seeing her boss¡¯s shocked face upon hearing about Sean Spencer.


    "Wah¡ª" Leo said, gazing again towards Bella¡¯s office. ¡¯How could Bella know such a big shot?¡¯


    Leo didn¡¯t expect that the man he had just met was actually Sean Spencer, Jayson Spencer¡¯s son.


    He could already guess it because when Sean showed his chat history with Bella earlier, he saw Sean¡¯s cellphone screen, which displayed the military logo of the special forces he had seen in Sam¡¯s office.


    "Sir, why do you want to know about Sean Spencer? Have you ever seen him?" Dana asked again.


    Leo looked back at Bella¡¯s room in amazement. After a while, he said, "Not only did I see Sean Spencer, but I talked to him too..."


    "WHAT? Where? When?" Dana was shocked to hear that. Even she, who badly wanted to see Sean Spencer, never had a chance.


    "There," Leo said, pointing to Bella¡¯s office, shocking Dana. "If I¡¯m not mistaken, Sean Spencer is in that room¡ª" S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dana gasped in shock as she slowly turned to look at Bella¡¯s office.


    ***


    Bella slowly closed the door behind her, trying not to make any sound.


    She could see Sean, who had not yet noticed her presence, standing by the glass wall with his back facing her, busy calling someone. She deliberately waited for him to finish his call before approaching.


    Not long after, she saw Sean looking at his cell phone screen and trying to make another call.


    Only this time, Bella realized something: he must be trying to call her, right?


    Bella stifled a laugh while walking inside. She stopped just a few steps away from him.


    "Hi, Sean. Have you been trying to call me?" Bella smiled when she saw Sean turn to look at her with a warm smile on his face. However, her smile slowly faded when she saw him step forward with his wide stride approaching her.


    "Sean¡ª"


    Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words. In a blink of an eye, she was hugged by Sean with his broad chest and muscular arms. Instantly, her heart was beating so fast and loud. She was too shocked by his tight embrace.


    Just before Bella wanted to push him away, she heard him say tremblingly, "I really miss you, Bells! I miss you so much. I¡¯m sorry... If I came home late and broke my promise to you."


    Sean had promised her he would return in three months, but he only showed up after almost four months.


    Bella¡¯s hand clenched into a fist. Sean¡¯s words felt like a sword slicing her heart. She was supposed to be the one who apologized, not him.


    She held back from pushing him away and let him express his longing while she tried to string a few words she needed to tell him.


    However,


    She felt like all the sentences she had memorized by heart and wanted to say to him were disappearing, as if all those sentences were betraying her.

 Chapter 325: Finally, Meeting Sean Spencer (2)

    When Bella felt Sean¡¯s embrace slowly loosen, she took a step back to see his face more clearly.


    He looked handsome as usual, with a smooth and clean face, unlike people who returned from dangerous missions, which she usually saw in action movies where the leads returned with several wounds on their bodies.


    Bella felt relieved to see this man still the same as when she last saw him a few months ago.


    "Sean, come with me. Let¡¯s sit first," Bella said, walking to the sitting area without waiting for him to respond.


    However,


    Before Bella settled on the sofa, she looked at Sean, who now sat on the single sofa opposite her.


    "What would you like to drink, Sean?" She tried to act casual, but her stiff tone clarified her awkwardness.


    "As usual, please¡ª"


    "Okay." Bella immediately made her way to the minibar to make his favorite Earl Grey tea and a latte for herself.


    "Thank you, Bells..." Sean smiled at her, but his smile slowly faded when he saw her back facing him. His hand was slightly clenched as he tried to maintain his calmness.


    Sean couldn¡¯t understand why, but he sensed an apparent anxiety and unhappiness in Bella¡¯s gaze. Her smile also didn¡¯t reach her eyes as it usually did when they met in the past.


    Or was he overthinking? Yes, he must be. Bella might be nervous, just like him, after they were separated for almost four months without communication.


    Before long,


    Sean saw Bella walk to the seating area with two cups in her hands. He immediately maintained his expression, smiling at her.


    "I¡¯m glad you¡¯re finally back, Sean," Bella said as she handed him the cup of tea before sitting across from him.


    ¡¯Thanks," He accepts the cup.


    "There¡¯s something I want to tell you," she continued.


    Bella couldn¡¯t delay this; she had to tell him about her status with Tristan.


    "No, please. Let me tell you the good news first." Sean stopped Bella from speaking further.


    "Good news?" Bella was slightly surprised to hear that. At the same time, she was also worried about what he wanted to say.


    A loving smile now graced his face as he began to explain.


    "Bells, I am no longer deployed with my unit and station in North City. I am now an officer at the military base here in the capital. So, from now on, I won¡¯t have any more long overseas missions that take me away from you for extended periods," Sean explained. His tone and gaze showed how happy he was now.


    Seeing that, Bella felt her heart hurting even more. She slowly placed her empty latte cup on the table and continued to listen to him in silence.


    "And I called my mother to tell her about you. She was super happy to know about you, Bells. She invited you to have lunch with her. Can you spare some time this weekend to meet her? We can meet her in a nice restaurant..."


    Sean smiled lovingly at her as he waited for her response. He couldn¡¯t wait to bring Bella to meet his mother. But his expression slowly changed from happiness to worry when he heard her refusal.


    "Sean, I¡¯m sorry. I¡­ I can¡¯t," Bella¡¯s voice sounded slightly shaky. Her clenched hands in her lap expressed her guilt.


    Sean¡¯s worry increased when he noticed her strange expression.


    "Bells? Is there something I don¡¯t know that I need to know? Why are you apologizing? And why don¡¯t you want to see my mother?" He asked.


    Sean now realizes that Bella¡¯s attitude has changed since he saw her earlier.


    ¡¯Did I leave for too long, making her upset? And now, she no longer wants to continue our plan!?¡¯ he wondered.


    Suddenly, the scary thoughts that often arose in his mind while he was abroad returned to haunt him; Bella left and married someone else.


    "Sorry if I can¡¯t keep my promise to you. I can¡¯t give you a chance, Sean. I¡ª"


    "Wait! Wait... Bells... Wait..." Sean immediately stopped Bella from continuing. "If it¡¯s hard for you when I¡¯m missing in action for too long, I apologize...please forgive me."


    After calming the hurricane in his heart, he continued speaking, "But as I said, that was my last assignment. From now on, there will be no more long missions. I¡¯ll be stationed in this city and can always be with you."


    "Sean, that¡¯s not why I broke my promise to you..."


    A thin line slowly appeared on Sean¡¯s forehead. He heard her words, confusing him even more.


    "That¡¯s not the reason? So what?" Before Bella could respond, Sean spoke again as he realized something. "Bells, is it because of my aunt? Did something happen? Did she meet you?"


    Bella silently took a deep sigh.


    "Did you speak with your aunt before meeting me?"


    "Not yet. Could you please tell me why you suddenly changed your mind? I know I¡¯m at fault here¡ªI didn¡¯t keep my promise. I asked for three months, but now I realize I¡¯m too late. I¡¯m sorry." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It¡¯s not because of your aunt but because of Tristan¡ª"


    Sean¡¯s heart tightened upon hearing Tristan¡¯s name.


    "Tristan? Did he threaten you?" he asked, worried.


    "No, he didn¡¯t. But...Tristan never submitted our divorce papers to the court. I¡¯m still his legal wife, Sean. I¡¯m really sorry I couldn¡¯t keep my promise to you to give you time to convince your parents."


    Even though her words would hurt Sean, Bella didn¡¯t want to give him false hope. Her legal status with Tristan remains unchanged, and she cannot deny her feelings because she still loves Tristan.


    It would hurt them even more if she forced herself to be with Sean when her heart longed for and belonged to Tristan.


    "I¡¯m really sorry, Sean¡ª" No words could come from her lips now as she saw Sean¡¯s calm expression slowly turn miserable.


    As this kind and humble man showed his lowest and weakest side, sadness and disappointment, Bella could feel the pain seeping into her heart and soul.

 Chapter 326: Finally, Meeting Sean Spencer (3)

    The previously cool room suddenly felt freezing, as if the temperature had dropped below zero.


    Neither of them spoke, and the silence hung heavy in the air.


    Both were lost in their thoughts.


    Bella still blamed herself for hurting Sean¡¯s feelings.


    Meanwhile, Sean felt like he had suddenly lost his ability to speak; his mind felt blank. It was as if a black hole was sucking away everything he wanted to say.


    Sean silently looked at the woman he loved with mixed emotions. He felt mad, but he didn¡¯t know who to blame.


    Countless questions, now dancing in his mind, tortured him inside because not a single word would leave his lips. All those sentences only danced in his mind, making his head feel like it was about to crack.


    How could the woman who was supposed to be his wife have now returned to her ex-husband?


    How could that happen again?


    Why did Tristan suddenly return to her after he abandoned her?


    Is this all real, or is this just a dream?


    He pinches his hand just to make sure he is not dreaming; however, the pain he feels shatters all of his hope.


    Sean knew how Bella felt about Tristan. She still harbored feelings for him even though she never said so, and her love for Tristan was deep.


    He had tried to win her heart for many years but had never succeeded.


    Nevertheless, despite working hard to win her heart and getting rejected by her, he still tried because his love for her was also deep enough to make him willing to wait.


    ¡¯Were her feelings for Tristan the same as my feelings for her? Would they never fade, would they never end?¡¯ This question always appeared in Sean¡¯s mind whenever he heard her rejection.


    Countless times since he entered this room, Sean took another deep breath. His heart ached when he saw her lower her head, avoiding his gaze.


    Instantly, Sean wanted to scold himself for allowing her to feel sad and lost like she did now.


    Another few minutes passed, and they were both still lost in their thoughts.


    Before long,


    Finally, Sean found the question he needed to ask her.


    After adjusting his nameless emotions, he asked, "Bells, can I ask you something?"


    Bella raised her head to meet Sean¡¯s gaze. She was surprised to see him more calm now, different from before. He was no longer gloomy, and a warm smile flashed in his eyes.


    She nodded in response.


    Sean wanted to ask her if she had returned to Tristan because she loved him, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to say the words.


    He took a deep breath before finally asking her, "Did you return to him because of Dax?"


    "Yes, and you know my other reason, Sean," Bella paused to fill her stuffy heart with fresh air before continuing. "No matter how hard I try to forget him, my heart and mind always return to him. Because I can¡¯t lie to myself that when Tristan and I separated, a huge part of me still attached to him¡ª" Her voice stopped as she felt suffocated.


    Bella couldn¡¯t continue her words; she could only apologize to him when she saw his shaking eyes, which were enough to tell her he was sad.


    Once more, silence hung in the air. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For some reason, Bella wanted to escape the awkwardness between them. She longed to return to their old selves when she hadn¡¯t given him a chance. She really missed those times when she felt like they were still friends.


    Bella thought Sean would no longer discuss this matter. However, she was wrong. His next question stunned her.


    "Bells, you know Tristan never loved you, right? If you return to him, you will end up hurting yourself. You will never feel happy with him. Can you please try to forget about him and continue our plan?"


    Sean¡¯s eyes flickered with intense emotion as he fixed his gaze on her before saying, "I could help you file for a divorce."


    Sighing deeply, Bella responded with a sorry tone, "Sean, I¡¯m really sorry. I can¡¯t do that. You know, I love him... In the last few months, he showed Dax and me that he also loves me. It¡¯s Tristan who chased me back. Maybe the big chunk of me attached to him is something he only felt and realized when we were separated."


    Sean gasped in surprise when he heard that. "He chased you back? And he said he loves you? Are you sure Tristan Sinclair loves you?"


    "Yes, I can feel Tristan loves me more than ever before," Bella felt terrible telling him this. She knew she would hurt him even more if she continued her words.


    Sean¡¯s expression became even gloomier. He said nothing else, but his eyes were still fixed on her.


    He opened his mouth a few times, wanting to express his thoughts, but he failed to utter anything.


    Then, after another few minutes,


    They were both still silent, and the room¡¯s vibe was getting colder and somber.


    "Sean... can we just return to our old selves? Can we become close friends like we used to in the past?"


    He was taken aback by her words. Instead of rushing to answer, he stared at her with a complicated gaze before responding, "I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t, Bells... I just can¡¯t¡ª"


    Bella¡¯s shoulders dropped upon hearing his words.


    This is why Bella never wanted to accept Sean¡¯s feelings toward her. She always imagined she would lose him as a friend if this kind of situation happened.


    And¡ª


    What she imagined in the past was now happening. This man no longer wanted to befriend her, which made her even sadder.


    "Sean, I will respect your decision. However, I am still the same as before. You are my best friend, even if you hate me now and want to end our friendship."


    Bella felt her heartache upon hearing her own words. It really broke her heart; she wanted to cry but held back. She didn¡¯t want her tears over the breakup of their friendship to be misinterpreted.


    "Oh my God! I¡¯m sorry if you think that, Bells. I never hate you! I will never be able to hate you. But, right now, I want to stay away from you. Because I¡¯m afraid I will hurt you if I stay around you..."

 Chapter 327: Finally, Meeting Sean Spencer (4)

    Bella frowned, confused by his words.


    "Hurt me?" Bella asked.


    "Hmm," Sean said calmly, "I might take you with Dax and bring you somewhere that Tristan would never find us!"


    Bella was taken aback by his words. She considered whether Sean was joking, attempting to ease the tension between them.


    However, her heart raced when she noticed the seriousness of his words.


    ¡¯Heaven! Is he serious? Does he really plan to kidnap me and Dax?¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sean, are you joking, right?"


    "I¡¯m not joking. I¡¯m serious, Bella Donovan! Knowing that you¡¯re returning to Tristan and he loves you back is killing me. My mind can¡¯t be rational if I see you with him. So, it¡¯s better that we¡¯re not friends now, or I might do what I¡¯m planning in my mind."


    "Sean¡ª" Bella could only call his name; she didn¡¯t know how to respond to his words.


    She pressed her lips, not wanting to say anything, afraid she might hurt him even more.


    "I want to meet Dax for the last time. I hope you will allow me to meet him," Sean suddenly broke the silence. When he saw Bella looking at him, he continued, "Don¡¯t worry; I won¡¯t kidnap him. I just need to say a proper goodbye to him. Please¡ª"


    "There¡¯s no last time, Sean. If you want, I won¡¯t forbid you from meeting my son, Dax. He already knows you as my best friend; he calls you uncle. I hope you remember that and stop your thoughts about ending our friendship." Bella sincerely said.


    Even though Sean wants to cut ties with her as a friend, Bella will not take his word seriously. She can see that what he said didn¡¯t come from his heart. He is just disappointed and angry, and she knows he will heal over time.


    Sensing his silence, Bella continued, her voice filled with hope and uncertainty, "I¡¯m having a lunch party with friends and family this weekend at my house. I hope you can join us and meet Dax there. I¡¯ll send you my home address..."


    "Sure, I will definitely come," Sean replied before standing. "I will not take your time any longer, Bells." He excused himself in the most gentle tone possible.


    Bella stood up from her seat and followed him to the door, but she only took a few steps before she saw Sean stop and turn to look at her.


    "Let me walk you out¡ª"


    "No. You don¡¯t have to see me out, Bells..." Sean smiled as he gently patted her shoulder. She blinked and looked at him, surprised by his gesture.


    Before she could say anything, Sean had left the room, closing the door behind him.


    Bella stood motionless in her place, looking at the closed door with mixed emotions.


    ***


    A few minutes earlier...


    Three people stood before Bella¡¯s office: Leo, Dana, and the newly arrived Harper Reed.


    They all felt tense waiting for the door to open.


    Harper Reed had come to meet Sean Spencer in person. She had met Sean twice while visiting Bella¡¯s house in Northern Sweden and seemed eager to see him again this time.


    "Leo, how long have they been chatting inside?" Harper asked curiously. It had been almost ten minutes since she joined Leo and Dana, but the door in front of them was tightly closed.


    "I think it¡¯s almost two hours," answered Dana after checking her watch. She and Leo had been standing almost two hours in front of Bella¡¯s office, curious to see Sean Spencer in person ¡ª luckily, she didn¡¯t have much work now.


    "Wow, they¡¯ve talked for so long¡ª" Harper turned her gaze back to Bella¡¯s office door.


    "Yeah," Leo responds. He glanced at Herper, "Since when did you know Bella knew Sean Spencer?"


    "Since I visit Bella in Sweden. I met Sean there. And I met him twice. Oh right... I heard from Bella that she has known Sean since her teens."


    Leo and Dana were amazed to hear that.


    "Wow. Looks like I¡¯m the only one who didn¡¯t know about Sean?" Leo glanced at Harper.


    "I think so because I believe Jack and Stefan know him," Harper chuckled when she saw Leo shake his head, his sulky expression clearly framed on his face.


    "Boss, Miss Harper, look¡ª" Dana exclaimed when she saw the door swing open after two hours.


    Instantly, everyone looked at the door and was stunned to see Sean Spencer¡¯s tall figure, with a sturdy posture, sleek black hair, and all-black clothes, step out from inside.


    His handsome face looked calm; however, his cold aura made the air around him feel freezing.


    As the trio saw him walking towards them, they felt mesmerized and unable to tear their gaze from him or say any words. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Sean nod slightly as he passed them without saying anything suddenly made Harper react first.


    "Sean! Sean Spencer¡ª" Harper Reed called out unexpectedly. She immediately regretted it when she saw Sean stop and turn to look at her.


    "Hey¡­H-Hi..." Harper continued awkwardly while cursing herself in her heart. "It¡¯s¡­it¡¯s me. Uhmmm¡­do you remember me?" Inwardly, she scolded herself once more for her foolish question.


    Sean frowned, trying to remember the woman before him. But after trying to recall, he couldn¡¯t be sure if he ever knew this woman¡¯s name. But he did remember seeing her before.


    Harper felt her face turn hot when she saw Sean evidently struggle to recognize her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, who are you?" Sean asked, pretending to have never met her because he couldn¡¯t recall her name.


    "Pft!" Leo¡¯s soft chuckle could be heard from behind, making Harper feel even more ashamed.


    ¡¯Damn this man! How could he forget me, even though we¡¯ve met twice!?¡¯ Harper couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration inside.


    Trying to save face, she could only laugh while clenching her fists. "Hahaha, it¡¯s okay if you don¡¯t remember me, Sean. I guess it¡¯s been a while since the last time I saw you¡­.I¡­I mean, it¡¯s..it¡¯s been a while since we met¡­uhmmm, I¡¯m Harper, by the way," she said awkwardly.


    "Oh, Miss Reed?"

 Chapter 328: Embarrassing Encounter!

    "Oh, Miss Reed?"


    "Yes, yes... that¡¯s my last name. Glad you remember me. But you may call me Harper; I mean¡­please call me Harper. There¡¯s no need to call my last name." She grinned awkwardly and walked closer to him.


    "Apologies, Miss Reed; I have a weakness in remembering people¡¯s faces and names," Sean answered casually in a polite tone, but his gaze flashed cold.


    Harper, "..."


    She was frustrated, seething beneath the surface, and couldn¡¯t help but vent it inwardly. ¡¯Sean Spencer, you such a cold man!¡¯


    Maintaining Monalisa¡¯s smile, she said, "It¡¯s fine, Sean Spencer, it¡¯s fine... Ugh, are you done speaking to Bella?"


    "Yes, we¡¯re done talking; that¡¯s why I¡¯m here."


    Harper, "..."


    "I apologize, Miss Reed, but I have to go now." Sean walked toward the elevator without waiting for Harper to say anything.


    Harper felt like a cloud of dark smoke was over her head as she faced Sean¡¯s icy demeanor, just like last year when she saw him. How embarrassing!


    She stood in place, narrowing her eyes and watching Sean¡¯s back until he disappeared from her line of sight.


    Sean didn¡¯t realize he was causing a girl to vent her anger at him. He didn¡¯t have time to think about others when his own heart was filled with sadness.


    He stopped right before the elevator. His expression revealed little, but inwardly, he felt like a storm was raging inside.


    It¡¯s hard for him to understand the whole situation. He had longingly wanted to meet the woman he loved and bring her to meet his mother, but his plan ended like this.


    He lost her just like that.


    He lost her to Tristan Sinclair.


    Sean never imagined Bella and Tristan Sinclair would end up together.


    How could it be that Tristan Sinclair, who had left his wife, chased her back?


    This was too unreasonable for him to understand.


    His hands hanging at his sides were clenched tightly.


    Sean restrained himself from hitting the innocent elevator door in front of him.


    ¡¯Sean¡­calm¡­ don¡¯t let your anger overwhelm you!¡¯ He tried hard to maintain his composure.


    However now...


    He felt lost, as if he were at an intersection and didn¡¯t know which path to take.


    Sigh!


    At a time like this...


    Sean wanted to leave the building as fast as possible and calm his chaotic mind and heart. He didn¡¯t want Bella to know his deep feelings now, or she would blame herself again.


    Deep in his heart, he didn¡¯t want to see her sad¡ªhe just couldn¡¯t bear to witness that.


    "Ding!"


    The elevator arrival sound pulled Sean back from his trance. He slowly lifted his head, looking at the elevator door before him.


    Just as Sean was about to enter, he stopped when he noticed someone he knew standing inside, looking shocked to see him.


    "Sean Spencer?" the man asked in surprise.


    Sean¡¯s jade-like eyes slightly narrowed, his lips breaking into a faint smile. After so many years, he did not expect to meet this man here.


    "Samuel Brown! What are you doing here?" Sean responded while accepting Sam¡¯s friendly handshake.


    "Damn! I¡¯m so happy to see you again, Sean. I can¡¯t believe I could meet you here, at my office building," Sam exclaimed as he stepped out of the elevator with a big smile. He was thrilled to meet his old comrade after so many years.


    "So, what brings you to our office?" Sam asked again, curious to see him.


    "Wait, you work here? I thought you were in New York." Sean replied, quickly remembering every detail he knew about Samuel Brown.


    "Yes. But I must guard my boss, so I returned to our country." Sam chuckled. "Seriously, man, why are you here?"


    "Oh. I see. Hey, I just met your boss."


    Sam was surprised to hear that. "You know my boss?"


    Sean nodded.


    "I have two bosses here. Which one? Leo Smith or Ms. Donovan?" he asked.


    Sam wanted to clarify that some people see Leo as the company¡¯s boss because Bella hasn¡¯t officially announced her position as the real boss. Only the Director, managerial staff, and a few senior secretaries know her role as the CEO of Quantum Capital.


    "Ms. Arabella Donovan," Sean said.


    "Damn! That¡¯s the big boss! How do you know my big boss?" Sam gasped in surprise.


    "Yeah! But it¡¯s a long story. I¡¯ll tell you some other time. The short story is that she is my only female friend, Sam. And I have known her since her teens."


    Sam was stunned. He had never heard that Bella had a close relationship with Sean Spencer.


    Sam wouldn¡¯t have struggled to locate other retired brothers-in-arms from the Black Eagle if he had known from the beginning. He could have just asked Bella to call Sean for their latest database, trace them all, and invite them to join the Sentinel Network.


    "Ha ha ha..." Sam laughed heartily. He felt so happy. "You know what, Sean? I can¡¯t believe I ended up working for her now after we were both on the same team."


    Sam began to explain his duty to guard Bella several months ago. He also informed Sean about his new role as the Director of their new company, Sentinel Network, for the Astington branch. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sean was even more surprised to hear this information. Since returning from his mission abroad, he had heard about Sentinel Network trying to locate and recruit their retired members.


    He had already asked his people to investigate this suspicious company but had not heard anything from them.


    But hearing from Sam about the company shocked him. He didn¡¯t expect Sentinel Network to be Bella¡¯s company.


    How strange! They are now connected even in their circles.


    Sean silently sighed deeply before saying, "Well, Sam... the same as you. I¡¯m also surprised to know you work for her." He was genuinely relieved to know Bella was in Sam¡¯s capable hands.


    Sam scratched his head. "Are you done talking with my boss? Do you mind if we talk for a while in my office?"


    "Yeah, I¡¯m done talking to Bella..." Sean suddenly felt sour again, remembering his conversation with Bella. "I¡¯m sorry, Sam, I need to go somewhere. Call me if you need anything, including that talk you want. You still have my number, right?"


    "Yes."


    "Good! I¡¯ll see you around¡ª" Sean said and entered the elevator.

 Chapter 329: I Will Kidnap Her!

    As Sean arrived at the underground lobby to get his car, a Rolls Roice Phantom suddenly stopped before him, blocking his way.


    With alertness, he narrowed his eyes, staring at the car.


    ¡¯Who the hell has the balls to stop on my way like this?¡¯ Sean muttered, annoyed but also admiring the person¡¯s audacity.


    If this building had not been owned by the company where Bella works as the CEO, he would have given the driver a good beating.


    Sean tries to hold his anger; He doesn¡¯t want to make a scene and embarrass Bella. He tried to move aside to take another route to avoid the car.


    He really didn¡¯t want to overreact, let alone react violently, and his head and mind hurt too much to add any more problems.


    As Sean took a step, the rear window glass slowly rolled down. He paused, trying to see the passenger. When his eyes met the person¡¯s gaze, his heart hardened instantly upon seeing the man sitting inside, staring back at him.


    He froze, but his mind was thinking of several options he could react.


    "Hello, Sean Spencer. Would you mind getting in my car?" The man¡¯s voice is gentle, but his tone is full of a commanding aura, making Sean¡¯s hands clench tightly and his mind in alarm mode.


    Sean was ready with words to say to the man, but the man spoke again before he could find the words.


    "I¡¯m offering you to enter this car of your own accord, but I have no hesitation in taking another option to get you in my car, Sean Spencer." the man said calmly, without a hint of violent tone.


    Sean was impressed and felt challenged by his calm but commanding aura.


    Knowing his limited options, Sean gritted his teeth, stepped towards the car, and sat beside the man.


    He chuckled lightly before saying in annoyance, "Tristan Sinclair, how classy of you to make me ride with you in your car."


    Tristan ignored Sean¡¯s remark. He casually looked at him. "Don¡¯t worry about your car. Give your car keys to my people," he ordered.


    Sean felt even more annoyed, but for some unknown reason, he still did what Tristan asked. He immediately took his car keys and gave them to Tristan¡¯s man, who was waiting outside.


    "Drive," Tristan said lightly to his driver once Sean had handed his car keys.


    "What are you doing here, Tristan Sinclair? Are you trying to kidnap me?" Sean asked, amused by Tristan¡¯s annoyed expression. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although he had met Tristan a few times, this was the first time Sean had seen him show emotions like this.


    The funny thing is that just like Tristan, Sean also felt annoyed. However, even though he was angry with Tristan, Sean couldn¡¯t express it.


    Sean respected Tristan because, based on the little details he knew about this man, even though he was young compared to his father, Tristan was a good man who was one of his father¡¯s best friends and allies when he ran for president.


    He couldn¡¯t be impolite or rude to Tristan even though he wanted to.


    Tristan frowned slightly at Sean¡¯s words. But a second later, he couldn¡¯t help but laugh. "Ha ha ha... Kidnap you? Dear God, Sean Spencer, you think too highly of yourself, Kiddo!"


    "You¡ª" Sean clenched his hand tightly, glaring at Tristan in annoyance. "I¡¯m only a few years younger than you, Tristan Sinclair." He sulked, hearing Tristan call him Kiddo. Damn!


    Tristan ignored Sean¡¯s annoyance.


    "I will take you to meet your father now and inform him that you attempted to steal my wife," said Tristan, provoking Sean¡¯s anger.


    "What the hell are you trying to say, Tristan Sinclair?" Sean¡¯s outburst shocked the driver and Reid, seated in the front row.


    They both felt tense, unable to make sound, and even afraid to glance in the rearview mirror.


    Reid quickly pressed the button before his boss could ask, lifting the car divider. The boss¡¯s conversation with the young man in the back was something they couldn¡¯t hear.


    Once the divider completely separated them from the driver and Reid in the front row, Tristan turned to see Sean.


    Tristan¡¯s gaze was no longer cold but had slowly turned calm, with warmth radiating from his eyes. This made Sean, who was annoyed, suddenly frown in confusion.


    "Listen, Tristan. I¡¯ve loved Bella long before you met her. I¡¯ve always respected her choices, including marrying you in the past and now choosing to return to you after you dumped her. I will not force her to love me..."


    Sean paused to make sure Tristan understood his feelings toward Bella.


    When Tristan heard Sean¡¯s words, he felt a sharp nail stabbing his heart, but he said nothing. He listened to Sean in silence, maintaining his calm expression.


    "I don¡¯t want her to live in hell again," Sean¡¯s eyes turned sharp, like a sword ready to stab the man beside him with just his gaze. "Tristan Sinclair, you know how miserable her life was when she was your wife in the past, right?"


    Before Tristan could respond, Sean continued, "If kidnapping her could free her from her miserable life, from your old self or your toxic parents... I would do it! Because my love for her is as deep as the ocean!"


    Sean suddenly felt relaxed, as if the burden on his heart had been lifted after he had expressed his thoughts to Tristan.


    Silence hung in the air as the two men said nothing. However, their eyes were still locked on each other.


    After a few more seconds, Tristan finally broke the silence. "Sean, thank you so much."


    Sean was stunned to hear that. He frowned, noting how soft Tristan¡¯s expression was now.


    "Thank you for being by Bella¡¯s side when she was at the lowest point in her life. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Sean. I will never forget your kindness to my wife and son," Tristan said sincerely.


    Sean gasped. He didn¡¯t expect someone like Tristan Sinclair to say those words.


    His annoyance with Tristan slowly faded, but he didn¡¯t know how to respond. He just stared back at him, a thin line showing on his forehead.

 Chapter 330: Know Your Place!

    "My wife and son told me a lot about you. Hearing what they said made me realize I owe you a thank you, Sean Spencer..." Tristan said sincerely. "Thank you so much for what you did for them."


    Even though Tristan was annoyed with Sean, he couldn¡¯t hate him because this man did nothing wrong. What happened to Bella several years ago was solely his own fault. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Even though I know you love my wife, I can¡¯t hate you for that," Tristan continued, clenching his fist. He held his jealousy because this man had fallen in love with his wife long before him.


    Sean frowned, listening to what Tristan was trying to say.


    "However, you need to understand where you place, Sean. Bella is my wife, the woman I love, and my son¡¯s mother. I hope you don¡¯t have feelings for her anymore, especially since I am close to your family and your parents. I don¡¯t want my friendship with your father weakened or even damaged because of you."


    Although Tristan appreciates what Sean did for his family when they settled in Sweden, he has to draw a line so that Sean understands that there is no room for his feelings towards Bella.


    "I understand," Sean responded calmly, but inwardly, he could feel his heartache again. However, he clearly understood what Tristan had said. He knew where he stood in this situation. That¡¯s why he couldn¡¯t befriend Bella, even though his mind told him otherwise.


    Torn by his emotions, Sean was at a loss for words. His silence starkly reflected his inner turmoil. He turned his gaze away, looking in the direction of their car.


    He was surprised to realize the car was still in the business district, near Bella¡¯s company¡ªthey were just circling the area.


    Knowing this, Sean couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly. He thought Tristan would drive him straight to his father, but it seemed he was just teasing him. Sigh!


    When Tristan saw Sean, he seemed to avoid eye contact with him as if he had been deeply lost in thought. Tristan couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sean, is there something you want to say to me?"


    "Yes," Sean turned to face Tristan again. This time, his gaze was sharp enough to surprise Tristan.


    "Tristan Sinclair, do you really love her? I mean, why now? Why not before she left? Did you chase her back because of Dax?" He asked.


    Sean expressed his thoughts despite Bella¡¯s already answering the question. However, he still needed to hear directly from Tristan.


    Tristan didn¡¯t immediately answer, but a small smile appeared at the edge of his lips upon hearing Sean¡¯s question.


    He often heard this question from Bella, his grandfather, and even Isaac Donovan. His answer was always the same, but this time, he needed to clarify why he only chased Bella after she left.


    "My mind was too slow to realize that I loved her. I only felt the loss when she left. As soon as she vanished from my life¡ª" Tristan¡¯s voice trembled, recalling when he chased her at the airport but didn¡¯t find her.


    Since then, he felt like half of his soul had been lost with her, and his heart had become empty.


    He never even thought about glancing at other women because his mind was filled with only her. The memories about her never left his mind, no matter how hard he tried to forget.


    Several times, he even considered being a single man for the rest of his life if he couldn¡¯t find her again. But it seems God gave him a second chance to meet and unite with her again.


    For this second chance, Tristan vows that he will love Bella much more than she loves him. He will never repeat his stupidity of ignoring his love for her.


    ...


    Sean felt his heart shut once more when he heard Tristan¡¯s reply. He could see and feel that all the words Tristan had said came from his heart.


    He knew Tristan was honest; Tristan truly loved Bella.


    ¡¯God! So, I have no chance to win Bella¡¯s heart? Really?¡¯ Sean couldn¡¯t help but vent his frustration. ¡¯Why give me this deep love for her if I cannot be with her? Why give me hope if You never allow me to be with her?¡¯


    It was hard for Sean to understand why God didn¡¯t grant him a happy ending in his love life or why He didn¡¯t favor him.


    There were so many questions he needed answers to from God, but of course, now, there was no answer for all those questions.


    Sean silently sighed deeply and turned his gaze to the street ahead.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long for Tristan to break the silence.


    "That¡¯s my answer to your question, Sean..." Tristan¡¯s words snapped Sean back from his miserable thoughts. "Is there anything else you want to ask?"


    Sean cleared his throat before responding to Tristan.


    "Well, man... this is not a question, but I want to inform you that I will meet Dax this weekend."


    Tristan frowned at that. Before he could ask Sean what he meant, Sean spoke again.


    "There¡¯s nothing I want to ask you. You can ask your driver to stop..." Sean said while glancing behind. He could see his car following theirs.


    Even though Tristan was confused by Sean¡¯s words, he still asked his driver to stop the car.


    "What do you mean about meeting Dax!?" Tristan asked before Sean stepped out of the car.


    "I will definitely come to the lunch party at your house¡ª" Sean said and stepped out of the car. He didn¡¯t bother to glance at Tristan, who was still confused by the sudden mention of a lunch party.


    "Lunch party?" Tristan muttered while watching Sean get into his own car. He didn¡¯t know there would be a lunch party at his house; Bella hadn¡¯t told him about it.


    "Sir, where do we go now?" Reid asked, glancing at Tristan through the rearview mirror.


    "Office¡ª" Tristan answered as he took out his cell phone. He needed to ask his wife whether she had arranged a party or if Sean just wanted to piss him off.

 Chapter 331: He Will Heal Over Time

    In Bella¡¯s office at Quantum Capital, Harper Reed sat opposite Bella.


    She stared silently at Bella, who seemed to be in a trance since entering her office a few minutes ago.


    Harper had asked Bella several times about her meeting with Sean. Still, Bella only gave her a confused gaze and zero words, making Harper even more curious.


    She still remembered seeing Sean looking annoyed when he left Bella¡¯s office earlier. From his look, Harper guessed that Bella and Sean¡¯s meeting didn¡¯t go well for him. And now she knows it didn¡¯t go well for Bella, either. Bella looked distressed and unable to say a word to her.


    This was the first time Harper had seen Bella look distressed and perplexed.


    With a deep sigh, Harper walked to the minibar to make coffee lattes for herself and Bella.


    Before long, Harper returned to the seating area. She saw Bella still pensive in her seat, staring at the cloudy sky outside.


    Harper shook her head and placed Bella¡¯s cup of latte on the table.


    After she settled beside her, she said, "Bella, I promise I won¡¯t ask again about your meeting with Sean. But you need to return to yourself, huh?"


    Harper¡¯s voice was filled with genuine concern. But Bella still ignored her.


    "Alright, girl. You need to drink your latte. It might help you feel better quickly," Harper continues. She no longer looks at Bella but enjoys her coffee while looking at the scenery outside.


    An amusing smile frames Harper¡¯s lips. She finds it hard to believe the weather outside seems to mirror Bella¡¯s gloomy mood.


    "Wow, even the universe feels gloomy just like you, Bella Donovan," Harper said casually, not expecting Bella to respond.


    After a few more minutes, the silence still hung in the air.


    Harper glanced at Bella a few times to check if she was feeling gloomy, and of course, yes.


    However, Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It didn¡¯t take long; a faint smile appeared on Harper¡¯s lips when she saw Bella finally drink her coffee latte.


    This was a good chance for her to speak again, hoping that this time, Bella would no longer give her the silent treatment, which she disliked the most.


    "Girl, I know something happened between you and Sean earlier. But... can you stop giving me the silent treatment?" Harper said, smiling bitterly at Bella, who still kept her mouth shut.


    "Damn Bella Donovan! If you keep your mouth shut, I¡¯d better return to New York now!" Harper said while placing her empty glass on the table, trying to stand up from her seat.


    However, before Harper could stand, Bella glanced at her, panicked.


    Harper laughed inwardly, happy her trick worked; Bella finally paid attention to her.


    "Okay, girl, tell me what happened," Harper said softly. "Please, don¡¯t torture yourself. Share it with me, like you always do, okay?"


    Bella took a deep breath, hearing Harper¡¯s words. Harper was right; she needed to talk to someone to lessen her confusion.


    "You know what, Harper," Bella¡¯s voice sounded hoarse and low. "Sean wants to end our friendship. He said he didn¡¯t want to be friends with me anymore. Why did he do that? Why doesn¡¯t he want to be friends with me?"


    Harper was surprised to hear that. But she could understand why Sean decided to do that; the poor man must be heartbroken to know the woman he loves returned to her husband.


    Now Harper understands why Sean looked so chilly when they talked earlier; he must be hurt.


    "What should I do now, Harper? Do I need to talk to him again?" Bella asked again, causing Harper to look at her with sympathy.


    Bella had tried to be strong when talking to Sean before, but she felt like her heart shattered the moment he left the room. This wasn¡¯t the first time she had broken Sean¡¯s heart, and knowing he was hurting again made her feel like she hated herself.


    Harper looked concerned at Bella, especially when she saw her eyes slightly red.


    "Oh, my dear friend Bella... you don¡¯t have to do anything. Just give him time to heal. He didn¡¯t mean what he said. Sean is a reasonable, kindhearted man of honor fella. Believe me, Sean will return to his usual self over time.


    So, don¡¯t be too drown in sadness like this."


    Bella narrowed her eyes at Harper, her voice slightly raised, and she felt curious about Harper¡¯s words, "Harper... Is it true that Sean didn¡¯t really mean what he said? Are you sure?"


    "A gentleman like Sean? Of course...one hundred percent sure!" Harper continued, trying to calm Bella for her confidence.


    After a few more minutes of silence, she could see from Bella¡¯s eyes and lips that she finally felt much better. It seemed like her friend could now put aside her unreasonable worry about Sean.


    To keep Bella from overthinking the meeting with Sean and make her smile, Harper chatted about lighter subjects, such as the recent celebrity¡¯s silly gossip, until the clock screamed lunch.


    Leo and Sam come knocking on Bella¡¯s office as Bella and Harper are about to leave.


    "You guys came at the nick of time." Harper stood from her seat, looking at the two men standing near the door. "Do you want to eat here or go outside?" she asked. Then, she looked at Bella. "How about you, Bella!?"


    Before Bella could answer, Sam said, "There¡¯s no need to go outside. I¡¯ll cook for us." He offered, surprising Bella and Harper as they stared at him.


    "You cook? You? Cook?" Bella asked. She had never heard anything about Sam¡¯s cooking skills.


    "Yeah. Sam secretly is a talented chef, Boss¡ª" Leo smiled. Leo had already tasted Sam¡¯s incredible cooking in the last few months. He has concluded that he was in love with Sam¡¯s cooking. It matched the cooking of professional chefs he had ever tasted, including his favorite French restaurant, Chez Henri.


    "Yes, Boss, I can cook. But don¡¯t listen to Leo; he¡¯s praising me too much..." Sam smiled while rubbing his forehead. "Boss, let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll grill meat for us."


    Bella could see that Sam was very confident about his cooking. So, she nodded and followed them upstairs.

 Chapter 332: The Blacklist!

    Later, they all arrived on the twentieth floor.


    At the same time, Stefan emerged from his computer room looking messy, wearing a crumpled white T-shirt and sweatpants.


    Stefan was shocked to see Bella and the others appear before him. His hand hung in the air before he could scratch his hair.


    "Oh, sister... why are you all here?" He asked, confused.


    "Sam will cook for us, so we are all here to wait," Harper said while walking to the living room.


    Stefan, also in love with Sam¡¯s cook, smiled as he looked at Sam. "Bro, don¡¯t forget about me. I¡¯m also hungry now," he grinned. Then he turned to Bella, "Sister, follow me. I need to discuss Donovan Group with you."


    Following Stefan to his computer room, Bella felt tense, anticipating news about the Donovan Group.


    Furthermore, Bella was also eager to hear about her abusive father.


    Since arriving in this city with her mother, she has not received any updates about her father or older brother, Henry¡ªwhether they were still searching for her mother.


    Bella wanted to call her aunt, but she was holding back. She tried to limit communication with her Aunt Emma, worried her father would put a spy or bugs in her aunt¡¯s house.


    "What¡¯s happening there? Is everything under control?" Bella asked curiously as she settled onto the single sofa, her eyes beaming with anticipation for any news from Stefan.


    Stefan was excited to share the good news with Bella.


    "Well, congrats, sis... You are now the biggest shareholder of the Donovan Group. We acquired more than fifty percent of the Donovan Group shares, and you can now hold a shareholders meeting if you want to change the company management." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was no longer surprised to hear about Stefan¡¯s success in acquiring company shares. But her question was, did they buy them at the lowest price?


    She wanted to make them all suffer, especially her uncles and Father, who owned a significant share in the company.


    "You bought them at the lowest price, right?"


    "Of course, sister. Don¡¯t worry, you didn¡¯t spend much money to buy them all...only a dime on the dollars!"


    "That¡¯s perfect, Stefan!"


    "The funny thing is that your father and uncles have sold almost all of their company shares, keeping only around five percent. How foolish of them!"


    Stefan chuckled, feeling joy in helping his sister seek revenge against her father and uncles.


    Bella¡¯s smile couldn¡¯t hide how happy she was now. Her plan to take over the Donovan Group would soon be achieved.


    "You did a great job, Stefan. Thank you¡ª"


    Notably, her father and uncles would be left with a small living space and a few dimes for their daily expenses. She would ensure they were penniless the moment she took over the company.


    "But sister, you have to clean up the mess in the company faster."


    Stefan¡¯s words caused Bella to frown slightly, unable to grasp what he was trying to say.


    "Bro, can you say it clearly?"


    Stefan explained that the company is facing legal issues due to a bribery case involving government officials from several years ago, which caused all business partners to rush to sever their ties with the Donovan Group.


    The company is suffering financially because it has lost its source of income and is using its savings to pay employee salaries.


    As the company¡¯s stability worsened daily, some top employees started to resign, affecting the company¡¯s reputation.


    If the Donovan Group does not resolve the matter quickly, it will become an empty shell company. It will be hard to recover, and it might go bankrupt and beyond revival.


    Stefan sighed deeply, looking concerned at Bella.


    "So, Sister... I hope you don¡¯t delay solving this matter. I suggest you arrange a shareholder meeting immediately and announce that new management will take over the company."


    Bella smiled faintly when she heard Stefan¡¯s long explanation. She had already anticipated all of that and had made a plan for the company¡¯s future.


    Everything she is doing now at the Donovan Group is not merely a way for her to take revenge on her uncles and Father. Of course not. She had thought about the fate of the thousands of employees in the Donovan Group.


    She will not allow the company to go bankrupt and make thousands of workers unemployed in a short time. She refused to become a corporate raider.


    "Stefan, no worries, I have a clear plan for the company..." Bella said casually.


    Stefan frowned but didn¡¯t ask anything, only listening to her continue her words.


    "You just need to carry out the plan we discussed. After acquiring a number of shares, wait two weeks to summon them to a shareholder meeting," Bella reminded Stefan again, worried that he had forgotten about all of her plans.


    "I still remember your plans, sis. No worries. Trust me." Stefan lightly chuckled. "But, Sis... may I ask you something?"


    "Sure. What do you want to ask?"


    "What exactly is your plan with the company after you take over? Why do you look so calm knowing the company is on the verge of bankruptcy?" Stefan asked curiously, noticing how calm she was.


    Bella smiled at Stefan before she responded.


    "I just want to find out who our allies are in the future. If they stay with us when the company is having trouble, they are true partners," she explained but paused when she saw Stefan¡¯s shocked expression.


    She continued, "Likewise with employees, from directors to those in the lowest positions, I need to test them all too. Those who stay and work their ass off when the company is in trouble are the people who deserve to be promoted later when I take over the company."


    "But those who decide to abandon their position while the company needs to run normally will be blacklisted. They are traitors or my Uncle¡¯s followers." Bella said.


    "Blacklisted?" Stefan frowned.


    "Yes, they will not be able to be hired at the Donovan Group, RDF Group, or Sinclair Group. I will ask Tristan to put them on the blacklist."


    A sinister smile slowly framed her pretty face before continuing, "Ah, this blacklist also applies to all companies that leave or cut ties with Donovan Group. They will not have a chance to get business cooperation with us!"

 Chapter 333: Lucas Donovan’s Suspicions

    Stefan couldn¡¯t help but clap, satisfied with Bella¡¯s epic plan for the company.


    "You know what, sis? Now I really believe what Boss Jack always said..."


    "What did he say?" Bella¡¯s eyebrows slowly rose, curious to know what Jack had been saying about her to Stefan.


    "Boss Jack said you are so ruthless in business. That¡¯s why he needs you to take care of Quantum Capital in this country."


    Bella was speechless.


    "Jeez... what does he mean I¡¯m ruthless? I¡¯m not, alright?" A faint smile framed her face before continuing. "I only try to be nice to my enemies. I give them what they ask for¡ª"


    "Hahaha, alright, sis, you are not ruthless; you are only being nice."


    "Yes, that¡¯s the right word." Bella grinned.


    "OK, sis, I will follow your plan." Stefan gave her an O sign with his fingers, confirming that he understood what she wanted.


    After hearing Stefan confirm that he would carry out her plan, Bella was satisfied. She also told him that she could only return to East City after her mother¡¯s surgery. Once she returns, she might stay for a few days to clean up the entire company.


    After finishing talking about the Donovan Group, Stefan suddenly remembered Lucas Donovan.


    "Sister, do you want to know about your father?"


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s eyes beamed with curiosity. She nodded, "Yes, please¡ª"


    "Your father is going crazy," Stefan stifled a laugh. "He¡¯s still trying to find your mother. He sent many people to look for her. Your father seems to want to turn East City upside down."


    Bella could only shake her head slowly while smiling, imagining her father venting his anger and frustration because he couldn¡¯t find any trace of her mother.


    "Sister, you need to be careful. It seems your father and brother are starting to suspect that you are the one who helped your mother. Your father asked people to look for you in this city..."


    Her smile gradually faded when she heard that. "He sent people looking for me here?"


    "Yes, that¡¯s the information I found. Also, they are coming to this city to meet your grandfather. According to my collected data, they will arrive in this city tomorrow."


    Instantly, Bella could feel her blood run cold, knowing her father would visit this city.


    "Do they know my grandfather¡¯s house address?" Bella asked, worried. Her mother¡¯s location could be exposed if her father knew her grandfather¡¯s address.


    "I¡¯m not sure¡ª" Stefan didn¡¯t have that information. He only knew that Bella¡¯s father and brother had booked plane tickets to the capital tomorrow.


    Bella asked if Stefan knew what exactly her father had discussed with her Grandpa over the phone. She was curious and worried because her Grandpa hadn¡¯t mentioned anything to her about this.


    It was odd because her Grandpa usually discussed things with her before making any decisions, especially concerning her father.


    "Yes, but I didn¡¯t hear their conversation. Because this relates to your Grandpa, you forbade me to do that, right?" Stefan explained. He knew there was communication between Lucas and Isaac Donovan, but he didn¡¯t record or even listen in.


    Bella nodded. She said nothing but took her cell phone out of her pocket and called her grandfather.


    On the third ring, she was surprised to hear her grandfather¡¯s butler, Nick, greeting her from the other end.


    "Hello, Young Miss¡ª"


    "Nick, can I talk to Grandpa? There¡¯s something important I need to discuss with him," Bella¡¯s tone was urgent enough to raise Nick¡¯s concern.


    "Pardon me, Young Miss. The master is having lunch with the Young Master and your mother. If I may ask, would you like to talk to him now, or would you prefer to wait until they finish with their lunch? I think they will finish in about twenty minutes..."


    Bella sighed slightly. If she talked now, her mother or Dax might get suspicious. But she was also eager to know what exactly her Grandpa had discussed with her father, as it was related to her mother¡¯s safety.


    "I will talk to him later. But can I ask you something, Nick?"


    "Yes, please, Young Miss..." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You were there when Grandpa and my father conversed, right? So, have you overheard anything about the conversation between Grandpa and my father?"


    "I¡­I don¡¯t really know the details of their conversation. But it seems your father insisted on meeting your grandfather to discuss company matters."


    "Did Grandfather give him permission to meet?"


    "Yes. They will meet tomorrow."


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s heart sank. Her concerns were valid, and her fear became even more apparent knowing this.


    Bella suspected that her father¡¯s reason for meeting her grandfather was merely an excuse to discuss office matters. She believed that her father wanted to check on her whereabouts and see where her grandfather lived, as her family suspected she lived with her grandfather in the capital.


    "Why didn¡¯t Grandpa tell me?" Bella muttered softly, venting her worries to herself. "Father would know about me, Dax, and Mom..."


    Nick immediately responded as if he knew Bella¡¯s concerns. He said, "Young Miss, don¡¯t worry, the Old Master won¡¯t meet your father at this house but somewhere else."


    Bella breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing that.


    "That¡¯s good to hear, Nick. I hope Grandpa will keep my mother¡¯s location a secret."


    "I am sure he will. Young Miss, I¡¯ll tell your grandfather you wish to see and talk to him as soon as he finishes lunch."


    "That would be very nice of you, Nick. Thank you very much."


    After ending the call, Leo entered the room and told them that lunch was ready.


    Bella immediately followed Leo and Stefan, who were walking ahead of her. She was hungry and curious to try Sam¡¯s cooking.


    When she arrived at the dining area, Bella saw Harper sitting and smiling at her.


    "Everything alright?" Harper whispered as soon as Bella sat beside her.


    "Yes. Stefan just updated me about my family matters. You know about the Donovan Group, right?"


    "Yeah, I heard about it yesterday from them. I feel sorry for you, girl. I hope you can sort things out soon¡ª"

 Chapter 334: Lunch Party Invitation

    "Yeah, I heard about it yesterday from them. I feel sorry for you, girl. I hope you can sort things out soon¡ª" Harper said in genuine concern.


    "We are almost there," Bella replied bitterly. She felt her problems had doubled since she returned to this country. Both her family and Tristan¡¯s family awaited her around every corner.


    "Harper, Bella, would you girls mind to stop talking?" Leo¡¯s voice distracted them as they looked at him. "There are delicious foods before us. Let¡¯s eat¡ª"


    They stopped talking, their eyes fixed on the delicious dishes on the table.


    Bella¡¯s eyes beamed when she saw steak, stir-fry vegetables, and fried rice served in the middle for them to share.


    "Oh, is this Hibachi fried rice and steak?" Bella asked excitedly, looking at Sam, who was sitting opposite. She remembered eating this dish at her favorite Japanese restaurant.


    Bella loves fried rice combined with steak. However, even though she likes fried rice, she is very picky about it. If it doesn¡¯t taste good, she won¡¯t eat it.


    "Yes, Boss. Stefan said you are fond of steak Hibachi fried rice with veggies on the side, so I made this for you. Try it," Sam said as he finished arranging all the food on the table. He placed the fried rice, the steak, and the veggies in separate big bowls, with the biggest bowls filled with fried rice.


    "Wow! Stefan told you about my weakness! I can¡¯t wait to taste it, Sam,"


    Bella¡¯s voice filled with excitement as she began to fill her plate with a few slices of meat and fried rice. She decided to taste the fried rice first, leaving the vegetables untouched.


    She hoped the taste would remind her of the small Japanese restaurant she had discovered near her apartment in Central Park.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to put a spoonful of fried rice into her mouth but smiled when she saw all eyes focused on her as if they wanted to hear her opinion.


    When she finally tried a spoonful of fried rice, her eyes widened, surprised at how similar it tasted to her favorite Hibachi fried rice.


    "Wow! This is good, Sam¡ª"


    "Glad you like it, Boss. Now try the steak," Sam said, his eyes beaming, looking at Bella excitedly and worriedly.


    When the piece of meat entered her mouth and melted with the black pepper barbecue sauce, it left her speechless. She stared at Sam incredulously. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After she swallowed, Bella placed her cutlery on the plate and raised her thumbs to praise him.


    "Oh my god! This is heavenly delicious, Sam. You are indeed a talented chef..."


    "Really? It¡¯s that good?" Harper, who had not yet eaten, immediately followed Bella and tried her steak. Instantly, her expression mirrored Bella¡¯s. She was impressed with the delicious grilled meat.


    "Wow! Sam, this is so delicious!! You should open a restaurant, Sam!" Harper also praised him with her thumbs.


    "Girl, can you both stop praising Sam? If you continue, he might fly to the moon. Hurry, hurry, eat, or Stefan will finish all the meat before you know it..." Leo chuckled when he saw Stefan¡¯s hand hanging in the air.


    Bella and Harper stopped speaking and turned to see Stefan.


    Stefan was embarrassed, having almost emptied all the meat and fried rice on the table. Now, all eyes stared at him as if they wanted to say, "Seriously?" with their gaze. He could only grin and let them take the remaining food on the plate.


    Not long after, the lively lunch finally ended.


    Before everyone returned to their offices, Bella invited them to her house for a weekend lunch party.


    "Wow, you are so kind, Bella. After so many months of working for you, you finally invited me to your house," Leo said sarcastically.


    Bella, "..."


    A half-smile appeared on his lips before he continued, "Can I bring someone?" Leo asked casually, but his question stunned everyone in the room.


    They looked at him with huge questions plastered on their foreheads.


    Bella was the first to ask, "Who is the lucky person you would bring to my lunch party?" she asked curiously.


    "Wow! You finally found your new love, Leo?" Harper couldn¡¯t help but comment. Her tone couldn¡¯t hide how curious she was about the girl who could tame Leo¡¯s cold heart. "I¡¯m so proud of you, brother¡ª"


    Leo¡¯s face slowly turned dark when he heard that.


    "What the hell are you both talking about, Harper?" Leo said, looking at Bella and Harper. He scolded them through his gaze, but the two women ignored his sulkiness.


    "Oh, you haven¡¯t expressed your feelings to her yet?" Harper asked casually.


    "Ah, so you¡¯re only interested in her? But she hasn¡¯t returned your feelings yet?" Bella chimed in, adding fuel to the fire.


    "Come on, Leo... You should bring that girl to meet me. I¡¯ll help you make her fall in love with you." Harper giggled.


    Leo, "..."


    "Forget it! I won¡¯t bring anyone," Leo responded. He was now afraid to bring Dana to the party, worried that these two would scare her off if she discovered his feelings.


    "Why?" Harper felt disappointed hearing Leo¡¯s refusal. "You should bring her, Leo... I will help you."


    "Yes, bring her."


    "Damn! You both will scare her," Leo narrowed his eyes, looking at them as if he wanted to ask them to stop meddling in his love life.


    "Who the hell is she¡ª"


    Bella¡¯s palm landed on Harper¡¯s mouth to stop her from speaking. Harper could only glare at Bella, but eventually, she shut up.


    After Bella keeps Harper shut her mouth, she turns her gaze to Leo and smiles at him, "Leo, bring her. I promise you, we won¡¯t ask her anything."


    Leo didn¡¯t respond to that but stood from his seat.


    "Alright, girl, I won¡¯t say anything more about it. I will head to my office now. I have so many things to do. Bye¡ª" Leo said and walked like running toward the elevator.


    He was too nervous; Bella and Harper could guess the woman she liked.

 Chapter 335: Know Leo’s Love Interests

    "Geez, he is so secretly..." Harper chuckled as she saw Leo¡¯s back vanish from her line of sight. Then, she glanced at Sam and Stefan.


    "Do you guys know who the woman Leo¡¯s like!? Spill the tea, guys." Harper asked.


    Sam shook his head while continuing to tidy the desk. Try to ignore the question.


    Harper chuckled. She looks at Stefan.


    "How about you, Stefan?"


    Stefan, who had just put down his cutlery, frowned when he saw Harper¡¯s curious gaze.


    "What is it?" Stefan asked, clueless about Harper¡¯s question. Earlier, he was too busy eating and uninterested in their discussion.


    "Do you know Leo¡¯s girlfriend?"


    Stefan¡¯s expression clearly showed reluctance. "Leo has a girlfriend? Since when?"


    Harper frowned, doubting Stefan didn¡¯t know about it. She could see he seemed to be hiding something. She didn¡¯t give up; she turned to Bella. "You ask him..."


    "Stefan, you know about it, right?"


    Stefan took a deep sigh while looking Bella in the eyes. He didn¡¯t have a chance to lie to her. He could only be honest, "Yes, I know."


    "Who?"


    "His secretary," Stefan said, feeling sorry for Leo.


    Sam and he were aware of Leo¡¯s feelings for Dana, but Leo never had the courage to express his feelings to Dana; he only often talked to them about her.


    Bella and Harper were surprised to hear that.


    "Which one?" Bella asked curiously. She knew Leo had so few female secretaries who helped him.


    "The one with pixie-cut hair..."


    Instantly, a faint smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips. She knew who that woman was because only one secretary had a pixie-style haircut.


    "Alright, thanks for the info, Stefan," Bella said while standing from her seat.


    "Bella, you know about that?" Harper asked, matching Bella¡¯s step toward the elevator.


    "Yes, I know about that." Bella glanced at the curious Harper. "Let¡¯s go. I will show you who the lucky girl is."


    ***


    The next day.


    Isaac Donovan decided to meet his son Lucas Donovan and Henry at the Starlight apartment in the city center.


    He owned this property and usually stayed there when visiting the city.


    When moving to this city, Isaac didn¡¯t choose this place; he preferred his house at Little Heaven to live with Bella and Dax because he knew his great-grandson needed a lot of space to run around.


    Isaac Donovan sipped his green tea while looking calmly at his son and grandson sitting across from him. Since they arrived, they only exchanged greetings, making him impatient to wait any longer.


    They sat in the spacious living room for about ten minutes. Still, Lucas Donovan had not yet mentioned what he wanted to discuss.


    Isaac put his teacup on the table and narrowed his eyes at his foolish son.


    "Lucas, this is my nap time. You should talk now, or I will go to sleep," he said.


    Isaac¡¯s sharp gaze was enough to make Lucas snap. However, before Lucas could say anything, Isaac continued, "Talk now, or leave my house¡ª"


    Lucas clenched his hand into a tight fist before he spoke.


    "Father, we very badly need you in East City. Please, you must return to East City. We have serious problems with the company..."


    Lucas began, expressing his thoughts about the Donovan Group. His older brother, Jacob Donovan, had asked him to discuss this with their father.


    He informed his father that his younger brother, Thomas Donovan, might face imprisonment or have to pay a hefty fine to the government for bribing officials to secure a business project.


    Lucas also mentioned how the value of their company¡¯s shares had fallen to the point that several shareholders were selling their shares at the lowest price, but no one wanted to buy.


    Isaac listened in silence, trying to maintain his ease and calm to prevent himself from showing interest.


    "Father, if you don¡¯t return to help us, then I believe there will be no more Donovan Group in a few months."


    Lucas¡¯s voice sounded shaky. He was too emotional, thinking their family company would end.


    When Lucas was about to continue, he noticed his father looked calm. There was no clue he was sad or angry that the company he built was about to go bankrupt.


    ¡¯Why does Father look so relaxed? Why doesn¡¯t he seem to care about what happened to the company?¡¯ Lucas thought. Just as he was about to ask, Isaac spoke. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Why are you telling me about that? Did you forget I no longer have authority in the company?" Isaac said calmly, shocking Lucas and Henry. They didn¡¯t expect him to refuse to help this fast.


    Henry was utterly stunned. This was the first time he had seen his grandfather refuse to help the company; he didn¡¯t even care that his youngest son was facing prison time.


    "Grandpa, even though you no longer work at the company, how can you be indifferent to the company you built yourself?" Henry couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    "Oh, my dear Henry... your grandfather will soon leave this mortal world. So, I no longer care about worldly matters like company, wealth, or whatever. I will let you, young people, handle these matters. Do you understand?"


    Henry, "..."


    "Grandpa, why do you say that? You¡­you are still young and healthy..." Henry was speechless.


    "Hahaha, thank you for your compliment, Henry. But your Grandpa is no longer useful. Even if I return to East City, I won¡¯t be able to help the company..." Isaac said while gazing at Lucas.


    Isaac¡¯s smile slowly faded before he said, "Don¡¯t expect anything from me, Lucas. I won¡¯t be able to help you or your brothers..."


    Lucas¡¯s expression hardened upon hearing that. Just by looking at how serious his father was, Lucas knew seeking help from him was a dead end.


    However, he needed to try what his older brother asked him to do.


    He sighed deeply before saying, "Father, my older brother mentioned wanting to borrow some of your property to help pay off our debts and help our younger brother..."


    No matter how angry he was at hearing his son¡¯s words, Isaac Donovan tried to control his emotions and silently took a deep breath before speaking.


    "You and your brother are so greedy!"

 Chapter 336: Greedy Sons!

    "You and your brother are so greedy!" Isaac¡¯s sharp gaze locked with Lucas.


    He continued, "I already handed over my property and even my company, and now you still want my other assets, too! Are you trying to push me to my grave early, son?"


    His heart hurt deeply. He had lost count of how often his sons had disappointed him. He felt he had failed to raise them; their hearts and minds were focused only on money and power. They had become soulless people.


    How embarrassing!


    When Lucas saw his father¡¯s annoyed expression, he immediately clarified his words earlier.


    "Father, please accept my apologies. What we meant is that we only intended to borrow your property. We assure you we will return it if the company is no longer in trouble."


    Isaac took a deep breath. Lucas¡¯s explanation didn¡¯t lessen his disappointment. He was suddenly tired of talking to his son and needed to end this conversation.


    "I understand what you mean. But, Lucas, go back to East City. Tell your brothers I can¡¯t help with the company or Thomas."


    "Father, please¡ª"


    Isaac raised his hand to stop him from continuing his words.


    "I told you never to engage with any dirty business, not even the murky ones, when we are this big! But you and your brothers never listen and never learn." Isaac stood from his seat and asked Nick to see Lucas and Henry out of his apartment.


    Lucas¡¯s shoulders sank, knowing they could not get anything from their father.


    "Father, wait...please... Wait..." Lucas stopped his father before he walked outside. "I know you know about my daughter, Bella. Can you give me her address? I have something important to discuss with her."


    Isaac abruptly halted when he heard Lucas mention Bella. He turned to look at Lucas with a dark expression as if a storm cloud loomed over his head.


    "Why are you looking for Bella?" Isaac Donovan furrowed his brow, restraining his anger, recalling how foolish his son was to trade his daughter to an older man.


    "You want to sell her again? Are you really her father? How could you have such an idea, Lucas Donovan?" Isaac continued scolding his son.


    Lucas gritted his teeth. "Of course not, Father. I won¡¯t do that again," Lucas said. He was stressed because his friend Bradley blamed him for Bella¡¯s refusal and what had happened to his company.


    "So, why are you looking for her?" Isaac asked. He was still suspicious that his son had other motives for finding Bella.


    "I just want to know where she lives because¡­you know¡­ she¡¯s my daughter," Lucas replied. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas thought Bella would stay with his father in this place. Still, seeing the house, which was not very big and showed no trace of Bella ever having set foot there, he now believed that his father only lived there with Nick, his butler.


    "I don¡¯t know where she is. But the last time I spoke to her, she said she lived abroad. Be frank with me, and don¡¯t insult my intelligence, son. Why do you want to know where she lives?"


    "She lives abroad?" Lucas was shocked. He thought Bella lived in this city, so he sent many people to look for her.


    The last information he heard was that Bella worked at the Quantum Capital building. However, since the incident when Bradley sent gangsters to capture her, Bella never appeared near that building again, as if she had moved to another company.


    After thinking quickly about his family matters, Lucas decided to be honest with his father.


    "Alright, Father, I¡¯ll be honest. The reason is that I need to find Natalie. She left our house a few days ago, and somehow, I believe Natalie is now in Bella¡¯s house. That¡¯s why I want to find¡ª"


    "Bwa ha ha ha..." Suddenly, Isaac¡¯s booming laughter echoed in the room, stopping Lucas from continuing his words. "Oh, Lucas, I¡¯m so glad Natalie finally left you. She should have done that years ago."


    Lucas¡¯s face hardened instantly as he remembered how Natalie had left him.


    Despite feeling a solid surge of anger, he couldn¡¯t express it in front of his father. He could only clench his hand tightly and curse Natalie for what she had done.


    "I don¡¯t know where Bella or your wife is! You might go now, Lucas. I feel exhausted and need to take a nap." Isaac continued to walk and signaled Nick, who stood near the door, to send Lucas and Henry out.


    Isaac no longer cared to talk to his son and grandson. He was too mentally and physically exhausted to hear how annoying his kids were.


    All his sons were too greedy; money blinded their eyes and ears. His decision to leave the company mattered to them, and it was the right one; he no longer needed to stress about it.


    Entering his bedroom, Isaac¡¯s dark expression slowly faded when he saw his granddaughter, Bella, sitting at the work desk at the end of the room, facing the laptop in front of her.


    His smile slowly appeared on his lips when he saw Bella looking at him.


    Isaac stepped into the sitting area near the work desk and asked her, "Are you satisfied with what you saw and heard?"


    Bella closed her laptop and joined her grandfather. After sitting in front of him, she nodded.


    "Yes, thank you, Grandpa, for letting me eavesdrop on your conversation with your sons¡­.I mean, my father," she said, smiling when she saw him chuckle.


    "Well, Grandpa, your acting is terrific. My father and Henry didn¡¯t doubt what you said about me. They believed it right away." Bella continued, complimenting her grandpa with a thumbs-up.


    Last night, after chatting with her grandfather, Bella decided to hear their conversation. That¡¯s why, since morning, she has been in this apartment setting up the camera to see and hear their meeting.


    "Thanks to you, Bella... You¡¯ve told me what my stupid son wanted to talk about. So, I could pull off my acting skills¡ª"


    Isaac laughed happily; however, it didn¡¯t last long. His laugh stopped when he remembered how his son asked for more property to sell to cover the company¡¯s debts.


    What a shame!

 Chapter 337: I Need Your Help, Bella

    Bella failed to notice her grandfather¡¯s sad expression when he thought about how humiliated his sons were.


    "Grandpa, so what do you want to do with Uncle Thomas?" Bella asked.


    Even though she wanted to punish her uncles and father, Bella was a little worried about her grandfather¡¯s feelings about Thomas Donovan being thrown into prison for his past bribery case. So, he needs his opinion about it.


    Isaac was silent for a moment, turning his gaze outward, trying to weigh what was best for his sons, especially the youngest.


    Only this time did Bella finally see her grandfather¡¯s sadness and feel sorry for asking about this matter.


    However, she had no choice but to ask her grandfather¡¯s opinion to protect his feelings. As for herself, she didn¡¯t care about her uncles and father because she didn¡¯t have a close and harmonious relationship with them.


    When she saw her Grandpa looking confused, she continued, "Well, Grandpa, I can help Uncle Thomas avoid prison. If you want me to stop, I will ask my people¡ª"


    "Don¡¯t..." Isaac Donovan returned his gaze to Bella, stopping her. "Don¡¯t do anything. Let the legal process continue. If he is guilty, let him serve his sentence. Don¡¯t help him!"


    Bella was slightly surprised to see the seriousness in Grandpa¡¯s eyes. She thought her grandfather would plead forgiveness for his youngest son, but the way he spoke now clearly showed he didn¡¯t have a plan to do so.


    Isaac¡¯s voice trembled with regret as he started to share his heartache with Bella.


    "You see, Bella, my three sons are where they are now because I failed them. I didn¡¯t teach them the value of hard work or the importance of learning from failure. They were raised in privilege, always seeking instant success, and never understanding the process of failure."


    After trying to calm his anger inwardly, Isaac continued, "My sons have become what they are now. They want to succeed through shortcuts, bribing the authorities, or committing any violations to achieve their goals because I failed to educate them properly."


    "Gr-Grandpa," Bella faltered, unable to finish her sentence as she saw her grandfather trying to hold back tears and blaming himself. She empathized with his sadness in silence.


    "Haah..." Isaac let out a deep breath while trying to smile at Bella, even though his smile failed to reach his eyes.


    "This is all because I have pampered them since they were young. Now I regret it too much." Isaac paused again to take a deep breath before continuing, "Well, my granddaughter, like I said to your father earlier, I won¡¯t do anything about what happened in East City. But I need you to help me with something." Suddenly, his eyes turned sharp, and he looked at Bella.


    "Yes, Grandpa, please say so..."


    "Several children of my old friend work at the company. I hope you don¡¯t touch them if they are good, but you can do anything with them if they don¡¯t work properly."


    Bella nodded, agreeing with her grandfather¡¯s request. "Sure, I will¡ª"


    "Good! Also, please ensure that no employees are harmed by this matter. If the company is unable to provide ongoing employment, ensure that they receive their retirement funds."


    "Understand, Grandpa."


    "I sincerely hope that you can bring the Donovan Group back to the level of success it had in the past. Good luck, my dear."


    "Definitely. I will make the Donovan Group the number-one company in East City again. Don¡¯t worry about it, Grandpa. I have big plans for the Donovan Group. Right now, I¡¯m just cleaning up and figuring out who is an enemy or a friend deserving cooperation."


    "Good. Good..." Isaac¡¯s gloomy smile slowly changed. His smile returned to his eyes; no deep sadness was left, which relieved Bella.


    After several minutes of discussing the Donovan Group matter, Bella finally excused herself. She needed to return to her office; she had a lot of work to finish before the weekend arrived.


    However, when Bella left the room, she saw Nick pacing in front of it, looking tense.


    "What¡¯s wrong, Nick? Why do you look like a debt collector is chasing you?" Bella asked.


    They saw Nick stop in front of them. His expression still looked the same: anxious and worried.


    "Sir, Young Miss¡­ I just got information. Your father has placed several people in this building and outside to monitor the situation. It seems like you can¡¯t leave the apartment immediately, or they¡¯ll know you¡¯re here."


    "What the hell, Lucas Donovan! Doesn¡¯t he believe me? I thought he believed me when I said Bella was not here but abroad?" Isaac said, annoyed.


    "Grandpa, relax. Don¡¯t be angry. If your high blood pressure flares up, Nick and I will be the ones in trouble." Bella smiled, trying to calm Grandpa down.


    Isaac Donovan took a deep breath, trying to calm his mind and heart and suppress his anger towards his son. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You¡¯re right, Bella...You are right. It would be annoying if I went to the hospital because of my stupid sons..." Isaac smiled slightly before he continued. "But it looks like you will be stuck here," he said, leading Bella to sit in the living room. "Alright, let¡¯s sit and talk."


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. Instead, she turned to Nick, who still looked tense, and followed them.


    "Don¡¯t worry about it, Nick. I¡¯ll take care of all those people. They¡¯ll be gone in no time¡ª" she said, taking out her cell phone to call Stefan while settling opposite her Grandpa.


    The phone call was picked up on the first ring. She immediately asked Stefan to check on her father¡¯s spies surrounding the building.


    "Bro, I need you and the boys to kick all of them out of here as soon as possible. I need to get back to the office without those people coming at me or following me when I exit the building," Bella said casually.


    Isaac and Nick, overhearing her, were surprised to learn she was capable of doing that. They exchanged gazes as if asking through their gaze, "Who did she call?"

 Chapter 338: Caught In The Act!

    "Don¡¯t worry, Sis. Consider it done! Uhmmm¡­.Give me five or ten minutes, and then consider it done. I¡¯ll take care of them all..."


    Stefan answered while his fingers started dancing on the keyboard to check the CCTV near and inside the building. He needed to locate all those people before sending the information to the apartment security.


    He could also send the information to the police station near the building, reporting his suspicions about the people carrying bombs or being a group of kidnappers monitoring their targets.


    He had so many ideas to kick them out as fast as possible. Just thinking about all his ideas was enough to make Stefan feel excited.


    "OK! I¡¯ll wait here while enjoying my latte, then. Good luck, bro..." Bella smiled as she ended the call.


    After Bella finished talking on the phone, she was surprised to see her grandfather and Nick¡¯s suspicious gazes directed at her.


    "Grandpa? Nick? Why are you both looking at me like that?" Bella asked with a slight chuckle.


    "Who did you call?" Isaac asked curiously. Clearly, it wasn¡¯t Tristan because Bella¡¯s voice sounded casual as if she was talking to her younger brother, not her husband, or not with her employee.


    "Oh, he¡¯s my friend who¡¯s an expert in computers," Bella grinned, ignoring her grandfather, who was still looking at her suspiciously.


    Bella turned to look at Nick. "Can you make me a coffee latte, please!? I need my caffeine¡ª"


    "Sure, young miss," Nick answered, disappearing into the kitchen.


    "You mean he¡¯s a hacker?" Isaac asked again. He still doubted her answer.


    Bella chuckled upon hearing his question. She felt amused to recall how her son, Dax, had influenced her grandpa with technology. Recently, her grandpa had picked up many new terms related to computers and coding, like hacker stuff.


    "Oh, please, Grandpa... OK, just for your information, not all computer experts are hackers." Bella stifled a laugh while looking at her grandfather, who was still suspicious of her.


    "If he¡¯s not a hacker, how could he get the people downstairs to leave this building? He must have checked the CCTV surrounding this place, right?"


    Bella was speechless.


    After seeing how curious her grandpa was, she finally nodded but didn¡¯t say much about it.


    She immediately changed the conversation so her grandfather would no longer ask about Stefan.


    "Oh right, Grandpa, don¡¯t forget we will have a lunch party at my house tomorrow. I invited a few of my office colleagues to lunch with us. You can come too if you want to meet my friends..."


    "Sure, sure, dear... I will definitely come."


    ***


    Meanwhile, in the basement, in a black sedan, Lucas and Henry sat in the back seat.


    Henry was busy scrolling through social media, looking for interesting content. At the same time, Lucas called Jacob Donovan, his older brother, to report to him.


    Lucas reported that their father refused to help and lend them the property to sell. He also informed him about their father¡¯s refusal to help their younger brother, Thomas Donovan.


    "Bro, stop asking me to talk to Father again. It¡¯s no use; Father rejected me outright. I advise you to meet him yourself or ask Emma to do it," Lucas said in a desperate tone.


    "Damn it! Dad has abandoned us! He is really cruel to us." Jacob¡¯s anxiety could be heard from the other end, making Lucas shake his head in stress. "Lucas, Father likes you, even favors you, more than me. If he rejected what you said, I¡¯d think whatever I say to him would be rejected, too."


    "Yeah. You know what? That¡¯s why you have to persuade Emma to do it. To talk to Father." Lucas took another deep breath. "Don¡¯t tell me to talk to Emma too, bro. I already annoyed and angered her when I asked about my wife¡¯s whereabouts."


    "What the hell with your wife, Lucas!? Why did she run away from you, and how the hell can¡¯t you find her? She¡¯s your fucking wife, for god sake!" Jacob Donovan asked in annoyance.


    "Bro, stop asking me. I don¡¯t even know the answer. That damn woman is giving me a headache. She¡¯s really pissed me off like I have never been pissed off before!"


    "If you find her, you have to teach your damn bitch a lesson. Don¡¯t let something like this happen again. She mocked your authority! Don¡¯t you know that?"


    "Yeah, yeah. I know! I¡¯ll lock her at home so she won¡¯t have a chance to run away again. She is so stupid!"


    While Lucas angrily talked to Jacob, Henry, who sat beside him, felt worried. He turned his gaze to his father, "We have to move now, Dad..."


    Henry¡¯s sudden voice made Lucas stop mid-sentence. Looking at him, he said, "Why do we have to move? We must stay here waiting for your sister or mother to appear."


    "Look over there, Dad..." Henry said while pointing at one of their people¡¯s cars parked near the basement lobby.


    "Huh?" Lucas said, confused. When he saw what Henry pointed out, he immediately hung up the phone. "Why did the police approach their car? Do the police know we¡¯re stalking someone?"


    "Sir, it seems so," replied the driver sitting behind the wheel. "We have to move now, sir. If they know we¡¯re in the same group as them, they might take us to the police station for interrogation."


    "What are you waiting for? Come on! Fucking drive the car!" Henry hurriedly ordered the driver. He didn¡¯t want to deal with the police in this city.


    "No! No! Stop, don¡¯t drive now! Not yet!" Lucas shouted, confusing the driver and Henry. "Before you drive, you must check if our people on and around the building are still on standby."


    Lucas was determined not to fail this time. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that his father was hiding something.


    When his father claims that Bella is abroad, Lucas is sure that Bella is actually in the city. There was no way his father didn¡¯t know where Bella was.


    The driver quickly contacted other groups. However, after calling several times, no one, not one group, picked up his calls, which frightened him. He called another person; after the fifth ring, the phone finally connected. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Get out! Get the fuck out of the building! We have been exposed! Everyone above has been arrested. I managed to escape because I was on guard on the farthest side of the building¡ª"

 Chapter 339: Arrested

    The connection was lost instantly, shocking the driver. He couldn¡¯t say anything; he could only throw his phone on the side and start the car engine, preparing to leave the basement.


    "What happened?" Lucas was confused when he saw the driver look panicked.


    "Sir, someone exposed us. We have to leave this place, or the police will capture us too," the driver answered, hitting the gas pedal harder, avoiding the basement lobby, and heading to the exit route.


    "What the hell! Who exposed us? Does anyone know about this plan? Did anyone betray us??!" Lucas asked; his tone was a mix between annoyed and feared. He checked behind them, relieved when he saw no car or person chasing them.


    "Fuck! Fuck! I really don¡¯t want to have anything to do with the police in this city. We don¡¯t have any support here. This is not our city!" Henry shouted, panicking as he checked their surroundings. "Dad, we have to avoid this..."


    Their car suddenly stopped before Lucas could say something to Henry, shocking them both.


    "What the hell? Why you¡ª" Lucas¡¯s voice trailed off as he saw what was happening.


    "Sir, I¡¯m sorry, we¡¯re caught too," the driver said as he turned off the car engine. He couldn¡¯t move; two cars were blocking their way out, and a few police officers were standing there as if they were already waiting for them.


    "Okay, calm down. We¡¯re not doing anything wrong here. Tell them we just met my father. Don¡¯t panic! And brush away that panic look from your face! Get it?"


    Lucas warned the driver before he rolled down the window as two male police officers approached their car.


    "Hello, officer. Good afternoon. Excuse me for asking, but why are you blocking our way? Is something happening in this building?" asked the driver politely, trying to maintain a calm expression.


    "Afternoon, sir. I apologize for stopping you here. We need to check your vehicle. We have an incredible reason that your car is suspected of being involved in illegal drug transactions," the police said casually. Still, his words were enough to shock them all.


    "Drugs? What the hell? Who is involved with drug transactions?" Henry couldn¡¯t help but curse, visibly shocked.


    Lucas immediately rolled down the window beside him to clarify with the police officer.


    "Sir, that¡¯s not true. We just came here to meet my father. He is one of the prominent residents of this building. He lives on the 15th floor; you may contact or talk to him now. He will support me¡ª" Lucas said calmly, but his shaking tone couldn¡¯t hide his anger.


    The police officer glanced at Lucas and smiled.


    "Sure, Sir. You shouldn¡¯t be too worried. We are here not to make any unreasonable arrests. However, we need to check this car. Please, everyone, step out of the car to allow us to check the car thoroughly..."


    ***


    While the police questioned Lucas and the others, Bella quietly exited the elevator. She walked quickly toward Bryan¡¯s black SUV, parked near the basement lobby.


    Bella knew Stefan wouldn¡¯t quickly send the police to this place. She suspected Bryan, who had dropped her off here and must have known what happened downstairs while her father was talking to her grandpa upstairs.


    "Bryan, were you the one who called the police to arrest them all?" she asked. After she sat in the back seat, her eyes stared at the police officers surrounding the car.


    She was still amazed when Bryan called her a few minutes ago, telling her that the underground lobby was safe and asking her to come down immediately.


    "I¡¯m not the one who did that, ma¡¯am. It was your husband. He knew these people would spy on you in this building, so he planned all this..."


    "My husband?" Bella was surprised to learn that. She didn¡¯t know Tristan had been preparing this plan since last night.


    Gosh! How sweet he is.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..." Bryan said while slowly driving their car toward the exit.


    When their car approached Lucas Donovan¡¯s car, the police directed them to use the other lane to exit the building.


    Bella was confused when she saw her father and brother leaving the car. Their faces look tense and pale.


    "Bryan, why are the police searching their car?" she asked, glancing at Bryan.


    "Boss Tristan reported that they were involved in illegal transactions. I think it¡¯s a drug transaction."


    "WHAT?!" Bella was shocked to hear that. She continued her words while staring at her panicked father and brother. "How could Tristan think that far?"


    A faint smile escaped her lips after she could no longer see them. She felt satisfied teaching them both a lesson, especially her father, for hurting her mother.


    "Gosh! My husband is so creative. How could he think of that? No wonder the police came so fast to arrest them..." Bella chuckled and texted Tristan.


    Bryan glanced at her in the rearview mirror.


    "Well, Boss Tristan came up with a wild plan, ma¡¯am..." Bryan wanted to say that, but he held back. He focused on driving out of the building and heading to Quantum Capital.


    Bella texted, "Hubby, I know what you did. Thank you for your help (Love Emoji)."


    After pressing the send button, she smiled and glanced out the window. The sun shone brightly at noon, and the sky looked clear, just as her mind felt. She was delighted to teach her father and brother a lesson.


    She didn¡¯t know how far this situation would involve her father, but she hoped he would leave the city soon.


    It didn¡¯t take long; her cell phone vibrated. She saw Tristan reply to her text.


    [Tristan] What? Oh, Bryan must have told you about what I did, huh? It¡¯s my duty to protect my pretty wife. No need to say thank you, my dear... (Kiss Emoji) (Grinning Emoji)


    [Tristan] So, where are you now?


    [Bella] Heading to my office. I will arrive in a few minutes. I¡¯ll call you.


    [Tristan] I look forward to hearing your lovely voice, darling. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 340: Bella’s Decision

    Bella arrived at her office.


    Just before she turned on her laptop, there was a knock at the door.


    "Please come in," she said, her brow slightly raised when she saw Stefan walk in with a tense expression. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sister, you won¡¯t believe what happened to your father," he said, taking out his cell phone to show her the CCTV footage he had just obtained.


    "What happened to my father?"


    "The police arrested your father and your brother. They are now being taken custody at the police station¡ª" Stefan looked confused as he held out his cell phone to show Bella the video recording of her father and her brother being led into a police car.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything as she accepted Stefan¡¯s cell phone. She watched the video footage calmly, witnessing how her father and Henry led to the police car.


    A few seconds later, Stefan noticed a thin line slowly appearing on her forehead as if she were deep in thought.


    He continued to explain, "Sis, this is so strange. I haven¡¯t sent anything to building security, let alone the police, so why has your father been arrested? Who reported it to the authorities? I know you didn¡¯t report to the police. Who else could be?"


    Stefan scratched his head, utterly confused by the situation. Before sending all the evidence about the stalkers he found to the building guard, he tried to check the CCTV footage.


    And,


    What he found shocked him. The police had already arrested several people at the location. Still, he was even more shocked when he discovered that Lucas and Henry Donovan had also been arrested.


    Bella smiled at him while returning his cell phone. She said, "Thank you, Stefan. You did a great job helping me¡­"


    "Sis, but I did nothing. I didn¡¯t call the police to arrest them¡­" he replied, confused.


    "Yeah, I know. Actually, my husband reported it to the police," she explained.


    Stefan was surprised to hear that. His eyes widened as he said, "Wow! Your husband is so fast. Now, I believe he has a strong hacker behind him. Do you know him?"


    He was impressed by the person who worked alongside Tristan Sinclair.


    Knowing that a powerful hacker had worked in this city, he was curious to meet that person. He thought that person might be his friend in the hacker community. But who?


    Bella felt a wave of anxiety as she noticed the curiosity in Stefan¡¯s eyes. She knew who Tristan¡¯s hacker was but couldn¡¯t bear to expose Max. Despite her trust in Stefan, she couldn¡¯t betray her husband.


    She shook her head before confessing, "Well, I don¡¯t know. You can find out yourself if you want to know¡ª" This was the best answer she could find to respond to him.


    "I will¡­ I will¡­" Once more, curiosity flashed through his eyes as he excused himself to go upstairs to find the hacker¡¯s identity.


    ***


    After Stefan left her office, Bella took out her cell phone and called her husband.


    "Hi, wifey... You finally called me. I¡¯ve been waiting for your call." Tristan¡¯s cheerful tone surprised Bella. "I was about to call you. I thought you forgot about me¡ª"


    Bella settled into her seat before responding, "I¡¯m sorry, hubby. I just spoke to my IT guy, and he told me about my father and Henry..."


    "Oh, right; I also want to discuss them with you." Tristan¡¯s voice turned serious.


    "Why did the police take them to the station? I thought you only wanted to distract them and help me get out of the building," Bella asked, confused. She didn¡¯t expect there to be drugs in her father¡¯s car, leading to their arrest.


    "Oo, I apologize, dear..." Tristan felt sorry because he hadn¡¯t told her about his plan the previous night.


    Bella¡¯s frown deepened as she heard him apologize, but she said nothing, waiting for him to finish his explanation.


    "Sorry, because I didn¡¯t discuss my plan with you. In fact, I had someone place something in your father¡¯s car. When the police searched it, they found that item. Even if your father and brother deny knowing about it, the police still need to question them."


    "I see¡ª" Bella was speechless, amazed by his plan to put drugs in her father¡¯s car. How does he know about the car his father would use?


    Before Bella could ask, Tristan spoke again.


    "Do you want them to stay in prison or not?" Tristan asked. "I can have my people release them immediately or let them stay there for a few more weeks. You decide..." he suggested.


    Bella didn¡¯t respond immediately. She felt like she was at a crossroads, unsure of which path to choose. She wanted to throw her father and Henry in jail, but she also didn¡¯t want to.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, she found her reason.


    She finally decided. "Hubby, please let them out of there¡ª"


    Tristan was slightly surprised to hear that.


    "Are you serious?" He thought she would gladly imprison her father and brother to teach them a good lesson and take her revenge.


    Bella rested her back against the chair, looking at the white ceiling above. She could feel Tristan¡¯s concern in his tone.


    "Yes, I¡¯m sure. I need my father and brother to witness how I take over the company. It won¡¯t be fun if they don¡¯t attend the shareholder meeting, right?"


    Tristan chuckled, understanding her plan.


    "Besides, I also feel slightly nervous with them in this city. What if they find out about us and use your name to escape? I can¡¯t imagine that happening¡ª" This was one of her biggest concerns now: tarnishing Tristan¡¯s reputation.


    "Hahaha," Tristan¡¯s soft laugh rang in her ears, making her heart flutter. "My darling, you don¡¯t have to worry about me. If your father tries anything, I¡¯ll take care of it," he said, his heart feeling swell at her thought to protect his name. How sweet she was.


    She remained silent, but a bitter smile crossed her face as she pondered the possibility of her shameless father resorting to underhanded tactics to achieve his goals.

 Chapter 341: Weekend Finally Arrived

    Bella remained silent, but a bitter smile crossed her face as she pondered the possibility of her shameless father resorting to underhanded tactics to achieve his goals.


    "Alright, my darling. I¡¯ll have my people help them out," Tristan said.


    "Thank you, hubby. Please ensure they don¡¯t stay in this city too long. Also, ensure none of the people my father hired to spy on me or my mother stay in the city." She asked.


    She didn¡¯t want her father to know about her and her mother¡ªnot until she completed the process of taking over the Donovan Group. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sure. I¡¯ll do anything for my woman as long as she¡¯s happy," Tristan said softly.


    Bella laughed at his words. "Oh, come on, Mr. Sinclair, stop flattering me with your sweet words."


    "I¡¯m not trying to flatter you, ma¡¯am. I was just stating my responsibility to make my woman happy. Hahaha..." Tristan laughed happily, continuing, "Ugh, alright, my wife, I¡¯m sorry to end our chat so early. I have a meeting in a minute..."


    Tristan¡¯s regretful tone made Bella slap her forehead slightly. She forgot it was office hours; her husband must be busy.


    "Ugh, I¡¯m sorry, hubby, if I interrupted your meeting..."


    "It¡¯s fine, my darling. My meeting hasn¡¯t started yet," Tristan said with a smile, looking down at the busy street below. He wanted to go to her office and then go home to play with their son. "I¡¯ll pick you up as usual."


    "Alright. I won¡¯t take up your time. Go work, Mr. Sinclair, and earn a lot of money for our son and me. I love you¡ª"


    "I love you more!"


    After ending the call, Tristan didn¡¯t leave his place immediately. He smiled while looking at his cellphone screen, but a few seconds later, his smile faded as he remembered he was in the middle of a meeting.


    He sighed deeply before putting his cell phone in his pocket and turning back to see several people sitting behind him.


    Tristan cleared his throat before casually walking back to his seat.


    "You can continue your presentation," Tristan ordered, sitting in his seat and looking at one of the financial directors to continue his presentation.


    Everyone in the room finally took a deep breath after their boss, who had asked them to keep quiet when he suddenly halted the meeting to take a phone call, allowed them to continue.


    Earlier, they had heard him talking to a woman. Despite their curiosity about the woman¡¯s identity, no one dared to make any sound or loud sigh; they just froze in their seats and breathed slowly while hearing the other side of their boss speaking so sweetly to someone else, completely opposite to his usual frosty and noble demeanor.


    While the finance director was starting his report, Tristan quickly texted Reid to ask him to help his father-in-law out of the police station.


    Tristan also gave a few other instructions before returning his focus to his work.


    ***


    Finally, the weekend arrived. It would be a special weekend for Bella.


    Today was the day Bella hosted a lunch party at her house. Since the morning, she had been busy in the kitchen, ensuring all the food they would serve was ready.


    Even though the chef responsible for the menu had explained everything to reassure her that everything would be alright, she still felt tense.


    Bella was anxious not to disappoint her guests as it was her first time hosting a party for her friends. She was particularly nervous because she wanted to impress Harper and Stefan.


    She also hoped Sean would attend this party so Tristan could meet him. She knew that Tristan wanted to ask about her meeting with Sean, but he hadn¡¯t mentioned it since.


    This worried her because she was concerned that Tristan¡¯s relationship with Sean or his parents could worsen. So this lunch party would help them meet and talk.


    After talking with the chefs in the kitchen, she continued to check the venue.


    Today, there will be an outdoor lunch party by the lake in the backyard.


    Geoffrey and Noora arranged the venue, and they had been busy setting up a beautiful outdoor dining area d¨¦cor since morning.


    They placed a long table with twelve chairs facing each other and adorned it with fresh flowers and ornaments.


    Looking at the beautiful venue that Geoffrey and Noora had set up, Bella suddenly remembered her wedding day.


    After exchanging her vows with Tristan, they had a small garden party by the lake at Grandpa Lewis¡¯s lake house. Only close family and friends attended the wedding party, and the decor was similar to what she now sees. It makes her feel like going back to that day.


    "Young miss, why do you look tense? This is only a lunch party. No need to worry; everything will be alright," Noora said, pulling Bella from her thoughts.


    A half-smile framed Bella¡¯s face as she glanced at Noora standing by her side.


    "I¡¯m not tense. I just want to make sure Harper won¡¯t make fun of me. You know her, right? She has a sharp tongue." Bella chuckled, thinking about her sassy best friend.


    Noora instantly laughed, recalling Bella¡¯s best friend, who used to visit them at their cabin. Although Harper constantly complained about everything, she ultimately accepted whatever they offered her. She is a typical young lady from a super-rich family who visits the countryside despite its limited facilities.


    "Miss, don¡¯t worry. I am pretty sure Miss Harper will praise you this time. Believe me, the situation here is different from our cabin back then." Noora tried to lessen Bella¡¯s worries.


    "Yeah, I hope so," Bella said while smiling. "OK, I will head inside first. If you need anything, please call me immediately, Aunty. I¡¯d love to help. I¡¯m excited I could be the host and the lunch organizer simultaneously!"


    ***


    At Quantum Capital Building.


    While Bella is busy preparing a lunch party for her friends, Leo paces in his apartment bedroom.


    Leo glances at the cell phone in his hand now and then, feeling nervous, and continues walking.


    After a few more minutes of back-and-forth around the room, he finally stops and sits on the sofa, leaning against it. His eyes stare blankly at the ceiling, wondering whether to call Dana and bring her to the lunch party.

 Chapter 342: Brave Himself

    "Should I call her?"


    Leo whispers to himself as he looks back at his cell phone. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Would Dana agree if I asked her out now? Is it too sudden? Would it make it too obvious that I have a crush on her?"


    "What the hell, Leo? Calm yourself down! You are smart, rich, and handsome! And this is just a trivial matter, unlike the responsibility you bear at work. This is just a matter of calling...Dana."


    Once again, he took a deep breath while closing his eyes, trying to calm his confused mind.


    Leo had never felt anxious and worried like this since he last felt it when his girlfriend back then suddenly asked to break up with him for a trivial reason; she asked for a breakup because she was too busy and didn¡¯t have time to date him. She felt selfish if she continued the relationship without giving it the attention it deserved.


    At the time, he accepted what she wished for as he realized he also felt the same way¡ªbusy in the company and seldom thought about her at work.


    However, a few days later, he found out his ex was actually dating another man¡ªand that person was way wealthier than him.


    Since that incident a year ago, a betrayed and fooled Leo has decided to stop dating. He¡¯s not sure how long it will take, but romantic relationships are not his priority this time.


    He¡¯s afraid of meeting a woman who might cheat on him and feels traumatized by the experience.


    However, everything changes when he meets Dana Collins.


    His feelings toward her were unexpected. This woman had stolen his attention and, with that, a slight of his breath since the day they met. The day he interviewed her to become his secretary.


    But Leo was afraid to show his true feelings to Dana. He worried she would think he was unprofessional, which would scare her off, and also because he was her Boss.


    As a result, he never openly expressed his attraction to her, and their relationship remained strictly professional as Boss and secretary.


    "You¡¯re an idiot, Leo. Didn¡¯t you know that? You must express your feelings while she¡¯s still a single woman. Otherwise, someone will move first and steal her from you! So what if you¡¯re her Boss? Just like her, you¡¯re also single.


    Most men, single or otherwise, would jump right away without a second thought!"


    This is what Harper told him the other day, warning and teasing him about his romantic life. And, of course, those words rang in his mind every minute. Sometimes, Harper¡¯s words scare him, but other times, they encourage him.


    To add to his fear and overthinking about making the first move on Dana was when he was told that Dana had been forced to get engaged to a man her parents had chosen.


    "Man!! It would be best if you tried now. Or... you will regret it! Fuck Leo! You know regret is more hurtful when it comes to something you didn¡¯t do than something you do!" Leo tried to convince and curse himself while sitting straight and taking his cell phone.


    After a deep and long sigh, he finally dialed Dana¡¯s phone number.


    The strange sensation he felt now was something he had almost forgotten: his heart was beating faster than usual as he waited for the girl he liked to answer the phone call.


    After a few rings, he finally heard her panicked yet alluring voice from the other end.


    "Hi. Hello... Boss, Sir. Is there any emergency at the office, Boss? Is there anything I can do, Boss?" Her confused tone was enough to make Leo snap from his nervousness.


    Leo silently swallowed, trying to act as calmly as possible. He said, "Dana, we are not in the office. How often have I told you to call me by my name?" Said Leo as gently as possible to avoid sounding like her Boss.


    "Sorry, boss, uhmmm¡ª" There was silence for a few seconds, causing Leo to smile when he heard her soft voice scolding herself. "Leo, is there any emergency at the office?"


    "What? No. Nothing urgent about work," said Leo.


    "Okay. So, what can I do for you this early this morning on the weekend, Leo?" Asked Dana again. Now, she sounded more casual and confused as she realized the call was not about work.


    Leo ignored her question and asked, "Dana, would you mind if I asked you where are you now?"


    "Oh, No. Not at all. I¡­ I¡¯m in my apartment." Her confused tone became more evident after she received his unusual phone call on the weekend.


    "Do you have any plans for lunchtime today?" Leo tried to speak as casually as he could.


    "Lunchtime? No¡­" Said Dana, confused.


    "Perfect! Dana, I will pick you up around eleven... we will go to the lunch party." Leo hurriedly said without losing his casual tone. But in his rush and nervousness, he realized he had forgotten to ask Dana first before saying that. But the ball had rolled. And this was the point of no return; his mind encouraged him.


    Dana was surprised to hear Leo¡¯s words, "Lunch party? Where?"


    She didn¡¯t remember an agenda for him to attend a lunch party. Also, she wondered why he suddenly asked her to follow him. She started to think she might have misheard something.


    "Leo, are you asking me to go to the lunch party!? With you!? Just us?" she asked again.


    "Yes. Just you and me. Our big Boss invited us to her private lunch party." Leo continued to explain Bella¡¯s invitation.


    After a few seconds of Dana¡¯s silence, Leo finally relaxed and calmed. Then he apologized for forgetting to ask her first and said he should have asked about this earlier. Despite the short notice, he also hoped she could come to the lunch party.


    "B-Boss... I..." Before she could finish her words, Leo suddenly spoke in an obviously nervous tone.


    "D-Dana, I was worried that Boss Bella would scold me if you didn¡¯t show up because I forgot to tell you about this party yesterday. So please, come with me¡ª"

 Chapter 343: Congratulations Bro!

    When he heard his own words, Leo suddenly felt like war drums were resounding in his heart.


    ¡¯Damn! What¡¯s with the stutter? Calm yourself down, man!¡¯ Leo tried to calm himself, worried that Dana would hear how loudly his heart was beating.


    "Okay, Leo. I will come with you," Dana said hurriedly, not wanting to disappoint their Boss. "Is there a dress code for me to wear?"


    A spring-like smile instantly crossed Leo¡¯s face when he heard her agree.


    "No dress code. You can wear anything you like. I trust your fashion sense."


    "Okay."


    "I will come to your place at eleven. See you..." Leo said. He ended the call without giving her a chance to say anything because he was too nervous she would change her mind.


    "Damn! Why are you so nervous like this is your first time wooing a girl, Leo Smith? Why??" He spoke to himself while standing from his seat.


    A wide grin spread across his face as he walked to the bathroom.


    He was looking forward to the lunch party and needed to prepare to pick up Dana.


    Before long,


    Neat in his white slim-fit shirt and pastel trousers, Leo didn¡¯t waste any time. He decided to drive to Dana¡¯s house despite being one hour early. Better early than late, right?


    After ensuring his hair was neatly arranged, he grabbed his cell phone and exited his bedroom.


    "Leo, buddy, it is too early to leave now. It¡¯s not even ten yet. There¡¯s still no one at the Boss¡¯s house. I think... we should come fifteen minutes before eleven. Not too early, but still could help prepare the Boss¡¯s party¡ª"


    Sam¡¯s voice came from the living room, stopping Leo.


    Leo was speechless to hear his words. Before he could say something, Sam spoke again.


    "You want to help Boss Bella prepare the party, right?" Sam slightly raises his brow, confused to see him go out now.


    "Yeah, sure. But I must stop somewhere else first. That¡¯s why I must head out now¡ª" Leo answered calmly. Try not to raise Sam¡¯s suspicions.


    "Bro Leo, you want to go early? Why? Are you going to pick up someone?"


    Suddenly, Stefan¡¯s light and happy voice could be heard from the kitchen. He appeared with a bowl of crackers and walked nonchalantly to the seating area to join Sam on the sofa.


    "N-No..." Leo tried even harder to maintain his calmness when responding to Stefan¡¯s sudden questions. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In his mind, Leo cursed and was simultaneously impressed with Stefan.


    ¡¯This brat could become a detective if he is curious about something,¡¯ Leo thought.


    "Oh, I see. So you will go straight to sister Bella¡¯s house?" Stefan asked again.


    "Yeah. Sure." Leo answered while smiling.


    "Wait! What the hell¡ª" Sam suddenly chimed in. "I still remember you saying you wanted to stop by somewhere else earlier. Why now did you say you will go straight to Boss Bella¡¯s house?" he asked, confused.


    ¡¯Fuck!¡¯ Leo couldn¡¯t help but curse these two inwardly.


    He started worrying because these two numbnuts bombarded him with many intelligent questions, distracting and confusing him, luring him to an honest answer.


    After a deep sigh, he responded, "Well, YES, Ugh... I mean, NO. I need to stop by somewhere else before going to Boss¡¯s house," Leo answered, praying they would not ask him again and just let him go.


    He didn¡¯t like it when they started interrogating him because they would not stop until they heard a satisfactory answer.


    Leo felt relieved when he saw them exchange glances and then ignore him. Leo quickly turned his body toward the door.


    However,


    Just before Leo could continue moving his feet, Stefan¡¯s words caught his attention again.


    "Aah, I know¡­ I know¡­ I know¡­you must be heading to pick up sis¡ª"


    "No!" Leo stopped him from continuing. He knew this chatty Stefan wanted to mention Dana.


    Leo didn¡¯t want anyone to know he was going to Dana¡¯s house. He feared they would tease him early in the morning, and he couldn¡¯t handle it. These two seemed to have ways of making fun of him or acting like clowns when it came to his romantic life. They constantly tested his patience.


    "Oh, I see. So you are not going to pick up sister Harper¡ª" Stefan continued with a teasing smile slowly appearing on his lips. It was fun to tease this big bro.


    ¡¯Fuck! I should just say yes. Why did I forget about Harper? I could use her name instead, right? I¡¯m an idiot!¡¯ Leo once more, venting his frustration inwardly.


    "Yeah, no," Leo said calmly, clenching his fist. "Guys, I have to go now. Please, just mind your own business. Stefan, keep eating your crackers, and you, mister big guy," he turned his gaze to Sam, "Keep watching your sports news. See you at the party, guys¡ª"


    Leo said while continuing to walk, but with only one step, he almost stumbled upon hearing Stefan¡¯s following words.


    "Wow!! I get it! If it¡¯s not Harper, then it must be Dana. So you will pick up Sister Dana!? Seriously, bro?" Stefan narrowed his eyes on Leo.


    Leo, "...."


    Stefan saw Leo freeze, not saying anything, his wide-open eyes clearly showing how shocked he was.


    The way he looked, and his sudden awkwardness made it crystal clear that Leo must have wanted to pick up Dana. He suddenly felt a twinge of jealousy, seeing his fellow housemate now had a girlfriend.


    "Uhmmm¡­Y-Yes?¡ª" Leo answered, his mouth betrayed his mind. He instantly scolded himself for exposing what he wanted to hide so easily. He shrugged while rubbing his eyebrow.


    "Wow, Dana will join us for the lunch party?" Sam asked. "I thought you told me you won¡¯t ask her to come?"


    Leo had no choice but to admit it, or these two clowns would make him late with so many random and trap questions.


    "Yes, yes. I¡¯ve asked her, and she has agreed to join us. Of course, I had to invite her..." Leo said calmly. "You guys heard it too, right? Bella insisted Dana should come. How could I not comply with the boss¡¯ request?"


    This was the best excuse he could find in his chaotic mind.

 Chapter 344: Let’s Date

    "Ha ha ha, true¡­true¡­ Well, congrats, bro. Damn! Why do I feel so envious that you finally have a new girlfriend? You are so lucky, bro, to have sis Dana as a girlfriend. She is a kind and smart lady¡­not many women like that," Stefan said while giving a thumbs up to Leo. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯What the fuck? Why did this kiddo conclude that I am dating Dana now? Did I say something earlier?¡¯


    Leo is both confused and scared about whether his inner thoughts control him. He ends up revealing things to these two men that he doesn¡¯t want to, such as his dream of being in a romantic relationship with Dana.


    "Congratulations, Leo!!" Sam gave him sincere praise and a thumbs-up. Before continuing, he said, "Go quickly... don¡¯t keep the girl waiting. We¡¯ll discuss this later at Boss Bella¡¯s house and celebrate your new upgrade status!"


    "Ha ha ha, Bro Sam, I agree with you. We need to celebrate Bro Leo¡¯s new and upgraded status. He¡¯s not a single dog like us; he already has a girlfriend," Stefan said while looking at Leo, adding fuel to confuse him even more. "Congratulations, Bro Leo. We should celebrate with champagne..."


    Leo, "¡­"


    He wanted to scold them for jumping to conclusions. Still, he was too exhausted to talk to them, especially this foolish Stefan. That dude¡¯s imagination always runs wild when it comes to romance.


    After taking a deep breath, Leo said nothing and left, feeling cornered and with no choice but to ask Dana to be his girlfriend before they arrived at Bella¡¯s house.


    He could imagine Sam and Stefan calling everyone they knew about this and spreading the rumor. Later, when he and Dana arrived at Bella¡¯s house, everyone congratulated them. Dana would be confused, and she might get scared and run away.


    Oh my God! It would be troublesome.


    ¡¯Fine! You guys win. I will express my feelings to her. I will ask her to become my woman¡ª¡¯


    ***


    Fifteen minutes before eleven, Leo parked his car directly in front of Dana¡¯s apartment. He promptly texted her to inform her of his arrival.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Dana to reply to his text.


    [Dana] OMG, Leo. I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t finished yet. (Cry Emoji) (Sorry Emoji)


    [Dana] But I¡¯ll be down soon. Please wait a moment. (Smile Emoji)


    Leo couldn¡¯t help but grin as he read her text, which was full of emojis.


    Reading Dana¡¯s text now, Leo felt like he had traveled back to his high school days when a few of his classmates had a crush on him. They would spam him with this kind of text full of emojis.


    [Leo] No need to rush, Dana. I¡¯m eagerly waiting for you. Take your time. (Smiley Emoji)


    After sending the text message, Leo put his cell phone in his pocket and rested his eyes.


    He still smiled as he thought about Dana. This was the first time he had used an emoji when texting a woman. He felt his face turning hot, finding the situation quite amusing and sweet.


    If Harper or Bella knew what he was doing now, they might make fun of him.


    Leo shook his head. He tried to put aside those thoughts and calm his mind while starting to think about how to ask Dana to become his girlfriend.


    But the more he thought about it, the more he struggled to find the right words to ask her.


    Damn!


    Once more, he vented his frustration inwardly because he felt his mind slowly becoming dull. This love-line matter was really challenging.


    ¡¯Why is handling company matters easier than handling these love things?¡¯ he sighed deeply.


    It didn¡¯t take long. Leo heard a soft knock from the window, surprising him. He opened his eyes and sat straight, only to see Dana trying to peek inside the car.


    He didn¡¯t roll the window down immediately but instead fed his eyes with her beauty.


    "Sorry to make you wait, sir," Dana said when Leo finally rolled down the car window.


    A barely noticeable smile framed his face before he replied, "It¡¯s fine. Get in¡­"


    After making sure she buckled up her seatbelt, he turned to see her.


    "You look beautiful in that knee-length dress, Dana," Leo said sincerely. He was impressed by how her black dress made her fair skin stand out, and he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off her.


    When Leo saw her blush and avoided eye contact with him, his adrenaline kicked in, and his mind suddenly cleared. He wasted no more time asking this girl to be his woman.


    "Dana, please look at me¡­" Leo asked her gently. "Can I ask you something?" he continued when she finally stared back at him. He could see the confusion in her beautiful eyes.


    She nodded slightly, "Yes, sure¡ª"


    "Do you have a boyfriend?" His question was enough to shock her. He could see her gasp and seem taken aback. Hurriedly, he continued, "I¡¯m sorry if I asked you something personal. You don¡¯t have to answer me if you don¡¯t want¡ª"


    "I don¡¯t have..." Dana immediately answered him shyly. "W-Why do you ask?" She was confused when he suddenly asked her about these things.


    Dana remembered telling him she was single and refused when her parents tried to match her with someone else.


    Suddenly, so many questions danced in her mind. Why did he ask again? Why did he want to know?


    Before Dana could ask him, she saw him speak.


    "Dana Smith, let¡¯s date..."


    "What? Dating? Us?" Dana shouted in shock. She was utterly shocked to hear his words. This man had just casually asked her, "Dating?"


    Dana blinked several times to make sure what she saw and heard was real, not just her imagination, which had been tormenting her mind recently. She imagined this man to be her boyfriend, her man.


    "B-Boss, S-Sir..." Dana stuttered nervously. She took a deep breath to calm the thrill in her heart. "Leo, did you ask me out? I mean, did you ask me to be your girlfriend?"

 Chapter 345: Are We Now A Couple?

    "B-Boss, S-Sir..." Dana stuttered nervously. She took a deep breath to calm the thrill in her heart. "Leo, did you ask me out? I mean, did you ask me to be your girlfriend?"


    "Yes. Why do you look so shocked?" Leo slightly raised his eyebrow. Her shocked expression scared him. This girl might refuse to date him.


    Leo¡¯s nervous hands were tightly clenched in his lap, and he was anxious to know her answer. After waiting a few more seconds, she said nothing, only staring at him with an evidently clueless expression.


    "You don¡¯t want to go out with me?" he asked again, with a bitter smile slowly appearing on his lips.


    "Uhmmm¡­No...Yes..." Dana immediately shook her head, confused by her own answer. She hurriedly continued, "I mean¡­are you serious about asking me on a date? And¡­and¡­.even become your girlfriend?"


    The corner of Leo¡¯s lips lifted into a faint smile when he heard her words.


    "Hmm, I¡¯m a hundred percent serious. No doubt," he said. "Do I look like I¡¯m just trying to prank you now, Dana?"


    Dana, "...."


    She felt like her mind was moving extremely slowly, like a computer infected by a virus, struggling to process the input of the present moment.


    After a few more seconds passed, she finally spoke, "Leo, I just feel like¡ª" However, once more, her voice trailed off, and all the words in her mind vanished. She didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Too shy to meet his gaze, Dana lowered her head, looking at her lap while trying to string together the words she needed to say to him. To answer him.


    But she still couldn¡¯t utter anything, and her tongue felt stiff.


    Dana could feel her face turn warm, but simultaneously, she felt utterly nervous; her boss, the man she had a crush on for a few months, suddenly asked her to be his girlfriend.


    ¡¯Did I just win the lottery, getting this man¡¯s attention?¡¯ she wondered, feeling happy. ¡¯God! Thank you so much for your blessing. You are so kind, answering my prayers this fast...¡¯


    She felt her heart swell, her hand clenched tightly in her lap. Her nervousness and embarrassment increased when she felt Leo¡¯s unwavering gaze on her.


    "Can you give me your answer, Dana?" Leo¡¯s gentle voice pulled Dana from her trance.


    She tried to calm herself before slowly looking up to meet his gaze.


    "Leo, I..." Her words were shaking. "I¡­I love to become your date. But are you really serious about asking me to become your girlfriend because you like me?"


    "Of course I like you. Why would I ask someone to date me if I didn¡¯t like that person and didn¡¯t consider her to be a girlfriend?" Leo said, confused by her question.


    Dana silently chuckled, looking at his expression; he looked so cute when he showed his confused expression for the first time.


    In her eyes, this man was always perfect in every area. When working, he was a responsible and enviable leader. As a friend, he was very caring to all of his friends.


    Her face bloomed with redness before she asked him, "What I¡¯m trying to say is, do you really like me from your heart?"


    "Absolutely!"


    Instantly, she felt warm in her heart as she heard his answer. However, she was still worried that what had happened was just her delusion.


    She sighed deeply and said, "Leo, I¡¯m sorry. I just want to make sure I didn¡¯t mishear or misunderstand what you said."


    "It¡¯s fine. I understand. Is there anything else you want to confirm?" he asked gently, smiling at her.


    "Do you love me?"


    Leo repeated her question, "Do I love you?" while turning his gaze forward, trying to find the answer in his heart. However, without realizing it, Dana¡¯s face changed slightly to a sad expression when she saw he didn¡¯t answer her immediately.


    A few seconds later, Leo turned to look at her.


    "Dana, I¡¯m not sure if I love you, but ever since I met you, you¡¯ve been on my mind constantly. If I don¡¯t see you for a day, I feel annoyed; it feels like my day is incomplete. When I heard that your parents forced you to marry someone they chose, my heart felt shattered, and I was afraid I would never see you again¡ª"


    Leo paused for a moment when he saw her face blushing.


    "I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s love, but that¡¯s how I feel about you, Dana," he said. "Yesterday, when Bella asked me to bring you to her lunch party, I realized I like you. So, if you¡¯re still single, why not be my girlfriend?"


    Dana was at a loss for words. Hearing his confession, she felt flattered.


    "So, Dana... Are we a couple now?" he asked softly, nervous about her answer.


    She nodded quickly before answering, "Y-Yes..."


    Leo¡¯s facial expression lifted, and his smile grew wider when he saw her lower her face, avoiding eye contact with him.


    He raised his hand to stroke her hair, but his hand stopped, remembering they had spent plenty of time here. They could be late arriving at Bella¡¯s house.


    "We have to move now, or we will be late."


    "Ooo... okay," Dana responded. Her nervousness had not yet faded, realizing their relationship had changed quickly. They were no longer just colleagues but now a couple.


    ***


    Meanwhile, at Bella¡¯s house, sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was busy choosing her outfit in her walk-in closet and getting ready to welcome her guests. She decided on a pale blue short-sleeved blouse and navy blue casual culottes.


    After putting her hair in a bun, she rushed to look for Tristan. She stopped when she saw him in the living room outside their bedroom, engrossed in reading something on his iPad.


    Seeing Tristan¡¯s relaxed state relieved her.


    Since last night, she has been worried that Tristan will feel uncomfortable because Sean will join them and meet their son.


    "Hubby, I¡¯m done. Do you want to go down now?"


    Bella asked while walking toward him. She saw him place his iPad on the table and stand up.


    "Yes¡ª"

 Chapter 346: Lunch Party (1)

    Bella felt excited and eager to host all her friends and some of Tristan¡¯s colleagues.


    "Has your friend arrived?" Tristan asked, placing his hands on her waist and pulling her closer.


    Bella smiled at him, letting him fix her hair. "Yes. Noora just informed me that Sam and Gael had already arrived. They¡¯re talking with Dylan and Bryan in the living room."


    Tristan looked into her eyes lovingly before asking, "What about Sean? Is he coming?" His tone was casual, but Bella could see the tension in his eyes.


    "I¡¯m not sure about him," Bella replied. She hadn¡¯t heard from Sean since their last meeting and didn¡¯t know if he would appear today. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan didn¡¯t press further. Instead, his hand rose and released her hair, letting it fall down her back, causing Bella to protest with her gaze.


    "Why did you do that? I liked my bun," she asked with a frown.


    "Ms. Sinclair, never show your beautiful neck to others. It makes me jealous," Tristan said casually, straightening his beautiful, neatly hung hair.


    Bella, "..."


    Tristan spoke again before she could say anything. "And you know what, darling? I always get turned on when you show me your neck. It makes me want to make¡ª" His voice trailed off as Bella¡¯s palm landed on his mouth, silencing him.


    Her eyes widened as if scolding him with her glare. When she saw he had stopped speaking, she slowly pulled her hand away and said, "Mr. Sinclair, seriously? Stop thinking those sultry thoughts. We are about to host a lunch party."


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..." He nodded while smiling. His hand now touched her chin, making her look up at him. When he saw her clear, sparkling eyes blink a few times, a faint smile appeared on his lips.


    "Okay, let¡¯s go down," said Bella. He responded by leaning closer and gently kissing her lips. She was surprised by his sudden kiss but accepted it gladly anyway.


    After the short, lovely kiss, Bella¡¯s face felt warm. "You didn¡¯t ruin my lip gloss, did you!?"


    "Wait, let me take a good look. No, you¡¯re good. Wow, good choice with the lip gloss color, darling," Tristan said, rubbing her cherry lips with his thumb, casually erasing the traces of her lip gloss at the corners.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go down," he said as he held her hand and walked toward the stairs.


    For some unknown reason, Tristan felt tense because this was the first time he would meet Bella¡¯s other friends; so far, he had only met Sam and Leo.


    "Hmm," Bella responded as she walked beside him. However, before they reached the stairs, she suddenly remembered their son. She hadn¡¯t seen him after breakfast.


    "Where¡¯s Dax?" She asked while glancing at Tristan.


    "He¡¯s with Max in his computer room."


    "Let¡¯s meet Dax first..." Bella stopped and turned to look at him. "I want to introduce him to Gael, my IT guy at the office."


    Bella tried to mention Gael casually, concerned that Tristan might suspect him of being her hacker. When she saw him slightly frown, she continued, "I already see Gael as my brother, so¡ª"


    "Oh, the one you told me about, the IT guy who moved from New York?" Tristan asked. He was suspicious of that person, probably the hacker who worked behind her.


    "Yeah. He was curious when I told him about Dax¡¯s strong interest in computers and programming. He wanted to see Dax¡¯s coding skills¡ª" Bella¡¯s eyes beamed as she spoke about her son¡¯s ability.


    "Darling, is this Gael, your hacker?" Tristan asked casually, but his words instantly surprised Bella.


    ¡¯Gosh! He knows?¡¯ Bella silently scolded herself while thinking of a quick response.


    She couldn¡¯t expose Stefan¡¯s real identity. But she also couldn¡¯t lie to Tristan. Sigh!


    After a quick thought, she decided just to tell him.


    "Hubby, he is indeed the same as Max," Bella had no choice but to admit it; she knew Tristan would eventually find out about Stefan. Well, at least she didn¡¯t reveal his hacker and real names, right!?


    Bella continued to warn Tristan, "But please keep it to yourself. Don¡¯t tell anyone about him¡ª"


    "Sure, dear¡­" Tristan smiled when he saw her. She looked so adorable with her expression, especially when he saw her slightly pursed lips as if she were teasing him for a kiss. It made him want to kiss her.


    He couldn¡¯t stop his desire, so he leaned closer to kiss her. However, before his lips touched hers, Bella stepped back, avoiding him.


    "Why?" he smiled, surprised by her refusal.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him but continued walking. This time, she didn¡¯t just walk but ran down to the first floor toward the living room, causing Tristan to chuckle as he followed her.


    When Bella arrived in the living room, she saw Stefan and Sam sitting with Bryan and Dylan. They were earnestly conversing, and no one knew she was there.


    She entered the room and asked, "Why just the four of you? Where are Harper and Leo?" It was five minutes before lunchtime, and they hadn¡¯t arrived yet.


    "Sis, Harper is on her way¡ª" Stefan answered Bella, but his eyes looked at the tall man following her.


    Stefan immediately recognized the man as Tristan Sinclair. Just seeing Tristan¡¯s intimidating expression was enough to leave Stefan speechless. He felt uncomfortable, as if Tristan¡¯s presence was overwhelming. When their eyes met, Stefan quickly looked away and focused on Bella.


    "I see..." Bella nodded slowly. "How about Leo?"


    "He picked up Dana."


    "Wow! He finally brought Dana..." She was so happy to know that.


    "Yeah, he suddenly changed his plan." Sam chimed in.


    "I see¡ª" Her words stopped when she felt Tristan placing his hand on her shoulder. She looked at him.


    "Bella, could you introduce me to your friend?" Tristan smiled back at her.


    "Ah, my bad. I forgot," Bella grinned and then looked at Stefan. "Gael, this is Tristan Sinclair, my husband. And, Hubby, this young man is Gael, my old friend who I consider like my own brother."


    "Hello, Gael, nice to meet you," Tristan said as he stretched out his hand for a handshake.

 Chapter 347: Lunch Party (2)

    "Hello, Gael, nice to meet you," Tristan said as he stretched out his hand for a handshake.


    "It¡¯s an honor to meet you finally, Sir..." Stefan¡¯s voice quivered slightly as he accepted Tristan¡¯s warm handshake, a mix of respect and unease clearly showing through his eyes.


    "Gael, you can call me ¡¯bro¡¯ if you want, or just call me by my first name. No need to use ¡¯Sir,¡¯" Tristan said casually before greeting the others with slight nods.


    Stefan nodded in response, feeling pressured to call this man brother. For now, he would avoid talking to him.


    Tristan, always a man of few words, settled down beside Bella. He listened to what his wife and her friend talked about while playing with her hair and gazing at the outside scenery.


    ... sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Wait, there are only two of you. Where is Leo? Why didn¡¯t Leo come with one of you guys?" Bella asked, looking at Stefan and Sam in turn.


    She was confused about why Sam and Stefan traveled in different cars, but none had Leo in them. If one of them were with Leo, they could have stopped by Dana¡¯s house before coming here, right?


    "I told you he picked up Dana," Stefan answered.


    "I mean, it¡¯s such a hassle using a different car. Why not just use one car and stop by Dana¡¯s house?"


    "Maybe Dana was shy about meeting Sam or me," Stefan answered nonchalantly, crossing his arms in front of his chest and looking around the room. He was curious and wanted to meet Bella¡¯s son but didn¡¯t see him.


    Before Stefan could ask Bella about her son, Sam suddenly said.


    "Leo left the house earlier than us this morning, so maybe they had something to do before coming here." Sam paused awkwardly, talking about this. "Well, boss, you should know what I¡¯m trying to say..." he continued.


    "Ha ha ha..." Stefan laughed happily. "True... True... they are a new couple and need more intimate moments."


    Sam and Bella smile upon hearing Stefan¡¯s words.


    "Who is the new couple?" Harper¡¯s voice suddenly rang from behind, surprising everyone in the room. Instantly, they turn toward Harper¡¯s voice.


    Bella saw Harper enter the room, with Geoffrey following behind her.


    "Harper, you finally arrived, huh?" she said, standing from her seat.


    Bella was genuinely surprised by Harper¡¯s unusual appearance; She was wearing skinny jeans and a white blouse, with her long hair neatly tied. What surprised Bella even more was seeing Harper in white sneakers.


    After giving Harper a warm hug, Bella whispered, "Did you deliberately dress like this to attract someone¡¯s attention?" Suddenly, her eyes widened when she thought about something. "My goodness, Harper Reed, are you trying to attract my husband!?"


    Harper laughed before flicking Bella¡¯s forehead gently. "What the hell are you thinking, girl? Tsk...Tsk... You are so funny..."


    Bella rubbed her forehead while narrowing her eyes at Harper, protesting to her best friend with her gaze.


    "I¡¯m sorry, girl. Even though I know your husband is freaking handsome, you don¡¯t need to worry... Because I never like married men." Harper chuckled, watching Bella roll her eyes.


    "By the way, how do you know I¡¯m trying to attract someone?"


    "You usually wear branded and glamorous stuff, but today, you look down-to-earth," Bella said, scanning her from head to feet. "I rarely see you like this..."


    "Girl, you know me so well..." Harper giggled while looking for someone. However, her expression showed disappointment when she didn¡¯t find the person she was looking for, and she turned to Bella, asking, "Why hasn¡¯t everyone arrived yet?"


    Harper thought everyone had arrived and she would be the last guest, but after checking around, she didn¡¯t see Leo and Sean.


    "Yeah, a few people haven¡¯t arrived yet." Bella shared the same expression as Harper. She started to worry that Sean wouldn¡¯t come.


    "Damn! They ruined my plan," Harper grumbled. Still, her words slowly faded as soon as her eyes landed on the handsome, tall man she was familiar with¡ªshe had seen his picture on the internet; he was Tristan Sinclair.


    Tristan was standing not far from her, absentmindedly looking at his cell phone, and didn¡¯t notice that someone was looking at him.


    Harper immediately turned her gaze back to Bella, leaning closer to her.


    "Girl! Now I know why you fell in love with your husband at first sight; it turns out he¡¯s so hot¡ª" she whispered. Seeing Tristan in person made Harper understand why Bella couldn¡¯t forget this man.


    "Stop teasing me!" Bella shook her head.


    "Girl, hurry up and introduce me to your husband," Harper whispered again.


    Bella led Harper to Tristan and introduced her. However, she was taken aback when Tristan only nodded at Harper without offering a handshake, unlike his greeting to Stefan.


    ¡¯Why is he sulking? Did he hear what we were talking about?¡¯ Bella wondered. She wanted to ask him but put aside her curiosity. Instead, she introduced Harper to Bryan and Dylan.


    After a brief and warm introduction, Bella invited them all to move to the backyard, to the lunch party venue.


    ***


    Even though the sun was shining brightly that afternoon, their table was set under a shady tree, sheltering them. The gentle breeze makes the atmosphere feel enjoyable.


    They all sat in their respective chairs. Tristan sat at the head of the table; Dylan and Bryan sat across from him. They are seriously discussing some of their company projects.


    Meanwhile, Bella sat next to Tristan while chatting with Harper. Stefan and Sam were seated before them, gossiping about Leo dating Dana.


    Shortly after,


    Bella called Geoffrey, who was standing not far in the back.


    "Geoffrey, could you ask Dax and Max to join us? And please ask the chef to start serving. We can start our lunch now," Bella said. She decided to start their lunch even though Leo and Sean hadn¡¯t arrived yet.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..." Geoffrey nodded. But before he went inside, he remembered another guest. "What about your other friends?"


    "Just ask someone to wait outside for them; if they arrive, bring them here," Bella instructed. She didn¡¯t know why Leo hadn¡¯t arrived yet.


    Bella also didn¡¯t know whether Sean would come. Well, at least she had invited him.

 Chapter 348: Lunch Party (3)

    Harper, who overheard Bella¡¯s conversation with Geoffrey, suddenly remembered something.


    Her expression turned worried as she looked at Bella, "I¡¯m in trouble!" She whispered, grabbing Bella¡¯s hands.


    "Huh? What... what happened?" Bella stared at Harper, worried that something had happened to her. "Are you alright, Harper?" She felt Harper¡¯s cold hand, which made her even more concerned.


    "I¡¯m so stupid! How could I forget about my little Dax?" Harper paused to take a deep breath, her expression turning dark as she continued. "Gosh! I completely forgot about him... What the hell am I thinking!?"


    Harper felt bad because as soon as she arrived at this house, she was distracted by someone she wanted to meet. She couldn¡¯t focus and forgot her priorities, flying to this city only to meet her cute and lovely nephew, Daxton. How foolish she was.


    Bella was rendered speechless; she almost fell from her chair hearing her words. This girl successfully made her worry for nothing.


    She initially thought Harper was in pain or had forgotten something in New York and needed to return immediately. However, she was in trouble because she had forgotten about Dax.


    Sigh!


    Bella wanted to scold her for worrying her. However, Stefan¡¯s voice calling her has stopped her. She turned to see him.


    "Sis, I thought you would keep Dax from me, not wanting to introduce him¡ª" Stefan protested, sending a sharp gaze. "I have been waiting for this opportunity since I arrived in this city!"


    Bella, "..."


    "Sorry, bro. I wanted to bring Dax to meet you earlier, but he has a computer class with his teacher," Bella said.


    Stefan didn¡¯t say anything; he just looked at her with a ¡¯seriously?¡¯ gaze before turning his eyes toward the house.


    He was curious about meeting Bella¡¯s son, Dax. He had only heard about the brilliant Dax from Bella and Sam all this time. From them, he learned that Dax was not a typical kid of his age. He had a rare ability for a four-year-old who already understood intermediate coding and other knowledge.


    Stefan could understand it since he also had that ability from a young age. But he needed to check Dax¡¯s ability with his own eyes.


    In his case, he only became interested in computers and could learn about them at six.


    While Dax? He already showed interest at four. How scary is that? If Dax has the ability, he is willing to mentor him.


    He will teach and guide him so Dax will not fall to the wrong side. Otherwise, they will get in trouble if someone uses that kid to do something vile and terrible in the future.


    However, he needs to meet Dax in person first. Later, when they talk or see him using the computer, he will discover whether this kid is a genius or Bella is just bluffing.


    Suddenly, Stefan remembered what Bella said earlier. He glanced at Bella again.


    "Sis, you said Dax has a computer teacher?" Stefan asked. He wanted to meet that person and test whether he was qualified to teach his sister¡¯s son.


    "Yes. Since we arrived in this city, someone has started teaching him. I will introduce you to my son¡¯s teacher; he will join us for lunch."


    "Perfect! I want to meet his teacher." Stefan smiled.


    "Stef¡­ Gael, behave!" Harper suddenly spoke, surprising Stefan because she almost exposed his real name.


    When Harper saw Stefan glare at her, she cleared her throat before continuing. "Dax is different from other kids. He can¡¯t get close to new people easily, so you need time to approach him. Don¡¯t scare him, or he will not talk to you for a long time, well maybe a year later¡ª"


    Stefan frowned. He was utterly surprised. But his surprise only lasted a second, and he started to doubt Harper¡¯s words. He turned his gaze back to Bella, "Is that true?" he asked.


    Bella smiled and nodded. "Yes, even Jack could only approach and talk to him after they had met a few times."


    "Don¡¯t worry, bro..." Sam patted Stefan¡¯s shoulder. "Little Dax will talk to you, but he needs time. It took me five meetings before he finally talked to me, even though he only responded to my one-sentence greeting."


    Sam¡¯s words were enough to make Stefan swallow hard. He didn¡¯t know Dax would be hard to approach.


    "Ha ha ha, don¡¯t listen to them," Bella said. She felt sorry when she saw Stefan¡¯s pale expression. "My son has changed a lot since we moved here."


    "Really? Dax is no longer hard to approach?" Harper was surprised.


    "Yeah. His introverted side is slowly changing because, in this place, he has many friends and plenty of activities to meet new people. As a result, he has started to socialize more easily." Bella smiled when she saw Stefan finally relax.


    "Well, Gael, don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll do great. If you share the same hobby as him, he might like you and appreciate you quicker than common people..." Bella continued.


    "Huh!? What hobby?" Harper asked, curious.


    "Dax likes computers and software programming, so maybe he could casually chat with him..." Bella answered Harper while smiling warmly at Stefan.


    Finally, Stefan breathed a sigh of relief. He could be friends with Dax faster.


    Before Stefan could ask another question, he saw a chubby, pale-skinned young boy wearing a black hoodie coming out of the house. He knew it must be Daxton.


    Stefan felt elated to see him; he appeared adorable and handsome. However, his smile faded when he noticed the tall, brown-haired man walking alongside Dax. Just a brief look at the man, suddenly, his hand clenched into a tight fist.


    ¡¯Why is he here?¡¯ Stefan wasn¡¯t expecting to see this man here. Before he could find the answer, something crossed his mind. ¡¯What the heck! This man is Dax¡¯s computer teacher? Seriously? I¡¯m way better than him!¡¯


    Not wanting that man to be suspicious of him, Stefan turned his gaze to look at Dax again, trying to appear casual before the little kid, worried about scaring him.


    When Stefan thinks he is safe from Max¡¯s suspicions, he is wrong because Max has seen him. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Max stared at Stefan briefly and thought the man looked familiar. ¡¯Did I see him before?¡¯ he wondered as he approached them.

 Chapter 349: Lunch Party (4)

    "Come here, my dear son..." Bella stood up from her seat and approached Dax.


    Harper did the same, excited to see Dax, whom she hadn¡¯t seen for almost a year.


    "Mommy, this¡ª" Dax, in his usual calm manner, asked while glancing at Harper, who walked behind his mother.


    "Little Dax, it¡¯s me, Auntie Harper. Oh my, have you already forgotten your beautiful aunt?"


    Harper asked in a sad tone, trying to humor the little man. She couldn¡¯t take her eyes off him; he was so adorable. He seemed to have lost weight, and his skin wasn¡¯t as pale as she remembered from their last meeting in Sweden last year.


    "Aunty Harper?" Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Yes... I¡¯m your beautiful Aunty Harper..." Her smile grew wider, hearing the little guy finally remember her. However, Dax¡¯s following words almost made her trip.


    "Why do you look more beautiful today, Aunty!?"


    Harper¡¯s heart swelled warmly when she heard how sweet little Dax was. This was the first time she had heard Dax compliment her like this. She placed her hand on her chest while looking at him gently. She somehow felt like the sun had just appeared from the west¡ªhow shocking.


    Harper, Bella, and the others were shocked. They were all now looking at Dax in awe.


    "Ha ha ha," Harper¡¯s blissful laughter echoed through the air. "Thank you, Dax; you also look more handsome and have grown taller. I¡¯m so happy to see you again¡ª"


    "Thank you, Aunty Harper. What I¡¯m trying to say is, you are beautiful without your heavy makeup..." Dax said with his deadpan expression.


    Harper, "..."


    Bella stifled a laugh.


    Dax turned his gaze to his mom while holding her hand as if to tell her he needed her to introduce him to the new guy he saw at the table.


    As if she knew what Dax was trying to say, Bella led him near the table. She looked at Stefan before turning her gaze back to Dax.


    "Dax, this guy is my close friend; you can call him Uncle Gael. He¡¯s the same as Uncle Max. He¡¯s also a computer expert and works at Mom¡¯s company... he said he wanted to see your computer skills..."


    Just as Bella thought, Dax¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up when he heard that Stefan was a computer expert.


    "Hello, Uncle Gael. Nice to meet you." Dax nodded slightly, a half-smile framing his face.


    "Hi, you must be Dax..." Stefan stood from his seat while smiling back at Dax. He would hug this little man if there were no table between them. He looked so cute, reminding him of his nephew, whom he had not seen in years.


    "I¡¯m so happy to meet you in person," Stefan continued. "I heard from your mother that you have a hobby that might be the same as mine, playing with computers and games. Is that right?"


    "Yes, Uncle, I like computers and computer games¡ª"


    "Do you mind if we play your recent favorite game later in the afternoon?"


    "Sure. I¡¯m looking forward to it..." Dax was curious about this new uncle. He needed to test whether this uncle was more capable of playing a game than his teacher, Max.


    "Alright, let¡¯s sit first..." Tristan said as he arranged a chair for Dax to sit between him and Bella.


    At the same time, the elders finally joined them. Isaac, Lewis, and Natalie sat at the other end of the table.


    After Bella finished introducing her and Tristan¡¯s friends to the elders, lunch finally started. Several servers began serving food that afternoon.


    While eating, some of them engaged in lively conversation.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long; everyone¡¯s curiosity was piqued when Dax started chatting about games and programming with Stefan. People who already knew Dax were surprised to see him getting along well with someone he had just met.


    Even Tristan and Bella were amazed to see their son so close to Stefan. However, they didn¡¯t comment; they continued to enjoy their lunch while listening to their conversation.


    As Dax exchanged friendly conversation with Stefan, Max, sitting next to Sam, thoughtfully overheard them while trying to remember where he had seen this man before.


    The more Max heard them talk and heard Gael talk about coding and programming like a true expert, the more his fog-filled mind suddenly cleared up.


    Before long, Max¡¯s mind reeled back to a few years ago when he was still a member of the Hacker Community; he had crossed paths with a powerful hacker.


    ¡¯This man¡ª¡¯ Max¡¯s heart stiffened when he realized this man was actually that person.


    Max tilted his head, wanting to glance at his face once more. At the same time, Stefan glanced at Max, who sat beside Sam.


    ¡¯What the fuck!! This man¡­ is the Grim Reaper??¡¯ Max silently swallowed when he saw Stefan¡¯s face more clearly. His heart felt like it would explode, confirming this man¡¯s identity as the powerful hacker he encountered back then.


    Still clear in his mind, he had broken Grim Reaper¡¯s security system and taken his personal picture from there. He thought that picture was not him, but eventually, it was.


    But the price for getting the Grim Reaper image was that he could never reaccess the Hacker Community until now. Because that man tortured him and left him unable to do anything for a year, he lost the respect of his community ¡ª they kicked him out because he wasn¡¯t strong enough to be a member.


    Grim Reaper finally let him go in the second year and warned him never to cross paths again. Since then, he has tried hard to match or even beat him.


    But because of the agreement in the past, Max never had a chance to know how powerful he was now; he respected the deal and didn¡¯t want to break it. He stopped every time he saw the Grim Reaper trail when doing his work¡ªhacking.


    Sigh deeply, Max turned his gaze toward Bella. His respect for this woman became stronger. He didn¡¯t expect his young madam to have such a powerful hacker protecting her.


    No wonder he had trouble a few times when he tried to investigate her more.


    Max thought it was a military hacker protecting Bella¡¯s identity all this time. Still, it turned out to be the Grim Reaper.

 Chapter 350: Lunch Party (5)

    When Max was lost in thought, trying to figure out how to start a conversation with the Grim Reaper, who turned out to be named Gael, Leo and Dana arrived in the front yard. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dana couldn¡¯t hide her worry because they had shown up so late.


    It¡¯s hard for Dana to believe there had been an accident on their way to this place. Traffic jams had halted their car for a few minutes, making them almost twenty minutes late.


    "Leo, would Ms. Donovan be angry about seeing us late?" Dana whispered as she walked into the house, following the man who led them to the back garden.


    "It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll explain to Bella. She¡¯ll understand," Leo said, smiling at Dana. He tried to calm her down.


    Later,


    Leo and Dana arrived at the lunch area. They were surprised to see the long table almost packed with people. Everyone was enjoying their lunch while chatting casually.


    Leo could see Bella¡¯s family; her grandpa and mother were there. What surprised him the most was seeing the figure he had only seen in magazines and on the internet: Lewis Sinclair, sitting with them.


    Instantly, he felt terrible and tense, but he tried to calm his heart while approaching them.


    "Everyone," Leo greeted them politely, making everyone look at him. He continued, "I¡¯m sorry we arrived so late. There was an accident on the road, and our car was stuck for a while." He said this while following Geoffrey, who guided them to their chairs near Harper.


    Leo¡¯s eyes fixed on Bella. He saw her smile at him, and instantly, he felt slightly relieved.


    "Thank God you¡¯re both alright," Bella said while looking at Dana; she smiled when she saw her awkwardly walk beside Leo. "Alright, come here, join us..." She urged them to start enjoying their lunch, too.


    "Thank you, Bella," Leo smiled at her and greeted everyone at the table. After that, they settled next to Harper.


    Isaac Donovan looked at his granddaughter.


    "Are you still waiting for other guests, Bella?" Isaac asked.


    Bella was surprised to hear her grandfather¡¯s question. She no longer thought Sean would come. She knew him well; the man was never late if he promised to come. But it¡¯s been almost thirty minutes, and he hasn¡¯t arrived yet.


    "I am, but it looks like he won¡¯t come. So, let¡¯s eat..." Bella said calmly.


    The lunch continued, and the conversation warmed up with the arrival of Leo and Dana, who now stole everyone¡¯s attention. Everyone was eager to hear their story.


    And not long after, the warm and cheerful lunch ended.


    Dax, Max, and Stefan went back to the computer room.


    Meanwhile, the elders had returned to their place after chatting with the young people. Bella promised her mother she would visit her with Harper later in her stone house.


    Tristan excused himself and his people to continue their discussions in the living room.


    Only Bella and her friends remained, chatting by the lake on a patio near the lunch area.


    They continued questioning the new couple in front of them, Leo and Dana.


    "Tell me, since when did you guys become a couple?" Harper was the one who looked so eager to know about these two lovebirds.


    Bella, who sat beside Harper, stifled a laugh, looking at how panicky Leo was now. Leo tried to signal Harper to stop talking about it without prevailing. She ignored him and continued with her question.


    "Come on, guys, spill the tea for me. I¡¯m kind of envious of you two. Gosh! You make me want to find my other half..." Harper¡¯s voice was filled with jealousy as she continued her plea for information.


    Leo felt like scolding this slow-minded Harper but halted himself because he didn¡¯t want to scare Dana, considering how they usually chatted¡ªthe three of them so close and even thought of each other like siblings.


    "Miss Reed, your question is unimportant," Leo finally answered Harper. "What is important is that we love each other, and our love is equal. That is what matters in a relationship. Is that right, Boss?" he said, glancing at Bella as if asking for help distracting Harper.


    Bella narrowed her eyes at Leo as if she wanted to scold him for dragging her into this conversation. But looking at how he pleaded with his gaze and seeing how awkward Dana was now, she couldn¡¯t refuse.


    Besides, she agreed with Leo that it did not matter when they became a couple. What was important was they both loved each other.


    It was like her marriage to Tristan at the beginning. It was not based on equal love but on her love and admiration for Tristan. In the end, when she¡¯s the only one holding things together, they separate.


    Fortunately, fate and Tristan¡¯s realization of his love for her brought them back together, and now, it¡¯s not just her who loves him. Their marriage is based on their equal love for one another, and this is what allows them to reunite.


    "Agree, equal love is the most important thing. So guys, once again, congratulations to you," Bella sincerely said, feeling happy for Leo, who had finally found his new love.


    "Thank you, Bella..." Leo smiled at her.


    "Dana, thank you for accepting Leo with all his flaws. You won¡¯t regret becoming his woman because he is a loyal man. You are lucky to win his heart..." Bella continued her sincere praise to her best friend.


    "I will..." Dana shyly answered Bella before she turned her gaze away again.


    Dana still felt awkward and shy speaking to Bella. This was the first time she chatted casually with Bella and Harper. Even though they both asked her to call them by their names, her tongue still felt stiff.


    "And Leo," Bella turned her gaze to Leo. This time, her expression was less gentle than when talking to Dana. Slowly, it turned sharp and intense.


    Bella continued, "You are old enough to start a family. Stop dating and start building a family. Have a child just like Jack and also me..." Her sentence stopped when she heard Harper take a deep breath.


    "Sorry, Harper," Bella felt terrible because she could guess what had made Harper look gloomy; she had none when they already had partners.

 Chapter 351: Harper’s Crush

    "It¡¯s fine... It¡¯s fine," Harper said while patting Bella¡¯s hand, which was holding hers and looking worried for her. "No need to worry about me. I¡¯ll definitely find my other half. I¡¯m sure about that, but I just don¡¯t know when."


    Bella slightly nodded while smiling at Harper. She also wanted to see her best friend find happiness in her life.


    "Harper, you need to lower your standards. You expect a partner with too high standards," Leo said, expressing deep concern for her. "Also, every man out there is afraid to approach you... you are too high to reach."


    Harper took another deep breath.


    She agreed with Leo. Numerous men she had encountered in the past were scared when they learned her last name, especially after they knew she was one of the significant shareholders in the RDF Group.


    While,


    Men with the same status as her are not her cup of tea. When she likes one of them, they are already taken or have someone they love.


    Sigh!


    Harper smiled bitterly as she looked at Leo for a few more seconds before she commented.


    "Well, Leo, when our friends married, I abandoned my high standards and pickiness. Well, I do not abandon them in their entirety. I was just adjusting them so it would be realistic. But trust me! I try to lower them but still fail to meet someone my heart could open with..." She shrugged.


    "Seriously, you don¡¯t have someone you like? I mean, someone you are interested in?" Bella asked in concern.


    Now, Leo and everyone else there, including Sam, who earlier wasn¡¯t interested in hearing their chat, focused on Harper and were curious about her answer.


    Harper looked at them in return before finally responding to Bella¡¯s question.


    "I do have someone I like. But the problem is that person is not interested in me. He is so freaking cold to me every time we meet¡­" Harper paused to take a deep breath before she continued, shaking her head. "Well, I don¡¯t have a chance with him. So I will just bury my interest in him." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What the hell? Who is that person? How dare he look at you coldly?" Leo answered irritably. "Tsk, tsk, is there a problem with his eyes? How could he ignore a beautiful and kind woman like you?"


    While Leo flared up hearing someone give Harper the cold shoulder, Bella doubted it.


    "Harper, you may have misjudged him¡ª"


    "Huh!? What do you mean, girl?" Harper asked.


    "I mean, maybe the person is worried that you will reject him; that¡¯s why he didn¡¯t make a move on you."


    Harper slightly raised her eyebrow upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    Before Harper could say something, Bella continued, "You should try to approach him first and give him a sign to let him know that you are interested in him."


    "Should I?" Harper felt puzzled after hearing Bella¡¯s suggestion. But her confusion only lasted a few seconds. She couldn¡¯t approach him without any proper reason.


    Harper secretly scolded herself in her heart for daring to like that man. When she thought about forgetting that man, Bella managed to confuse her again.


    "Well, my friend... of course, you must do it. Because it¡¯s impossible for someone as beautiful and kind as you not to be noticed by men, right?" Bella smiled when she saw Harper¡¯s confused expression.


    Harper almost laughed, hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    "Gosh, Bella Donovan, if only you knew who that person was, you might agree with me immediately," Harper wanted to say. But she held it back. She didn¡¯t dare to admit to everyone that the person she liked was Sean Spencer.


    How embarrassing!


    She had a crush on Sean from the first moment she saw him at Bella¡¯s house in Sweden. At the time, she buried her feelings for Sean because she knew he only had eyes for Bella.


    However, when she heard that Bella had chosen Tristan, her buried crush on Sean slowly resurfaced, prompting her to fly to his city to look at him, even though she clearly understood Sean wouldn¡¯t give her a chance.


    "Dana, do you agree with me? Harper should try to express her feelings to that man, right?" Bella spoke again when she didn¡¯t hear anything from Harper.


    "Y-Yes..." Dana answered Bella¡¯s question shyly. Then, she looked at Harper and said, "Sister, you should try to express your feelings to him. He might like you too."


    This happens to her when she likes Leo; she is afraid to show and express her feelings and worries that Leo will not like her. She even worries that Leo will fire her from the company. But it turns out her fears were groundless; Leo liked her.


    Suddenly, Harper¡¯s laugh echoed, surprising them all with her reaction.


    After her laugh subsided, she said, "Bella, Dana, you¡¯re both right. Even though I know I don¡¯t have a chance with him, I will try to speak to him. Thank you, guys, for giving me courage..."


    Harper didn¡¯t know if this idea was right for her. She would go all out on Sean Spencer, asking him to give her a chance. It would be a blessing if he accepted, but if he rejected it, it didn¡¯t matter. Better to try than not at all, right?


    "Who is he? Do we know him?" Leo suddenly asked.


    Instantly, Harper felt her throat go dry, as if she had just been teleported to the desert hearing Leo¡¯s question.


    "Harper, you can tell us the man¡¯s identity," Bella also chimed in. "Maybe we can help you get closer¡ª" her words suddenly stopped when her cell phone vibrated.


    She quickly checked the incoming text message, and the name on the screen surprised her.


    [Sean] Bells, I¡¯m in front of your house.


    Bella quickly stood up from her chair, simultaneously confusing and worrying Leo and the others.


    "What happened?" Leo couldn¡¯t help but ask when he saw Bella suddenly stand from her seat after reading something on her cell phone.


    "He¡¯s arrived," Bella halted her step while looking at Leo.


    "Who?" Harper asked while standing from her seat and approaching Bella. She was also curious to know.


    "Sean¡ª"

 Chapter 352: When Sean Comes

    "Sean¡ª"


    Bella answered as she walked towards the house. She had to meet Sean before Tristan because she worried they might fight if they met without her.


    Moreover, if her son were around, it would be hard to explain if he saw his father and uncle fighting.


    ...


    After Bella walked towards the house, Harper still stood where she was, her eyes fixed on Bella until she disappeared behind the door.


    Slowly, she felt her head spinning and her heart shaking harder, as if there was a storm in her head and an earthquake in her heart when Bella¡¯s words filled her mind.


    ¡¯Se-Sean!¡¯ she muttered under her breath. ¡¯He¡¯s coming... He finally came!¡¯ Her hands clenched into tight fists as nervousness overwhelmed her at the thought of meeting him.


    Harper tried to calm her mind and return to her seat, but her knees betrayed her. She stumbled, almost falling if Sam hadn¡¯t held her hand.


    "Whoops! Be careful..." Sam said, catching her hand. He frowned, feeling how cold her hand was. He didn¡¯t ask anything but led her to sit on the chair.


    After seeing her settled, Sam couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Are you okay, Boss Harper!? Calm yourself down by sitting here."


    Sam¡¯s tone of worry was clear, causing Leo and Dana, who were chatting, to stop and look at Harper curiously.


    "Nothing, Sam! I am okay." Harper answered briefly.


    "Why does your expression show otherwise? And why did your hand feel so cold?"


    For some reason, Sam doubted Harper¡¯s answer. He looked around, wondering if Harper had seen something they hadn¡¯t, like a snake. They were near the lake and forest; snakes could appear here.


    Seeing her face pale, Sam couldn¡¯t help but ask again, "Boss, did you perhaps see a snake or reptile that triggered your phobia? That¡¯s why you look so scared, right?" He still remembered that Harper had a phobia of reptiles.


    Harper was rendered speechless. She ignored Sam and grabbed a water bottle on the table, emptying it to wet her dry throat.


    Knowing Sean¡¯s arrival made her feel like someone had lit flames inside her. She felt hot, and her heartbeat raced. She didn¡¯t understand why she suddenly felt like that.


    Is it because Bella and Leo gave her the courage to express her feelings to Sean? Or was it because she felt it was pointless to do so and was now willing to give up?


    She could no longer tell the difference.


    Sigh!


    Harper couldn¡¯t recall how many times she took a deep breath to inhale the fresh air. But she has to stop doing that. She was worried that Sam and Leo would notice what happened to her.


    Harper tried to adjust her expression as if nothing had distraught her, but it was too late because Leo had already guessed what was in her mind.


    "Harper, are you feeling alright?" Leo asked, genuinely concerned when he saw Harper¡¯s expression become as white as paper. As Sam said earlier, Harper might have seen a snake, which is why her expression clearly showed her fright.


    "Harper, I know you might have seen something you didn¡¯t want to see; let¡¯s go inside. This might not be too comfy for you..with the appearance of a snake or such." Leo expressed his concern.


    Harper, "...."


    She gritted her teeth while trying hard to maintain her calmness. After a few more seconds, she cast a smile at them.


    "Seriously, guys? How could you assume I saw a snake? I do not see any of them. And I¡¯m alright." She rolled her eyes while asking Sam to sit again on his chair.


    Harper continued her words after she saw Sam sitting, "I¡¯m completely fine. Don¡¯t mind me. I feel hot sitting here for too long. You know me, right? I can¡¯t stand hot temperatures¡­" She answered them casually.


    However, Harper¡¯s random answer made them even more suspicious of her.


    Dana and Leo exchanged glances as if trying to check if they also felt hot. However, they both shook their heads because the current temperature felt excellent and enjoyable.


    The temperature near the lake was around 18 degrees Celsius, with a breeze coming from the mountains. Even though the sun was still brightly lit, the temperature was perfect for everyone.


    Realizing Harper¡¯s anxiety was very personal, they no longer asked Harper anything. Still, they continued discussing the internet¡¯s hot gossip about Laura Kiel¡¯s trial.


    ***


    Bella sped her steps toward the living room, praying that Sean had not yet entered the house but was waiting for her outside.


    She needed to speak to him first before he met Tristan.


    However, her heart tightened when she arrived in the living room. She saw Sean already sitting there with only Tristan, while Dylan and Bryan were nowhere to be found.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to approach them but observed them from afar. She saw they didn¡¯t say anything, only looking sharply at each other as if they were fighting through their gaze.


    She could feel the tension building around them, which worried her a lot; they might fight at any minute.


    After adjusting her not-to-worry expression, Bella cleared her throat to inform them about her presence.


    Instantly, Tristan and Sean turned to see her.


    Bella was speechless when she saw their expressions change. The dark expressions she had seen before suddenly vanished, and their smiles widened as spring came after the cold winter. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Geez! How could they change their expressions this fast?¡¯


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly; she felt amused. As she approached the seating area, she smiled back at them.


    "Sean, I thought you didn¡¯t come," Bella casually said while settling beside Tristan. However, right after she sat on the couch, she felt Tristan¡¯s hand on her waist.


    Before she said something, Tristan pulled her so close to him. So close that she could feel his body heat radiating through their touching bodies.


    Bella turned to look at him, "What are you doing?" she whispered, frowning, confused by his sudden intimacy.


    Tristan lovingly smiled at her and drew closer; he whispered in her ear, "Nothing¡­" Then, he turned his attention to Sean sitting across from them.


    "Thank you, Sean, for coming to our house¡­" Tristan said politely with a smile, surprising Bella and Sean with how friendly he was.


    Before Sean said something, Tristan continued sarcastically, "But you don¡¯t have to force yourself to come if you are busy. This is only a family and friends lunch. It¡¯s only a casual gathering."


    Bella, "¡­"

 Chapter 353: Sean’s Provocative Words

    Bella, "..."


    She thought Tristan was sincerely friendly to Sean, but he scolded him through his lines.


    ¡¯Gosh! How obvious is his jealousy?¡¯ Bella sighed deeply as she turned her gaze to Sean.


    "I also thought you were busy, Sean. That¡¯s why I told my Grandpa you wouldn¡¯t come." She tried to break the tension between the two men.


    "Bells, for you... I¡¯m trying not to be busy and set aside everything else."


    Sean smiled at her. His gaze was gentle but only fixed on her. He didn¡¯t even glance at Tristan, though he could feel Tristan¡¯s sharp gaze on him, but he still ignored it.


    Bella was unsure how to respond to Sean¡¯s provocative words, especially when she sensed a cold aura radiating from her husband, clearly annoyed by Sean¡¯s remarks.


    "There was an accident on the road, so my car got stuck, and you know me, right? I can¡¯t stay still when I know I can help, so I stopped to help the traffic officers on the scene..." Sean continued when he saw Bella not say anything.


    However, Sean¡¯s words made Bella even more speechless. This was the first time she witnessed Sean speaking so many words to explain something; this man was actually the same as Tristan. They are stingy with words when there are other people around them.


    "Oh, I see. It¡¯s very kind of you, Sean." Those were the only words she could say now.


    "Hahaha, no, not really. I just do what any decent human would do. But still, I have to apologize to you and your family because I can¡¯t join you guys for the lovely lunch..."


    Sean¡¯s sincere apology was enough to make Bella feel sorry. She had previously been disappointed in him because he didn¡¯t show up, thinking he was eager to end their friendship.


    Now, Bella remembered what Leo had said earlier about this incident. She thought Leo was making random excuses, but it turned out there had been an accident on his way to her house.


    "It¡¯s fine, Sean. You don¡¯t have to apologize. It¡¯s not your fault that there was an accident on your way here."


    "You¡¯re always sweet, Bells," Sean said casually, but his words made a certain man in the room feel like the giant ¡¯JEALOUSY¡¯ word had struck him like a blow to the head.


    Somehow, Sean felt in a good mood when he saw Tristan¡¯s expression turn dark, like a dark cloud looming behind him. He ignored him and continued to talk with Bella.


    "Well, Bells, I won¡¯t take up your time. Can I see Dax now?" He didn¡¯t want to be in the same room as Tristan, or his calmness would be shattered every time he thought he never had a chance to beat this man, and he hated that fact so much.


    "Yes, sure¡­" Bella turned back to look for someone in the back, but surprisingly, no one was around.


    This looked weird because Geoffrey or a few maids always stood in the corner waiting if they needed something.


    Bella turned to look at Tristan and whispered, "I¡¯m going to look after Dax. Don¡¯t fight with him¡ª" She seriously warned him.


    Tristan stifled a laugh. How could he fight with Sean? That¡¯s not possible. He never hated Sean, but he just envied Sean because he knew Bella long before him. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha... Of course, my dear wife, we won¡¯t kill each other. Don¡¯t worry about us," Tristan deliberately spoke louder so that Sean could hear what they were talking about.


    Bella, "..."


    She didn¡¯t say anything else but stood from her seat.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Bells. I really respect Brother Tristan. I don¡¯t have a plan to hurt him..." Sean also commented and flashed a gentle smile while looking at Bella.


    However, his smile slowly faded after Bella¡¯s back disappeared from his sight, and the tension in the living room became tense again. The two of them slowly entered a staring contest, neither willing to avert their eyes.


    After a few moments had passed, Tristan finally chuckled, tapping the arm of the sofa with his index finger. His gaze remained fixed on Sean, seated across from him. Had it not been for the occasional blink, Tristan might have mistaken Sean for a mannequin; he looked that stiff.


    "Relax, Sean. You don¡¯t need to be that scared in front of me. I won¡¯t hurt you. Trust me," Tristan said jokingly.


    Sean, "..."


    He cleared his throat before responding, "Who¡¯s tense? I¡¯m very relaxed now, man."


    Sean sneered while slightly shaking his head, turning his gaze away from Tristan and trying hard to maintain his calm. He would have challenged him to a fight if he hadn¡¯t remembered he was a soldier and this man was Bella¡¯s husband.


    "Are you sure?" Tristan leaned back against the sofa, waiting for Sean to respond. However, Sean only gave him a ¡¯seriously?¡¯ kind of look. Tristan chuckled and continued, "But why are you sitting as if facing your commander?"


    Sean gritted his teeth before calmly replying, "Oh, this is how I sit if I¡¯m facing my elder..." He smiled, even though he felt like a hurricane raged in his heart.


    His calmness faded when he saw Tristan not responding to his words. Sean continued to annoy him, "You know what, Tristan Sinclair? You should be happy because I respect you like my elder." He grinned.


    No matter how angry he was when he heard Sean¡¯s provocative words, Tristan tried hard to control his emotions. He slowly lowered his gaze while rubbing his eyebrow.


    He didn¡¯t rush to reply, but a faint smile appeared on the edge of his lips before he looked back at Sean. He saw him smile happily as if he had just won something.


    After letting Sean enjoy his happy moment, Tristan said, "I see. I don¡¯t mind if you think of me as your elder, Sean. Thank you. However, it would be best if you also consider my wife your elder. Stop acting like my wife is your best friend¡ª"


    Instantly, Sean¡¯s winning smile faded.


    ¡¯Damn it! I¡¯ve never won against this man. He can turn things around like now...¡¯ Sean vented his frustration in his heart, deciding to ignore Tristan Sinclair from now on. Well, at least until Bella returned.

 Chapter 354: Dax Was Shocked

    Meanwhile, in the computer room,


    Dax was sitting between two computer experts, Max and Stefan.


    After briefly talking with them, Dax decided to play games to test Gael¡¯s gaming skills. He couldn¡¯t trust what his mother said right away; he needed to check.


    "What game are you going to play, Dax? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ll play a game for kids your age?" Stefan said casually, but the little man gave him a stern gaze.


    Stefan pretended not to notice his glare. He needed to test Dax¡¯s programming skills, but it would be too obvious if he tested him too straightforwardly. So, he just went with the flow, watching how Dax played the game.


    "Of course not, Uncle Gael..." Dax smiled at Stefan before he continued. "We will play Survival in the Apocalypse. This is a new game from Soft Tech company. Have you heard about it?"


    Stefan was surprised to hear that. "You play Survival in the Apocalypse?" he asked.


    "Yes, Uncle. But my mother doesn¡¯t let me play alone without adults around me. So, every time I play, Uncle Max becomes my game partner. Because that game isn¡¯t in my age category yet, but I can play it well."


    Dax¡¯s eyes beamed, talking about the game he had played recently.


    "Wow! I became curious and wanted to see your gameplay, Little Man," Stefan smiled.


    "I think I¡¯m quite skilled; my level and skill are way better than Uncle Max¡¯s because I defeated him every single time. Right, Uncle Max?"


    Max almost fell from his seat.


    ¡¯Damn this little boss, how could he expose my poor gaming skills in front of Grim Reaper?¡¯ Max vented his frustration in his heart. He lost his words to answer him and just smiled bitterly at his little boss.


    Stefan failed to notice Max¡¯s miserable expression. He was too busy with his thoughts, thinking that Dax could play a tough game at the hardest or most brutal mode available very well and even beat an adult like Max.


    Survival in the Apocalypse is an online game where five people must work together to complete missions in a city full of zombies and monsters. This is a teamwork game, and knowing this toddler could play the game well surprised him.


    ¡¯Did Bella suggest he play this game? There¡¯s an age limit on this game!¡¯ Stefan wondered while glancing at the curious Dax beside him.


    "Uncle Gael, do you know that game, right!?" Dax asked again.


    "Of course, I know," Stefan answered while smiling.


    He knew about Survival in the Apocalypse; he and his team created the game for Soft Tech, a subsidiary of the RDF Group. Their company, Soft Tech, is one of the biggest game companies in the world.


    "Yay! Let¡¯s play, Uncle Gael..." Dax shouted in happiness. He immediately turned on the computer before him and urged Max to log into the game. He asked him to contact two of their gaming friends to play with them.


    "Max, you don¡¯t have to contact them. We can play the game with just the three of us." Stefan¡¯s words shocked Max and Dax.


    Stefan ignored their frowns and continued, "I will add two of my regular bots to play with us..." he said casually while turning on the computer.


    "What? Do you want to add bots? Do you mean NPC? Hero?" Max was confused to hear that.


    "Yes. But I made these bots myself," Stefan casually answers while turning on the computer.


    "Gael, sorry to ask you again. Do you really know the game we are going to play?"


    "Yeah, I know," Stefan answered. "Survival in the Apocalypse?"


    "Yupe. But why do I feel we didn¡¯t talk about the same game? Because in Survival in the Apocalypse, we can¡¯t play using heroes or bots. We need real players to play as a team to complete the mission."


    Max patiently explained, worried that Gael wouldn¡¯t understand or that the game he talked about differed from theirs.


    Stefan ignored Max and continued typing quickly on the keyboard. Suddenly, the computer screen went dark, and green and red code lines rapidly appeared.


    Dax and Max watched Gael, not asking anything but wondering what exactly he was doing.


    Max turned his gaze away and focused on his computer; somehow, he felt exhausted dealing with Gael.


    However, Dax, who had been watching Gael¡¯s hand movements and the screen, was shocked when he saw the welcoming page of the game they usually played appear.


    ¡¯So Uncle Gael is playing the same game as us...¡¯ Dax thought, his eyes on the player list. He was even more shocked when he saw three players there, and the player ID amazed him. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Uncle, did you really add those players? How could you do that?" Dax asked, confused. He remembered clearly that this game couldn¡¯t be played by bots, heroes, or anything other than humans.


    Before Stefan could answer, Dax suddenly jumped from his seat and moved closer to Stefan¡¯s computer screen. He wanted to confirm the player ID name. It took him only a few seconds to verify it.


    Dax silently swallowed after confirming the name ID and that the three of them were the top players in the global ranking.


    "What happened, Dax?" Max stood from his seat to look at Stefan¡¯s monitor closely. "Wow! Did you invite the top global players? You know them?"


    Just like Dax, Max was shocked beyond words by what he saw. They looked at Stefan, waiting for him to answer, but he just smiled at them.


    "Uncle Gael, do you know them? How did you get their IDs?" Dax¡¯s voice trailed off as he realized something. "No way... Uncle, don¡¯t tell me you own one of these IDs. You are...the top global player? Really?


    For real? OMG¡ª"


    Max was even more shocked when he heard Dax¡¯s words. He couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Gael, is it true?"


    Stefan scratched his head before he answered, "Seriously, you guys don¡¯t know about Soft Tech?"


    Dax and Max exchanged glances before looking back at Stefan, confused.


    "What do you mean?" Max asked.


    "Soft Tech is a subsidiary of the RDF Group. You know about it, right? Fear...?"


    ¡¯Hell! He knows about me?¡¯ Max was shocked to hear Gael calling him by his hacker ID.

 Chapter 355: Do You Know Each Other?

    A wry smile appeared on Max¡¯s lips, knowing that Grim Reaper recognized his identity. He didn¡¯t know whether to be happy or not because so many years had passed, and this man still remembered him.


    After calming his surprise, Max couldn¡¯t help but scold himself for worrying too much. Grim Reaper would never harm him if he didn¡¯t break their agreement.


    ¡¯Alright! Calm down, man. If this man wanted to hurt you, he would have done it a long time ago.¡¯ Max tried several times to convince himself.


    "Sure, GR! I know about the RDF Group..." Max smiled when he saw Gael¡¯s expression, which wasn¡¯t very expressive.


    Stefan remained calm and composed after hearing Max¡¯s words. He stared at him for a few more seconds before a half-smile slowly formed on the corner of his lips.


    "Man, earlier, why did you look shocked? Did you think I wouldn¡¯t recognize you?" Stefan asked.


    Max chuckled, but he didn¡¯t answer the question. Instead, he asked what he needed to know about the game they would play.


    "So, you are the one who created this game?" Max was impressed with Grim Reaper¡¯s abilities. He was a hacker but also created a top game in the industry. Even he couldn¡¯t do that. At Sinclair Group, he was not involved with the gaming division.


    "Well, I won¡¯t claim that I created it, although all the ideas and programming for the game came from me," Stefan answered casually. "But many people helped me take this game to where it is today. Without my team, my idea and programming would never have come to life."


    ¡¯Did this man just sarcastically answer my question?¡¯ Max was speechless, seeing how confident he was.


    Silently venting his frustration in his mind before he said, "I see, you¡¯re so talented, man¡ª"


    "Yeah, I know!" Stefan said.


    Max, "..."


    While Max and Stefan were talking, Dax was confused when he saw them suddenly chatting casually as if they were old friends meeting for the first time in a long time.


    Unable to hold his curiosity, Dax finally asked, "Uncle Max, Uncle Gael, do you know each other? Are you friends?"


    Stefan turned his gaze to Dax. He felt amused when he saw his round blue eyes flash with curiosity. "I know him, but we are not friends. We just encountered each other at work once. Right, Max?" he said before turning to Max.


    "Y-Yeah, that¡¯s right; we¡¯re not friends¡ª" Max stammered, surprised to hear Grim Reaper¡¯s answer; it sounded straightforward. Of course, they weren¡¯t friends; they were enemies.


    Stefan said nothing else. He focused again on his computer monitor, and his hand started dancing across the keyboard.


    After a few minutes, Stefan¡¯s hands slowly stopped moving as he turned to them, "Alright, let¡¯s start playing; you guys can continue chatting later. Quick, accept my invitation. We can start now."


    They both immediately confirmed the invitation from One, the number one player on the global server. Their expressions, seeing that name, remained the same, unreal.


    While Dax and Max were amazed and happy to play with these top players, Stefan was busy observing how Dax played.


    Stefan was amazed when he saw how fast Dax¡¯s tiny arms and fingers danced across the standard keyboard. This boy¡¯s hand and eye coordination are remarkable; he easily top Max¡¯s speed and skill.


    ¡¯Damn! This little man, what a talent!¡¯ Stefan praised Dax silently. He was happy that his sister¡¯s son was a genius boy. Now, Stefan has set his mind. He will offer Dax the opportunity to become his padawan.


    ...


    Bella entered the computer room when Stefan, Max, and Dax were fully immersed in their game and seemed utterly unaware of her presence.


    She was speechless when she saw the grown-ups, Stefan and Max, playing so seriously. However, Stefan still had the energy and attention to scold Max if he was making a silly mistake.


    She heard Stefan call Max "stupid noobs" a few times, which caused her son to laugh.


    Seeing how serious and fun they were right now, Bella didn¡¯t have the heart to disturb them in the middle of the game. She waited a few more minutes, but they were not yet finished.


    Even though she wanted to let them play, she couldn¡¯t let Tristan and Sean be alone. She could imagine they might destroy the living room if they were left alone any longer.


    Sigh deeply, Bella decided to approach them. She gently placed her hand on her son¡¯s shoulder, "Dax..."


    Only then did everyone notice her, leading them to stop playing abruptly.


    "Mommy?" Dax was the first to react, seeing Bella already standing behind him. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m sorry for stopping you from playing, baby..." A guilty smile framed her face before she explained to Dax that Sean was coming to see him.


    Hearing Sean¡¯s name, Dax instantly exited the game and stood up from the chair with an enthusiastic expression.


    "Really, Mom? Where is Uncle Sean? Let¡¯s meet him..." Dax¡¯s little hand immediately grabbed Bella¡¯s hand. He couldn¡¯t waste more time, afraid his uncle would leave before meeting him.


    "In the living room. Your uncle is chatting with Daddy..." Bella faintly smiled, seeing Dax¡¯s eyes beam. She left the room with Dax, leaving Stefan to continue talking with Max.


    When Bella arrived in the living room, she saw Tristan and Sean looking at each other with icy gazes, arms crossed over their chests.


    She could see how tense their expressions were now, as if they were fighting through their gazes.


    Bella felt a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu as she gazed upon the same scene she had witnessed earlier.


    A relieved sigh escaped her lips. Although there was tension between them, they hadn¡¯t harmed each other in her absence, which was a positive sign.


    Her adorable son chimed in before Bella could give them a sign of her presence.


    "Uncle Sean, I¡¯m so happy to see you..." He shouted, breaking the silence and shocking Tristan and Sean.


    Their expressions immediately changed. There was no longer any tension in their gaze, replaced with warm smiles that framed their surprised faces.

 Chapter 356: Why Are You Still Jealous Of Him?

    "Hi, little Dax. Come here and give your uncle Sean a big hug."


    Sean said as he stood up and opened his arms to embrace Dax. After the warm embrace, he picked him up and carried him in his arms.


    "I¡¯m also happy to meet you, little man." He smiled, but his smile slowly faded when he felt Dax lighter than the last he remembered. "Why do you feel light? Have you lost weight?" he asked worriedly.


    "Yes, Uncle Sean, I lost weight after I started practicing martial arts; I do it every day. And I also started a diet because the doctor asked me to. The doctor said this is good for my health..."


    Dax started explaining with beaming eyes, overly enthusiastic about finally being able to meet Uncle Sean again. He and Sean were so engaged in their conversation that they forgot Tristan and Bella were still in the room.


    Bella felt her heart warm as she watched Sean and Dax talk. She silently smiled and stepped back a few steps to give them time to express their longing.


    So far, Tristan has often heard about Dax¡¯s closeness to Sean when Bella or Dax discuss it, but it has never bothered him.


    However, witnessing how close they were with his own eyes made his heart hurt. His hands clenched into fists as he tried not to show jealousy at seeing his son get along so well with Sean.


    A subtle, bitter smile slowly appeared on Tristan¡¯s lips. No words could describe his feelings at that moment. He turned his gaze to his wife, who seemed visibly moved, making his bitter smile even more obvious.


    Tristan walked over to her and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Let them chat together..." he suggested. He felt his heart would hurt even more, and he wouldn¡¯t be strong enough to hold back his emotions if he remained in the room.


    Bella was slightly surprised when she heard Tristan¡¯s words. She turned to meet his gaze and became even more surprised to see the sadness in his eyes. As if knowing what was going on in his heart, she nodded and agreed with him.


    She smiles at her husband before turning to see Sean and Dax, who still carry Dax in his arms while talking.


    "Dax, why don¡¯t you show Sean around the house and the garden? And while at it, you two can talk. Daddy and I will go upstairs," Bella¡¯s voice made them stop talking and look at her. "If you need anything, you can call Geoffrey," she said, glancing at Geoffrey standing in the corner.


    "Okay, Mommy, Daddy..." Dax nodded and smiled at them.


    Sean was surprised that Tristan and Bella allowed him to talk with Dax, just the two of them. He smiled sincerely before nodding, "Sure! Thanks¡ª"


    ***


    Meanwhile, in the second-floor living room,


    Tristan is sitting on a three-seater sofa, looking at his wife beside him. A smile slowly appears on his lips as he sees her watching the Cecilia Blomdahl channel, a YouTuber who records her daily life on Svalbard, an island near the North Pole.


    He tries to say something about Sean and Dax meeting downstairs, but every time he opens his mouth, the words seem stuck on the tip of his tongue.


    Tristan felt frustrated and curious to know what they were doing. When his mind told him to come down to check what was happening, his legs felt too heavy to move.


    How frustrating!


    The clock was ticking; ten minutes passed, feeling like two hours for Tristan. This tired his soul and mind.


    Sighing deeply, he rested his head on Bella¡¯s shoulder and tried to enjoy what she was watching. A few more minutes passed, but his mind was still filled with thoughts of Sean and Dax. He badly wanted to go downstairs.


    Frustrated, he closed his eyes and tried to calm his mind, trying to put aside what was troubling him.


    Bella was surprised to see Tristan resting his head on her shoulder. She could also hear him taking several deep breaths.


    "Are you okay?" she asked worriedly, stopping the television and focusing on Tristan. "Do you want to take a nap?" She suggested.


    Tristan opened his eyes and lifted his head. Sitting straight while looking at her, he smiled.


    "I¡¯m fine. No, I don¡¯t feel like I want to nap..." he said calmly.


    However, Bella clearly sees that his smile fails to reach his eyes. She doubts his calmness and sees that something is bothering him. She could guess that Sean and Dax downstairs were the source of his worry.


    Not wanting to upset and worry him further, Bella no longer asked but pulled Tristan into her arms, surprising him.


    "Mr. Tristan Sinclair, I¡¯m so... proud of you." Still, Tristan frowned slightly in her arms when he heard her compliment. Bella continued, "Thank you for letting Sean meet our son." She whispered, gently stroking his back.


    No words came from Tristan¡¯s lips, but Bella felt Tristan¡¯s arms wrap around her tightly. A smile appeared on her lips.


    They hugged in silence for a while until Tristan¡¯s voice finally broke the silence.


    "I wouldn¡¯t be able to hate him even if I wanted to because he¡¯s too good to you and Dax. But, you know what..." He said before pulling away from her and placing his hands on her shoulders, continuing, "I can¡¯t stop being jealous of him."


    Bella was no longer surprised to hear his confession. She already knew that. She asked, "Why are you still jealous of him?"


    She had tried to ask Tristan this question several times. Still, she always failed to get a proper answer because he often answered her ambiguously.


    "Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re afraid he might steal me away from you?" she casually said, but Tristan¡¯s eyes looked serious, staring at her. "No way, Mr. Sinclair? You still think Sean would do that?" S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No. That guy won¡¯t have a chance to steal you from me..." Tristan finally spoke after a few seconds of silence. "I just...afraid...I...I couldn¡¯t do anything if God let you choose him over me."


    Bella, "..."


    Tristan put his hand on her face, rubbed her smooth cheek with his thumb, and smiled broadly at her.


    "That¡¯s what I¡¯m afraid of¡ª"

 Chapter 357: Heartwarming Conversation

    While Tristan and Bella had a deep talk upstairs, Sean and Dax continued their conversation in the living room.


    Dax summarized all his activities from the last three months, which made Sean feel a mix of emotions, knowing that Bella and Dax¡¯s lives were now happier, surrounded by family love.


    Sean also noticed that Dax¡¯s attitude and manner were very different from when they met a few months ago. He saw Dax smile more often whenever he talked about something.


    He was happy to hear Dax¡¯s story about his life now. However, his happiness slowly becomes painful when Dax describes Tristan¡¯s role and significance in his life.


    Even though his chest hurt, Sean tried to remain calm, smiling to avoid worrying or confusing Dax about his reaction.


    Witnessing the happiness in Dax¡¯s eyes every time he talks about Tristan is enough to remind Sean that he will never replace Tristan in Dax¡¯s life. Never!


    Sean could only vent his misery inwardly and move on. He tries to bury his biggest dream of becoming this little man¡¯s father and caring for him and his mother for the rest of their lives.


    A faint smile slowly appears on Sean¡¯s lips, remembering that dream¡ªa dream he will never achieve.


    Even so, he is genuinely happy for Dax and Bella, who can finally reunite with Tristan and the rest of their family and have the happy life they deserve.


    "I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re happy here, Dax," Sean said, genuinely sincere, ruffling his silky hair.


    "Thank you, Uncle Sean." Dax smiled back before asking Sean to tell him about his mission.


    Sean began talking about the exciting parts of his mission. Although he didn¡¯t go into detail, Dax was still enthusiastic about hearing his story.


    "Uncle, which country did you visit?" Dax asked, curious about the countries Sean had visited.


    "Little guy, you know the rules, right?" When Sean saw him nod, he continued. "I can¡¯t reveal the details. I¡¯m really sorry."


    "I understand, Uncle..." Dax laughed. "I¡¯m just curious. Your story makes me want to visit such a country..."


    They talked for a few more minutes before Dax invited Sean to walk outside. He wanted to show Sean where he practiced martial arts and the beautiful backyard lake where he usually spent his days.


    Standing from his seat, Dax spots Geoffrey in the corner. He walks toward him, and introduces Sean.


    "Uncle Sean, I¡¯d like you to meet my martial arts teacher," Dax said formally, looking up at Geoffrey respectfully. "Teacher, this is my uncle Sean Spencer. He¡¯s a military officer and my mother¡¯s best friend..."


    A proud smile flashed in Dax¡¯s eyes as he turned back to Sean.


    Sean was surprised to learn that this man had taught Dax martial arts. He remembered that the man had been standing in the corner without making much movement, which made him forget that he was even in the living room.


    "Hello, Mr. Geoffrey," Sean said, reaching for a handshake. "Thank you for making Dax stronger than ever..." He expressed his gratitude sincerely.


    "Mr. Spencer, it¡¯s my duty," Geoffrey said, accepting his handshake with a smile. You don¡¯t have to thank me, Sir..." he said, leading them to the backyard.


    "You did a great job. I can see how Dax has greatly changed since I last met him." Sean responded. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sean was curious when he noticed Geoffrey¡¯s distinctive way of walking and moving, which set him apart from most people. He sensed that Geoffrey was no ordinary individual¡ªthis man was likely a former special forces soldier like him.


    However, Sean couldn¡¯t guess which division Geoffrey had served in.


    "Thank you, Sir. I was just teaching our Young Master Dax some lessons in discipline and some basic moves to protect himself," Geoffrey replied. He smiled as he walked beside Sean.


    "Did Little Dax make good progress?" Sean asked curiously, looking at Dax, who was walking beside him, holding his hand tightly.


    "Absolutely, Sir. Dax is diligently doing all his training and has made fast progress," Geoffrey said, praising his young master. He has been teaching Dax for the past three months and can see Dax¡¯s determination and how fast he learns.


    What makes Geoffrey even more proud is that Dax is still very young, yet he never complains about how challenging his practice is and always follows everything he asks.


    "Thank you, teacher, for the praise," Dax glanced at Geoffrey. "I will train harder so I can start learning taekwondo properly," he said with a tense expression.


    Dax knew Geoffrey hadn¡¯t taught him seriously because his mother always complained if he gave him a hard time training.


    "Ha ha ha... Young Master, no need to rush. You still have a lot of time to learn," Geoffrey answered after seeing Dax send him a glare.


    "Yes, Dax. Listen to your teacher. He knows what¡¯s best for you." Sean patted Dax¡¯s hand gently.


    Dax, "..."


    ***


    Harper, who happened to glance towards the house, was surprised to see Sean Spencer walking towards them. Just seeing the man she liked from afar was enough to make her feel like there was a hurricane in her heart.


    ¡¯Oh Lord! Sean is here? Why? Why did he come here?¡¯ Harper thought while trying to calm herself. She sat up straight again, looking in the lake¡¯s direction, not wanting Sean to see her stealing glances at him.


    When Harper thought she could calm her mind and heart, her curiosity kicked in. She couldn¡¯t help but ask Sam to check.


    "Sam... Can you check behind? Did they come here?" Harper asked.


    Harper¡¯s words confused them all. Instantly, they all looked toward the house.


    "Oh, Sean Spencer? Wow, he came to join us?" Leo said, surprised to see the man walk toward the patio.


    Sam stood from his seat, looking at Sean with a frown. He was taken aback to see Sean holding hands with Dax. And when he saw Dax talking to Sean so friendly, it confused him.


    ¡¯Wow! So, Sean Spencer also knows Dax?¡¯ Sam muttered, curious to know Bella and Sean¡¯s relationship.

 Chapter 358: False Hope

    Sam was curious about Bella and Sean¡¯s closeness. He tried to remember if Bella had any family ties to Spencer, but since he worked for her, he had never heard of any.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, Sam finally found his answer.


    ¡¯Damn! How could I forget? They know each other because of Tristan Sinclair, right?¡¯ Sam remembered reading in the news that Tristan had a close relationship with Sean Spencer¡¯s father.


    Sam chuckled inwardly as he smiled at Sean, who had just seen him. He was no longer curious and now felt relaxed, waiting for Sean to join them.


    Unlike Sam, Harper still tried to calm her troubled heart. She sat in her chair with her back facing Sean and Dax. She almost regained her composure, but her efforts failed when she heard Leo say that Sean was heading in their direction.


    Worried that Sean would think her rude for not following the others waiting for him, Harper forced herself to stand and look in Sean and Dax¡¯s direction.


    Just when Harper thought she could calm down, her mind became even noisier, filled with sentences she had made up to say to him.


    She scolded herself inwardly while trying to calm down, ¡¯Oh please, Harper Reed!! Calm down, okay! Relax...don¡¯t let them know what¡¯s on your mind.¡¯


    Nevertheless, her blood rushed when she saw Sean smile. She had never seen him smile except when he talked to Bella or Dax.


    And now, seeing his smile at her, she felt as if God had blessed her.


    ¡¯Sean Spencer smiled at me? Oh my goodness, is this a sign that he¡¯s starting to see me less coldly than before?¡¯ Harper swallowed silently, trying to moisten her suddenly dry throat.


    She smiled back at Sean, trying to appear natural while holding back her happiness. She worried that if she overreacted, he might start ignoring her again.


    Just before Harper wanted to greet him, Leo¡¯s voice stopped her.


    "Hi, Little Dax..." Leo smiled cheerfully at Dax.


    "Hello, Uncle Leo," Dax said. He also politely greeted Harper. However, he looked confused when his eyes fell on Dana. "Uncle Leo, sorry to ask, who is this...?"


    "This is Dana Collins. She also works for your mother as a secretary," Leo answered, smiling lovingly at Dana.


    However, Dana failed to notice it; she was too nervous to speak to this cute little man, Daxton.


    Dana still found it hard to believe that her Boss¡¯s husband was none other than Tristan Sinclair.


    At first, she doubted it when Leo told her. Still, today, when she saw Tristan Sinclair and Lewis Sinclair sitting at the same table with her, she was speechless, unable to say anything. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hello, I¡¯m sorry, Aunty Dana..." Dax¡¯s voice trailed off for a slight second before he spoke again, "Can I call you Aunty? Or sister?" his round eyes blinked and gazed innocently and cutely, looking at her.


    "Aunty would be fine..." Dana answered him hurriedly with a shy smile. It felt weird if Dax called her sister.


    "Aunty, earlier... I didn¡¯t hear clearly when you and Uncle Leo joined us." Dax felt sorry because he was too busy chatting with Gael to be interested in listening to anyone else.


    "Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s fine, Dax¡ª"


    While Dana and Dax chatted, Leo turned his gaze to Sean Spencer. He politely greeted him, even though he knew Sean definitely didn¡¯t know him. He was only trying to be polite here.


    "Hello again, Mr. Spencer. Glad to meet you here."


    "Hello, Mr. Leo Smith. Yes, me too." Sean answered, surprising Leo.


    ¡¯What the heck! He knows me?¡¯ Leo muttered softly. He remembered never giving his full name to this man. Did Bella do it!?


    Before Leo could respond to Sean Spencer, he saw Sean no longer look at him but shift his gaze and smile. To Harper?


    Leo immediately looked at Harper and saw her blushing while smiling, too.


    ¡¯What the heck? Did Sean and Harper have some hidden relationship? No way!!¡¯ Leo was shocked when he realized something.


    But he immediately dismissed that thought. It was impossible for Sean to like Harper. Sean loved Bella. He finds out about them through Bella when he confronts her about why Sean came to their office.


    With a faint smile, Leo turned to see Sean again to ensure he also smiled back at Harper. But what he saw shocked him. He didn¡¯t! Instead, Sean was smiling at Sam.


    "Sam, I¡¯m surprised to see you here," Sean said, offering a handshake, his smile still present.


    "Hello Sean, I am also surprised to see you here. And I¡¯m even shocked to learn you actually know our little Dax."


    Sam smiled back at him while accepting his friendly handshake, shocking everyone to witness that Sam knew Sean Spencer.


    "Well, I¡¯ve known him since he was born," Sean said while ruffling Dax¡¯s hair. He met the little man¡¯s smiling gaze and asked, "Dax, do you mind if I talk with Sam?"


    Sean had so many things he wanted to discuss with Sam, especially after learning that Sam worked closely with Bella.


    "Yes, sure, Uncle..." Dax nodded. "I also need to return to Mommy; she must be waiting for me."


    "Alright, go meet your Mommy. Can you please tell her... after talking to Sam, I will leave and might not have time to meet her."


    Instantly, disappointment flashed through Dax¡¯s eyes. "Uncle, why so fast? Can you stay with us until dinner?"


    Sean half-kneeled before Dax while placing his hand on his shoulder.


    "Sorry, Dax. I wish I could stay here longer and play with you, but I have an important meeting to attend."


    Dax didn¡¯t say anything, but his gloomy gaze was enough to make Sean feel even more guilty.


    "Don¡¯t be sad, hmm? Uncle promises to come and visit you again..." Sean casually said, trying to lessen his sadness. And it works.


    Dax¡¯s eyes beamed, and his sadness slowly faded. "Really, uncle? You promise you will come again and see me..."


    "Yes. I will..."


    Sean silently scolded himself because he had given this little man false hope. He didn¡¯t know when he would return to this place to meet him.

 Chapter 359: There’s No Hope For You To Win His Heart!

    "Thank you, Uncle Sean," Dax said with a blink of happiness, which made Sean feel even more guilty.


    "Alright, go see your Mommy. I will talk with Uncle Sam," Sean said while giving him one last hug.


    Sean knew he would never have the chance to see Dax again because he had already told Bella that he didn¡¯t want to be friends with her. This might be the last time he visited this place and met him.


    "Hmm, bye, Uncle Sean..." Dax said after they hugged briefly. He excused himself and left with Geoffrey to return to the house.


    Suddenly, the place becomes silent after Dax leaves, followed by Sean walking away with Sam.


    Neither of them said anything. Harper was still standing, looking at Sean and Sam walking by the lake, away from her line of sight.


    Leo and Dana were stunned and unsure how to react after witnessing what happened. They saw how Harper had a crush on Sean Spencer. However, Sean completely ignored her, causing Harper to freeze in place. Her disappointment was visible on her face after Sean left.


    "Leo, I think... you should talk with Harper," Dana leaned closer to Leo and whispered. "She seems to need someone to talk with. I will wait for you in the living room."


    Leo was surprised that his girl knew what he was thinking¡ªhe wanted to speak to Harper.


    He smiled at her while taking her hands and gently squeezing them.


    Feeling how smooth her hand was, he felt his blood rush. Their eyes locked before Leo said, "Thank you, Dana, for your understanding." He stifled a smile when he saw her blush.


    He suddenly wanted to pull her into his arms as he noticed how shy she had become. However, he stopped himself because he didn¡¯t want to make her feel even more shy. There was also a sense of urgency; he needed to talk to Harper.


    After he saw Dana enter the house, Leo turned to see Harper. He was speechless when he saw her still standing in place, with her gaze looking in Sean¡¯s direction. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leo didn¡¯t rush to talk to her; instead, he sat in a chair, waiting for her to say something first. But after a few minutes passed, nothing happened. She was still standing without moving or speaking.


    Taking a deep breath, Leo turned to Harper, and as he expected, her gaze was still fixed on Sean. A faint gotcha smile graced his lips as he shifted his gaze again, looking towards the lake.


    "So, the man you like is Sean Spencer, huh?" Leo said it with a tone like a detective solving a criminal case. He didn¡¯t even look at her to add a more remarkable effect, breaking the deafening silence.


    Harper suddenly snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Leo¡¯s rhetorical question. She turned to Leo and was surprised to realize that she and Leo were the only ones there, and Dana was nowhere to be seen.


    She dragged her feet toward the chair and settled beside Leo. Her eyes turned to see Sam and Sean several meters ahead.


    "Oh my God! Am I that obvious that you can see it?"


    "Yeah. Sorry, my friend, you¡¯re TOO obvious..." Leo turned to see Harper. He could see a mix of emotions flash through her eyes, causing him to worry about her. "Harper, can I give you some advice?"


    She said nothing, but Leo assumed she was okay and continued, "My friend, you better forget and forgo him. You will never win his heart. I believe you already know his heart belongs to someone, right?"


    Harper bitterly smiled before answering him, "I know¡ª"


    Her gaze turned to Sam and Sean again; she saw them sitting on one of the park benches by the lake.


    "You know what, Leo?" Harper said, "My feelings for him weren¡¯t sudden. I¡¯ve liked him since the day I saw him when I visited Bella in Sweden a few years ago. I can feel we were meant to be together." She paused to take a deep breath as she started to feel her heartache.


    "But, even though I have feelings for him, I keep them to myself. I never dared to come between him and Bella. I know he really loves Bella. However, when I found out Bella finally chose to return to Tristan, I started to feel greedy and thought that I might have a chance with Sean..."


    Harper appeared calm, but she was hurting internally. Pursuing something she knew she couldn¡¯t have was painful, but her heart refused to give up.


    Leo took a deep breath. He tried to understand her feelings by not saying anything that might hurt her more. He could only follow Harper¡¯s line of sight, looking at Sean and Sam.


    They fell silent for a while.


    However, after a few more seconds, Leo couldn¡¯t help but ask her, "So what are you going to do now?"


    Harper didn¡¯t answer Leo immediately; however, a smile slowly emerged on her lips, confusing Leo.


    Before he could ask, she said, "I will follow my heart. And if my heart wants me to pursue him, I shall¡ª" Her voice sounded relaxed, as if the burden on her heart had been lifted.


    Leo was speechless when he heard that. He had already suspected it. He knew that Harper wasn¡¯t the type of person to give up easily. She would pursue something she wanted, even though she knew it was impossible.


    But, as a friend, he needed to remind her.


    "Harper, have you forgotten that you and he are in different countries?"


    "Jeez, Mr. Leo Smith, have you forgotten that thing called a cell phone?"


    Leo was speechless.


    "As long as I have Sean¡¯s cell phone number, I will still have a chance to contact him, right?"


    "Well, my friend, even though I know this is an impossible mission, I wish you the best. I pray you can be successful and win Sean¡¯s heart, and I hope you guys have a happy ending, too." Leo sincerely prayed for her.


    "Thank you, Leo! You¡¯re a good friend." Harper said confidently. She would never know the result if she didn¡¯t try.


    "I like your confidence, Harper!" Leo gave her a thumbs-up before continuing, "If you successfully marry him, I will sponsor your honeymoon trip. You can choose any country you want."


    Leo smirked when he saw her roll her eyes. "Why? You don¡¯t want it?"


    "Hahaha, thank you, Leo, but no thank you. Did you forget I¡¯m much more resourceful and wealthier than you? You don¡¯t need to worry about it. All I need from you is your prayer. Wish me luck, my friend."


    Leo chuckled before he responded.


    "Well, my friend, I¡¯m not sure about resourcefulness. I think we¡¯re equally resourceful. But, yeah. I know you are wealthier than me. That¡¯s why I can only pray and wish you luck and a wonderful honeymoon trip; I can¡¯t afford to give you a luxury house or a limited edition car."


    Harper burst into laughter. Her eyes no longer flashed gloominess; they were replaced with a burning enthusiasm to win Sean¡¯s heart.


    "Deal!" Harper said while offering a handshake to seal the deal.

 Chapter 360: Reluctant To Leave

    A few days after hosting a lunch party, Bella became busy with her mother¡¯s treatment. She planned to personally accompany her mother during the surgery and throughout her recovery period.


    However, her responsibility at Quantum Capital left her confused. She couldn¡¯t just leave the company without her care, right? At this time, there were many things she needed to pay attention to.


    Surprisingly, when Bella thought she couldn¡¯t take an extended leave, Harper suddenly offered her help. She extended her vacation in this city and would remain in the office during Bella¡¯s absence.


    Grateful for Harper¡¯s help, Bella officially took a two-week holiday until her mother¡¯s surgery was completed and she could return to their house.


    And tomorrow is the day her mother will have surgery. Although this was not her surgery, Bella was afraid. She was worried that something would happen and endanger her mother¡¯s life.


    Dr. Angie Robert, Bella¡¯s mother¡¯s best friend, would become one of the team doctors performing the surgery. She explained the surgery in detail to Bella. She convinced her that the surgery would go smoothly and fast. Still, Bella couldn¡¯t help but feel utterly nervous.


    ...


    "Darling, what time do you leave for the hospital?" Tristan¡¯s voice came from behind, making Bella stop packing the things she would take to the cancer facility.


    Bella turned back and saw Tristan walk toward her, struggling to put on his white slim-fit shirt. Seeing his chest exposed enough to make her blood rush, she swallowed silently while walking toward him.


    "I decided to leave at the same time as you. So, we can drop you off at the airport before heading to the hospital," she answered while helping Tristan with the remaining buttons.


    After finishing, Bella looked up into his blue eyes. She took a deep breath when she saw it, still the same as before. Sadness flashed through his eyes.


    "Mr. Sinclair, why are you still looking gloomy?" Bella asked, remembering they had already discussed it last night. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m really upset with myself. I wanted to be by your side at the hospital, but I have to go abroad for a business trip," Tristan said as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer. "I wish I could have sent someone else to take my place..."


    Bella held back her laugh, hearing his words. She had heard those sentences since last night, and her husband had complained a lot about his work. Now, she knew by heart what he was going to say next.


    Feeling exhausted after hearing his words, Bella immediately said, "Hubby, you will only be gone for two nights. When you get back, you can join us." She tried to coax him out of his sadness.


    While her mother was in a cancer facility, Bella and Dax would temporarily stay in a villa in the area until her mother recovered.


    The place is beautiful and has luxurious facilities. Staying there feels like being on holiday in the mountains, surrounded by nature.


    "I know..." Tristan held her cheeks with both hands while bringing his face closer to hers. Before Bella could say something, he gently kissed her slightly parted lips.


    After their lips parted, he continued, "But I don¡¯t want to be far away from you and Dax, even if it¡¯s just for two nights. I hope you two will come with me..."


    Bella could understand his wish. However, she didn¡¯t answer him; she rested her head on his chest while wrapping both arms around his waist.


    After a few seconds passed, she whispered, "I¡¯m sorry. Even though I want to, my mother¡¯s surgery cannot be postponed. You know that, right?"


    Tristan immediately closed his eyes, feeling mad at himself for being too demanding; Bella and Dax followed him on his business trip.


    He rested his chin on her head while tightening his arms around her.


    "My darling wife, I¡¯m really sorry if I¡¯m too selfish. Alright, I won¡¯t say anything else. I will wrap up my trip faster and return as soon as possible," he said calmly, hiding his disappointment.


    "Thank you, hubby," Bella smiled as she pressed herself into his arms. "You are the best husband, Tristan Sinclair. Even though you weren¡¯t with us, you provided complete facilities for my mother and us during our stay there."


    Bella is very grateful. She will stay with her mother in the best private hospital, owned by the Sinclair Group.


    At first, Bella was hesitant to stay there because it would attract the attention of Tristan¡¯s father and mother. However, after Tristan and Grandpa Lewis convinced her, she finally agreed.


    Tristan let go of her hug and moved a little away from her so he could see her face more clearly.


    "My darling wife, your mother is my mother too. So, you don¡¯t need to thank me," Tristan said seriously, but his mischievous hand managed to pinch her nose.


    She didn¡¯t scold him; she only giggled while hiding her face in his broad chest embrace.


    After their sweet morning,


    Bella took Tristan to the airport with Dax before they headed to the hospital, following her mother, who had been staying at the cancer facility since yesterday.


    ***


    When Bella and Dax arrived at the hospital, which didn¡¯t look like a hospital but like a resort villa complex on a mountain, they were immediately led to an exclusive villa area they would use.


    Bella¡¯s villa is a few meters from the building where her mother will have surgery¡ªa four-story white building in the middle of the villa complex.


    This cancer facility, owned by the Sinclair Group, with expert and qualified doctors and sophisticated medical equipment, is a place that wealthy people in this country often come to for treatment.


    Apart from luxurious facilities with sophisticated medical equipment, it also provides luxury villas for families or patients who want to recover in a quiet place with clean air.


    When Bella and Dax follow Bryan to her villa, her step abruptly stops when her eyes are fixed on someone she is familiar with.


    ¡¯Oh my God... Why is that person here? Did he know my mother will have surgery in this place?¡¯


    Bella¡¯s hands suddenly felt cold; she tried to act calmly and avoid their encounter, but it was too late. That person had already noticed her.

 Chapter 361: Meet Someone She Doesn’t Want To Meet

    Bryan was alerted when he saw Bella abruptly stop. He looked around to check and only found someone he knew approaching them. Instantly, he touched the pin in his jacket.


    "Prepared!" Bryan whispered; however, Bella could clearly hear his words.


    From a few directions, Bella could see several men in black suddenly appear, rushing to their place.


    "Stop them! We don¡¯t need them now¡ª" Bella instructed. When she saw Bryan frown as if questioning her act, she continued, "Bring Dax to the Villa. I will talk to him."


    His expression turned stiff, hearing her instruction. How could he grant that?


    There¡¯s now a way for him to let his young madam meet William Sinclair alone. His boss, Tristan Sinclair, might kill him if he allowed that to happen.


    He clearly understands what happened between his young madam and his boss¡¯s parents. They are like water and oil; they can¡¯t be placed in the same container.


    "No, Ma¡¯am, you must follow us." Bryan insisted. However, when he saw Bella¡¯s sharp-dagger-cold gaze, his heart tightened.


    "Go! Bring my son. NOW! I can take care of myself!" She said coldly as if he wanted to tell Bryan she didn¡¯t want to be refused. This is her final order.


    Bryan feels this is the most challenging matter he¡¯s faced since working for Tristan Sinclair. He gritted his teeth in silence before turning to see his young master.


    "What happened, Mom? Uncle Bryan?"


    He didn¡¯t bother to answer his young master¡¯s curiosity; he said, "Young master, let¡¯s go..."


    But, of course, Dax ignores Bryan, too. He looks at his mother, asking for an explanation through his gaze; however, Dax can see that his mother seems unable to say anything. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mommy, what happened?" Dax asked in frustration. Still, there was no answer; instead, he saw his mother frown before looking in a specific direction.


    Confused, Dax tried to see what happened, following his mother¡¯s line of sight, but his mom and Bryan blocked his view.


    "Baby, please follow Uncle Bryan. Mom will join you immediately," she said in a hurry because William Sinclair was only a few meters away.


    "Mom¡ª" Dax had not yet finished his words; Bella had already turned to see Bryan and urged him to leave immediately.


    "Mam, my people will stand by¡ª"


    "You don¡¯t have to ask them. He won¡¯t harm me. Trust me, and just leave, now!" Bella orders without turning her gaze from her father-in-law.


    Bella could see William Sinclair trying to look at Dax, but Bryan was standing between them.


    This is her biggest concern now; she didn¡¯t want her father-in-law to meet Dax. Not today!


    She hasn¡¯t discussed Tristan¡¯s parents with Dax. Her son knows that his grandparents from his father¡¯s side didn¡¯t like her, and she worries that he will be confused if they meet now.


    Even though Bryan is hesitant to go, he still obeys Bella¡¯s command. He grasps Dax¡¯s hand and hurries him toward the Villa. When Dax attempts to glance back, Bryan blocks his view.


    ***


    Bella felt a little relieved when she saw Bryan and Dax finally leave.


    She turned to look again at William Sinclair. Her hands clenched into tight fists when she saw him standing a few steps before her. She didn¡¯t expect to meet him in this place.


    However, something caught her curiosity, looking at this man again after so many years. His expression was different from what she remembered¡ªhe always looked noble and distant¡ªbut now she could see happiness and, at the same time, misery flash through his eyes.


    Instantly, she remembered Tristan saying that his father wanted to apologize to her.


    ¡¯So he indeed wanted to apologize to me!?¡¯ She could feel his regret through his gaze.


    "My dear Bella," William Sinclair¡¯s deep, clear voice echoed. His eyes shook as he looked at Bella from head to toe. He had never imagined he would encounter her in this place after all the trouble he went through to find her.


    "I feel like God granted my prayer, meeting you here today. This is my lucky day. When I saw Bryan in this place, I thought my son was here, but it looks like you came alone..."


    A smile emerged from William Sinclair¡¯s lips but slowly vanished when he realized something. Instantly, countless questions now appear in his mind, worrying him.


    "Everything okay, Bella? Why are you in this hospital? Where is Tristan? Why didn¡¯t he come with you?"


    William Sinclair asked so many questions without realizing it. He was worried something happened to his son, or even his daughter-in-law, to allow her to appear in this hospital.


    Bella was rendered speechless. Hearing William Sinclair¡¯s too-friendly tone, she didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. He said so many words to her, even showing concern through his gaze.


    This was a rare sight for her to witness. She felt like she was talking to another person, not William Sinclair, whom she used to meet in the past.


    Seeing Bella not answering his question, William Sinclair became worried. "Bella, can we sit on the garden bench and chat for a moment?" he asked.


    Bella started to waver when she saw how friendly he was now, to allow this man to speak to her. However, when he remembered her son, the walls returned to guard her heart.


    ¡¯No! You can¡¯t talk to him now. Not when Tristan is not around¡ª¡¯ She warns herself.


    "Can we walk there, Bella?"


    Bella became frustrated when she heard William call her name again. After taking a deep breath, she finally said, "I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything we need to talk about between us. Not here, not now, not ever."


    William Sinclair¡¯s face suddenly turned worried; his daughter-in-law still hated him and would leave again. No, he can¡¯t allow this opportunity to slip away from him.


    They must now talk about his grandson, the young boy he saw earlier. Or he will not have a chance to meet her again.


    "Bella, I can understand if you don¡¯t want to talk to me," William Sinclair¡¯s voice sounded gentle. "But, please, let me apologize to you for what happened in the past¡ª"


    Bella, "..."

 Chapter 362: Tristan’s Sudden Appearance

    Hearing William Sinclair was enough to make Bella¡¯s heart hurt as if someone had just sliced it and rubbed it with salt.


    Like a slow-motion video, her mind flashed back to when Jessica was rude to her, humiliated her, and verbally abused her. Still, this man, William Sinclair, did nothing to stop his wife. He clearly enjoyed the abuse his wife subjected her to.


    Her hands tightly clenched, trying not to vent her anger in front of this man.


    Bella set aside her idea of giving this man an opportunity. She became resolute in her decision, ensuring he would never get a chance to be close to her or her son. Never!


    After silently sighing, Bella finally expressed what she wanted to say to her father-in-law.


    "Mr. William Sinclair, I already forgive you. But I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t talk to you. Not now or later. And sir, please remember to ignore me if you see me in the future."


    Bella stared back at him, trying to act as calmly as possible. Inwardly, she feared her act now would cause trouble for her in the future.


    She continued to walk again when she saw him; he didn¡¯t utter anything, only stared back at her.


    William was surprised when he saw Bella walking away. He chased after her.


    "Bella, please. Please, wait a moment," William Sinclair shouted, trying to match her step. "Please, I beg you to stop. I still have something to talk to you about."


    Worried that this man would follow her to the villa, Bella had no choice but to stop. She turned to see him again. Looking at his face turning pale, he tried to release his brown tie and loosen his white shirt; she frowned. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Why does this old man look like he¡¯s just run a 5K marathon!?¡¯ Bella wondered, glancing at their earlier position, which was only five meters away.


    William felt relieved to see Bella finally stop. He took a breath before saying, "Bella, thank you for your forgiveness. I am grateful for your kindness despite what happened in the past. You are truly a nice and kind lady."


    Bella, "..."


    Now she understood where Tristan learned how to speak sweetly. ¡¯Gosh, this old man!¡¯


    Before Bella could speak, William Sinclair continued, "Bella, can you please allow me to meet my grandson? Please..."


    Even though Bella had already pictured this and tried to prepare herself to appear calm before William Sinclair, she still felt her heart tighten, and her hands feel cold, holding back her worry and anger.


    She feared this; Tristan¡¯s parents would force or beg her to let them meet Daxton. Or they would forcefully take her son.


    Bella clenched her hands into tight fists. She was trying to keep her calm expression because she didn¡¯t want William Sinclair to know about her fears. Her worries.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Sinclair... but I can¡¯t let you meet my son!" Bella firmly rejected him and ignored his disappointment.


    William Sinclair approached Bella, reaching out to hold her hands, but he stopped when he saw her step back and avoid him.


    "Please, Bella. I know you hate me, but you can¡¯t stop me from meeting my grandson. I have to meet him¡ª"


    "Father, please don¡¯t force my wife to let you meet Dax," Tristan¡¯s cold voice surprised William and Bella.


    They both turned to see Tristan approaching with a dark expression, showing his anger.


    Bella was utterly speechless. She blinked several times to ensure she didn¡¯t see it wrongly ¡ª the man was her husband, Tristan.


    ¡¯Huh? Why is he here? Isn¡¯t he already on the plane?¡¯ Bella was confused, looking at him with an unmistakable frown on her forehead as if she wanted him to explain.


    "T-Tristan¡ª" Her voice trailed off when Tristan¡¯s hand landed on her shoulder and gently turned her to face him.


    When Bella looked up and met his calm gaze, she felt her raging heart subside. Her anger toward William Sinclair no longer tormented her as it had a few seconds earlier.


    "Don¡¯t worry, my dear. Everything will be fine. I¡¯m here," Tristan gently said, feeling his heart ache when he saw her eyes looking slightly red. "You can wait for me in the villa with our son. I will talk to him," he continued.


    Bella nodded while smiling at him before she walked away. She didn¡¯t even bother to glance at William Sinclair.


    Tristan¡¯s angry expression slowly returned when he saw Bella finally walk away. He looked at his father, who was still standing not far from him.


    "You came with Bella?" William Sinclair asked, confused, looking at his son suddenly appearing in this place.


    "Father," Tristan tried to hold back his irritation. "Follow me," he said, walking toward the nearest building.


    A few men in black suits also appeared near the building, opening the door for Tristan and William Sinclair.


    Sitting on one sofa, Tristan frowned and looked at his father opposite him.


    "Son, why are you looking at me like that?" William Sinclair asked. A wry smile appeared at the corner of his lips when his son¡¯s eyes looked cold, as usual. He knew his son was angry.


    "Please, Tristan, don¡¯t blame me. I accidentally ran into my daughter-in-law here. I¡¯m not intentionally following her," William said. He still remembered his son¡¯s warning not to attempt to track Bella¡¯s whereabouts.


    Tristan didn¡¯t respond to his father¡¯s words. His mind was too busy figuring out why his father suddenly appeared in this hospital. He remembered clearly his father and mother weren¡¯t involved in their health business.


    Besides, he had ensured none of his parents would come here during his mother-in-law¡¯s surgery because he didn¡¯t want them to encounter each other like now.


    However, before his plane departed, he received a call from one of his people to inform him that they had seen his father visit this hospital.


    Feeling worried that something might happen to his wife, he postponed his jet boarding time and rushed to this place.


    When he arrived, he was surprised to see his father confronting his wife.


    "You can¡¯t force my wife if she doesn¡¯t want to speak to you, Father!" Tristan said coldly.

 Chapter 363: I’m Sorry I Can’t Help You!

    No matter how angry he was with himself for his past actions, William Sinclair couldn¡¯t vent it to his son, or he would not have a chance to meet his Grandson, Daxton.


    "I know that, but this is my chance to apologize to my daughter-in-law. And..." Willian Sinclair was momentarily silent, worried about saying what was on his mind¡ªafraid his son would be angry again.


    However, when William saw Tristan¡¯s expression soften, he no longer saw his coldness; he decided to express his mind.


    "Tristan, I need to meet my grandson, Daxton. Please allow me to meet him, huh?" William said helplessly.


    "Please, son, let me meet Daxton. I only need to meet him once before death takes me..." William continued to pursue his opportunity.


    Earlier, William had only caught a glimpse of his grandson, enough to make him want to introduce himself directly to the little man.


    William is envious that his father can meet his grandson every day. Ever since learning about Daxton¡¯s existence, he has also imagined having that opportunity.


    Tristan took a deep breath, hearing his father¡¯s words. He didn¡¯t say anything but looked away from him.


    Somehow, he felt exhausted; this wasn¡¯t the first time his father had requested this.


    Looking at his father¡¯s persistence, Tristan feels sorry for him. However, he can¡¯t fulfill his father¡¯s request because he promised Bella he wouldn¡¯t pressure her. Instead, he lets Bella decide whether Dax can meet his grandparents.


    Taking a deep breath, Tristan looked into his father¡¯s eyes. Before responding to him, "I¡¯m sorry, Father, but I can¡¯t decide anything. You know that¡ª"


    Hearing Tristan¡¯s refusal, William felt like someone had put a weight on his shoulders.


    Feeling disappointed, he turned his gaze at the garden outside, immersed in his own thoughts.


    When he discovered that his son, Tristan, had returned to Bella and had a son of his own, he was relieved that his family line would not end with his son. The birth of his grandson, Dax, meant that the Sinclair name would continue, which was all he needed to know.


    Catching a glimpse of his grandson, William becomes increasingly eager to meet Dax.


    He will do whatever it takes to see his grandson again, even if it¡¯s just one more time before he passes away.


    After a while, lost in his thoughts, Willam finally told Tristan about something he had been keeping to himself. But before he could say anything, he saw Tristan stand up from his seat, ready to leave.


    "Tristan, wait...please...just give me a few more seconds," William also stood from his seat.


    "Hmmm, alright. Another few seconds." Tristan frowned.


    William Sinclair¡¯s blue ocean eyes flickered with intense emotion as he looked at his only son. He didn¡¯t say anything for a few more seconds; he tried to calm his heart.


    "Speak now, Father. Your few seconds expire fast."


    "My son, if I tell you my life won¡¯t be long anymore and that my last request to you is to give me just one chance to meet my grandson, would you grant me my last dying wish, son?" he asked, his worry and fear could be heard in his shaky voice.


    Tristan frowned as he was hearing his father¡¯s words. Looking back at him, he was shocked at how red his eyes were.


    "What do you mean, Father?"


    "Tristan, my son, I¡¯m dying," William Sinclair revealed. He told him the reason why he visited the hospital without telling anyone because he didn¡¯t want his family to know about it.


    Tristan was shocked beyond words. Not even his well-defined features could hide the shock on his face now!


    ***


    Meanwhile,


    Bella half-ran toward the villa, the two-story house they would use during her mother¡¯s surgery. She checked behind her a few times to ensure no one was following.


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt worried that her father-in-law might manage to follow her despite her husband¡¯s promise that everything would be alright.


    When Bella saw no one following her, she felt relieved.


    Before long, she finally arrived at the house.


    However, when she saw Bryan pacing in the front yard with a worried expression, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh deeply. She felt terrible for making Bryan worry early in the morning.


    "You can stop pacing, Bryan," Bella smiled when she saw his eyes widen, surprised to see her.


    "Ma¡¯am, are you alright?" Bryan asked while approaching her in a hurry.


    Bella was slightly confused upon hearing his question. "Of course, I¡¯m alright. You didn¡¯t contact your people?" S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bryan suddenly scolded himself. How could he forget to do that? He immediately took out his cell phone and saw several texts in his inbox.


    "I¡¯m fine, Bryan! Your boss suddenly came and is now talking to his father."


    Bella smiled when she saw Bryan¡¯s expression mirroring her own when Tristan suddenly appeared.


    "Boss Tristan canceled his overseas trip? How could that be?"


    Bryan clearly remembered dropping his boss off at the airport. But why did he suddenly come to this place? Did he really cancel his trip?


    "Well, don¡¯t ask me. I am also curious why my husband suddenly appeared here." Bella took a deep sigh before asking Bryan about her son.


    "Young Master is inside with your mother and Noora."


    "Oh, thank you¡ª" Bella stopped before entering the house, worried about Tristan.


    "Bryan, can you go check on Tristan? He might need your help. And... Can you ask Max to hide all the information about my mother?"


    She worried that William and Jessica were aware of her mother¡¯s surgery. Although she despises the possibility, Bella wouldn¡¯t be surprised if the reason William suddenly visits the hospital is to see her mother.


    "Ma¡¯am, please don¡¯t worry. Boss Tristan has already instructed Max to hide your mother¡¯s identity. No one will be able to find out your relationship with Ms. Natalie Wright," Bryan explained.


    Bella was stunned to hear that.


    "So, William Sinclair knowing about us here was just a coincidence?"


    "It seems like it..."


    Bella said nothing; she felt grateful that Tristan had already thought about it. After letting Bryan leave, she immediately entered the house, looking for her son and mother.

 Chapter 364: His Sudden Presence

    Bella saw Dax and her mother in the living room watching television. They were both too immersed to realize she had joined them.


    Trying to hide her worry about Tristan and William Sinclair, she adjusted her expression and joined them.


    "Mother, Dax, what are you watching?" Bella¡¯s question surprised Natalie and Dax. They both turned to see her.


    "Ooo... Mommy... You finally came. Why did you take so long?" Dax asked. His worry clearly showed in his gaze.


    "I heard someone you know is coming. Who?" Natalie asked curiously. After Dax mentioned that Bella had stopped to talk to someone, she became curious about the person¡¯s identity.


    She was suspicious that the person must be someone her daughter was afraid of. That¡¯s why she urged Dax to leave in a hurry.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer them in a rush; she sat beside her son and played with his silk-like hair.


    "Baby, sorry to keep you waiting. Are you watching the news?" Bella tried to distract his interest and stop him from asking her about what happened outside.


    "Hmm, the business news," Dax answered while focusing on the television screen. Bella smiled, successfully stopping her son from asking further.


    However, when Bella saw her mother¡¯s sharp gaze, she couldn¡¯t help but silently sigh deeply. It seemed she couldn¡¯t avoid it. She needed to explain.


    "Who is the person you met outside?" Natalie repeated her question.


    "Uhm. Oh, the person. Yeah. He¡¯s my old friend. He coincidentally visited this hospital too," Bella answered slightly awkwardly while crossing her fingers; she felt wrong lying to her mother.


    Bella¡¯s words confused Natalie even more, "But why did you ask Dax to come here first and not wait for you? You could introduce your son to your business partner, I¡¯m sure?"


    "Yes, mommy. What Grandma said is true. I also wanted to know your friend. Why did you force me to leave that place?" Dax suddenly chimed in, looking up at his mother with a cute, curious gaze.


    Bella, "..."


    She was now puzzled about whether to tell them about William Sinclair or spare them from trouble and keep it to herself.


    After Bella saw her mother and son in return, she finally responded.


    "That person is my business rival. I don¡¯t want him to see Dax¡¯s face. It would be troublesome if he tried to harm me and Dax..." This was the reason she could think of.


    Natalie, who heard that, was shocked.


    "Bella, you did a good job, my dear. Dax¡¯s safety is your priority, no... no... our priority..." Natalie said while stroking Dax¡¯s back. She was worried someone might hurt her grandson.


    "Yes, Mom," Bella said helplessly. Even though she lied about that person, she didn¡¯t lie that Tristan¡¯s parents might hurt Dax.


    "This is why I didn¡¯t want you guys to move to this place..." Natalie continued. She knew how her daughter hid Dax¡¯s identity, especially from Tristan¡¯s family.


    Natalie was even more worried if her husband, Lucas, or brother-in-law knew about Dax. They could use this to achieve their foolish plan.


    "It¡¯s fine, Mom. Tristan has arranged everything. No one will harm us here," Bella didn¡¯t want to dwell on the matter for too long, especially with Dax around.


    She noticed that her son seemed to have thought something to ask, so she quickly changed the subject to her mother¡¯s upcoming surgery to divert his attention.


    "Has Dr. Angie finished examining you, Mom?" Bella asked.


    "Yes, we had a long conversation this morning. They are going to perform the surgery tomorrow at ten in the morning. I have to stay overnight at the hospital for some tests. And according to Angie, I can only come back to this place after they allow me to leave," Natalie explained.


    "Grandma, can we still visit you while you¡¯re there?" Dax asked, showing his curiosity about his grandmother¡¯s surgery.


    "Sure. Little Dax, you can come to see me anytime you want," Natalie said, smiling at her adorable grandson before turning back to Bella. "What about your aunt Emma? Did she manage to come here?"


    Bella nodded before answering, "Yes. Sam arranged for Aunty Emma to fly here this afternoon."


    "Aren¡¯t your father and uncle suspicious about it?" Natalie asked worriedly.


    "They are, but Sam has a way to get Auntie out of there. Besides, have you forgotten that my cousin Liam attends college in this city?" Bella smiled when she saw her mother¡¯s eyes widen.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right; how could I forget about Liam? So, she made an excuse about wanting to visit Liam?"


    "Yes. They can¡¯t stop her because Aunty has officially resigned from the company."


    "What?" Natalie was shocked to hear that. She was aware that her sister-in-law had a vital position in the company. Why did she suddenly resign!? "Why did your aunt do that? Did they fire her?"


    "Mom, of course not. How could they fire Aunty Emma!? They don¡¯t have a chance to do that even if they wanted to."


    "Then why did your Auntie suddenly quit the company?"


    "Aunty Emma is only leaving the company temporarily. She will return when I take over the company." Bella paused as a cold smile slowly appeared on her lips before continuing her words, "She will replace my first uncle as the CEO of Donovan Group..."


    Bella gave some information about her next plan after cleaning up her greedy uncles and father from the company; she would rebuild Donovan Group with a professional team.


    "That¡¯s good. It would be a pity for your aunt if she were fired. She has tried her best to help the company so far. Your uncle is the one who made the company in trouble like it is today, on the verge of bankruptcy..."


    "I know, mother. That¡¯s why I will help my Aunt Emma."


    "You did a good job, my darling." Natalie smiled happily, praising her daughter. "When will your aunt arrive?" S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Maybe in the afternoon. I hope she can arrive before you go into your treatment room."


    Natalie nodded happily; at least she could meet Emma before her surgery.


    Just before Natalie wanted to return to her room to rest, she suddenly remembered Tristan. "Bella... has my son-in-law arrived at his destination!?"


    "My husband¡ª" Bella¡¯s sentence stopped when Tristan entered the room to answer Natalie¡¯s question.


    "I¡¯m not going anywhere, Mother. I will stay here with Bella and Dax. We will stay here and wait for your surgery," Tristan calmly said.


    His sudden presence shocked everyone.

 Chapter 365: You Can’t Lie To Me!

    They all turned toward the door, surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s voice.


    "Daddy? Why did you come?" Dax was shocked to see his father walk into the room.


    "Oh, Son-in-law, you¡¯re back? I thought you were flying now. Why are you here? Is everything okay?" Natalie asked, her high-pitched voice betraying her confusion and worry.


    Bella, who already knew about Tristan¡¯s sudden appearance in this place, was also shocked to hear his words¡ªhe would stay until her mother finished the surgery. What does he mean?


    ¡¯Why did Tristan not return to the airport? Did he cancel his overseas business trip? For real?¡¯ Bella was speechless. She wanted to ask, but her mother had already voiced all of her questions.


    Bella stared at him as he walked toward them calmly, unable to read what was on his mind. She could only look at him with a frown, silently telling Tristan she wanted an explanation.


    While seated on the sofa, Tristan noticed them and smiled, but as his eyes met Bella¡¯s, he could see the confusion in her gaze.


    He didn¡¯t want to make his wife worry and confused, so he immediately explained, "I requested my executive and Dylan to cover for me. They had already flown to the destination country," he said calmly.


    However, his explanation only served to confuse Bella and Natalie further.


    Meanwhile, Dax was so happy to hear that his father would not leave and would stay with them in the house. He assumed this place was their holiday villa, like when they visited their beach house in Nova City. He already had plenty of plans to spend time with his parents.


    Looking at his father, Dax¡¯s eyes shone as he said, "Daddy, so you will also sleep here, right?"


    "Sure, buddy," Tristan replied with a warm smile. However, he felt slightly tense about his multi-million dollar business deal overseas. He hoped the executive he sent with Dylan would be able to manage the assignment successfully and seal the deal with the oil and gas company.


    "Dad, can we play basketball tomorrow morning?" Dax pleaded with an adorable tone. "There¡¯s a basketball court in the backyard," he added.


    "Of course. Mommy will also join us, right?" Tristan and Dax were looking at Bella, waiting for her to respond. Still, she was flabbergasted to hear them drag her into their conversation.


    Bella stopped talking with her mother and turned to see them. She chuckled slightly when she saw their adorable eyes looking at her.


    However, she had already exhausted herself, only thinking of playing basketball early in the morning. Although she likes sports, she prefers marathons to basketball.


    "Baby, I wish I could, but tomorrow, your grandma will start her surgery. I will be busy at the hospital, accompanying her. You can play with your dad," Bella said, making a random excuse to refuse them. She needed time off for her morning exercise.


    Tomorrow, she also plans to wake up late because Tristan won¡¯t be around, and her mother will have already entered the hospital. She thought staying in this place was a holiday for her.


    "Oh, Bella, I have surgery around ten in the morning. You have plenty of time to accompany them to play," Natalie smiled at her daughter and grandson. "Don¡¯t worry about me; Aunt Angie and Emma will be there."


    Bella, "..."


    Instantly, her mother¡¯s words shattered her plan to relax. She had no choice but to agree to their invitation.


    Slowly, her head hurt, and she said goodbye to her relaxed day, mainly because Tristan would stay with them this entire week.


    ***


    After lunch, Bella and Tristan rested on the second floor. This was the right time for her to ask why he suddenly canceled his business trip.


    She clearly remembered this morning; Tristan said that this trip was crucial, so he couldn¡¯t send someone to replace him and had to fly there alone. But now, he is here!


    Bella started to worry that Tristan¡¯s meeting with his father caused him to cancel an important business trip. He wanted to make sure they were all fine.


    Somehow, she felt terrible if he did that.


    They were both lying on the bed, facing the white ceiling above. As usual, Bella lay on his arm. She glanced at him several times and saw Tristan still close his eyes. However, Bella knew her husband was not sleeping. She could feel his restless heartbeat.


    "Tristan, I know you aren¡¯t sleeping," she whispered, staring at his long eyelashes fluttering before his eyes completely opened to glance at her.


    "I¡¯m not. I¡¯m just resting my eyes," Tristan smiled at her. "My dear wife, you must nap before your aunt comes," he suggested.


    "I do not feel sleepy. My mind is busy thinking of someone," Bella took a deep breath before tilting her body toward him.


    Tristan¡¯s brows furrowed slightly.


    "Who? Who is that person who makes you restless? How dare that person stop you from your nap?" he asked in annoyance. "Tell me, I will try to help you and scold that person."


    Bella, "..."


    She shook her head slowly before she placed her hand on his firm chest. "Go on, scold yourself, Mr. Sinclair."


    Tristan was rendered speechless. He could only grin at her.


    "I know how important your business trip is, Tristan...but please... You don¡¯t need to cancel it. Even if your father knows we are here, we will be fine. So, you can continue your plan, flying there," Bella said seriously. She didn¡¯t want Tristan to neglect his work because of her or her family.


    Tristan did not answer her right away; he gently turned his body to face her while slowly placing his other hand on her cheek.


    "Dylan can handle it there. No need to worry about it."


    "You cannot lie to me, Tristan." She still doubted his reassuring words.


    Seeing how sharp his wife¡¯s gaze was now and with no smile flashing through her lips, he no longer tried to humor her.


    "I wouldn¡¯t dare lie to my smart and pretty wife. Trust your husband; I won¡¯t decide anything unreasonable. So, even though I¡¯m not flying there, tomorrow I need to do an online conference."


    Bella was slightly relieved. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m not completely letting them decide. I just sent my executive and Dylan to represent me." After he leaned closer to kiss her lips, he continued. "Thank you, wife, for worrying about me and my business."

 Chapter 366: Can You Give Him A Chance?

    "Tristan, as a good wife, I must always support my husband... I couldn¡¯t help but worry when I heard you abandoned your work only to stay by my side during this difficult time."


    Bella confessed, burying her face in his embrace. She felt too shy to express her feelings about him.


    When she heard his heartbeat, louder than usual, she silently swallowed before asking again.


    "So, are we going to spend our time here with Dax? Aren¡¯t you going to the office too?" She tried to change the subject.


    After hearing her sweet words, Tristan¡¯s lips formed a loving smile. He wanted to see her shy face, but she was already hiding.


    Tristan chuckled faintly before saying, "Yes! I will take my week off, just like you." He pulled her closer to him.


    Bella was surprised to learn that he was also taking an extended leave. She looked up to see his eyes, worried again about his act.


    "Tristan, it¡¯s okay? You are a big boss for a huge company like Sinclair Group. Not like my small company. Besides, I have Harper, who will replace me during my absence..."


    "Well, I also have someone to take care of the company during my absence," Tristan said.


    "Who?" Bella had never heard Tristan mention a trustworthy person to look after his company. Unless the old man finally offers a hand to help. "Did Grandpa Lewis replace you?"


    "Hahaha... Of course not. He is too old to sit in the office." Tristan amusingly laughed when he imagined his grandpa returning to the company.


    "If not Grandpa, then who?" Bella was curious to know. But, before Tristan could answer her, William Sinclair¡¯s face appeared in her mind. Her heart tightened thinking of that man.


    She lowered her gaze, avoiding eye contact with him, before asking, "You asked your father to look after the company?"


    "I¡¯m not asking him, but he volunteered to do that. Of course, I allowed him. This is a rare opportunity to spend my time with you and Dax, right?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him. She doubted his reason because she knew how Tristan handled the company; he was a workaholic. A week without work? It¡¯s impossible to see him do that.


    However,


    She didn¡¯t ask him any more questions because she enjoyed spending time with Tristan and their son without thinking about work. Even though they were there because of her mother¡¯s surgery, the place was amazing.


    They got a huge villa on the corner, near the forest, with city views. The house was very private, surrounded by lush trees, and separate from the other villas in the hospital complex.


    "I¡¯m serious, Ms. Sinclair. My dream was to spend my long vacation with you and our son. I had a plan for our honeymoon, but due to your mother¡¯s surgery and the Donovan Group matter, I had to postpone it..."


    Tristan explained his dream honeymoon, which he had planned in one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.


    "Thank you, Tristan. You are so kind," Bella¡¯s heart swelled to hear how romantic and meticulous his plan for the three of them was. "Sorry, because my family matters, you have to postpone your plan."


    "It¡¯s fine. We can wait until your mother gets healthier and your matter with Donovan Group settles. We still have plenty of time, so there is no need to rush," he said while caressing her hair.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she only smiled back at him and tried to close her eyes; she would be sleepless tonight because her aunt would come.


    They have many issues to discuss, especially what happens in the East. She was curious about what her father had done recently and what her uncle had done to help the company from the brink of bankruptcy.


    However, only a few seconds after she closed her eyes, Tristan¡¯s deep voice rang and surprised her.


    "Bella, is there any chance you would allow my father to meet our son?"


    Her eyes widened when she heard his request. She was shocked and confused. This was the first time Tristan had begged her for this matter.


    So far, Tristan had never asked her directly, only saying what his father wanted, but now, it was different. He is the one who asked her.


    ¡¯Why? Is there a special reason?¡¯


    Pulling her head away from Tristan, Bella looked up to see his eyes. Seeing the worry in his deep blue eyes made her even more confused about how to respond to his request.


    "My wife, I know I sound pathetic and inconsistent now because I asked you this. But this request is something that I no longer can impede." Tristan feels ashamed to betray his promise to her; he will never force her to allow Dax to meet his parents. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now? He didn¡¯t have a choice. His father is dying, and he pleads to him to meet Dax before he dies.


    The first time Tristan heard about his father¡¯s illness, he didn¡¯t believe it. How could his father have such an illness without him knowing?


    However, he was utterly shocked when he asked Max to retrieve his father¡¯s medical report. His father was telling the truth.


    His father no longer had a chance to recover; the doctor even said he could die at any time. Only a miracle could prolong his life now.


    Only then did he realize the many changes that had occurred to his father. His father¡¯s body, which used to look fit, now looks thinner, and his complexion is always pale. His hair, which always looked thick, is now shaved very short.


    He thought all this time that his father wanted to hide his gray hair, but it turns out that since undergoing chemotherapy, he has lost a lot of hair. His father didn¡¯t want them to know about his illness, so he deliberately shaved his head.


    Even though Tristan didn¡¯t like his father, he couldn¡¯t hate him. Not forever.


    His cold heart slowly melted when he saw his father sincerely begging while crying.


    What his father did was something Tristan had never witnessed. His father cried and wept before him ¡ª and it broke his heart!

 Chapter 367: Difficult Decisions

    In Tristan¡¯s mind, his father, William Sinclair, was a strong, tough, and firm figure; he was trained to be a leader and head the Sinclair Group once his grandfather retired.


    However, his father did not take over the company for long. After a few years, he suddenly resigned and handed it over to him.


    All this time, Tristan never knew why his father suddenly handed over the company to him, and only today did he understand.


    "Tristan, I don¡¯t want the company to suffer if this illness takes my life¡ª" His father¡¯s words still had not faded from his mind. He feels sad and, at the same time, sorry for him.


    "Dear, don¡¯t feel burdened. I will not force you if you don¡¯t want to." Tristan said. He felt sorry to see his wife in silence, but her gaze clearly showed the inner conflict inside her mind.


    Bella¡¯s hands clenched slightly when she heard Tristan¡¯s following words. Somehow, she felt selfish because she didn¡¯t think about his feelings. Her hatred of William Sinclair blinded her to the fact that William was her husband¡¯s father.


    "Tristan, please tell me one reason to convince me to give your father permission to see Dax?" A slight smile slowly framed her face, even though, in her heart, she was still reluctant to compromise on this issue.


    Tristan took a deep sigh before he responded to her, "My father, he is dying¡ª"


    Instantly, Bella felt like lightning pierced the air upon hearing Tristan¡¯s words.


    ¡¯William Sinclair is dying!? What does that mean?¡¯ Bella muttered under her breath.


    She didn¡¯t expect to hear this terrible news. No wonder her husband was willing to plead for his father.


    Countless questions now swirled in her mind. She expressed her worry while holding his hand.


    "Your father," her voice trembled. "Why is he dying? What illness is it? Why can¡¯t he be cured? Tristan, go find the best doctor to heal him, please!"


    Bella completely forgot her hatred towards William Sinclair. Now, in her mind, she just wanted to make sure her father-in-law got medical help; she was worried that her husband would be sad if he lost his father so soon.


    "I¡¯ll try. But it doesn¡¯t seem easy because the doctors in this hospital are the best in this country. And they said he wouldn¡¯t live long¡ª"


    "I know. But you can find doctors from other countries, right? Do you need my help? I can ask Jack..."


    "For now, no need. I¡¯ve asked my people to do that. I hope they give me good news soon."


    Silence hung in the air.


    Neither of them spoke as if they were lost in their own thoughts. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, not long after, Bella broke the silence.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry..." She squeezed Tristan¡¯s hand tightly to comfort him so he wouldn¡¯t be sad and worried about his father¡¯s condition.


    Even though Tristan smiled at her, his gaze betrayed him. She could clearly see the sadness in his eyes.


    Before she told him what she had decided, Bella lowered her gaze, unable to look Tristan in the eye.


    "Tristan, I will allow your father to meet Dax, but you must be around. And you should explain what happened to Dax before they meet." Her voice shook slightly.


    Tristan was surprised to hear that Bella had given permission. He knew this decision was difficult for her and was very grateful for it.


    "Bella, thank you so much, dear..."


    "This is the right thing to do. I also feel selfish about refusing your father¡¯s request to meet our son." Bella felt terrible recalling when she refused him, even though she knew her father-in-law wanted to apologize.


    "Darling, you don¡¯t have to feel bad about it. My father could understand it. He and I can¡¯t do anything if you keep hating us. We know we hurt you in the past, and I am grateful to you for giving me a second chance and staying by my side."


    Bella¡¯s eyes felt blurry as she heard his words again. "Oh, please, Tristan...stop it. I don¡¯t want to hear that again. You promised me you would never say those words!"


    "Hahaha..." Tristan could only laugh when he saw how cute his wife was pouting at him while sending her adorable, angry gaze. "Alright, I won¡¯t repeat those words. I promise you." He raised his hand to give her a V sign.


    She finally smiled. But, once more, her smile slowly faded when she remembered something.


    "But, Tristan, about your mother... Was I so mean to forbid her from meeting Dax?" She asked curiously, wanting to know his honest opinion.


    "Of course not. I can understand you..."


    "But, she is your mother."


    "I know, that won¡¯t change anything, even though she is my mother," Tristan smiled when he saw her frown. He continued, "You know what? After discovering how she treated you in the past, I started to hate her."


    Bella¡¯s frown deepened.


    Tristan knew he couldn¡¯t blame his mother for what happened.


    Because what happened in the past was his fault. He didn¡¯t love or pay attention to Bella, which caused the people around him to mistreat Bella, especially his mother.


    Later, when Bella was gone, he felt his heart empty and started to miss her.


    ¡¯Regret always comes later!¡¯


    This quote suited him well because he only regretted it when she disappeared.


    Before then, he didn¡¯t want to hear about her when Geoffrey started to report. He only asked Geoffrey to make sure no one hurt her physically.


    However, when Geoffrey told him that his mother verbally abused her, he finally decided to let her go. And, because of those things, countless times, he wished he could return to that time to correct everything. He will never let her go!


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan. I don¡¯t know if I can forgive your mother," Bella said barely audibly.


    Tristan smiled at her words. He wanted to comfort her so she wouldn¡¯t blame herself too much, but he worried she would feel even more guilty.


    However, there was something that made Tristan want to ask her.


    "My wife, Bella, there is something else that bothers me. Would you be okay if I ask you about it?" Tristan carefully spoke, worried that Bella would be confused or even annoyed.


    "No, not at all. What is it?"


    "Do you know why my mother hates you so much?"

 Chapter 368: Jessica Sinclair’s Dark Secrect

    "Do you know why my mother hates you so much?"


    Suddenly, Bella lost her smile, replaced with the stiffness that now frames her face.


    She knew the exact reason why her mother-in-law despised her so much. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But how could she tell Tristan that his mother attempted to kill his Grandma? Even though she didn¡¯t kill her directly, Jessica¡¯s actions led to Tristan¡¯s Grandma¡¯s death.


    Bella felt torn between telling the truth or keeping silent.


    She could picture that if Tristan or William Sinclair knew about it, they might kick Jessica out of the family. Knowing his mother is capable of making such an evil plan, and Bella believes she likely did it, Tristan would undoubtedly have a broken heart.


    ¡¯How could I expose that?¡¯ Bella was puzzled.


    After thinking for a few more seconds, she fixed her gaze on him.


    "I¡¯m not sure why," Bella decided to keep Jessica¡¯s secret to her grave. "Maybe she hated me because I¡¯m poor; I don¡¯t know¡ª" She continued when she saw him frown slightly.


    Since Bella knew about Jessica¡¯s dark secret, that woman started to hate her. Jessica had plenty of plans to kick her out of the family and shield her secret.


    How evil!


    However, Jessica met her match because, despite her evilness, Bella never swayed or feared her.


    "I¡¯m sorry, wife," Tristan said before he pulled her and embraced her tightly.


    She said nothing further; she just tried to close her eyes and rest.


    ***


    A few hours have gone by.


    Bella was surprised when she woke up from her nap; she didn¡¯t see Tristan on the bed. After freshening up and tying her long hair, she walked out of the room to check on her son, but she found his bedroom also empty.


    Curious to know where Tristan and Dax were, she rushed to the first floor to look for them.


    However, as she descended half of the stairs, she could hear her Aunty Emma¡¯s voice.


    ¡¯Huh!? Aunty already arrived?¡¯ She wondered while increasing her pace.


    Bella was surprised to know she had taken an almost three-hour-long nap. No wonder her body felt like a wooden log, stiff and heavy.


    Arriving in the living room, Bella saw Tristan and Dax with her mother, talking with Emma while enjoying their afternoon tea. No one looked in her direction.


    "Aunty Emma," Bella called her aunt. She smiled apologetically at them when they all looked at her. "I¡¯m sorry, Aunty, I slept too long¡­"


    Natalie smiled when she saw Bella scolding Tristan. She couldn¡¯t help but say, "Bella, stop scolding my son-in-law. It¡¯s not his fault for letting you nap more. I¡¯m the one who asked him not to wake you."


    "Hahaha, you both look so adorable..." Emma couldn¡¯t help but chime in, looking at how Bella and Tristan interacted, reminding her of her youthful days.


    Bella felt shy upon hearing their words. For a brief moment, she completely forgot that her mother and the others were in the room. She looked at them and smiled, then lowered her blushing face to look at Dax¡¯s cell phone, curious to know what game he was playing.


    However, before Bella could see Dax¡¯s game, Aunty Emma suddenly spoke again, which shocked her.


    "My dear niece, I also stopped Tristan from waking you earlier. So, you cannot blame him. Besides, don¡¯t exhaust yourself, Bella; you need to rest to ensure your pregnancy¡ª" Emma said, holding her words when she saw Bella raise her hand to stop her.


    "Oh, please stop, Aunty Emma..." Bella said. She had already explained this to her mother and everyone in the house, but they didn¡¯t believe her. "I¡¯m not pregnant. If one day I get pregnant, I will tell you myself."


    Emma and Natalie exchanged glances¡ªas if they doubted Bella¡¯s answer. It didn¡¯t take long before Emma returned her gaze to Bella and asked, "You guys want another child, right?"


    "Yes, of course, Aunty. We do..." Tristan chimed in after he saw Bella seemed uninterested in this conversation.


    Natalie sighed, relieved. She smiled at Tristan. "Oh, thank God. We thought you guys used contraception; that¡¯s why Bella is not yet pregnant..."


    "Mom, did you forget how difficult it was for me to have Dax?" Bella chuckled when she saw her mother and Aunty gasp in surprise. She continued when she was about to speak. "God will give us the second child when the time is right, so there is no need to worry about it..."


    "Sorry, dear..." Emma felt terrible about bringing up this topic.


    Natalie also expressed her feelings and apologized to Bella before she continued talking with Emma¡ªthey still had so many things to discuss.


    While Dax sat between Tristan and Bella, he was immersed in his game.


    Bella glanced again at his cell phone to check what game he was playing. She was surprised to see her son playing the game from her company.


    She leaned closer to Dax and whispered, "Are you playing with Uncle Max?" She wanted to ensure he was playing with an adult she knew, not a stranger.


    Dax shook his head without turning his gaze from his cell phone. "Mom, Uncle Max can¡¯t play the game. Well, he can, but not as good as me..." Dax said, piquing Tristan¡¯s curiosity.


    He glanced at his son¡¯s game, a frown on his forehead. "I thought you always played with Uncle Max?" Tristan asked.


    Still running his finger quickly across his game, Dax answered his dad without lifting his head.


    "Yes, Dad. But after playing with Uncle Gael, I no longer wanted to play with Uncle Max..." He said in his innocent tone, almost making Tristan cough.


    Tristan¡¯s raised eyebrow became more noticeable. He started to wonder, ¡¯Is Max that bad?¡¯


    Before Tristan could ask Dax again, a vast and eye-catching golden letter suddenly covered Dax¡¯s entire cell phone screen.


    [ CONGRATULATIONS! WINNER ]


    Dax typed something before he turned off his phone. He looked up to his father.


    "Daddy, I prefer to play with Uncle Gael. He is a genius and created the game. He gave me so many resources and cheated to level up faster..." He grinned, feeling proud.


    Tristan, "..."


    Bella, "..."


    It looks like she needs to teach Stefan. How dare he give her son a cheat game? Gosh!

 Chapter 369: Can I Retire?

    Bella, "..."


    It looks like she needs to teach Stefan a lesson. How dare he give her son a cheat game? Gosh!


    Bella tries not to laugh when she hears Dax¡¯s words. She glances at Tristan only to see his worried expression as he looks at their son.


    She tries to give Tristan a sign to explain to their son the meaning of leveling up using a cheat or without his effort. However, her husband doesn¡¯t grasp her sign.


    "Oh, Uncle Gael can create a game? Oh, wow!" Tristan asks while looking at Bella. He seems to need more explanation.


    Bella is speechless.


    ¡¯Gosh! Why is he more interested in Stefan¡¯s ability?¡¯


    "So Quantum also has a game division?" Tristan continues to ask when he sees her and seems reluctant to answer.


    There¡¯s no point in hiding this from Tristan. He already knows, and Stefan has also already exposed himself to Dax. Tsk! She now starts to regret inviting Stefan to lunch at her house.


    Smiling innocently, Bella responds to Tristan, "Hmm, Gael is the man behind our game company; maybe you¡¯ve heard about Soft Tech?"


    Tristan smiles slightly upon hearing that. In the past, he had heard rumors about Soft Tech, which the RDF group owned, but he didn¡¯t believe them because Soft Tech was not listed on the company¡¯s website.


    He still remembers a few years ago when he came across Soft Tech. He was interested in collaborating with them and offered to become their exclusive agent in his country. However, Soft Tech refused with an unreasonable excuse¡ªthey did not want to expand their company in his country and did not need a new partner.


    "Yes, I hear they are the best in this industry. So, was that company really related to the RDF Group? Your company?" Tristan asks, wanting to hear it directly from her.


    When Soft Tech refused to work with his company, he wasn¡¯t suspicious. Now he understands why they refused him with such an excuse. Jack and Gael must have known about him and wanted to teach him a lesson. Remembering those times, he can only laugh bitterly inwardly.


    Bella leans closer to Tristan and whispers, not wanting her mother and aunt to hear their conversation, "Yes, they are, but Jack lists the company under our anonymous company. You know... we just want to keep a low profile and not attract many eyes to the RDF Group."


    "How many anonymous companies does the RDF Group own?" Tristan also lowers his voice, so only Bella can hear. He knows Dax might listen to them, even though he is now immersed in his game again.


    "Sorry, Mr. Sinclair, I can¡¯t tell you that. It¡¯s a company secret." Bella almost laughs when she sees his wrinkled eyebrows.


    "Alright, I will give you one piece of info. The company that now buys Donovan Group was my anonymous company. So, you can ask Max to investigate the company and learn about the wealth of one of the RDF founders..." She continues while pointing to her face with a playful smile.


    Tristan is increasingly curious about his wife¡¯s actual wealth. How many companies does she own and manage? How about her personal assets? He believes she has many assets outside of their country. And for the first time, only thinking of that makes him worry that his wife is too independent and far from the usual traditional woman.


    Trying to humor himself, he asks her, "Ms. Sinclair, do you think I can retire from Sinclair Group and become a house husband to care for our son and you?"


    "What do you mean?" Bella is confused hearing his question. She narrows her eyes at him.


    "I mean, I¡¯m worried that your assets and wealth are greater than mine and that you might find me useless and leave me," he says in a miserable but comical tone, causing Bella to burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha..." Bella¡¯s laughter catches the attention of Dax and the others; they look at her with curiosity and concern.


    ¡¯Darn it!¡¯ Bella silently scolds herself for attracting their attention. After giving them an innocent smile, Bella turns back to Tristan.


    "I don¡¯t even know how wealthy I am. My assets and my money work for me. When I decided to marry you in the past, Jack and Ste... I mean Gael, took care of it. They are basically my investment managers. All I know is that the money in my Swiss bank account is enough to let me live comfortably."


    Seeing Tristan flinch, Bella continues teasingly, "But, Mr. Sinclair, you don¡¯t need to worry. My assets alone won¡¯t beat your company. So, don¡¯t think about retiring! You need to work hard and earn money for us..." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan, "..."


    ***


    When Bella and Tristan are still conversing and giggling, Emma suddenly interrupts them to ask Bella to discuss something in private.


    Bella becomes nervous when she sees her aunt¡¯s expression, which doesn¡¯t look as calm as before. She can clearly see the worry in her aunt¡¯s face.


    After Bella excuses herself to Tristan and Dax, she looks at her mother and says, "Mom, I¡¯m going to talk to Aunty. I want you to get as much rest as possible, okay?"


    Natalie nods. She understands Bella and Emma need to talk privately. Not long after that, Natalie excuses herself to rest before Dr. Angie comes to pick her up and move her to the hospital.


    Later,


    Bella and Emma settle in the guest room, the one Emma would use in the villa, and sit across from each other.


    However, after sitting for a few minutes, Emma doesn¡¯t say a single word. The sentences she wants to say, already on the tip of her tongue, seem to make a U-turn back into her heart.


    Bella can see her aunt¡¯s reluctance to speak. Emma opens her mouth a few times, but no words come out. Bella knows that something is troubling her aunt.


    After waiting a few more seconds, Bella can¡¯t wait any longer.


    "Aunty, is there anything you¡¯re worried about? Please share it with me. Maybe I can help."

 Chapter 370: What A Shame!

    "Aunty, is there anything you¡¯re worried about? Whatever it is, please don¡¯t hesitate to share it with me. Maybe I can help, or at least you could put some of the burden on me." Bella asked.


    Emma Donovan clenches her hands tightly; she can feel how cold they are now. After taking a deep breath to relax, she says, "Bella, I¡¯m sorry I never shared this with you before. Maybe it¡¯s because I thought it was filthy and immoral to share with you. But..." Once more, her voice trails off.


    "Filthy? Immoral!?" Bella repeats her Aunty Emma¡¯s words while trying to figure out what exactly her Aunty wants to say.


    "Y-Yes, Bella... I feel so mad and embarrassed to share this with you, especially Natalie. I¡ª" Again, Emma can¡¯t continue her sentence. She takes a deep breath, her eyes still fixed on her niece with mixed feelings. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella frowned while trying to figure out who could make her aunt feel this way.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Bella to realize that someone specific came to mind. Just thinking about that man made her blood rush to her heart.


    Unknowingly, her expression now reflected her aunt¡¯s disgust, humiliation, and many other emotions that she couldn¡¯t describe.


    After calming herself, she looked into her aunt¡¯s eyes and asked, "Auntie, are you talking about my father?"


    "Y-You..." Emma silently swallowed to know that her niece could guess it right. "You already know about your father?"


    Only look at Aunty¡¯s reaction; she believed one hundred percent the person was her father. His sour smile slowly frames her face.


    "Aunt, if you want to tell me about my father, have another woman; I already know about that..."


    Bella shook her head slowly. She felt embarrassed, remembering the video recording of her father doing something immoral with a woman who was much younger than her mother.


    She was no longer angry that her father had slept with another woman. She wasn¡¯t interested in who the woman was or how many women his father had slept with were out there. That didn¡¯t matter to her; the important thing was her mother did not suffer because of her father.


    Bella¡¯s current focus is ensuring her mother¡¯s complete recovery from breast cancer, as well as living happily with her little family.


    Emma blinked a few times, stunned that her niece knew about the problematic situation involving her brother.


    "Y-Yes, I¡¯m talking about your father. Bella, when did you find out about him? Did your mother know as well?" Emma asked, looking worried.


    When she spoke with Natalie earlier, Emma hesitated to bring it up, fearing that this matter could disrupt Natalie¡¯s therapy as she prepared for surgery and needed more relaxation.


    Since learning about his brother Lucas¡¯ other hobby, having so many women out there, and also being abusive towards his wife, Emma wishes she could break things off with him. He felt embarrassed to call him brother.


    A wry smile slowly emerged from Bella¡¯s lips as she looked at her aunt. Every time she remembered, she felt like the zoo wreaked havoc on her stomach.


    "What other embarrassing things did he do now?" Bella asked as if she didn¡¯t care. She was immune to anything about her father now; she already thought she didn¡¯t have a father.


    Finally, Emma revealed what she knew about Lucas. She had recently heard that he brought a young woman back to his house.


    "You know things are precarious at the Donovan Group, right? Reporters wait in front of the building daily to get news or interview our employees."


    "I am aware."


    "Well, because of that, your father and uncle no longer come to the offices due to being targeted by the media. Especially after your third uncle was detained at the police station, reporters started camping near our office."


    Bella already knew about the situation there from the people from the Sentinel Network they had put in to report the news.


    "Your father brings a young woman to stay at your house. Your father said the woman he invited to the house was his secretary. However..." Emma paused, feeling like a stone stuck in her throat to continue her words.


    Bella frowned, but she said nothing.


    After clearing her throat, Emma continued, "Well, a maid who sides with your mother called me; she reported that that woman entered your father¡¯s bedroom every night..."


    Emma¡¯s voice trembled, and she could feel her face getting hot. She was too angry to imagine those immoral things. "I¡¯m sorry, Bella, to tell you about this. I just feel like I can¡¯t hold this news alone. I¡¯m sorry..."


    ¡¯Father! You are such a wicked beast. No, you are lower than a wicked beast! You don¡¯t deserve my mother. You wait! I will avenge what you did to my mother!¡¯ Venting her sarcasm inside her head, Bella tightly clenched her teeth.


    She tried to maintain her calmness, not wanting her aunt to see her feelings now, even though her burning anger flashed through her eyes.


    ***


    Three days after Natalie Wright¡¯s successful surgery, she finally returned to the villa to join Bella and the others. However, she still needed observation before they could return home.


    Bella no longer needed to go back and forth to check on her mother at the hospital, as she had done in the last few days.


    In the last two days, she has also been busy welcoming guests who came to visit her mother¡ªGrandpa Isaac, a few of her friends, and even Aunt Emma¡¯s son, who stopped by to meet them.


    Her days in this house are typically filled with pleasant gatherings, such as meeting her friends and family.


    However, today is different.


    Since the morning, she has been tense; no smile appears on her lips, even when Tristan tries to cheer her up.


    "Darling, why do you look so afraid and tense?"


    Her step halts, and she turns to see Tristan sitting on the sofa in the corner with an iPad on his lap. His calm smile, however, is not enough to relax her heart.

 Chapter 371: Bella’s Concern

    Her step halts, and she turns to see Tristan sitting on the sofa in the corner with an iPad on his lap. His calm smile, however, is not enough to relax her heart.


    Bella stood there for a few more seconds, trying to answer Tristan¡¯s question. However, she couldn¡¯t find an answer. The funny thing was, she didn¡¯t know why she felt that way.


    She sighed deeply, trying to force herself to express her feelings.


    Seeing his wife, who looked confused, he didn¡¯t say anything. Tristan placed his iPad on the table and stood from his seat. He approached her and said, "Alright, let¡¯s go check on Dax..."


    "Did you explain to him why he finally got to meet your father? He knows your parents hate me, but I don¡¯t want our son to hate your father or view him as negatively as I do."


    "Don¡¯t worry. Our son is a smart boy. He knows everything and understands how to handle the situation," Tristan reassured her when he saw concern in her eyes.


    Bella nodded quietly. She knew that but just wanted to ensure her son wouldn¡¯t be confused about the situation.


    "What time will your father come?" Bella asked before Tristan knocked on Dax¡¯s bedroom.


    Tristan answered after he checked his watch. "I guess, in ten minutes."


    "Yes, come in," Dax¡¯s soft voice could be heard from inside after Tristan knocked on the door.


    However, when Tristan was about to open the door, Bella grabbed his hand to stop him. He glanced at her, confused.


    He didn¡¯t know what she was thinking, but her shaking gaze was enough to tell him that his wife was utterly nervous. Seeing the lingering nervousness in her eyes, Tristan smiled, trying to reassure her.


    "Is there anything else you want to say to me?"


    Bella nodded, unable to meet his eyes to express her thoughts. She lowered her gaze to look at her hand, still holding Tristan¡¯s.


    "Hubby, is it okay if I don¡¯t meet your father?" she whispered as she slowly released her grip. "I¡¯m afraid my resentment towards him will show when I meet him now, and I¡¯m worried our son will witness that."


    Tristan smiled as he took her hand and gently squeezed it. When he saw her finally lift her head and meet his gaze, he said, "Sure, dear. Take your time. There¡¯s no need to rush to forgive him. Besides, today, he only asked to meet Dax." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯ve already forgiven him. I told him the last time we saw each other. But I just feel like I¡¯m not ready to talk to him. I hope that day will come sooner, but not today," Bella said, feeling bad about saying this.


    Tristan was surprised to learn this. "I¡¯m delighted that you¡¯ve forgiven him. Thank you so much, my wife..."


    "Hhm. Tristan, I..." Bella¡¯s voice faded as the door opened, and Dax¡¯s worried expression surprised them both.


    "Mom, Dad, why are you both standing there? I already allowed you both to enter. Didn¡¯t you hear me?" Dax asked.


    After he let his parents in, he waited a few minutes, but no one came in. Curious and afraid, countless imaginations began to fill his mind; the ghost might be playing a prank on him, knocking on his bedroom door. Well, even though he didn¡¯t believe in such things, he still felt chills.


    After waiting a few more seconds, no one opened the door, so he decided to check whether he had heard it wrong or if a ghost was trying to test his nerves and make him believe that things existed.


    He felt relieved when he saw his parents. The existence of supernatural beings like ghosts that almost made his beliefs shake became firm again ¡ª there are no ghosts on this earth; it¡¯s just a myth.


    "Are you ready, buddy?" Tristan ruffled his hair to distract him from asking anything.


    "Yes, Dad..." said Dax, fixing his blue shirt and white long pants. He didn¡¯t like this clothing; he preferred sportswear, but Aunt Noora ensured he wore it. He had no choice but to endure this uncomfortable feeling.


    "You look perfect and more handsome, baby..." Bella held her son¡¯s hand. "Alright, let¡¯s go."


    Dax, "..."


    Now, he was suspicious. His mother must have asked Noora to make sure he wore these outfits. "Thank you, Mom," he said and grinned.


    The three of them went downstairs to the first floor. Tristan and Dax waited for William Sinclair in the living room while Bella visited her mother in her room.


    When Bella arrived at her mother¡¯s room, she saw Aunt Emma there too. Their surprise was reflected in their eyes when they saw her open the door.


    "Bella, why are you here?" asked Natalie.


    It wasn¡¯t just her mother who was confused; Aunt Emma also felt the same way. "Isn¡¯t your father-in-law coming? You weren¡¯t with Tristan and Dax to greet him?" she asked.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer them right away. Instead, she walked in to join them in the sitting area. She smiled upon seeing her mother and aunt¡¯s curious gazes, then picked up an orange from the table and began to peel it.


    The scent of the orange immediately relieved her nervousness. She smiled at them before responding, "I don¡¯t have plans to meet him."


    Natalie¡¯s eyebrow furrowed as she asked, "You still don¡¯t forgive him?"


    Bella looked at her mother after putting a piece of orange in her mouth and chewing.


    "I have forgiven him, but I don¡¯t think I can chat with him like family just yet."


    "It¡¯s fine, Bella," Natalie, who knew what happened in the past when her daughter still lived in the Sinclair household, felt sad for her. She could understand her daughter¡¯s feelings now. "You need more time to heal. There¡¯s no need to feel sad about it."


    "Yeah, Bella. At least you already allowed him to meet Dax," Emma said.


    Bella said nothing more and continued to enjoy the orange while watching the television. She was just aware that her mother and aunt were watching a rerun of a K-drama*.


    She tried to understand the drama, but somehow, she couldn¡¯t; her mind was now filled with Dax and Tristan in the living room.


    ___


    *K-Drama = Korean Drama

 Chapter 372: William Sinclair Finally Meet Daxton

    In the front yard,


    William Sinclair felt constantly nervous after Tristan and Bella allowed him to meet Dax, so he asked his father to accompany him here today.


    He was unsure but worried that Dax would be shocked to see him and afraid of him. Perhaps if his father was around, whom Dax was used to seeing, the kid would be more relaxed about seeing him.


    ...


    The two got out of the car.


    However, before Lewis Sinclair walked towards the door, his brow furrowed when he saw two large boxes being taken out of the trunk.


    "Will, what are you bringing? What are those boxes?" he asked while continuing to walk after he watched the bodyguard carrying the boxes following them.


    "Oh, those are gifts, Dad. I bought a special gift for my grandson," William answered happily. He didn¡¯t know what to bring for Dax, but his assistant suggested he get a pre-built Lego set for the young child.


    "Wait, a gift? What gift?" William¡¯s steps stopped before he entered the door that Geoffrey had opened for them.


    "Yes, Dad. Why?" William slightly raised his eyebrow, looking at his father, confused. "I shouldn¡¯t bring anything to meet Dax? Dad, come on, this is my first meeting with my grandson..."


    "Of course, you should bring something. But the problem is, what gift did you buy?" Lewis clearly remembered the first time he met Daxton; he had given him the wrong kind of toy.


    His great-grandson had different hobbies and interests from other children his age. He was worried his son would bring something useless.


    William started to worry that he had brought the wrong gift. Now, he regrets not asking Tristan about the matter before purchasing the gift he got today.


    "A toy that many children his age would like," William confidently said.


    Lewis Sinclair smirked before speaking. "Well, I must warn you. Daxton doesn¡¯t like receiving toys he doesn¡¯t like, and your grandson is different from other boys his age. What did you give him?"


    "Lego..."


    Lewis Sinclair chuckled when he heard his son bring Lego. "Lego? Daxton doesn¡¯t like Lego because it¡¯s too easy for him to solve it," he said.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Dad," William slightly smiled. "This is for seven years. This would be challenging for my grandson..."


    "Hahaha, Will, you seem to have underestimated your grandson. Well, let me tell you, even Lego for fourteen years and above, it¡¯s too easy for him to solve it..." Lewis said, then went inside without waiting for William to say something.


    Lewis Sinclair found it amusing to see William now. How dare he compare Dax to another child his age!? He is a genius.


    "Sir, what should we do with this?" The bodyguard who was carrying the packages asked, surprising William.


    Although he felt reluctant, William decided to give it to Daxton anyway.


    "Follow me," William said while walking quickly to keep up with his father.


    When they arrived in the living room, William felt nervous and tense again, especially when he saw a little boy sitting next to Tristan. The little boy was engrossed in listening to his father and had not noticed their presence.


    "Little Daxton, Gramps misses you so much..." Lewis Sinclair¡¯s voice echoed in the room, surprising Tristan and Dax as they both looked in their direction.


    William stood beside his father, feeling tense when he made eye contact with Daxton. He tried to smile but felt slightly worried when he saw Dax suddenly shift his gaze to his father.


    With his smile, Dax greeted Lewis, "Gramps... I miss you too."


    Tristan chuckled when he heard how his Grandpa and his son interacted; he looked at his Grandpa.


    "Oh, come on, Old Man. You met my son yesterday; how could you already miss him?"


    Tristan playfully teased to relieve the tension in the room. He could see his father looking nervous and standing in place but with mixed emotions as he looked at Dax.


    "Hahaha, I miss my little Dax because I usually see him daily," Lewis said, holding Dax¡¯s hand and pulling him near William. "Alright, Dax, this man beside me, you know him, right?"


    Dax nods. He had seen his picture online; he was his Grandpa, William Sinclair. Meeting him in person, Dax noticed that William has features similar to his father¡¯s but not precisely the same. He could imagine that when his father was old, he might be comparable to him.


    "Hello, I¡¯m Daxton Donovan Sinclair..." Dax greeted William Sinclair politely.


    William overcame his nervousness when the little man finally spoke to him. His eyes felt blurry as he looked into his beautiful blue eyes, which stared back at him.


    "Ha-Hallo Da-Daxton, I¡¯m William Sinclair; you can call me Grandpa," he said, trembling. "I¡¯m glad to meet you finally, Dax. Can I embrace you?" He extended his arms for a hug from his grandson.


    When William thought the little boy didn¡¯t want to hug him, he inwardly laughed sourly while slowly pulling his hand away.


    However, William¡¯s eyes widened seconds later when he saw Dax step forward and open his arms to embrace him. Instantly, William felt like he had almost had a heart attack, shocked.


    He bent down and hugged his grandson for the first time. Not only did he hug him, but he carried him, too.


    William was so happy to meet Daxton finally; however, what William did surprised the little boy.


    Dax wanted to ask his Grandpa to release him, but when he saw his Grandpa¡¯s slightly red eyes, he seemed to be crying in silence; he held it back and just smiled faintly while glancing at his father as if to ask for help to free him¡ªhe didn¡¯t like it when someone carried him.


    "Alright, Dad... You can put him down. My boy is already too heavy for you to carry him around." Tristan said and tried to take his son. But William didn¡¯t allow it; he walked to the sofa and sat to follow his father. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan took a deep sigh. He didn¡¯t just make a random excuse to take his son, but he was worried because of his father¡¯s illness. He might not have the energy to carry Dax.

 Chapter 373: The Tension

    Tristan wanted to remind his father about his illness. Still, suddenly, he remembered that his father didn¡¯t want the family to know about it.


    He sighed deeply and pressed his lips tightly as he walked to the seating area to join them. He sat silently opposite his father, who was now talking to Dax.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything but scrolled through his cell phone; however, he could hear what they were talking about.


    Listening to their conversation was amusing for Tristan because his father and Grandpa seemed to be competing to attract Dax¡¯s cute attention. How silly!


    After a few more minutes, Lewis and William Sinclair continue trying to impress Dax with their stories.


    When Tristan saw the warm family drama unfolding before his eyes, he was amazed at how confident and quick-witted his son was in dealing with his two elders. Dax managed to subtly avoid choosing a side or showing favoritism, and he cunningly did it without the elders noticing.


    Dax was so calm and honest when he talked to William Sinclair. This was utterly different from Tristan¡¯s worry that his son would give his father a cold shoulder, but he did not.


    Before long, the three of them had already been talking for almost an hour, and it seemed they still had plenty to discuss.


    Tristan remained silent but signaled Geoffrey to bring some snacks and drinks for them. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Tristan stopped and called him closer when he noticed two men holding two boxes in the corner.


    "Geoffrey, you can ask them to place the gift over there," Tristan said, pointing to a corner not far from where they were seated.


    Just then, William Sinclair recalled the welcome gift he had brought for his grandson.


    Remembering what his father had told him earlier, William Sinclair felt the tension in his heart return. He was curious and wanted to know Dax¡¯s opinion about his present.


    "Dax, Grandpa brought you a gift," William said, rising from his seat and handing one of the gifts to Dax.


    "What is it, Grandpa?" Dax asked curiously while scanning the nicely wrapped box, which looked enormous, like the size of a desktop box.


    "This is Lego for children seven and above. It must be challenging for you to build," William Sinclair explained while observing his expression. A frown slowly appeared on his forehead when he saw Dax wasn¡¯t enthusiastic.


    "Oh, little Dax, you don¡¯t like Lego?" William asked. Silently, he swallowed hard when he saw his grandson blinking but not moving to open the gift.


    After a few more seconds, Dax¡¯s smile slowly emerged from his lips. He said, "Grandpa, thank you. I used to like Lego and similar toys when I was two. But these days, I prefer other things, like building and assembling my own computer or CPU."


    William Sinclair was stunned to hear that. His father was right that Dax¡¯s hobby differed from that of another child his age.


    ¡¯How old is he now?¡¯ William Sinclair tried to count Dax¡¯s age.


    It didn¡¯t take long; William gasped in shock, realizing his grandson was only a few months away from his fifth birthday. And he was already interested in building his own computer. He is indeed a genius.


    Dax continued his sentence. "Grandpa, even though I don¡¯t like playing with Lego anymore, that doesn¡¯t mean I don¡¯t like it at all. Thanks again for the gift. I can put it together later..." His words were enough to make William feel relieved.


    "Hahaha, I¡¯m delighted to hear that, little man..." William Sinclair felt happy. Then, he took something from his pocket and handed it to Dax. "This is my other gift for you. Take it," he said, placing it in Dax¡¯s chubby hand.


    "A card?" Dax looked at the card in his hand, frowning. He had never seen that card before; he only recognized the logo¡ªit was his father¡¯s company, and the card was a trading card allowing the holder to trade stocks.


    Tristan and Lewis Sinclair, who saw the card, suddenly sat up straight.


    "Father, you set up a trading account on the stock market for my son!?" Tristan asked, not believing what he was seeing.


    Tristan had not yet created a trading account for Dax. He was only starting to teach him the basics of stock investment and the importance of buying and holding stocks for the long term.


    Despite his son¡¯s interest in trading, Tristan had only recently permitted him to experiment with dummy money using stock market trading apps.


    William frowned upon hearing Tristan¡¯s question.


    When Tristan didn¡¯t get an answer from his father, he could only smile bitterly. However, his smile slowly faded when something crossed his mind.


    ¡¯My father can¡¯t make a trading account for Dax... he is not Dax¡¯s legal guardian.¡¯ He murmured under his breath.


    Tristan felt relieved to realize that. Just as he was about to say something, his words stopped at the tip of his tongue when he heard his Grandpa speak.


    "William Sinclair, you are so unbelievable," Lewis¡¯s high voice clearly showed his anger and disappointment toward his son.


    He narrowed his eyes at William before venting his anger, "Daxton is not yet five, and you have already thrown him into the business field! You have to remember, my little Dax only needs to learn physical strength and discipline. Wait until he grows up enough to learn that field."


    Lewis Sinclair was concerned that his son had the ambition to make Dax just like Tristan when he was young. If William does that again, then he is indeed stupid.


    Still clearly in Lewis¡¯s mind, Tristan started to hate his father. He drifted away from his parents when he was exhausted from learning to become Sinclair¡¯s heir from a young age. Now, looking at William¡¯s gesture, he felt deja vu.


    Sighing deeply, exhausted from thinking about his foolish son, Lewis Sinclair turned his gaze away from William and looked at Dax. He wanted to know what the little boy thought about that card; he must have been confused and scared hearing their conversation.


    However, Lewis Sinclair was surprised to see how calm Dax was now, and his eyes beamed as he looked at the card.


    ¡¯Did he understand it?¡¯ Lewis Sinclair wondered. Before he could ask, William suddenly laughed, confusing everyone, including Dax.

 Chapter 374: Why Do You Act Like You Want to Die Tomorrow?

    "Father, you overthink," William said after his laughter subsided. "I gave my grandson that card as a welcome gift to express my gratitude because he was born healthy and became my grandson. The amount of money in that card and the shareholding is my gift for him..."


    Lewis was speechless.


    Dax could only blink, looking at the card and then up at his Grandpa, confused.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Father. I don¡¯t have a plan for what you¡¯re worrying about." William Sinclair¡¯s words paused; he almost said, "I don¡¯t have much time to do that. Death is approaching; I will cherish my time with my grandson and my son..." He swallowed silently, trying to smile at his father, worried his father could read his thoughts.


    William¡¯s priority in his last days was to right the wrongs he had done in the past; he no longer cared about money and power because none of that would follow him to his grave.


    Lewis Sinclair was relieved to hear this. However, he still thought giving Dax such a gift was too hasty.


    "William, I understand your intention, but don¡¯t you think this is too rushed? Why do I feel like you¡¯re about to die tomorrow, and you¡¯re giving Dax his inheritance now?" Lewis said, smiling, feeling amused by his son¡¯s foolish act.


    William Sinclair felt like a lump of charcoal was burning in his throat as he heard his father¡¯s words. How could he have guessed it right? Worrying that his father would discover the truth, he hid his concerned expression behind a forced laugh.


    "Ha-Ha-Ha...father, you are so funny. Who will die tomorrow? Please¡ª" William said playfully.


    When Lewis laughs with William. Tristan remains silent and cold.


    Tristan knew that his father was seriously ill, and the doctor had said he could die at any moment. He clenched his teeth, held himself back, and refrained from speaking.


    While Dax was still puzzled, he thought his Grandpa had permitted him to handle the market account without supervision. But it seemed he had not.


    Realizing this, Dax became afraid, considering a considerable amount of money must be inside the account. He looked at William and waited until he finished speaking to Lewis before finally saying something. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you, Grandpa... But this is too much for me as a welcome gift," Dax expressed his concern. He couldn¡¯t accept it until his father or mother allowed him to.


    Knowing that his father did not have a good relationship with his Grandpa Will, Dax believed he would reject it immediately.


    Curious to know his father¡¯s opinion, Dax turned to see him, "Right, Daddy? This is too much for me!?"


    "My dear Dax, it¡¯s fine. Your father will allow you to accept..." William answered, looking at Tristan as if he wanted to signal him not to refuse his gift to his grandson. This is probably his last gift for Dax.


    Now that Tristan heard his son¡¯s question, he felt very emotional. When he saw his father¡¯s sorrowful gaze, he had no choice but to allow his son.


    After trying to compose himself, he gently smiled at Dax and responded, "Dax, it¡¯s fine. You can accept it. However, you can¡¯t use the money until you¡¯re an adult..." Tristan said casually, but his words surprised Dax and Lewis.


    Dax blinked several times just to make sure he had heard it right. It was hard for him to believe his father had accepted it immediately without thinking.


    Lewis Sinclair also had the same surprised expression as Dax. He didn¡¯t expect Tristan to allow his son to accept his father¡¯s money. He remembered that from his teens until he married, Tristan never wanted to take what his parents gave him.


    ¡¯Why did he suddenly let Dax accept it?¡¯ Lewis wondered. Suspicion began to arise in his mind as he looked at Tristan and William alternately. ¡¯Why... they look like they are hiding something from me?¡¯


    Tristan didn¡¯t want his Grandpa and Dax to ask him again, so he immediately distracted them by discussing other matters.


    They talked until, finally, William Sinclair ended up having lunch and dinner at the villa and had the opportunity to meet Natalie Wright.


    When William discovered that his in-law had undergone top-secret surgery at their hospital, he was shocked. The surgery was so secretive that even Bella¡¯s father didn¡¯t know about it.


    William Sinclair wanted to ask why they kept the surgery a secret, but he refrained from asking when he got a signal from Tristan to stop.


    ***


    The day finally ended, and William Sinclair excused himself. Although he was reluctant to leave, he couldn¡¯t stay there too long, or his wife would be suspicious.


    William walked with Tristan to his car. He could see his son was still concerned about his health. Knowing that his son still cared for him warmed him inside, and he felt grateful for that.


    "Tristan, if you show those expressions before the others, they might know about my illness. And don¡¯t worry too much about me; I¡¯m now at the stage to accept this ordeal from God..." William paused his words when he saw his son frown.


    "Well, simply put, I think this is the price I have to pay because I wasn¡¯t a good father to you or a father-in-law to Bella," William continued.


    Tristan was speechless when he heard his father¡¯s words. He was genuinely worried about his father¡¯s health. Because his people, who were now searching for the best doctor abroad, had not returned with any good news. Deep down, he still hoped that a doctor could help to cure his father.


    "I¡¯m not worried about it," Tristan replied. He couldn¡¯t tell his father what he was doing now, afraid his father would stop him from doing that. "I just want to say, please don¡¯t come here again."


    William Sinclair¡¯s step came to an abrupt halt. He looked at his son. Inside, he felt crushed, but he managed to keep a smile as he accepted his son¡¯s request not to see his grandson anymore.


    Tristan frowned as he saw sadness flash through his father¡¯s eyes.

 Chapter 375: A Death Sentence Drastically Changes a Person

    Tristan frowned as he saw sadness flash through his father¡¯s eyes.


    "My son, I understand you forbid me to meet Dax again," William Sinclair said casually while gently tapping Tristan¡¯s shoulder. "No need to feel bad about it, son."


    William Sinclair understood that he couldn¡¯t force Tristan to allow him to meet Dax again. He was grateful to have met his grandson once, which was already a blessing for him. With his wish fulfilled, he felt he could die in peace, knowing he had a grandson as handsome and intelligent as Dax.


    Tristan¡¯s mouth twisted as he heard his father¡¯s words. It seemed his father misunderstood him.


    "Father, you didn¡¯t understand what I mean..."


    "Did you ask me not to meet my grandson again?" William asked, confused.


    "No. I said you can¡¯t come here too often because it would be dangerous if my mother became suspicious of your frequent visits. It would be troublesome if my mother found out that Bella and her mother were here."


    William was stunned. He didn¡¯t think that way.


    "You know, my mother-in-law¡¯s surgery was top secret, right? Even Bella¡¯s father and the rest of her family didn¡¯t know about it," Tristan continues.


    "Ah, this is what I was trying to ask you earlier. Why did they keep this surgery a secret?"


    Tristan pinches his eyebrow before answering his father.


    "I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t explain it to you in detail. But, something happened in the Donovan Family. Natalie Wright hides in our place. And, if my mother knows, she might tell Lucas Donovan about this. So, Dad, please never tell anyone, including my mother, about Natalie Wright."


    William nods while patting his son¡¯s shoulder once more. A reassuring smile slowly appears on his lips.


    "No worries. I will not tell anyone, including your mother."


    "Thanks, Dad. And about Daxton, of course, you could still meet him, but not here. Later, if we return to our house, you could visit him there," Tristan said.


    Tristan had already discussed this with Bella, and she agreed to let his father visit them whenever he wanted, as long as he didn¡¯t bring anyone else, including his mother.


    William Sinclair was startled to hear that. He couldn¡¯t hide his wide smile now, too happy and too relieved to know he had many opportunities to visit them and see his grandson again.


    "Really, Tristan? You allow me to see my dear Grandson Daxton?" William Sinclair¡¯s voice was slightly shaky, his eyes locked with his son¡¯s. "I can visit your house? Would Bella allow me to come?" He needed reassurance; somehow, he felt like this was a dream, not something real, and he worried.


    When he spoke with Bella earlier, William Sinclair could sense her unease around him. She didn¡¯t say a single word, but he didn¡¯t take offense; he understood her feelings.


    "Yes, you can. And, yes, Bella also allows you to visit us," Tristan replied faintly.


    "Thank you, son," William¡¯s voice quivered with happiness. It meant a lot to him that his daughter-in-law, who had suffered because of him, and his wife had given him this chance. It was already a blessing; he wouldn¡¯t ask for anything more.


    "Alright, I won¡¯t come here again. Please call me when you guys return to your house."


    Tristan didn¡¯t know how to react. It felt strange to see his father looking so vulnerable and sad. It was something new for him. How surreal!


    ¡¯Does a death sentence drastically change a person?¡¯ Tristan wondered, nodding as he confirmed his father¡¯s question.


    ***


    A few days later, Bella and her family finally return to their house in Little Heaven.


    Meanwhile, Emma has also returned to East City. She can¡¯t stay in the capital too long because she worries about her brothers becoming suspicious.


    However, when Emma arrived at her house, she was shocked to see her brothers inside and sitting in the living room waiting for her.


    What surprised her even more was seeing several well-built men surrounding the room and her house workers standing in the corner, looking intimidated and scared.


    Her hand clenched into a tight fist. She could clearly guess what was going on here. She tried to appear as calm as she could.


    Now, Emma understood why the guard in front of the gate and her housekeeper acted strangely when she arrived. From the look in their eyes, it was as if they were asking for help; however, she was completely unaware of that. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She continues her steps towards the sitting area, joining her brothers.


    Even though Emma was worried and scared about the situation, she did her best not to show it. A forced smile appeared on the corner of her lips as she sat on the sofa, calmly addressing her siblings one person at a time.


    "Thank you for visiting me in these difficult times, brothers," Emma said, her smile faint. "But, I feel like I didn¡¯t deserve your busy time. Why bother coming to my humble house with so many bodyguards?" She asked casually, glancing at the men who filled the room.


    Jacob and the others answered Emma¡¯s question with annoyed looks.


    "Stop beating around the bush, Emma!" Jacob Donovan¡¯s booming voice echoed, thickening the tension in the room. "Where have you been in the past weeks? Who did you meet in the capital?"


    Emma frowned.


    "What¡¯s the deal? Why do you want to know about my private matters!?" She snapped, glaring at her eldest brother.


    Jacob gritted his teeth. However, before he could say something, Lucas Donovan chimed in, "Don¡¯t try to hide anything from us, Sis Emma. We know what you are doing there. We know what you¡¯re up to."


    "Yeah! It was useless. We know you went to the capital but didn¡¯t meet your son. But someone else..." Thomas Donovan said.


    Emma¡¯s eyes fixed on Thomas Donovan, her younger brother. She was confused because, as far as she knew, her younger brother had been detained in the police station.


    Instantly, countless questions now filled her mind:


    ¡¯How could he be sitting in my living room? Did they release him? Seriously? How so?¡¯


    Emma was so curious that she ignored their sentences and asked, "Thomas, why are you here? Shouldn¡¯t you be at the police station¡¯s jail?"

 Chapter 376: Emma Is In Danger! (1)

    Emma was so curious that she ignored their sentences and asked, "Thomas, why are you here? Shouldn¡¯t you be at the police station¡¯s jail?"


    Thomas chuckled.


    "Sis, you don¡¯t need to know how I got out of that damn place!" Thomas said coldly, his eyes sharp as he looked at Emma. "Just answer our question. Who did you meet in the capital?"


    Emma shut her mouth tightly as she looked at them coldly. There was no way she would tell them about Natalie and Bella. Otherwise, they would all rush to the capital to drag Natalie back to this city and make a deal with Bella to solve their problem.


    How pathetic they are! She felt disgusted just looking at them, and realizing they bore the same last name as she made her disgusted even more.


    Lucas Donovan¡¯s patience was starting to run thin. He looked at Emma, who narrowed her eyes at him but didn¡¯t say anything.


    "Sister Emma, are you with Bella and Natalie in the capital?" Lucas Donovan¡¯s cold voice suddenly made Emma¡¯s body shiver.


    ¡¯How could he guess it right? Did they succeed in tailing me?¡¯ Emma swallowed.


    After a few more seconds of staring at her foolish brother, she finally spoke.


    "Lucas, why are you still looking for Natalie and Bella?" She asked, even though she could guess his answer.


    Seeing that the three of them didn¡¯t answer her question, Emma continued, "Don¡¯t tell me you try to look after them because you think they can help you solve the company¡¯s problems!? Is it!?"


    Their expressions slowly became stiff and dark, like a dark cloud looming behind them. Emma vented her anger in her mind, feeling ashamed of their shamelessness.


    "It¡¯s all because of Bella! If only she hadn¡¯t disappeared and married Bradley, everything would be fine."


    Emma was dumbfounded hearing her older brother¡¯s words. How could he casually blame Bella for something that was not her fault?


    Unable to take it anymore, Emma expressed her anger, "Jacob Donovan, Lucas Donovan, and you, Thomas Donovan..." Her voice sounded cold enough to cause all of them in the room to be surprised to see her calm expression slowly turn sharp.


    After ensuring all her brothers pay attention to her voice, she continues, "Are you guys pretending to be stupid, or are you guys really STUPID?"


    Jacobs and the others frown more visibly, which brings joy to Emma.


    "How can you blame Bella? She had nothing to do with your shameless decisions. Do you think Bella is a little girl? Let me remind you all, especially you, Lucas." Emma narrowed her angry gaze at him. "Your daughter is an adult. She is already thirty, not thirteen!"


    "You¡ª" Lucas Donovan could not continue his sentence; Emma raised her hand to silence him.


    "Lucas, stop claiming that Bella is your daughter. You don¡¯t represent a father figure to her at all. Simply put, you don¡¯t deserve to be Bella¡¯s father."


    Lucas couldn¡¯t hold himself back. Hearing his sister¡¯s words, he felt like his blood pressure was about to explode.


    "What the heck are you trying to say, sister Emma?" Lucas snapped. This was the first time he raised his voice to her, but he didn¡¯t regret it at all.


    "For goodness¡¯ sake, Lucas Donovan! How can you not understand what I¡¯m saying? Gosh! No wonder Natalie left you. Not only rude, but you¡¯re stupid, too!" Emma stifled a laugh, looking at how red her brother¡¯s face was now.


    As if all the blood was now flowing towards his face, Lucas pointed his finger at Emma in annoyance.


    "Emma, even though you are older than me, I¡¯m not afraid of having to discipline you like I disciplined that stupid Natalie. Likewise with Bella..."


    Lucas took a deep breath, filling the air in his chest, which suddenly felt tight; his anger almost suffocated him.


    "What an ignorant damn daughter. If I find her, I won¡¯t show her mercy. How dare she run away from me? And now, she also teaches her mother to run away!!" Lucas¡¯s eyes turned red as if a fire had now burned there. He was so pissed off.


    Jacob and Thomas Donovan, who witnessed Emma and Lucas exchanging insult words, could only remain silent¡ªwaiting for these two to stop.


    However, it didn¡¯t take long. Suddenly, Emma burst out laughing, and the three men raised their eyebrows, confused.


    "Oh dear Lucas, stop it, please. Stop it, or you will regret it." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas was even more confused hearing that.


    "Do you want me to give you a suggestion, Lucas?" Emma said, delighted to see her brother¡¯s angry expression. "If you continue to blame Bella and try to take care of her, you might as well dig your own grave because you¡¯ll need it soon."


    "Damn it, sister!" Lucas cursed, trying to restrain himself from slapping his older sister. He clenched his fists, attempting to calm his anger.


    "I know it! Emma, you know where Bella is, right?" Jacob Donovan suddenly interjected.


    A wide smile appeared on Jacob¡¯s lips as he waited for Emma to respond. However, his sister didn¡¯t look at him; instead, she checked her cellphone.


    Emma was surprised to see Bella¡¯s short text:


    [Bella] Aunty, I know. My father and my uncles are in your house. I¡¯m sending my people to stand by if they try to harm you.


    [Bella] Call me and put it on speaker. And pretend nothing happened.


    [Bella] Take care, Aunty...


    Instantly, Emma felt warm, pleasant air fill her heart. The tension, the scary thoughts that filled her mind and heart earlier, slowly faded.


    She was so happy that Bella knew what was happening in her house. She would be safe if her stupid brother tried to hurt her and her people.


    After she followed Bella¡¯s request, Emma placed her cell phone beside her, pretending nothing had happened.


    Later, her gaze fixed on her older brother, Jacob. She wasn¡¯t afraid of him now.


    She trusted Bella would protect her if her shameless brother tried to force her to reveal the truth about Bella and Natalie¡¯s location.

 Chapter 377: Emma Is In Danger! (2)

    "If I know, what do you want me to do?" Emma responded to Jacob coldly. "You want to force me?"


    Jacob smirked while casually leaning back against the sofa. He was so happy that Emma knew where Natalie and Bella were.


    "Come on, Emma," Jacob¡¯s voice sounded gentle. "How could I use force on my little sister? Of course not. But I will ask you nicely. Tell me, where¡¯s my lovely niece, Bella..."


    Lucas and Thomas¡¯s eyes beamed, surprised to hear their older brother¡¯s words. Now, they were convinced that Emma knew where Bella was.


    Their smiles showed happiness as they turned their gazes at Emma and waited for her to respond. They felt joy now because they could still escape their company¡¯s crisis.


    Once they found Bella, their problems would settle. They no longer had to repay Bradley Caville¡¯s money because they would become in-laws.


    In addition, if they become in-laws, Bradley will help them control the media¡¯s narratives, which have attacked and spread negative news about them because of the bribery case.


    Even now, Bradley Caville is also having problems with his company, which is having difficulty selling anything in its numerous stores. However, he is still wealthy enough to live comfortably. He can pay the media to bury the negative news surrounding them.


    However, when Lucas and Thomas felt happy, their happiness slowly faded when they heard Emma¡¯s answer.


    "I won¡¯t tell you anything, brother Jacob. So stop forcing me!" Emma firmly rejected it. She didn¡¯t want all of them to stay at her house longer.


    Before she asked them to leave, a piece of shocking news struck her when Jacob spoke.


    "It looks like you no longer care for your dearly only son¡ª" Jacob¡¯s voice hung in the air when he saw Emma gasp in shock, her face slowly pale.


    Jacob continues, "You seem to understand what I mean, sister." He stifled a laugh. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING, JACOB DONOVAN?!" Emma snapped, angry to hear Jacob suddenly bring her son into their conversation.


    "What are you doing to him?" She pointed to her older brother, furious. "Jacob, if you lay a finger on my son, harm him. I promise you, I will kill you!" She started to feel worried, thinking her brother would really harm her son.


    Jacob didn¡¯t bother hearing his sister¡¯s intimidating words. Instead of worrying, he felt amused to witness Emma lose her calmness and become angry.


    "Relax, little sister. I won¡¯t do anything to my nephew as long as you tell me where Bella is." He smiled.


    However, Jacob¡¯s friendly smile slowly faded as his expression became as cold as a glacier.


    He said, "But if you refuse to tell me the truth, my people¡¯s hands might slip. Well, sis, you know my people are slightly foolish, right? They might break my nephew¡¯s leg or even injure his handsome face¡ª"


    Jacob Donovan crossed his hands over his chest and smiled happily. It was fun to see his sister¡¯s face now show fright.


    Once more, Emma felt her blood run cold, imagining her only son being tortured. Just thinking about it was enough to make her feel suffocated. Her confidence suddenly crumbled, completely different from when she received a short message from Bella.


    ¡¯Bella?¡¯


    Emma¡¯s eyes slightly lowered as she saw her cell phone. Another warm feeling swallowed her when she remembered Bella hearing their conversation.


    She needed time for Bella to take action.


    ¡¯If Bella finds out something happened here, she must know how to track my son, right?¡¯ Emma wondered.


    The calm she had lost earlier slowly returned.


    Slowly, Emma¡¯s confidence grew. She was no longer worried. Her gaze returned to her eldest brother, Jacob.


    She didn¡¯t rush to respond to her jerk brother but stared back at him confidently.


    "Jacob Donovan, you are the worst person I have ever encountered in my entire life!" Emma casually said; however, Jacob and the others almost vomited blood.


    Instantly, countless questions bothered their minds;


    How could she drastically change?


    What happened to her confidence?


    She didn¡¯t believe it?


    Why? How?


    After a few seconds, silence enveloped the air. Finally, Jacob spoke again, "Oh my, my little sister Emma, it seems you really want to see my nephew Liam paralyzed!?"


    Instead of anger or fear, Emma laughed while waving her hand¡ªa sign she didn¡¯t buy Jacob¡¯s words¡ªto add fuel and make him speak more. She said, "Do you think I believe you? Jacob, I¡¯m old enough to know whether you are telling the truth or trying to scare me!"


    Emma needed to make Jacob reveal where he had detained her son so that Bella could hear him and send her people to rescue Liam. This was the only way she could help her son and ensure his safety.


    Jacob Donovan started to get impatient talking to his slow and stupid sister. He cleared his throat while taking his cell phone before returning his displeased gaze to Emma.


    "It seems like you underestimate me a lot, Emma. Fine. I will show that you are so stupid not to believe me. And to see how frightened your son is now," Jacob said before dialing a number to do a video call.


    Emma didn¡¯t say a word. She smiled at Jacob even though inwardly, she felt like her heart was about to stop beating. She was too frightened they would not find her son, and her brother would really break Liam¡¯s leg or injure him badly.


    "Don¡¯t regret and blame me if my people break Liam¡¯s hands or injure your son¡¯s pretty face, Emma." Jacob succeeded in adding tension to Emma¡¯s heart.


    Emma tightened her fist. A shiver ran down her spine when she saw the video call finally connect.


    It didn¡¯t take long for the fear she imagined to become real. Her evil older brother had indeed captured her son, Liam.


    Emma saw her son sitting in a chair, tied with rope, and his mouth taped shut to prevent him from speaking. What made her almost lose her cool when she saw her son¡¯s eyes so red and tears still streaming down his cheeks.

 Chapter 378: Emma Is In Danger! (3)

    Emma strongly wanted to give her evil brother a powerful slap but remained calm and managed to resist it.


    She tried to take her cell phone to ensure Bella still heard them and did something to help her son. But, once more, she holds herself. She clenched her teeth, returned her gaze to the cell phone screen, and saw her son whimpering.


    It looks like her son is trying to say something, but Emma can¡¯t hear any sound; the video call is turned off.


    "Emma, now you believe me, right!?" Jacob¡¯s voice echoed, breaking the silence in the room. His upper lip lifted slightly to form a satisfied smile when he saw Emma¡¯s eyes radiating anger and fright staring at his phone screen.


    A few seconds later, Jacob pulled back his cell phone. "Now you are the one who decides your son¡¯s safety. Tell me which one you choose, Bella¡¯s location or Liam¡¯s leg?" his icy tone returned.


    Emma realized that Jacob had not yet disconnected the video call, and this relieved her; Bella had plenty of time to trace the caller.


    After some time, Emma finally said something.


    "So, you detained my son in his apartment?" Emma asked. She recognized the background where her son was sitting. It was Liam¡¯s living room apartment.


    Jacob¡¯s mouth twitched upon hearing that Emma didn¡¯t take his words seriously. She even tried to guess where her son was.


    He frowned, narrowing his eyes at her. He was trying to make sure whether his sister was too shocked, causing her brain to act up, or if she didn¡¯t care about her son¡¯s safety anymore.


    However, Jacob found nothing after a few more seconds; his sister still appeared calm.


    "Emma, this video call is still on. My people are still waiting for you to decide," Jacob said. "I will ask my people to torture your son if you don¡¯t speak now," he could no longer wait.


    Jacob began to feel uneasy and suspicious when he saw how calm Emma was now, and the chance of her also stalling was getting more improbable.


    "Brother Jacob, why are you in such a rush? Fine, I¡¯ll tell you..." Emma stopped her words when she saw all her brothers¡¯ eyes beamed staring at her. Well, at least she had their attention.


    Jacob¡¯s heart raced; he was too happy to hear Emma finally willing to open her mouth. His method finally succeeded.


    After turning off the video call, he ordered, "Little sister, you can speak now!"


    "Relax, brother Jacob," Emma said as she took her cell phone, trying to maintain her casual expression. She didn¡¯t want to show her happiness when she saw the call still connected to Bella¡¯s phone. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Emma saw a text message notification, she opened it, but Jacob interrupted her before she could read it.


    "What the hell are you doing, Emma?! Are you trying to ask for help?" Jacob angrily asked. "It¡¯s useless, alright!"


    Emma pretended to be surprised to hear Jacob¡¯s words. She looked at him with her innocent, confused expression.


    "Didn¡¯t you ask about Bella¡¯s location?"


    "Yes!"


    "Why did you stop me?" Emma¡¯s voice sounded displeased. She tried to unlock her cell phone while continuing her sentence.


    "I need to call Bella and ask her for her address. I don¡¯t know where she is right now. So far, I have only talked to her via text message. But because you stopped me, I won¡¯t be able to do that!"


    Jacob and the others gasped.


    "And you guys would be wrong if you thought I went to the capital to meet Bella or Natalie," Emma said. "They¡¯re not foolish to meet me when they know you might send people to follow me, right?"


    Emma didn¡¯t hesitate to reveal what they were up to. She still remembers that when she left East City last week, Jacob could have followed her if it hadn¡¯t been for Bella¡¯s arrangement to help her.


    Immediately, the expressions of all her brothers turned sour upon hearing her words.


    However, they couldn¡¯t argue because what Emma said was true. They tried to follow her but failed. Either their people were really stupid, or Emma knew she was being followed and was able to escape.


    However,


    Lucas Donovan suddenly burst into laughter. Three pairs of eyes were now looking at him, frowning.


    "Go on, Sister Emma," Lucas¡¯s voice, previously sulky when talking to Emma, ??suddenly became friendly and gentle. "Go on, contact my daughter. And, please, don¡¯t forget to tell me her new phone number after that."


    Emma almost laughed to hear Lucas¡¯s words; she narrowed her eyes at him.


    "Oh, dear Lucas, Bella never changed her phone number. Her number is still the same. She only installed a spam filter. Maybe your number is in the SPAM category!"


    Emma¡¯s words deeply wounded Lucas like a sharp dagger pierced his heart. He tried to respond but was unable to utter a single word. He was sitting there, shoulders slumped in annoyance, not knowing how to express his anger.


    After successfully annoying Lucas, Emma smiled and turned to Jacob. "So, should I stop or contact Bella?" she asked curtly.


    "Definitely contact her immediately," Jacob replied. However, before Emma could do so, Jacob stopped her. Again!


    "Emma, don¡¯t tell Bella that we asked for her address. Just say you wanted to send her something," Jacob instructed firmly.


    "Of course, I won¡¯t. How could Bella tell me her address if I said you asked for it?" Emma replied.


    Jacob said nothing. He let Emma do as they asked. Then he turned to look at his brothers with a victorious smile, and they exchanged glances happily. Their plan was a success: luring Bella through Emma.


    Emma checked her phone and was surprised that the connection had ended.


    However, she found a text message from Bella:


    "I sent someone to Liam¡¯s apartment." A wave of relief washed over her when she read Bella¡¯s text.


    Adding to her surprise, she realized Bella had sent the message fifteen minutes ago.


    ¡¯Liam, my son. Please hang in there! You will be fine!¡¯


    Emma quickly typed a reply message to Bella.


    [Emma] Thank you so much. Please get in touch with me if you find him.

 Chapter 379: Rescue Mission

    In the Capital City


    Bryan parked his car in front of the apartment. Before Bella could get out of the vehicle, Bryan stopped her.


    "Ma¡¯am, please wait for me. Don¡¯t go upstairs by yourself!" Bryan warned when he saw the impatient look in her eyes. He couldn¡¯t let her go by herself, or he would get in trouble if his boss found out about their plans change.


    "Hurry up!" Bella responded as she stepped out of the car.


    Bella walked toward the main entrance and sent Stefan a series of texts. She needed him to do something to make her father and uncles leave her aunt¡¯s house.


    After sending her last instruction to Stefan, she saw Bryan¡¯s broad and fast stride approaching her. She didn¡¯t wait for him. Instead, she continued to walk inside the building, only stopping when approached by security before reaching the elevator area.


    Bryan tried to confront the security guard. However, before he could act, Bella stopped him with her gaze.


    He could only clench his teeth and looked sharply at the man before him as if wanting to convey his displeasure.


    The security could feel the tension from the imposing man before him. Although worried that this man might become violent, he didn¡¯t have a choice. It was his duty to check unfamiliar people entering this unit.


    "I¡¯m sorry, sir or ma¡¯am, but you can¡¯t enter this area if you are not the tenant¡ª" The security guard¡¯s voice slowly faded when he saw the woman raise her keycard and realized she was no threat. "Ah, I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am. You may continue," he politely said and left.


    Bella was grateful that earlier this morning before Aunty Emma left the hospital to return to the East City, she had given her Liam¡¯s apartment card key. Aunty Emma asked her to provide the card key to Noora so that Noora could help Liam with general cleaning every two weeks.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if it was a coincidence that she had to visit her office today for a meeting with Harper and the others.


    After dropping her mother off at the stone house, Bella didn¡¯t stay home for long. She just took care of her husband and son before leaving.


    Shortly after leaving her house, she got an alert from the Sentinel Network¡¯s spotter, who was guarding her aunty¡¯s house, reporting the situation there.


    Bella felt alarmed and tried to figure out how to help her aunt. After successfully contacting her aunt, she was shocked to learn that her evil uncle had taken Liam as a hostage.


    Knowing how her evil uncle¡¯s mind worked, she immediately instructed Bryan to head to Liam¡¯s place. She felt relieved that Liam¡¯s apartment was only ten minutes from her car¡¯s location.


    As they headed to the tenth floor, her prayers never stopped. She wished that those people had not harmed Liam. Otherwise, she would not show them any mercy.


    It didn¡¯t take long. They were finally on the tenth floor, before Liam¡¯s apartment door.


    Bella knew Liam¡¯s door password but didn¡¯t rush to open it. She was worried that the sound of the door opening would alert her father¡¯s henchmen inside.


    She leaned closer to the door, trying to hear what was happening inside. A few seconds later, a half-smile slowly appeared on her lips when she could clearly listen to an announcer reading the news.


    This is her chance. If she opens the door, the person inside will not hear because they turn on the television and set its sound so loud.


    Before Bella opened the door, she glanced at Bryan, who stood beside her in alert.


    "Are you ready?"


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. But are you sure you don¡¯t want to wait for our backup?" Bryan asked. Even though there were probably only two or four people inside, he was worried that they had brought guns.


    Bryan wouldn¡¯t worry if he was alone, but now his young madam is with him. He can¡¯t act rashly, can he?


    "No need. We can handle them," Bella confidently replied, piquing Bryan¡¯s curiosity even more. He had only heard rumors about his young madam¡¯s fighting skills, but now he wanted to witness it himself.


    However, reality hit him again; he couldn¡¯t take this situation lightly. His young madam¡¯s safety was his top priority.


    "Alright, ma¡¯am. You stay outside; I will take care of everyone inside," Bryan said. This was the safest way to rescue her cousin without endangering her life.


    Bella was left speechless.


    "Wait for me over there, mam." Bryan pointed a few meters away from the door. "Ah, do you know what his password is, mam? I mean PIN."


    "Bryan, I appreciate your concern for my safety, but you need to stop now," Bella said with a smile. It was amusing to see Bryan trying to protect her.


    She continued, "Well, I can take care of myself. There¡¯s no need to worry about me."


    "But, ma¡¯am, let me take the lead. You stay behind me," Bryan insisted. "You can¡¯t reject me, mam. Or your husband will kill me if he knows..."


    "Deal," Bella hurriedly responded. What Bryan said was true; Tristan might punish him.


    Even so, inwardly, Bella felt the urge to vent her frustration at her uncle Jacob for what he did to his own family by torturing the gangster inside.


    As expected, when Bryan slowly opened the door, no one noticed them. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella followed Bryan into the apartment and stopped in a hiding place to check the situation. She saw four tall, robust men in the room, seemingly enjoying the news while munching on apples and drinking soda. They all looked so relaxed like they were in the picnic area.


    Her heart races when she finally spots Liam, still tied in the chair, with a deadpan expression. It worries her.


    "Ma¡¯am, you wait here, let me kick their asses."


    Bella couldn¡¯t refuse Bryan this time. She could only say, "Go do it faster!" even though, in her heart, she felt reluctant to let Bryan fight alone because she also wanted to test her ability and vent her anger.


    Bryan no longer stood beside her but moved quickly, shocking the four men in the living room. Before they could do anything, Bryan had already subdued them with his powerful punches and kicks, sending them into a miserable state, kissing the floor with their bones cracking here and there.


    She blinked a few times, noticing how fast Bryan moved. Everyone was lying on the floor in just three minutes, barely moving.


    However, before Bella could approach Bryan, she felt cold metal pressed against her head.


    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but curse, realizing they missed another gangster in the house.

 Chapter 380: Bryan Was Shocked

    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but curse, realizing they had missed one more gangster in the house.


    "Hey! Kungfu Boy..." A deep, hoarse voice echoed in the room, startling Bryan, who was about to continue torturing the gangsters on the floor. "Stop moving, or I¡¯ll send her straight into her coffin!" he threatened.


    Instantly, Bryan¡¯s expression hardened when he saw a tall man clad in a bomber jacket with a tattoo on his neck pointing a gun at Bella¡¯s head. His expression looked calm, but his eyes were full of hate.


    Bryan didn¡¯t obey his warning; he kept moving to help Bella, but the man shouted again.


    "What the fuck! Man, if you move one step, I¡¯ll really pull the trigger, and her brain will splat on the wall!" He pressed the gun to Bella¡¯s head harder, causing her head to move forward.


    Bryan halted, not wanting to endanger his boss¡¯s wife¡¯s life. He could only grit his teeth and look her in the eyes.


    Surprise slowly flashed through his eyes as he observed how calm Bella was. He had expected her to be frightened or nervous, but she was not. Not at all.


    "Don¡¯t move! I will take care of him!" Bella said without making a sound.


    Bryan could read Bella¡¯s lip movements. Even though he was worried about the idea, he gave a slight nod after her orders.


    "Raise your hands, lady!" the man snapped.


    Bella slowly raised her hands to the level of her ears while glancing at Liam. She was dumbfounded by how frightened his expression was. His face had turned almost as white as paper.


    ¡¯Geez, this kid needs martial arts training to make him less easily frightened,¡¯ Bella made a mental note to ask Geoffrey to teach him too.


    "What are you doing? One more step, I won¡¯t warn you, but shoot her!" shouted the gangster.


    Bella became alert and looked at Bryan. She was stunned to see he was already taking several steps forward, almost reaching her.


    Not wanting to waste any more time, worried that the man behind her would really pull the trigger and blow her head off, Bella decided to make a move now.


    With one quick movement, she turned while her hands cunningly stole the gun from the man¡¯s hand. The man was shocked to see her smooth and fast move and even more shocked when he saw he no longer held his weapon.


    Staring at the woman in horror, he cursed, "Fuck! How did you do that!?"


    Before the man had time to steal back his gun, Bella delivered a powerful kick to the man¡¯s groin and balls; in a mere second, a howl of pain echoed in the room.


    The man¡¯s eyes blurred with tears as he clutched his groin; he didn¡¯t know whether his assets were still okay or if he would no longer be able to make love in the future.


    The nameless pain between his legs was unbearable; he felt like someone had just set a fire there.


    He stared at the woman in horror while holding the pain he felt now.


    "Bitch¡ª" The man¡¯s words stopped as Bella delivered another powerful kick to his chest, sending him flying several meters back, hitting the wall hard.


    "CRACK!"


    A loud sound of breaking bones could be heard, followed by the "THUD" sound when the man¡¯s large body fell to the floor. He curled up, crying in pain, trying to distract his mind from this nameless agony.


    His howls were still loud and long, but the sound slowly disappeared when he saw the long-haired woman who destroyed his assets step towards him while removing the parts from the gun one by one so fast and throwing them on the floor.


    He closed his eyes when the woman was only two steps away from him, hoping that this woman would not kick his groin again or his little brother would be unusable. But, a few seconds later, he heard her step past him.


    The man opened his eyes only to see the woman walk toward the other room. He felt relieved while cursing himself for taking this assignment.


    ***


    While Bella checked the other room, Bryan, who witnessed what happened, was shocked beyond words.


    He was frozen in place, witnessing how fast, powerful, and beautiful his young madam¡¯s movement was.


    She only needed less than one minute to take care of the gangster. The gangster was almost double her height and size, but still, that man was in a miserable condition on the floor.


    What shocked Bryan even more, was that Bella¡¯s expression remained calm after that; she now checked the other room to ensure no other gangsters were left.


    "Bryan, stop looking at me like that!" Bella felt amused looking at Bryan¡¯s expression. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She ignored him and walked toward Liam. Before she helped her poor cousin, she said, "Call your people to clean up the mess here, and don¡¯t tell my husband."


    Bryan snapped out of his trance. "Yes, Ma¡¯am..." His voice stuttered, and he swiftly took his cell phone and made a call.


    Seeing Liam¡¯s body shake, Bella smiled to reassure him that everything was alright now.


    "Don¡¯t worry. You are safe; everything is fine," she said while removing the tape from his mouth.


    Instantly, Liam¡¯s crying sound echoed in the room.


    "S-Sister Bella, thank you..." he said amidst his tears. "Thank you for saving my life."


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything in response to his thanks but continued to untie the rope after making sure there were no wounds on his body.


    Later, she took out her cell phone and checked Stefan¡¯s progress to lure her father and uncles away from Aunt Emma¡¯s house.


    She was suprised to see two text messages from him:


    [Stefan] They all left.


    [Stefan] Your Aunty is safe now. No worries.


    A relieved smile slowly emerged on her lips as she typed quickly to ask what exactly he had done to lure her father and uncles away from there.


    She was curious. It had only been ten minutes, but he had already succeeded in luring them all.


    Waiting for Stefan to reply to her text, she turned her gaze to Liam again, "Can you walk?" she asked.


    Liam nodded.

 Chapter 381: She Need Permission

    Liam tried to stand up but felt his knees weaken before he stood firm. He held the chair to stand up straight while smiling awkwardly at Bella.


    "Maybe I¡¯m sitting too long¡ª" He said even though Bella didn¡¯t ask him anything.


    "Alright, let me help you." Bella offered a hand. She led him to his room.


    "Thank you, sis."


    "No problem. Liam, change your clothes and pack your important stuff. Today, you will stay at my house. This place is not safe for you."


    Liam was surprised to hear that but didn¡¯t reject Bella¡¯s offer. He agreed with Bella that this place wasn¡¯t safe anymore; he couldn¡¯t stay here after what happened today; a few men entered his house while he was sleeping.


    "And call your mom, Liam. She is worried about you..." Bella continued when she saw him in a trance again. She became worried again that Liam might be traumatized.


    "My mom... What happens to her? And sis, why did my uncle and your father send those people to capture me?" Liam asked, confused by this situation.


    "Your mom is alright. I will explain the other things later. It¡¯s not safe to talk here."


    "Hmm, ok. Thank you, sis." Liam smiled as he closed the door.


    At the same time, Bella¡¯s cell phone vibrated. She immediately walked to a corner, stood by the window, and picked up Stefan¡¯s call.


    "Hi, sister. Is everything ok there?" Stefan asked. His panicked tone didn¡¯t hide his worry.


    Bella felt sorry for telling him what happened to Liam and making him worry like now. "Yes. Everything is under control."


    "That¡¯s good to hear, Sis."


    "Stefan, what did you do to make my father and uncles leave my aunt¡¯s house so fast?"


    Instead of answering, she hears Stefan laugh. She frowned.


    "Well, I just sent them all an invitation."


    "What invitation did you send?" Bella asked. She began to suspect that Stefan was doing something peculiar.


    "A Shareholders¡¯ Meeting with an agenda¡ª" Stefan stopped momentarily, trying to hear Bella¡¯s reaction. However, after a few seconds, she did not respond.


    He continued, "Replacement of the CEO and executive staff of the Donovan Group."


    Bella was surprised to hear that, but a moment later, she chuckled. No wonder her uncle left her Aunty Emma¡¯s house because he knew his position was on the line.


    She was excited to imagine that her uncle Jacob would soon lose his position, money, and everything he had.


    "So when will the event be held?" Bella asked again, happy with the progress Stefan arranged for the Donovan Group.


    "Tomorrow!"


    Bella was utterly shocked. She didn¡¯t expect Stefan to arrange such an important meeting tomorrow.


    She planned to do that not tomorrow but next week. She had not yet prepared anything, especially for handling her father; she needed to meet her lawyer first.


    "Are you kidding, right?" She asked.


    "Ugh, Sis, sorry if I didn¡¯t discuss it with you first, but that¡¯s the only thing that can scare your father and uncles. So¡ª"


    Bella could understand Stefan¡¯s intention, but the problem was that she wasn¡¯t prepared at all.


    She must prepare many documents, especially the divorce papers, to give to her father. She will force him by any means necessary to sign the papers when they meet because her mother needs them. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Calm down, sis. I¡¯ve prepared everything. You only need to appear at the meeting and crush them all." Stefan explained.


    "Are you sure?" A frown slowly appeared on her forehead.


    "Yes. Sam will fly there today to prepare everything. So, tomorrow morning, you will fly with Leo and Harper. Ah, our legal team will also support you."


    Bella smiled upon hearing that.


    "Well, sis, you don¡¯t need to worry; I¡¯ve discussed everything with Harper and Leo. Well, actually, they were the ones who suggested all this."


    "Ok... Ok, I understand," Bella said. If Leo and Harper step in, she¡¯s cool with it. She could rely on them both. Now, she must talk to her husband to get permission to fly to East City tomorrow.


    Bella was worried that Tristan would leave his office work again and follow her to East City even though he had already been on vacation for a week.


    After Bella talked to Stefan, she glanced at Bryan, who walked toward her with a card in his hand.


    "What is that?" She asked when Bryan showed her the card.


    "Keycard. And apartment keycard. They could access this building with this."


    Bella was shocked.


    "I see. Are they tenants in this building, too?"


    "Yes, ma¡¯am."


    "What the hell!!?? So they have been staying here all along to spy on Liam?"


    "That¡¯s what I heard from their leader when he begged me to spare his life. Your uncle paid them handsomely to spy on Liam for the last two weeks."


    Now Bella understands. Why did her uncle know that Aunty Emma had met her? They are already suspicious that she is staying at the hospital. But, because Tristan¡¯s people heavily guard the hospital, they may be unable to enter to confirm it.


    Bella could only smile bitterly for her neglect. She completely forgot about Liam and allowed her uncle to discover her whereabouts.


    She sighed deeply before she asked Bryan about the backup they needed to clean up this place.


    "They arrived and are heading here now." Bryan paused, reluctant to continue his words, worried his madam would scold him.


    "What is it?" Bella asked. She could see the stress in Bryan¡¯s gaze.


    "Ma¡¯am, you should leave this place now. Someone will pick you up and drive you to your office. I will stay here to make sure everything is under control."


    Bella glanced at Liam¡¯s bedroom before returning her gaze to Bryan. "Please bring my cousin to my house. Let him stay at my mother¡¯s stone house."


    "Sure, ma¡¯am."


    After Bella briefly talked to Liam, she immediately left Liam¡¯s apartment.


    She was surprised to see one of Tristan¡¯s people, whom she was familiar with, waiting in the elevator and escorting her to the main entrance.


    However, before she could step out, she spotted a familiar car. She was speechless as she glanced at the man beside her.


    "Who told him?"

 Chapter 382: Is He Angry?

    "Who told him?" Bella asked.


    The man looked confused before he answered, "Bryan!"


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but curse Bryan in her heart while walking quickly toward the car.


    Before she reached the car, the window rolled down, and she saw Tristan looking at her with a smile gracing his lips.


    "Wife, I think we should hurry..." he said calmly and gently, but Bella could see the worry in his eyes.


    She sat in the passenger seat, buckling her seatbelt before returning her attention to him.


    "Hubby, would you mind explaining why you came here?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her question but focused on the street ahead. He glanced at her after their car left the apartment area and hit the road.


    "Where do you want to go, hon? Home or office?" He asked, evidently hoping he could avoid answering Bella¡¯s question.


    "Office¡ª" Bella answered. She felt worried now because she could see Tristan¡¯s mixed emotions flashing through his eyes.


    Knowing Tristan was mad but couldn¡¯t express it, she let him calm down first; she knew he was angry because he worried about her safety.


    Silence hung in the air for a few more minutes.


    Before long, Bella finally broke the silence, "Tristan, you can¡¯t be angry with me. Please don¡¯t assume that this is my fault. Rescuing Liam was a must."


    Tristan nodded but said nothing.


    "And I¡¯m not hurt. Not a single scratch. So you don¡¯t have to worry. Bryan perfectly did his job of protecting me," Bella reassured him. "So... my darling Husband...


    if you consider punishing him, I¡¯m sorry, but I strongly disagree."


    Tristan quickly glanced at her as their car stopped at the traffic light.


    "I¡¯m not angry with you, but with your family. I have offered to handle them, but you always refuse. You have to remember that they are evil, my love. You can¡¯t be soft with them; most importantly, you can¡¯t waste time. Deal with them faster before they come up with new schemes to harm you, Dax, or your mother."


    Bella silently took a deep sigh. She could not refute his words because what he said was true; she understood his worries.


    She knew she didn¡¯t put much pressure on her uncle and father, causing them to act even more evil.


    However, today, after learning about her uncle¡¯s use of force to capture Liam, she regretted not having resolved her family problems sooner. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you, Tristan, for your reminder," she smiled at him. "I know I¡¯m so wrong right now. Maybe because lately my mind has focused on my mother¡¯s health, I have slightly forgotten my scheming family."


    Tristan chuckled at hearing how she addressed her family as a ¡¯Scheming Family.¡¯


    "It¡¯s fine as long as you know this is important and must be dealt with immediately. To stop them altogether or any one of them from trying to harm you."


    "Hmm, that¡¯s why I must fly there to do my next plan..." Her eyes beamed as her plan for tomorrow started dancing in her mind.


    Bella was thrilled; she couldn¡¯t wait to meet her Uncle Jacob and father. She will kick them out of the company.


    "That sounds good, dear. When are you flying?" Tristan asked, hitting the gas pedal again.


    "Tomorrow¡ª"


    "What? Tomorrow?" Tristan was surprised to hear that. "Why that fast?"


    Bella was speechless. Didn¡¯t he earlier encourage her to deal more quickly with her family? Why does he look so shocked now?


    "Yes, tomorrow. Why do you look shocked?" Bella chuckled when she saw him frown while his hand gripped the steering wheel tightly.


    "Hubby, you are the one who asked me to deal with them faster; why do you seem reluctant to let me go there?" Bella playfully asked.


    "I just didn¡¯t prepare myself; you will fly there tomorrow."


    Bella slowly raised her hand and played with his hair. She explained her plan to hold a shareholder meeting and to replace her uncle and all his people from the company.


    Not long after, they finally arrived at Bella¡¯s office. Tristan didn¡¯t return to their house but stopped by his office. He also needed to take care of something.


    ***


    When Bella arrived at the nineteenth floor, she saw Leo standing in the elevator waiting for her. He didn¡¯t let her out of the elevator but joined her to go straight to the 20th floor.


    "I thought we would meet in my office. Why did you lead me to your house?" Bella glanced at him suspiciously.


    Leo didn¡¯t bother to explain as the elevator door finally opened.


    Bella was surprised to see Harper and Stefan standing there, looking concerned and worried. She could only smile at them as she stepped out of the elevator.


    "Oh girl, I¡¯m sorry about your aunt and cousin. Everything alright now, right?" Harper took Bella¡¯s hand and led her to the living room.


    "Yeah, everything is alright. My cousin is fine, and my aunty, too. Well, thanks to you, Stefan..." Bella said while gently tapping his shoulder.


    If not for Stefan¡¯s quick act to lure her uncle out of her aunty¡¯s house, maybe her uncle would still be there bothering her aunty or even harming her.


    Stefan laughed, scratching his head, "I do my best to help you, sis. Oh, right, how about the person your uncle sent to detain your cousin?"


    "Tristan will handle them. We don¡¯t have to be involved," Bella said. She finally allowed Tristan to help her because she would only focus on taking over the Donovan Group.


    "Good to know that. Hope your Hubby will teach them all."


    Bella sat on the single sofa, looking at each of them in turn. She felt guilty because her family affairs involved them all, even though this had nothing to do with their company.


    "Guys, I thank you for your help with my personal matters. You have my utmost gratitude. I will repay you all in the future..." Bella promised.


    "Geez, Bella...you¡¯re not among strangers here. And your family is our family, too. No need to feel like you owe us or trouble us." Harper casually responded while smiling at her.


    "Yeah, Bella. I¡¯m also glad to help you. No string attached." Leo chimed in.


    "I¡¯m your little brother," Stefan said. "Of course, I should help you. I would be ashamed if I didn¡¯t."


    Their comforting words were enough to warm Bella¡¯s heart. She said nothing but smiled gratefully at them before they started to discuss their plan for tomorrow.

 Chapter 383: Carrying Family Burdens

    After dinner, Bella goes to her mother¡¯s house.


    She needed to meet Liam and inform her mother about her plan to fly to East City the following day.


    As Bella is about to enter the stone house, she is surprised to hear her grandfather calling her from behind. She stops and turns to see him, noting his stiff expression. Despite the limited light, Bella can see his unhappy and upset gaze.


    Her heart races, and she can guess why her grandfather looks annoyed now¡ªhe has already heard about what happened to Aunty Emma and Liam.


    Silently gulping, Bella waited for him near the door.


    "Hello, my dearest Grandpa. What brings you here? Do you want to see my mom?" Bella¡¯s smile widened as she greeted him politely, trying to lessen his anger.


    But after a second, her Grandpa¡¯s expression remained the same.


    "Grandpa, did you know? It¡¯s cold, and the night wind is bad for your health. Let¡¯s go inside and talk..." She urges him to follow her.


    However, Isaac Donovan didn¡¯t follow Bella. Instead, he stood in his place with a frosty expression, staring at her, showing an old man¡¯s unhappy feelings.


    She could only halt her step and smile awkwardly at him while glancing at Nick, trying to find any clue, but as usual, Nick couldn¡¯t offer anything but a smile at her.


    "Why did you ask your cousin to stay here instead of at my house?"


    Bella chuckled inwardly. Her guess was right. Her grandfather was upset because of that matter.


    Well, she has a reason for not telling him about the incident. She worries that her Grandpa will fly back to East City, scold all his sons, and ruin her plan for tomorrow¡¯s shareholder annual meeting.


    Her smile slowly faded as she explained earnestly, "Grandpa, I¡¯m sorry if you are angry because of that. But it would be best if you didn¡¯t bother with it. I want to settle the company matter first before telling you."


    Isaac shook his head, confusing Bella.


    "Oh dear Bella, I know about that. I am only concerned about Liam. You can¡¯t ask Liam to stay here. Did you forget that your mother¡¯s house is too small to keep one more person!?" he asked.


    When he saw her eyes waver, he knew this girl must have forgotten. He couldn¡¯t help but smirk.


    Bella was stunned. She didn¡¯t think about that when she asked Bryan to bring Liam to this house. And her Grandpa was indeed correct; there were only two bedrooms here, and her mother and Aunty Noora already occupied those rooms.


    ¡¯Sigh! How could I forget about it?¡¯ Bella can¡¯t help but scold herself while grinning at her Grandpa.


    Before Bella could say anything, Isaac walked.


    "Let¡¯s get inside and talk," he said, gently patting Bella¡¯s shoulder before he entered the house.


    Bella hesitated to enter the house immediately, taking a deep breath as she glared at Nick, standing a few steps away from her.


    "Why did you tell him? I was planning to inform him tomorrow¡­" She was sure that Nick had told her grandfather about Liam. Who else could it have been?


    Nick smiled at Bella, politely responding, "Miss, don¡¯t blame me. I¡¯m not the one who informed the old master about Liam."


    Bella doubted Nick¡¯s claim. Her grandfather rarely visited this area, so it seemed unlikely that he would have encountered Liam.


    "If it wasn¡¯t you, then who was it?"


    "Miss, it was Dax¡ª"


    Bella¡¯s realization stopped Nick mid-sentence. She had completely forgotten about her son. Of course, he would tell his great-grandfather about Liam.


    *** S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Bella entered the living room, she saw everyone already settled there.


    She was relieved that Liam was no longer as stressed and frightened as when she rescued him.


    Her mother also looked healthier than before, which warmed her heart. She felt at ease leaving her mother the following day.


    Bella halted when she heard her Grandpa asking Liam to stay at his house.


    "You can¡¯t stay here, Liam. I have plenty of empty rooms in my house; you can follow Grandpa and stay there from now on..." Isaac said firmly.


    However, Liam hasn¡¯t answered yet. Instead, he looked at Bella as if to ask her opinion.


    At the same time, Isaac Donovan also looked at Bella with the same expression he had before he entered this house.


    Bella silently swallowed, knowing her Grandpa was right. "Liam, what Grandpa said is right. You should stay at his house. There is no room you can use in this house."


    She settled beside her mother and continued, "I¡¯m sorry, Liam. I asked Bryan to bring you here instead because I forgot this house only has two bedrooms." She said softly.


    Liam nodded at Bella, "Hmm, thank you, sis."


    Natalie smiled bitterly at Bella¡¯s words, apologizing for something she didn¡¯t need to do.


    She turned to see her daughter, stroking her back as if to give her whatever strength she had to keep her strong and cheer up.


    Since moving into this place, Natalie had witnessed Bella carrying so many family matters on her shoulders. This caused Natalie to feel worried and sad for her only daughter. Not only does her daughter deal with her family matters, but she also has to deal with Tristan¡¯s family.


    Just imagining what her daughter endured broke Natalie¡¯s heart, especially when she couldn¡¯t do much to help her.


    Natalie could only try her best to help lessen her daughter¡¯s problems by hiding in this place. She didn¡¯t even want to go out; she was worried that Lucas would find her and add to the source of Bella¡¯s headaches.


    But Natalie was furious this afternoon when Emma called her and told her everything that had happened in East City.


    She wanted to fly back there, meet Lucas, and end her life in front of him so he wouldn¡¯t have to ruin Bella¡¯s life again. She knew her stupid and evil husband would never stop until he achieved what he wanted.


    Squeezing Bella¡¯s hand tightly, with teary eyes, Natalie looked at her beautiful daughter, confusing Bella when she saw her mother suddenly looking gloomy.

 Chapter 384: Revealing Her Plan

    "Bella, my daughter," Natalie¡¯s voice trembled. After briefly pausing, she continued, "I¡¯m sorry to have you carry all our family matters on your shoulders. You work hard to settle your father and uncle¡¯s mess." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was stunned to see her mother¡¯s tears rolling down her cheeks.


    "My daughter, don¡¯t tire yourself with their mess. Don¡¯t carry this burden by yourself. If you need my help, please tell me. I promise you I will try to help. Even my help might be useless, but I will do anything for you..."


    Natalie¡¯s words shocked Isaac Donovan. Instantly, feelings of guilt filled his heart. He was not as sensitive as Natalie, who could understand Bella¡¯s feelings.


    How could he allow her to take care of his family¡¯s mess alone and without his help?


    Isaac clenched his hands into tight fists, remembering the terrible things his sons had done to Bella and her mother.


    He felt useless because he was not strong enough to stop them, and his sons continued to try to hurt Bella and her mother.


    His shoulders slowly slumped, his hands clenched tightly into fists, feeling even more guilty for scolding her earlier.


    "Bella, I need to ask for your forgiveness," Isaac¡¯s voice was similar to Natalie¡¯s, shaking as if holding back the mixed emotions raging in his heart. "Because of my useless sons, you and your mother have to suffer so much¡ª"


    As soon as Bella heard the direction of her grandfather and mother¡¯s conversation, she was at a loss for words. The atmosphere in the room suddenly turned gloomy.


    "Grandpa, Mother, please, let¡¯s not talk about it now," Bella interrupted them from talking about the sad things. She didn¡¯t want to cry now, especially since Liam was with them.


    Natalie and Isaac said nothing, but their gaze still carried the same feelings: sadness and blaming themselves for Bella¡¯s troubles and sorrow.


    "Why do you both even say things like that? I¡¯m fine. Really, I¡¯m fine. This matter will be over soon. This time, I won¡¯t show them any mercy!"


    She smiles, but a fierce determination to crush someone flashes through her eyes, surprising Isaac and Natalie.


    For a few seconds, the room became silent.


    All eyes were on Bella, waiting for her to share more details about her plan.


    "So, Mom and Grandpa, no need to worry about my father and uncles in the East City. Tomorrow, I¡¯m going to fly there¡ª"


    "You what?" Natalie was shocked. She grabbed Bella¡¯s hands, causing her to stop speaking. "Bella, please don¡¯t go there. They will harm you. Your father..." Her voice trembled, and she was scared to imagine Bella meeting her father.


    Bella felt a mix of amusement and happiness when she saw her mother looking so worried about her. She was happy because it showed how much her mother cared for her, and she was amused when she saw her mother panicking, knowing she would meet her father.


    "Mom, it¡¯s fine. My father won¡¯t harm me. I mean, even if he wanted to, he wouldn¡¯t have a chance to do that, trust me. Besides, did you forget who my husband is?" Bella said.


    Natalie¡¯s grip slowly loosened as she remembered Tristan. Indeed, no one could harm her daughter if they knew she was Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife. Slowly, her worry faded, and she smiled back at Bella.


    "Mom, you know why I need to meet him sooner, right? I need to give him your divorce papers," Bella said with a smile as she noticed her mother¡¯s eyes widening. "My father needs a wake-up call to stop looking for you..."


    Natalie was even more shocked to hear this. She had already thought so many times about how to file divorce papers for Lucas Donovan, but she didn¡¯t know where to start. She was also worried about asking Bella because she has been so busy lately.


    Bella smiled when she saw her mother looking confused and worried.


    "Mom, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve already prepared everything: the lawyer and the paperwork. You only need to sign it; you don¡¯t need to meet my father!"


    Natalie felt her hand turn cold at the thought. She didn¡¯t believe that Lucas would quickly agree to sign the papers. She was afraid that he might refuse to let her go. She knows him so well.


    Leaning closer to her daughter, Natalie whispered, "Bella, I am worried about your father. I don¡¯t think he¡¯ll readily agree to divorce me. I know how his mind works." Her voice sounded shaky.


    Bella suppressed a smile upon hearing her mother¡¯s concern. She squeezed her mother¡¯s hand before replying in a hushed tone.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Mom. Trust me, I have a plan. I plan to make Dad sign the divorce papers right away! If he chooses a legal battle, he¡¯ll definitely lose and end up in jail, trust me."


    Natalie was stunned. She pulled her head away from her daughter to see her expression. When she realized how serious Bella was, her heart swelled with warmth.


    "Thank you..." Natalie said silently.


    Bella could read her lips. She responded to her mother with a faint smile.


    ...


    Even though Bella and Natalie spoke hushedly, Isaac Donovan could faintly hear what they discussed. He was also concerned about his granddaughter¡¯s confrontation with Lucas.


    "Bella, are you sure you can handle your father?" Isaac asks, wanting to ensure Bella won¡¯t get hurt.


    She turned towards her Grandfather and nodded, "Yes, Grandfather. I have my own way to get him to sign the divorce papers."


    Isaac didn¡¯t ask further about it. He only reminded her, "Make sure you bring someone with you when dealing with your father. He is temperamental."


    "I know," Bella replied. She wasn¡¯t afraid of her father; she could subdue him with a single move with any difficulties.


    For safety, Bryan and Sam will be with her; at least, that¡¯s what Tristan asked for. He allowed her to fly to the East as long as Sam and Bryan protected her, and she gladly agreed.


    They continued talking.


    This time, Bella told her Grandpa about her plan to hold the Shareholder Meeting with the agenda of removing Jacob Donovan as CEO and her father from the COO position and replacing them with her most trusted people.

 Chapter 385: The Largest Shareholder

    After a few minutes, Natalie still showed concern in her eyes, worrying that her daughter would fly there alone to face her evil father and uncles. She didn¡¯t want her daughter to be in trouble.


    Isaac finally could smile again. He did like her plan to take over Donovan Group from his useless sons.


    "Bella, I will fly with you," Isaac said. "I will help you teach all of my useless sons. They are messing with your life, so they deserve heavy punishment."


    Bella, "..."


    "Grandpa, I can handle them alone. You don¡¯t have to tire yourself flying back to the East City. Just stay here and wait for the good news."


    Isaac Donovan chuckled as he shook his head and refused her.


    "Oh, my dear, did you forget I¡¯m also a shareholder in the company? Even though my share is small, I have a right to attend the shareholder meeting, right?"


    Bella, "..."


    "But, Grandpa, I can¡ª" Bella had not yet completed her words; Isaac interrupted her.


    "Nick, why haven¡¯t I received any notification about the meeting?" Isaac Donovan glanced at Nick in the corner.


    "S-Sir, there¡¯s no information about the meeting from the company. Should I call Archy to ask about it?" Nick responded.


    Isaac Donovan didn¡¯t answer to Nick but turned his gaze at Bella. "My dear Bella, can you explain why this old man didn¡¯t receive the notification?"


    Bella saw Grandpa seriously asking for an explanation. She could only sigh deeply.


    She couldn¡¯t explain that she had asked Stefan not to send any info for her grandfather.


    ***


    Next Day at the Donovan Group.


    Jacob Donovan¡¯s expression appeared dark, and his anger became more evident as he saw the man sitting before him. If this man were not his father¡¯s best friend¡¯s son, he would have fired him long ago.


    Only his sister Emma has the audacity not to follow his commands, and he finds that very frustrating when this man also never agrees to his plan.


    "Archy! Who asked you to arrange the annual shareholder meeting without my consent or even consulting me?" Jacob roared, no longer caring if a few shareholders were already in the room.


    Since yesterday, he has been trying to contact Archy. Archy, avoiding unnecessary confrontation, deliberately turned off his cell phone and has been unable to reach him until now.


    This frustrates him because he cannot avoid the official shareholder meeting. He might be replaced or kicked out of the company if he doesn¡¯t show up. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Archy, we know you work here because your father has a special connection to my father. But you can¡¯t do something like this," Lucas said, expressing his concern.


    Lucas heard rumors about his position being at risk for replacement, which greatly worried him. He has barely slept since last night, thinking about this matter.


    Everyone in the room, mostly Jacob¡¯s supporters, is now glaring disapprovingly at Archy.


    How dare he suddenly organize a Shareholder Meeting with an agenda to remove the current CEO? They still need Jacob Donovan¡¯s help to keep this company from going bankrupt.


    Archie placed his pen on the table and straightened his gray-dark suit. Calmly, he looked around the room at all the shareholders.


    His gaze finally landed on Jacob Donovan, who sat at the head of the table. Archy smiled at him before answering him:


    "Mr. Jacob Donovan, as the general affairs director of this company, it is my duty to conduct this meeting. If you don¡¯t have time to attend, that¡¯s fine. You are free to leave," Archy said politely, but Jacob, who heard that, felt insulted.


    Jacob gritted his teeth, his sharp eyes enough to make all the people in the room shiver, but not Archy. He calmly returned his gaze before looking at his cell phone, checking something.


    The room suddenly became silent. No one spoke when they saw Jacob¡¯s face turn red.


    After a few more minutes, Thomas Donovan finally said, "Who asked you to arrange this meeting?"


    Archy slowly raised his head to look at Thomas Donovan. "The new biggest shareholder in this company," Archy said, shocking and silencing all of them.


    "Who?"


    "We have a new shareholder? We thought it was Bradley Caville?"


    "No, didn¡¯t Jacob have the largest share?"


    "Emma? She is the one?"


    "No. Emma doesn¡¯t have much to share...."


    "It¡¯s possible if Old Donovan gives his share to Emma..."


    The news somehow shocked everyone in the room and made them discuss it hushedly almost simultaneously. The number of hushed discussions makes Archy able to clearly hear them. He said nothing but silently continued communicating with someone over his cell phone.


    Jacob was still in a trance, too shocked to realize that their company had a new shareholder. He was too focused on finding a way out so the company could survive in the last few months, and dealing with the media distracted him from this critical matter.


    He glanced at his two siblings. Jacob could see they were also shocked and curious about their company¡¯s largest shareholder.


    Countless questions and plans now danced in Jacob¡¯s mind.


    He hoped that if he combined his shares with his sister Emma, brothers, father, and Bradley Caville, they would still be the majority shareholders, so the new biggest shareholder couldn¡¯t kick them out of the company¡¯s management. Take over this family company.


    Jacob wouldn¡¯t let this company fall into someone else¡¯s hands without a Donovan behind their name. NEVER!


    The door suddenly opened before Jacob could ask Archy who the largest shareholder was.


    Everyone was surprised to see Emma with a tall man following closely behind her. They had never seen this man before, which raised their suspicions.


    "Sister Emma, you finally arrived," Thomas greeted her happily. Still, his eyes were fixed on the man sitting behind Emma in the secretary¡¯s row.


    "Emma, you hired a bodyguard?" Jacob chuckled, realizing his little sister must have been traumatized.


    "Hahaha..." Lucas laughed upon hearing Jacob¡¯s words. "Oh, sister...no need to worry. Everything will be fine if you agree with us in this meeting."


    Emma didn¡¯t mind her brother¡¯s insulting words. She didn¡¯t glance at them at all. Instead, she fixed her gaze on Archy.

 Chapter 386: The Shareholder Meeting Finally Started

    "Are we still waiting for someone?" Emma casually asked. "Can you start the meeting, Archy?"


    "Ma¡¯am, we are still waiting for a few people. We will start the meeting in five minutes. If they don¡¯t appear, we will start."


    "Alright..." Emma smiled back at Archy and took out her cell phone, ignoring all her foolish brothers.


    After a short while, the door opened once more. Instantly, the tension in the room dissipated. Jacob and the others looked delighted to see the person they had been waiting for finally arrive.


    "Bradley, you¡¯re finally here. Come, sit next to me," Jacob said, standing up from his chair and gesturing for Bradley to take the seat on his left after asking Lucas and Thomas to move.


    "Brother Jacob, Lucas, Thomas..." Bradley politely shook hands with all of them. He noticed Emma sitting before him and gave her a slight nod.


    "Will your father attend?"


    Bradley¡¯s question surprised Jacob. He also didn¡¯t know whether his father would come or not. However, he was sure his father wouldn¡¯t attend because he had never attended their shareholder meeting.


    "No, he¡¯s still in the capital," Lucas explained. He clearly knows his father won¡¯t come here again even if this company closes.


    "I feel bad for you guys," Bradley expressed his sympathy. Jacob and the others didn¡¯t utter any words, but their expressions clearly showed their hatred for their father.


    "Archy Taylor," called out Jacob Donovan loudly, surprising everyone. "You may start now. The person who called for this important shareholder meeting seems to be running late."


    Archy didn¡¯t rush to respond but glanced at his watch; there was still one minute left until the set time.


    Still, he started worrying about the person who requested this shareholder meeting. Wanting to ask Emma¡¯s opinion, he looked at her, but she shook her head slowly; she was also clueless.


    ¡¯Why isn¡¯t Bella here yet?¡¯ Emma wondered.


    She began worrying that Bella would have difficulty getting to this place or worse. Someone might have tried to stop her from coming. Still, a few seconds later, she dismissed her worries because, based on the latest information she received, Bella had landed in this city.


    "Archy, you may begin now," Jacob urged Archy to start the meeting. "The person who requested this seems to have forgotten about the agenda," he said with a smile, happy that the meeting would end before it even started.


    Archy checked his watch once more. After verifying that the time was ten, he stood up from his seat, walked to the corner, and stood on the small podium.


    He politely greeted all the Donovan siblings and four other shareholders, including Bradley Caville.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, before we start the main agenda, I would like to begin with the report about the updated percentage of company share ownership..." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The projector hanging from the ceiling turned on and flashed the company logo on the wall behind Archy.


    "As you know, our company has experienced many problems in the last few months, causing our share price to plummet to its lowest price since the company went public. Many shareholders are selling their shares, including a few people in the room, leading to significant changes in share ownership."


    Archy paused for a few more seconds to see almost everyone in the meeting room looking tense. They were all waiting to reveal the new shareholder.


    The atmosphere turned icy as Archy continued speaking with little expression.


    "Based on the latest data we received yesterday, you can see the breakdown of the company¡¯s shareholders on this slide," he said, pointing with the clicker.


    Camellia Capital: 37.5%


    Emma Donovan: 15%


    Isaac Donovan: 11%


    Bradley Caville: 10%


    Jacob Donovan: 5%


    Lucas Donovan: 5%


    Archy Taylor: 4%


    Thomas Donovan: 1%


    Others: 1.5%


    Public: 10%


    The whole room was shocked to see a complete shift in the shareholders¡¯ positions.


    Emma was utterly speechless as she watched all her brothers sell their shares. She remembered that her father had given her a smaller share (15%) compared to her brothers (20%). Still, now even her younger brother had only 1% left.


    She couldn¡¯t help but look at Thomas with a pitiful gaze. She couldn¡¯t believe her younger brother was so foolish to sell all his shares.


    ¡¯Did he use his share to pay someone to bail him out of the police station?¡¯ she wondered.


    "Everyone, this is the current update about our shareholder," Archy said, pausing when Jacob Donovan raised his hand. "Yes, Mr. Donovan?"


    "Who is Camellia Capital?" Jacob Donovan asked. He was unfamiliar with the company and had never heard of it in their city or country.


    "I cannot provide details about Camellia Capital as representatives from the company will be attending later to address their specific agenda."


    Archy¡¯s statement startled Jacob Donovan. Despite his initial belief that the person in question wouldn¡¯t show up, Archy¡¯s confidence now concerns him, and he starts to feel worried again.


    "Whoever this person is, they¡¯re being rude! How can they request a meeting and then fail to show up?" Bradley, who had remained silent for a while, finally spoke. "Even though I only have a 10 percent share in this company, I still have a say in whether this meeting should be canceled."


    "I agree with Bradley that Camellia Capital¡¯s behavior is rude. Do they realize that their share is only 37.5%? If we all unite, they won¡¯t be able to replace the executive position, right?" Lucas added.


    Instantly, Jacob¡¯s self-confidence rose again. His younger brother was right; their position was safe as long as they were united.


    "Gentlemen, no worries. That person will¡ª" Archy¡¯s voice stopped again as soon as the door opened.


    "Father?" Lucas was shocked to see his father appear, and Nick trailed behind, looking worried.


    Everyone stood up from their seats.


    "Father, why didn¡¯t you tell us you were coming?" Jacob said while offering his chair to his father, but Isaac Donovan waved his hand to refuse. He sat beside Emma, looking at all his sons in return, but said nothing.


    "Uncle Isaac, glad you finally came," Archy greeted the elder with a slight nod.


    "Yes, thank you, Archy. You can continue. Don¡¯t mind me¡ª" Isaac Donovan smiled gently at Archy, ignoring his useless sons.

 Chapter 387: Bella Finally Arrived

    "Yes, thank you, Archy. You can continue. Don¡¯t mind me¡ª" Isaac Donovan smiled gently at Archy, ignoring his useless sons.


    Archy proceeded to explain the agenda for today¡¯s selection of the company¡¯s new CEO and the management reshuffle. However, before he could finish his explanation, another person interrupted him.


    "Excuse me, Mr. Taylor¡­" Bradley interjected, prompting Archy to pause and look at him.


    "Yes, Mr. Bradley Caville, you may speak."


    "Why do we need to change the current CEO? Is it necessary? Besides, who are the candidates to replace Jacob Donovan? We don¡¯t have a strong candidate now."


    Bradley glanced at Jacob with a smile before addressing everyone in the room.


    "What the company needs now is to discuss and act on how to handle this situation. How can we escape from this suffering? We still need Jacob to work hard to return the company to being the number one company in this industry. Right, Uncle Isaac?"


    Isaac was utterly speechless after hearing Bradley¡¯s long explanation. Still, even after his lengthy speech, he offered no solution¡ªno wonder this company was going bankrupt. Not only are his sons unable to work, but they are also friends with this kind of businessman.


    The company has been struggling for months, but they still haven¡¯t found the right solution to deal with it. How stupid!


    Seeing his son¡¯s expression confirm Bradley¡¯s sentence, Isaac feels regrets coming to this meeting.


    After taking a deep sigh silently, he turned his gaze to Bradley Caville. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Well, young man, don¡¯t ask me. I¡¯m an old person. You guys, young people, should know what is best for this company," Isaac said gently, even though, in his heart, he regretted attending this meeting.


    Later, Isaac tries to dismiss his regret and focuses on his reason for coming here: to witness his granddaughter punish his ungrateful sons.


    Jacob and the others frowned after hearing Isaac¡¯s statement and his reluctance to get involved in this critical situation.


    He wanted to express his frustration, but all his words stopped on the tip of his tongue. He needs his father to vote later if the Camellia Capital people insist on replacing him and taking over the company management.


    "Father, we understand," Jacob said gently. "There¡¯s no need to worry. But later, we need your help to vote to stop other people from replacing us, the Donovan Family, from this company management¡ª"


    Jacob deliberately emphasized the Donovan Family so their father would not be confused.


    Isaac Donovan said nothing but smiled at Jacob.


    As no one else was speaking, Archy took control of the discussion.


    "Mr. Bradley Caville, I understand your concern, but we need to continue with the meeting agenda," Archy politely responded to Bradley Caville, who expressed his displeasure with a glare.


    However, before he could continue, Lucas Donovan interrupted.


    "Come on, Archy... we should end this meeting. Can¡¯t you see that the person who requested the motion to change the CEO isn¡¯t here¡ª" Lucas Donovan¡¯s voice abruptly stopped when the door swung open. He was stunned, and almost everyone in the room had the same expression.


    Instantly, the room became lively, with everyone talking in hushed tones to the person beside them, glancing at the newcomers.


    "Who is she? She looks familiar and beautiful."


    "She¡¯s the old Donovan¡¯s granddaughter, right?"


    "Oh, you¡¯re right. I remember now. She is Lucas¡¯s daughter, Arabella."


    They all gasped in surprise at the sight of the girl, who was now even more beautiful than they remembered. It was as if they saw a heaven goddess visiting their office.


    Bradley Caville felt his blood rush to certain parts of his body when he saw the woman he had dreamed of becoming his wife standing not far from him.


    His heartbeat races, but he doesn¡¯t dare to blink, worried that the girl he dreamed of will vanish from sight.


    ¡¯So beautiful and alluring,¡¯ Bradley Caville whispers under his breath. ¡¯I will make sure you become my wife. Pretty Bella, I will not let you go,¡¯ he vows with a sinister smile.


    While Bradley was busy looking at Bella with his sultry thoughts, Lucas was shocked beyond words to see someone he had been looking for the past month finally appear before his eyes: his good-for-nothing daughter.


    "Bella¡ª" Lucas whispered her name, too surprised to see her appear here in their shareholder meeting.


    Standing up from his seat, he wanted to drag her out to scold her, but his feet stopped when he saw several people following her into the room. They looked foreign. What surprised him was that all of them looked noble.


    Lucas tried to signal Bella that he wanted to speak to her, but she did not even give him a slight glance, which confused and angered him. His hand clenched into a tight fist when he saw her approaching Emma and his father.


    Before Lucas could call his daughter¡¯s name, however, she had already walked to the opposite end of the table and sat casually facing Jacob. A few people who had come with her were also sitting on her left and right sides as if they were part of this private shareholder meeting.


    As soon as Bella sat down, the room fell silent. Nobody spoke, but their eyes clearly showed confusion.


    Bella completely ignored their curious gazes. She deliberately didn¡¯t look at her father and uncles.


    She looked back to see Archy Taylor, still standing on the small podium, looking at her with the same expression as other people in the room.


    Bella smiled at him, "I¡¯m sorry, Uncle Archy. I came late. You can continue the meeting¡­" She sincerely apologized to him. Because she deliberated, she didn¡¯t enter the room immediately but waited for the right time.


    "A-Arabella? Bella...?"


    "Yes, uncle," Bella smiles before continuing. "I represent Camellia Capital," she says softly enough for only Archy to hear.


    Archy was shocked beyond words. He knew Camellia Capital was related to Emma Donovan. Still, he didn¡¯t expect that the company was actually associated with Arabella Donovan, the little girl he usually saw when he visited Old Donovan¡¯s house.


    He nods with a smile, and after clearing his throat, he reads his cue card once more, now in a louder and more enticing tone.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, let¡¯s continue the meeting."

 Chapter 388: The Shareholder Meeting Result

    Jacob felt uneasy when he saw Bella unexpectedly enter the meeting room. He interrupted Archy, stating, "As the General Affairs Director, I expect you would be aware that this meeting is restricted and invitation only, Archy! This is really disappointing!"


    Upon Jacob¡¯s remark, almost everyone in the room nodded in agreement, showing their disapproval of Archy.


    Turning his attention to Bella, Jacob questioned, "Only shareholders with voting rights are allowed in this room. Why have you permitted her to be here, Archy? I don¡¯t remember she was invited!" Jacob asks without shifting his gaze.


    Bella lowered her head, hiding her smile. She was tempted to reveal her involvement but decided against it for now.


    "Yes, Mr. Taylor, this is a private shareholder meeting, not a family meeting."


    "Agree!"


    "Yes, I agree too. Maybe young Miss Bella could wait outside after this meeting finishes."


    "Excuse me, Gentlemen. For your information, Ms. Arabella Donovan has every right to be here, to attend, and to participate fully in this meeting. Because she has a share, she actually¡ª" Archy¡¯s words faded when he saw Bella signal him not to reveal yet that she represented Camellia.


    The room erupted with conversation as everyone shared their thoughts on the new information they had just received.


    "Wait, she has a share? I don¡¯t believe you."


    "Under what name? Why didn¡¯t we see her name on the list earlier?"


    "Oh, she bought shares publicly?"


    "Hahaha, no wonder her name wasn¡¯t visible."


    "Everyone, I would appreciate it if you could keep your voice down!" Archy¡¯s voice was much louder and fiercer, and it worked to silence the room. Some of the attendees lowered their voices, and the rest stopped speaking.


    He continued, "I believe everyone here agrees this meeting will take forever if everyone tries to voice their opinion out loud."


    Archy¡¯s last statement managed to quiet everyone. Then, their attention was fixed on him as he discussed the main agenda: to decide whether the current CEO of the Donovan Group would be replaced, which would be done through voting according to their shares.


    Although no one said anything, the tension in the room grew, especially for Jacob and his group, who exchanged silent glances and worried about the vote¡¯s result.


    "Let¡¯s begin the voting process," Archy said, motioning to two of his secretaries standing in the corner.


    Shortly after, a male staff member approached Archy, carrying a white box, and stood beside him. At the same time, a female staff member distributed ballot papers to all meeting participants, including Bella and one of her friends.


    Thomas Donovan, observing Bella, frowned upon noticing that Bella and her friend received two ballot papers.


    "Alright, ladies and gentlemen, you now have your ballot papers. Please make your choices wisely. My staff will collect the papers in three minutes. You may begin now," Archy said, smiling at everyone. He also received a ballot since he holds a 4% share in the company.


    The room became noisy again as Jacob discussed the vote with Bradley.


    Bella only took a few seconds to write down her choices. Without waiting, she immediately called the staff carrying the box to put her ballot paper, which surprised Jacob and the others.


    Harper, who happened to sit beside Bella, also finished her paper. She then followed Bella to submit her vote.


    Jacob Donovan chuckled inwardly when he saw that Bella had finished making her choice. He didn¡¯t feel worried if Bella didn¡¯t choose him because he knew her vote wouldn¡¯t make a significant impact.


    He speculated that Bella had come to the meeting as a stock market shareholder. Her share might have accounted for less than 0.1% because the company¡¯s stock market shares comprised only 10%.


    However, Jacob was concerned about the woman next to Bella. He suspected that she was from Camellia Capital.


    Nonetheless, he wasn¡¯t too worried because even if they combined their shares, they couldn¡¯t oust him from company management if all his family supported him.


    ¡¯Wait, father? Emma?¡¯ Jacob turned his gaze to them. He was surprised that both had already completed their ballot papers and called the staff to submit them.


    "Father, Emma, have you chosen as I said?" Jacob asked, worried that they would betray him.


    Emma opened her mouth to say something, but Archy¡¯s voice stopped her, "Gentlemen, you have one more minute or your vote won¡¯t be validated."


    ¡¯Damn Archy Taylor! You are really annoying!¡¯ Jason cursed in his heart. He quickly wrote down his choice and returned the ballot paper to the staff, followed by Bradley and the others.


    Tension filled the room as they waited for Archy and his team to prepare for the vote count.


    Later, Archy stood next to the whiteboard and started opening the ballot papers in the box.


    "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have twelve ballots, and I will start to count..."


    Camellia Capital: 37.5% (Agree)


    Emma Donovan: 15% (Agree)


    Isaac Donovan: 11% (Agree)


    Bradley Caville: 10% (Disagree)


    Jacob Donovan: 5% (Disagree)


    Lucas Donovan: 5% (Disagree)


    Archy Taylor: 4% (Abstain)


    Thomas Donovan: 1% (Disagree)


    Layman: 0,5% (Disagree)


    Hill: 0,5% (Disagree)


    Steward: 0,5% (Disagree) S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Public: 0.09% (Agree)


    Jacob was shocked to see the result. His eyes narrowed at Emma and his father; he couldn¡¯t believe they betrayed him.


    He could understand if Emma did it because of what he did to her son yesterday.


    But his father? How could he do that!?


    "Father? Why do you agree? Do you really hate this company for letting others with whom you share no blood ties care for our family company?" Jacob couldn¡¯t help but express his anger. He couldn¡¯t stand it anymore, feeling humiliated.


    "Father, even though you are angry with us, how could you give this family company to someone else?" Lucas Donovan also expressed his annoyance.


    Lucas knew he would also lose his position as COO of this company.


    While his two older siblings were busy expressing their feelings, Thomas noticed his niece Bella conversing earnestly with Archy. This raised his suspicion. ¡¯Is she the owner of Camellia Capital?¡¯ he wondered.


    Before Thomas wanted to ask, Archy spoke again.


    "We have the results of today¡¯s voting. As you can see, more than 50 percent voted to agree to replace the current CEO," said Archy calmly. "Because of this result, I will hand the meeting chairman, or chairwoman, to Camellia Capital. For Camellia Capital rep, time and place are now yours..."


    "Thank you, Uncle Archy, for your hard work," Bella said with a smile, then turned to her uncles and father. It was fun to see their shocked expression.


    "Ladies and Gentlemen, let me introduce myself. I am Arabella Donovan, the representative from Camellia Capital."

 Chapter 389: You’re All Fired!

    Instantly, almost everyone in the room was stunned when they heard Bella¡¯s words.


    However, Lucas Donovan almost fainted upon learning that Bella represented Camellia Capital, the largest shareholder in the Donovan Group.


    "Bella, owning Camellia Capital? No, does she own the Donovan Group now? How did it happen?" Lucas¡¯ eyes widened as he stared at his daughter. It was still hard for him to fathom all of this.


    His mind started to fill with countless questions he wanted to ask her. But, not a single word could escape his lips for some unknown reason.


    ¡¯Did Bella buy Donovan Group shares using her alimony from her ex-husband?¡¯ Lucas muttered.


    A smile slowly appeared on his lips a moment later.


    ¡¯That¡¯s it! She definitely used her alimony money to buy company shares. But why would she buy this company? Did she know that this company has so many problems? On the verge of bankruptcy?¡¯


    Lucas attempted to ask her, but his words failed him again when he saw Bella still ignoring him. He felt frustrated, but he couldn¡¯t say anything. He thought he deserved her silent treatment.


    By this point, Lucas has concluded that his daughter must know what exactly happened to her mother. That must be the main reason she despises him so much.


    ¡¯Sigh! How stupid are you, Lucas Donovan? How could you ruin your own life? How could you choose a son over a daughter? So stupid!¡¯ Lucas could only vent his frustration inwardly.


    His hand clenched into a tight fist as he lowered his gaze, hearing his daughter speaking.


    "Ladies and gentlemen," Bella smiled, looking at each one before continuing. "Thank you for attending this voting event. Since the agenda has been completed, this meeting is over."


    Bella said calmly, but her words surprised almost everyone, causing protests from several shareholders who sided with Jacob Donovan.


    "What? Is it finished? Don¡¯t we need to choose the new CEO?"


    "Yes. Why did you dismiss this meeting before we finished?"


    "Miss Donovan, I know the company acquisition is new to you. And that¡¯s why I¡¯d like to advise you that this company you acquired needs a new CEO."


    "I agree. When the media knows Donovan Group doesn¡¯t have a CEO, they might troll us again, undermining every effort to stabilize the company. And eventually, the company stock price will sharply fall, even it will become worthless!"


    "So true!"


    "Yes¡ª"


    Bella looked at the three men, who had only a tiny share in the company and were her uncle¡¯s strong allies; she stifled a laugh upon hearing their words.


    "Young miss, why are you laughing at us?" one of the middle-aged men asked in anger. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Another man gritted his teeth as he looked at Jacob Donovan, "Jacob! You need to teach your niece. She lacks manners and the experience to take over this company."


    "Yes, Jacob! You can¡¯t let her take over this company, or in a week, we migh close down!"


    While a few people started talking nonsense about Bella, Harper, sitting beside Bella, leaned closer to her.


    "Girl, no wonder you ran away from your family; they are all now sitting in the lowest chain of stupidity." Harper couldn¡¯t hold back anymore from expressing her annoyance.


    Bella glanced at Harper and smiled, "Yeah. My uncles and father are already stupid, but they¡¯re also friends with those people. Gosh!! How stupid!"


    "I know, right? How can they run this company with such narrow-minded people? Hurry up and end this meeting, Bella. Otherwise, I might just drag them out and throw them out of the window," Harper said casually, but her sinister gaze betrayed her. She was really offended hearing those old geezers talk wrong about her best friend.


    "Don¡¯t dirty your pretty hands, Lady Harper," Bella chuckled. "No worries, I will handle them."


    "I¡¯m looking forward to it!" Harper replied before sitting up straight and waiting for the drama to unfold before her eyes.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer Harper; she just smiled and nodded slightly at her. Then, she turned to the three people still talking badly about her.


    She is not a Buddha who can contain her anger; she is only a human who can also be angry.


    "Mr. Layman, Mr. Hill, and Mr. Steward," Bella called the three of them with her icy tone, silencing the three middle-aged men.


    When she saw the three men now paying attention to her, with frowns on their foreheads, she smiled at them before asking, "Are you involved in management?"


    The three of them exchanged glances before responding to Bella in proud voices.


    "Of course we are!" Layman said, sitting straight as he introduced himself and his position in the company.


    Bella said nothing but turned her gaze to the next person, who introduced himself and his position in the company.


    After the three of them announced their positions, Layman asked, "Why do you want to know our positions?"


    She didn¡¯t answer Layman¡¯s question but said, "Gentlemen, thank you for your hard work to help this company. From now on, we no longer need you in this company. Go to your office and pack your things... You¡¯re all fired!"


    Suddenly, the room became noisy, and everyone was shocked to hear that Bella had casually fired three company directors.


    Three people stood up from their seats and pointed their fingers at Bella, shouting:


    "WHAT THE HELL! WHO ARE YOU TO FIRE ME?"


    "ARE YOU CRAZY? YOU CAN¡¯T FIRE ME!"


    "WHAT A STUPID LITTLE MISSY!"


    Despite the outburst, Bella remained calm. She understood their anger ¨C they must have been shocked to be unexpectedly removed from their positions.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer them but smiled before responding, "Who am I?" she asked.


    The three of them didn¡¯t answer her, only narrowed their gaze in annoyance and gave her a slight nod.


    She chuckled, "Oh, gentlemen, you seem to have short memories now. I told you before, right? I¡¯m the biggest shareholder in this company and have the right to fire you."


    The three of them were rendered speechless. How dare this young woman talk to them like that? And even have the audacity to fire them? They still can¡¯t believe it!


    "And, just to let you know, in case you miss or forget... I have the right to fire all of you without full benefit," Bella continued when she noticed them showing their angry faces without saying a word.

 Chapter 390: Her Action Shocked Them All

    The three of them were surprised at how stubborn Bella was in her decision to fire them.


    Hill, one of the men, secretly observed Bella¡¯s attitude. She remained calm even though they scolded and said negative things about her.


    ¡¯This woman is not simple. She is not an ignorant young miss who didn¡¯t know what she was doing. She must be aware of her actions now. Or, were the people beside her professionals who allowed her to be calm and aware of the actions she was taking now?¡¯ Hill thought, frowning as his gaze remained fixed on Bella.


    After several seconds without anyone making a sound, they only stared at Bella silently. Finally, Hill couldn¡¯t stop himself from being silent any longer.


    "Miss Donovan, I know you are angry with us for our rude comment about you; I sincerely apologize for that. But you can¡¯t fire us just like that; you also need to check the contributions we have already made to this company," Hill said calmly. This is his last chance to convince Bella not to fire them.


    Bella chuckled in delight, hearing Mr. Hill¡¯s words.


    "Mr. Hill, do you want me to tell you your contribution to the company¡¯s downturn?" She continued her words before Hill said something.


    "You, sir, embezzled project funds worth 30 million for constructing the flyover on the city¡¯s west side in 2018. You utilized your private company to win the tender for raw materials and building construction in District 7 in 2019; your unethical and unprofessional action has cost our company 50 million and made the project a net loss."


    Bella stopped for a moment when she saw Mr. Hill pale as if all his blood had left his face.


    "Do you want me to continue, Mr. Hill? I still have so many things I could tell you now."


    "No, no. Please stop!" Hill said, trembling. It¡¯s too frightening to know that this girl knows everything about his dark activities behind the company. How could she know that? He always makes sure to cover his tracks.


    "Are you sure, Mr. Hill?" Bella asks, pretending she is hesitant to stop.


    "Y-Yes... Please!"


    A faint smile emerges on her lips, and Mr. Hill¡¯s expression turns ugly. She looks at the two men, Mr. Layman and Mr. Steward, who have expressions similar to Hill¡¯s ¡ª shocked and frightened.


    "Mr. Layman and Mr. Steward, do you both want me to remind you of your contributions to the company?" She asked politely, but her words sounded like a death sentence for both of them.


    They shook their heads vigorously, refusing to expose themselves just like what happened to their friend, Hill. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Are you sure? I have plenty of records here," Bella said while holding her phone and pretending to open it. She stifled a laugh when she saw them press their lips tightly while shaking their heads.


    Bella decided to stop pressing them again.


    "Okay, gentlemen, you can go now. But before you leave this building, my people outside will give you the paper to sell your share. You can sign the paper, and my people will transfer the money to your bank today."


    "Miss, I don¡¯t want to sell my share."


    "Me too!"


    "Same with them. I also don¡¯t want to sell my share."


    Bella shook her head and narrowed her eyes at the useless director. She decided not to keep them in the Donovan Group, as they were all her uncle¡¯s allies.


    "Fine! But don¡¯t blame me if your video¡¯ party at the White Angel Brothel downtown ends up on your wife¡¯s cell phone," Bella said sternly.


    Instantly, Hill and two others were shocked. They almost stumbled upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    ¡¯How does she have that video? No, how does she know they are members of that Brothel house?¡¯ Hill wondered.


    "Young Miss...I mean Miss Donovan, please tell me how to sell my share," one of them asked.


    "Yes, me too!" another chimed in.


    "I agree too!" the third one added.


    Bella smiled happily, looking at the bunch of idiots.


    "Bryan, please show them the way!" she commanded.


    The door opened, and Bryan entered the room, surprising everyone by revealing that Bella had people guarding outside the meeting room.


    After Bryan escorted the three directors out of the room, everyone inside couldn¡¯t take their eyes off Bella. Everyone, including Emma and Isaac, was still in shock and at a loss for words after witnessing what had happened.


    They didn¡¯t expect Bella to be so stern in her decision to fire three directors. Moreover, she did it casually while managing to coerce them into selling their shares.


    "Grandpa, Aunty, and the rest of my family, please wait for me in the CEO¡¯s office. I will discuss something there..." Bella said, addressing her father and uncle.


    When she saw her father¡¯s expression, which looked dark, she laughed inwardly. She pretends not to care about him.


    Bella calmly watched as everyone started to stand up from their seats. Her eyes were fixed on Bradley Caville, who seemed reluctant to leave the room.


    The look in his eyes disgusted Bella, making her feel like she wanted to vomit. She silently sighed deeply, trying to calm her anger and resisting the urge to rush at him and punch his face. She knew exactly what he was thinking just by how he looked at her. It was shameless!


    "Mr. Caville, you may stay for a while," Bella said softly, shocking everyone walking toward the door.


    They all stopped and looked at Bella in disbelief, asking Bradley Caville to stay and speak to him alone.


    Bella smiled as she looked at her family, who seemed worried about her, especially her Grandpa and Aunty.


    "Sam," Bella called out to Sam, who had been standing near her aunt, guarding her, since her arrival in the meeting room.


    "Yes, boss," Sam glanced at her.


    "Bring my family to the CEO¡¯s office," she instructed.


    Soon, the large meeting room felt empty. Only four people were left, including Bella, who was still sitting in her position with Daniel Sullivan, the Legal Director of Quantum Capital.


    Bryan, who had just returned, was standing near the closed door with his casual, deadpan expression, staring at Bradley Caville.

 Chapter 391: Bradley’s Off-Putting Smile

    Bradley Caville couldn¡¯t hide his happiness because Bella finally noticed him. She even asked him to stay. This warmed his heart and made him plan to pursue her again to become his darling wife.


    "Bella," Bradley said, only calling her beautiful name was enough to make his heart race. He silently swallowed, trying to calm his chaotic heart.


    "Why do you want me to stay here with these gentlemen...?" he continued, looking at the sharp-looking middle-aged man with gold-framed glasses sitting calmly beside Bella.


    "This is Daniel Sullivan. He¡¯s part of my legal team," Bella said calmly while turning to see Daniel. "Daniel, you may start¡ª"


    "Yes, Ms. Donovan," Daniel Sullivan nodded. He took a few sets of papers from his bag and placed them before Bradley Caville, which confused him.


    "What is it, Bella?" Bradley asked while looking at her. When he saw Bella avoiding him, he smiled wryly as he lowered his gaze back to the paper in his hands and began reading.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Bradley to return his gaze to Bella, confusion flashing through his eyes, but she still ignored him. He looked at Daniel Sullivan.


    "Mr. Sullivan, why did you give me this paper?"


    Bradley was shocked to receive a letter of agreement to sell his shares in the Donovan Group Company to Bella Donovan.


    "Have you finished reading the paper in its entirety, Mr. Caville?" Daniel Sullivan asked calmly.


    "Yes. What is it? Why did you give me this paper?" Bradley asked again. He was still confused, but Daniel didn¡¯t answer him at all. "Bella, can you explain it to me?"


    "All the explanations are in the letter, Mr. Caville. I suggest you read it again if you still do not understand. And when you¡¯re done, please sign it!" Daniel once again answered, which was enough to make Bradley angry.


    "And why on Earth would I sign this paper?" Bradley¡¯s voice rose, and his tone was condescending. He starts sharply on Daniel Sullivan, "You see, Mr. Sullivan, I don¡¯t plan to sell my shares," he said, pushing the paper toward Daniel.


    He would not let go of the Donovan Group, especially knowing Bella was now a major shareholder. This was his opportunity to be close to Bella with his ten percent share in her family¡¯s company.


    "This is not a negotiation but an instruction for you to sell your shares to my client, Ms. Donovan," Daniel Sullivan explained calmly, ignoring Bradley¡¯s displeased look. "Don¡¯t worry, sir. We won¡¯t buy at a low price even though we could. But we also won¡¯t buy your share at a premium price. We will pay for your shares at the company¡¯s market price before it drops."


    Bradley¡¯s hands clenched into fists. Hearing Daniel Sullivan¡¯s words, he felt offended. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could this man force him to sell his shares at the price before it drops?


    Bradley narrowed his eyes, ready to vent his anger, but when he saw Bella, he pressed his anger back into his heart. He didn¡¯t want to look bad in front of her.


    ¡¯How can this man want to buy my shares at that price when Donovan Group¡¯s share price is currently at its lowest point, or in other words, worthless? Did he think I¡¯m stupid? They must have a good plan to increase the price soon, and they won¡¯t exclude me from being part of it,¡¯ Bradley couldn¡¯t help but vent his frustration inwardly.


    He was annoyed, but he tried to maintain a calm expression.


    After a few more seconds, Bradley turned to Bella. He asked, "Bella, I don¡¯t know your intention to force me to sell my shares to you. Can you please explain why you suddenly wanted to buy my shares?" he asked gently, hoping Bella would speak to him.


    But Bradley¡¯s hopes were dashed instantly when Daniel Sullivan answered, "Mr. Caville, because you didn¡¯t deserve those shares, and your intention to buy those shares was an ill intention and illegal!"


    The thin lines on Bradley¡¯s forehead became more visible when he realized that Bella didn¡¯t want to talk to him. He felt offended for the first time since seeing her in this room.


    After a deep sigh, frustrated with Bella¡¯s silent treatment, Bradley turned his gaze back to Daniel Sullivan.


    "Ill intention and illegal? What do you mean by that? Is it about my marriage proposal to Ms. Bella? What is wrong with me, a single man who wants to marry her? And she is also a single woman..." Bradley said, waiting for Daniel to respond.


    However, Daniel didn¡¯t seem inclined to answer.


    Angrily, Bradley continued, "And, you know what, Mr. Sullivan? Her father and uncle said that if I buy this company¡¯s shares, they will arrange for me to marry her. So what¡¯s wrong with that!?"


    "Because my client is someone else¡¯s lawful wife. Mr. Bradley. How could you have the audacity to intend to marry Ms. Bella when she¡¯s another man¡¯s lawful wife? That¡¯s an illegal act," Daniel Sullivan casually replied.


    However, Daniel¡¯s words almost caused Bradley to vomit blood. He was too shocked to hear Bella was already married.


    How could that be? Why did Lucas Donovan not know about it and want him to marry his daughter?


    It¡¯s hard for Bradley to believe what he hears. Or did his mind refuse to believe? He no longer understands.


    After a few more seconds lost in his trance, Bradley Caville suddenly laughed out loud.


    "Bwahaha..." Bradley¡¯s booming laugh echoed in the room, enough to cause Bella to finally lift her head from her cell phone and look at him.


    "Mr. Sullivan, are you kidding right!?" Bradley didn¡¯t believe it. Daniel Sullivan must have wanted to trick him into signing the paper to sell his shares.


    He looked at Bella with a gentle but off-putting smile. "Bella, I can understand if you don¡¯t like me. But please give me a chance to prove that I really want to marry you and that I¡¯m worthy to be your husband." After deep breathing, he continued, "Bella Donovan, please become my wife..."


    Bradley¡¯s off-putting smile widened when he saw Bella, who didn¡¯t say anything, just staring at him.

 Chapter 392: Second Warning!

    ¡¯Yes! This is a good sign. She didn¡¯t refuse...¡¯ Bradley felt utterly happy as he stood and walked toward Bella.


    However, before he could reach her, suddenly, a strong hand grabbed his shoulder, pulled him back, and threw him back into his seat.


    "What the¡ª"


    Bradley¡¯s words abruptly stopped when he saw the tall, well-built man standing near the door, now standing before him. Looking at the man¡¯s expression was enough to pressure him.


    Shocked, Bradley suddenly felt like someone had just put a weight on his shoulders, and he couldn¡¯t move.


    ...


    Bella chuckled to herself upon hearing a sudden proposal from Bradley Caville.


    ¡¯Geez, this man! He¡¯s really setting himself up for trouble. If my jealous husband overhears this, this poor man could be in life-threatening trouble.¡¯ She couldn¡¯t help but feel slight pity for Bradley Caville¡¯s audacity.


    "Bryan," Bella motioned for Bryan to step aside so she could see Bradley Caville¡¯s reaction.


    Bryan still wanted to block Bradley¡¯s view of his boss¡¯s wife. However, looking at how firm Bella¡¯s gaze was now, he finally positioned himself one meter away from Bradley to ensure this delusional man would not harm her.


    If given a choice, Bella wouldn¡¯t want to talk to this social scumbag. However, she was forced to speak to him because this old man¡¯s imagination was too nasty for her to handle and needed to be stopped as soon as possible.


    "Mr. Bradley, ugh...I¡¯d rather call you Uncle Bradley," Bella paused momentarily. She wanted to mock him deliberately, hoping to annoy him. "Yes, that nickname suits you very well because you are the same age as my father," she said with a smile, looking at his red face.


    "Uncle Bradley, you think too highly of yourself," she continued.


    Bradley¡¯s face, which had looked calm before, slowly showed annoyance. He didn¡¯t like hearing Bella call him uncle, but he couldn¡¯t refute her words because she was right.


    Bella expressed anger to his face, silencing him from his ridiculous and sultry thoughts. "How could you think you were my only option to marry? How ridiculous! How shameless!"


    "Bella, I know, but¡ª" Bradley¡¯s words stopped when he saw the man standing beside him, sending a shiver down his spine. He saw a warning through the man¡¯s sharp gaze, ¡¯Speak one more word, and I will skin you alive.¡¯


    Bradley swallowed. He lowered his gaze and looked at his clenched hands. He remained silent, waiting for Bella to say something.


    "Let me remind you, Uncle Bradley. Have you realized what happened to your business in the last few weeks?"


    Bradley suddenly lifted his head and looked at Bella. His eyes widened, but no words could escape his lips. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He felt like his mind was struck by lightning as he remembered the company matter that had been causing him headaches over the past weeks.


    As he thought about why Bella was asking, a realization hit him.


    ¡¯Oh my god! Did Bella cause all the suppliers and factories to stop selling their goods and merchandise in my supermarket chains? Seriously, could she do that!?¡¯ He looked at her in horror. He was shocked to hear his own thoughts.


    Bella¡¯s satisfied smile appeared on her lips as she dropped another bombshell on Bradley. "So... Uncle Bradley, that¡¯s my first warning to you..."


    "Are you the one who stopped my suppliers and vendors from selling their products in my stores?" Bradley tried to confirm his suspicions.


    Bella didn¡¯t bother to answer him, but her smile was enough to confirm his thoughts¡ªalthough it was not entirely correct because her husband was the one who did it.


    "Uncle Bradley, now you choose: sign the paper, sell all your shares to me. And, one more thing, please throw away your thoughts of marrying me, or you will experience my second warning!"


    Bradley clenched his teeth after hearing Bella¡¯s warning. He wanted to marry her, but if he lost his company and wealth, it would be useless to marry her, right?


    Losing a little won¡¯t hurt him because he might get this beautiful, hot woman to warm his bed every night.


    ¡¯Damn it! Should I give up on her? Or give up my company?¡¯ Bradley Caville felt even more puzzled. ¡¯Man, if you are penniless, this girl will not like you...¡¯ Reality hit him.


    After a few seconds of thought, Bradley gathered the courage to ask her, "Bella, may I know your second warning?"


    Bradley could feel his heart tighten as he waited for her answer. He still had a little hope of winning her heart for some reason.


    "Of course, Uncle. Well, your company will experience what the Donovan Group is facing now. So, if you still¡ª"


    Without waiting for Bella to finish her sentence, Bradley immediately grabbed the paper before him and signed it quickly.


    "Done! I hope you don¡¯t touch my company again, Bella," Bradley said seriously. Even though he felt annoyed that he couldn¡¯t marry Bella, his company would return to stability, and he would not lose his wealth.


    "Uncle, you should have done this sooner so that we wouldn¡¯t waste time here," Bella said, amused to see Bradley suddenly change his attitude after she revealed her plan to ruin his company. "Thank you for your cooperation, Uncle Bradley. You will receive your money soon."


    "Thank you, Bella."


    "Now, you can leave this place. For your own good, I hope you will no longer appear in front of me in the future," Bella said casually, but Bradley knew it was a warning.


    Bradley didn¡¯t want to deal with Bella again; he could guess she had a strong backup behind her. He nodded silently and immediately left the room.


    As Bradley hurriedly left the room, a victorious smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips.


    Bella was delighted to regain her family¡¯s company shares. Despite the company¡¯s share value hitting its lowest point, she didn¡¯t care. She wanted to delist the company from the stock exchange and make the Donovan Group a private company once more. She had enough personal funds to support the company without needing money from the public.


    "Boss, congratulations..." Daniel Sullivan¡¯s words snapped Bella from her thoughts.


    "Thank you, Daniel."


    "Shall we now confront your father and uncles and clean up their mess?"


    "Yeah. It¡¯s about time we deal with them once and for all! Let¡¯s go¡ª"


    Bella stood from her seat. She looked sharp, calm, and composed. Then, she confidently walked toward the CEO¡¯s office.

 Chapter 393: Erasing You From My Family Registry

    While in the CEO¡¯s office.


    Jacob Donovan paced the room, ignoring his family in the seating area. He was too nervous about what Bella wanted to discuss with them.


    "Jacob, can you stop pacing like that?" scolded Isaac Donovan. He asked his son to join them while waiting for Bella.


    However, Jacob ignored his father¡¯s warning. He continued walking back and forth, muttering to himself like a crazy person.


    ¡¯Bella will not replace me, right? If she does, who is the right candidate?¡¯ This question danced in Jacob¡¯s mind since he left the meeting room.


    The more he thought about it, the more worried he became about his own future. Even though he could predict what Bella might do, he still tried to ignore it.


    His heart still held a slight hope that Bella would be merciful, and she only wanted to warn him. She wouldn¡¯t replace him as the CEO of the Donovan Group.


    A nervous smile slowly appeared on his lips as he continued to guess Bella¡¯s next plan.


    ¡¯I¡¯m sure Bella will not offer the CEO position to other people, right? Or did she plan to give it to Lucas...? No!¡¯


    Jacob suddenly halted. He frowned while glancing at Lucas, who was now talking to Thomas.


    ¡¯No! Bella can¡¯t offer the CEO position to her father; that girl despises her father so badly! Lucas didn¡¯t have a chance¡ª¡¯ He dismissed his thought and tried to walk again.


    But it didn¡¯t take long; his steps once more stopped when Emma yelled at him.


    "Come on, brother Jacob! Stop acting childish. You are old enough to face this matter with maturity and calmness," Emma said, exhausted from seeing Jacob pacing before her eyes.


    "Jacob Donovan, you had better stop now, or don¡¯t blame me if I get angrier!" This time, Isaac Donovan called his son in an icy tone, enough for Jacob to shiver. He didn¡¯t utter anything but rushed to join his family.


    Looking at Jacob, now sitting across from him, Isaac Donovan stared him in the eyes for a few more seconds before he continued his words. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That¡¯s why Bella wants to replace you as CEO of this company. You¡¯re useless but arrogant. You¡¯ve been leading this company for years, but you have not been able to make it soar; instead, you brought it down because of your incompetence. And yet, your lifestyle and personal expenses that the company paid were extravagant, too lavish, and uncareful, putting the company at risk."


    Isaac paused for a few more seconds to take a deep breath to calm his anger, his cold, icy gaze still fixed on Jacob.


    "Jacob, I¡¯m really disappointed in you. You brought down not only this company but also our family. Our family image was diminished by your tendency to find easy ways while disregarding ethics and morals." Isaac Donovan said with a heavy heart.


    "Father? What do you mean?" Jacob frowned, confused by his father¡¯s last sentence.


    "How could you send a gangster to abduct Bella and detain Liam? Are you a human or a devil in disguise? Why do you bring yourself so low like that?"


    Isaac Donovan¡¯s voice was trembling, too angry to remember how his eldest son orchestrated his evil plan to harm his niece and nephew.


    Jacob Donovan was almost choked to hear his father¡¯s words. He was too shocked to realize that his father knew what he had done in the past, especially about the gangster he sent to abduct Bella.


    As he looked into his father¡¯s eyes, Jacob wondered how his father knew. Soon enough, a chill ran down his spine as he realized Bella must have known about it, too.


    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯ Jacob cursed inwardly. Now, he understands why Bella purchased shares in their company through an anonymous entity intending to oust him from the company¡¯s management.


    ¡¯So, Bella comes to take her revenge on me and my brothers!?¡¯ Jacob Donovan bitterly thought to himself. He didn¡¯t foresee this move from his niece. He thought Bella was just an ordinary woman after Tristan Sinclair divorced her. But it looks like she gets a new, strong backup.


    When Jacob was about to say something to his father, suddenly, something crossed his mind. Someone betrayed him!


    ¡¯Who? Who has the guts to betray me?¡¯ Jacob glanced at his brothers, Lucas and Thomas. However, seeing the shock on their faces, he quickly dismissed the idea. It was clear that they had no prior knowledge of their father¡¯s awareness of their plan to abduct Bella.


    ¡¯Emma!! It must be her. She has been so close to father and Bella recently...¡¯ Jacob, even more annoyed, looked at his sister.


    While Thomas expressed his frustration to Emma, Thomas and Lucas averted their eyes, unable to meet their father¡¯s eyes.


    They both tried to avoid their father¡¯s anger, hoping he wouldn¡¯t scold them. Unfortunately, their wish was shattered.


    "And you, Lucas Donovan!" Isaac Donovan said, pointing his finger at Lucas. "You are a failure! You are so foolish..."


    Lucas slowly raised his head to meet his father¡¯s angry gaze. He could guess what his father wanted to say. He didn¡¯t speak as he lowered his head again, feeling his heartache intensify, as if someone had just rubbed salt into a wound in his heart.


    "You are so foolish to mistreat your wife and daughter. Do you realize that you have now lost them?" Isaac said, his hand clenched, trying to calm his pounding heart. "Do you know they both want to sever ties with you now? And do you know that your wife is sick? She¡¯s fighting for her life with cancer!"


    As if thunder had struck him, Lucas was shocked as he stared back at his father and asked, "W-What? What are you trying to say, father? Who is sick? Is it Natalie? Cancer?"


    Lucas Donovan felt his body trembling as he spoke. He was shocked to learn about Natalie¡¯s current condition.


    Isaac Donovan ignored his son. He was too angry to respond and focused on calming his beating heart. If he continued in anger, he might have suffered a heart attack and ended up in the hospital¡¯s emergency room. Even so, his eyes still looked displeased at his son.

 Chapter 394: Father, Help Me!

    After a few minutes passed and his heart no longer raced, Isaac Donovan continued to express his disappointment to Lucas.


    "And you know what, Lucas? I also think of erasing you from my family registry. You don¡¯t deserve to carry my name!"


    Everyone was shocked to hear Isaac¡¯s words, especially Emma. It was the first time she had witnessed her father saying he wanted to erase his son from the family registry.


    In the past, even when their father was really furious and disappointed in them, he had never said those words. This time, he was just bluffing, right? S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Emma tilted her head slightly to see her father¡¯s face. Her heart suddenly tensed when she saw the seriousness and determination in his expression.


    ¡¯Oh my god, Father is serious...he really wanted to erase Lucas from the family registry!?¡¯ Emma muttered while gazing at Lucas. She saw his face turn as white as the first snow; he was also shocked.


    "Father¡ª"


    Suddenly, Lucas stood from his seat and kneeled before his father.


    "Please forgive me. I know I¡¯m so stupid, a scumbag; I¡¯ve been so cruel to my wife and my daughter. But please give me a chance to be a better person. Please, Father, don¡¯t disown me." Lucas pleaded while holding his father¡¯s feet. He whimpered, almost crying.


    He had lost everything¡ªhis wife, daughter, and now his father. Just thinking about that, he felt frightened. He felt lost. He can¡¯t imagine what will happen in the future.


    Isaac Donovan let out a long sigh while looking at Lucas with a look of pity. However, his annoyance slowly emerged in his heart when he remembered Lucas¡¯s terrible behavior.


    Isaac closed his eyes for a moment, trying to clear his mind.


    After a while, he opened his eyes again and softly said, "Even though I¡¯m willing to forgive you, don¡¯t expect anything from Natalie and Bella," he said sternly.


    Lucas opened his mouth, trying to say something, but no words could leave his lips.


    "You hurt them so badly, Lucas. I hope you stop what you are doing, too, for the sake of my sanity. If you still act like a scumbag, evil... I might die from anger and shame if you continue your lifestyle. I hope you understand what I¡¯m trying to say to you!" Isaac continued.


    "I understand, Father. I promise you... I won¡¯t do anything to shame our family," Lucas said sincerely. What he had heard today was like a wake-up alarm for him.


    He witnessed his daughter¡¯s power in the meeting room as she took over the company and mercilessly fired three longtime directors. She also didn¡¯t hesitate to fire her first uncle from the company.


    And what made him devastated was the news about Natalie battling cancer without his knowledge breaking Lucas¡¯ heart.


    But everything was too late for him. Like his father said, he had already lost his wife and daughter; he didn¡¯t have a chance to get their forgiveness.


    It was too late for him to beg for forgiveness.


    Sigh!


    Lucas was aware that there was something strange inside him. He didn¡¯t understand why, but his intense hatred towards everything was growing day by day.


    He knew he needed to break free from the darkness that had consumed his mind and heart, but every attempt felt too challenging. He tried, but the hatred was still there.


    What happened today made Lucas even more convinced of the idea hidden in his heart to leave. Leaving everything behind.


    Yes, the only solution was to go far away from his family and anyone else he might harm. That was the only way to find peace for him and his family.


    "Get up! Bella will be here soon, and she¡¯ll be even more annoyed and angry if she sees you like this." Isaac commanded.


    "Please, Father, help me. Please help me so that my family can forgive me..." Lucas once again begged. He didn¡¯t wish for Natalie or Bella to return to him but only wanted their forgiveness.


    Isaac Donovan took a deep breath and looked at his son. Lucas was kneeling before him, and Lucas¡¯s eyes started to dampen. Instead of feeling sorry, Isaac began to feel irritated.


    "I¡¯m not a god, Lucas. You know what you have done all this time cannot be forgiven. Not by a man," Isaac shook his head slowly when he saw his son¡¯s tears start to flow.


    Isaac continued, "My only suggestion is that from now on, you must live your life proving to Bella and Natalie that you have really changed. I might not live long enough to forgive you, but maybe your wife and daughter can forgive you in the future. Stop asking for forgiveness through me, but meet them and kneel before them!"


    Lucas hung his head low, looking at the marble floor. He was weeping with tears streaming down his cheeks.


    His heart felt sore, not because he feared being fired by his daughter but because he imagined what he had done to his family. He truly felt evil and understood that his behavior could not be forgiven.


    Now, he could only grit his teeth and curse himself in his heart.


    After a few more seconds, consumed by his sadness and anger, Lucas finally stood up from the floor and walked toward the door. He didn¡¯t want to sit in this room anymore. He just wanted to leave, to calm the darkness in his heart.


    He didn¡¯t need to meet Bella because he didn¡¯t want his daughter to hate him even more if she saw him like this. Or, he was too afraid his anger would flare up again and widen the distance between them.


    "Brother Lucas, where are you going?" Thomas asked. He was surprised that Lucas wasn¡¯t sitting but walking toward the door. "Bella asked us to wait for her here..."


    Lucas stopped and then turned his head to Thomas, his younger brother.


    "I will be in my office packing my things. I no longer need all of this ¡ª my power and wealth. I no longer need them," he said with a bitter smile before turning around and leaving the room, surprising everyone.


    "Huh!? Why did Brother say those words?" Thomas asked himself while scratching his head. Puzzled by his brother¡¯s sudden change, he felt like he saw someone else, not Lucas.


    "Stop overthinking," Emma said, responding to Thomas¡¯s curiosity. "Lucas needs to calm down because he just realized he has lost everything: his family, wealth, and even his self-esteem."


    Emma felt slightly sorry for her brother, but her sympathy slowly faded when she remembered what he did to Natalie and Bella.


    ¡¯You deserved it, Lucas! I hope you can be a better person in the future.¡¯ She muttered inwardly while looking at her father.


    Emma leaned closer to her father when she saw his eyes turn red. She whispered, "It¡¯s fine, Father. He will be alright, so no need to feel sorry for him."


    "I do not feel sorry for him. But I know I might have a part in his falling toward evilness. I failed to raise him properly, unlike I raised you, Emma. The evil man he has become, I should have stopped it before it became."

 Chapter 395: Revenge On Her Evil Uncle! (1)

    Before Bella arrives at the CEO¡¯s office, she asks Daniel Sullivan and Bryan to join Harper and the others in the lounge, where they are waiting for her.


    She needed to talk with her family before finalizing everything regarding the handover of the CEO position.


    However, when Bella opened the CEO¡¯s door, she was surprised to see the room¡¯s vibe, which was extraordinarily gloomy and cold, as if she had entered a funeral home. No one spoke; they all focused on their cell phones or were lost in thought while looking at the scenery outside the building.


    A slight smile appeared on Bella¡¯s face, but it faded when she didn¡¯t see her father in the room.


    ¡¯Where is he? Did he go home without waiting for me!?¡¯ Bella muttered as she continued walking to join them.


    At the same time, Isaac Donovan glanced toward the door and was surprised to see Bella. Instantly, the gloominess in his eyes faded. He smiled and waved his hand to his granddaughter.


    "Bella, are you done taking care of your matter? Come in and sit next to Grandpa," Isaac¡¯s words surprised everyone. They all looked at Bella.


    Still waiting for Bella¡¯s verdict on firing him, Jacob became even more tense. He smiled as his niece walked over to join them. However, he could only swallow hard when he noticed Bella completely ignored him and Thomas.


    Feeling sour, Jacob chuckled inwardly while trying to tell himself that keeping his position as CEO of Donovan Group was impossible. Bella and her team had shut down or anticipated every possible way he could think of. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The only thing he could do now was pray that Bella would not expose his past dark secret, which he had kept only for himself.


    If this girl exposes him, like she did in the meeting room earlier, he will be in serious legal trouble.


    ...


    Bella nodded slightly to her Aunt Emma and uncles before settling beside her Grandpa and leaning closer to him. "Grandpa, where¡¯s my father?" she whispered.


    Isaac Donovan shrugged, taking a deep sigh.


    "Hmmm. Lucas, he¡¯s in his office. I guess he was devastated after I told him about your mother¡¯s grave illness," Isaac replied in a low voice, hoping no one else heard his words except Bella.


    Unfortunately, everyone in the room still clearly listened to what he was saying.


    Bella was rendered speechless. It seemed her Grandpa forgot about his promise to keep her mother¡¯s illness a secret. Now, her father knew about it, and she no longer had a chance to hide the fact that her mother was staying in her house.


    She slowly touched her earphones to communicate with Sam. It didn¡¯t take long; Sam¡¯s voice echoed from the other end.


    "Boss...?"


    "Sam, please guard my father¡¯s office. Don¡¯t let him leave this building. My business with him is not over. Not yet!"


    "Consider it done, Boss!" Sam replied.


    After hearing confirmation from Sam, Bella returned her focus to the two men sitting anxiously before her.


    She felt amused by how shocked and frightened their faces were as if they had seen her as their worst nightmare.


    If only she had more time, Bella would definitely torture them longer. But now, it was already past lunchtime, and she didn¡¯t want to keep her grandfather waiting any longer.


    "Mr. Jacob Donovan, here we are, meet again," Bella greeted him formally with her polite smile.


    "My pretty niece Bella, please just call me Uncle Jacob. We are fam¡ª" Jacob¡¯s voice was cut off when Bella raised her hand, stopping him. He frowned, waiting for her to speak.


    Isaac and Emma were also surprised as they glanced at Bella, curious to know what she wanted to do. They could no longer predict her movements or how she planned to teach her uncles and father.


    "Mr. Jacob Donovan, maybe you¡¯ve already forgotten, but I clearly told you in the hospital when we met the last time," Bella said.


    Bella smiled faintly while shaking her head, amused by the memory of their last encounter when she visited her Grandpa in the hospital.


    At that time, she was so angry when her father and uncles blamed her for the company¡¯s failure because she agreed to divorce Tristan without telling them all.


    Jacob¡¯s frown deepened as he tried to remember what Bella had said to him, which made her speak so formally like they were strangers.


    After waiting a few more seconds, Bella continued, noticing Jacob¡¯s puzzled expression.


    "Mr. Jacob, it seems you have an extremely short memory. That¡¯s natural. You are no longer young, and early amnesia usually comes to people like you," Bella slightly laughed when she saw Jacob holding back his anger.


    Instead of fearing Jacob¡¯s anger, she seemed relaxed and much happier.


    "Let me remind you again, sir. At that time, I promised myself I would sever any ties with you, including blood ties. I vowed that I don¡¯t have an uncle like you..." Bella said sincerely. She didn¡¯t try to annoy him now; those were her true feelings about the two men before her.


    After seeing the shocked expression on Jacob¡¯s face, Bella turned to her younger uncle, Thomas Donovan.


    "If you¡¯re curious about your status... Well, it¡¯s the same, Mr. Thomas. I also think of you like that. Even though our last name is the same, I have erased you both in my heart and mind," she said, returning her gaze to Jacob.


    No one said anything for a moment, nor did they move. They all looked at Bella with the same shocked expression, as if they couldn¡¯t believe what they heard.


    Bella let them take in her words, not attempting to say anything, but a smile flashed through her eyes; she looked calm.


    However, Bella was worried that her decision to sever family ties with her two uncles would disappoint her grandfather.


    Before long, Thomas Donovan finally broke the silence. "Bella, why are you so cruel and heartless?" he asked with an annoyed tone, enough to flare Bella¡¯s anger.


    "Cruel? Heartless? Are you really serious about what you¡¯re saying, Mr. Thomas Donovan?" Bella narrowed her eyes at Thomas, feeling like she wanted to whack this man¡¯s mouth with her high heels.

 Chapter 396: Revenge On Her Evil Uncle! (2)

    Bella narrowed her eyes at Thomas, feeling like she wanted to whack this man¡¯s mouth with her high heels.


    Before Thomas could say anything, Bella interrupted him to express her anger.


    "How can you say that word when you, sir, behave like that precisely? You teamed up with your brothers to, in a way, sell me to Bradley Caville in an immoral act of marriage arrangement. And you were aware that your brother was sending bandits to kidnap me. And yet, you didn¡¯t stop them! Your silence and inaction is complicity, sir."


    "Bella¡ª"


    "Mr. Thomas! I¡¯m not done yet! And I expect you to continue to remain silent. It seems the best thing you can do is silence, JUST like before!" Bella hurriedly said when she saw he was about to speak.


    Thomas swallowed hard, feeling his throat starting to hurt.


    ¡¯Damn it! How dare she stop me!? Ask me to be silent?¡¯ Thomas couldn¡¯t help but vent his frustration while looking at his furious niece. He tried hard to maintain his calm expression. However, hearing her following words, his calmness shattered.


    "Mr. Thomas, you also contributed to wrecking the company your dear father, my grandfather, built. And now you dare to call me CRUEL AND HEARTLESS? Did you leave your brain somewhere, or do you simply not have one left inside that thick skull?"


    Thomas was left speechless. He didn¡¯t expect to find out that his niece had such a sharp tongue¡ªsharp enough to pierce his heart. His face slowly turned red; he was too angry to deny that everything she said was true, and he was powerless to stop her.


    "How dare you call me cruel and heartless? Mr. Thomas Donovan, you should go to the powder room and take a good look at yourself in the mirror. Then you¡¯ll see who the real cruel, heartless, and shameless one is here..."


    Thomas wanted to vanish from this room. He couldn¡¯t win speaking to this sharp-tongued and sharp-witted girl! He turned his gaze away, looking scared and limp, pretending he was too exhausted by Bella¡¯s scold.


    "Pft!" Emma almost burst out laughing upon hearing Bella scolding Thomas and looking at how weak her brother was before Bella. It instantly put her in a good mood. "I¡¯m so sorry, Bella... Don¡¯t mind me. Please continue," she said when Bella glanced at her, suddenly worrying that Bella was bothered by her sudden laugh.


    Bella smiled at her beloved Aunt Emma before turning her gaze to Thomas. However, she is left speechless when she sees Thomas seemingly ignore her despite his frail appearance.


    Well, at least now she didn¡¯t have to waste time speaking to her brainless uncle. She turned to look at Jacob; her business with him was not yet settled.


    "Mr. Jacob Donovan¡ª" Bella¡¯s sharp voice was enough to make Jacob look at her intensely.


    He didn¡¯t say a word, but his heart beat loudly. He tried hard to maintain his composure and was apparently successful.


    "The official outcome of the shareholder meeting is to remove and replace you as CEO of this company. Therefore, from now on, you will no longer be the CEO of the Donovan Group. Please clean your desk and pack your things. The company¡¯s website will have an official announcement within the next twenty-four hours," She calmly ended her words.


    Bella was impressed by Jacob¡¯s calm expression. She felt happy because she didn¡¯t have to waste any more time fighting with him.


    Jacob looked at Bella with an expressionless gaze but horridly cursed her in his mind.


    How could this little bitch treat him like this? He would have lectured her if only his father hadn¡¯t been with them.


    ¡¯HAH!!¡¯ Jacob shouted inwardly to lessen his anger.


    However, when Jacob felt slightly better, Bella continued to torture him and almost caused him a heart attack.


    "Please sign this letter, Mr. Jacob," she said as she took a brown folder from her bag and placed it before Jacob. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What is it!?"


    "It¡¯s a letter to transfer all your shares to me. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t take your shares for free, but I will buy them at the current market price¡ª"


    "What the fuck are you trying to say, Bella?"


    This time, Jacob could no longer hold back his anger. He cursed his niece and didn¡¯t care when his father glared at him. He was too angry to hear this little girl ask him to sell his shares. Is she crazy and stupid?


    "You can hear me clearly, Mr. Jacob. Why are you asking again? Please read the paper carefully and sign it!" Bella looked and sounded calm. She didn¡¯t feel offended or scared by his anger.


    "Bwahaha¡ª" Jacob laughed loudly, mockingly at Bella. "Do you think I will sell my shares to you!? Stop dreaming. I will never sell my share! You can only have it over my dead body!"


    Bella smiled. She felt amused looking at her uncle¡¯s arrogance and foolishness. She said nothing and let him finish his words.


    "Even though I am no longer the CEO of this company, I am still a shareholder, and you can¡¯t stop me from attending the next shareholder meeting! Hahaha!" He arrogantly expressed his annoyance and added an unmistakable forced laugh. "You can¡¯t force me, Bella! YOU CAN¡¯T! HAHAHA...."


    Bella didn¡¯t respond to Jacob immediately but chuckled at his arrogance, causing Jacob to frown. Looking at her calmness, he started to feel worried.


    "Fine! However, you must return all the company money that you embezzled and used for personal gain and expenditures," Bella paused her words to enjoy how Jacob¡¯s face slowly turned pale.


    "You know what, Mr. Jacob? Earlier, I offered to buy your shares because I still have slight pity in my heart as you are my grandpa¡¯s eldest son. But it is clear that you refused my kindness. Therefore, regretfully, you must pay and return everything you took from the company."


    Bella took a deep breath, expressing her regret in an obvious manner. She pretended to feel sad for him.


    Jacob gasped and didn¡¯t know what to say.

 Chapter 397: Revenge On Her Evil Uncle (3)

    "Mr. Jacob, according to the report I received from my people who investigated you, the money you need to pay to the company is worth a hundredfold the current value of your shares..."


    Instantly, Jacob felt like his soul had betrayed him. He was shocked to hear Bella¡¯s words.


    Jacob couldn¡¯t hide his worry. By doing this, this girl must have a backup and hold plentiful evidence against him. Someone, or some people, had helped her uncover their dark secrets. How could she know all of that?


    When Jacob thought Bella would stop exposing and softly threatening him, he was wrong.


    Bella continued, "And Mr. Jacob, please say goodbye to your family because soon you will live in prison for the rest of your life, with cases involving the attempted abduction of your niece, me. And, the case of Liam¡¯s arrest, and¡ª"


    "STOP! STOP IT! I GET IT..." Jacob roared. He couldn¡¯t stand hearing Bella expose him, especially with his father present.


    Bella smiled with satisfaction at her progress. However, her smile faded when she noticed Jacob¡¯s inaction and the furious gaze he directed at her.


    An idea crossed her mind¡ªto further provoke her evil uncle by adding fuel to the fire of his anger.


    "Mr. Jacob, I have all the evidence needed to keep you in jail for a long time. Let¡¯s not waste any more time here. I suggest you follow your equally despicable friend Bradley Caville¡¯s example; he was wise to agree to sell ten percent of his shares at the current market price." sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once again, Bella¡¯s words left everyone in the room shocked. It was difficult for them to believe that Bella had been able to persuade Bradley Caville to sell his shares at a low price.


    Bella leaned back casually against the sofa while checking her cell phone, pretending to look for something. She was actually reading her group chat with Harper and the others. She ignored everyone¡¯s gaze, who were still shocked by her actions.


    "Mr. Jacob Donovan, I suggest you sign the paper now before I change my mind and make you miss Sunshine forever," Bella said without taking her eyes off her phone.


    Jacob felt like he wanted to slap this young girl. How dare she do this to him? But, once again, his anger subsided when reality hit him; he was powerless. He had no choice but to swallow all his anger back into his stomach, lost in his own trance.


    A few minutes passed, but Jacob remained glued to his place and didn¡¯t say anything or move. Bella frowned as she looked up to see him.


    "You seem to have decided to choose the hard way, Mr. Jacob Donovan..." Bella said in a pitiful tone while touching her earphones again, her gaze still locked with Jacob.


    Shortly after, Bella could hear Stefan¡¯s voice greeting her from the other end.


    "Bro, you can prepare the news about Jacob Donovan having a mistress at the city border. You could also prepare to expose his teenage son¡¯s detailed information. Let my dear aunty know everything about¡ª" Bella¡¯s words slowly faded when she heard her Grandpa furiously scolding Jacob.


    "Heaven! What the hell are you doing, Jacob Donovan? Having another wife? How could you do that!?" Isaac Donovan was utterly shocked when he heard Bella¡¯s words.


    Not only was Isaac shocked, but Emma and Thomas were too. They never imagined their older brother had such a secret. They looked at Jacob with the same expression as their father¡ªshocked and disbelieving.


    Jacob completely ignored his father, furious. Because after hearing Bella¡¯s words, his mind froze. He felt like his soul was about to be shattered.


    He stared back at Bella in horror. How did she also know about that? He was already sure to keep his secret; no one knew. Even his personal assistant didn¡¯t know about his other woman and son. He completely sealed them away from his family and close people.


    Bella smiled when she saw her uncle staring at her but not saying anything. She could guess what he was thinking.


    "Mr. Jacob, do you want to know how I found out about your second wife and my smart cousin?"


    Jacob blinked several times. He opened his mouth to say something, but his words never left his lips. All the words he had in mind refused to come out.


    "Because you were so careless to leave so many traces for me to find out about them," Bella said casually. She would never mention that Stefan had uncovered all her uncle¡¯s misdeeds.


    "Now, you choose! Sign the transfer paper or your beloved wife will know everything. You still remember your wife, strong enough to throw you in the street, penniless, right?" Bella¡¯s casual words struck Jacob to the core.


    "WAIT, BELLA! PLEASE STOP YOUR PEOPLE! DON¡¯T DO THAT!" Jacob roared. If his wife knew, he would be in big trouble.


    Bella turned her gaze to Jacob.


    "Why did you stop me, sir?" she asked, raising her beautiful eyebrow slightly, presuming she didn¡¯t like someone interrupting her.


    Jacob Donovan gritted his teeth, feeling tired and frustrated talking to her. This girl was genuinely stubborn and cruel.


    "Alright, I will sign. I will sign. Please make sure you don¡¯t expose me!" Jacob said, glaring at Bella.


    Bella still frowned, gazing at Jacob as if she were telling him through her sharp eyes, "Do it now, or I will send the evidence to your wife!"


    Jacob Donovan grabbed the pen and signed the paper. In a moment, another 5 percent of Donovan Group became hers.


    Bella could not hide her happiness at smoothly gaining all her enemy¡¯s shares, almost without significant rejection. She took the paper and saw her uncle¡¯s signature, smiling, satisfied.


    After putting the folder in her bag, she took out another set and glanced at Thomas Donovan, who happened to see her with wide eyes and gasped.


    She stifled a laugh, amused by his silly expression.


    "Mr. Thomas, do you want to volunteer to transfer your 1 percent share, or do you want me to expose your dark secret too?"


    "I will sign!" Thomas Donovan didn¡¯t dare to deal with this sharp-tongued girl. He starts to believe that Bella could read people¡¯s minds.

 Chapter 398: Revenge On Her Evil Uncle (4)

    "Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Thomas Donovan. You are smart enough not to waste our precious time any longer," Bella said, placing the share transfer paper in front of him before turning her gaze to Isaac and Emma.


    "Grandpa, Aunty¡­"


    Bella¡¯s voice completely changed. There was no intimidating, fiery tone like when she talked to Thomas and Jacob. A spring-like smile framed her innocent face, causing Jacob and Thomas to roll their eyes at her biased attitude.


    "Yes, what is it, Bella?" Emma asked gently.


    "You don¡¯t have to wait for me here, Aunty, Grandpa," she said while looking at them in return. "You both could have lunch first or return home. I will not join you for lunch because I have to meet my father now¡­"


    Bella was worried her Grandpa would be hungry because it was so late for lunch.


    Isaac Donovan furrowed his eyebrows when he heard Bella¡¯s words. He was worried about letting his granddaughter meet Lucas without him present.


    "Bella, what are you talking about? I¡¯m not hungry," Isaac hurriedly responded. "I will be right by your side when you meet your father." S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She instantly shook her head. "It¡¯s fine, Grandpa. I can handle my father alone. You don¡¯t have to worry." When she saw her Grandpa didn¡¯t like her idea, she continued, "My father doesn¡¯t have a chance to harm me; Bryan and Sam will accompany me." She tried to convince him.


    "Father," Emma held her father¡¯s hand. She continues her words, "Let Bella meet Lucas alone..."


    Emma knew her niece wanted to talk to Lucas privately but didn¡¯t want her father to hear them.


    Even though Isaac Donovan was still worried about it, he finally agreed. "Promise me, you can¡¯t meet him alone, Bella!"


    "Mmm, I promise¡ª" Bella smiled.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go, Dad," Emma said while standing from her seat. She glanced at Bella, "Don¡¯t forget your lunch, or someone might worry about you." Emma flashed a meaningful smile at her and patted her shoulder gently.


    Bella widened her eyes, worried her aunt would talk about Tristan and forget that Jacob and Thomas were in the room.


    "Oh, right. I forgot to ask. Will you stay here tonight or return to the capital?" Emma asked.


    "I will stay here for a couple of days," Bella answered.


    "Really!?" Isaac was so happy to know his granddaughter would not return to the capital immediately. "Bella, stay at my place. I will ask Nick to prepare a room for you..." he offered.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m staying at the hotel. Because my team will also stay with me. Maybe next time¡ª"


    Isaac said nothing, only cleared his throat and followed Emma. However, before they walked away, Jacob Donovan stopped them.


    "Wait, Dad... Emma..." Jacob shouted, then turned to Bella. He was curious about something. "Why did you let your Grandpa leave just like that? You need him to choose the new CEO, right?" Jacob asked.


    Jacob was curious to know who would replace him. He also wanted to hear his father¡¯s opinion on whether Bella chose someone unrelated to Donovan to become CEO of the Donovan Group.


    Even though he no longer owned shares in this company, he couldn¡¯t let others run it. However, he would be fine if Bella became the new CEO of the Donovan Group.


    Upon hearing Jacob¡¯s words, Bella smiled faintly, "Oh, I forgot to tell you. We have already decided on the person who will replace you."


    "Seriously? Who?" Thomas chimed in, also curious to know.


    "Aunty Emma..." Bella¡¯s words suddenly made Jacob and Thomas¡¯ jaw drop in surprise. "Starting tomorrow, Aunty Emma will start her new position as CEO. And Uncle Archy Taylor will assist her as the company¡¯s chief operating officer to replace my father," she explained.


    Jacob was speechless. He never expected Bella to choose his sister to replace him. His gaze landed on Emma, who was smiling at him.


    Bella continued, "And as for the chief financial officer, Aunty Emma will continue to lead the team until we find a replacement."


    Thomas suddenly felt his throat go dry upon hearing that. He felt envious of his sister and then realized that Bella hadn¡¯t mentioned his position.


    "What about me, Bella?" Thomas finally dared to ask.


    "Mr. Thomas Donovan, sorry I can¡¯t let you work at the company. Professionals in the field will take over your work. Please clean out your office immediately," Bella answered him casually before leaving the room with Aunty Emma and Grandpa.


    Thomas¡¯s face slowly turned grim. He didn¡¯t argue with Bella, but inwardly, he cursed her, wishing the worst on her.


    ***


    Bella didn¡¯t go straight to her father¡¯s office. Instead, she stopped by the private lounge to meet Harper and the others.


    When Bella arrived at the private lounge, she was surprised to see them enjoying their lunch.


    "No wonder you guys didn¡¯t ask me to rush to finish my meeting," Bella chuckled, surprising them all. They turned to see her.


    "Bella, are you done with them already? That was fast!" Harper asked after swallowing her pasta. She gestured for Bella to join them.


    "I¡¯m done dealing with my uncle, but not yet with my father. I need to meet him now," Bella answered Harper while walking closer to them.


    "I came here to ask you to go lunch outside without me, but it looks like you guys have already placed a delivery order," she said, amused because she was worried they would be hungry waiting for her.


    "Yeah, we didn¡¯t want to bother you, girl," Harper replied.


    "Boss, we ordered sushi for you," Leo said.


    Bella¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw the sushi rolls. She didn¡¯t sit with them but took a slice of sushi and ate it. After finishing, she sighed deeply and said, "You guys continue. I will meet my father now."


    "Let me accompany you," Leo said, standing from his seat, but Bella stopped him. "Why?" he asked, confused.


    "Me too!" Bryan said while wiping his mouth.


    "I don¡¯t need both of you, but I need Daniel," she glanced at Daniel, who was already standing from his seat. "Let¡¯s go."


    Bella needed Daniel Sullivan to accompany her in discussing her parents¡¯ divorce papers.

 Chapter 399: Finally, Bella Meets Lucas Donovan (1)

    Bella arrived at the office of the chief operating officer on the eighth floor.


    As the COO, her father had an essential role in the company, overseeing its day-to-day administrative and operational functions in the Donovan Group.


    Bella saw that the staff on this floor continued to work diligently despite the company¡¯s difficult situation. She felt positive and believed a change from incompetent to competent leaders would stop the company¡¯s downward track and return to its potential growth.


    From afar, Bella spotted Sam sitting in front of the room, looking tense, with a few staff members busy with their tasks nearby. She quickened her pace and approached Sam.


    "Boss¡ª" Sam immediately stood to greet her.


    "Sam, is he trying to get out?" Bella asked curiously, worried that her father would make things difficult for Sam.


    Besides, Bella didn¡¯t want to attract suspicion from the staff about what had happened; she had taken over the company from her uncles and father.


    Sam smiled before answering, "Yes. But when I explained nicely that you asked him to wait, he said nothing else and returned inside."


    "Alright, good. Thank you, Sam." Bella smiled at him before looking at Daniel beside her. "Daniel, can you wait here with Sam? I need to talk to him alone first."


    "Sure, ma¡¯am," Daniel nodded politely.


    Standing before her father¡¯s office, Bella tried to adjust her expression to show no emotion and calm her mind. After a few more seconds, feeling much better, she finally knocked on the door.


    "Come in!"


    Bella felt tense when she heard her father¡¯s voice letting her in. She tightly clenched her hand when she saw her father sitting on the sofa, looking towards her.


    The urge to immediately slap her father several times for what he did to her mother was so strong. But, with great effort, she managed to hold it and hide any rage that came with it.


    ¡¯Calm down, Bella! Calm down! Finish your business with him immediately, and leave this place.¡¯ She kept reminding herself while walking towards the sitting area.


    "Bella," Lucas said softly with his trembling voice, standing from his seat. He gestured for her to sit on the empty sofa across from him. "Please sit, my daughter. Here, here. Come sit over here. Uhm, do you want anything to drink?


    Tea or coffee, maybe?"


    For a few seconds, Bella was stunned to hear how polite he was, offering her a drink the moment they met. She shook her head and refused his offer.


    After settling into her seat, Bella was even more stunned when she saw her father¡¯s expression more clearly. He looked much older than his actual age, with sad and frailness framing his face.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but frown as she witnessed her father¡¯s unusual attitude.


    This was her first time seeing her father show his vulnerability. As far as she could remember, her father always displayed cruelty. He made threats whenever he appeared before her or spoke to her.


    ¡¯Is he trying to trick me with this pitiful look?¡¯ Bella wondered. She tried not to waver about what her father would do or ask later.


    "You must know why I¡¯m he..." Bella paused when she saw her father stop her. Although displeased, she decided to hear what he wanted to say.


    "Bella, I hope you would hear me out before you say something," Lucas Donovan said softly, his eyes staring deeply into Bella¡¯s confused-looking eyes. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas took a deep breath before continuing, "I know. I understand that my past actions do not deserve your or your mother¡¯s forgiveness. Still, I really want to apologize to you and your mother..." His trembling voice couldn¡¯t hide how sad he was now.


    Bella was stunned; she didn¡¯t expect to hear this line from her abusive and cruel father.


    ¡¯What on earth happened to him? Why? Why did he suddenly turn into a nice man?¡¯


    It¡¯s hard for Bella to believe the man sitting before her is her father. All this time, her father has never shown affection and has always been rude to her and her mother.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to respond to his apology. She only stared at him in disbelief.


    At this moment, her mind was still busy figuring out whether her father sincerely apologized to her or if all that was a mask and a ruse to keep his position in this company.


    For a while, neither of them said anything. They just sat, lost in their own thoughts.


    After several seconds, Bella finally broke the silence.


    "Why did you suddenly change like this? This is too unbelievable to be real," she asked, curious to know.


    Lucas was surprised to hear Bella¡¯s question. He could feel that he had changed but didn¡¯t know why. He just felt like his mind was empty.


    "No, no. Please, Bella. Hear me out, and I beg for your trust, at least for one last time. This is real, and I don¡¯t have any more energy to live, let alone trick or do something bad to you or your mother. But I don¡¯t know why I do and feel like this..."


    Lucas continued, "Maybe after your mother decided to stay away from me and get rid of me from her life, and maybe knowing that she was fighting death, all of that made me realize something about me. How I¡¯m frail and broken without her...but, but, I treated her so badly. Treated you so badly. That¡¯s how lost I have been all along."


    After his lengthy words, Lucas lowered his head and shoulders, too weak and embarrassed to meet his daughter¡¯s gaze. His eyes were open but looked empty and nearly lifeless now.


    Bella gasped in surprise upon hearing his words. However, a second later, she hurriedly maintained her calm expression, trying not to believe what he said, afraid her heart would waver.


    "My daughter Bella, I¡¯m sorry. I failed to become a good father to you and a good husband to your mother," Lucas continued with a grief-stricken tone. "I will not ask you and your mother for anything but forgiveness. And after that, whatever punishment that you and your mother would do on me, I shall take it. Even if it¡¯s death."


    Bella was rendered speechless.

 Chapter 400: Finally, Bella Meets Lucas Donovan (2)

    Lucas slowly lifted his head when he didn¡¯t hear Bella saying anything. He was worried that Bella would despise him even more.


    "Please don¡¯t feel burdened, Bella. I understand and won¡¯t force you to forgive me," Lucas said with a smile, trying to break the coldness between them.


    "No, I don¡¯t feel burdened. I just feel weird speaking to you now."


    Lucas frowned slightly. "Weird? Please, Bella. I no longer have the will and energy to lie to you. I have come to terms with how now I have to pay the consequences of everything I did to you and your mother."


    "Okay. But you have to understand why I feel that way. I feel like I¡¯m talking to someone else," Bella gave him a half-hearted smile.


    Bella smiled bitterly when she saw him smile. She continued, "This is the first time you are talking to me without being angry or glaring at me. Also, hearing you apologize and beg for forgiveness, hearing those words from you sounds foreign to me. Almost felt unreal."


    Lucas could only smile at her, unable to say anything because what she said was true. Even he felt like he didn¡¯t know who he was now. He felt so strange, so lost, and so weak!


    Once again, they both stare at each other silently.


    Lucas Donovan slumped back, consumed by his sorrow.


    Meanwhile, Bella struggled to remind herself not to be swayed by her father¡¯s sudden change. She didn¡¯t want to forgive him easily.


    After several minutes passed, Bella finally broke the silence. She turned her gaze back to Lucas Donovan.


    "Even though you have changed now, try to show me that you¡¯ve become a better person and ask for forgiveness. But... I¡¯m sorry, I won¡¯t forgive you," Bella said firmly. However, she felt like there was a lump in her throat as she spoke.


    Lucas nodded slightly, agreeing with her. He said nothing but turned his gaze away to hide his teary eyes.


    "Father, what you did to my mother is too much for me to forgive you. Even if my mind wanted to, my heart did not. I feel pain every time I remember how you tortured and hurt your own wife!"


    Bella said in a casual tone, trying hard not to show her sadness, but it was too difficult. Her anger was still reflected in her gaze.


    She clenched her fists tightly before continuing to express what she wanted to say to him.


    "And, even though you are my father, I will not make an exception for you. Like my uncles, I won¡¯t keep you in this company either. I¡¯m sorry, but you must relinquish your COO position..." Bella¡¯s words faded when she spotted a brown box on her father¡¯s desk.


    ¡¯Huh! He already packed his things...¡¯ Bella was stunned. She didn¡¯t expect her father to give up his COO position without fighting like her uncles.


    Countless questions started dancing in her mind: Why did he give up so easily? Did he try to trick her into winning his position? What the hell is his plan?


    Bella didn¡¯t expect to witness all of this. Before she entered the room, she had prepared herself to hear her father scold or curse at her.


    But now? Nothing! Her father looked so harmless, like a cute puppy! S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Bella was confused, Lucas endured the hurt he felt in his heart.


    Though his daughter¡¯s tone had sounded casual earlier, every word she said felt like a steel knife scraping him from head to toe.


    Lucas knew he didn¡¯t deserve his daughter and Natalie¡¯s forgiveness, but hearing her rejection from her lips hurt him deeply.


    "Bella, I understand," Lucas said.


    Once more, Bella was surprised, looking at how calm her father was now.


    "I see you already packed your things," Bella asked.


    "Yes, I already know you will replace me, Bella. And I don¡¯t mind it at all. I know I do not deserve to sit in this position. There are so many capable people outside who could become the COO and bring back this company to become number one in this industry."


    Upon hearing her father¡¯s words, Bella felt a sense of disagreement with him. Despite not being a good father to her and a good husband to her mother, he was very diligent in his work.


    Out of her grandfather¡¯s four children, her father was the most capable in business matters, followed by Aunt Emma. However, even though Bella is aware of this, she has decided not to keep him in the company.


    Because she knows that one of her father¡¯s weaknesses is his inability to resist the temptation of other women and power.


    The more wealth and power her father had, the more women were willing to give their bodies to him, even though they knew that her father was old and still had a legal wife.


    Bella would never make her father stay in this company, gaining his power and wealth.


    "I appreciate your understanding," Bella responded. She was happy because she didn¡¯t have to argue with her father.


    Lucas Donovan cleared his throat while looking at Bella. Slowly, a thin line appeared on his forehead as something crossed his mind.


    "Bella, even if I leave this office, I hope you give your brother Henry a chance. He is not at fault in this company mess. Still, because I¡¯m too ignorant to raise him, it has caused him to become like that," Lucas Donovan sincerely pleaded with Bella.


    Bella¡¯s expression slowly changed, showing anger when she heard her brother¡¯s name. She realized she would never have a good relationship with her big brother, no matter how hard she tried¡ªHenry would become her mortal enemy!


    However, Bella is aware that Henry is also a victim of their parents¡¯ use of violence instead of love.


    She looked her father in the eyes and said, "I will make an effort to help him. However, he needs to work hard just like everyone else. He won¡¯t secure a position in the company without earning it!"


    Bella wanted to teach Henry to become a decent human, not become evil and snobby like their father or their uncles.

 Chapter 401: Finally, Bella Meets Lucas Donovan (3)

    Lucas Donovan agreed with Bella. He realized that Henry had never faced any hardships and had started his career from a privileged position. Henry had joined the company with various advantages and quickly rose to become the General Manager of one of the company¡¯s branches.


    As a result, Henry became arrogant towards his subordinates and lax in his work. Under his leadership, the office had become the worst-performing branch in the company.


    "I won¡¯t interfere with whatever you want to do, Bella. And there¡¯s something I¡ª" Lucas paused, hesitant to express what was on his mind.


    Bella frowned, waiting for her father to continue his sentence.


    After a few seconds passed, he didn¡¯t say anything else, as if his sentence was finished, even though she knew it wasn¡¯t.


    She secretly took a deep breath, debating again with her heart, ¡¯Should I add to the burden on him about the divorce that my mom wanted?¡¯


    "Bella, about your mother. I heard from your grandfather that she has cancer. Can she be cured? Can I meet her?" Lucas¡¯ sudden question surprised Bella.


    She narrowed her eyes at him, her hands in her lap clenched into tight fists. This was what she wanted to talk about: her mother¡¯s matter.


    However, listening to his last question somehow flared her annoyance. Her mother won¡¯t meet him because she is still dealing with trauma.


    After a few moments of silence, trying to find the right words to say, Bella finally began to explain to Lucas about her mother¡¯s illness and the recent surgery she had undergone.


    Lucas was shocked beyond words upon hearing this. He felt even more blame himself upon learning about it.


    "I am so grateful to hear that her surgery went well. I hope she will regain her health again," Lucas expressed, his eyes filled with happiness, knowing that Natalie had made it through the critical period.


    A faint smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips before she responded, "Even though her surgery was successful, she is still suffering from trauma."


    "Trauma?" Lucas inquired.


    "Yes, my mother is dealing with serious trauma. After so many years of being married to you, she has been living in a delusion. She always thought she was happy being married to you, but she realized it was not the case, and it was too late..."


    Bella paused, looking at her father for a moment before revealing why her mother refused to meet him.


    "She has trauma meeting you. And my mom has decided to file for divorce. She¡¯s already prepared the divorce papers for you to sign."


    Lucas Donovan suddenly sat up straight as if struck by lightning. He was shocked to hear that Natalie, his wife, wanted a divorce.


    ¡¯How could she ask for a divorce?¡¯


    He clearly remembered that Natalie had never said those words before, even after their big fight, except for the last time they fought.


    Until now, Lucas never imagined that Natalie would dare to leave and divorce him. But now, hearing from Bella that Natalie wanted a divorce, he immediately got goosebumps. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas¡¯ eyes reddened as he looked at Bella. He was still trying to hold back the anger that was starting to tear his heart apart. His hands were clenched tightly until his knuckles turned white.


    "Bella, I won¡¯t force your mother to return to me. But please tell her I will not divorce her either. Your mother will become my last woman..." Lucas Donovan said firmly.


    After hearing her father¡¯s refusal, Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration inwardly. She had already imagined this.


    "Father, please," Bella sighed deeply before continuing, "If you don¡¯t sign the divorce papers now, then you will face her in court. And I guarantee you will lose."


    Lucas¡¯ forehead slowly furrowed, and his eyes radiated emptiness and sadness as he looked at his daughter. He said nothing.


    "I have strong evidence that you often had sexual relations with younger women when you were still married to my mother. That evidence will not give you a chance to win in court. So, Father, please just sign the paper. This is to protect your good name and reputation."


    "Bella, you¡ª" Lucas lost his words again. He was too embarrassed to hear that his daughter had proof he slept with other women.


    ¡¯How can she get the evidence? Did the woman I slept with betray me?¡¯ Many questions made Lucas even more afraid and embarrassed.


    However,


    Despite all the evidence, he didn¡¯t want to let go of Natalie.


    After a few more seconds, he said, "Bella, you can do anything. And it¡¯s fine if you bring this case to court."


    Lucas¡¯s calm smile spread across his face, shocking Bella with his calmness and refusal.


    He continued, "As for the humiliation I will get when all that evidence is exposed in court, I don¡¯t care anymore. I really don¡¯t care about my reputation..."


    Bella felt like her heart was about to stop hearing his words.


    "Excuse you, are you... really, Lucas Donovan, my father?" She couldn¡¯t help but voice her doubts. Talking to this man, she felt puzzled.


    Lucas Donovan laughed. As his laughter subsided, he said, "Of course, I¡¯m your father. Why are you thinking I¡¯m not?"


    "No, you are not. Your attitude is so different! The father I know would be angry, flip the table, scold me, or show any harmful attitude now. But you are the opposite of my abusive and evil father," Bella paused, her eyebrow wrinkling even more as she looked at her father¡¯s smiles.


    "Are you perhaps someone else who has taken over my father¡¯s body...?" Hearing her own sentences that didn¡¯t make sense at all embarrassed Bella. But she had no other choice but to question it.


    Once again, Lucas¡¯ laughter echoed in the room. He seemed amused by Bella¡¯s words.


    "I¡¯m your father, Bella. Well, I can understand if you are confused by my attitude now because I¡¯m also confused," he said as he shrugged and paused for a few more seconds to take a deep sigh. "I only feel that my life no longer has meaning once I know what happened to your mother¡ª"

 Chapter 402: A Successful Surprise!

    Bella said nothing, but her displeased gaze made Lucas continue to explain more.


    "I promise you. I will not force your mother to return to me. I also will not force you to marry the man I choose. You are free to do anything you want, my daughter."


    He smiled before continuing, "As for my reputation, power, and wealth that I always pursued in the past, all of that means nothing to me now... It brings nothing but sadness to me now. I just want to leave this all behind; maybe that way, you and your mother won¡¯t feel scared and traumatized anymore if you see me."


    Bella was increasingly puzzled hearing her father¡¯s words. Just as she was about to end the conversation because he refused to sign the divorce papers, something suddenly crossed her mind.


    ¡¯Oh my God! No way...¡¯ Bella muttered under her breath while gazing in shock at her father as she began to understand what he was trying to say.


    A rush of anger flooded through her as she imagined the possibility of what her father wanted to do. If her suspicions were true, she would definitely be angry at him. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Father!" she called sharply, unable to conceal her anger. "Are you trying to end your life...?" she narrowed her eyes as she saw how confused he looked. "No!?"


    Lucas Donovan was confused by her question, ¡¯Why did Bella assume that!?¡¯


    Before Lucas wanted to clarify, Bella continued her words with the same angry tone as before.


    "Don¡¯t you dare do that, Father! It¡¯s a cowardly thing to run away like that. If you truly want to earn our forgiveness, you should stay alive and fight harder to gain my mother¡¯s respect! My respect! Repent for your past mistakes for the rest of your life. That is the best thing for you to do now.


    Don¡¯t ever think about ending your life."


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide her anger anymore. She hated this man, but she also didn¡¯t want him to die quickly. She wanted him to live longer and repent for the sins he had committed in the past.


    Lucas Donovan was taken aback by her words and found her shocked expression amusing. He wasn¡¯t sure if he should be happy about her reaction since she seemed not to want him to die. He tried to suppress his smile, not wanting to upset her further.


    After clearing his throat, he said, "Bella, my dear daughter, I never considered ending my life. Please don¡¯t worry too much." He smiled at Bella. "I¡¯m sorry if I scared you."


    "Who¡¯s scared? I just don¡¯t want you to die prematurely because death would be too easy for you, father!" She wanted to say that, but all her words stuck in her throat.


    After she felt calm, Bella voiced her confusion, "Why do you sound like you have given up on your life and are even willing to disgrace your reputation."


    "I told you before that I feel like my life has no meaning now. Hearing your mother ask for a divorce hit me hard. I thought that if I disappeared or stayed away from your lives, it would make you both calm and not feel threatened and embarrassed because of me."


    Bella was relieved to hear his words. She realized she had been worrying for nothing.


    "So, you want to live in a remote place? Become a monk?" Bella asked. The thought of her father living in the mountains and becoming a monk felt strange to her.


    "Yes, I choose to live far away from you and your mother to give you both freedom, but I won¡¯t become a hermit. I¡¯m just nobody trying to repent his dark and sinful pasts." He smiles. Bella, I promise you, I will no longer be a burden to you and your mother."


    Lucas Donovan¡¯s voice trembled; it sounded sincere because what he said now was coming from the depths of his heart. He could only do this to keep his family away from his evil side, isolate himself from the world, and punish himself for his sins.


    "You are really selfish, Father!" Bella said, annoyed. She preferred he sign the divorce papers rather than run away from his problem. "Can you just sign the divorce papers? Let my mother free?"


    "Oh, Bella... I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t. God forbids us from getting a divorce. I won¡¯t do that!" He said firmly.


    Bella was left speechless by his excuse. Since when does this man remember God in his actions? How shameless!


    Despite her efforts to ask him politely to sign the paper, her father still refused.


    She wanted to force him, but seeing how determined he was, she decided to speak to her mother before opting for a particular action.


    Bella decided to leave. She didn¡¯t want to linger, wasting time listening to her father¡¯s plan to become a monk or whatever he wanted to do with his life.


    However, Bella still left the paper and asked him to sign it and bring it to her hotel if he happened to change his mind.


    ***


    After leaving her father¡¯s office, Bella stopped to meet with Archy Taylor. They discussed the agenda for tomorrow¡¯s internal meeting.


    Bella then left the building with her team just before sunset.


    They will stay at the Sinclair Hotel, occupying the top floor to ensure effective communication and security. Tristan arranged this to prevent any potential threat from Jacob Donovan during Bella¡¯s stay in the city.


    When Bella arrived at her bedroom, she was surprised when the door swung open and saw Tristan standing there to welcome her.


    "Oh my God, Tristan, why did you come here?"


    Bella didn¡¯t expect to see him in her hotel room because when she flew here this morning, there was no slight clue that her husband would follow her and meet her today.


    "Dad? Is that Mom..." Dax¡¯s curious voice could be heard from inside. Making Bella even more surprised.


    "You also brought our son?" Bella widened her eyes, looking at Tristan, who now stifled a smile, looking lovingly at her.


    "Mrs. Sinclair, why do you look so shocked?" asked Tristan.


    Before Bella could answer, Tristan pulled her hand and embraced her tightly.


    "You didn¡¯t like that we¡¯re here?" he asked, closing the room door.

 Chapter 403: Dax’s Plea

    Bella looked up to meet his gaze.


    "Of course, I¡¯m happy because I wished you and Dax would be here, but I didn¡¯t expect you guys to fly here." She said while narrowing her eyes on him.


    Tristan loosened his embrace and gently pinched her blushing cheeks, "My pretty wife, have you ever heard the word ¡¯SURPRISE?¡¯"


    Bella frowned slightly, wondering, ¡¯Why did he suddenly ask me about that?¡¯


    "Well, this is a surprise event for you, dear. Alright, let¡¯s go inside," Tristan said, trying to distract her. He led her to the living room to join their son.


    "Mom, don¡¯t scold Dad, please. I¡¯m the one who gave him the idea to fly here to surprise you," Daxton said, trying to help his father when he saw his mother seem angry at him.


    Looking at how adorable her son was, standing from his seat while his eyes beamed looking at her, Bella instantly forgot her annoyance because Tristan came without notice.


    She released Tristan¡¯s hand and rushed to approach Dax.


    "Baby, I didn¡¯t scold your daddy. I¡¯m only talking casually to him," she said while squeezing her not-so-chubby son¡¯s cheeks.


    After Bella hugged her son, she continued showering him with a kiss on his cheeks before finally sitting beside him.


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide her excitement at their presence. The fatigue she felt after a day of confronting her father, uncle, and several corrupt directors in the Donovan Group slowly faded away, and her mind and heart relaxed again.


    "Really, mom!? But why did I see your eyebrows wrinkled!?"


    Bella raised her hand and touched her eyebrows. Smiling, she explained, "I¡¯m not angry. Instead... Mom, so glad to see you and your Dad here..."


    Despite her explanation, her son still doubted her. Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh inwardly.


    "I wanted to ask you and your Daddy to accompany me, but I worried your Dad would miss work again. He¡¯s been off for a week to accompany us at the hospital. I¡¯m afraid your Dad¡¯s boss will scold him if he asks for another day off..." She said randomly while glancing teasingly at Tristan.


    Bella smiled at him, amused by his expression; Tristan shook his head as if he disagreed with her words.


    "My dear wife, you should start accepting the reality that your hubby owns the company, and no one dares to scold him."


    Bella said nothing but grinned before leaning closer to her son, who was now focused on his iPad, playing a coding game Max assigned him to solve.


    "And your husband can work from wherever he wants, so you don¡¯t have to worry about that," Tristan continued, causing Bella to shift her gaze to him.


    She narrowed her eyes on him and asked, "So, are you done with your work, Mr. Sinclair?"


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. I¡¯ve just finished my meeting before you arrived. And now I feel hungry. It looks like we need to go out to find some good food. Can you show us a good place to eat in this city?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t ask his staff to prepare dinner because he wanted to date his wife in her hometown. This was his first time in this city with her.


    Bella was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s words. She sat up straight to check her watch. It was indeed almost dinner time.


    She didn¡¯t have a plan to go out tonight. Earlier, she had planned to soak in the bathtub, relax her mind, and order room service from the restaurant while gossiping with Harper all night.


    "Tristan, I will call Harper first. I need to cancel my plan with her," she said while taking out her cell phone.


    "You don¡¯t have to call her," he said. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella¡¯s hand paused mid-air before she pressed Harper¡¯s number.


    "Sorry to say, but your friend might now have fine dining in the restaurant with Dylan and a few of my staff," Tristan explained. He had already arranged for Bella¡¯s friends to enjoy fine dining. He didn¡¯t want her friends to bother them.


    Bella remained silent but shook her head in disbelief. She was astonished by Tristan¡¯s ability to always be two steps ahead of her.


    Dax¡¯s pleading voice suddenly interrupted them when they gazed lovingly at each other.


    "Dad, can I skip dinner outside with you and Mom? I made plans to meet Uncle Gael. Please, Dad, I don¡¯t get to see him in person much. I¡¯m worried I will miss seeing Uncle Gael if he returns to Fort City tomorrow..."


    Bella frowned. She was surprised to hear that Stefan had also come to the city. How could that be?


    "Baby, Uncle Gael didn¡¯t come with me. He¡¯s still in the capital," Bella clarified.


    "Mom, Uncle Gael is staying in the room next door," Dax explained. "He came with us, and Uncle Gael already promised to play with me after dinner."


    Bella was stunned to hear that.


    ¡¯Since when was Stefan so close to Tristan? He¡¯s even flying with them without saying anything to me?¡¯ Bella wondered, narrowing her eyes at Tristan. But later, she realized something.


    She shifted her gaze to Dax again, asking, "Baby, did you ask Uncle Gael to come here?"


    Dax innocently nodded his head.


    "Yes, mom. I thought it would be fun to meet and play with him again. When I asked him if he had time to fly to East City and visit you, he agreed immediately."


    Bella, "..."


    "Mommy, are you mad at me because I asked Uncle Gael to visit you?" Dax asked worriedly.


    Bella was speechless. She ruffled his silky hair.


    "Of course not, baby. How could Mom be angry with you? Okay, you can play with Uncle Gael after dinner. You don¡¯t need to follow Mom and Dad to eat out..."


    Bella didn¡¯t dare bring her son outside, or someone would secretly photograph them.


    "Thank you, Mom." Dax smiled at her before turning his gaze to his father. "Dad, have fun on your date."


    "Thank you, buddy! I will buy a lot of ice cream for you."


    Bella smiled at Dax, but inwardly, she couldn¡¯t help but vent her anger to Stefan because he had not informed her about his arrival in this city.

 Chapter 404: Their First Date

    Bella and Tristan left the hotel not long after.


    Tonight, Tristan deliberately didn¡¯t bring a driver or bodyguard, as usual, because he wanted to spend his night with Bella alone.


    However, Bella felt worried when she saw him driving in the middle of a busy road. They were driving alongside office workers returning home, and the street looked busy.


    She glanced at him several times, wanting to express her worries, but failed. A few more minutes passed, and they finally stopped at the traffic light.


    "Hubby, you should have used a driver," Bella said, glancing at him concerned. "The roads are still buzzing with cars; I thought we would encounter traffic ahead."


    "It¡¯s fine," Tristan said, glancing at her while fixing her hair. He smiled lovingly at her.


    He continued, "I want to spend this night with you¡ªjust the two of us. Besides, this is my first time driving you in this city. I want to create new memories for you to cherish." Then his hand slowly slipped down to caress her cheek gently.


    Bella said nothing but smiled as she felt her heart swell. But it didn¡¯t take long before she thought bitterly when memories of their early married days danced in her mind. Her husband had never once come to this city with her.


    ¡¯Come on, Bella, stop remembering those sad parts of your life. Cherish the memories now. Just think the old Tristan already died long ago.¡¯ She tried to cheer herself up, putting aside her bitter memories.


    "What do you want to eat?" She asked, trying to distract her mind.


    "Whatever you like, dear..." Tristan playfully answered her. "I will be your driver tonight, Ma¡¯am. You are free to order me around."


    Bella chuckled. She was confused about choosing the place to eat. Even though East City was her home base, she didn¡¯t have many memories of this place.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Sinclair, but I¡¯m also unfamiliar with this city. I didn¡¯t spend my youth here. I don¡¯t know many good places to eat or hang out," she said, looking out the window.


    She watched the streets grow busier, with many cars passing and people walking on the sidewalks. This was unfamiliar to her, as she rarely encountered traffic after moving to a remote area in northern Sweden.


    And their house in the capital wasn¡¯t situated along busy streets like these.


    The car moved again, and Tristan focused on driving as Bella tried to recall enjoyable places to visit in the city.


    Before long, their car reached Riverside.


    Bella remembers enjoying visiting Riverside when she was little. This river reminded her of the Hangang River in Seoul, which she often saw in Korean dramas that she recently watched with her mother and Aunty Noora.


    "Tristan, let¡¯s spend some time at Riverside. We can stroll in the park and grab a bite to eat at one of the food stalls or restaurants there," Bella suggested but hesitated when she remembered it was a public place and worried they might be recognized.


    "Of course, dear," Tristan replied. He promptly changed direction and soon parked near the river in the public parking area.


    "Let¡¯s go!" said Tristan, excited to see a public place he had never visited. However, he was confused when he saw Bella, seeming reluctant to step out.


    "Hubby, do you have a cap?" Bella asked while looking around. She could spot a few people walking in the park. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "A cap!?" Tristan asked, confused. "I think there¡¯s no cap in this car. Why are you suddenly asking? Do you want to wear a cap!?"


    When he saw her shake her head, Tristan became even more confused.


    "Wife, it looks like something out there is stealing your attention. What is it?" he asked.


    Bella tore her gaze away from outside and turned to see him, but she was stunned when she saw Tristan lean closer to her, his line of sight focusing outside.


    She didn¡¯t answer him; instead, she asked him to wait. "Please wait in the car. I¡¯ll be right back," she said before opening the door.


    Tristan furrowed his brow when he heard her order.


    Before he could ask for an explanation, Bella exited the car. She walked toward the row of stands selling various items a few meters from the parking lot.


    "What is she doing?" he muttered softly. Soon, a faint smile graced his lips as he realized what his wife was doing.


    Suddenly, something crossed Tristan¡¯s mind. He immediately took his cell phone and sent several short messages to Dylan.


    "Well, my wife, it¡¯s about time," Tristan felt a thrill as he turned his gaze back at her.


    His smile widened when he saw her walk back to the car and later give him a black baseball cap.


    "Do you want me to wear this?"


    "Yes, I don¡¯t want anyone to recognize you. I¡¯m worried someone might secretly take our picture and upload it on social media and the internet," Bella responded while wearing the baseball cap to hide her face.


    Even though she knew no one would recognize her, she didn¡¯t want to wake up in the morning and find her face appearing on any gossip news portal.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, but he found it amusing to see her worry. He smiled while wearing a baseball cap as they walked hand in hand along the river away from the parking lot.


    The temperature around the river was quite pleasant, and not many people walked with them there, which lessened Bella¡¯s worry. She tried to enjoy their intimacy in a public space, which made her heart race again, and she liked it so much.


    "Why are you worried someone might know about our relationship and publish it? Are you still not allowing me to announce it?" he asked casually.


    She looked up to meet his gaze and was surprised to see his gloomy expression.


    "Hubby, I..." Somehow, Bella couldn¡¯t bring herself to answer him. She didn¡¯t know, but she was still uncomfortable if anyone knew they were married.

 Chapter 405: Let’s Restart Talking About Our Past

    Tristan smiled faintly when he saw her reluctance to answer.


    "Maybe you forgot, but you promised me you would agree to announce our relationship once your matter with your father and family was resolved. And I think it has been resolved. Right?"


    "Mmm. I haven¡¯t forgotten about it. I still remember my promise crystal clear," Bella responded.


    "Uh, I¡¯m glad to know that, but..." Tristan said. He squeezed her hand gently and immediately stopped, causing Bella to halt her steps as well.


    They both faced each other while locking their gaze. She waited for him to continue his words.


    "We should announce our marriage to the public, Bella. I don¡¯t want to hide our relationship anymore. I don¡¯t want to hide my love for you from the public much longer," Tristan expressed earnestly. "Your family matter is already resolved; you don¡¯t have to worry about anything else, right?" He tried to convince her.


    Bella felt tension inwardly when she heard Tristan ask to announce their relationship. She knew this would happen sooner or later but still felt nervous.


    "Why are you so rushed to announce it? I feel quite happy with our life now without explaining our status to anyone."


    "Because my jealousy grew stronger. Well, you can¡¯t blame me. This is because you are so pretty and adorable; I¡¯m worried someone might steal you from me."


    "Pft!" Bella stifled a laugh hearing his cheesy lines again. "Oh, please, Mr. Sinclair. No man out there would like a mother plus one."


    Tristan fixed her baseball cap before responding, "My pretty wife, even if you are a mom plus ten, still, many men would adore you and queue to get your attention."


    Bella was at a loss for words. She narrowed her eyes on him before saying, "Alright, you can announce it¡­" She had no choice but to agree.


    "Thank you," Tristan said, pulling her into his arms and resting his chin on her head. His broad smile couldn¡¯t hide how happy he was.


    He whispered lovingly, "I will announce it naturally; you don¡¯t have to feel nervous."


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything but smiled, hearing how excited he was. She wanted to tease him, but her growl surprised them both.


    "I¡¯m sorry, my dear wife, for making you hungry," Tristan said, releasing his embrace to meet her eyes. "Let¡¯s go," he said, and they continued to walk to the nearest restaurant.


    "Tristan, have you visited a place like this?" She glanced and looked up to meet his gaze.


    "This is my first time visiting a place like this in our country. But I have eaten in public places like this several times in several countries," he tightened his hand on her. "Why, do you ask?"


    Bella already guessed it. Tristan had never visited this kind of place in their country. It¡¯s amusing now because he is willing to accompany her.


    "I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re not used to it and feel uncomfortable."


    Tristan smiled while placing his hand on her shoulder and pulling her close.


    "As long as my beautiful wife is with me, I will feel comfortable wherever she takes me."


    Hearing his flirty words, she felt like a butterfly fluttered inside her. Bella shook her head while walking ahead, leaving Tristan behind. He chuckled while running after her.


    Before long, Bella finally spotted a famous burger chain restaurant near their place.


    She suggested, "Let¡¯s eat grilled burgers. That place looks clean and new, with few people around."


    "Grilled burgers? Sure!"


    "Hubby, have you eaten this kind of food?" Bella asked. She worried he had never eaten this cheap burger from an ordinary fast food chain.


    "Of course I have! Well, it looks like you never checked my business kingdom. Food and beverages are among them," Tristan said.


    Bella frowned, hearing his ambiguous words. But a few seconds later, she realized what he was trying to say.


    "No way! Is this fast-food chain under your company?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her; he only flashed a meaningful smile and entered the restaurant.


    Not long after, the two of them sat near the glass wall facing the river. Their table was full of burgers, fries, and sodas.


    While enjoying their dinner, they talked about many things. One topic Tristan was now curious about was her youthful life. When he was an ungrateful snob husband in their first years as a couple, he knew little about it and never cared about it. Now, he wanted a new start.


    "Wife, I know I have been selfish and never cared about you in the past. So, let¡¯s restart, agree? Let¡¯s begin with your story in this city. You said you didn¡¯t spend much time in this city?"


    "Wow, Mr. Sinclair, how nice and thoughtful of you. Agree! Yes, I spent most of my youth in the capital. You know I went to high school and studied there, right?"


    "Hmm, yeah. That I know."


    "I only spent my adult life in this city briefly. And every school holiday, I prefer to spend my vacation at Old Donovan Lake House, my grandfather¡¯s house, in Lake Village. Mostly exiled myself from the crowd. So I don¡¯t have many happy memories in this place."


    "Uh, I see," Tristan was quite surprised to know about it.


    "Okay, now your turn. How about you? What¡¯s your story?" Bella asked.


    "Well, since elementary and middle school, I have been in a private school. And just like you, I also spent time abroad. I only returned when I finished college and finally started to work and took over the Sinclair Group..."


    Bella nods; she is well aware of it. In fact, she remembered when she asked, and Tristan had answered it indifferently. Bella was glad how much change Tristan had been with his answers and attention. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We are a bit different, you and I; after completing my master¡¯s degree, I didn¡¯t immediately return to our country. I spent a year living in New York, where I was busy establishing a business," Bella explained.


    "So, did you meet Harper and the others there?"


    "Yes, we all attended the same college for our master¡¯s degrees. During that time, Jack and Harper approached me and asked me to join them in building the RDF Group."


    Bella smiled as she remembered when two wealthy kids from New York had invited her to become the founder of their company.


    "They have been very kind to you, Bella. If you don¡¯t mind sharing, how much money did you invest to become one of the founders of RDF Group?" Tristan asked. He was curious because he knew Bella didn¡¯t have family support to invest in RDF.


    "No, not a single cent. They gave me a share without me investing money. They thought my skills were essential to the company. As their token of appreciation, they gave me substantial shares," Bella said proudly.


    Tristan is increasingly proud and amazed by his wife. But that¡¯s not all he felt. He also felt regret, knowing how much opportunity he lost when he ignored Bella and her potential for his business empire. They both continued to talk until they finished all their food.


    ...


    After dinner, they strolled by the river like any other couple in the park. They talked, hugged, and kissed when no one could see them.


    Bella felt like she was back in her early teenage years.


    Even though she didn¡¯t have a boyfriend then, she always dreamed of having one.


    When Bella met Tristan for the first time, she felt the same way¡ªmadly in love¡ªbut Tristan¡¯s response was not as she had dreamed. He just plainly okayed her feelings and acted indifferently.


    Now, Tristan has changed for the better. He responded precisely as a teenage Bella dreamed, and she felt blissful...

 Chapter 406: She No Longer A Threat

    A few hours before, at Fort City.


    In one of the Class 1 prisons on the border of Fort City and East City, Laura Kiels felt reluctant to leave her cell and head towards the dining room. If she could choose, it would be better to skip today¡¯s dinner. Unfortunately, it¡¯s a jail, and she no longer has the freedom to choose anything here.


    This was her third time having dinner in this damned place since being transferred from the police detention center.


    While detained to wait for her trial, Laura realized it would be tough. Still, unlike the Police Detention Center, Laura didn¡¯t like this prison. Her cellmates had tortured her since she arrived. She asked the officer several times to be relocated to another cell, but they refused.


    Now, she had no choice but to endure it while hoping her trial could be expedited in two weeks.


    Laura Kiels struggled to avoid drawing attention from other prisoners, as her face was well-known in the facility.


    She kept her head down while walking and focused on a table in the corner.


    However, she heard someone faintly call her name, "Laura, over here. Come, sit with us!"


    The familiar voice sent a shiver down her spine, bringing back the trauma she had experienced since arriving in this place.


    She stopped and looked toward her five roommates sitting not far from her, waving and inviting her to join them.


    Laura clutched her food tray tightly as she walked toward them, her teeth gritted. She maintained her smile though she cursed them all in her heart.


    "Pretty Laura, why aren¡¯t you eating much?" one of the women with a black rose tattoo on her wrist asked in a caring tone.


    "I¡¯m still full, sister," Laura answered weakly. She lowered her head and began to eat her corn soup and bread.


    "Oh dear, you look so thin. Come, eat some more," the woman said, pouring more soup into her bowl and placing another piece of bread on top. This caused Laura to halt and look up at the woman beside her.


    Laura felt the urge to scold the woman for being rude. Still, when she saw her overbearing smile and intimidating gaze, she felt as if the woman was silently warning her, "Refuse me, and you will be cleaning the toilet all night!"


    Laura said nothing and forced a smile in response. She lowered her head and continued to eat.


    Soon, dinner ended, and they all returned to their not-so-big room. The room had six neatly arranged beds, no air conditioner to cool the summer heat, and only a fan hanging from the three-meter ceiling.


    Laura had a bed in the corner opposite the small bathroom. She struggled to sleep at night when all her roommates were asleep. The dimly lit room made it difficult for her to relax.


    Before long, she felt her heart beating faster than usual, and her mind couldn¡¯t stop racing.


    ¡¯Why do I feel like this?¡¯ Laura Kiels mumbled while slowly taking a deep breath, trying to calm her heartbeat. She dared not move, worried the other women would scold her again. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She just lay there in silence, trying to close her eyes.


    However, Laura felt her heartbeat continue to beat faster, and her breathing was getting shallower. Her hands squeezed her clothes while trying to catch fresh air to fill her stuffy heart, but still, she felt suffocated.


    "Help... Help..." Laura Kiels tried to shout, but shockingly, she couldn¡¯t make any sounds. She felt as if all her words were stuck in her throat.


    "Please help..." she shouted again, trying to wake up. However, she was frightened when she realized she couldn¡¯t move her hand.


    ¡¯What is happening? Why do I feel like I suddenly had a stroke? No... this is just a dream. Or it¡¯s a nightmare? NOOO¡­¡¯


    Laura tried to force herself to wake up, but she failed.


    Everything happened so fast that all she could see was darkness. Slowly, the fan whirring on the ceiling could no longer be heard.


    ***


    A few hours later,


    Marco was seated on a single sofa in a dimly lit room somewhere in Fort City, in a grand villa at the city border, surrounded by tall pine trees.


    As he listened to his men¡¯s reports, a satisfied smile appeared on his lips. He tapped the iPad screen with his index finger, producing tense sounds.


    ¡¯That woman will die tonight,¡¯ Marco thought.


    He didn¡¯t rush to respond; instead, he gazed away from his men and stared at the lonely moon in the dark sky. Now that he knew Laura Kiels was no longer a threat to him, he pondered his next move.


    After a few more minutes, Marco gazed at the two men across from him.


    His calm expression still graced his handsome face as he asked, "Did you guys clean up your tracks neatly?"


    Marco didn¡¯t want the police or whoever investigated the case to trace him.


    "No worries! No one will be able to trace it back to us. The person we ask to do it¡­already sleeping with the fish."


    "Good!" Marco said while looking at his iPad screen again.


    Marco¡¯s blissful smile vanished, replaced by a curious expression.


    His gaze was fixed on a photo of a beautiful woman with long black hair. Her cold smile and clear gray eyes seemed to be gazing right at him, causing his heart to flutter.


    ¡¯You look interesting, Arabella Donovan,¡¯ Marco murmured under his breath, running his finger across her delicate nose and slowly down to her cherry lips. The sight of her alluring lips piqued his curiosity.


    After satisfyingly gazing at the picture, he lifted his head and narrowed his eyes on Billy. "I want you to start uncovering Arabella Donovan¡¯s real life and identity."


    "Master, we searched the internet but found nothing else about her except her name and workplace. She keeps everything else of her life out of the public¡¯s eye and nothing on her social media," Billy answered.


    "I know. That¡¯s why you must use our important intelligent resources to investigate her. Moreover, I believe the information you guys got over the internet was fake," Marco responded, looking sharply at them.


    "What? Master, do you really want us to call that person!? It¡¯s a real big thing resorting to that guy¡¯s help, master!" one of the men asked, shocked.


    "Yes! Closing into Arabella Donovan is the most crucial thing for me now. Call and ask him to investigate Arabella Donovan in detail. I want to hear about her faster," Marco commanded.


    "Yes, master..."


    "And one more thing! This woman is not as simple as you see her on the surface; you must be careful. Never let her realize we are watching her and digging for information about her!" said Marco with a sinister smile before he dismissed them.

 Chapter 407: Another Shocking News

    Next Day.


    In Stefan¡¯s hotel room, he almost spat out his coffee when he read the shocking news on his laptop.


    [Former Actress Laura Kiels Dies in Prison]


    He started to read the news:


    "The cause of death is still under investigation. The police are still interrogating possible witnesses and conducting the autopsy on the former artist¡¯s body¡­"


    After reading the news for a few more seconds, his eyebrows furrowed. He started to feel confused and suspicious about the news narrative.


    "Why is she suddenly dead!? Is it natural? Not possible!"


    Stefan¡¯s suspicions grew stronger when he read similar news across the news portal.


    Unable to hold back any longer, Stefan did more research to answer his suspicions.


    He quickly typed on the keyboard, searching for Laura Kiels¡¯ cause of death in the police investigation and hospital report.


    It didn¡¯t take long for him to find the information he was looking for: the forensic doctor who conducted the autopsy had declared the cause of death as Myocardial Infarction, or as ordinary people call it, a fatal heart attack.


    Stefan¡¯s eyes were fixed on the words "Myocardial Infarction."


    "Since when did Laura Kiels suffer heart disease?" he mumbled to himself while scratching his head.


    He couldn¡¯t believe the officer¡¯s report; he needed to read the company document to confirm his confusion.


    Before long, Stefan opened the unique apps on his laptop, and soon, a private chat appeared.


    [Stefan] Good morning, Sis. Are you awake? Ugh, well, check the link below.


    [Stefan] URL link


    A few minutes later, Stefan received a shocked expression from Bella.


    [Bella] Since when does Laura Kiels have heart disease?


    He typed faster and sent:


    [Stefan] I know, right? I just traced her medical check-up record in our company database; she is healthy. I didn¡¯t find any report indicating she had heart disease in her recent medical check-up result.


    "This is not a simple death!" Stefan shook his head as he continued to read A-Netz¡¯s comments on every article. Almost everyone was also shocked by Laura Kiels¡¯ sudden death.


    Only a few days after the police transferred Laura Kiels from the police station detention center to the class 1 prison, while waiting for her trial, this woman suddenly died.


    Stefan typed another text to Bella, but his hand stopped when he heard the doorbell ring.


    After checking the corridor CCTV on his other laptop, Stefan immediately stood from his seat and headed to the door.


    Stefan saw Bella standing at his door, looking confused. He opened the door wide and allowed her to enter his room.


    "Sis, you are also suspicious about her death, right?" Stefan asked as he followed Bella into his room and headed to the seating area.


    After settling on a single sofa, Bella nodded at Stefan, "I know, right? How could a healthy woman like her suddenly die?" she shook her head.


    Bella found it difficult to believe.


    "Do you know what illness caused her death?" She asked.


    Bella knew the health conditions of the artists under the Stellar Entertainment company very well because they regularly undergo medical check-ups every six months. And she still remembered the latest information she had read about Laura Kiels.


    Stefan nodded before replying, "Heart attack!"


    "Heart attack?" Bella repeated Stefan¡¯s words. She had never read any report about Laura Kiels having heart disease. "Since when did she have a heart attack?"


    "That¡¯s my question, too, sis. I also felt confused when I read the unreleased info causing her death." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella¡¯s forehead furrowed, lost in thought about Laura¡¯s sudden death.


    After several minutes and seeing Bella still lost in her thoughts, Stefan asked again, "Sister, do you want to investigate her death? I could do something to find out what happened to her," he offered.


    "Yes, please. If you find anything suspicious, please report it to me immediately," Bella agreed. Even though Stellar Entertainment no longer had anything to do with Laura Kiels¡¯ case, she was still curious and couldn¡¯t ignore it.


    "Okay," Stefan said.


    ...


    Bella didn¡¯t stay long in Stefan¡¯s room because she had to prepare for the Donovan Group. She would spend the whole day taking care of the company.


    Today, there will be a meeting with the new CEO. Another agenda is to form new management, hoping to settle the Donovan Group matter.


    She won¡¯t stay any more days here and plans to return to the capital tonight.


    However, Bella¡¯s steps stopped before she passed the door when something crossed her mind. She turned to see Stefan behind her.


    Her eyes sharpened at him as she scolded him through her gaze.


    "Why didn¡¯t you tell me you traveled here with Tristan and Dax?"


    Stefan¡¯s face suddenly stiffened. He was confused about how to respond to her.


    He chuckled, scratched his head, and grinned.


    "Sorry. Pretty sister, don¡¯t be angry with me. I just couldn¡¯t refuse Dax¡¯s request. When he calls me and asks me to join his trips to visit you... Of course, I agree right away," he explained.


    "I¡¯m not angry, but I feel you are starting to side with my son and husband." Bella took a deep sigh before she continued. "Well, at least warn me about their surprise."


    He nodded right away, "Sure, sister... This is the first and the last." He raised his hand to make a V sign, to promise her.


    Bella said nothing but faintly smiled at him before she returned to her room.


    However, before she enters her room, someone calls her.


    "Boss, please wait," Sam¡¯s voice could be heard from the end of the corridor, halting her step.


    Bella saw Sam and Leo approaching her with worried and tense expressions. She frowned while waiting for them to come closer.


    "Why do you guys look so tense?"


    "Laura Kiels died!" Leo said.


    "I know. I have just talked about it with Stefan. Are you guys also suspicious about her death?"


    "Yes," Sam responded. "I could tell someone killed her." He whispered.


    Bella looked at them in return, "Yes, I also assumed someone tried to silence her. But you guys don¡¯t discuss this matter. Let Stefan investigate this matter before we talk about it again."


    "Agree!" Leo answered.


    "Sure, boss."


    They talked briefly about today¡¯s schedule before Bella finally entered her bedroom. She had already left her room quite long, afraid Tristan would worry.

 Chapter 408: Let’s Tell Your Father About Us

    "Someone is looking for you¡­"


    Bella was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s voice from the door. She turned off the hairdryer, placed it on the vanity table, and looked at him.


    "Who?" Bella asked as she stood up and approached him.


    "It¡¯s¡­" Tristan answered with a pause. "Your father."


    Bella was shocked to hear that and almost tripped over her own feet.


    "My father? What? Why did he come here? Where is he?" she hastily asked before continuing her step, wanting to make sure her father didn¡¯t see Dax. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I wish I could answer you. But your father is still in the lobby. And I won¡¯t let him in if you don¡¯t want to see him."


    Bella felt relieved to hear that. Her panicked expression slowly faded. Standing right before Tristan, she asked in her slightly calm tone, "Did he know about you? Is that why he came?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to answer her; instead, he placed his hand on her waist and pulled her close to him¡ªso close that their bodies pressed against each other. He could feel Bella¡¯s curves and the tension she felt. He stopped himself to tease her, knowing this was not the time and place to get intimate.


    She looked up to see him frowning, causing her to mirror his expression, waiting for him to answer.


    "No, I guess your father doesn¡¯t know about me yet," Tristan said, recalling their conversation from last night. Bella had informed him that Lucas Donovan had changed a lot.


    "Thank goodness," Bella said, feeling relieved. After talking with her father yesterday, she decided not to inform him about Tristan and Dax because she was worried that her father would change again and become greedy like before.


    Tristan¡¯s frown was replaced by a smile when he finally saw her smile.


    "My dear wife, I think you should let him know about us."


    Bella was surprised to hear that.


    "Huh!? Why do you think that?" She hadn¡¯t planned to tell her father about her relationship with Tristan.


    "Let him suffer a little longer."


    "Su-Suffer a little longer?" She asked haltingly, with an unmistakable frown now slowly appearing on her forehead.


    "Yes." Tristan gently stroked her cheek with his thumb before continuing, "Your father might even suffer more to know we are still married and have a son. He will surely become a hermit monk if he knows we are still married and even have a son."


    "Pft!" Bella almost burst out laughing when she heard Tristan still remember what she told him last night. She didn¡¯t expect her husband to have a plan that was even crueler than hers.


    "What? Why are you smiling? You disagreed?"


    Bella shook her head.


    "What does shaking your head mean? Do you mean you agree or not?" he asked, confused.


    "Hubby, I agree!"


    Bella decides to stop worrying so much about her father. If her father returns to his old self, she doesn¡¯t care and will not be afraid because she will use her privilege as Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife.


    Later,


    Bella and Tristan were sitting in the living room. She appeared tense, especially knowing her father was heading to their presidential suite.


    She couldn¡¯t explain why, but she was feeling extremely nervous. Her eyes remained fixed on the direction of the door. When Tristan asked her something, she didn¡¯t respond, as her mind was busy with her father¡¯s impending arrival.


    Tristan smiled and took her hand. When he caught her looking at him, he said, "Darling, relax. Why are you so worried? There¡¯s nothing to worry about. Everything will be fine."


    Bella smiled at his words. Tristan was correct; there was nothing to worry about.


    "Hah!! You¡¯re right..." Bella said while sandwiching her face with her palm.


    "If you are still nervous, just think he is one of your uncles," Tristan said, trying to help her relax and remind her of what she did yesterday.


    "Hmm. Oh, right, where¡¯s Dax?" Bella asked. She was too distracted by her father, causing her to forget about her son.


    "Our son is waiting in his room. He will join us when I ask him to come out." Tristan briefly explained his plan.


    Bella was utterly stunned. How could they come up with such an idea? She was impressed.


    "Oh dear, don¡¯t look at me like that. We only wanted to help you," Tristan stroked her back lovingly. Bella didn¡¯t know how to respond; she could only smile at him.


    Tristan leaned closer to kiss her lips, but the doorbell rang before his lips touched hers. He slowly pulled his face away while turning his gaze toward the door.


    "Dear, you stay here. I will open the door."


    "Ooo..."


    ***


    Standing in front of the presidential suite, Lucas Donovan clenches his hand tightly, utterly nervous.


    Lucas isn¡¯t nervous because he wants to meet Bella but because he is apprehensive about his daughter staying in a hotel owned by the Sinclair family.


    Since last night, he has tried calling Bella but found out she is still blocking his phone.


    Left with no choice, Lucas decided to come here to ensure she was alright. But, arriving at this hotel, his mind started to fill with countless questions:


    ¡¯What was she thinking? What if Tristan also stays in this hotel? Or what happens if her ex-in-laws find out about it? They will trouble her, right?¡¯


    Lucas plans to ask Bella to move to his father¡¯s or Emma¡¯s house now, as he can¡¯t let her stay here for too long. He clenched, looking at the door while trying to calm his heart and mind.


    However, Lucas Donovan was taken aback when he saw the person standing before him.


    "Sorry, young man. I think I¡¯m in the wrong room," Lucas said hurriedly, pretending not to recognize Tristan. He quickly changed direction and left, hoping Tristan wouldn¡¯t realize who he was.


    "Mr. Lucas Donovan..."


    Lucas stopped when he heard Tristan¡¯s voice calling out his name. He couldn¡¯t believe Tristan still remembered him.


    "Y-You...You... still recognize me!?" Lucas asked, finding it hard to believe how someone like Tristan Sinclair still remembers him.

 Chapter 409: Lucas Donovan Knows About Tristan Sinclair

    "Y-You... You... still recognize me, Mr. Sinclair?" Lucas asked, finding it hard to believe that someone like Tristan Sinclair still remembered him. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of course, I remember you," Tristan said, suppressing a laugh at his father-in-law¡¯s shocked expression. "And you¡¯re not in the wrong room, Mr. Donovan. Please come in. Your daughter, Bella, is waiting for you inside."


    Lucas¡¯s frown deepened upon hearing Bella¡¯s presence inside.


    ¡¯Why are they in the same room?¡¯ Lucas wondered, gathering the courage to meet Tristan¡¯s gaze. He wanted to ask, but his words betrayed him.


    "Sir, are you coming inside or...?" Tristan asked when he saw Lucas hadn¡¯t moved; he only stood in place, staring at him with a mixed expression.


    "Yes... Yes..." Lucas quickly walked in, dragging his heavy and trembling legs while telling himself to calm down.


    ¡¯No need to be afraid, Lucas. Tristan Sinclair wouldn¡¯t do anything to harm you. He just brought you into this room to ask about Bella...¡¯


    Lucas still doubted he would see Bella in this room. Maybe Tristan was surprised to see him here looking for Bella, and it awakened Tristan¡¯s curiosity about his daughter.


    However, the moment Lucas entered the living room, he felt like his entire muscles betrayed him; he couldn¡¯t move when he saw his daughter, Bella, sitting on the sofa and looking at him with a calm smile.


    "Be-Bella... you... why are you here with Mr. Tristan Sinclair?" Lucas asked.


    Lucas felt another blow when he saw Tristan sitting beside his daughter. He blinked several times, looking at both of them as if trying to ensure what he saw was real.


    ¡¯Why do they look so close? Tristan even holds Bella¡¯s hand and looks at her lovingly. What on earth is this? Why are they still together?¡¯ Lucas wondered, utterly confused by the situation unfolding before his eyes.


    Bella held her laughter when she saw her father panicked and bewildered.


    "Father, why are you surprised to see us?" Bella casually asked. When Lucas tried to say something, she continued, "The man beside me is Tristan Sinclair. He is my husband..."


    Lucas was stunned. He now fully believed he was dreaming. He had always imagined this; his daughter was still married to Tristan Sinclair.


    "Father, are you alright?" Bella raised her voice. She had asked her father to sit a few times, but he hadn¡¯t moved at all. Looking at her father, who seemed like a cosplaying mannequin, Bella started to worry.


    Lucas snapped out of his thoughts when he faintly heard Bella¡¯s voice.


    He blinked a few times but still saw his daughter sitting beside Tristan. They were also still holding hands.


    ¡¯What the hell happened here? Is this real? Are they back together?¡¯ Lucas Donovan covered his gasp in disbelief.


    "Please sit down, Father!" Bella asked again.


    Lucas nodded as he hurriedly settled opposite Bella and Tristan. His gaze was still fixed on them as he tried to convince himself that this was real, not his imagination.


    However, even though he knew it was real, he was still confused.


    How could they become husband and wife again after what happened in the past?


    Lucas still remembered their divorce hitting their company¡¯s reputation so hard. When the Sinclair Group abruptly terminated its business cooperation with the Donovan Group, ninety percent of its projects stopped.


    The Donovan Group suffered greatly and barely managed to survive. To this day, the company has not regained its former glory.


    And now, these two look so close again, as if they are still married. It¡¯s hard for him to believe it.


    "Bella, when did you remarry to Mr. Sinclair? And if I may ask, why didn¡¯t you tell us you remarried? I mean, I¡­" Lucas asked when Tristan¡¯s calm but firm voice suddenly stopped Lucas¡¯s words.


    "Mr. Donovan, I¡¯m sorry to interrupt you. Bella and I never got divorced," replied Tristan.


    "Still married? Wait... have I lost my memory, or am I dreaming?" Lucas said, pinching his forehead. When he felt the ache, he narrowed his eyes on them.


    "Weren¡¯t you two divorced five years ago? I mean, I clearly remembered Bella was separated from you. Or am I wrong?" he asked, confused.


    "Indeed. But we never finalized the divorce. I¡­never submitted the divorce papers. Sorry, Father. I can¡¯t explain the reason. But we are real; the man beside me is Tristan Sinclair, my lawful husband," Bella explained.


    "What? Owh, you are not kidding, right?" Lucas still thought this was all a joke. When he saw they both remained silent, he continued,


    "Alright, I¡¯m sorry. I believe you. But would you mind explaining what happened in the last five years? Why did your family suddenly say you were both divorced? They even cut a business cooperation we already signed!?" Lucas Donovan¡¯s eyes fixed on Tristan.


    Tristan exchanged glances with Bella for a moment. He wanted to explain to Lucas what happened in the past, but when he saw Bella reluctant to do so, he took his cell phone and texted Dax to come out. He needed to distract Lucas Donovan to stop him from asking further questions.


    "Hahaha, I know you guys are kidding. There¡¯s no way you¡¯re still married because¡ª" Lucas Donovan¡¯s sentence stopped when he heard a child¡¯s voice from behind him. He turned to look and froze.


    "Dad, Mom..." Dax walked toward his parents with tiny steps, occasionally glancing at the old man before them.


    "Dax..." Bella¡¯s eyes beamed. Her smile grew wider as she pulled her son to sit between her and Tristan.


    "Dax, this is my father, your grandpa¡ª"


    "Grandpa Lucas?"


    "Hmm," Bella felt amused, looking at her son acting. He seemed so natural.


    "Oh, I heard a lot about Grandpa Lucas from Grandma," Dax said in his adorable voice as he looked at Lucas again. "Hello, I¡¯m Daxton Donovan Sinclair," he greeted Lucas politely. "It¡¯s nice to meet you, Grandpa Lucas."


    Lucas¡¯s hand trembled; he was utterly shocked.


    Seeing how handsome and innocent the little boy in front of him was enough to make his eyes sting, holding back his emotion upon realizing this little man before him was his grandson.

 Chapter 410: Selfish

    Instantly, countless questions danced in his mind.


    One by one, the questions that had been swirling in his mind since last night about the powerful and influential person who helped his daughter were answered. It was Tristan Sinclair.


    No wonder everything happens so fast.


    The Donovan Group suddenly faced bankruptcy. The mystery of why the Dawson Group was also in a similar situation to the Donovan Group¡ªalmost bankrupt¡ªwas that Tristan Sinclair was angry Bradley asked to marry Bella.


    Now, he has come to grasp why his father moved to the capital and lived with Bella: because of Daxton.


    Lucas couldn¡¯t help but vent his anger at himself for what he had done to his daughter. He tried to avoid his grandsons¡¯ and daughters¡¯ gazes because he couldn¡¯t bear to see them now. He felt like a fool. What a shame!


    ¡¯God, I really deserve to be punished. How could I blame Bella for everything that happened to the Donovan Group? How could I force her to marry Bradley when she still married Tristan?¡¯


    He put aside all his curiosity and anger. He needed to greet his Grandson properly. He turns to look at Dax with a happy but awkward smile.


    "Hi, Daxton," Lucas Donovan¡¯s voice trembled. "Just call me Grandpa."


    "Ok."


    "How old are you?"


    "In November, I will turn five," Daxton replied.


    At first, Lucas and Dax¡¯s conversation felt awkward. Still, they soon relaxed when Dax began chatting about his favorite activities.


    Bella and Tristan didn¡¯t say anything; they chatted on their phones.


    She asked Tristan to take Dax to another room because she had something important to discuss with her father.


    ***


    After Tristan took Dax to another room, Bella waited for her father to say something. But a few minutes passed, and her father still said nothing. He seemed lost in thought.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to speak to him; she let him collect his thoughts for a few more minutes.


    "Dad," Bella called. After seeing her father¡¯s gaze directed at her, she continued. "I hope you don¡¯t tell anyone about Tristan and Dax."


    Lucas Donovan faintly smiled while fixing his gaze on Bella.


    "I won¡¯t say anything about them to anyone. Don¡¯t worry," Lucas promised.


    Knowing his daughter was still married to a powerful man like Tristan Sinclair, and they even had a son, made him regret everything he did in the past.


    He felt ashamed appearing in front of her and felt like this meeting was a slap from God because he had refused his daughter¡¯s request the day before.


    "Thanks," Bella felt relieved. At least her greedy uncle wouldn¡¯t know about them until Tristan released the official announcement.


    They both fell silent again.


    Bella felt like she no longer had any topics to discuss with her father. Besides, she couldn¡¯t stay long because she had to leave for the Donovan Group soon.


    Looking at her father, who was still gazing out the window with a miserable expression, Bella felt sorry for him. However, as she remembered what had happened in the past, her sympathy for him slowly faded.


    Somehow, Bella still felt uncertain about witnessing this man change from what she remembered in the past: how he spoke, acted, and even his demeanor was utterly different. And what she saw now was still the same as the man she had met yesterday: calm and content.


    "Is there anything else you want to talk about?" Bella asked while glancing at her watch. She only had thirty minutes before she had to head to the Donovan Group. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas felt his eyes become blurry as he held his sadness within them. His hands on his lap were tightly clasped. He was too nervous to express what was on his mind right now.


    "I can¡¯t stay here long because I have to go to the office. So, you better speak now or leave..." Bella said.


    "Bella," Lucas immediately interrupted his daughter, worried she would leave when he had something important to ask her. "Can I talk to your mother?" Suddenly, he shivered when he saw Bella¡¯s expression slowly turn sour.


    "I¡¯m sorry to ask you this, Bella. But please, I need to talk to her before I can sign the divorce papers," Lucas continued.


    Bella was taken aback to hear that he was willing to sign. She narrowed her eyes, worried her father was trying to trick her.


    "I beg you, let me talk to her one last time, even if only for a moment, please," Lucas pleaded again.


    "What do you want to tell her? You can tell me," Bella responded curtly.


    "I want to apologize to her, and I want to do it myself. It¡¯s fine through the phone. Please, Bella, this is the first and the last time I ask you this."


    Bella gritted her teeth, hearing her father¡¯s words. Although she was happy that he finally agreed to sign the divorce papers, his request was not a simple request for her to answer. She was worried that her mother¡¯s trauma would reappear. She knew very well how hard her mother had to forget her father.


    "Alright, I will try asking her. But, if she refuses, do you promise to sign!?"


    Lucas had no choice.


    "Yes," He answered, but deep in his heart, he eagerly hoped that Natalie would accept his request.


    "Wait here!" Bella said. Before she left, she looked at her father again. "May I ask you something?"


    "Yes, of course..."


    "Why did you suddenly change your mind?"


    "All night, your words tortured me. That¡¯s the reason I decided to let her go."


    Bella was confused.


    "What words?" She didn¡¯t remember which words could make her father change his mind.


    "Selfish," Lucas smiled bitterly. "I don¡¯t want to be selfish toward you or your mother. That¡¯s why I decided¡ª"


    She said nothing but walked to the corner to make a call.


    Lucas¡¯ eyes did not leave his daughter.


    He wanted to see her expression, but Bella turned her back on him, tightening his heart. His hands were still tightly clenched, waiting for Natalie¡¯s decision.

 Chapter 411: Natalie, Please Forgive Me

    "Mom, my father wants to talk to you."


    Natalie took a deep sigh before she responded to Bella.


    "Did he trouble you?" Natalie starts to feel angry with Lucas. "Bella, if he refused, let it be. I don¡¯t care about my status with him. I¡¯ll be fine if he doesn¡¯t force me to return there."


    "No, Mom. Dad didn¡¯t trouble me. He has actually changed a lot. Since yesterday, I¡¯ve felt like I met someone else; he looks so different."


    "What do you mean he has changed a lot?" Natalie asked, confused. "A monster will never change, Bella. What you see is probably just his mask."


    "Mom, I know. But he has indeed changed," Bella said. She knew it was impossible to change someone¡¯s attitude, at least not quickly or even in the blink of an eye. However, after meeting her father yesterday and today, Bella could see something change inside him. He is now different from what she had imagined before meeting him the last time.


    "Bella, I¡¯ve seen that side of him too often. But believe me, he will definitely return to being the way he was before. A temperamental and cruel man who would lose his rationality and caring when angry."


    "I understand what you¡¯ve been through with him. That¡¯s why I know what I asked is a lot for you. I¡¯m sorry I had to ask this, but I hope you can at least hear what he wants to say for one last time. You don¡¯t need to say anything if you don¡¯t want to...And I will be there the whole time, Mom."


    "Uhm, Bella, what do you think your father wants to say to me?" Natalie finally asked after a short silence.


    "He told me he wanted to apologize and speak to you for the last time before he signs the divorce papers."


    Once again, silence hung in the air.


    Natalie was at a loss for words when she heard that Lucas had agreed to sign the divorce papers. "Are you sure he will sign it?" she asked.


    Bella¡¯s hand gripped her cell phone tighter upon hearing her mother¡¯s doubt.


    "Mom, if my father lies to me, I promise you, he won¡¯t be able to return home. He will end up in the worst place he could imagine for the rest of his life. I will throw him in prison to pay for all his sins." Bella answered calmly and softly, yet her eyes glowed with fire.


    Natalie felt doubtful and confused. ¡¯Should I talk to Lucas?¡¯ she wondered. She was too afraid to talk to him now, not even just hearing his voice.


    Hearing her mother seem reluctant to speak to her father, Bella smiled. She fully understood her, and she had predicted this.


    "Mom, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t want to talk with him. My father promised to sign the paper even if you refused to see him. So, his request to see you is not a condition. He tried to convince me more than once that his request was nothing but to show his regret for ever hurting you, and he was ready to pay the consequences."


    "What does he mean?"


    "Father said he punished himself for hurting you and me, and the punishment would be that he would disappear from our lives forever. He says he will move to a remote place... far away from us and far away from any convenience in life," Bella explained briefly what her father said yesterday and today, which shocked Natalie.


    "Is that so? Okay then, I will talk to him."


    "Mom, I will be beside you and listen to anything he says. I will stop him if he says anything that hurts or guilt-trips you or if he tries to force you to return to him!"


    Hearing her daughter¡¯s words, Natalie chuckled. "Don¡¯t worry, Bella. Your mother is not stupid enough to give in to him again."


    Bella smiles. She immediately returned to the seating area while turning on the speakerphone.


    However, before giving her father the cell phone, she warned him not to say anything except apologize.


    "Mom, I will give the cell phone to Father," Bella said, her eyes fixed on her father. "And if my father forces you to do something you didn¡¯t want to, I won¡¯t sit silently here; you don¡¯t have to worry." She smiled at him, but her eyes issued a silent warning to him.


    "Hmm," Natalie hummed. She knew her daughter was not talking to her but to Lucas.


    After Bella handed her cell phone to her father, she settled in her seat. She pretended not to be interested in what her father would say, but her ears focused on their conversation.


    "Na-Natalie," Lucas¡¯s voice sounded shaky. He felt his heart racing, "I really miss you..."


    "Straight to the point, Father!" Bella chimed in, her intimidating eyes narrowing at him enough to give Lucas chills in his veins.


    Lucas Donovan cleared his throat, clenching the cell phone before expressing his thoughts.


    "Natalie, I understand what I did to you in the past can¡¯t be forgiven." Lucas¡¯s voice trembled. "However, for the first time since we married, I want to apologize for what I did to you. Please forgive me."


    After a few seconds, Lucas didn¡¯t hear any reaction from Natalie; he started to feel worried.


    In a hurry, he continued, "Natalie, my dear, if you can¡¯t forgive me now, I hope you can forgive me in the future. Alright... I won¡¯t say anything else, or take your time." He paused with a bitter smile. "Please take care of your health and be happy. Goodbye, Natalie. Thank you for everything..." Tears flowed from the corner of his eyes.


    After waiting for a few more seconds and not hearing anything from Natalie, Lucas wiped his tears before pulling the phone away from his ear and turning to look at his daughter. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He said nothing but handed the phone to Bella, then took a white envelope from his pocket and placed it on the table.

 Chapter 412: He Cry

    Lucas Donovan said nothing but handed the phone to Bella, then took a white envelope from his pocket and placed it on the table.


    "Bella, I already signed the papers. Please take care of your mother for me," Lucas said as he stood from his seat.


    "My daughter, I promise you I won¡¯t appear before you or your mother in the future. Goodbye, Bella. And thank you so much for allowing me to meet my grandson..." He finished his words and left.


    Bella sat still, watching her father disappear from her line of sight. She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt tears wetting her cheeks as he vanished.


    Her heart ached as she witnessed her father crying for the first time. He didn¡¯t express anger or objection; he simply left.


    "Bella, did your father really leave?" Natalie¡¯s voice came from the speakerphone.


    Bella looked at the screen, realizing the call was still connected. After wiping her tears, she replied, "Yes, he already left. He also signed the divorce papers. So, Mom, you are free now."


    Placing her cell phone on the table, she opened the envelope.


    ¡¯What is this!?¡¯ Bella was shocked to see that along with the divorce papers, there was another paper there.


    Natalie was stunned. She asked, "Are you certain about that?"


    Earlier, she had wanted to test Lucas to see if he had really changed, as Bella had said. That¡¯s why she deliberately didn¡¯t say anything, provoking him to show his emotions and annoyance. But it seems Bella was right; Lucas was indeed changed.


    "Yes, Mom. He left because he could no longer hold back his tears. I guess he didn¡¯t want me to witness his vulnerable side."


    Bella silently took a deep sigh while pinching her temple. Thinking about her father and what she saw today gave her a headache, enough to make her suspicious he would do something.


    Natalie was startled to hear Lucas Donovan crying. She had known him for many years and had never seen him shed a tear, not even when his mother died.


    "Bella, why do I feel bad for him?" Natalie confessed.


    Bella shrugged. "Mother, why do you feel bad for him? Are you feeling flattered by him because he has become nice? Come on, Mom, you are the one who reminded me¡ª"


    "No, Bella... You are wrong." Natalie quickly explained that she felt terrible for Lucas because she hadn¡¯t said anything.


    "It¡¯s fine, Mom. Father will understand because I already told him that you are too hurt and traumatized to speak to him ever again."


    Natalie said nothing.


    Everything had happened. As Bella said earlier, she is now free. She doesn¡¯t have to worry about him anymore. She could only bury Lucas in her deepest heart.


    But Natalie¡¯s plan to bury Lucas deep down in her heart suddenly failed when Bella said something about Lucas.


    "Mom, there¡¯s something weird about my father..." Bella said, her gaze falling on the document on the table.


    "Weird? What is it?" Natalie asked.


    "Besides the divorce paper, he left a will. I think it¡¯s about an inheritance for you. I haven¡¯t checked the content yet. You can check it later when I arrive..." Bella folded all the papers and put them in the envelope again while talking with her mother about a few things before she finally ended the call.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to leave the room, but her eyes looked toward the door. The worry she felt before slowly emerged again in her heart¡ªher father might end his life.


    "Is everything okay?" Bella snapped out when she heard Tristan¡¯s voice from the master bedroom. She turned to see him and saw him walking with Dax beside him.


    She smiled at them before standing from her seat, "Hmm, everything is okay. Tristan, I¡¯ll be leaving soon for work. I have to go to the Donovan Group¡¯s HQ."


    Instantly, Tristan and Dax¡¯s expressions turned gloomy.


    "Mommy, are you going out for work again?" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, baby. There is one work I need to finish today before we can return to our house. And I promise I¡¯ll return immediately when it¡¯s done." After smiling at Dax, she turned to see Tristan. "I hope we can fly back to the capital at night."


    Tristan¡¯s gloomy expression slowly changed as he smiled lovingly at his wife.


    "Okay, dear. Bryan and the others will guard you all the way. They are waiting for you outside..."


    ***


    In another room, Harper and the others sat in the living room.


    Her eyes were fixed on her cell phone, and she was nervously waiting for a reply to the message she had just sent. She checked her cell phone signal a few times, but what she had been waiting for was not there.


    She started to think about so many things.


    Why didn¡¯t he reply?


    Did I send the wrong text?


    Harper read the bold message she sent to Sean.


    ¡¯Hi, Sean. I¡¯m sorry if this bothers you. But truth be told, I¡¯ve been thinking about you a lot. I hope we can meet. Uhm, can we meet?¡¯


    Sighing deeply, Harper looked at Sam, who was sitting opposite her.


    "Sam, why do I think Sean thought of me as spam?" she asked while throwing her cell phone aside.


    "Why do you think like that!?" Sam responded.


    "Because he never replies to my text messages, not even once. I guess he is blocking my phone number. Oh my God! I¡¯m sucks!" She said, almost crying.


    Sam shook his head.


    He doubted it. He knew Sean was not that kind of person, especially if he knew the number belonged to Harper, Bella¡¯s best friend and a respectable woman. However, there is a chance Sean might have ignored Harper because she was annoying him by sending too many text messages in too brief of time.


    Sam chuckled as he remembered how Harper constantly texted him if she needed something urgent. She was indeed like a spammer, texting him nonstop.


    "How many times have you sent Sean a text message since I gave you his phone number?" Sam asked.


    Harper slightly frowned as she tried to remember.

 Chapter 413: Better Plan

    Harper slightly frowned as she tried to remember. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, you gave it to me a week ago. And I think... I¡¯ve only sent about twenty text messages. Well, maybe more. A lot more. Okay, I send about three to five times a day," she explained innocently with an aura of guilt.


    "Okay! Okay! I sent a lot of texts to him. Why do you even ask, Sam?"


    Sam chuckled as he looked at Harper with pity flashing through his eyes.


    "Well, you¡¯re the Boss, and I respect you. But, yeah, I think you¡¯ve sent too many messages to Sean in too short a time. So, I guess¡­ Sean probably has blocked your number," Sam tried to hold back a laugh so hard, seeing Harper¡¯s usually beautiful and cheerful face slowly turning gloomy beautifully.


    Even though Sam¡¯s statement was most likely accurate, hearing it upset her heart. She said nothing back at him, just sent him a sharp dagger gaze.


    "Well, Boss, don¡¯t blame Sean Spencer. Really. You can¡¯t blame him. He is a commander in the army special force, not just a random guy you saw outside and working 9 to 5," Sam chuckled as he remembered Sean¡¯s position in the military and as the current president¡¯s only son. "I know his private number is only known to a few important people, and I¡¯m lucky to be one of them."


    "Sam!" Harper called out to Sam in an icy tone. "How dare you rub salt in my wounded heart?" Harper felt even more gloomy. She knew she had no chance with Sean.


    What Harper imagined she did now was an amateur trying to climb Mount Everest without gear and practice. It seemed impossible to achieve!


    However, she was too stubborn to stop. Well, at least she tried, right?


    "Hahaha. Sorry Boss, I was just stating the fact," Sam shook his head while looking at Stefan, who was typing something on his laptop. "Stefan, can you help Harper? Your talent would be beneficial to our Boss here..."


    Stefan turned to see Sam and Harper. He asked, "Sure! What kind of service could I help our Boss here, bro?"


    "Can you hack Sean Spencer¡¯s phone?"


    Stefan said nothing but gave Sam a get-lost kind of expression.


    Sam couldn¡¯t help but laugh at Stefan¡¯s annoyed expression as he returned his focus to his laptop. It was obvious to Sam that Stefan was not keen on assisting Harper in hacking the phone of one of the most important military officers in this country.


    "Oh, come on. Are you silently saying you can¡¯t do it? I¡¯m not asking you to breach his privacy or steal anything. Just unblock Harper¡¯s phone number in his cell phone or ensure he reads the text message that Harper sent him..." Sam continued.


    Sam was starting to wonder about Stefan¡¯s abilities. If Stefan could beat the hackers in his old division, he would consider Stefan to be the best hacker he had ever known.


    Harper¡¯s expression was curious, like Sam¡¯s. Her hope to pursue Sean is still going strong. She was eager to hear Stefan¡¯s answer, her eyes not even blinking as she looked at him.


    However, instead of answering Sam¡¯s question, Stefan turned his gaze back to the monitor. He continued to type, ignoring Sam and purposely typing harder to show he was ignoring him. The clack-clack-clack sound from the keyboard got louder and faster.


    Sam chuckled while staring at Harper. He saw her shoulders slumped as she looked at him.


    "Sam, forget it. The best hackers in this country protect Sean. It would be unfair to ask Stefan for such trouble only to have my number unblocked from Sean¡¯s private number."


    "Yeah, I know...Sorry for asking, bro." Said Sam with a chuckle.


    "Well, I have a better plan than hacking his phone. How about you lure Sean Spencer out to meet you for lunch or dinner? I will be there to take advantage of the opportunity to meet him. What do you think?" Harper said it so excitedly that her voice sounded slightly squeaky.


    "Boss Harper, you are a cunning woman! I like your idea. But I¡¯m sorry to say that you expect too much from me. I¡¯m not that close with him to ask him for lunch or dinner. There is no way to ask him something like that out of the blue."


    Sam shook his head. He had been close with Sean, but that was back when he didn¡¯t know about Sean¡¯s family status. At the time, Sean had joined the army without using his family¡¯s last name and privilege; he advanced in the military based on his own merit.


    Only recently did they learn about Sean¡¯s true identity when he became the youngest General in the country and his connection to the Spencers was exposed. They didn¡¯t treat Sean any differently, but without them realizing it, it seemed like there was a distance between them.


    "Huh? I thought soldiers were like brothers in arms. You¡¯ve been through life-and-death experiences together, right?" Harper asked curiously, remembering Sam vaguely mentioning how he knew Sean.


    "You are right. However, when I retired, I was no longer in contact with Sean Spencer. We drifted apart and only met him again when he visited Bella." Sam smiled as he remembered his first encounter with Sean at Quantum Capital.


    Even though they weren¡¯t as close and didn¡¯t communicate after Sam retired from the military, he was grateful that Sean still considered him family and even saved his phone number.


    Now,


    Looking at Harper¡¯s disappointed expression, Sam felt terrible for her. After a quick thought, he said, "Harper, I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t promise to get Sean to meet me. But I will try to contact him for you. I will do my best..."


    A spring-like smile slowly emerged on Harper¡¯s lips when she heard about Sam¡¯s promise.


    "Thank you, Sam."


    "Don¡¯t say that. I haven¡¯t done anything yet," Sam said, scratching his head. He somehow felt worried about calling Sean. "Oh, right. When are you returning to New York?"

 Chapter 414: Did She Hear?

    "Oh, right. When are you returning to New York?" Sam asked.


    "I am leaving in two days, so I hope you can arrange for me to meet Sean before I fly back to my country," Harper said excitedly. She could feel her face turning warm at the thought of meeting Sean again.


    "Alright, I will call Sean before that. No worries," Sam said with a smile. However, his smile froze when Bella¡¯s voice echoed from behind.


    "Harper, why do you want to meet Sean Spencer?"


    Everyone in the room, including Stefan, immediately turned to look in Bella¡¯s direction. They were all shocked to see her standing there.


    ¡¯Oh, crap! She heard our conversation?¡¯ Harper vented her frustration in her heart while trying to smile at Bella.


    "Hi, Bella... are we going now?" Harper asked, standing from her seat, trying to distract Bella from asking further. It would be super awkward if Bella knew about her feelings for Sean.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer Harper but narrowed her eyes on her. When she saw her walking closer, she asked, "Are you guys planning a lunch gathering with Sean behind my back? Wait¡ª" her words paused.


    Suddenly, Bella recalled their earlier conversation; she remembered that Sam said he knew Sean Spencer. She swiftly glanced at Sam, wanting to ask, but Harper¡¯s awkward laugh echoed in the room.


    Harper raised both hands, waving as if not agreeing with Bella¡¯s words.


    "No... No... of course not. We¡¯re not close enough with Sean Spencer to ask him for lunch, right Sam!?" Harper said, turning to Sam for backup.


    Sam could feel Bella¡¯s sharp gaze fixed on him. He silently swallowed as he saw her curious eyes.


    "Tell me, how do you know Sean Spencer?" Bella calmly asked Sam, ignoring Harper.


    Sam smiled at Bella as he stood from his seat.


    "Sean Spencer was on the same team as me when I was still active in the military," Sam answers casually, but Harper scolds him inwardly.


    ¡¯Gosh! How could he betray me!?¡¯ Harper silently took a deep sigh.


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She never expected them to be in the same circle. "So, do you guys want to have lunch with him?"


    "Yeah. I asked him, and Harper also wanted to join, so why not?" Sam explained.


    "I see," Bella smiled, but she felt sad inwardly. She couldn¡¯t meet Sean again because he had already drawn boundaries between them.


    "Boss, do you want to join us?" Suddenly, Stefan chimed in, surprising Bella and the others, especially Harper.


    ¡¯What the heck!?¡¯ Harper couldn¡¯t help but curse, venting her anger inwardly. She looked at Stefan, clearly expressing her annoyance with him. How could he ask Bella to join them? Did he really understand what they were trying to do?


    Of course, Stefan didn¡¯t understand Harper¡¯s annoyance. Instead, he closed his laptop and stood up, walking towards Bella and the others.


    "Come on, Boss, join us. It would be fun if you were there, right?" Stefan added.


    Harper shook her head silently and looked at Bella.


    All eyes were on her, waiting for her answer.


    Bella smiled at Stefan.


    "Well, I can¡¯t confirm it, but I will consider joining you guys if I have time. Oh, by the way, when will you meet him?" Bella was just making some excuses. She didn¡¯t want to raise their suspicions by refusing right away. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Tomorrow. Maybe. Maybe tomorrow," Sam answered awkwardly. "Once we set the appointment time, I¡¯ll let you know..."


    "Sounds terrific..." Bella said, then glanced at Leo beside her. "Alright, we better move now and settle everything here faster. We need to return to the capital at noon."


    Bella already felt terrible because she brought her entire team to this place to settle her family matters. Even though Harper and James said it was okay, she still thought she had asked too much from her team.


    ***


    In the afternoon, they finally left East City and landed in the capital after the sky had darkened.


    Bella was very tired. She had no more energy to meet her mother, so she postponed their chat until the following day.


    After dinner and spending time with Dax, she began to feel warm and dizzy. She placed her hand on her forehead but couldn¡¯t tell the difference.


    "Do I have a fever!? Oh no. I hope not." Bella wondered while glancing at the tightly closed bathroom door, wanting to ask Tristan to get her some medicine.


    After waiting a while, she felt even more dizzy, like the world around her was spinning. Curled under the blanket, she closed her eyes and tried to sleep.


    ...


    Tristan stepped out of the bathroom with a white towel wrapped around his waist. As he moved towards the walk-in closet, he noticed Bella asleep on the bed with the lights still on.


    "Are you sleeping?" he asked, but she didn¡¯t respond.


    He smiled, assuming that his wife must be exhausted. Just as he was about to continue to the closet, he noticed that Bella¡¯s face looked red, as if she had a fever.


    Worried, he checked her temperature and realized she was indeed having a fever.


    Tristan quickly reached for his phone to call Geoffrey, asked him to prepare some medicine, and arrange a doctor¡¯s visit.


    This was the second time Tristan had seen Bella fall sick, and he still felt panicked as he paced near the door, waiting for Geoffrey.


    Not long after, a knock on the door was heard. Tristan rushed to open the door.


    "Master¡ª" Geoffrey¡¯s words faded, surprised to see Tristan half-naked.


    "Where¡¯s the medicine box?" Tristan asked impatiently.


    Geoffrey immediately handed over the small tray with fever-reducing medicine and water.


    "Sir, you need to wear something, or you will also catch a cold." Geoffrey reminded him after he saw Tristan. "I will prepare your clothes..." He left him and walked to his closet to find proper clothes for his master before the doctor¡¯s arrival.


    "Geoffrey, you can leave now. Wait for the doctor outside," he ordered Geoffrey while sitting on the edge of the bed.


    "Dear, please wake up..." Tristan whispered while placing the small tray on the nightstand. "Can you hear me, my dear?" he touched Bella softly and gently, trying to wake her up by slowly shaking her body.

 Chapter 415: Calling A Private Doctor

    Bella faintly hears Tristan¡¯s voice. She tries to open her eyes, but they feel heavy as if someone has placed glue on them.


    "Can you hear me, Bella?" Tristan asked again while touching her burning cheek.


    "Ugh...Tristan...yeah. I¡¯m too sleepy to do anything now... Can we not do it tonight? Can we just do it tomorrow? Please!" she said, giving up trying to open her eyes.


    Tristan was speechless, but he appreciated her knowing she cared about his particular needs despite being under the weather.


    "My dear wife, even though I really want to touch you now, I can¡¯t bear to do it when you have a fever," Tristan smiled, looking as she finally opened her eyes.


    Hearing the word ¡¯fever,¡¯ Bella immediately tried to sit up despite her stiff body.


    "Tristan, my head hurts so much, and I," Bella¡¯s sentence stopped when Tristan grabbed her hand and helped her to sit. She saw him also offer her a small tray.


    She was surprised to see he had already prepared medicine and water for her. How many minutes did she sleep? How could she not remember? S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hurry, take the medicine," he urged her to drink as he could feel how hot her hand was now.


    He waited for her to drink her med while occasionally glancing at his cell phone. He wanted to call the doctor again to urge him to arrive faster.


    Bella said nothing but drank the medicine in a hurry. She needed to drink it to lower her fever. After sitting for a few minutes, she started to feel uncomfortable again. She could feel her throat hurting when she swallowed the water.


    Tristan placed the empty glass and tray on the bedside table. He said, "The doctor will come to check your condition."


    "Y-You called a private doctor for me?" Bella was surprised to hear that.


    He didn¡¯t answer her right away but helped her to sleep again. After ensuring she was comfortable, he smiled and responded, "Hmm. Yes, and he is on the way here and will arrive soon. Alright, you can continue to sleep again."


    Bella closed her eyes, trying to sleep. However, seconds later, something crossed her mind; taking a deep breath, she said without opening her eyes.


    "Hubby, please put on some clothes. You could get sick like me..." Bella said in a low-hoarse voice.


    "Huh..." Tristan was taken aback to see he was still half naked. He was too panicky earlier and didn¡¯t care about anything else. He stood from the edge of the bed but didn¡¯t hurry to walk. He said, "Wife, did you dream about me earlier?"


    Bella opened her eyes to see Tristan with a frown, "Dream about you? I¡¯m not. Why do you think so?"


    Tristan chuckled while rubbing his back neck, "Before you woke, you asked me to have...well, you know... Sex... tomorrow because you can¡¯t do it now."


    Instantly, Bella felt her face even hotter hearing his words. She closed her eyes again.


    "You are the one who imagined that¡­ not me," she said hurriedly. "Ugh, go wear something before I force you to do it now, and you will regret it..."


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..." Tristan walked.


    He didn¡¯t want to tire her now, or she would be even sicker. Bella smiled when she peeked and saw Tristan run to the walk-in closet.


    Tristan returned wearing his night casual home clothes: a black shirt and pajamas the same color as his shirt. He didn¡¯t join Bella on the bed right away but took out his cell phone and made a call in the corner.


    "Max, I need you to check Carlos¡¯s location. If he has trouble with a traffic light, help him arrive at my house faster." Tristan ordered.


    "What happened, boss? Why does Carlos need to¡ª"


    "Stop asking and do!" Tristan said in cruelty.


    "Relax boss, I¡¯m typing now."


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything but waited for Max¡¯s answer.


    "Boss, he is now a mile from your residence, and the street ahead looks empty. So he should arrive in a few minutes."


    "OK, thanks." Tristan ended the connection and made another call. He instructed Geoffrey to ensure the gate guard didn¡¯t stop Carlos.


    After talking to them, he stood in his place, glancing at Bella on the bed. He saw she now seemed to sleep, which relieved him a little.


    A few minutes passed, and Tristan was still standing in his place, his gaze fixed on the bed. He was deep in thought, worrying about the many questions swirling in his mind.


    Suddenly, a soft knock on the door startled Tristan. He looked at the door and said, "Come in," as he walked toward the bed.


    Standing by the bed, Tristan saw Carlos, his private doctor, and best friend, enter the room calmly.


    "Tristan, it¡¯s really nice to see you! It¡¯s been a while since the last time we met." Carlos greeted him as he stood by his side. "Is this the woman you want me to examine?" he asked, looking at the beautiful woman sleeping on the bed.


    Carlos had never met this woman before, and he was shocked when Geoffrey told him his friend had summoned him here to check on her, not himself.


    "She is my wife, Carlos," Tristan said, returning his gaze to Bella. "Please examine her for me. She has a high fever, and I already gave her over-the-counter antipyretic medicine."


    Carlos was shocked beyond words. He didn¡¯t know Tristan had a woman beside him after he divorced a few years ago. Since when did he marry after his last divorce? Why didn¡¯t he invite him to his wedding?


    "What are you waiting for? Hurry..." Tristan narrowed his eyes at Carlos, clearly showing his displeasure.


    Carlos said nothing else but immediately checked Bella¡¯s temperature, trying not to make direct contact with her. He could feel Tristan¡¯s sharp gaze as if he wanted to drill into his brain if he made direct contact with his wife.


    After taking her temperature, he stood before Tristan again and said, "She does have a fever. It¡¯s under control, thanks to giving her the right med. As for why she has a fever, I need to examine her further. I need to run a blood test on her. With your consent, of course."

 Chapter 416: She Probably Pregnant

    Tristan clearly looked unsatisfied with Carlos¡¯ initial diagnosis.


    Seeing Tristan¡¯s expression, Carlos continued, "Tristan, don¡¯t worry. I will stay here for a while to see how the medicine reacts. If her fever spikes again within the next hour, I will give her a stronger dose and use IV for a more effective result. Now, I will take some of her blood for the lab. Just a little blood would do."


    "I see. Okay, would you mind coming to sit down with me before you take my wife¡¯s blood?" Tristan asked in an instructive tone. He¡¯s clearly not waiting for Carlos¡¯s answer as he immediately walks to the room¡¯s corner.


    Carlos stared at Tristan for a while, waiting for him to look calmer before expressing his curiosity.


    "Tristan, my good friend, since when did you marry again? If you had invited me, I would surely come. May I know why you didn¡¯t invite me to your second marriage?" Carlos felt hurt knowing his friend didn¡¯t involve him. Again!


    Tristan sighed deeply before answering, "I never remarried or married again. I only married once, and I never got a divorce, buddy."


    "You, you... what?" Carlos stammered in shock upon hearing his words. "So, are you saying she is the same woman...?" he asked.


    "Yes. I¡¯m sorry I¡¯ve been a bad friend by lying to you when I told you I was a divorcee. I was still married when you and I met, and here is my wife. We never divorced, just separated for a few years." Then, Tristan briefly explained their separation due to his parents but didn¡¯t share further details.


    "I see. No need to apologize, buddy. I get why you have to do it." Carlos nodded, understanding his friend¡¯s situation. "So, when did you reunite with your wife?" he asked curiously.


    "Early this year."


    Carlos smiled and said, "Oh, no wonder I never heard of you since then. You¡¯ve been very busy, my friend. Well, I¡¯m glad you finally reunited. And one more thing, I think congratulating you would be in order, my friend, but not for reuniting with your beloved wife. But because your wife might be pregnant.


    I saw all the physical symptoms of early pregnancy, but I will be more firm once we check her blood."


    Tristan took a moment to comprehend what Carlos was saying. When he did, his eyes widened as he stared back at Carlos. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His voice trembled as he asked, "Carlos, can you repeat what you just said?"


    Seeing Tristan¡¯s tense and serious expression made Carlos worry. He might have given Tristan false hopes.


    Carlos cleared his throat and said, "Tristan, as I mentioned, your wife has all the early pregnancy symptoms. Uhm, to reconfirm it, I need to do more tests. I mean, sometimes, in a rare case, the symptoms could be for something else. So, for now, no guarantee."


    Tristan¡¯s expression slowly turns gloomy.


    "But, as my years of medical expertise and practice have taught me, what your wife has are the most common symptoms of early pregnancy. So, congratulations are in order, but give me more time to reconfirm it." Carlos continues.


    Tristan¡¯s heart raced with excitement at the possibility of Bella¡¯s pregnancy. He had almost forgotten about it because, given what had happened in the past¡ªHe and his family had high hopes for her getting pregnant, but she couldn¡¯t¡ªhe didn¡¯t want her to get hurt again.


    This time, Tristan wouldn¡¯t ask her to go through another experience with the IVF program. He would simply wait until God gave them the gift of another child naturally.


    Even so, Tristan felt warmth in his heart and mind as he imagined Dax would have a sibling or two siblings if it were a twin. Who knows for now. He smiled silently as he looked at his sleeping wife.


    He wanted to go to her, embrace her, and take the fever from her, but before he could ask Carlos to wait outside, he stopped when he saw Carlos was about to say something.


    "Tristan, are you alright?" Carlos asked, concerned about seeing him in a trance. His best friend sat before him and didn¡¯t move at all.


    "I¡¯m fine. I understand what you said earlier. Alright, I will let you know when we need to test her blood, but please don¡¯t say anything to her. I will speak to her first," Tristan warned him, afraid that Carlos would tell Bella before him.


    "Sure, man. Let¡¯s wait a couple of hours; if her fever persists, I will put in an IV," Carlos explained to Tristan in detail.


    "Alright, thanks," Tristan said as he stood up. "Geoffrey will lead you to a guest room. You will sleep here tonight."


    After watching Carlos close the door, Tristan joined Bella on the bed. He held her hot hand, causing his heart to ache.


    At this moment, he only wanted to take away all her pain, all the discomfort she felt now.


    "Bella, my wife, please don¡¯t be sick..." whispered Tristan. With his other hand, he smoothed the messy hair on her forehead, but before he could do so, a smile slowly appeared on his lips when he saw a streak of sweat on her forehead.


    Finally, Tristan could calm down, even though only a bit, knowing the medicine was working. Bella¡¯s fever was starting to break.


    Tristan let her sleep a little longer, not daring to move. He took out his phone and exchanged messages with Carlos, reporting to him about his wife¡¯s progress.


    ***


    A few hours later,


    Bella slowly opened her eyes. The room was so bright that it blinded her.


    After adjusting to the light, Bella felt her whole body sweat-soaked. She immediately raised her hand to check her temperature, but her hand stopped mid-air when she saw the IV line.


    Turning her head to the side, she was shocked to see the IV pole on the side of the bed, with two IV fluids hanging, both half-empty.


    ¡¯When did they put this thing in!? Why don¡¯t I remember anything?¡¯ Bella thought while looking at her hand.

 Chapter 417: He Put Aside His Curiosity

    Confused about what had happened, Bella turned to check on Tristan. She was even more shocked to see her husband now sleeping, leaning against the headboard, his head hung low and his chin almost touching his collarbone.


    "T-Tristan, why... why do you sleep like that?" Bella asked. Her throat felt sore, and her voice sounded hoarse, barely audible.


    She felt terrible seeing her husband sleeping while sitting; he must have been exhausted waiting for her.


    Bella put her hand on her forehead to check her body temperature. After feeling her temperature had returned to normal, she smiled while glancing again at Tristan.


    She didn¡¯t want to wake him, so she tried to sit beside him and gently placed his head on her shoulder.


    However, Tristan opened his eyes before his head leaned on Bella¡¯s shoulder. Panic radiated from his reddish eyes when he saw her sitting beside him.


    "Bella, when did you wake up? How do you feel now?" Tristan asked, putting her hand on her forehead.


    "Just a few minutes before you wake up. I feel better now. My body is no longer shivering, and I can also feel my fever is gone," Bella said gladly with a thin smile, trying to calm Tristan.


    "Thank God..." Tristan placed his hand on Bella¡¯s waist and pulled her closer.


    "When does the doctor put in this IV? I don¡¯t remember at all."


    Tristan was surprised to hear her question, "Oh, you don¡¯t remember or hear what happened?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him immediately. She tried to recall her memories but failed after a few more seconds.


    She nodded and said, "Hmm, I only remember you helping me take fever medicine. And... I also vaguely remember you helping me sleep more comfortably."


    Tristan felt amused recalling what happened last night. He started to tell Bella why they decided to put an IV on her.


    When her body temperature spiked again, Tristan immediately called Carlos. Then, Carlos put in an IV so the fever-reducing fluid would work faster. He also gave her vitamins to help her recover quickly.


    What amazed Tristan was that Bella only woke briefly. She only winced a little when Carlos inserted the IV needle into the back of her hand and immediately slept after they put the IV in.


    After hearing her answer, Tristan was now sure that his wife was still half-conscious last night when they put the IV needle in.


    "Alright, the important thing is that you are much better now," Tristan said while straightening her messy hair.


    Bella was stunned. She didn¡¯t recall anything. She seemed exhausted and immediately fell into a deep sleep.


    "What time is it now?" Bella tried to look outside, but the window curtains were tightly closed; she couldn¡¯t see if the sun had already risen.


    Glancing at the clock on the nightstand, Bella was surprised to find it was already seven a.m. She silently sighed, knowing she had slept too long.


    "It looks like the sun is just starting to appear on the horizon. Are you hungry?" Tristan asked.


    He got out of bed. After turning off the lights, he walked to the window and opened the curtains to let the sunlight into the room. He also opened the glass door leading to the veranda so fresh air could enter.


    "Do you want breakfast now?" Tristan asked, sitting back on the side of the bed next to Bella. She nods.


    "I¡¯m hungry, but please ask someone to remove this IV before that. I feel uncomfortable," Bella pleaded, looking at the needle on the back of her hand.


    Tristan immediately nodded. He took his cell phone and called Carlos.


    Carlos¡¯ hoarse voice was heard from the other end, "Tristan?"


    There was a short pause, and only a faint groan could be heard on the other end, making Tristan frown.


    Tristan asked suspiciously, "What are you doing there?"


    Carlos yawned before answering Tristan¡¯s question.


    "Of course, I was sleeping. Now I¡¯m awake, thanks to you..." he said sarcastically. "Why did you wake me up this early? Did you forget I¡¯ve only been asleep for an hour?" He cleared his throat.


    He felt like he wanted to cry now. This was the first time he had to wait on a patient with a fever; even when he was still an intern in his first year as a resident, he never felt this tense and panicked like he was about to do complicated surgery.


    Tristan shook his head as he glanced at Bella. He was surprised to see her staring at him with a suspicious frown. A loving smile appeared on his lips before he excused himself to walk towards the veranda.


    He didn¡¯t want Bella to overhear his conversation with Carlos.


    "Man, if you want to hear the lab results, I¡¯m sorry to say I can¡¯t give you anything because my assistant only left this place one hour ago. Please be patient," Carlos said.


    "I didn¡¯t ask for that information," Tristan responded while pinching his temple. "But I want to ask you to come to my room."


    "Right now? Is everything alright there?" Carlos asked in concern. He thought it was too early to check on Bella again, right? He had just left their room an hour ago, and he was sure everything would be alright because Bella¡¯s fever had rapidly reduced.


    "Yes! You need to remove the IV. My wife feels uncomfortable."


    "Oh... my sister-in-law is awake?" Carlos¡¯ voice sounded more cheerful, and his sleepiness suddenly disappeared. "Okay, I¡¯ll come upstairs soon." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    After discussing a few things with Carlos, Tristan returned to the room to meet Bella. He found her still sitting there, looking at him.


    "The doctor will be here soon to remove it," he said while standing by the bed. "What do you want for breakfast?"


    "Anything warm and delicious. I¡¯m so hungry like I haven¡¯t been eating for days," Bella replied, stroking her stomach.


    Tristan, noticing her gesture, could only swallow silently. He was really curious about the results of his wife¡¯s blood test.


    ¡¯Was she really pregnant?¡¯ Tristan wonders. But a second later, he puts aside his curiosity. He doesn¡¯t want to have high hopes, afraid the result will differ from what he hoped for.


    "Okay, I will ask Geoffrey," he said, then sent a couple of texts to Geoffrey.

 Chapter 418: Meeting Tristan’s Friend For The First Time

    Soon after, Carlos arrived. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Carlos didn¡¯t enter the room right away. He paused to admire how beautiful and elegant Bella looked, sitting on the bed and staring at him.


    Carlos still remembered that last night, he had only seen her asleep. When she briefly woke, he was too focused on inserting the IV in her hand to really see her. After he finished, Tristan didn¡¯t allow him to stay in the room for too long.


    "Carlos, you can come in!" Tristan urged him to move when he saw him standing near the door without taking a single step.


    "Bella, let me introduce you to my personal doctor. He is also my close friend. His name is Carlos Montana," Tristan said when he saw Carlos finally enter the room.


    Bella was stunned as she looked at the tall, slender man with honey-brown hair who smiled broadly at her.


    ¡¯He is Tristan¡¯s best friend?¡¯ she muttered inwardly while smiling back at him awkwardly. She felt happy because this was the first time Tristan had introduced his best friend to her.


    "Hello, Mr. Montana¡ª" Bella¡¯s words stopped when Carlos slowly raised his hand to stop her.


    "Well, Goddess... I mean, Sister-in-law, you can call me by my name, Carlos..." He said happily, with a smile.


    However, Carlos¡¯s wide smile slowly faded when he stood beside Tristan and felt his threatening gaze.


    "Carlos, would you mind starting to do your job?!" Tristan whispered.


    Carlos silently gulped and hurriedly turned his gaze back to Bella. This time, he had set aside his friendliness and started gazing at and talking to Bella with the calmness and professionalism of a doctor.


    "Sister-In-Law, excuse me. I will start to remove the IV needle from you. There will be a slight pinch, but it will be very brief," he said politely before starting to work.


    "Oh, okay, doc," Bella said casually. Still, inwardly, she laughed, looking at her jealous husband¡¯s gaze fixed on Carlos as if he wanted to slap Carlos through his stare.


    After removing the IV needle from Bella¡¯s hand and packing his medical stuff, Carlos checked her temperature one last time before explaining her condition.


    "Sister-in-law, your health has improved so much," he told her. "But I recommend that you rest today. I suggest you get a lot of rest, preferably stay home and not go to the office, and please avoid any strenuous activities for the time being."


    Carlos not only informed Bella about her condition but also explained why she had suddenly developed a fever: she was too exhausted, and her immune system had weakened.


    "Thank you for your help, doc," Bella said gratefully, relieved that the needle was no longer in her hand.


    Carlos ran his fingers through his hair, smiling awkwardly as he heard her gentle voice, but he didn¡¯t like how she addressed him formally.


    "Sister-in-law, you can call me Carlos. There¡¯s no need to speak formally to me. Although this is our first meeting, I¡¯ve heard a lot about you from Tristan, so I feel like I¡¯ve known you for a long time. Well, I consider you my family. I hope you do the same."


    Bella was stunned to hear his words. Knowing Tristan had been telling his friends about her made her want to know more.


    "Okay, I will call you Carlos," Bella said, then looked at Tristan with her curious smile. She continued, "And Carlos, I¡¯d love to hear more about what my husband tells you about me. Can you tell me everything?" She wanted to know if Tristan told Carlos about their past.


    Tristan smiled back at Bella, understanding the meaning behind her words. Now he worried Carlos would tell her about the blood test they were doing now.


    "Dear, you can talk with him later, not now. You need to have your breakfast. Carlos also needs to return to the hospital. He has an important surgery to take care of this morning," Tristan said casually.


    Carlos was speechless. He didn¡¯t know he had surgery scheduled for this morning. Silently, he vented his anger on Tristan in his mind, knowing he was trying to get rid of him. How heartless!


    "Isn¡¯t that right, Carlos?" Tristan looked at Carlos with a smile, but his smile looked like an order to follow his words.


    "My friend Tristan," Carlos said, returning Tristan¡¯s fake smile, "You are so kind¡­ to remind me," he added while patting Tristan on his shoulder. After that, he turned back to Bella. "Sister-in-law, we can talk later. I should go back to the hospital now."


    "Yes, sure. See you around, Carlos," Bella smiled at him.


    Carlos leaned closer to Tristan. "Boss, you should triple my bonus this year! Or I will tell my sister-in-law about the blood test results!" he whispered.


    Tristan glared at him, but he eventually nodded, "Deal!"


    ***


    Not long after,


    After Bella finished showering and changing into her casual home clothes, she headed to Dax¡¯s room to look after him, but Tristan stopped her.


    "Dax has already started his martial arts practice with Geoffrey. They are now practicing outside."


    Bella was surprised to learn that her son had immediately been active in his activity.


    "Why so fast? I mean, he needs to relax a bit, right?"


    Tristan shook his head. "That¡¯s one of my conditions when he asked to follow you to the East City. Once we return, he must be active again with his martial arts training because I saw him slacking so much lately."


    "Come on, he is only four!"


    "He needs to train his foundation to master his martial arts movements. Did you see how terrible Liam is? He can¡¯t even kick someone..." Tristan said, held her hand, and walked toward the stairs.


    Bella couldn¡¯t refute Tristan¡¯s words. He was correct; their son needed to know how to fight because many bad people would target him if they knew his identity as the billionaire Tristan Sinclair¡¯s son.


    She silently took a deep breath and followed Tristan down the stairs to the dining room.

 Chapter 419: Someone Tries to Trace Her Identity

    "Did Dax know about my fever?" Bella glanced at Tristan, worried their son might be concerned if he found out.


    "No. I asked Geoffrey not to tell anyone, including Dax and your mother."


    "Thank you, Tristan. I don¡¯t want my mother and Dax to worry about me. Besides, it¡¯s just a common fever."


    "I know. But from now on, I won¡¯t allow you to overwork. If you do and get sick again, I will call Jack and complain. He will probably agree with me about reducing your work or removing you from your position."


    Tristan said casually, but his eyes clearly showed his seriousness. He was trying to tell her that he couldn¡¯t accept her refusal in this matter.


    "Ooo, I understand, Mr. Sinclair. I promise I will never tire myself again." Bella grinned, clearly aware of his worry.


    Bella did not wish to return to work in the first place, but she couldn¡¯t back out now because she had already promised Jack that she would help the company grow in this country.


    She plans to retire from the RDF management team and Quantum Capital once the company has a strong foundation. Her primary target is to bring this company to the top ten in the country.


    After achieving her target, she will return to her dream of being a mother to her child and a good wife to her husband, enjoying a peaceful life with her family¡ªthe life she has been dreaming of while her money works for her.


    "Thank you, my wife. Your words warm my heart," Tristan lovingly smiled at her.


    Bella rolled her eyes at his sweet talk before saying, "Well, Mr. Sinclair, you must take care of your company too, sir! I don¡¯t want to see my husband slacking off from his work because of me."


    When Tristan heard her words, he stifled a laugh. He took her hand and led her to the dining table.


    "Dear, don¡¯t worry. I will go to the office after breakfast. How about you? What do you want to do?"


    "I am planning to visit my mother. I have so much to discuss with her. Also, I kind of envy now¡­" Bella sighed deeply as she sat in her chair.


    Tristan raised his eyebrow slightly, looking at her gloomy expression. "Why do you feel that way? Has something happened between you and your mom? Why are you envious of her?" he asked, looking worried.


    Bella shrugged and shook her head.


    "It¡¯s because of our baby Dax. Lately, he prefers having breakfast there instead of here with us."


    Tristan chuckled, amused at how adorable her expression was as she was jealous of her own mother.


    "Darling wife, our son probably still wants to spend time with his Granny. Don¡¯t be jealous; they only meet for a few days."


    "Hubby, you may not understand what I mean. I envy our son¡¯s ability to eat my mom¡¯s cooking every morning."


    Tristan smiled when he realized the reason behind Bella¡¯s gloominess ¡ª she missed her mother¡¯s cooking. He felt guilty that Bella couldn¡¯t visit her mother because of him. Every morning, he had been having breakfast with her at their house.


    "My dear wife," Tristan said, placing his spoon down before gently touching her cheek. As he saw her turning to look at him, he continued, "I do think you need to spend more time with your mother. So, don¡¯t worry about me; I¡¯m happy to see you happy. And yes, you can have lunch with her today..."


    Bella leaned closer and kissed his cheek.


    "Thank you, Tristan¡ª"


    ***


    After leaving the house, Tristan didn¡¯t go straight to his office. Instead, he asked his driver to go to S International Hospital as he needed to know the results of his wife¡¯s blood test.


    Parked in the exclusive parking lot in the basement, Tristan called Carlos.


    "Do you have the Lab result yet, Carlos?" he asked.


    "Yes. I have it with me. Where are you now?" Carlos responded, holding Bella¡¯s sealed lab result in his hand.


    "In the parking lot, the usual place," Tristan replied.


    "Great! Wait for me there; I will bring the result," Carlos said.


    Tristan ended the call, trying to calm his racing heartbeat. He remained focused on the underground lobby entrance, anticipating Carlos¡¯ arrival.


    As he nervously waited for Carlos, his cell phone suddenly rang, surprising him. He frowned when he saw Max¡¯s name on the screen. He didn¡¯t recall having a task for Max to call him at this early hour.


    Worried that something important had happened, he immediately picked up the phone. His worry increased when he heard Max¡¯s tense voice on the other end.


    "Boss, someone tried to find information about the young madam¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s face instantly darkened, and he gripped his cell phone tightly. "Who?" He asked calmly, though his high tone failed to conceal his worry.


    "A powerful hacker from South Europe. But I suspect his coordinates were fake, so I can¡¯t determine his real position," Max explained. He remembered encountering this hacker before, but it had been a brief encounter. He could tell the person was not an amateur but a professional hacker.


    "Did he succeed?" Tristan¡¯s icy voice surprised Reid, who was sitting beside the driver. Reid felt alert and suspicious that something terrible had happened. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They couldn¡¯t break my first-layer firewall, and I happened to be online at the time, so I could alert and hunt them back, but I¡¯m really sorry, I can¡¯t capture that person. He managed to escape my siege..." Max said regretfully.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything, lost in thought. When he was about to speak, he saw Carlos emerge from the elevator.


    "We¡¯ll talk in my office!" Tristan hurriedly ended the call. He turned his gaze to Reid. "Add security around my wife and son; keep an eye out for anything suspicious wherever she is at all times."


    "Consider it done, Boss!" Reid responded by taking out his cell phone and texting his subordinates.


    "Knock. Knock."


    Tristan turned to see Carlos standing outside, knocking on the window. He rolled down the window and said, "Thanks, Carlos. May I see it?!"


    "Let¡¯s open it together," Carlos said excitedly, handing Tristan the envelope.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Carlos," Tristan refused, causing Carlos¡¯s expression to turn ugly. He continued, "I have an urgent meeting at the office. I will let you know the result."


    Carlos nodded. "Sure, man. It¡¯s your call!"


    Tristan asked the driver to move. He needed to arrive at the office soon to meet Max. He was worried that his business enemy knew about his relationship with Bella, and they would start digging for information about her. It would be troublesome if this happened.

 Chapter 420: The Test Result!

    Tristan¡¯s gaze is fixed on the white envelope in his hand.


    In the left corner, there¡¯s an S International Hospital logo. His hand trembles slightly as he tries to open the envelope. After much effort, he manages to tear the envelope open.


    When he finally takes out the blood test result, his heart races. However, he cannot bring himself to read it openly.


    He takes a deep breath and calms his racing heart a few more times before daring to read the result.


    Tristan doesn¡¯t understand what else is written there, but his eyes are now fixed on the status of the pregnancy.


    Instantly, his hand clutches the paper tightly after reading the answer to his curiosity.


    "Boss, we have arrived¡ª" Reid¡¯s voice pulls Tristan from his thoughts. He immediately steps out of the car and heads to his office.


    ***


    Meanwhile, at the same time...


    Bella is sitting in the living room at the stone house with her mother.


    Dax is busy in the corner watching a documentary movie about Arctic expeditions on his iPad.


    Before Bella handed over a brown envelope to her mother, she glanced at her son again, ensuring he would not hear their conversation.


    "Mom, these are the divorce papers Dad signed and the Inheritance Letter that a lawyer has legalized..." Bella explained a few things and asked her mother to check.


    Natalie froze in her seat. Her eyes stared intently at the A4 envelope on the table.


    Slowly, her hands on her lap clenched into fists, feeling cold, like she was holding ice cubes.


    Somehow, Natalie felt unreal because she knew Lucas Donovan so well. He is not the type of man who would give up on her easily; he will never let her go.


    But now? It¡¯s hard for her to believe that Lucas Donovan, her first love, the man she had loved for decades, had finally agreed to separate from her without a fight.


    "Mom, do you want me to open it for you?" Bella asked, successfully snapping Natalie out of her own thoughts.


    Natalie turned her gaze to Bella.


    A half-smile appeared on the corner of her lips before she responded, "No need. I will check¡ª" sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Natalie slowly reached for the envelope and opened it. When she saw the divorce papers that Lucas had signed, a mix of emotions spread through her heart; she felt happy and sad simultaneously.


    Taking a deep breath, Natalie found another document inside the envelope.


    ¡¯A will? Why did he give this to me?¡¯ Natalie muttered to herself.


    Receiving a will from Lucas confused her.


    When she decided to divorce Lucas, she didn¡¯t plan on asking for any financial support because she didn¡¯t want anything to do with him anymore.


    ¡¯Lucas, why did you confuse me again with this matter!? I don¡¯t need anything from you!¡¯


    Natalie started reading, and it took her a few minutes to finish reading all the content of the will.


    Her brows slowly furrowed when she read the list of assets Lucas gave her. She didn¡¯t understand all of that; she looked at her daughter.


    "Bella, why did your father give me all his wealth?" Natalie asked, but Bella responded with the same confused expression. She also didn¡¯t understand why her father did that.


    Natalie reread the letter. This time, she read it aloud so Bella could hear it.


    "Your father transferred all his Donovan Group shares, several houses, some land, and other assets listed in this letter. The only thing that¡¯s not included here is his cash." Natalie paused as she glanced at Bella.


    "Can I see it?" Bella asked.


    "Sure!" Natalie handed the will to Bella.


    After reading it herself, Bella was shocked to see that what her mother had said was true. All her father¡¯s assets were listed in the document.


    "Woah! I didn¡¯t expect my father to have this many assets. I thought his assets were used up by his woman out there¡ª" Bella¡¯s sentence hung in the air when she saw her mother¡¯s facial expression turn dark again.


    After scolding herself inwardly, Bella smiled faintly at her mother.


    "Mom, I can¡¯t confirm the legality of this document yet because this is only a copy. We need to ask the lawyer to come here to confirm this will," Bella explained.


    "Who is the lawyer your father used?" Natalie asked.


    "Uncle Erik Anderson," Bella answered while she handed the document to her mother. She continued, "Mom, I¡¯ll contact Uncle Erik and ask him to come here. We had better hear from him quickly, Mom. To settle this document..."


    Natalie nodded in agreement.


    "Yes. Please arrange for Erik to meet me here."


    "Ah, what about the divorce papers? Do you want me to submit them to the court?"


    Natalie was silent for a moment. An inner conflict arose in her heart since she knew Lucas had suddenly changed.


    She hears so many things about Lucas that she never witnessed when she was still his wife; Lucas agrees to divorce her. He also said he would vanish from her life and Bella¡¯s. The most confusing thing that puzzled her was Lucas giving away all his wealth.


    Now,


    Natalie was lost in her thoughts, thinking about Bella¡¯s question. After a few moments, her hand tightly clenched before she said:


    "There is no need to submit this to the court. I¡¯ll keep this letter to myself. What¡¯s important is that your father knows we¡¯re divorced, and he doesn¡¯t have a chance to hurt me again." Natalie smiled, feeling amused, as she looked at her daughter, who appeared shocked.


    In her mind, Bella disagreed with her mother, but she didn¡¯t want to interfere with her mother¡¯s new phase in life. And Bella wants to show her respect for her mother¡¯s wishes. As long as her mother didn¡¯t decide to return to her father, she could live with that.


    "Okay, Mom. I understand."


    "Bella, there¡¯s something I want you to do for me. Besides calling Uncle Erik, can you also call Henry to come here? I need to talk to him. I¡¯m sure your brother feels confused now..."


    Natalie hesitated to finish her sentence when she saw Bella¡¯s displeased expression.


    "My daughter, it¡¯s okay. Forget what I said earlier..." Natalie said softly. She didn¡¯t want to trouble Bella again about Henry¡¯s matter.

 Chapter 421: Suspicious With The Guard

    "My daughter, it¡¯s okay. Forget what I said earlier..." Natalie said softly. She didn¡¯t want to trouble Bella again about Henry.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but smile when she saw her mother¡¯s worried expression. She could feel her mother¡¯s fear of mentioning Henry¡¯s name in their conversation.


    "Mom, I will call my brother later..." Bella said calmly.


    Natalie gasped in surprise. She looked her daughter in the eyes for a few more seconds before she asked, "Bella, are you okay with that? I know you hate him so much, and I can understand if you don¡¯t want to meet him, too."


    Since she stayed here, guilt has tortured Natalie inwardly. She is aware of her failure to raise her children. Her daughter and son never got along, and her eldest son constantly bullied his little sister, and she did nothing to help her daughter.


    "Of course I¡¯m fine. Henry wasn¡¯t involved in your divorce from Dad. It wasn¡¯t his fault when I fought with my father and uncles to take over the company. Besides, I promised Dad I wouldn¡¯t punish Henry, so I did plan to meet him," Bella explained.


    Natalie¡¯s eyes felt warm again when she heard how understanding Bella was towards her older brother.


    "Thank you, Bella. You are such an angel. You are so kind to us," Natalie said, ashamed to remember the past when she cared more about Henry than Bella.


    And now, only Bella has helped her escape from her miserable life.


    "There¡¯s no need to mention that, Mom," Bella responded before they continued discussing what Natalie wanted to do for Henry.


    That day, Bella spent the day at her mother¡¯s house, chatting about many things, especially her mother¡¯s plans for Henry.


    ***


    After lunch, Bella didn¡¯t stay there for long.


    She excused herself to her mother with Dax to return to their house. Holding hands with her son, Bella walked towards the house.


    However, she seemed lost in her own thoughts; her body was there with Dax, but her mind was not.


    "Mommy, do you hear me?" Daxton¡¯s curious and worried voice pulled Bella away from her thoughts.


    Bella suddenly stopped walking and turned to Dax, surprised to see his confused gaze. "What is it, Dax?" she asked.


    "Mommy, didn¡¯t you say we were going home?"


    "Yes, I did. Why do you ask?" Bella was puzzled by his question.


    "Why are we at Grandpa¡¯s house now?"


    Bella was stunned. She looked around and realized they were indeed standing at the back door of her grandfather¡¯s house.


    ¡¯Oh my God! What¡¯s happening to me?¡¯ Bella vented her frustration inwardly, shaking her head lightly, trying to push away all thoughts about Henry and her father from her mind.


    After a deep sigh, Bella smiled at Dax before walking to their house.


    Dax could tell his mother was lost in thought but didn¡¯t ask anything. Instead, he was curious about his great-grandpa.


    "Mommy, when will my great-grandpa return?" Dax asked after noticing that his mother was no longer lost in thought. She seemed to be enjoying the scenery and the pleasant late summer weather.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, he¡¯ll be back this afternoon," Bella answered. She remembered her Grandpa saying he would stay in East City for a day to finish a few things before returning to the capital.


    "Why? Do you miss him already?" Bella smiled, seeing her son¡¯s eyes beam as he stared at her. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Mom. I miss Great-grandpa and Uncle Nick. I didn¡¯t meet them when I visited you in the East."


    "Sorry, baby. Your great-grandpa is slightly busy taking care of the company, so he can¡¯t visit our hotel."


    "It¡¯s fine, Mommy," Dax said. His eyes shone as he looked up to see his mother. "I¡¯m happy that my Great-grandpa will return today."


    Bella said nothing but flashed a sweet smile and marveled at her son¡¯s excitement.


    "Oh, by the way, Mom, I heard from Granny that you have an older brother?"


    "Y-Yes..." Bella was surprised to know that Dax had already heard about Henry from her mother.


    She didn¡¯t intend to hide Henry from Dax because she knew her son was brilliant and would find out about it sooner or later, but she didn¡¯t want to tell him now.


    "Your uncle will visit us sometime soon. But you must remember, I¡¯m not that close with him..." Bella worried about explaining her complicated relationship with Henry to her son.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Mom. Aunty Noora has already told me about it," Dax casually said, surprising Bella. "She told me your relationship with him is like the Tom and Jerry cartoon. Is that true?"


    Bella was speechless. Aunty Noora was too creative to portray her and Henry like that. Gosh!


    "Well, not even close. We are like water and oil; we can¡¯t stay in the same place for too long. And he bullies me!" Bella wanted to say that, but she halted her words when she noticed a few unfamiliar guards in a few spots in the front yard of their house.


    She also saw a few people there when she glanced behind in the direction of her Grandpa¡¯s house.


    ¡¯Why do so many guards appear in this place now?¡¯ Bella muttered. She knows professional guards guard their house and Grandpa¡¯s, but they only guard the front gate.


    ¡¯Did something happen to make Tristan double them?¡¯ Bella wondered, making a note to ask Tristan later.


    "Mom, what¡¯s wrong?" Dax asked, following his mother¡¯s line of sight and looking towards the garden in front of the house. He saw several guards patrolling, but he did not see anything strange. He looked up again to see his mother. "Mommy!?"


    Bella turned to look at Dax. "Nothing. I just saw some guards there."


    "Ah, those men are guarding our house and Grandpa¡¯s. My teacher said they keep our house safe from evil people, Mom."


    Bella felt amused hearing his explanation. "Yes, they are..."


    Soon, they finally arrived at their house.


    After letting Dax rest in his room, Bella returned to her own bedroom. She felt exhausted and fell asleep.


    However, before she lay on the soft bed, she needed to call her brother, Henry.

 Chapter 422: Henry Pleaded

    While in East City, at Isaac Donovan¡¯s house, Henry Donovan stares sharply at his Grandpa.


    However, even when he shows his annoyance, his Grandpa completely ignores him, causing him even more frustration.


    "Grandpa, please help me, please! Ask Aunty Emma not to fire me. How could she do that after taking over the company? Did she forget I¡¯m her nephew!?"


    Henry pleads again; this is his fifth time, but still, his Grandpa ignores him.


    Instead of helping Henry or offering him kind words, Isaac Donovan scolds him. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Henry Donovan! Stop talking nonsense. I can¡¯t help you..."


    Henry is left speechless.


    What on earth is happening here? Everything seems odd!


    Last night, his father completely shut himself in his bedroom, alone. His father refused to meet when he tried to reach him to talk about the company.


    When he tried to speak to his father again this morning, the maid said he had already left the house. They also didn¡¯t know where he had gone.


    Henry tried to call him, but to his surprise, he found out that his father had left his cell phone in his study room.


    He was even more shocked when he found a letter from his father, saying goodbye to him through the letter and mentioning that he would go to a remote place and didn¡¯t know when he would return.


    Henry initially believed his father had left to search for his missing mother and avoid dealing with the company matters.


    ...


    Henry was still shocked by his father¡¯s sudden departure, but something else surprised him even more.


    When Henry arrived at his office this morning after his extended leave due to injury, he was shocked to learn that the company had fired him.


    It was difficult for Henry to believe, but the new employee who had taken his place handed him the termination letter. He was surprised to see that the new CEO of Donovan Group had issued the letter, and when he saw the name, he felt almost choked.


    How could he not have known that the new CEO was his aunt, Emma?


    Two days ago, Henry heard rumors that there was an impromptu shareholders¡¯ meeting with the agenda of removing the company¡¯s CEO. However, he did not believe the rumors.


    Today, everything unfolded, and it turned out that his uncle was indeed replaced.


    And the new CEO is none other than his aunt.


    Henry never imagined this would happen; his aunt fired him. He didn¡¯t understand why his aunt had fired him.


    He couldn¡¯t recall having any issues with his aunt that would have led to his dismissal.


    Eager to find out why, Henry attempted to contact her by phone, but his aunt didn¡¯t answer.


    When he tried to visit her at the main office, the security stopped him before he could reach the CEO¡¯s office, which stressed him out immensely.


    Realizing he couldn¡¯t meet his aunt, Henry hurriedly went to his Grandpa¡¯s house.


    Unfortunately, his attempts to reach his Grandpa seemed to be in vain, as his Grandpa also ignored him.


    Henry stood from his seat and kneeled before his Grandpa.


    "Grandpa, please," Henry pleaded. He couldn¡¯t afford to lose his job because he had a lot of bills to pay, and his father no longer gave him money.


    "Heaven!! Henry Donovan, stop pleading with me. I cannot help you, my child... I can¡¯t," Isaac Donovan said sadly. "You know, I¡¯m no longer involved with the company. I¡¯m too old to handle company matters!"


    Isaac Donovan could see the fear and worry in Henry¡¯s eyes. Still, he couldn¡¯t help because Emma and Archy handled all the company matters.


    "I understand, Grandpa. But, can you ask Aunt Emma why she fired me without warning?" Henry pleaded with a trembling voice.


    "Go sit first, then I will call your aunt..." Isaac Donovan said.


    Henry nodded and immediately stood up. After sitting down on the sofa, he urged his grandfather to call Emma. He was tense, waiting for the phone to connect, but it was unanswered until the last ring.


    ¡¯How could Aunt Emma also ignore grandfather¡¯s call, too!?¡¯ He was shocked beyond words.


    Henry¡¯s shoulders slumped.


    Countless questions began to fill his mind.


    While squeezing his hands tightly, he tried to find the answer to every question now dancing in his mind.


    What exactly is going on?


    Why did Grandpa, Dad, and his uncles suddenly have no power over the company?


    Who actually allowed Aunt Emma to replace his first uncle?


    "My child, Henry, you see now, right? I¡¯m also powerless..." Isaac Donovan said. He smiled slightly when he saw Henry¡¯s disappointed expression.


    "Grandpa..."


    Isaac felt bad witnessing the confusion flash through Henry¡¯s eyes.


    "Henry, your aunt is busy with her new job; she won¡¯t answer my call. I will try to call her later..."


    Henry¡¯s fists clenched tighter. He didn¡¯t rush to express what was on his mind, but he now stared at his Grandpa in the eyes.


    Before coming here, Henry thought his grandfather had decided to replace his first uncle as CEO and hand the position over to his aunt.


    However, Henry believed him after hearing and seeing his grandfather deny it.


    Something made him even more curious: Who was the person behind Aunt Emma?


    After a while, when Henry feels no longer as disappointed as before, he finally asks, "Grandpa, do you know who gave Aunt Emma the power to remove my first Uncle from the Company?"


    Isaac Donovan was taken aback by Henry¡¯s question. He frowned, "Why did you ask? Your father didn¡¯t tell you?"


    Henry let out a deep sigh as he shook his head.


    "No, my father didn¡¯t tell me anything. And he¡¯s been acting strangely lately. Last night, he refused to see me. Then, this morning, I discovered from his maid that he had left the house bringing nothing but clothes he wears, and no one knows where he is now."


    "What do you mean your father left, and now no one knows his whereabouts? How could that be possible?" Isaac Donovan was confused.


    "I don¡¯t know what to tell you, Grandpa. He just left me a note saying he won¡¯t return anytime soon. And the most bizarre thing is that he left his cell phone behind, which had never happened before. And now I couldn¡¯t reach him..."

 Chapter 423: Upset Him

    "What¡¯s happened to Lucas? Why did he¡ª" Isaac¡¯s words were interrupted as Henry¡¯s cell phone suddenly rang, surprising them both.


    Isaac narrowed his eyes at Henry. "Who¡¯s calling you? Your father?" He felt tense as he noticed Henry¡¯s shocked expression.


    Henry shook his head. "Not my father, but my sister," he said, stunned, while looking at Bella¡¯s name on the phone screen.


    Henry found it hard to believe that his sister was finally calling him after so many unsuccessful attempts to reach her. He failed every time he tried to call her because the phone number no longer existed.


    "Bella called you?" Isaac was surprised.


    Henry, wearing the same expression as his Grandpa, nodded, "Y-Yes... Yes... my little sister called me. Why did she suddenly call?" he was utterly dumbfounded now.


    "What are you waiting for? Hurry up! Pick up. Let¡¯s hear what she wanted to say," Isaac urged Henry. He also wanted to know why Bella wished to speak to Henry. Is it related to Lucas¡¯s disappearance?


    After Henry set the speaker on, he picked up the phone call.


    "He-Hello...Bella, is it you?" Henry asked, slightly doubting that Bella had called him.


    Henry tensely waited for Bella¡¯s voice on the other end, but it never came. He pulled his cell phone away from his ear just to check if the phone line was still connected.


    "Is the signal bad here?" Henry said softly, bringing the cell phone back to his ear. "Hello? Little sister, are you there? Is it really Bella?" He asked again.


    "Yes¡ª" Finally, Bella¡¯s voice was heard. "If not me, who else has this number?"


    Henry gritted his teeth, holding back his emotions to scold her. He didn¡¯t want to vent his anger on her, not when their grandfather sat across from him.


    He knew that his grandfather was more partial to Bella than to him. He feared his Grandpa wouldn¡¯t help him talk to Aunty Emma if he expressed anger.


    Enduring his anger toward Bella seemed to be the only option for him. His smile slowly emerged from the corners of his lips.


    Now that he was talking to her, he would try to get her to help him and their father. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Henry also suspected that his mother was currently with her. Almost a month after his mother left, he still couldn¡¯t find where she was now; they were not even communicating via phone.


    "You finally remember you have a family, Bella. Where are you? And why did you suddenly call me?" he asked, trying to maintain a calm expression, but his high pitch betrayed him.


    "I heard you wanted to see me," Bella said. "Why do you sound offended that I called you now?"


    "I¡¯m not offended," Henry hurriedly corrected her. "Yes. Yes, I want to meet you so bad, little sister. But you seem to block my number." He awkwardly smiled before continuing, "Ugh, where are you? Let me go there and see you." He said politely, not wanting his sister to be angry, and block his number again.


    Henry maintained his smile, but inwardly, he cursed her a hundred times.


    "Is Grandpa with you!?" Bella asked calmly, but her words were enough to snap Henry. He almost fell from his seat. How did she know?


    Before Henry could answer, Isaac interrupted.


    "I¡¯m here, Bella," Isaac chirped, surprised to hear that Bella was actually looking for him. "How do you know Henry was with me?"


    "Grandpa, I tried to call you, but your cell phone is inactive. I just randomly thought to call someone, and my older brother came to mind," Bella casually made a random excuse just to annoy Henry.


    The truth was, she asked Stefan to trace Henry before she made the call.


    Henry remained silent, but his annoyance flashed through his gaze.


    Isaac couldn¡¯t help but laugh, "Alright, tell me, why were you looking for me?"


    "Hey, little sister... Why did you call Grandpa? Is everything okay?" Henry asked, pretending to be friendly even though he felt annoyed to learn that his sister actually wanted to talk to Grandpa through his phone. What a weirdo!


    "Grandpa, when are you coming home?"


    "This afternoon," Isaac replied. "Did someone miss me?" he asked, picturing Dax¡¯s adorable expression in his mind.


    "Yeah, someone misses you a lot. Okay, Grandpa. I wanted to ask if you could take Henry with you. I need to talk to him." Bella asked.


    Henry and Isaac were surprised to hear Bella¡¯s request.


    "You want to talk to me? Where are you? I don¡¯t mind going there alone, especially now," Henry asked happily. This was what he had been waiting for¡ªmeeting Bella in person.


    Bella ignored Henry¡¯s question. Instead, she said, "Grandpa, can you?"


    Henry began to feel his anger running thin. ¡¯Damn this little girl! How dare she ignore me?¡¯


    "Sure, Bella, I can. I¡¯ll let you know when we get home," Isaac answered.


    "Okay, Grandpa. Thank you. I have to nap now, so I won¡¯t take your time anymore. Bye, see you..." Bella ended the call.


    Henry was utterly speechless. His little sister completely ignored him. He looked at the phone screen, now turned dark again, while clenching his teeth.


    "Alright, you go home and pack your stuff, Henry. We will meet at the airport in two hours. You don¡¯t have to worry about your ticket, just don¡¯t be late!" Isaac said and stood from his seat.


    Meanwhile, Henry is still in a trance in his seat. He can¡¯t believe what has just happened.


    ***


    Bella giggled as she placed her phone on the bedside table before climbing into bed to sleep.


    She felt sleepy, and the clean, tidy, warm white bedsheet seemingly invited her to lie down. She decided to set aside Henry¡¯s problem until her brother and grandfather arrived later.


    However, before Bella could sleep, her cell phone rang. She felt like scolding whoever was calling her, but her annoyance disappeared when she saw Tristan¡¯s name on the phone screen.


    A wide smile appeared on her face as she picked up the call.


    "Hi, beauty, how was your day?" Tristan greeted her.


    "Exciting! I had lunch with Mom, Aunty Noora, and Dax," Bella replied.


    "I¡¯m Glad to hear that. Ah, why haven¡¯t you taken a nap yet?" Tristan asked.


    "Uhm, I was about to, but then someone called me," Bella chuckled.

 Chapter 424: Why Did You Allow Him To Come?

    "Uhm, I was about to, but then someone called me," Bella chuckled.


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but laugh. "I thought you set your phone to silent?" he asked.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, Bella abandoned her nap as she no longer felt sleepy.


    "Yes, I did set it like that. But not for specific numbers like my close family and close staff," she replied.


    "Sorry, my love, if I woke you."


    "It¡¯s fine. Oh, right, how about you? Is everything alright at your office?" she asked.


    Bella could tell Tristan must be busy because he usually calls her every hour, but today, he hadn¡¯t called until now.


    "Yes, everything is fine here. I intentionally didn¡¯t call you because I know you talk with your mother."


    "I see." Bella felt warm inside when she heard that. She dismissed her curiosity. "Alright, Hubby... You can continue working and make sure to arrive before dinner."


    Tristan growled. He felt like he wanted to return home now.


    "Why?" she asked.


    "I want to return home now, cuddle with my wife..." Tristan said faintly, as if he had no energy to continue speaking, causing Bella to stifle a laugh.


    Tristan continued, "But I have an important meeting in two hours, so I could only endure my boring meeting. I promise you I will return faster."


    "Hmm, sure. Alright, I will patiently wait for you, sir," Bella responded.


    "Yes, Ma¡¯am. I will be there before dinner. I want to tell you something..." Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s voice no longer sounded as relaxed as before.


    "Something to tell me?" Bella was taken aback by his words. This was the first time Tristan had been reluctant to tell her something. "Why didn¡¯t you say it now?" She started to become curious.


    "Bella, it won¡¯t be fun if I don¡¯t see you in person," Tristan chuckled as he heard Bella¡¯s slightly sulky voice.


    "Congratulations, Mr. Tristan Sinclair, you have succeeded in making me even more curious."


    "Hahaha, alright, go continue your nap. I will return soon before you know it."


    "Hmm," Bella smiled as she ended the phone.


    ***


    After a few hours.


    Bella woke up from her nap when she heard a knock on the door.


    "Y-Yes, who?" Bella responded faintly, glancing at the window. She was surprised to see that the sky had turned orange. The night was approaching.


    ¡¯Wah! I slept too long...¡¯ she mumbled, getting up from the bed and tidying her hair into a bun. Then, she walked to open the door.


    "Aunty Noora?" She was surprised. She thought it was Dax.


    "Sorry if I woke you up, young miss."


    "It¡¯s fine. What is it?" Bella asked. "You didn¡¯t come to call me dinner, right? It¡¯s too early; we still have two hours."


    "No, miss. But, I wanted to tell you that your Grandpa had arrived with¡ª" Noora paused.


    Noora was reluctant to continue her sentence, lowering her head and avoiding eye contact with Bella. She was so annoyed to know Henry Donovan was visiting Old Donovan¡¯s house.


    Seeing the annoyance radiating from Noora¡¯s eyes, Bella knew what she wanted to say next. She didn¡¯t wait for her to finish her words but walked towards the bathroom.


    "Don¡¯t be angry, Aunty..." Bella calmly said and started to wash her face.


    Noora took a deep breath, trying to hold back her annoyance as she followed Bella to the bathroom.


    Standing outside and watching Bella wash her face, Noora continued, "Young miss, why did you allow that man to come here? I mean, he could endanger your life, young master Dax..."


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately answer Noora. She dried her face and turned to look at Aunty Noora.


    "Aunty, I didn¡¯t plan to call him here, but my mother wanted him to come. So, I had no other choice," Bella answered bitterly while moving to the walk-in closet to change her clothes.


    Bella could understand Noora¡¯s feelings now because Noora shared despicable feelings toward Henry as much as she did.


    "Where¡¯s he now?"


    "He¡¯s still in the old master house," Noora answered while helping Bella collect her used clothes and giving her a set of new, clean ones. "Do you want to ask him to come here?" she asked.


    Bella shook her head. "No. Not now. I will go to my Grandpa¡¯s house to talk to him first before bringing him to meet my mother and Dax," she explained. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I understand," Noora said, feeling relieved. She was worried Dax would be shocked to see his mother and uncle fighting in this house.


    Before long, Bella changed into her navy trousers and a white blouse.


    She turned to see Noora, who patiently stood near the walk-in closet door, waiting for her next instruction.


    "Aunty, can you please ask Geoffrey to prepare dinner for everyone, including Grandpa and Mom?" She will host dinner for her brother in his house to give him shock therapy.


    She could picture what happened when Henry saw Tristan¡ªher poor brother might faint.


    "I will," Noora nodded slightly and excused herself.


    "Aunty, wait," Bella shouted, stopping Noora. "Please take Dax to my mom¡¯s house. I¡¯ll be there later after talking to Henry."


    "Yes, young miss¡ª"


    ...


    Bella rushed out of the house and headed to her grandfather¡¯s house.


    But halfway there, she saw Bryan.


    She was stunned because seeing him in this place was rare if she took her day off.


    "Bryan, why are you here?" She asked, seeing Bryan following her from behind. "You know I¡¯m not going to the office, right?"


    "Yes, I know, ma¡¯am. But I¡¯m bored at the office, so I came here to see the scenery. Well, Sam said the lake here is gorgeous." Bryan answered randomly while avoiding eye contact with Bella. He didn¡¯t want her to know his reason for coming, to protect her, as his boss, Tristan, asked.


    Bella smiled, shook her head, and looked at the almost dark scenery as she continued walking.


    Looking at Bryan, still following her like a shadow, she asked, "Did my husband ask you to guard me here?"


    Bella was confident her guess was right because she had already told Tristan about Henry¡¯s arrival.


    Bryan calmly and respectfully smiled without saying a word. Still, his gesture and expression were clear enough for Bella to know the answer.

 Chapter 425: Talking With Henry Donovan

    Bryan didn¡¯t utter anything, but his expression was clear enough for Bella to know the answer.


    "Geez! Why are you so worried that someone will hurt me? This place is tightly guarded by my husband¡¯s people, your friends. And Bryan, my older brother, has no chance of hurting me. I will send him to hell before he does that. Trust me!"


    Bryan didn¡¯t respond; he only followed her silently.


    It didn¡¯t take long before they arrived in front of Isaac Donovan¡¯s house. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella halted and turned to see Bryan. He stopped a few steps behind her.


    "Young Madam, I¡¯m so sorry, but I am only following orders," Bryan said apologetically, still trying to avoid her sharp gaze.


    She smiled at him, "It¡¯s fine, Bryan. I understand. However, I¡¯ll go inside alone, and you don¡¯t need to follow me."


    "But, ma¡¯am... your husband instructed me to¡ª" Bryan stopped when he saw her signal to stop.


    "Trust me, my older brother has no chance to harm me. You remember how I almost crippled the gangster leader who captured Liam, right?"


    Bryan nodded. Of course, he remembered. Since that day, when he saw her handling a pistol, he no longer saw her as just the boss¡¯s wife but as his idol.


    The first time he met her, he thought she was a typical young woman from a wealthy family who couldn¡¯t do anything except spend their family fortune. But she was completely different. She could build her own company without her family¡¯s knowledge and had the skill to kick people who tried to mess with her.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am..."


    A beautiful spring-like smile adorned her face before she continued, "Well, Bryan, just for your information, what you saw that day was only half of my power. That poor man would have already entered hell if I used my full power."


    Bryan couldn¡¯t refute her words. He had already heard from Sam about how she fought four people alone.


    "Alright, you must trust me, or you will taste my kick. Go, enjoy the scenery, and I will call you if I need your help." Her tone was no longer kind but firm.


    "Hahaha, not even in my dreams...I doubt you, ma¡¯am," Bryan wanted to say, but he stopped himself. He only nodded in agreement.


    ***


    When Bella entered the living room, she saw her grandfather sitting across from Henry in the seating area. At the same time, Nick stood in the corner, looking alert.


    Taking a deep breath, Bella immediately approached them silently. However, Isaac Donovan noticed Bella and his booming voice suddenly echoed in the room.


    "Bella, you finally came," Isaac said, patting the seat beside him. "Sit here, dear..."


    Henry instantly turned to see her. He was surprised that she looked even more beautiful than the last time they met in Nova City a few months ago when she instructed her people to beat him.


    His hatred toward her slowly emerged as he remembered that day; he lost his teeth, and also his hand bones were fractured.


    ¡¯Be calm! Be calm, man! Wait until Grandpa is not around...¡¯ Henry reminded himself not to confront her.


    "Grandpa, thank you," Bella smiled at Isaac, ignoring Henry, who looked at her sharply. "You can leave us, Grandpa. I¡¯ll talk to him alone."


    Isaac immediately refused, "No, I won¡¯t let you speak to him alone. He might beat you again, Bella..."


    "Hahaha, Grandpa, why did you think that way?" Henry hurriedly chimed in. "I won¡¯t do that. Besides, I beat her in the past because she was too naughty. She needed discipline," He smiled at his Grandpa while silently gulping.


    ¡¯How could Grandpa know what I thought now? Was it too obvious that I wanted to beat her up so that Grandpa could guess it right?¡¯ He wondered before turning to look at Bella.


    "Little Sister, no worries. I won¡¯t beat you again. You¡¯ve grown up; you don¡¯t need discipline from your older brother, right?" Henry said, then grinned slightly.


    Bella nearly laughed when she heard their words. She used to be weak, but not anymore. With a single move, she could send her brother, who was almost triple her size, into the emergency room.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m grown up now," Bella smiled, trying to convince her grandfather before she looked at Henry. With her casual words, she said, "I could break his leg with a single kick. No need to worry..."


    Henry was stunned at how Bella was staring at him. He could feel her gaze was utterly different, calm, yet intimidating.


    He recalled he saw this gaze the last time they met.


    ¡¯Is she really different now?¡¯ Henry wondered. Somehow, he felt his little sister¡¯s confidence worry him.


    "Can you protect yourself?" Isaac asked hesitantly, still unsure about leaving Bella alone.


    "Yes, Grandpa," she answered confidently. "Trust me, okay!?"


    Isaac shrugged and asked, "Can I stay here? I want to hear what you both want to talk about." He looked at Bella, clearly not wanting to be rejected.


    Bella took a deep breath as she observed her grandfather¡¯s serious refusal to leave the room.


    "Okay, you can stay. But Grandpa, please don¡¯t interfere; you can only listen," she said.


    Isaac Donovan¡¯s lips widened as he smiled. "I promise I won¡¯t. Just pretend you didn¡¯t see Nick and me in the room."


    Bella said nothing, just smiled, before turning her gaze back to Henry. Her smile slowly disappeared, and her eyes flashed with menace.


    "Why are you looking for me desperately?" Bella asked coldly.


    Henry was pissed off when he heard her question. After suppressing his anger, he said, "Sister, did you know about our mother disappearing?" He said with a gloomy expression.


    Bella and the others were lost for words upon hearing Henry¡¯s question. Of course, they all knew.


    Before Bella could say anything, Henry continued with a frustrated tone.


    "Why am I looking for you? Little sister, I need your help to look after our mother. She left the house almost a month ago, and no one could contact her. Dad and I feel sad and desperate to find her, but we can¡¯t¡ª"

 Chapter 426: You Deserve My Slap, Bitch!

    Henry was attempting to gauge Bella¡¯s reaction. He was still suspicious that his mother might be with Bella.


    "Do you know where Mom is?" Henry asked again. He could see how calm she was now. Not only Bella but even their Grandpa appeared very quiet.


    "Of course I do. Mom will meet you later. But you need to know something before you meet her," Bella replied. Her impatience with her brother could be heard in her tone. She didn¡¯t want to waste time with his foolishness.


    Henry wasn¡¯t surprised to hear that. He felt excited that he had finally located their mother. Now, he could bring her home and let his father return.


    "I knew it! Only you could help Mom. Where is she? Please take me to her. I need to bring her back home because Dad is also missing; it seems he¡¯s searching for Mom."


    "Henry Donovan, do you know why Mother left home? Or are you too ignorant to open your eyes and heart to find out about the problems our parents are facing?"


    Bella looked at him with disgust.


    "What are you trying to say? Please speak in a language that I can understand!" Henry roared in annoyance, looking at Bella¡¯s displeased gaze.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration inwardly upon hearing his response. No wonder the branch led by this obtuse Henry lagged behind the others because he was too slow to acknowledge and respond to what was happening around him. Or perhaps he simply didn¡¯t care about his surroundings. Henry is seemingly a narcissist with chronic ignorance and selfishness.


    "Do you know, Henry?" Bella ignored Henry¡¯s words and talked about something else instead. "No wonder you failed to lead the company branch. You are too DUMB to lead it! And now I realize the decision to fire you was for the company¡¯s well-being, and you deserve it." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She deliberately emphasized the word ¡¯dumb,¡¯ so her brother could wake up from his delusions.


    Suddenly, Henry¡¯s calm demeanor slowly changed. His wrath was clearly visible on his red face as if he wanted to throw a hard slap at her.


    He couldn¡¯t help but shout in anger, "WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU TRYING TO..." However, when he saw his Grandpa glaring at him, his words abruptly stopped. He cleared his throat while cursing Bella in his heart before continuing, "Bella, my sister, how do you know the company fired me? Did Aunt Emma tell you about that?"


    Henry¡¯s forced smile appeared on his lips, trying not to attract their Grandpa¡¯s anger.


    "You said father left home because he wanted to look after mother?" Bella asked again, still ignoring Henry¡¯s question.


    "Yes, I said that!" Henry¡¯s voice slightly raised; he was so fumed now. "And stop asking me as if you were deflecting my question. Answer my question, please. I mean... how do you know the company has fired me!?"


    Instead of being annoyed by Henry¡¯s harsh words, Bella smiled happily because she managed to annoy Henry. She suddenly felt in a good mood to remove Henry¡¯s fake mask in front of their grandfather¡ªthis was her plan.


    But something piqued Bella¡¯s curiosity: Henry didn¡¯t know what happened in the Donovan Group. There had been a reshuffle in the company, and now she was the biggest shareholder.


    Was this man clueless or simply stupid? Bella could no longer tell the difference.


    Curious to know, Bella turned to look at her grandfather. "Grandpa, does my foolish brother not know about the company!?"


    "ARABELLA DONOVAN! Speak to¡ª" Henry roared, but his words vanished again when he saw Grandpa¡¯s furious gaze. He could only grit his teeth in annoyance.


    Henry clenched his hand in anger. If only their grandfather hadn¡¯t been in this room, he would have already slapped Bella, teaching her a lesson for being rude to him.


    "He knows," Isaac Donovan smiled at Bella. "But his brain is too shallow to understand what really happened in the company." He sighed deeply, noticing the difference in Henry and Bella¡¯s abilities in handling the situation in the company.


    Henry¡¯s annoyed expression suddenly turned sour upon hearing his Grandpa¡¯s salty words.


    ¡¯Damn it! Even Grandpa joined in mocking me?¡¯ Henry¡¯s annoyance peaked.


    He said in anger, "Grandpa!! Why are you so biased toward her? Why?" His eyes narrowed as he stared at Isaac.


    Isaac returns Henry¡¯s annoyance with a pitying gaze.


    In frustration, Henry said, "Grandpa, you are too pampering her. Can you praise me once? Not mock me? I know I lack many things, but you can¡¯t say I¡¯m shallow in front of her. She is my younger sister; she should respect me as her older brother!"


    At that moment, he no longer cared about his Grandpa helping him to talk to Aunt Emma. All he could think about was venting his disappointment to his Grandpa.


    Bella and Isaac remained calm, even expressionless, further fueling Henry¡¯s anger. Suddenly, an idea came to his mind; he wanted to show his Grandpa that no one could stop him, not even Grandpa.


    Swiftly, Henry stood from his seat and pointed his finger at Bella.


    "It seems like you need some discipline, Arabella Donovan! You are disrespecting your older brother." Henry¡¯s evil smile slowly emerged on his lips.


    Nick flinched in the corner, alerted to the danger that Henry would harm Bella. He started to move as he wanted to hold Henry, who was now trying to approach Bella, but his step halted when he saw Bella calmly standing from her seat.


    "I don¡¯t care if Grandpa is here to protect you, little sister. You deserve to be disciplined, like what I did in the past! YOU DESERVE MY SLAP!!" Henry roared in anger.


    He marched to Bella and became even angrier when he saw that she did not seem frightened of him; instead, she appeared to confront him with her fierce gaze.


    "YOU ARE SO DEAD, BITCH!!" he shouted while raising his hand to slap her hard.


    However, his powerful slap touched nothing. He saw Bella in anger, who avoided his slap so casually and calmly.


    "FUCK! YOU AVOIDED MY SLAP!?"


    Henry sent his other slap with his other hand, and instead of hitting Bella¡¯s cheek, his hand felt a grip from a hand, and it halted in the air. His bloodshot eyes were wide open in shock, looking at Bella¡¯s small hand gripping and squeezing his wrist firmly.

 Chapter 427: Unbearable Pain

    "WHAT THE HECK! You! You dare to block me!? Bella, you¡ª"


    Henry tried to pull his hand, but it wouldn¡¯t budge, as if the strongest person in the universe held it.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is her grip so strong? And how can she still stand firm after I pulled her!?¡¯ His anger increased.


    Henry¡¯s face was no longer red but dark like a storm cloud.


    Curious about Bella¡¯s power, Henry tried again with full force, pulling his hand to draw Bella near him, but he couldn¡¯t free it.


    "STOP, Henry Donovan!" Isaac said in panic when he saw Henry try to slap Bella. "If you dare lay a finger on Bella, I will never forgive¡ª"


    Isaac¡¯s sentence stopped when he saw Bella¡¯s hand gripping Henry¡¯s arm firmly, stopping his movement. Even when Henry tried to release Bella¡¯s grip, he couldn¡¯t move an inch.


    ¡¯Huh!? What happened?¡¯ Isaac shifted his annoyed gaze from Henry to Bella.


    Instantly, his eyebrow wrinkled when he saw how calm Bella was. Although she looked small before Henry, she still could parry his powerful slap.


    "B-Bella..." Isaac muttered before he remembered to ask for help. He turned to Nick. "Hurry, Nick, help her..." he ordered his butler, standing not far from his grandchildren.


    However, before Nick had time to move, he heard a howl of pain come from Henry¡¯s lips.


    Isaac and Nick turned to look at him, and they both gasped in surprise. They saw Bella still holding Henry¡¯s hand, crushing his bones with her firm grip.


    Isaac wondered, ¡¯What had happened? Since when did Bella have so much energy? How could she grip Henry¡¯s hand so strongly that it caused him pain?¡¯ He couldn¡¯t believe what he was witnessing.


    The tension in the room increased as Isaac and Nick were horrified by what was happening before them. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Henry¡¯s howl of pain grew louder. He wanted to curse Bella but couldn¡¯t speak; the pain was unbearable.


    "You want to slap me?" Bella¡¯s icy tone rang in the room. "I told you before, you don¡¯t have a chance to do that, Henry! Now, you taste my slap..." she said before slapping Henry with her other hand.


    "SMACK!"


    Her powerful slap was hard enough to make Henry¡¯s body stagger, almost falling on the hard marble when Bella finally released her grip.


    Henry screamed in pain even louder while stroking his hot cheek. It was so hot it felt like someone had just put an iron there.


    Stroking his hot cheek while trying to stand up straight, his eyes stared at Bella.


    "You¡¯ll pay for this, Bella! How dare you fight me?!!" Henry no longer held back. He cursed in annoyance while moving forward to hit Bella once more.


    Bella was speechless, looking at her brother with his killing intent, marching to her, "Damn it, Henry Donovan! You didn¡¯t learn anything after I beat you, huh..." she hissed.


    She no longer cared about her brother and sent her powerful roundhouse kick, landing on Henry¡¯s lower side chest with a loud crack sound, causing him to stagger a few steps back, starting to lose his balance and look slightly delirious, before his massive body fell on the floor. Face first! And it hits the floor so hard!


    "Thud!"


    Another howl of pain reverberated as Henry cried out and curled up on the floor. And then he immediately tried to stand up.


    "You, how dare you kick me, you bit..." Henry¡¯s sentence was cut short as he coughed, spewing a mouthful of fresh blood.


    "Cough... cough..." Another fresh spurt of blood came out of his mouth. His voice was lost entirely, unable to make a sound anymore, realizing Bella¡¯s kick had hurt him badly. He might have an internal injury.


    The pain that had previously disappeared because of his irritation with his sister now slowly reappeared, tormenting him again; the pain became even more excruciating.


    He had never felt pain like this before, which left him helpless; he could only groan while pressing his injured spleen.


    Isaac and Nick froze in their places, their eyes shifting between Bella and Henry. They were both wondering how the petite Bella could possess such immense power that it had left the towering Henry injured and slumped on the floor.


    Just as Isaac was about to speak, Bella¡¯s calm voice cut through the tension, "Bryan..."


    Bella smiled upon seeing Bryan, who was startled in his hiding place.


    "Y-Yes, ma¡¯am..." Bryan stammered, taken aback by Bella¡¯s awareness of his presence. He had been sneaking into the house and hiding in the corner, ready to help her immediately. Bryan had wanted to intervene when Henry had threatened her. Still, he held back, realizing his lady boss was in her fighting stance and ready to throw a kick at the man before her.


    "You can come out and check on him for me," Bella said. "Is he dying or not?"


    Bryan emerged from his hiding place, flashing an awkward smile at her. He moved closer and examined Henry. After a few moments, he straightened up, standing next to Henry as he gazed at Bella.


    "Young Madam, he will not die. He only suffered a fracture around his spleen, but nothing gravely dangerous. And it looks like some of his teeth are missing from the falling or your slap, not your kick. If I¡¯m not mistaken, if we bring him to the hospital now, he might only need a recovery period of around two or three months to heal completely," Bryan reported calmly, shocking Isaac and Nick.


    Henry almost fainted when he heard Bryan¡¯s words. His face turned even paler when he heard about his injury.


    ¡¯Hospital? Another many months to heal?¡¯ Henry couldn¡¯t believe that. It felt like the goddess of luck had really left him.


    How did he have to go through this for the second time? His teeth clenched, and his eyes stared angrily at Bella.


    He badly wanted to get up and pull her hair, venting his anger, but he couldn¡¯t move.


    Every time he moved, he felt like thousands of sharp nails pierced his bones and chest. Breathing is starting to hurt.


    He could only express his anger at that moment through his sharp, dagger-like gaze.

 Chapter 428: He Needs To Suffer More

    Bella was left speechless when she saw the anger in Henry¡¯s eyes directed at her.


    ¡¯Jeez! Instead of being mindful of his actions after suffering my kick, he¡¯s still holding back his anger towards me. My brother is a dribbling idiot with murderous intent!¡¯


    Bella took a deep breath and turned to Bryan, asking, "Are you sure he only needs two or three months to heal?"


    "Yes, ma¡¯am," Bryan answered quickly. "But his healing process can be faster if he gets the best medical care in our country. Well, if my guess is right, maybe a month or less than two," he explained.


    Bryan was worried that his exaggerated explanation would upset his young madam. Maybe she wanted her older brother to heal faster.


    Bella frowned slightly, looking at Bryan; she said, "My worry is not that. I don¡¯t need him to recover faster. He needs to suffer more." Her words were enough to make Bryan shocked to hear her reaction.


    Henry¡¯s jaw dropped in super shock when he heard how cruel and heartless his sister¡¯s words were. He never realized his petite sister could be that cruel. But that thinking just makes his killing intent toward Bella worsen. He started cursing her again, even though the nameless pain was still torturing him.


    Isaac and Nick are also surprised at how much Bella intends to punish Henry. They stood side by side, curious about what Bella wanted to do to her older brother.


    Bella¡¯s cynical-looking smile slowly appeared on her lips as she looked at her miserable brother, who was still lying on the floor.


    "Bryan, I need you to break his leg, too. He needs to stay at home all year long. Ensure he doesn¡¯t go anywhere because my brother and his evil mind here always attract bad things and trouble whenever he appears in public places. So I¡¯m just being kind to help him avoid trouble and make him realize he has been horrible." She said casually; however, everyone who heard her was shocked.


    Henry¡¯s eyes widened in horror as he looked at Bella. He didn¡¯t expect Bella to think like that.


    ¡¯Is she only trying to frighten her brother?¡¯ Bryan wondered while staring at Bella in the eyes. Seeing her serious expression, he instantly felt pity for Henry Donovan.


    "Ma¡¯am, do you really want me to break his leg? Seriously?" Bryan tried to make sure he didn¡¯t hear it wrong.


    "Hmm, yeah. Go ahead. But make it bloodless." Bella smiled at Bryan; she could guess his doubts and worry. "Don¡¯t hold yourself back, Bryan, and no need to worry about my older brother¡¯s wrath. I¡¯m being nice here. I only wanted to help him, to return what he asked for." Bella said.


    She found Bryan¡¯s expression funny.


    "Y-Yes...I will," Bryan stammered slightly. He was nervous about carrying out her order because Isaac Donovan was in the room.


    Bryan turned his gaze to Henry. When he saw the killing intent in Henry¡¯s gaze toward his lady boss, he no longer held himself back. This stupid Henry was indeed asking for a beating. How dare he still have anger toward his boss?


    Isaac was utterly shocked to hear that. He had often seen Bryan guarding Bella, but this was the first time he saw him in action. His icy demeanor was enough to worry him when he looked at Henry.


    Even though Isaac agreed Henry deserved his punishment for being evil toward Bella and maybe to so many other people, he also didn¡¯t want Henry to become crippled or even die.


    How could he allow his granddaughter to have a criminal record? He wouldn¡¯t allow it.


    "Bella, please don¡¯t do that. Please ask Bryan to stop!" Isaac¡¯s loud voice halted Bryan from sending his powerful kick to Henry¡¯s leg.


    Bryan looked at Bella for confirmation on whether to stop or continue teaching this useless brat, Henry.


    When Bryan saw his young madam nod, confirming her Grandpa¡¯s request, he immediately dismissed his plan to cripple Henry. He stepped back a few meters, observing in the corner. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don¡¯t stain your kind heart and mind from killing a despicable man like your brother, my dear. You are far better than him." Isaac continued as he looked at Bella with his loving smile. He could feel how anger almost swallowed Bella.


    Isaac understood Bella but would blame himself if he let her become cruel.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m sorry. Thank you for bringing me away from my ultimate rage." Bella barely smiled; she was still struggling to maintain her anger.


    "It¡¯s fine, dear. I must do so because of how much I love you, Granddaughter." Isaac said as he returned to the sofa before continuing, "He already deserved the pain you gave him."


    Bella let out a deep sigh. Her hand was hanging beside her, still clenched into a fist without realizing it.


    She looked at Nick and said, "Uncle Nick, can you call my mother to come here? And ask Noora to bring Dax to my house; don¡¯t let him come here."


    "Yes, young miss..." Nick said before he left the room.


    Her eyes followed Nick until he disappeared from her line of sight. Then, she turned to look at Henry, who was still curled up on the floor, groaning in pain.


    Bella walked towards him and stopped two steps away, just enough to see his frightened face clearly.


    "W-What do you want?" Henry¡¯s voice trembled. "Y-You want to beat me again? Y-You are so cruel, sister..."


    Bella pinched her brow, feeling an instant headache speaking to her stupid brother.


    "Brother, I never meant to beat you like this. However, you provoked me first. How can I let you hit me? And I could see deep in your eyes how much you want me dead!"


    Henry didn¡¯t utter anything because what she said was indeed true. He provoked her. And he did want her dead.


    "If you hit me and I didn¡¯t stop you, believe me, you would taste my husband¡¯s anger; he might send you straight to your coffin." Bella wasn¡¯t making it up.

 Chapter 429: Knowing The Truth Is Painful

    "If you hit me and I didn¡¯t stop you, believe me, you would taste my husband¡¯s anger; he might send you straight to your coffin."


    Bella wasn¡¯t exaggerating. She knew Tristan would have done more than she had if he had known what had happened here.


    Seeing the fear and confusion in Henry¡¯s eyes, she continued speaking.


    "You know what brother? Earlier, I had wanted to bring you to our mother¡¯s house and welcome you with a warm dinner at my home, but once again, you ruined that opportunity."


    Henry gritted his teeth in silence.


    "Gosh! I suggest you work on managing your anger, or you will end up like our father¡ªor worse."


    Henry¡¯s ability to speak was slowly fading. The unbearable pain tortured him, making him wish just to pass out so that the pain in his chest and hands wouldn¡¯t be felt. However, Bella¡¯s words shocked him.


    Countless questions were now racing through Henry¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯What the fuck!? Did Bella get married? To whom? Since when? And what happened to our father? Did she also know about our father¡¯s disappearance?


    How? What the hell happened here?¡¯


    He pressed his anger and politely asked, "What do you mean, little sister? Please explain further¡ª"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer Henry¡¯s question. Instead, she turned to Bryan.


    "Please help him lie on the sofa and call an ambulance to take him to the hospital," Bella instructed before joining her grandfather in the seating area.


    Despite Bella¡¯s intense dislike for Henry, she still felt sorry for him. Well, not necessarily because of him but because of their mother.


    Although their mother didn¡¯t express it openly, Bella knew that, as a mother herself, their mother had strong feelings for Henry and would forgive him even if he made a mistake in the past or the future.


    Bryan immediately did Bella¡¯s order, helping Henry after asking two servants at the end of the room to help him. He couldn¡¯t carry Henry¡¯s massive body alone.


    "AARGHHH..." Henry¡¯s howl of pain echoed throughout the room as Bryan and the others carried his large body to the three-seater sofa.


    Bella pretended to casually pick her ear when she heard Henry¡¯s ear-splitting scream. She couldn¡¯t believe a grown man as big as Henry could cry like a baby. Gosh! How shameless!


    After she took a deep breath and tried to suppress her urge to stuff the sneakers into his mouth, she said, "Can you stop crying like a hungry baby, Henry Donovan?? You should be ashamed of your big body...Geez!!"


    Henry¡¯s cries of pain slowly faded as he looked sharply at Bella.


    "This hurts, alright! You¡¯ve never felt pain like this...that¡¯s why you don¡¯t know!" Henry answered between his tears.


    Bella chuckled. She couldn¡¯t believe she heard those words from his filthy mouth.


    "Well, brother, that¡¯s how I felt when you hit me in the past. Or your frequent victims..." Bella looked at him in disgust. "I just want you to feel it too, brother, to remind you that what you did in the past was very evil. Very cruel!"


    "This is the second time you¡¯ve done this to me, bitch! I know how much it hurts..." Henry wanted to answer her like that, but all his words rolled back into his throat when he saw her sharp eyes.


    It was sharp enough to send a shiver through his veins. Henry swallowed hard, then gritted his teeth silently while venting his anger inwardly.


    Silence!


    No one said anything, but the tension was still there. Bella¡¯s sharp gaze was still on Henry as if she were torturing and punishing her brother¡¯s body and soul with her eyes.


    Not long after, Isaac Donovan finally broke the silence.


    "Henry," Isaac Donovan¡¯s soft, exhausted voice rang in the room. The way Isaac says Henry¡¯s name shows the Oldman¡¯s disappointment and anger after observing his only grandson, Henry Donovan.


    Isaac saw no guilt or regret for all Henry¡¯s cruel actions in the past, even though Bella had already reminded him to the point of making him feel the pain of being physically hit.


    After getting Henry¡¯s attention, Isaac continued his words:


    "You have been spoiled by me and your father all this time, which has made you grow up like this. You know, Henry? Just because you are my only grandson who uses my name behind yours, you have become arrogant," he paused for another long, deep breath. "Henry, I no longer have high hopes for you or your father."


    Henry felt like his heart was about to shatter when he heard how deeply his Grandpa¡¯s words cut. This was the first time he had heard him say that he no longer had hope for him.


    ¡¯Grandpa gave up on me? Oh no...oh no. Nooo...!¡¯ Henry wanted to wake up and kneel before him, but he couldn¡¯t move his body at all. He could only stare at him with a miserable gaze, his mouth trembling as he held back his emotions.


    "Remember this, Henry. What you hear about the company may be different from the truth. Do you still believe the company is dependable? You are mistaken, my child," Isaac¡¯s voice was no longer gentle. It was sharp, sounding like a harsh warning directed at Henry.


    "Instead of expecting from Donovan Group, you should follow your sister¡¯s footsteps and be independent! But you failed even when I allowed you to lead a small branch."


    Isaac took a deep breath. Disappointed? He had been disappointed too often with his grandson, Henry. However, in the past, he had not interfered too much with Lucas, educating Henry. This is one of his regrets now.


    "While your little sister, Bella? She did not rely on the company, not even her parents¡¯ money, to make her as successful as she is now. She built her business empire without us knowing, with only her ability, her brain..."


    Henry, eyebrows wrinkled, tried to look at Bella. He saw her smile faintly without looking up from her cell phone as if she was nothing to him.


    He became curious about what really happened.


    Why did he not know anything about his sister?


    What success was their Grandpa referring to?


    She has a husband!?


    Does she also have a business empire!?


    However, despite so many questions dancing in his mind, he put aside all of them.


    Now, he needed to do something: ask for forgiveness from his Grandpa. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 430: Forgive Me

    Now, he needed to do something: ask for forgiveness from his Grandpa.


    "Grandpa..." Henry finally spoke, although his voice was barely audible, and his throat felt sore. He swallowed a few times to wet his throat before continuing his words.


    "I¡¯m sorry, really sorry, Grandpa. I disappointed you, my father, and my mother... I know I was wrong, and I can¡¯t help the company when it suffers like it is now. What I did in the past, troubling you and my parents, was merely because I wanted to help. But, I¡¯m too stupid, terribly stupid¡ª"


    Isaac was surprised to hear Henry express his guilt. However, he still doubted his sincerity.


    Isaac let out a deep sigh before deciding to explain to his grandson what had really happened in the company. He hoped that if his grandson knew the truth, it would shake him up and bring him back to reality, just like it did with his father, Lucas.


    "Henry, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard that your uncle is no longer the CEO of the Donovan Group," Isaac said.


    Henry nodded faintly, "Y-Yes..."


    "Not just your first uncle, but they also let go of your father and Uncle Thomas," Isaac added.


    Isaac¡¯s last words were enough to shock Henry, "WH-WHAT? They also fired my father and third uncle?"


    Isaac Donovan nodded; he continued, "Yes, my grandson, yes...Not only have they fired them all, but your uncles no longer have shares in the company. Simply put, the Donovan Group owner has now changed. The majority shareholder is no longer Donovan but someone else."


    Henry felt like lightning struck his head. Even his uncles and his father lost their shares? It¡¯s hard for him to believe that. How could it be? S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandpa, are you trying to frighten me?"


    Isaac shook his head while smiling. "I don¡¯t have time and energy to do that to you, Henry. What I¡¯m telling you now is the reality of Donovan Group. So, stop your plan to depend on the company."


    Slowly, all the strange things that Henry had seen in his father in the past few days reappeared in his mind like video clips:


    His father suddenly stopped his people from looking for his missing mother.


    His father fired his personal assistant, who lived in their house, just to make his mother jealous.


    His father no longer wanted to meet him.


    His father cried silently in his bedroom.


    His father suddenly left the house without bringing his cell phone, and even his driver and personal assistant did not know where he was.


    After hearing his grandfather¡¯s words, Henry¡¯s mind became clearer.


    Henry realized his father had nothing to be proud of, such as position, power, or even his woman. Everything had vanished, and he decided to leave everything behind.


    ¡¯Father, you are so heartless! How could you leave me because of all of that? Why, father? Why did you do that?¡¯ Henry asked himself, trying to find the answer to all the questions now dancing in his mind.


    But the more he thinks about it, the more it hurts his head.


    ¡¯God, why did this happen to my family!? Why did you take everything away in such a short time? My father, my mother, my family¡¯s wealth and future...¡¯


    Henry took a deep breath as he felt his breathing becoming short and heavy, and his injury became more torturous. When he thought he could no longer hold this nameless pain, suddenly, he remembered something.


    ¡¯Mother! Earlier, did my sister say she knew where Mother was now?¡¯ Henry wondered while looking at Bella. Before he could ask Bella about their mother, Isaac Donovan interrupted him.


    "Henry, my grandson, what I¡¯m trying to tell you now is to stop acting like you are in the past. Wake up, face your harsh reality, and become a decent person. You are still young; you still have a chance to become a better person and be successful with your own hands."


    Henry said nothing, but his expression became gloomy. The mirage that always appeared in his mind slowly collapsed after hearing his grandfather¡¯s words aimed right at his heart. It was all true! He had been living in his delusional world all this time.


    Henry could feel his heart aching and was utterly upset with himself. However, he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Before long, Henry¡¯s eyes became blurry, and tears began to wet the corners of his eyes. He closed his eyes to hide his silent cry, embarrassed to meet his grandfather¡¯s and little sister¡¯s gaze.


    He wished to vanish, like his father did, leaving everything behind.


    However, he faintly heard a familiar voice calling his name¡ªthe voice he had really missed for the past few weeks: his mother¡¯s.


    "Mom..." Henry whispered while trying to open his eyes, looking toward the voice he heard.


    He was surprised to see his mother standing there, looking pale and thin. Her hair had turned more gray; he no longer saw any trace of dark hair.


    But something else hurt him even more. He was seeing his mother staring at him with red eyes. The way she looked at him while she was crying hurt him even more.


    "Mom, I finally found you. Why did you leave us? Why¡ª" asked Henry while holding back his sobs. But not long after, the pain he felt in his arms and lower ribs felt excruciating again. Torturing him!


    "Henry, I¡¯m sorry..." Natalie said while walking toward her son.


    "No! Please don¡¯t say that. I should be the one apologizing to you, Mom. I..." His voice slowly faded away, and his vision slowly darkened. He no longer saw anything but darkness.


    "HENRY! What happened to you?" Natalie screamed, running towards her son, who was lying motionless on the sofa.


    Bella and Isaac appeared shocked. They quickly got up and approached Henry.


    ¡¯Is he dead?¡¯ Bella wondered as she checked for a pulse behind Henry¡¯s ear. Her face tensed as she looked at her worried mother.


    "What¡¯s wrong with your brother? Why isn¡¯t he moving?" Natalie asked, waiting for Bella to respond.


    Bella didn¡¯t answer her but instead looked at Bryan. "Where¡¯s the ambulance?"


    "They should be here in three minutes. No, I think they¡¯re at the gate now," Bryan replied, glancing outside.


    Faintly, the ambulance sirens could be heard in the distance.

 Chapter 431: You Did The Right Things!

    Faintly, the ambulance sirens could be heard in the distance.


    The room became extremely tense. Bella and the others were now looking toward the exit as they saw Bryan and Nick rushing outside to await the paramedics¡¯ arrival.


    "Bella," Natalie grabbed Bella¡¯s hand in worry. "What happened to Henry? Why does he seem to be in pain? He looks pale, and his lips are purple. Is he alright?"


    Natalie¡¯s trembling voice failed to hide her fright. While her hand gripped Bella tightly, her eyes still stared at her son in horror.


    "Mom, he is¡ª" Before Bella could finish her sentence, several quick footsteps were heard coming towards the living room. She saw Bryan leading two paramedics with their equipment, swiftly entering the room.


    Natalie¡¯s grip tightened as she saw the paramedics approaching. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mom, let the paramedics help him," Bella said, pulling her mother into the corner.


    Reluctantly, Natalie nodded and followed Bella, but her eyes never left Henry.


    As Bella felt her mother¡¯s cold hand gripping her arm tightly, she smiled gently and patted her hand. Leaning closer to her, she said, "Mom, my brother just fainted. He will be okay..."


    Slowly, Natalie¡¯s face relaxed. Her eyes were not as tense as before, and all that was left was worry.


    "Bella, are you sure your brother is okay?"


    "Hmm, he is¡ª"


    "But what happened to him before? Why did he suddenly faint just like that?" Natalie asked. She still couldn¡¯t understand why Henry was lying on the sofa, looking in pain. "Is he sick?" she asked while trying to sound calm, worrying about distracting the paramedics.


    "Mom, No. Henry is not sick," Bella shook her head, smiling awkwardly. She tried to find the right words to explain how she beat her older brother. She didn¡¯t want to anger her mother.


    "So he¡¯s not sick? Then why did he faint like that?" Natalie was even more confused by her short answer.


    Bella took a deep breath before she answered, "Mom, I had to slap and kick my brother. And I think I hit him quite hard."


    "YOU WHAT?" Natalie shouted in shock, but seconds later, she hurriedly covered her mouth with her hand when she saw the paramedics and the others now glancing at her. She smiled while trying to gesture to them to continue helping Henry.


    After being ignored by everyone, Natalie leaned closer to Bella and whispered, "Bella, you said you beat your older brother? Impossible! How could he be in that miserable state!?"


    Natalie found it hard to believe that her daughter, who was three times smaller than Henry, could beat him to the point where he couldn¡¯t get up or even faint.


    "Hmm, I¡¯m, mom¡­" Bella smiled thinly at her mother¡¯s skeptical gaze.


    This is why Bella didn¡¯t want her family to know about her martial arts ability. The main reason is that no one would believe that her small frame could handle challenging and perilous situations like what happened earlier. And they always looked at her skeptically.


    "No way! Your body is so small. How can you beat a grown man double, no, triple your size? He even fainted?" Natalie shook her head lightly, doubting Bella¡¯s claim. She continued, "You asked Bryan to do that, right!?"


    Bella sighed deeply. She knew it was useless to explain now. She tried to distract her mother, saying, "Mom, you should stop asking about how I beat him and instead ask why I beat him."


    Natalie patted her forehead lightly as if blaming herself for forgetting about that. "You¡¯re right; why did you hit him?"


    "Because he wanted to slap me in front of Grandpa. I¡¯m sorry, Mom, I can¡¯t let him beat me, or my older brother will never see the sun again if Tristan knows about it¡ª" Bella¡¯s words paused when she saw her mother¡¯s sharp gaze, annoyed at Henry. "You know how Tristan pampered me so much, right...Mom?"


    "Hmm, I know! Well, your brother deserved it! You did the right thing, Bella. I¡¯ll scold him if he wakes up!" Natalie said in anger that Henry had dared to slap his little sister.


    Not long after, the paramedics finally finished giving Henry first aid. They both looked in Natalie and Bella¡¯s direction and started to explain what had happened to Henry.


    "Mr. Donovan passed out. We have checked and found that his condition is stable. We also found out that he has suffered some internal injuries that require immediate treatment and surgery..." explained the paramedic before they excused themselves, leaving for the hospital for Henry to receive urgent care.


    Bella felt relieved that her brother would survive.


    "Thank you, gentlemen..." Bella said. And let them bring Henry.


    Natalie insisted on accompanying Henry to the hospital, and despite Bella¡¯s concerns, she couldn¡¯t stop her. She could only ask Bryan and Noora to join her for support, even though they were planning to visit Tristan¡¯s family hospital.


    Taking a deep breath, Bella looked at her grandfather, who had returned to his seat on the sofa. She felt guilty as she observed her Grandpa¡¯s somber expression.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m sorry I caused Henry so much trouble and ruined our dinner plans," Bella said apologetically.


    Isaac smiled at Bella before responding, "Bella, it¡¯s okay. This is not your fault. He brought his own trouble, so let him face the consequences. You should go home now and be with Dax. The little guy must be confused about what happened here."


    Bella was startled, remembering her son. She stood up immediately, but before leaving the room, she looked at her grandfather and said, "Grandpa, come join us for dinner. Geoffrey has already asked the chef to prepare dinner for the whole family, but with what just happened, no one will attend."


    Isaac frowned slightly as if he were thinking about something. After a few more seconds, he smiled at Bella.


    "Bella, I hope you don¡¯t mind if I pass dinner. I plan to visit Henry in the hospital, too. I need to talk to your brother again to let him know that everything has changed," Isaac said, feeling weighed down by everything. He knew he couldn¡¯t rest easy until he sorted it out.


    Bella didn¡¯t press her Grandpa. She could only nod before leaving the house.

 Chapter 432: He Knows?

    Bella rushed home with a multitude of concerns weighing on her mind.


    It would be wrong to say she wasn¡¯t worried about Henry¡¯s health condition. She was! She was terribly afraid he might die.


    Seeing her older brother faint made her realize he was too weak for someone who had always been violent since childhood.


    Now, she could only trust what the paramedic had said earlier, that Henry had fainted because he was too exhausted, his energy drained from enduring the pain. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The internal injury he had might not be life-threatening, but they needed a thorough medical checkup to confirm this.


    While walking to her house, Bella took out her cell phone. She needed to contact Bryan, so she decided to send him a text message asking for an update on her brother¡¯s condition.


    However,


    Before Bella could send the text to Bryan, her steps halted when a hand touched her waist and pulled her behind. In just a second, before she could react, someone hugged her from behind.


    Bella¡¯s smile slowly appeared on her lips as she recognized the familiar scent coming from the person behind her.


    "Tristan...you startled me," Bella whispered as she tried to see her husband over her shoulder. "Why did you come from behind?" She turned to face him and returned her cell phone to her pocket.


    She had been too immersed in Henry¡¯s matter, causing her to lower her guard, and she didn¡¯t realize Tristan was already behind her.


    "I¡¯m worried about you," Tristan¡¯s hoarse voice surprised Bella.


    ¡¯He knows?¡¯ Bella felt her heart sink. She didn¡¯t want Tristan to know Henry had almost slapped her.


    Before Bella could ask, Tristan suddenly pulled her into his arms. Unable to see his face, Bella took a deep breath and waited for him to speak. She leaned her head on his chest.


    However, after a few seconds passed, Tristan remained silent. Bella could sense his anger as he took a few deep breaths.


    After some time, Bella finally broke the silence between them. "How do you know something happened here?" she asked.


    She clearly remembered not informing even a bit to him about the incident between her and Henry.


    ¡¯Could it be Bryan who informed him?¡¯ Bella wondered. She started to become suspicious of Bryan.


    "I know what you¡¯re thinking, dear. No, I didn¡¯t know about it from Bryan. I heard an ambulance siren when I called Bryan, so I assumed something might have happened. I asked the driver to speed to your Grandpa¡¯s house, but before I rushed in, I saw you walking alone, heading to our house. Before that, I worried something had happened to you, Bella."


    Bella pulled her body away from him to look him in the eyes.


    "Ugh, hubby, you know I can defend myself. Besides, if anything bad happened, Bryan would¡¯ve called you. Am I right? It¡¯s my brother who had a terrible thing happen to him. I beat him hard and broke a few of his ribs. So we needed an ambulance to bring him to the hospital."


    Tristan was surprised to hear that, but later, his smile slowly appeared on his lips as he took her hand. He squeezed it gently before saying, "Why did you beat your older brother?" He knew his wife wouldn¡¯t use violence unless someone did something horrible to her.


    Looking at the tension in Bella¡¯s gaze, Tristan knew her answer even though she didn¡¯t say anything.


    "Hubby, let¡¯s go home now. Dax is alone in the house," Bella said without directly answering his question. She walked toward their house before Tristan could respond.


    Tristan chuckled; he knew his wife was trying to avoid his question. He immediately followed her with his wide stride and walked beside her, putting his hand on her shoulder.


    "I know something happened; what is it?"


    Bella quickly glanced at him, "Dax might be confused because he knows I will introduce him to his uncle today, but we have not yet come, even now at dinnertime." She still avoided him.


    Tristan nodded as he hurriedly stepped inside their house, worrying about their son. As soon as they arrived home, Dax greeted them excitedly in the family room.


    "Mom, Dad, why are there only the two of you? Where¡¯s Great-grandpa? Grandma and Uncle Henry?" Dax asked while looking behind his parents, trying to find the others. A thin wrinkle slowly appeared on his forehead when he didn¡¯t see anyone else.


    Bella was unsure how to explain it to Dax, as she had promised him they would have a family dinner tonight.


    She silently took a deep breath and sat down to speak to him.


    However, Tristan picked up Dax and carried him in his arms before she could say anything.


    "Buddy, something important is happening at your Great-grandpa¡¯s house. Your granny and the others had to leave, so they won¡¯t be able to dine with us tonight," Tristan said as he walked to the seating area and sat on the sofa.


    "Ooo, is someone sick? I heard an ambulance siren," Dax said.


    "Yes, your uncle. But don¡¯t worry, he will get healthy soon," Bella responded as she sat beside Dax.


    "Tonight, we¡¯ll be having dinner, just the three of us," Tristan said, "Alright, please wait here with mommy. Let me change first before we start our dinner..." He said, and then he left for the second floor.


    ***


    Meanwhile, Sam and Harper sat in the VIP room at a Japanese restaurant near the Quantum Capital building. A few minutes passed, and they both remained silent, causing the tension in the room to grow stronger.


    Their eyes were fixed on the tightly closed door, waiting for someone to appear. However, after another minute, the person they were waiting for had not yet arrived.


    Harper took a deep breath while looking at Sam sitting opposite her.


    "Sam, are you sure Sean will come?" Harper couldn¡¯t help but ask. She was so tense that even after arriving at the VIP room, she felt like a hurricane was raging in her heart.


    Harper was utterly nervous about meeting Sean again.

 Chapter 433: Sean Spencer Finally Comes

    "Yes, he¡¯s already on the way," Sam answered with a smile.


    Sam found it amusing that Harper looked so tense. "Relax, boss. He might be frightened when he sees you so agitated."


    "What do you mean?" Harper asked.


    "You look like you want to swallow him whole the moment he arrives and exits from his car."


    Harper rolled her eyes. "O yeah? Stop teasing me! I¡¯m worried that he won¡¯t show up. This is my only chance to meet him before I fly back to New York tomorrow." She was afraid she would miss the opportunity to express her feelings to Sean.


    Sam chuckled.


    Before long, a faint knock on the door could be heard.


    Sam immediately stood up and opened the door; Sean appeared before him.


    "I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m arriving late. I drove as fast as I could, but there was an important matter I had to take care of before coming here," Sean said, feeling wrong about being late for their scheduled meeting.


    "Yeah, sure. It¡¯s fine, man. You¡¯re not late at all. Let¡¯s come inside," Sam said, smiling at him. "I already ordered. You came at the right time; the server was about to serve."


    "Thanks, man. Well, let¡¯s¡ª" Sean¡¯s sentence stopped as he saw Harper in the room. His cheerful expression slowly turned to confusion. He didn¡¯t remember Sam telling him that Harper would come with him.


    His steps halted before he entered the room, and he turned his gaze to Sam.


    "Sam, you two...?" he whispered, curious why Harper was there.


    "Ah, sorry for not telling you," Sam said faintly when Sean¡¯s expression turned frosty. "I came here with Harper. She happened to be in town and would only return to New York tomorrow, and she had nothing else to do tonight. So, I, uh, I thought to myself, why not invite her to join us for dinner? So I invited her to have dinner with us."


    Sam felt terrible about this, knowing Sean dislikes socializing with others.


    "I hope it¡¯s fine with you, man. And I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you ahead." Sam said again.


    Sean shook his head before smiling at Sam. "What? No, no. Nothing like that. I¡¯m just wondering if you two are dating?"


    "WHAT? Pffft!" Sam almost choked. "No... No... of course not." He immediately explained, "We are not dating. She¡¯s an excellent friend, and I simply wanted to ask her to join us."


    Hearing Sean¡¯s comment, Harper almost fainted. ¡¯Oh my goodness, why did he think of Sam and me as a couple?¡¯


    Afraid that Sean had misunderstood the situation and jeopardized her chance, Harper rushed to explain.


    "Sean, we¡¯re not dating. Sam is like a big brother to me. There is no way I can date him. You don¡¯t have to worry about that. I¡¯m single." she said with an alluring smile.


    Sean could only laugh inwardly and felt amused by his own thoughts. "Oh, sorry!" he said softly, realizing his mistake.


    "No, no. It¡¯s not your fault. It¡¯s Brother Sam¡¯s fault for not telling you. Anyway, you two, take a seat. Let¡¯s eat," she gestured for them to sit.


    Sean sat across from Harper, with his back facing the entrance, while Sam sat beside him.


    Not long after, the waiter came to serve their dinner. While the waiter served, Sam tried to lighten the mood because he could feel Sean¡¯s awkwardness with Harper around.


    "Sean, did you say you were doing something important before coming here? Any new assignment?" Sam asked. This is the only topic that comes to his mind now.


    "Yeah! Yeah." Sean answered before drinking his tea.


    "I¡¯m sorry, man. I dragged you here to have dinner with me," Sam said, feeling guilty. "I wouldn¡¯t have asked you to come if I knew."


    "Oh, no worries, Sam. You know my work, right? You¡¯ve been there. Anyway, may I ask something? It¡¯s just a trivial matter about this restaurant. You know this place is owned by my family, right?" Sean asked with curiosity, hinting at his tone.


    Sam nodded before answering, "Yes, this is your family¡¯s restaurant. That¡¯s why I chose this place, the more reason for you to come, besides that this place is also near my office."


    "Ah, I see."


    The room became silent again as they started to eat.


    Sam began out of friendly words and confused. He didn¡¯t know what to say to get Sean to engage in a conversation. Sean seemed uncomfortable talking about the military when Harper was around. He tried to signal Harper to speak, but she was busy chewing her food and didn¡¯t seem to care about her image in front of Sean.


    He wanted to remind Harper about her goal to meet Sean. Still, he hesitated, worried that Sean would realize their true intention. He continued to eat while trying to find the right moment to leave the room.


    However, before long...


    Sam¡¯s cell phone rang, and Stefan¡¯s voice was heard on the other end.


    "What are you waiting for? Leave the room now. Pretend you want to speak about important things," Stefan said.


    Sam was confused when he heard those words but realized what Stefan meant a few seconds later. He nodded.


    "Yes, sir!" Sam said, then he looked at Sean, who was also enjoying his food. "Sean, I¡¯m sorry, but I have to go out to talk about office matters," he said, pointing at his cell phone. "I¡¯ll be back soon."


    "Sure, man," Sean nodded.


    After Sam left the room, the awkwardness grew thicker. Sean didn¡¯t know what to say, so he continued finishing his dinner.


    Meanwhile, Harper was too busy figuring out what she wanted to say to Sean.


    The room fell silent. All that could be heard was the sound of cutlery hitting the plate and the faint music from the hidden speakers on the ceiling. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Harper was upset with herself because she found it hard to start a conversation with Sean. She felt too nervous to say anything, and every sentence she had thought of faded from her mind, leaving her feeling empty.

 Chapter 434: Do You Know That I Like You?

    Harper finally stopped eating and looked at Sean. Once again, she opened her mouth and pushed her mind to speak, but nothing came out.


    "Miss Harper, please, there¡¯s no need to feel shy or hold yourself back around me," Sean¡¯s casual words surprised Harper.


    ¡¯Oh, my God! Does he know? How could he know!!¡¯ Harper blinked several times, looking into his brilliant green eyes, which fluttered her heart.


    After forcing her racing heart to calm down by breathing slowly, she said, "Uhm, it seems you know what I¡¯m trying to say to you. How do you know that there¡¯s something I want to tell you?"


    ¡¯What did you just say, Harper? Stupid, stupid Harper! Stop saying those useless and awkward words!¡¯ She vents her frustration. She couldn¡¯t believe her nervousness made her act like a teenager with zero dating experience!


    Sean placed his chopsticks on the empty plate. His calm eyes stared at Harper. Despite feeling nervous about eating alone with a woman, he calmly said, "I just know."


    Harper smiled at his answer. She said, "Your observational and deduction skills are excellent, Sean Spencer. No wonder you became a General at such a young age."


    Sean didn¡¯t comment on her words. He turned his gaze to his ocha* and sipped it slowly and calmly.


    He wanted to ask her why she was following Sam, but the words stopped at the tip of his tongue. Clenching his fists tightly, he turned his gaze elsewhere, avoiding her eyes.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Harper to speak up, "How¡¯s your day, Sean?" she asked but scolded herself simultaneously. How could she ask him such a lame question? How embarrassing!


    "Uneventful. But that means a good day in my line of work," Sean answered calmly, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back in his chair, waiting for another question.


    Harper was getting frustrated with his brief, focused answers, as if he carefully chose his answer to prevent her from asking more.


    Frustrated with the situation, Harper decided to go straight to her goal and express her feelings toward him.


    She swallowed silently before revealing what had been tormenting her mind.


    "Sean, do you know that I like you?" she asked calmly, trying to suppress her nervousness. But the warmth on her face scared her. She could tell her face must be red by now.


    Two seconds. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Three seconds.


    Five seconds.


    Ten seconds passed, but he did not react. His silence was enough to make her heart feel like it was about to explode into thousands of tiny pieces. Harper was too nervous to say any words to follow up on her question.


    ¡¯Please, please, answer me now, Sean! Any answer will do!¡¯ Harper muttered in her heart while daring to look into his eyes. However, Sean¡¯s expression remained the same. There was no surprise or displeasure. He was making her even more confused.


    Sean looked straight into Harper¡¯s eyes with his usual calm gaze. But no words came out of his mouth; he just stared at her, confused about how to respond to her sudden confession.


    Harper began to worry; this man either didn¡¯t hear her or pretended not to.


    Feeling her face hotter, the resourceful Harper pushed her mind to focus on slow breathing, forcing her heart to calm down and, at the same time, be braver. Her hands were under the table, clenched tightly, waiting for him to say something.


    She would give him a few more minutes before concluding.


    After some time, she suddenly said with every courage she had, "Sean, I assume your silence means YES."


    Instantly, Sean frowned at her conclusion. But still, he didn¡¯t say anything to refute her because he had known since the first time he met her in Bella¡¯s cabin in Sweden that this girl liked him.


    The way Harper saw him was completely different from how Bella saw him. Knowing that Harper liked him scared him because he didn¡¯t want Bella to lose her best friend.


    Sean knew that Harper was someone Bella considered part of her family, so he always drew boundaries between them whenever he saw her. He didn¡¯t want to give her hope.


    All this time, Sean thought he had succeeded in pushing her away, but when they met again in Bella¡¯s office, she still saw him as she used to.


    This made him worry because even though his relationship with Bella didn¡¯t work out, he didn¡¯t plan to open his heart to someone else, especially Bella¡¯s best friend.


    "Miss Harper¡ª" His voice halted when she asked him to stop.


    "Please, just call me Harper. No need to add Miss before my name." A sweet smile appeared on Harper¡¯s lips. She was pleased to have caught Sean¡¯s attention. "And you don¡¯t have to say anything back to what I just said, Sean... I just want you to hear me."


    Sean could only frown at her words.


    "I like you, Sean Spencer. Since I first saw you in Bella¡¯s cabin several years ago. But, at that time, I didn¡¯t dare express my feelings because I knew you only liked Bella." Harper¡¯s voice was calm, even though she felt like her heart was about to explode.


    "However, when I found out that you had no hope for Bella because she finally chose to return to Tristan¡ª" She paused to give Sean time to calm his emotions; she could see a flash of annoyance in his eyes.


    She continued, "I dared to express my feelings for you, that I like you and intend to pursue you... to become my future husband."


    Harper swallowed silently, wetting her throat, which suddenly felt dry.


    "And, as I said, you don¡¯t have to answer me now, Sean. I¡¯m not in a rush. Just consider me if you¡¯re trying to move on. Or, if your parents force you to marry the girl they choose, please consider me too. I¡¯m the woman who likes you, and you already know that."


    Having said what she wanted to, Harper felt the heavy burden on her shoulders lifted.


    Sean was unable to say anything, too speechless to comment on her bold confession. This wasn¡¯t the first time a woman had expressed her feelings for him, but she was the first to do so openly, without any embarrassment.


    ____


    *Ocha means TEA in Japanese.

 Chapter 435: Her Confession Left Him Speechless

    "Harper, has Bella ever talked to you about me?" Sean asked. "And I believe you know how much I loved her, right?"


    "Of course, she¡¯s my best friend. She told me everything about you, and I knew my chance to win your heart was ZERO. That¡¯s why I never dared to approach you when Bella was still single. I know you still have a chance with her."


    Harper took a deep sigh. She realized she had spoken too much, and her throat felt hoarse. She drank her ocha before looking Sean straight in the eyes.


    "However, when I found out Bella decided to accept Tristan¡¯s relentless effort to chase her back together, I told myself to start chasing you back, Sean Spencer! I know you won¡¯t open your heart immediately, but I¡¯m happy if you know how much I like you and what you mean to me. This is all I want to tell you for now."


    "Harper did¡ª"


    Harper interrupted him again, saying, "Please, Sean, don¡¯t answer me now. I hope you will be willing to take some time to think about me and what I am to you..." She didn¡¯t want an immediate answer because she feared he might reject her.


    Sean chuckled and looked away. He knew what she wanted but had something else to ask.


    "I¡¯m sorry if I sound assertive, Sean. That¡¯s who I am, and I hope you will take your time before deciding your answer," Harper said apologetically.


    Sean remained silent.


    "Okay, that¡¯s all I want to say, and I won¡¯t say anything else. Thank you for listening to my feelings," Harper continued, lowering her head and feeling embarrassed for the first time since she had started expressing her feelings to him.


    The room became silent again. They said nothing else, but Sean slowly turned to see her again. A faint smile appeared on his lips, looking at Harper hiding her face.


    He could see her confidence fading; she was different from the girl he had seen speak to him a few minutes ago.


    Sean silently sighed deeply before saying, "Harper, what I¡¯m trying to ask you is, did Bella know about your feelings toward me?"


    Harper was stunned to hear his words. She lifted her head to look him in the eyes, "No... No... I never told her, and she probably doesn¡¯t know about it." She said,


    "Why didn¡¯t you tell her? I thought you two were best friends," Sean asked.


    He was curious about this and wanted to know Bella¡¯s opinion on whether she knew about Harper¡¯s feelings, even though he had already guessed what Bella might do.


    Harper didn¡¯t rush to answer, but she took a deep breath to relieve the tightness in her chest.


    "I don¡¯t want to trouble Bella, and also, I don¡¯t want her to be involved. You know how intelligent and cunning she was, right? If she knew, she might do whatever she could to make you positively reciprocate my feelings toward you. She might succeed, but I don¡¯t want that." Harper said bitterly, imagining what Bella could do to help her.


    Harper continued, "Sean, you know what? Even though I really like you, and I¡¯m willing to wait until you are ready to open your heart again, I don¡¯t want you to accept me because Bella forced you."


    Sean agrees with Harper. If Bella insists, he might accept Harper immediately because he doesn¡¯t have the heart to refuse her.


    "Okay, I agree with you. It¡¯s better if Bella doesn¡¯t know about this," Sean said, smiling faintly enough to warm Harper¡¯s heart. This was the first time she had seen him smile at her, even though his smile was not as obvious and not as gentle as when he smiled at Bella.


    Harper stood up from her chair, surprising Sean. He didn¡¯t say anything; he just watched her grab her bag and get ready to leave.


    ¡¯She left?¡¯ he thought, confused. ¡¯Why? Why did she leave?¡¯


    "Sean, I¡¯ve said what I wanted to tell you. I¡¯ll take my leave now. I won¡¯t disturb your nostalgic time, chatting soldier to soldier with Sam," Harper smiled sincerely at him.


    She continues, "Thank you for listening to my feelings toward you without mocking or making me down, Sean. You have no idea how much I appreciate it."


    Sean could only nod, confused about what to say.


    "And, uhm, one more thing. I hope you unblock my phone number. I promise you, I won¡¯t spam text you," she said with a pitiful expression.


    Sean¡¯s brow furrowed hearing that. "Unblock? I¡¯m pretty sure I didn¡¯t block your number, Harper."


    Harper was shocked. "Really? You didn¡¯t?"


    "Yes! I¡¯m positively sure." He asked in confusion. "Who said I blocked your number?"


    "No one. But you have my number, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "So, why don¡¯t you ever reply to my messages?"


    "Oh, that. Yeah. I ignored them. Sorry about that¡ª" Sean said softly.


    Harper was left speechless after hearing his honesty. Instantly, she felt like she wanted to disappear.


    However,


    A moment later, a warm feeling somehow filled her heart again when she realized that Sean had never blocked her phone number. That was good news, right?


    Harper smiled at him, saying, "It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t answer my text message, but at least read what I sent you. And I promise I won¡¯t send you as many texts as before..." She slightly nodded and left.


    "Wait, Harper..."


    "Yes?" Harper halted her step and looked at him. Her heart raced to hear him call her.


    "Why are you in a hurry? At least finish your dinner," Sean said. He felt sorry because this girl must have felt so awkward that she decided to leave early.


    Sean just realized he didn¡¯t mind if she stayed and talked some more.


    "Ah," Suddenly, Harper¡¯s face turned warm again when she heard his words. "I already finished my dinner. Bye, Sean¡ª" she rushed out.


    Sean opened his mouth to say something, but Harper had vanished from the room.


    He sighed deeply while smiling and returned his gaze to her empty plate. Suddenly, he lost his appetite to continue his dinner because his mind was filled with what Harper had said.


    Before long,


    Sam finally returned and, with an awkward smile, looked at Sean sitting in his seat and playing with his ocha glass. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He cleared his throat to tell Sean about his present. When he saw Sean glance at him, he asked, "Where¡¯s Harper? Did she go to the restroom?"


    Sean¡¯s lips curved into a cold smile. He looked back at his empty glass. After Sam sat beside him, he said, "Sam, you can drop your act now. I know what you did."


    Sam¡¯s eyebrows furrowed when he heard Sean¡¯s sentence. "I did what? What do you mean, man? You, uhm, you confuse me," he answered awkwardly, already guessing Sean¡¯s answer.


    "It¡¯s okay, Sam. I know everything," Sean said, glancing at him. He continued, "And you don¡¯t have to feel guilty like that, Sam. I¡¯m totally fine with it. I know you meant well." He patted Sam on the shoulder.


    "Oh. Sorry, man, I was trying to help a good friend."


    Sean said nothing but filled his glass again with ocha and slowly sipped it.

 Chapter 436: Bella Feels Tired

    At Tristan and Bella¡¯s house,


    After dinner, Tristan accompanied Dax before going to bed.


    Meanwhile, Bella tried to call Bryan to ask about Henry¡¯s current condition.


    On the first ring, the phone call was immediately connected, and Bryan¡¯s soft voice was heard on the other end greeting Bella.


    "Hello, good evening, young madam..." Bryan greeted her politely.


    "Good evening, Bryan. How are the conditions there? Is everything okay?" Bella asked calmly, but her hands clenched tightly around her cell phone couldn¡¯t hide her worry.


    "Ma¡¯am, everything is under control. Your brother was awake earlier, and I saw him talking with your Mother and Grandfather. But now he has entered the surgery room because his condition is quite bad. So they will do a surgery, and it will probably be finished in the next few hours," Bryan explained the procedure he had heard from the doctor in more detail.


    Bella listened to him carefully. Before long, a relieved smile appeared on her face, knowing that everything was in the doctor¡¯s care. Her mother and Grandfather also rested in their VIP room to wait.


    "I see. When the operation is over, please let me know," Bella said.


    "Yes, mam. Don¡¯t worry, I will take care of everything here. Besides, some staff were sent by boss Tristan to help me."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. When did Tristan have a chance to contact Bryan?


    "Okay. Thank you, Bryan. You also need to rest; don¡¯t tire yourself."


    "Yes, mam."


    After talking to Bryan about a few other things, Bella finally ended the phone call.


    Bella leaned back on the sofa and closed her eyes, thinking about Henry. She was trying to create a new plan for Henry¡¯s future because her initial plan fell apart after she saw his arrogant behavior.


    Deep down in her heart, Bella hesitated to help Henry. However, remembering her promise to her father, she felt she would be wrong if she ignored her brother, let him be cast out, and did not receive a penny from Donovan Group.


    Apart from her promise to her father, Bella also knows that Henry is the only grandson of her grandfather, who will carry on the Donovan family name. So, her grandfather might be worried if something happened to Henry.


    ¡¯Hiss! You are such a stupid and shameless Henry Donovan!¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but vent her frustration in her heart.


    She looked at the time on her cell phone. It was almost ten o¡¯clock in the evening.


    "Is mom asleep now!?" Bella muttered while thinking about calling her mother.


    After resting her eyes for a few more minutes and thinking about what would be best for her brother, Bella finally decided to call her mother and speak to her.


    Unfortunately, her mother didn¡¯t pick up the phone until the last ring, so she called Noora.


    "Hi, Aunty Noora," Bella said as she heard Noora¡¯s cheerful voice on the other end. "I¡¯m glad to hear you sound so happy. How¡¯s everything, Aunty?"


    "Young Miss, you finally called us. Well, Henry is in the surgery room now. If I¡¯m not mistaken, the surgery will finish in two or three hours, so we were asked to rest in the room."


    "I see," Bella said.


    "And you know, miss, this room is incredibly spacious, just like the presidential suite in the hotel we once stayed in. Why do I feel like we are on holiday now? Not in the hospital?" Noora chirped.


    Bella smiled amusedly when she heard Noora cheerfully explain the hospital¡¯s detailed condition. However, she didn¡¯t need information about their room right now.


    She needed to know about her mother¡¯s and Grandpa¡¯s condition after learning that Henry was in terrible condition. Somehow, she still blames herself for using so much power to teach her brother, causing him to undergo surgery.


    After a few more minutes, Noora finally stops describing everything there.


    Bella cleared her throat before she asked, "Aunty, how are Mother and Grandpa?"


    "Aah, sorry, I forgot to tell you about them," Noora laughed before continuing. "Well, right now, your mother is in the bathroom. She looked fine; she was no longer as worried as before."


    Bella felt relieved to hear that.


    "Your mother also had a chance to talk to the doctor earlier. It seems like the doctor knows Master Tristan, and I heard he asked the doctor to make sure Henry is well taken care of."


    Once again, Bella was surprised. She didn¡¯t even know that he cared for her family and did not tell her about it.


    "How about Grandpa?" Bella is concerned about her Grandpa.


    "Same with your mother. Old Master also looks okay. Right now, he is resting in his room next to ours. He¡¯s with Nick..."


    "Does he want to stay overnight there too?" Bella was surprised to know that.


    "Yes, I saw Liam come in; he brought Old Master¡¯s luggage."


    "Alright, thank you, Aunty. I need you to accompany my mom tonight. And please call me if something happens there."


    "Young miss, you don¡¯t have to worry. Everything will be okay."


    "I hope so. I¡¯ll be there tomorrow morning. Let me know when Henry wakes up."


    "Sure¡ª"


    Bella felt better after she ended the phone call. She immediately headed to the bathroom to clean up.


    After a long day, she confronted her older brother, but only now did she feel utterly exhausted. She needed a warm bath to calm her mind and soul.


    Later, when Bella came out of the bathroom in her white nightgown, she saw Tristan just entering the room. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Is Dax asleep?"


    "Hmm, he asked me to read an autobiography book. And he just went to sleep when we were almost on page one hundred," Tristan sighed deeply, tired from reading a book.


    He walked closer to Bella, who looked like an angel in a long white gown. She applied a tonic to her long, ink-black hair. He couldn¡¯t avert his gaze elsewhere, mesmerized by her beauty.


    "Let me help you..."


    "It¡¯s fine, I¡¯m done. Let¡¯s sleep..." Bella smiled at him and walked to the bed. "I¡¯m so sleepy now, and I feel like my body is screaming at me to rest."


    When Tristan heard that, his face slowly turned stiff; remembering her blood test, he immediately led her to the bed and gently helped her under the blanket.


    "Mmm... Let¡¯s sleep..."

 Chapter 437: After Months, He Needed a Cold Shower

    After ensuring Bella was lying comfortably, Tristan didn¡¯t immediately join her. Instead, he sat on the side of the bed while lovingly stroking her warm cheek.


    Since this morning, Tristan wanted to tell her about the lab results he received. However, he couldn¡¯t because there were many urgent things to do at the office.


    One urgent matter was the suspicious person who tried to dig into her personal background, both offline and online record, which was troubling him today. They couldn¡¯t find that person¡¯s identity, which worried him.


    ...


    Under her sleepy eyes, Bella saw Tristan sitting beside her, which confused her.


    "Why aren¡¯t you sleeping?"


    "I will. I¡¯m too busy all day and can¡¯t get enough of seeing your beautiful face. Let me look at your face for a few minutes, hmm..."


    She smiled and closed her eyes, "Mr. Sinclair, don¡¯t forget to turn off the light if you are done feeding your eyes with my beauty."


    Tristan chuckled and pinched her cheek.


    "Aughh! Please, stop. I¡¯m so sleepy..." She yawned.


    Tristan took a deep breath. He wanted to tell her about the test result now, but seeing how tired she was made him postpone it. If he had told her now, she would be shocked and probably unable to sleep.


    After turning off the bedroom lights, Tristan immediately joined her under the blanket. Worried about making her uncomfortable, he tried not to move, not even a tiny movement. He lay there, staring at the ceiling and trying to breathe without a sound.


    However, after a few seconds, he closed his eyes. Bella¡¯s voice broke the silence.


    "Ugh... Hubby... I¡¯m so sorry. I can¡¯t, um, I can¡¯t make love tonight; I¡¯m too tired to do it. But no worries. We could do it tomorrow if you want.


    I hope you don¡¯t mind," Bella whispered. She felt bad because she knew they always do it before they sleep, but only tonight was she indubitably exhausted after her confrontation with Henry.


    Tristan suddenly opened his eyes wide. A wry smile slowly appeared on his lips as he turned to look at Bella, who had her back turned to him.


    Just looking at her back was enough to awaken something inside him¡ªsomething he had been putting deep inside his mind to the point of repressing it.


    "Babe, how could you awaken these feelings in me after I tried so hard to suppress them?" Tristan said softly as he turned towards her.


    Without saying a word, he placed his hand on her waist and pulled her gently toward him, wrapping his arms around her from behind.


    "Tr-Tristan..." Bella was surprised by his swift move. She tries to look at him through her shoulder, but Tristan buries his head on her shoulder.


    "Oh dear, why are you waking my little brother down there?" he said while kissing her neck and exhaling her scents, causing her to curl up.


    Bella feels the tickle on her neck, and a soft moan escapes Bella¡¯s lips. Her heartbeat started to race, but she said nothing. Not even try to stop him.


    After being satisfied, he inhaled her scent. He whispered in her ear.


    "Don¡¯t worry, dear. I won¡¯t tire you tonight, but you have to compensate me because you awakened my little brother¡ª" his hand pulls her gown and slips under, caressing her smooth skin before returning to kissing her neck.


    Bella silently scolded herself. She could only swallow hard when she felt his stiffened little brother rubbing her thigh and his hand tickling her lower abdomen. Instantly, she feels like her blood shivers all over her veins, and her lust quickly envelops her mind and sets aside her tiredness.


    "Tristan¡­" She calls his name softly when she feels her entire body react. "Ughhh¡­" she moaned when his hand squeezed and caressed her breasts and nipples. Her body arches in pleasure.


    She wanted more. And instantly, she no longer cares about her fatigue. She needs him now.


    "Tr-Tristan... Ughh...Mmmm..." She moaned even louder than before.


    Suddenly, Tristan stopped. And his words instantly shutter Bella¡¯s lust.


    "My dear wife, no worries, I will let you sleep now. But, please don¡¯t provoke me again, huh? I won¡¯t be able to hold myself back if you tease me again..." He whispers near her ear.


    "NO¡­NO¡­ PLEASE CONTINUE¡­ TRISTAN SINCLAIR!!" She wanted to shout that but stopped when Tristan pulled his hand.


    ¡¯Damn you, Tristan Sinclair!! I HATED YOU!¡¯ She could only vent her frustration inwardly while trying to press her needs. She didn¡¯t want to awaken him again, or he would not let her sleep till dawn as usual.


    Tristan made her turn towards him and let her sleep in his arms.


    "Alright, sleep and don¡¯t make any reckless move or¡ª"


    "I promise!" Bella interrupted him immediately, closing her eyes and burying her head in his chest. She didn¡¯t dare to make any small move at all.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say a word. He was too preoccupied, distracting his mind to suppress his lust.


    He didn¡¯t know how long he lay there, holding her, until he finally heard her soft snore, which made him relax.


    Slowly, he released his embrace and immediately rushed to the bathroom to take a cold shower.


    This was the first time he had done this after months when Bella had not wholly accepted him.


    After a cold shower, Tristan did not immediately join Bella on the bed. He walked to the veranda in his white bathrobe to make a call.


    On the fourth ring, the phone finally connected, and a deep male voice on the other end greeted him unhappily.


    "Damn it, Tristan Sinclair! Why did you call me at this ungodly hour? Did your wife get sick again?"


    "Carlos, why are you sleeping at this hour? I¡¯ve always thought of you as a night owl type of person," Tristan asked, ignoring Carlos¡¯s question. "Where are you now?"


    "What the hell? It¡¯s already two in the morning, man!" Carlos said as he got up from his soft bed and sat on the edge of the bed.


    sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 438: Overly Praised

    "What the hell? It¡¯s already two in the morning, man!" Carlos said as he got up from his soft bed and sat on the edge of the bed.


    Frustrated, he pinched his suddenly throbbing forehead. "Don¡¯t compare me to you, Tristan. I¡¯m an active doctor with several surgery appointments tomorrow. And I need enough sleep to perform well, or I could hurt my patients," Carlos continued.


    Tristan didn¡¯t feel rushed to respond to Carlos¡¯s words. He gazed at the moon in the dark sky, took a deep breath, and realized it was now two in the morning. He couldn¡¯t sleep at all, especially when he yearned to make love to his wife but couldn¡¯t.


    He felt angry but didn¡¯t know how to express his frustration.


    He recalls Carlos warning him not to have sex with his wife until they have thoroughly checked her pregnancy condition. Given her history of vulnerable pregnancies and multiple miscarriages in their first couple of years of marriage, he worries that her current pregnancy could also be at risk.


    Tristan felt very stressed when he heard Carlos¡¯ warning. As a result, he¡¯s trying to control himself and avoid intimacy with his wife tonight. His priority now is to schedule a visit to an obstetrician to ensure the health of her pregnancy.


    "What¡¯s up? Why did you call me so late?" Carlos asked impatiently, wanting to go back to sleep while still feeling drowsy.


    Tristan was still in a trance, gazing at the moon, ignoring Carlos¡¯s annoyance.


    "Damn it, Tristan Sinclair! Don¡¯t tell me you called me just to hear my voice?" Carlos said curtly. Still not hearing any response, he continued calmly, "Boss, I¡¯ll hang up if you don¡¯t talk in ten...minutes!" he said and started counting in his heart.


    After a few moments, when Carlos was about to end the call and didn¡¯t care that his boss would cut his bonus, Tristan finally spoke. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Carlos, how¡¯s my brother-in-law?" He asked calmly, but his eyes flashed with anger.


    Carlos immediately explained Henry¡¯s health condition in detail. He described the successful surgery their hospital¡¯s number-one orthopedic surgeon performed. Also, he reported on the length of recovery time needed until Henry could return to his usual activity.


    Tristan was taken aback hearing all that; he commented, "Oh, it¡¯s that bad?"


    "Yes, that¡¯s why the doctors need to operate because there is bleeding inside. They need to bleed out the chest cavity and also install a pen so the bones heal quickly."


    "I see. When will he recover?"


    "I told you earlier that he may fully recover in three to six weeks. Your brother-in-law should be able to walk, perform daily activities, and engage in light exercise, as long as he avoids lifting heavy objects or doing anything that could strain his chest."


    "Okay, I understand," Tristan responded, nodding slowly as if Carlos were standing before him.


    "Boss, if I may ask?"


    "Yes?"


    "What kind of accident caused such severe injuries to your brother-in-law?" Carlos asked curiously. When he met Bryan in the hospital, Bryan didn¡¯t provide any details about the cause of the injuries. Instead, he asked him to direct the question to Tristan.


    Tristan took a deep breath before answering, "My wife kicked her brother too hard."


    Carlos¡¯s jaw drops to hear that. Bella, the petite woman, could do such a powerful kick? Were a massive man¡¯s ribs broken?


    It took Carlos a few more seconds to react.


    "What the heck..." Carlos suddenly pressed his lips tightly, refraining from cursing at Tristan. "I-I¡¯m sorry, boss, I was too shocked to hear that my sister-in-law could take down someone that big...!? Unbelievable! How could a petite woman like her have such strength?"


    "Hmm, I also couldn¡¯t believe my wife is that strong..." Tristan chuckled. This is not the first time he has heard about her fighting abilities, and he regrets not seeing it directly.


    "Wow... Why do I start to wonder if my sister-in-law was like a real-life superhero?" he said in awe.


    Tristan was speechless upon hearing Carlos overly praised. He shook his head lightly before excusing himself.


    "Alright, man. I won¡¯t bother you. Go, continue your sleep..." Tristan said.


    "Wait... Wait, boss. I am no longer sleepy. Talk to me about my sister¡ª"


    "BEEP!"


    Tristan hung up the phone before Carlos finished his sentence. He needed to sleep now, or his wife would worry when she saw his panda-eyes tomorrow morning.


    However, before Tristan got into bed, his phone vibrated.


    [Carlos] Heartless!


    Tristan faintly smiled while turning off his cell phone and joining Bella under the blanket.


    ***


    The Next morning.


    When Bella wakes up in the morning, she smiles happily at seeing Tristan sleeping beside her. Looking at his sharp nose is enough to make her pinch it. However, her hand stops in the air when she notices him wearing only a bathrobe.


    Bella silently swallows when her eyes are fixed on his bare chest. She lowers her eyes, looking at his perfect six-pack. Her heart starts to race.


    She feels amused by herself because she still feels excited looking at her husband even though she sees him like this almost daily.


    Trying not to wake him, her hand slowly moves, trying to touch his alluring six-pack, yet before she touches it, something crosses her mind, and her hand freezes again in the air.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why is he sleeping in just a bathrobe?¡¯ Bella wonders, confused; she remembers he didn¡¯t wear this last night. But a moment later, she laughs at her own silly thoughts. ¡¯Did he take a bath while sleeping? Not possible...Tristan isn¡¯t a sleepwalker!¡¯ She stifled a giggle and tried to push aside her curiosity.


    Bella turns to glance out the window to check the sun. The sky appears cloudy, hinting at rain soon. She looks at the bedside table and is surprised it¡¯s not even seven in the morning.


    Worried about disturbing Tristan, Bella slowly tries to get out of bed. But before she can, Tristan¡¯s hand stops her.


    "Where do you think you¡¯re going, my dear?" Tristan says, pulling her back into his arms. "It¡¯s too early for us to get up. Let¡¯s sleep a little longer."


    Bella holds her breath as she feels something hard against her lower abdomen.

 Chapter 439: You Are Pregnant

    Bella pinched his nose, forcing Tristan to open his eyes. Hurriedly, he closed them again, trying to adjust to the light that dazzled him. His groan amused her as she leaned her head on his bare chest.


    "What are you doing, darling...?" His voice sounded hoarse. "Oh dear, you are in trouble. You¡¯ve awakened my little brother."


    Bella froze in his arms, trying to change the subject to distract him.


    "Tristan, why did you sleep wearing your bathrobe? I remember you didn¡¯t wear this last night." She asked, looking up to meet his gaze.


    Tristan¡¯s mouth twitched as he remembered what happened last night. He hurriedly adjusted his expression when he saw her narrow her eyes.


    "Huh!? Why is your expression like that, Tristan? Did something happen last night that I don¡¯t know about? Oh!" Bella gasped as something crossed her mind. "Please, don¡¯t tell me you are a sleepwalker...?"


    Bella felt amused hearing her own words. So silly. How could someone take a bath in their sleep? Impossible, right?


    When Tristan heard her question, he was at a loss for words. He cleared his throat and loosened his hug before answering her curiosity.


    "This is because of you."


    "Me?"


    "Hmm... Because you made me hot all night, I couldn¡¯t sleep. So, I took a cold shower."


    Slowly, Bella felt her cheeks heat up when she realized what Tristan meant.


    "I-I¡¯m sorry, Tristan. Last night, I was exhausted after arguing with Henry." Bella¡¯s sentence suddenly stopped when she remembered her plan to visit Henry in the hospital.


    "It¡¯s fine, dear. I can understand," Tristan answered, amused by her blushing cheeks.


    "Oh, right, I plan to visit the hospital this morning. After that, I¡¯ll take Harper to the airport; she¡¯s returning to New York today," Bella explained her schedule for the day.


    Despite the current situation with her family, Bella couldn¡¯t cancel her plan with Harper, as she had already promised to take her to the airport and didn¡¯t know when they would meet again.


    "Let¡¯s go to the hospital together," Tristan said, surprising her.


    Bella immediately sat. Looking at his thoughtful and sincere gaze, she asked, "You want to meet my brother? Seriously?" She was curious because she didn¡¯t remember whether Tristan had ever talked to Henry before.


    "Why do you look surprised? You didn¡¯t allow me to meet your older brother!?" He smiled while sitting, facing her.


    Bella tried to adjust her expression, even though she still wondered why he suddenly wanted to go to the hospital with her.


    ¡¯Did he want to take revenge on Henry?¡¯ Bella imagined many different scenarios.


    Worries slowly enveloped her as she thought about what might happen when Tristan meets Henry later. Tristan might beat him harder if he knew why she beat Henry last night.


    "Well, I won¡¯t forbid you to meet my brother. But I¡¯m only surprised that you want to see him," Bella¡¯s awkward smile slowly framed her face.


    "Don¡¯t worry, dear, I promise you, I won¡¯t beat your brother," Tristan said as if he knew what she was thinking. "Even though I don¡¯t like him, he had enough beating from you."


    "Thank you, Tristan," Bella said softly. "So you want to drop me off at the hospital before you go to your office?"


    "Not exactly like that," Tristan shook his head while taking her hand. He kissed her hand lovingly before continuing, "I want to take you to see the doctor there."


    Bella frowned in confusion. She felt healthy; she no longer had a fever.


    "Tristan, why do you want me to see a doctor?" Bella asked in a worry, placing her hand on her forehead. But she could feel that her temperature was average. "I¡¯m not sick...I feel wonderful. I¡¯m not a doctor, but I think I¡¯m healthy." She looked at him, confused.


    He chuckled while shaking his head. It felt amusing to see how clueless she was.


    "Ah, so you want us to visit your best friend, Carlos?" She remembered that the doctor who helped her a few nights ago was also his best friend and an executive at S International Hospital.


    "Well, we will meet Carlos later. But he wasn¡¯t the main reason we would meet a doctor there..." Tristan slowly took a deep breath before he continued his sentence. "Bella, do you remember when your last period was?" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella furrowed her beautiful brows, perplexed by Tristan¡¯s unusual question, but she continued counting.


    ¡¯Five days? No... no... Uhm... seven, oh right, ten days. It should be ten days ago.


    OMG! Why have I not yet gotten my period?¡¯ Bella thought, confused.


    "How many days late are you, dear?" Tristan asked, trying to maintain a calm expression even though he already wanted to congratulate his wife on her pregnancy.


    "It¡¯s been ten days. Tristan, this is strange. I¡¯ve never been late this long. Is it because I¡¯m tired, right!?" Bella asked.


    "No. It¡¯s because you are pregnant," Tristan replied.


    "WHAT... WHAT!? I¡¯M PREGNANT?" Bella gasped in shock, covering her mouth with her hand. Her widened eyes stared at Tristan, trying to check if he was teasing her like he had a few months ago.


    "Yes, Bella, you are pregnant," Tristan said, pulling her into his arms. He was happy to share this happy news with her finally.


    However,


    After a few seconds, Tristan was surprised to feel Bella¡¯s body shaking in his arms. Tilting his head slightly to see her face, he asked in concern, "Oh, dear, why are you crying, huh!? You should be happy with this news...please stop crying..."


    "Tr-Tristan," Bella¡¯s voice shook as she pulled her body back to look at him more clearly. "Tristan, you¡¯re kidding me, right? How could I be pregnant? Please tell me that you only wanted to tease me..."


    "I¡¯m not kidding, Bella. You¡¯re really pregnant," Tristan said while placing his hand on her shoulders and leaning closer as their foreheads touched before he started to explain about the blood test he had done when she had a fever.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything, but her sobs grew louder. She felt so happy to hear about her pregnancy; Her happiness was so overwhelming that she couldn¡¯t stop her joyful tears from spilling down her cheeks.

 Chapter 440: Happy Tears

    Bella didn¡¯t say anything, but her sobs grew louder. She felt so happy to hear about her pregnancy; Her happiness was so overwhelming that she couldn¡¯t stop her joyful tears from spilling down her cheeks.


    "Why are you crying, dear? Is the news that you¡¯re pregnant upsetting you?" Tristan asked carefully, avoiding being a smart-ass and worried about being insensitive to his wife.


    She immediately shook her head, "Of course not. I¡¯m not upset. I want Dax to have a sibling..."


    "Then why are you crying?"


    "These tears are my happy tears, hubby!" Bella answered as she wiped the tears from her cheeks.


    After her sobs slowly subsided, she continued, "I really wanted to give Dax a sibling. I¡¯m just so happy and can¡¯t believe it happened so fast," she said, looking Tristan in the eyes.


    Tristan was confused. Why couldn¡¯t she believe it happened so fast? Did she forget that they made love almost every day without using any protection? Of course, she would get pregnant.


    "My wife, perhaps you forget that we¡¯ve been trying hard to give Dax a little sister or brother. We¡¯re trying so hard and so keen nearly daily."


    Bella, "..."


    She took a deep, long sigh.


    "Tristan Sinclair, what I¡¯m trying to tell you..." Bella¡¯s expression turned serious. "How could I get pregnant so easily now? Do you remember how difficult it was for us to get pregnant until we finally had Dax!? It took so many years. And even you don¡¯t know that I was pregnant at that difficult time." Her voice trembled as tears filled her eyes.


    Slowly, memories of the past flooded her mind, tightening her chest.


    Seeing how upset Bella was, enough to make Tristan¡¯s heartache, remembering those dark memories of their struggles, he said nothing but gently wiped the tears from her cheeks.


    Once again, he pulled her into his arms to offer emotional support. They hugged briefly as she let her tears flow into his arms.


    "I¡¯m sorry I made you recall those awful times again, dear. I could try to find the answer if you want me to. But, if I may ask, why don¡¯t we just put our trust in God? Believe that this is His present for us," Tristan whispered.


    "And, Bella, I hope you no longer feel sad or upset about what happened in the past, that emotions might affect our child inside you."


    Bella¡¯s sobs slowly faded away as she agreed with what Tristan said.


    "Hmm, I agree. I will... But, Tristan, I still feel like this isn¡¯t real," she said. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a few moments, Tristan said, "That¡¯s why we need to visit the doctor today to check your pregnancy condition."


    "Hmm... let¡¯s go," Bella said as she left the bed. However, before she walked to the bathroom, her steps halted as something crossed her mind. "Tristan, why didn¡¯t you tell me you sent my blood to the lab?"


    Tristan took her hand and led her to the bathroom before explaining, "Because I didn¡¯t want to disappoint you if the result was not what we hoped for..."


    Bella smiled at him. He was indeed wise to think that way. She might be disappointed if the test result was negative, so it was probably better if she didn¡¯t know about it.


    "Tristan, we shouldn¡¯t tell people about my pregnancy. I¡¯m worried something will happen. Let¡¯s keep it a secret until they see my bump," Bella said. She was afraid of what happened in the past repeating itself and would disappoint many people if it happened again.


    "Okay. I will support you in that, dear," Tristan answered. He was excited because, unlike during her first pregnancy, he didn¡¯t have the opportunity to take care of her. This time, he would make sure to pamper his wife and give her the best care until she gave birth later.


    ***


    After breakfast, Tristan drove their car to S International Hospital.


    Bella sat in the back row with Dax, who insisted on coming along because he missed his grandmother and Aunty Noora.


    Before long, Dax asked, "Mommy, is Uncle Henry also in the hospital?"


    She turned to see her adorable son, nodding, "Yes, he is."


    "Can I meet him?"


    "Sure, but I need to check first before you meet him. I¡¯m worried your uncle¡¯s health condition is still not okay for us to visit," she explained.


    Bella wasn¡¯t entirely honest with her son. She must talk to Henry about her son because he does not know about Dax¡¯s existence. She worries that Henry will be shocked to death after learning she has a son and is still married to Tristan Sinclair.


    Later,


    Finally, they arrived at the hospital. They didn¡¯t visit the ob-gyn first, but Bella took Dax to her mother¡¯s VIP room.


    When they entered the VIP room, Bella saw her mother and Noora had just finished their breakfast.


    "Bella, Tristan, why did you come so early?" Natalie asked, surprised to see the three of them enter the room. She immediately stood up to greet her grandson. "Little Dax, come hug Grandma."


    "Granny..." Dax greeted her before walking to hug her.


    "Mom, Dax wanted to meet you and Noora. And we came earlier because Tristan has some business in this hospital." Bella explained calmly, trying to hide the colossal secret they now have.


    Natalie ignored what Bella said; she was busy talking to her grandson. She missed him a lot and felt sorry because today, she couldn¡¯t prepare his breakfast as she usually does.


    Bella simply smiled, observing how much her mother doted on her son. She said nothing and just let them talk.


    She didn¡¯t stay in the room for too long. After excusing herself to her mother and Noora, she left with Tristan.


    Her heart beat faster as she walked along the corridor, heading to the special elevator that brings them to the VIP floor. She remembered visiting this place almost every month in the past.


    However, in the past, she always came to this place alone; Tristan never accompanied her. It didn¡¯t matter to her because their relationship was merely a deal.

 Chapter 441: Bella Surprised To Meet Someone

    The elevator door finally opened, and Carlos already stood right before the door. He¡¯s welcoming Bella and Tristan. He greeted them kindly, but Bella didn¡¯t pay attention to him. She just gave a faint smile before becoming distracted, observing the empty, spacious lounge before her eyes.


    She felt odd. No other patients were waiting in the lounge, and only a handful of staff were on standby. The staff seemed reluctant to look at them. Or, perhaps they are all afraid to see Tristan?


    ¡¯Huh!? Did we come too early?¡¯ Bella wondered as she changed her line of sight. And still didn¡¯t see any patients around.


    Bella set aside her strange feelings and focused on the long corridor ahead. She walked alongside Tristan, who was talking to Carlos. They were discussing her test results and condition, making her nervous.


    Suddenly, her mind was filled with a mix of emotions. She felt excited but also frightened, as if several butterflies were flying around in her stomach, and they were having a party. It was hard for her to describe her feelings at that moment.


    ¡¯Stay calm, Bella... Stay calm,¡¯ she repeated to herself a few times to try to lessen her worry.


    Tristan stopped talking to Carlos when he felt Bella¡¯s hand grow cold. Glancing at her, he was surprised to see her pale face and stiff expression. He abruptly halted and touched her shoulder to get her to look at him.


    "My wife, Bella," Tristan called her name tenderly. When he saw her worried gaze staring back at him, he smiled. "Breathe, dear, breathe. Don¡¯t be nervous, huh? We will meet the best OB-GYN in the country. Nothing will happen to our child.


    Everything will be okay."


    Bella said nothing but immediately followed Tristan¡¯s instructions to take a deep breath.


    Tristan¡¯s heart ached even more when he saw his wife¡¯s expression like this. He imagined this had happened to her in the past when she was pregnant with their first son, and he wasn¡¯t there to comfort her. Like now, he will never stop blaming himself every time he sees her.


    After seeing her look better and not as tense as before, they continued walking and finally arrived in front of the examination room door that Bella was familiar with.


    Carlos, who announced their arrival and the nurse, finally opened the door.


    "Good morning, Dr. Robinson. The VVIP patient I told you about has finally arrived," Carlos said while letting Tristan and Bella enter the room.


    The senior female doctor stood from her seat, looking friendly but full of curiosity. However, her curiosity instantly faded, replaced by a shocked expression when she looked closely at Bella and Tristan as they walked in.


    "Oh my god, Tristan... Bella...is that you...oh my, heaven..." She said in disbelief upon seeing these two figures enter the room.


    She hadn¡¯t expected the secret VVIP patients she¡¯d be handling this morning would be none other than Tristan and Bella. She had been Bella¡¯s doctor in the past, but five years ago, Bella suddenly stopped visiting her. The news she had heard was that they had separated.


    "Hello, Aunty Kelsey. Yes, it¡¯s us...And thank you for having us with such short notice," Tristan greeted her politely while holding Bella¡¯s hand tightly. He could feel his wife¡¯s nervousness. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The senior doctor and Bella looked shocked when they saw each other. Bella hadn¡¯t expected her old OB-GYN doctor, Kelsey Robinson, to be the one taking care of her today.


    "Come in, sit down, Bella, Tristan..." Kelsey Robinson said, gesturing for them to sit in front of her desk before resuming her own seat.


    After conversing briefly with Carlos, who then left the room, Kelsey returned to Tristan and Bella. Seeing them again felt surreal.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan and Bella, but I¡¯m quite shocked to see you both here," Kelsey said while turning to Bella with a smile. "Bella, I¡¯m so happy to finally meet you again. It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve seen you, and you look more beautiful."


    "Me too. I¡¯m so happy to finally meet you again, Dr. Kelsey," Bella answered, returning her warm smile. Somehow, she feels relieved because the doctor who will take care of her is someone she already knows.


    "I almost didn¡¯t recognize you, Bella. You¡¯ve changed a lot... I¡¯m not saying you turn old, but you look much younger and pretty." Kelsey remarked.


    Kelsey Robinson remembered that Bella had gained a lot of weight in the past, but now she looked slender and hadn¡¯t aged at all.


    "Thank you, doctor. You also look much younger than when I saw you the last time."


    "Hahaha. Don¡¯t flatter me, dear," Kelsey cleared her throat before looking at Tristan. She needed to ask about their relationship status. Why were they coming together now?


    "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry to ask something so personal, but I just want to make sure. Are you both remarried?"


    Bella was speechless when she heard that. She lowered her gaze and smiled at her entwined hands with her husband.


    Tristan¡¯s lips curled into a half-smile. "We are husband and wife, Aunty Kelsey. Why do you ask?"


    Kelsey frowned. She remembered hearing from Jessica Sinclair that they had already divorced, so Bella no longer came to meet her for regular check-ups.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan, Bella, but I heard some rumors about both of you¡ª"


    "Aunty Kelsey, don¡¯t listen to those baseless rumors," Tristan said as he squeezed Bella¡¯s hand. "We are here to ask you to check on my wife¡¯s pregnancy."


    Once again, Kelsey Robinson was shocked beyond words.


    ¡¯Bella is pregnant?¡¯ she thought while gazing at Bella.


    It took a few seconds for Kelsey Robinson to process Tristan¡¯s words.


    "OMG! Bella, are you really pregnant?" Kelsey Robinson asked, wanting to ensure she hadn¡¯t misheard.


    "Yes, Doc. But I want you to check it first to make sure," she smiled.


    Tristan chimed in as he explained the blood test Carlos did on Bella a few days ago. The test result indicated she was pregnant, so they came here today.

 Chapter 442: Shocking News For Both Of Them

    Kelsey Robinson felt even happier to hear that. She smiled widely and immediately stood up from her chair. She asked Bella to follow her to the examination room.


    "Well, okay then. Shall we take a look?" Kelsey Robinson said excitedly.


    Bella immediately followed her, and Tristan walked beside her.


    In the large, familiar room she often visited, Bella saw the nurse who had opened the door for them earlier waiting near the examination bed.


    The nurse aptly checked Bella¡¯s body temperature and blood pressure and asked a few common pre-examination questions warmly and in a friendly manner.


    After a few minutes, she guided the nervous Bella to lie down on the examination couch while Kelsey Robinson, at the couch side, prepared to use ultrasound tools to examine Bella¡¯s tummy.


    Bella glanced at Tristan on the other side of the couch several times, holding his hand tightly. Through his gentle grip, she could feel that her husband was sending her a message to calm down.


    Her smile blossomed with gladness and gratitude as she remembered a different feeling and situation when she carried Dax. Then she returned her gaze to the flat-screen TV monitor hanging on the wall before her. She was nervous as she looked at the results of the ultrasonography.


    Curious to know the results, she narrowed her eyes and looked at the flat TV. Even though this wasn¡¯t the first time she had seen it, she still did not understand it before the doctor explained it.


    "Doc, how are the results?" Bella asked curiously after seeing Kelsey Robinson still seriously scanning her flat belly for a moment.


    Kelsey turned to face them with a smile in her eyes. "Tristan, congratulations," she said, "Bella is indeed pregnant. You can see the monitor. This is the little one, the fetus..." She proceeded to explain more details about Bella¡¯s pregnancy weeks and related information.


    Bella and Tristan¡¯s eyes were blurry as they were glued to the monitor. Their hearts raced with happiness upon hearing the news, and they couldn¡¯t hide their joy as they looked at the small dot on the monitor.


    Tristan gently squeezed Bella¡¯s hand and looked at his wife with teary eyes. He felt like he was about to cry, too, but he tried hard to hold it back.


    After a few moments of happiness, Kelsey Robinson¡¯s words shocked them both and pulled them from their overwhelmed joy.


    "But, there¡¯s more news I must tell you both..."


    "More news?" Tristan asked with concern in his high-pitched voice. "Is the baby alright, Aunty?"


    "Yes," Kelsey Robinson replied, focusing on Tristan. His worried expression took her aback, but she quickly reassured him, "Don¡¯t worry, this is actually good news..."


    "What¡¯s happening, Doc?" Bella asked nervously, her voice trembling. Like Tristan, she couldn¡¯t hide her anxiety.


    Kelsey Robinson asked them to look at the monitor again. "Take a look at this... You¡¯re expecting twins. Congratulations..." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Twins?" Tristan stammered in shock. "We¡¯re having twins?"


    "Oh my God, Doc, are you serious?" Bella exclaimed, her eyes wide as she looked at the monitor, bewildered by the same image she had seen before.


    "Yes, there are two fetuses in your belly, Bella. This is a miracle. After waiting for so long, God has finally given you two children at once. Congratulations, dear..." Kelsey joyfully announced.


    Bella and Tristan couldn¡¯t contain their happiness. They were having twins. When they came here, they didn¡¯t expect this news at all; they were only hoping for a child, a sibling for Dax.


    This is indeed a blessing from God.


    After completing the ultrasound examination, they returned to Dr. Kelsey Robinson¡¯s office. They listened carefully as she explained what they should do to manage a twin pregnancy.


    "Tristan, Bella, your pregnancy is still early, in the sixth week, but I want to congratulate you," Kelsey said, unable to hide her happiness at the news that Tristan Sinclair would finally have a child. Finally, your patience in waiting for a child has paid off... God not only gives you one but two."


    Even though she wasn¡¯t part of their family, Kelsey Robinson knew that Tristan¡¯s parents wanted to have a grandchild. Jessica Sinclair had repeatedly mentioned that her son wasn¡¯t interested in marriage or having children.


    "Thank you for your kind words, Aunty," Tristan smiled at her. "But this isn¡¯t our first child."


    Kelsey Robinson¡¯s eyes widened instantly upon hearing Tristan¡¯s words. "Not your first child? You already have...?"


    Confusion filled her as she remembered Jessica¡¯s comments that the Sinclair Family still did not have a grandchild and Tristan might not be interested in having a wife again. She started to feel suspicious that Bella and Tristan might be keeping something from their family.


    "Doctor, thank you for being with me during my pregnancy journey a few years ago," Bella said to Kelsey Robinson. "I was actually pregnant at that time. Now, we have a son who is almost five years old." She smiled at Dr. Kelsey.


    "Congratulations, Tristan, Bella..." Kelsey Robinson was overcome with happy tears. "I felt so bad for not being able to help you get pregnant, but it¡¯s wonderful to hear about your first son."


    "That¡¯s in the past, Doctor. There¡¯s no need to feel sorry. After many failures, we were blessed with a healthy baby boy." Bella said.


    Kelsey Robinson nodded, "You are right, dear. Where is your son? Can I meet him?" Her eyes beamed with excitement as she looked at them.


    "Sure, Doc. Our son is downstairs. You can meet him later."


    "Thank you, Bella," Kelsey said happily.


    "But, Aunty, please don¡¯t tell anyone about my son and Bella¡¯s pregnancy now. Not my Grandpa, my parents, or anyone else. We want this to be a secret," Tristan expressed his concern.


    Although surprised by Tristan¡¯s request, Kelsey Robinson nodded in agreement. She continued to explain more about Bella¡¯s pregnancy and other things. And she informed Bella of her subsequent examination.


    Later,


    Bella and Tristan soon left Kelsey¡¯s office, worried that their son and mother would be looking for her.


    When they both left the room, they met Carlos in the lounge, and Dylan was also there. He seemed to be waiting for Tristan for something important.


    Bella let them talk while sitting on the sofa; she was lost in her thoughts about the result she had just heard from her doctor.


    But not long after, she suddenly heard Carlos asking her something, "...sister-in-law?"


    She turned to see him standing before her, confused because she didn¡¯t hear what he said.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Carlos. I didn¡¯t hear your question clearly. Can you please repeat what you said?" She awkwardly smiled at him.


    Carlos noticed that Bella appeared unhappy and lost in thought. Since leaving Kelsey Robinson¡¯s room, she hadn¡¯t been her usual cheerful self.


    He grew worried and wondered if her pregnancy test had come back negative or if something had happened to the baby.


    "How was the checkup? Is everything okay?" he asked, concerned. He had intended to ask Tristan, but Tristan was occupied with his assistant, Dylan.


    Bella smiled, thinking about the twins inside her.


    "Thank you, Carlos. You did a great job with the lab test on my blood. Yes, the results indicate that I¡¯m indeed pregnant," she said, lowering her voice.


    Before continuing, Bella looked around anxiously, ensuring no one overheard. "Well, we¡¯re not expecting one child, but two."


    "Wow! That¡¯s great news, sister-in-law," Carlos also lowered his voice. "I¡¯m sincerely happy for you and Tristan. Congratulations."


    "Thank you, Carl¡ª" Bella didn¡¯t have time to finish her sentence because Tristan was already back by her side.


    He offered his hand and helped her stand up. "What are you guys talking about?" he asked, looking at Carlos.


    "She told me about the test results. Man, congrats. I¡¯m so happy. Finally, you¡¯re having a child. And I will become an uncle for twins," he said excitedly.


    Bella, hearing Carlos¡¯s words, frowned. "Carlos, you didn¡¯t know?" she asked.


    "Know what?" Carlos asked, looking at both of them in return.


    Bella smiled when she realized that Carlos didn¡¯t know about their son, Dax. She didn¡¯t answer Carlos¡¯s question; instead, she looked up to see Tristan.


    "Tristan, you didn¡¯t tell him about Dax?"


    Suspicious about something, Carlos hurriedly asked, "Who is Dax?"


    Tristan shook his head before he answered Carlos, "Our first son, he¡¯s almost five now."


    "What the hell! Seriously, man? Why didn¡¯t you tell me? How could you not tell me?" Carlos asked in shock, and disappointment clearly flashed through his gaze.


    "I would¡¯ve told you if you asked me," Tristan responded calmly without a pang of guilt. Then, he looked at Bella and gestured for her to follow him.


    Carlos gave Tristan a ¡¯Seriously¡¯ kind of look; he was utterly speechless. He approached Dylan, who had followed Bella and Tristan toward the elevator and walked beside him.


    "Dylan, is your boss joking around with me, or is he telling the truth?" Carlos asked with a whisper.


    "Who? My Boss? Oh, he¡¯s telling the truth. Their son is downstairs with his grandmother," Dylan said, whispering back while patting Carlos¡¯s shoulder.


    Carlos looked hurt as he watched Tristan and Bella enter the elevator.


    "What a heartless best friend you are, Tristan Sinclair," Carlos mumbled before increasing his step to catch up with them immediately. He wanted to see his nephew, Dax!

 Chapter 443: Listen Carefully to What I Have to Say!

    Bella and Tristan didn¡¯t immediately visit her mother¡¯s VIP ward. They detoured to Henry¡¯s room after Carlos informed them he was already awake and could talk.


    As they paused outside Henry¡¯s wardroom, Bella looked up at Tristan and asked, "Would you mind accompanying me inside?"


    She finally decides to tell Henry about Tristan and who he is to her. Her older brother needed something to jolt him out of his delusional and ignorant state, and hiding Tristan from him wouldn¡¯t help cure his delusion.


    "Of course, dear. I also want to meet my brother-in-law," a faint smile crossed his face as a vengeful plan to confront Henry filled his mind.


    "Guys, if you don¡¯t mind, I won¡¯t enter the room with you," Carlos said before Tristan opened the door. "And one more thing. I beg you, please don¡¯t break any of his bones again, if you know what I mean," he said thoughtfully with a smile, looking at Bella as if deliberately warning her.


    Bella was silent, maintained calm, and composed gestures as if she knew nothing about what Carlos implied.


    ¡¯Did Carlos know that I was the one who beat Henry and not Tristan? Why is he smiling and looking at me as if he knows I did it? Gosh!¡¯ Bella thought, lowering her gaze while gesturing for Tristan to open the door immediately.


    Tristan said nothing but opened the door and let Bella enter the room first. He closed the door after asking Carlos and Dylan to wait for them in the lounge.


    Bella stood a few meters from Henry¡¯s hospital bed, enjoying the sight of Henry staring at Tristan with wide eyes and gasping. He appeared shocked and completely ignored her as if his eyes were glued to Tristan.


    While smiling, Bella turned her gaze to Tristan and was speechless at what she saw. She could see her husband trying to intimidate her brother through his sharp gaze.


    She leaned closer and whispered, "Hubby, please, don¡¯t scare my brother. He might faint again, and I¡¯m losing time to speak properly to him."


    Tristan grinned, "Sure, dear... as you wish! But let me know if you change your mind."


    "Could you wait for me on the sofa? I will talk to him alone," she said, pointing to the seating area in the corner. She knew that if Tristan stayed beside her, Henry might not say a word, too frightened by his presence.


    Tristan smiled and nodded.


    After Tristan settled on the sofa, Bella approached Henry. She noticed that although he was paying attention to her, his eyes could not hide his flash of fear, as if he saw her as a threat to his life.


    This is what she anticipated. She had attacked his brother not only physically but also mentally. So now, his chronic arrogance has gone as quickly as possible. And Bella didn¡¯t feel guilty about what she had done to him. She didn¡¯t have much time to deal with his nonsense. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Little sister, you and Tris¡ª" Henry was too afraid to say Tristan¡¯s name, worried the powerful man would immediately beat him. He swallowed hard to moisten his dry throat.


    Looking at Bella, standing by his bedside with an unreadable expression, Henry continued, "Why are you and him coming together? Are you still¡ª" Once again, he lost his words, frustrating him immensely.


    ¡¯Damn it!¡¯ He cursed inwardly while taking a deep breath to calm his frightening self.


    Sensing Henry¡¯s nervousness, Bella said, "Why are you asking? He is my husband. Of course he is accompanying me, even when I didn¡¯t ask for it. He was afraid you¡¯d beat me as you used to, brother," she said in her miserable tone, pretending to feel pressured by the meeting.


    Henry, "..."


    "Who could beat you now? Your power alone is enough to send me to the hospital!" Henry wanted to say this but feared Tristan would hear him.


    Henry pressed his lips harder while clenching his hand tightly, holding back his emotions. He didn¡¯t want to risk his life now. The surgery last night had already made him suffer enough.


    "Alright, I won¡¯t waste my husband¡¯s time just to speak to you. I¡¯ll get straight to the point of why I came here to meet you..." Bella said while slowly moving to the end of the bed, her eyes still fixed on Henry. "Listen carefully because I won¡¯t repeat myself!"


    Henry frowned.


    ¡¯Why did she sound so serious? What does she want to say?¡¯ He vented his frustration internally and didn¡¯t dare to ask.


    "First, Father did not disappear. He regrets his past actions, which is why he¡¯s isolated himself from us," Bella said while silently scolding her father in her mind for being so selfish and running away from his own problems.


    Henry was shocked to hear that, but still, he held himself back from asking.


    "Second, Mother divorced Father. They officially divorced after Father signed the papers before he vanished¡ª"


    "What? You¡¯re kidding, right, Bella?" Henry couldn¡¯t hold back from asking.


    Bella gently shook her head and chuckled softly at Henry¡¯s question. "You overthink yourself, Henry Donovan. I don¡¯t have time to entertain you right now. What I told you is true. You already met our Mom, right?" she asked.


    Henry nodded, still in shock after learning that their parents had divorced and their mother had filed for divorce. This was entirely unexpected for him.


    "You know what, Henry? Our mother¡¯s life was so miserable. She was married to an obscene husband, and she had a rude, ungrateful, arrogant son. Her son only cares about himself, never about his mother¡¯s condition or feelings," Bella said with a deep sigh before adding, "Let me ask you two questions."


    "What is it?" Henry asked, trembling. Bella¡¯s words hurt him deeply, but strangely, he couldn¡¯t argue because what she said was true.


    "Did you ever know that Mom has cancer? Have you ever wondered why she ran away from our father?"


    Henry was utterly clueless. "Mom has cancer?" he recalled, not noticing any signs when she visited him this morning.

 Chapter 444: It’s Up To You!

    Henry was utterly clueless. "Mom has cancer?" he recalled, not noticing any signs when she visited him this morning.


    "Yes. But I won¡¯t tell you about it now. You just need to know that our family is falling apart; our parents have split up. The Donovan Group company is also facing changes. Everything is changing so fast around you, Henry. I suggest you open your eyes, mind, and heart..."


    "Sis¡ª" Henry was at a loss for words, stunned by his sister¡¯s words. He could only gaze into her eyes, pressing his lips tighter to stop himself from speaking, as anything he might say now seemed useless.


    Since Henry remained silent, Bella continued, "You still remember Grandpa¡¯s mention of the new owner of the Donovan Group, right?"


    "Yes!"


    "Alright, I won¡¯t keep it from you. I¡¯m the largest shareholder in the Donovan Group. I own sixty percent of the company¡¯s shares..." Bella paused momentarily to hold back laughter, observing her brother¡¯s amusing expression.


    Not wanting to waste her time, she immediately continued, "Being the majority shareholder allows me to control the company. That includes the ability to dismiss you..."


    Henry¡¯s hand tightened as he asked, "Why? Why did you fire me? We¡¯re siblings, Bella...you¡¯re so heartless, sis!¡¯ he asked softly, yet his trembling voice conveyed his deep upset.


    "This is why I fired you, Henry. You are really thoughtless... No, but thick-skinned! How could you not know?" Bella, shaking her head, can¡¯t believe witnessing his foolish reaction.


    Henry frowned, not understanding Bella¡¯s sentence at all.


    "Let me remind you, Henry. Have you ever made a profit for the company since you took over that branch?"


    Henry realized what she meant as if the fog faded from his mind. He gritted his teeth while shaking his head, angry at himself.


    "That¡¯s the valid reason why I fired you. You can¡¯t work at all. You only humiliated your parents and Grandpa using their name behind yours." She paused to give him time to say something, but her words seemed sharp enough to wound his heart. "Do you want to hear another reason?" she asked.


    "No. I understand." Henry immediately refused. He knew he was useless to the company and his family¡ªnothing he had ever done made his father and grandfather proud of him, only ashamed and troubled. And his father never warned him. He would fight anyone who dared warn him about his bad habits and decisions.


    "Good!" Bella laughed inwardly at her brother¡¯s helpless expression.


    "Because you have Donovan behind your name, and you are my older brother, I won¡¯t punish you severely as I did to our uncles; I left them penniless. I will give you the opportunity to change and become a better human being. Are you willing to do that?" S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, yes... You¡­you have taught me so much in a short time. I¡¯m willing to be a better person, Bella," Henry answered haltingly, too shocked to hear about the punishment Bella had given to their uncles.


    "You can join the company, but I will send you to a small branch in a remote place where other people won¡¯t know who you really are. Your true identity will be kept secret. You will enter the company without using Donovan in your last name," Bella said calmly. Still, Henry heard it like lightning had struck his head.


    Henry was taken aback. But once again, he chose not to interrupt Bella¡¯s sentence.


    "I am giving you one year to turn the branch¡¯s financial situation from a loss to a profit. If you can demonstrate that you are capable of doing so, you will be transferred back to the head office. However, upon returning to the head office, you will start at an entry-level position based on your abilities. Do you agree?"


    Henry sighed deeply before responding, "Do I have any other options?"


    "Of course not. This is your only choice," Bella said with a smile. "If you accept and give it your best effort, I guarantee your future will be promising. But if you decline, your future will be uncertain. Now, it¡¯s up to you..."


    "I agree!" Henry quickly replied.


    After waking up from his surgery, he had the opportunity to meet his grandfather, who was also staying at the hospital waiting for him. They talked a lot about his future and all the choices his grandfather offered him, similar to Bella¡¯s. After meeting his grandfather, he also had a chance to meet his mother. However, she didn¡¯t say much.


    But, one sentence from his mother left a deep impression on his heart: "Listen to Bella, and you¡¯ll be fine."


    At first, Henry was confused by his mother¡¯s words, but after talking to Bella, he fully realized that his surroundings had changed.


    Not only at Donovan Group and Family but the fact that his sister was still married to Tristan Sinclair also hit him hard.


    Now, he didn¡¯t have the chance to act arrogantly in front of Bella anymore. He felt like nothing but a fly in her eyes.


    Sigh!


    He felt so distant from Bella. While he was still grounded on Earth, Bella was already soaring in the sky, flying higher and higher until he could no longer see her.


    ¡¯Henry! It¡¯s time for you to wake up! You¡¯ve gone too far!¡¯ He smiled silently, feeling ashamed of himself.


    ...


    Upon hearing her brother¡¯s words, Bella smiled with satisfaction. However, the smile slowly disappeared, and she continued, "And the last thing I want to tell you..."


    Henry returned his gaze to Bella, curious about what she wanted to say. "Is there anything else?" he asked curiously.


    "My status as Tristan Sinclair¡¯s legal wife is top secret. Never tell anyone about this. And just for your ears, we have a son named Daxton. If you behave well, you can meet him later."


    Henry blinked a few times, too shocked to hear Bella¡¯s last sentence. ¡¯She has a son?¡¯


    "Brother, I hope you can act normally before my son. Keep all your bad attitudes away from him, or you will never see him again," Bella threatened.


    After telling Henry everything she wanted to say, Bella immediately left the room with Tristan. However, before she passed the door, Tristan stopped her.

 Chapter 445: That Uncle Looks Scary

    "Dear, would you mind going to your Mother¡¯s room ahead of me? I need to talk to your brother before coming to the room," Tristan said calmly, without showing particular emotion.


    Bella became alert. She stared into Tristan¡¯s eyes for a moment, trying to discern his current mood.


    ¡¯What does he mean when he said he needs to talk to Henry? Does Tristan think Henry has yet to learn his lesson and plans something terrible at me as revenge? Oh, no. I hope Henry is not that stupid! It would be terrible if Tristan beats Henry again.¡¯ Bella wondered.


    Still, she quickly dismissed the thought of Tristan hurting her brother.


    "Tristan, I have beaten him so bad he has to have surgery. Promise me you won¡¯t send him to the surgery room again," Bella said worriedly.


    Tristan chuckled upon hearing that. Before responding, he slowly raised his hand and pinched her blushing cheeks.


    "I won¡¯t, dear. Trust me. I just want to talk to your brother about a few things. From one man to another. Don¡¯t worry; I won¡¯t resort to violence, even if he provokes me," Tristan said, lovingly smiling at her, trying to ease her worry.


    Bella was still reluctant to let them talk alone, but she finally nodded when she saw his sincerity.


    "Alright, go ahead then. But please, don¡¯t take too long, okay?" Bella said, leaving the room.


    ***


    Bella headed to her Mother¡¯s room, with Carlos following her. He made an excuse that he had a meeting at noon; now was the only time he could meet Dax.


    She had no choice but to let him follow her to meet Dax without Tristan.


    However, before Bella entered her Mother¡¯s room, she stopped and turned to him.


    "Carlos, about my pregnancy, don¡¯t say anything to anyone. Tristan and I want to keep this news secret," she warned him.


    "No worries, sister-in-law. Dylan has already warned me," he said, raising his hand and making a peace sign.


    Carlos had known Tristan Sinclair for years and understood how secretive he could be. Sometimes, he resented Tristan for this, but as a friend, he also respected every decision he made.


    "Thanks," she said and opened the door.


    Dax, who saw her first, shouted in excitement, "Mommy, why are you only returning now? Where¡¯s Dad?" His adorable voice slowly quieted when he saw an unfamiliar man beside his Mother.


    He walked toward his mom with tiny steps and an alert gaze. He then took Bella¡¯s hand and pulled her away from Carlos. He asked his Mother to lean closer.


    "Mom, who is this doctor?" Dax whispered curiously.


    Bella smiled at her adorable son before standing straight to introduce Carlos.


    "This is Carlos Montana. He¡¯s your father¡¯s personal doctor and also your father¡¯s best friend. He came here to meet you. Say hello to Uncle Carlos," Bella said with a smile.


    Dax awkwardly greeted Carlos, "Hello, Sir¡­" Dax¡¯s child¡¯s voice was stiff, just like his stare.


    "Hi, Daxton. Nice to see you. I¡¯m Carlos, one of this hospital¡¯s doctors and your Dad¡¯s friend. You can call me Uncle Carlos."


    Dax merely nodded. Not a single word came from his lips after that. And not a smile, either.


    Carlos smiled sweetly at Dax, utterly mesmerized by Tristan¡¯s son¡¯s handsomeness. Even though this was their first meeting, he felt he had known him for a long time; Dax looked similar to Tristan¡¯s childhood pictures.


    "Little man, you¡¯re so handsome and adorable, just like your father. Can Uncle Carlos get a hug from you?" He opened his arms, waiting for the adorable little man.


    But after waiting a few seconds, Carlos noticed Dax didn¡¯t move. He only looked at him without any meaningful expression, as if telling him not to talk to him.


    Carlos silently gulped, worried he had angered the little man and become hated. He turned his gaze to Bella, asking with his eyes whether he had made a mistake or frightened Dax.


    "Carlos, I¡¯m sorry, but Dax doesn¡¯t warm up quickly to people he just met," Bella said with an apologetic smile as she gently squeezed Dax¡¯s hand to relax him. She could feel how defensive he was.


    Carlos chuckled internally. He was slightly sorry for intimidating Dax. If Tristan found out, he might be scolded.


    "I understand, Bella. There¡¯s no need to apologize." Carlos smiled at Bella, turned his gaze to Dax, and continued, "Dax, we¡¯ll meet again. Uncle needs to go now..."


    Carlos felt a bit embarrassed and immediately excused himself. He had an important meeting back at his office.


    After Carlos left, Dax finally said, "Mommy, that uncle looks scary..."


    Bella was taken aback. She turned to look at him. "Why did you say that?" she asked curiously.


    A forced smile graced Dax¡¯s lips as he said, "I don¡¯t like a doctor¡­ him!"


    "Did you like Aunty Angie, your Granny Doctor?" Bella asked. She remembered how close Dax was to Doctor Angie during her Mother¡¯s surgery.


    "Hmm¡­ I like female doctors, but not male doctors," he explained while following his Mother inside the room. "They scare me..."


    Bella sighed deeply, recalling the past. It seemed her son was still traumatized. Dax had a bad experience with a male doctor who drew his blood when he was sick. She thought her son had forgotten those times, but it seemed not.


    She smiled at him and said, "Baby, Uncle Carlos was nice. He actually cured me when I had a fever a few days ago."


    "Really?" Dax asked, looking up to meet his Mother¡¯s gaze.


    "Yes. Give Uncle Carlos a chance, please, Dax? You might like him too, just like Uncle Jack."


    "Okay, I¡¯ll try, Mom."


    "Thank you, baby. Alright, can you play with Aunty Noora? I need to talk to your Granny about something important." Bella said. She didn¡¯t want her son to overhear the conversation about Henry, as she didn¡¯t want him to hate Henry, too.


    "Sure, Mom¡­" Dax nodded.


    Dax immediately looked for Aunty Noora in the other room, leaving Bella and Natalie in the living room.


    After Dax left, Bella joined her Mother in the seating area and informed her about her conversation with Henry.


    Natalie feels warm inside hearing how mature her daughter is. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 446: Hopefully, He Will Change

    "Thank you, Bella. You¡¯ve given your brother a chance. He might not deserve it, but you have become a much better person for giving him that chance," Natalie said sincerely.


    Her eyes slowly turned red as she held back her tears. For her, it was enough that she and Lucas were separated; she didn¡¯t want her two children to become enemies and distance themselves from each other.


    "Come on, Mom. Don¡¯t thank me. I¡¯m just doing what I promised Dad and you. Once a family, always a family. I can¡¯t exclude my older brother from our life. What I¡¯m doing now is best for him, whether he likes it or not.


    It¡¯s to help him become more human again. Hopefully, he can change and become a better person," Bella said.


    Natalie nodded in agreement. "I hope so, Bella. I¡¯m also worried because the more I see Henry, the more he reminds me of your father. He¡¯s starting to become like your father."


    "He¡¯s still young. I hope he will change," Bella smiled.


    "Alright, dear. Uhm, and one more thing, I want to give you and Henry the shares your father gave me. You are free to decide how to split it with him. It¡¯s the least I can do to repay your kindness to your terrible brother," Natalie explained. She didn¡¯t need those company shares because she didn¡¯t understand how to do business.


    Bella was surprised to hear her Mother¡¯s wishes. She never imagined she would inherit her father¡¯s shares.


    "Mom, thank you. I appreciate your offer. But I don¡¯t want to accept anything from my father, especially his share in the Donovan Group. You can do whatever you please about it, including giving them all to Henry. But, if I may suggest, don¡¯t let him know about it now. Tell him about it when he is worthy of getting those shares."


    Although Bella conveys her rejection of her Mother¡¯s offer softly, in her mind, she vehemently refuses it. She had already made a vow in her heart that she wouldn¡¯t accept a single penny from her father, even though her father had already given those shares and property to her Mother.


    "Oh, Bella, why refuse the share? Your father has five percent of the shares; you can divide them in half. You both will get 2.5 percent¡­" Natalie was confused. "Even though I don¡¯t understand how much that share is worth, I guess you will receive a lot, right?"


    "Mom, did I tell you that I¡¯m actually the largest shareholder in Donovan Group? I own more than 60 percent," Bella said with a smile, looking at her Mother. "It¡¯s fine, Mom... You just hand those 5 percent to Henry. He is a MAN; he needs that for his future."


    Natalie held Bella¡¯s hand tightly. She still couldn¡¯t believe that her daughter was now the largest shareholder in the family company. How could she do that? Did Tristan help her?


    Before Natalie could ask her, Bella spoke, "Mom, I have a rich husband and my own company as my source of income. You don¡¯t have to worry about me and Dax."


    "Okay, okay, I understand," Natalie smiled. She knew she wouldn¡¯t win the argument if Bella had already made up her mind. "Bella, I will go along with what you¡¯ve arranged for your brother."


    "Thank you, Mom," Bella smiled, feeling happy, "What about the property? Do you want to sell it or keep it?"


    "Let it be. I won¡¯t touch anything that Lucas left for me. I¡¯m happy with my life as it is. As long as you don¡¯t leave me and allow me to stay in my place now to watch my grandson grow up, I don¡¯t need anything else." Natalie¡¯s eyes were blurry as she stared at her daughter.


    Bella felt her heart warm when she heard her Mother¡¯s words. "Mom, of course, you¡¯ll stay with me forever. Don¡¯t think like that again, okay? I won¡¯t leave you alone..." She took her Mother¡¯s hands and gently tapped them.


    "Thank you, dear," Natalie said as she embraced Bella. She felt blessed with her life now, especially after the sadness she had experienced in the past. Finally, God blessed her with this happiness she could share with her only daughter and those around her.


    They continued talking for a few more minutes before Tristan finally arrived.


    Bella was curious about what Tristan had discussed with Henry, but she didn¡¯t have much time now; she needed to rush to her office, so she put aside her curiosity.


    She immediately said goodbye to her Mother and left with Tristan. Meanwhile, Dax would stay with his grandmother and Noora. They will return home this afternoon.


    ***


    At Quantum Capital Building.


    Tristan parked his car in the usual parking lot in the basement near the VIP elevator to go straight to Bella¡¯s office.


    However,


    Before Bella opened the door, Tristan stopped her and said, "Mrs. Sinclair, don¡¯t skip lunch. Remember, you feed two souls inside, three if we include you¡­" He reminded her sternly but with a solid tone of caring and loving. He was actually reluctant to let her go, but he understood her reason.


    Bella nodded, confirming his worry with a sweet smile. She felt her heart warm again, remembering she was pregnant with twins.


    "You know what, Hubby? It¡¯s hard for me to believe that we will have twins. Now, I¡¯m curious: did you have any family members with twins?"


    As far as Bella could remember, she hadn¡¯t heard of anyone in her family having twins. So, she assumed it must be from Tristan¡¯s side.


    "I think so. If I¡¯m not mistaken, it¡¯s from my grandmother¡¯s family. But we haven¡¯t been close with them since my Grandma died," Tristan explained. His eyes showed a faint glint of sadness, but Bella didn¡¯t notice it. Not even the slightest. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I see. No wonder we have twins now," she said excitedly. "Ugh, Tristan, I have to go now. I¡¯m worried Harper will leave without me. She¡¯s very punctual..."


    "Hmm. You can go. But make sure Bryan and Sam follow you to the airport," Tristan said with the same stern tone.

 Chapter 447: Suspicious

    "Sure, I will," Bella faintly said. She already knows how protective Tristan is. And now, because she was pregnant, she was sure Tristan would be even more protective.


    "I hope you go straight home after you send off Harper. No need to stop by the office."


    "That¡¯s my plan. How do you know that?" Bella grinned. When she saw he was about to say something, she continued her words playfully to tease her overprotective husband, "Anything else, Mr. Sinclair...?"


    Tristan said nothing but leaned closer and kissed her lips gently before letting her go.


    "I love you, Bella!"


    "I know that... BYE!" she said and rushed to step out of the car.


    ***


    Bella headed up to the 20th floor to meet Harper, who had repeatedly texted her since she left the hospital, but she had ignored all of her texts.


    She felt at ease since she wasn¡¯t late. They still had thirty minutes to leave for the airport at exactly eleven o¡¯clock.


    As the elevator doors opened, Bella saw Harper standing there with an impatient gaze fixed on her.


    "Geez, girl... I thought you wouldn¡¯t make it!" Harper said excitedly, a delighted smile quickly gracing her face. She had been worried that Bella wouldn¡¯t make it to send her off to the airport; she had heard that Bella¡¯s brother was in the hospital, and she had to rush there early in the morning.


    Bella smiled at Harper, "Why are you in such a rush? Did Jack suddenly ask you to return to New York much earlier than scheduled?" she asked as she walked toward the living room.


    "Of course not, but I have to return for something else. Something important. It¡¯s about my mother. Her birthday is in two days. My dad called me and nagged me to prepare for the birthday party, or he would erase my name from his will. Geez..." Harper chuckled, remembering her father¡¯s phone call scolding her.


    Bella laughed. She could imagine Harper¡¯s father being angry, and suddenly, she missed Harper¡¯s parents. While living in the USA, Bella considered Harper¡¯s loving and humorous parents her second parents.


    "Let¡¯s sit first..." Bella needed to sit down before they left for the airport. Rushing to this place had left her breathless and thirsty. Something that never happened when she felt fit like now.


    ¡¯Huh!? Why am I slowly becoming weak? Does knowing that I¡¯m pregnant inadvertently make me this weak? Could it be!?¡¯ Bella wondered, smiling faintly. She felt amused hearing her own thoughts.


    After settling on the single sofa, she glanced at Sam, who had just come out of his bedroom. He looked neat in his usual office clothes: a black slim-fit shirt and trousers of the same color. But today, he looked casual, wearing white sneakers instead of typical black boots.


    "Sam, can you help me with a glass of water? Or something sweet? I feel so thirsty and hungry after rushing from the hospital to this place," Bella asked, casting her polite smile at Sam.


    "Sure, Boss," Sam immediately headed to the kitchen and brought out cake, chocolate, and a water bottle for her.


    Harper, upon hearing Bella¡¯s words, couldn¡¯t help but gasp. "Girl, you¡¯re not running to get here, are you? You¡¯re sitting in the car while your driver drives, right? How could you be this thirsty and hungry now?"


    Sam, who overheard Harper¡¯s words, was also curious. Why was she suddenly looking tired and hungry? She usually refused to eat when lunch arrived, but now, not even eleven, and she was already hungry. He felt suspicious.


    "Boss, here¡¯s a chocolate bundt cake. I hope you like it. This is the only decent food we have here," Sam said as he placed the cake and water bottle on the table before he sat, waiting for her to respond.


    ¡¯My goodness! Did I act so obviously?¡¯ Bella panicked. Quickly, she tried to think of something to distract them, worrying they would guess she was pregnant, as they usually teased her about it.


    "Thanks, Sam. You know how much I like chocolate bundt cake." Bella said, overly excited, but opened the water bottle instead of eating the cake. Then she looked around, her eyes fixed on Stefan¡¯s computer room.


    "Wait a minute. I don¡¯t see Stefan. Where is he?" she asked, ignoring Harper and Sam¡¯s suspicious gazes.


    Leo, who had just finished his call in the corner, joined Bella and the others on the couch and answered her, "Stefan¡¯s locked himself in the computer room since this morning. He didn¡¯t even come out for breakfast. I don¡¯t know what he¡¯s doing there. It seems like something upset him," he explained.


    Bella frowned. She rarely heard Stefan skip breakfast or ignore her when she visited. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Did something happen to him?¡¯ Bella wondered worriedly. She took out her phone and sent a message to Stefan, letting him know she had stopped by.


    [Bella] Bro, I¡¯m outside. We are about to head to the airport. Do you want to join us?


    After sending the text, she looked at Stefan¡¯s computer room again and waited a few more seconds, but Stefan did not reply. Her worry grew even more apparent. ¡¯Is he alright?¡¯


    Bella put aside her worries and set her eyes on the delicious-looking cake. Several seconds later, she started eating her chocolate bundt cake. But, simultaneously, her eyes fixed in one direction. She¡¯s gazing at Stefan¡¯s computer room.


    Until her snacks and water bottle were empty, Stefan had not yet responded to her short message.


    "Let¡¯s go, Bella. We might be late if we spend too much time here," Harper said as she stood from her seat, ready to leave. She bid Leo goodbye, as he could not accompany her to the airport.


    "Okay, let¡¯s go," Bella replied as she stood up. "Sam, I need you to accompany me to the airport. Please ask Bryan to prepare the car."


    "Yes, Boss," Sam nodded and left.


    Bella followed Harper but stopped right before Stefan¡¯s computer room. She turned to Leo, "Can you ask Stefan to call me when he¡¯s finished?"


    She suspected something had happened to Stefan because he rarely ignored her text messages. He only did this when he wasn¡¯t near his cell phone or busy creating new programs, so he didn¡¯t check his other gadgets.

 Chapter 448: Please Give Me Some Time

    Meanwhile,


    At President Astington¡¯s official residence, Sean Spenser sat in the spacious and luxurious living room, tense as he faced his parents, Jayson Spenser and Emily Stearn. He didn¡¯t like the reason they summoned him here today.


    "My son," Emily Stearn softly called. "You understand why we called you here, right?"


    "Yes, Mother. I understand," Sean faintly responded, silently sighing deeply, knowing his parents wanted to discuss his marriage again.


    Sean despised it when his parents brought up the topic of his marriage. But he couldn¡¯t stop them now because of his promise.


    "Sean, I heard from Amanda that you liked a girl. But, a few days ago, when I asked her again, your aunt said you no longer see the girl. What happened? Did she reject you?" Emily asked innocently.


    When Sean heard his mother¡¯s question, it felt like a hundred nails stabbed his heart. His wounded heart hurt again, remembering his dashed hopes for Bella.


    "Mother," Sean said, "Please, don¡¯t listen to Auntie..." His calm shattered as his expression slowly turned sour.


    Not noticing Sean¡¯s annoyed expression, Emily continued asking, "Was the girl your aunt knows the same girl you promised to bring home to meet us?"


    Emily Stearn remembered her son had promised to introduce them to a girl but had never done so. Sean might not appear before them if they didn¡¯t call him now until the year changed.


    Sean said nothing but let out a deep sigh. He could feel his anger flashing through his eyes as he remembered the girl he loved who couldn¡¯t be his. He lowered his gaze and looked at his hand on his lap, avoiding eye contact with his parents.


    However, not long after, Jayson Spencer¡¯s deep voice echoed, "Sean..." His eyes stared intensely at his son. "Don¡¯t put that expression before your mother," he said calmly, but Sean felt like his father was slapping him right in the face.


    Hurriedly, he adjusted his expression and calmed his raging heart. "I¡¯m sorry, Mom. I just struggle to control my emotions," Sean said while smiling at her.


    Emily Stearn smiled lovingly at her son before turning to see her husband. She said, "Jayson, don¡¯t scold Sean. Our son might be stressed because we pressured him to find his future wife."


    "Oh, Emily, he¡¯s becoming stubborn because you pamper him. He¡¯s no longer young; he¡¯s thirty-one now..." Jayson said before turning his eyes to Sean. His gaze slowly turned cold, putting even more pressure on Sean.


    Emily couldn¡¯t refute her husband. She could only sigh while looking sadly at Sean.


    "You¡¯re the one who made a promise, Sean." Jayson Spencer¡¯s voice sounded stiff, no longer as soft and gentle as before. "You asked for time until you were thirty to bring your girl to us, but as of today, you are already thirty-one; we still haven¡¯t heard anything from you. I hope you still remember your promise, my son!"


    "I still remember, Father," Sean answered. "But finding a woman to marry is not easy; it¡¯s like looking for a needle in a haystack."


    "I agree. That¡¯s why we didn¡¯t pressure you until you were in your thirties. But how long will you stay single? Even your cousin Rose already has three children now. I¡¯m so jealous of my little brother, Nicholas. He already has a grandchild," Jayson expressed his concern.


    Sean couldn¡¯t help but vent his frustration inwardly to Rose and Evan. They married way too young, and they also have many kids now. From the looks of it, he needs to visit them to ask them to stop showing off their happy family before his parents. Damn it, you two!


    Jayson took a deep breath when he saw that Sean had not said anything, even though he looked like he had a lot to say in his mind. He opened his mouth to speak but stopped when Emily held his arm.


    He turned to look at Emily, only to see her shake her head as if asking him not to pressure Sean. He smiled at her and pressed his lips, deciding to let her handle their only son.


    "Thank you, my love," Emily whispered to Jayson before she turned to look at Sean.


    "Son, as you promised, if you don¡¯t have a girlfriend by the time you turn thirty-one, you¡¯ll allow us to arrange a marriage for you. You do remember that, right?"


    "Mom, Dad, how could I find a girlfriend right now? You both know I don¡¯t have any free time outside of my military duties. I just returned from my mission, so I don¡¯t have time for that," Sean said, looking at them helplessly. He silently prayed that they wouldn¡¯t arrange a marriage for him.


    He really detested the idea of starting a relationship with someone he didn¡¯t like, only to be forcefully married to her. He would rather stay single or choose a partner for himself. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Choose a partner for me...¡¯ Suddenly, something flashed through his mind.


    "I¡¯m not in a rush. Just consider me if you¡¯re trying to move on. Or, if your parents force you to marry the girl they choose, please consider me too. I¡¯m the woman who likes you, and you already know that¡ª" Harper¡¯s voice rang in his mind, awakening his confusion to answer his mother¡¯s question.


    Slowly, a warm feeling spread in Sean¡¯s heart as he realized he still had a way to avoid an arranged marriage.


    However, before Sean could say anything, Jayson Spencer spoke again, "Sean, that¡¯s why your uncle transferred you to the capital. You no longer need to do secret missions in the field so that you have a chance to find your life partner."


    Jayson Spencer no longer sounded pushy. He didn¡¯t really want to pressure Sean, but his age made him worry.


    "Please give me time. I promise I will bring her to meet you." Sean no longer cared about his wounded heart. He had to move on now, or he would be forced into an arranged marriage and likely marry someone he didn¡¯t know.


    Emily Stearn¡¯s eyes lit up slowly as she heard Sean¡¯s words.


    ___


    Author notes:


    If you want to read about Rose and Evan, you can read my book with the title (Rebirth: Dancing In My Destiny)

 Chapter 449: Promises He Shouldn’t Have Made

    "Oh my God, Sean, you have a girl you like?" Emily¡¯s eyes beamed happily.


    "Yes, Mother..." Sean answered calmly, even though he scolded himself inwardly for lying to her.


    "Heaven! So what are you waiting for? Go pursue her and bring her to meet us."


    "Mother, please, don¡¯t put pressure on me now. I don¡¯t want to rush her. I want my relationship with her to flow and grow naturally." Sean silently gulped. "Otherwise, she might run away if she knows you want her as your daughter-in-law when I introduce you to her for the first time..."


    Hearing his own lengthy words, Sean started worrying about giving his mother high hopes.


    ¡¯Wow, that¡¯s a big lie, Man. Stop lying! Stop it! Or you¡¯ll be in trouble!¡¯


    Now, he started worrying, imagining how he¡¯d ask Harper to pretend to be his girlfriend. The biggest question that bothered him this time was, "Will Harper accept his request to help him by pretending to be his girlfriend?"


    "Hahaha, I¡¯m sorry, dear. Your mom is so happy to hear you have someone you like, at least a woman. Waah, now I can sleep well. Right, Jayson?" Emily Stearn said while giggling like a teenager talking to her boyfriend. She was so happy.


    "Hmm," Jayson smiled while patting her hand lovingly.


    Sean, "..."


    "Mom, I hope you won¡¯t be disappointed when you find out about her."


    Sean was a little concerned about Harper¡¯s status as a foreigner. His family had never had a daughter-in-law from another country, and his grandfather was one of the founders of their country; he was very nationalistic.


    "What do you mean?" Jayson Spencer asked, his brow slightly raised. He expressed concern that his son might encounter a criminal or a disreputable woman¡ªa gold digger.


    Sean looked at his father. A half-smile slowly appeared on his lips.


    "Dad, I¡¯m not sure if you and Mom will like her once you know her."


    With a deep sigh, Sean realized he was sinking deeper into the drama he¡¯d created. He hadn¡¯t even spoken to Harper yet but had already decided on their future. How stupid!


    "Don¡¯t worry, my son. As long as she¡¯s a woman," Emily stifled a smile while clearing her throat before she continued, "she¡¯s not someone else¡¯s wife, not a criminal, and not our family¡¯s enemy. Mom will accept her with all my heart."


    "Dad also agrees with what your mother said," Jayson Spenser chimed in.


    "Understood!" Sean faintly said. Hearing his parents¡¯ words made him feel even more pressured.


    The problem is how he could contact Harper and ask her to meet his parents a few days ahead. He remembered she would fly back to New York any day now.


    He feels blank! For the first time after so many months, he never felt this way, as if a black hole had just sucked everything in his mind. He lost the ability to reason and didn¡¯t favor this.


    Sean didn¡¯t stay there for long. He refused his mother¡¯s invitation to lunch and excused himself to leave because he had an important meeting in his office. He was distressed that his father could read his anxiety.


    However, Sean¡¯s cell phone rang just before he entered his black Hummer. When he checked the new text message, the stiff, worried expression that had framed his face since he left the living room slowly changed to a relaxed, warm smile.


    [Harper] Hi, I¡¯m on my way to the airport. Until we meet again, Sean Spencer. Bye! (Smile emoji) (Waving emoji)


    ¡¯So you leave today...¡¯ Sean sighed deeply as he stared at the text message for a few more seconds without doing anything, confused about whether to reply.


    After thinking for a few more seconds about what to do, Sean finally typed a reply to her text message.


    "Harper, sorry for asking this, but can you stay for a few more days?"


    Sean didn¡¯t press the send button immediately but read the words several times. For some unknown reason, he feels weird asking her things like that.


    ¡¯Damn it, Sean! What the hell are you doing? How could you ask her to stay now? She is on her way to the airport¡ª¡¯


    He sighs deeply while gazing at the blue sky, trying to think logically.


    However, the more he thinks, the more he finds this amusing because he rarely feels confused when facing a woman. He remembers that he only becomes a fool if related to Bella.


    Sigh!


    Sean blames himself for promising his parents that Harper would meet them.


    Another deep, long sigh escaped from his lips.


    "What are you doing there?" A familiar woman¡¯s voice shocked Sean, making him reflexively hide his phone behind him. Unbeknownst to him, he accidentally pressed ¡¯Send¡¯ without knowing he did it.


    Sean adjusted his surprised expression to appear calm as he placed his cell phone back in his pocket. He turned to look at the woman.


    "What do you mean with what I¡¯m doing here, Kei?" Sean asked, smirking. "Of course, I¡¯m meeting Mom and Dad! What about you? What are you doing here at this hour?"


    A beautiful smile graced Keira Spencer¡¯s face as she lightly punched her older brother¡¯s shoulder. "Geez! What a stupid question. Did you forget I live here?"


    Sean chuckled.


    "What I¡¯m trying to say is, why are you not in your office?" he narrowed his eyes. "Did Rose fire you for shopping around at working hours instead of work?" S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha," Keira laughed. "Sister Rose loves me, alright! She would never fire me even if I did that. I have a work meeting near home, so I come home to eat lunch with Mom and Dad. How about you, bro? Not staying for lunch?"


    Keira rarely saw her older brother. Even though he had already returned to the capital, he had decided to stay in his own apartment near his office.


    Sean shook his head. He immediately got into the car. After rolling down the window, he glanced at Keira. "I have to go now. I have a meeting in the office."


    "Drive safe, bro..."


    He said nothing but waved before hitting the gas pedal and slowly leaving the yard.


    Sean decides to return to his office first and thinks about contacting Harper.


    Somehow, he feels relieved because he did not send the text message. It would have been super awkward if she had stayed, and he would have had to explain to her today why he asked her to stay.


    "You did the right thing not to send the text message, man!" Sean muttered while smiling bitterly at the drama he had created, digging his own grave!

 Chapter 450: The Reason To Comeback

    At Astington International Airport, Harper almost tripped over her own feet when she read the text message she had just received.


    [Sean] Harper, sorry for asking this, but can you stay for a few more days?


    "Wow! Wow! Be careful, Harper Reed..." Bella said as she held Harper¡¯s other hand to help her stand properly. "This is why you can¡¯t play with your cell phone while walking. You might fall without knowing it!" she scolded.


    Bryan and Sam, who followed them while dragging Harper¡¯s suitcase, stifled a laugh.


    "Ugh! Sorry..." Harper smiled awkwardly, placing her phone back in her black trench coat pocket.


    Harper was too shocked to see Sean reply to her text message to pay attention to her surroundings.


    She wanted to reread the text to confirm if she hadn¡¯t misread it because, lately, she had always imagined receiving a text from him. She was worried this was just her imagination. But Bella was walking right next to her and might see who sent the message.


    While following Bella to the airport¡¯s enormous, beautiful lounge, Harper tried to restrain herself from looking at her phone. She was waiting for the right time to check her cell phone.


    After a few more minutes of walking, they finally decided to have lunch at an Italian restaurant on the corner. It wasn¡¯t as crowded as other places; only a few tables were occupied.


    "Where do you want to sit?" Bella asked, glancing at Harper, who looked quiet and less enthusiastic than before. This made her suspicious that Harper had just received a text message that had made her mood drop to zero.


    "Anywhere. Hurry, we don¡¯t have much time, girl..." Harper said while following Bella, who walked to a quiet corner with a view overlooking the airport waiting room. They could see passengers and their escorts coming and going from where they were sitting.


    Not long after, the waiter finished taking their orders, as did Sam and Bryan¡¯s orders, who were sitting at the table next to them.


    "What happened, Harper? You look strange. You look like you just saw something that ruined your mood..." Bella finally asked, seeing her best friend looking anxious and tense. "Did you receive some bad news?" she guessed.


    ¡¯Damn, Bella! How could you guess it... almost right?¡¯ Harper vented sarcasm in her mind while smiling at her, trying to adjust her expression so as not to raise Bella¡¯s suspicions.


    Harper immediately shook her head while trying to smile naturally at Bella. "I just feel bad because I have to leave you again, and I don¡¯t know when I can come back," she sincerely said.


    Bella also sighed deeply. She had already become attached to Harper, even though she had only been staying for a few weeks.


    "Yeah, me too. I¡¯m so sad. If you have time, please visit us. Dax might be missing you," Bella said, pausing when she remembered something. "Oh, right, Harper, you should come when it¡¯s his birthday."


    "My goodness! How could I forget that?" Harper¡¯s smile grew wider as she had a reason to revisit the country. "You¡¯re right, girl. I never miss his birthday."


    Harper felt a surge of joy. She now had a valid reason to return to the country: Dax¡¯s birthday party and the opportunity to meet Sean. She couldn¡¯t wait for the time to come faster, and she had the chance to pursue Sean.


    They continued talking while eating their lunch. Bella chose Prawn Pasta, while Harper decided to eat a light lunch: pizza. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Harper lost her appetite because now her mind was filled with short text messages from Sean that she wanted to reread.


    As Bella continued to talk, Harper¡¯s mind was busy thinking about Sean.


    ¡¯Why did Sean ask me to stay? Has he decided to give me a chance to pursue him?¡¯ Harper heard her own thoughts and smiled foolishly while chewing her tasteless pizza.


    Later,


    After finishing her lunch, Bella excused herself to go to the restroom.


    However,


    Bella was surprised to find Bryan and Sam following her. She stopped and turned to see them.


    "You both don¡¯t need to worry; the restroom is not far," she said, pointing in that direction a few meters ahead of them. Yet, the two tall men ignored her. They continued to follow her, causing confusion among the people around them as they stood in front of the women¡¯s restroom door.


    Harper smiled, looking at Bella with her two bodyguards. But her smile slowly faded; she couldn¡¯t waste this opportunity to check her cell phone.


    Her heart raced when she saw Sean¡¯s message still in her inbox.


    ¡¯OMG! He really replied to my text. Why did he suddenly text and ask me to stay?¡¯ She read the text message several times, "Harper, sorry for asking this, but can you stay for a few more days?"


    After calming her mind and heart, Harper replied, "I¡¯m sorry, Sean. I can¡¯t..." She sent the text and wanted to type the following message. However, Bella¡¯s voice startled her.


    "Harper, are you done with your lunch?" Bella asked, sitting opposite her, sipping her orange juice.


    "Yeah," Harper answered, awkwardly smiling at Bella. She returned her cell phone and felt terrible because she had not yet texted Sean to tell him why she couldn¡¯t stay longer in this country. It was Her Mother¡¯s birthday, and she never misses spending a day with her Mother on her special day.


    "Harper, are you ready to check in your luggage and go through immigration, or do you want to stay here for another minute?" Bella asks, glancing at her watch.


    Bella noticed that Harper seemed distracted several times and assumed she had received bad news, possibly related to her family. Not wanting to pry, Bella decided not to ask Harper about it further.


    Hearing Bella¡¯s question made Harper feel even guiltier, as she wanted to leave Bella as quickly as possible for the first time. This time, she was too worried that her refusal might give Sean the wrong impression.


    With a heavy heart, Harper nodded at Bella and said, "I think I should check in now, Bella. I¡¯ve never flown from this airport before, and I¡¯m afraid I might have trouble finding my gate."


    "Okay, let Sam and Bryan help you," Bella said, standing up and leading them to the check-in area.

 Chapter 451: A Relieved Smile After The Chaos He Created

    Harper took a deep breath, feeling a mix of emotions.


    Saying goodbye was hard, but lying to her best friend was even worse. She felt awful for not being honest with Bella about her feelings for Sean Spencer.


    Harper knew she couldn¡¯t keep this from Bella for long. Still, she decided to keep it a secret until she knew her relationship with Sean was going in the direction she planned and hoped for.


    And, if Sean rejects her, Harper realizes there is no point in letting Bella know her feelings toward Sean.


    "Girl, it¡¯s time for us to part ways again," Harper said, her voice trembling with sadness. She hugged Bella tightly and continued, "I promise you, I¡¯ll be here in November to celebrate your birthday and Dax¡¯s. Take care of yourself, and don¡¯t work so hard, hmm!?"


    "Hmm, I will," Bella said while smiling.


    Bella continued, "You too, take care and have fun! Don¡¯t work too hard. Let Boss Jack Foster handle the office matters." She chuckled as she released her embrace and noticed tears welling up in Harper¡¯s eyes. "Don¡¯t cry..."


    Harper waved her hands near her face, trying to stop the tears from flowing. "Sure, I will! I will make him work like our slave..." He stifled a laugh; imagine Jack complained.


    "I¡¯ll be waiting for your return in November, Harper! You have to come and bring Jack, too... I miss him already," Bella said, fighting back tears. She didn¡¯t want to cry, fearing Harper might start sobbing too.


    "Sure, I will drag him to come with me. Okay, okay... I¡¯ll go now, Bella... Bryan, Sam...bye!" Harper smiled at them and walked away. She can¡¯t stay there for too long, or she might cry.


    "Harper, next time you come, bring my brother-in-law too!" Bella shouted after her.


    Harper almost choked. She said nothing and simply waved her hand without turning to see Bella and the others.


    Bella smiled as she watched Harper walk away. She stood where she was until her best friend was out of sight. Then she turned to see Bryan and Sam standing near her.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go, guys¡­" she said and started walking.


    "Where are we going, ma¡¯am?" Bryan asked, glancing at her.


    "Home. I¡¯m tired and need to sleep," Bella answered, covering her mouth to hide her yawn. This surprised Sam, who noticed the changes in her that he saw today.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am!" Bryan felt relieved. He had already received orders from his boss, Tristan, to ensure Bella returned home after they finished sending off Harper.


    ***


    Astington Military Base.


    Sean had just parked his car in the outdoor parking area of the tallest building. Before he turned off the engine, his cell phone suddenly vibrated in his pocket, indicating that he had received a text message.


    He didn¡¯t rush to check it. Instead, he stepped out of his car and leisurely walked toward the building.


    After some time, he finally checked his cell phone, thinking the short text message was work-related.


    However, Sean¡¯s steps abruptly halted when he saw the sender¡¯s name.


    "Harper? Why did she text again?"


    A furrow appeared on his forehead as he opened the text message.


    Instantly, his knees felt like they were turning to jelly. He was shocked to read her reply:


    [Harper] I¡¯m sorry, Sean. I can¡¯t...


    "What does she mean?" The line on his forehead became even more apparent. Seconds later, a scary thought crossed his mind. "Damn it!" he cursed while checking his chat history with her.


    His heart sank when he saw the text he had sent to her.


    "What the hell!! How could I send such a text to her?"


    Sean clearly remembered not sending the text when encountering his sister Keira earlier.


    Sighing deeply, Sean read Harper¡¯s reply a few more times. For some unknown reason, reading her refusal disappointed him. The feeling almost matched when Bella rejected him.


    "So, she can¡¯t...?" He murmured as his lips slightly curled into a frosty smile. He shook his head slightly while continuing to talk to himself. "Man, it looks like you lost your opportunity¡ª"


    Gazing around and finding no one there, Sean continued to walk, heading to his office.


    A few female and male staff members greeted him politely as Sean entered the building; however, he said nothing and only nodded slightly at them. His mind was still busy thinking about why Harper rejected him just like that.


    ¡¯Did she start to think about giving up pursuing me?¡¯ he wondered while entering the empty elevator. His mind reeled back to the last encounter with Harper. At that time, he didn¡¯t say much to her.


    ¡¯Man! You are really not polite to a woman, huh!¡¯ he scolded himself inwardly.


    After a few more seconds, the elevator finally arrived at his office floor. A few staff greeted him again, but he said nothing back and walked straight to his office.


    When he settled in his seat, his cell phone vibrated again. He casually checked it, and his phone almost slipped from his hand upon reading the name written there: Harper.


    [Harper] I can¡¯t stay because I must return home. My mother¡¯s birthday is the day after tomorrow.


    A relieved smile slowly appeared on his lips as he read her text message.


    [Harper] But I will return in November for Dax¡¯s birthday. Hope to meet you at that time, Sean. (Smile emoji)


    Just before Sean wanted to type something, his cell phone vibrated again.


    [Harper] I¡¯m boarding now. See you! (Smile emoji)


    Without thinking, Sean typed quickly, hoping she would read it before she turned off her cell phone, "Inform me when you¡¯ve safely landed."


    After he sent that, Sean immediately turned his phone on silent mode and placed it on his table. He was too worried he would send her another stupid text message.


    ***


    At the villa on the city¡¯s outskirts,


    Marco sat in his office with two men opposite him. His impatient gaze was fixed on one of his men, who was speaking to someone over the phone.


    After a while, the man finally finished talking, and with delighted eyes, he looked at Marco.


    "How did it go, Billy?" Marco asked impatiently, eager to hear the good news.


    Today was the first time they had successfully followed Arabella Donovan. It seemed like a stroke of luck that they managed to do so without being caught by her bodyguards.


    His curiosity about Arabella Donovan grew stronger daily because those who guarded her always ruined his plans. They all looked professional and powerful enough to spot his people.


    "Master, we finally know where she lives!" Billy said as he put his cell phone in his pocket. "She lives in Little Heaven."


    "Little Heaven?" Marco was shocked. The area was restricted and high-security; only residents and their guests could enter. What he had heard about that place was that only certain people in the country could buy property there, so even if he wanted to buy, he couldn¡¯t. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Master. That¡¯s why our people could only follow her until her car and some of her escort cars entered the area," Billy explained. "Arabella Donovan...seriously, Master, who is she? Why are there people guarding her like she¡¯s the First Lady?"


    Marco said nothing, but his curiosity about that woman grew even more.

 Chapter 452: Telling Dax

    The next day.


    Bella woke up feeling unwell. Her head was slightly dizzy, and she was feeling nauseous. It seemed like she was starting to experience morning sickness again, just like when she was pregnant with Dax.


    Not wanting to wake Tristan, Bella slowly got out of bed and went to the bathroom to wash her face and drink water.


    After freshening up, she looked for Tristan, who was still asleep at seven in the morning. It was unusual to see him sleeping at that time.


    ¡¯Did he stay up all night?¡¯ she thought, noticing Tristan¡¯s laptop on the corner of the desk. She felt sorry for waking him up. So she let him sleep a little longer.


    Bella decided to check on Dax and was surprised to see him opening his bedroom door.


    "Baby, you look so cute," Bella smiled while approaching him. Dax already looked fresh and neat in his casual home clothes. "Done with your workout?"


    "Yes, Mom. You know what? Uncle Geoffrey already taught me a few advanced moves, and I¡¯m excited to learn more."


    Bella was surprised to hear that. She thought Geoffrey would only train Dax¡¯s physique and leg strength as a foundation for the next few months.


    "Wow, so fast?"


    "Yes. My teacher said I learned diligently and grew faster and stronger than any kids my age he knew. That¡¯s why my progress is much faster than he expected," Dax explained happily.


    Looking at his enthusiasm, she felt her heart swell with pride for her son. She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt like crying, imagining he would become an excellent big brother to his siblings.


    ¡¯Should I tell him now?¡¯ Bella wondered if she should tell him about her pregnancy. She took his hand and squeezed it gently.


    However, before she could tell him, her promise to Tristan that they would share the good news with Dax flashed in her mind. She sighed deeply while thinking.


    "Mommy?" Dax was worried when he looked into his mother¡¯s red eyes. It seemed like she was about to cry. "What happened? Why are you crying?"


    Realizing she was on the verge of tears, Bella quickly turned her gaze away, hiding her blurry eyes. After a few more seconds, she looked at him again.


    "Baby, Mom is fine..." Bella felt terrible for making her son worry like this. "Alright, let¡¯s wake Daddy up. We have something to tell you."


    Bella decided to share her pregnancy news with her son today because she couldn¡¯t keep this good news a secret.


    When they entered the bedroom, Tristan was still fast asleep.


    "Huh!? Dad¡¯s still sleeping?" Dax was surprised. He approached the bed and sat at the edge of it.


    "Your daddy worked until dawn, so Mom let him sleep more. You can wake him now," Bella said, opening the window curtains and the veranda door to let in the fresh air.


    "Good morning, Daddy..."


    Bella turned to see the bed when she heard Tristan finally awake. Her heart felt warm as she saw Tristan cuddle their son.


    "Good morning, buddy..." Tristan greeted him while pulling him into his arms, causing little Dax to giggle and ask him to stop.


    Tristan chuckled. He finally stopped holding his son in his arms and glanced at Bella, sitting at the edge of the bed.


    "Good morning, beautiful. Why didn¡¯t you wake me up?" He asked while smiling at her.


    "Good morning. I let you rest more," Bella said, narrowing her eyes at him. "Can you please stop working until morning? Your health is more important than your company."


    Bella couldn¡¯t resist scolding Tristan because she was too worried about his health. He works too hard leading his business empire but always forgets to rest.


    "Yes, Daddy, please take care of your health," Little Dax suddenly chimed in, looking worried as he addressed his father, "Please don¡¯t make my mommy angry or even cry like this morning."


    Bella was taken aback by her son¡¯s honesty. ¡¯Geez! Can you not say that, baby? Daddy will worry...¡¯


    Tristan was stunned. He immediately sat up, looking at Bella with concern.


    "Cry? Why did your mommy cry?" Tristan asked, clearly worried. He looked at Bella, "Darling, are you not feeling well?" he asked. He started to worry if her pregnancy was making her uncomfortable.


    "No, I feel better. But I was too emotional thinking about sharing the good news with our son," Bella replied. She tried to signal Tristan to tell Dax about her pregnancy.


    Tristan frowned slightly upon hearing her words. Confused.


    "What good news, Mom? Dad?" Dax was curious. He sat up between his parents, looking at them anxiously.


    "Mom and Daddy will tell you the good news we wanted to share with you..." Bella smiled, looking at Tristan, who seemed still confused.


    Tristan¡¯s eyebrow slightly raised as if he wanted to ask her with his gaze, "Seriously? You want to tell him now?"


    Bella smiled at him and nodded.


    Tristan looked at their son. He held Dax¡¯s shoulder with one hand, "Buddy, congratulations, you will become a big brother..."


    "Big brother?" Dax¡¯s eyes were wide open, surprised by the news, "Really? Mom, Dad, really?" he asked, feeling unreal with the news.


    "Yes, baby..." Bella felt warm in her heart, looking at her son¡¯s beaming eyes. She continued, "And you will have not only one sibling but two..."


    "What? I will have two brothers, sisters...?" Dax¡¯s mouth gaped, stunned.


    "Hmm..." Bella nodded, "But we do not yet know the gender. We will wait a few more weeks," she explained. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax opened his mouth, but no words left his lips; he was too emotional to know he would soon become a big brother.


    "Are you happy, buddy?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes...yes...I¡¯m so happy," Dax said, nodding.


    Tristan smiled while embracing Bella and Dax. He was so happy to finally tell their son about it.


    "Baby... Mom and Dad feel so happy, too. That¡¯s why we can¡¯t wait any longer to share with you," Bella said. "But, please keep this to yourself. We need a few more weeks before telling everyone."


    "Not even Granny and Gramps?" Dax asked, confused.


    "Yes. We¡¯ll wait for a few more weeks. Alright?"


    "Hmm, understood."


    The three hugged for a while before Noora finally came to call them for breakfast.

 Chapter 453: A Smart Sam

    The day went by quickly and uneventfully. Without realizing it, Tristan and Bella spent the morning with Dax at home. They only managed to leave the house after lunch, as both had to go to the office.


    When Bella saw the new car parked in the front yard, she was surprised.


    "New car?" she asked while sitting in the passenger seat. Tristan usually drove her in a low-key SUV, but now, the car looked glamorous and expensive.


    "Yes. The old car broke down, so this is the next cheapest one in the garage," he replied with a random excuse. He needed to change the car they used daily to distract someone who tried to follow his wife.


    Bella was speechless; how could a new Mercedes-AMG GT be the cheapest option? She said nothing but slightly shook her head, showing disbelief.


    Tristan smiled at her as he gently closed the door before hurrying to sit behind the wheel.


    Finally, the car left the yard. The street to the business district at noon wasn¡¯t too busy, and they arrived at Quantum Capital ten minutes early.


    "Thank you, hubby," Bella leaned closer and kissed his cheek. "What time are you done with work?" she continued.


    "I¡¯ll pick you up as usual at five," he responded, staring back at her lovingly.


    "Alright. Ugh, I have to go now," Bella smiled at him while gathering her things and immediately opened the door. "Drive safely," she said and left.


    Bella didn¡¯t head to her office on the 19th floor but went straight to the 20th to meet Stefan. She was still curious about him.


    Arriving on the 20th floor, she met Sam, who had just finished his lunch and now held an ice cream. He looked surprised to see her.


    "Boss, you¡¯ve come," Sam politely greeted her. "Boss, do you want some?" He offered her ice cream when he saw her eyes look at the cup of ice cream in his hand.


    Bella couldn¡¯t ignore her appetite when she saw vanilla ice cream. She nodded and took Sam¡¯s medium cup of ice cream right away. She enjoyed it while walking to the living room and settling on the single sofa.


    "Is Stefan still busy in his computer room?" Bella asked, noticing Sam sitting opposite her.


    "Yes. But today, he came out for breakfast, even though he didn¡¯t talk much. And I tried to tell him about his meal before lunch, but he didn¡¯t respond," Sam replied.


    Bella frowned as she glanced toward Stefan¡¯s computer room. "Did he sleep there?"


    "Probably¡­ because I never see him at night," Sam answered, looking at Stefan¡¯s computer room with concern.


    A few seconds later, Sam turned to Bella again before he could say anything. His eyes were fixed on her ice cream, and he was surprised to see her finish it faster than him.


    ¡¯Didn¡¯t she always refuse the medium-sized cup because she was on a diet? Why does she accept it now? And finish it so quickly?¡¯ Sam¡¯s suspicions began to rise as he noticed the changes in her.


    For a few moments, Sam observed her, trying to figure something out. After a few more seconds, his thoughts gave him goosebumps.


    ¡¯She must be pregnant now¡­¡¯ Sam smiled as the thought flashed through his mind. ¡¯Should I test her?¡¯ He knew Bella might deny it if he asked her directly.


    "Boss, we have a delicious apple pie. Do you want a slice?" Sam casually offered, trying not to be too obvious about his suspicions. When he saw her frown, he continued, "Or ice cream? We still have plenty in the fridge," trying to sound as casual as he could. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella silently gulped when she heard about apple pie and ice cream. She stared at Sam with mixed emotions. She didn¡¯t want him to see her eat more, but she still felt hungry.


    Before Bella could refuse, her stomach growled as if the twins inside were asking to be fed.


    "Sam, can you bring me the apple pie and ice cream here?"


    Though Sam was surprised by her response, he remained calm as he walked to the kitchen to avoid making her Boss feel terrible for being gluttonous. He soon returned with ice cream and apple pie and handed them to her.


    "Thank you, Sam," Bella expressed her gratitude with a delighted smile.


    Sam sat again in his seat, observing her finish her pie in just a few minutes; now, she was enjoying her ice cream.


    ¡¯Positive! She must be pregnant,¡¯ Sam concluded his observation with a happy smile.


    "Boss, did Stefan get in trouble?" Sam asked, trying to distract her.


    "Hmm, I guess so. He hasn¡¯t replied to my texts," Bella answered.


    "I see," Sam said, smiling. "Boss, would you mind telling me the truth if I ask this? Uhm, are you pregnant?"


    "Mhmm, six weeks¡ª" Bella felt her heart sink when she realized she had answered Sam without thinking, revealing her pregnancy.


    She stopped eating her ice cream and slowly looked up at Sam, hoping he hadn¡¯t heard her answer. However, seeing him smile widely with his eyes beaming, she knew her hope was shattered.


    "You heard...?"


    "Congratulations, boss," Sam sincerely expressed his happiness. "I¡¯m so happy for you, Boss Tristan, and Dax¡­"


    Bella could only sigh deeply. It seemed she couldn¡¯t hide her pregnancy any longer, especially from someone as perceptive as Sam.


    "Thank you," Bella faintly smiled at him, "But please do me a favor, Sam."


    "Of course, Boss. What is it?" Sam asked, raising an eyebrow slightly.


    "Do not tell anyone about my pregnancy," Bella said.


    Though Sam was confused about why Bella didn¡¯t want to share this happy news, he still nodded. "Sure, Boss. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t tell anyone."


    "Thank you," Bella said, feeling relieved. She placed the empty ice cream cup on the table and stood up. "Alright, you can continue your work. I need to talk to Stefan..."


    Bella knocked on the door several times, but there was no sign that Stefan had heard it. She guessed he might have been using his earphones, so he didn¡¯t hear the knock.


    She took her phone from her bag and called him, but his phone was inactive. After trying a few times, the result was still the same.


    "What the hell, Stefan? Are you still alive there?" Bella shouted, shocking Sam and causing him to return hurriedly. "Please answer, huh! Stop making me worry!"

 Chapter 454: Confront Stefan

    "Boss, what happened?" Sam asked worriedly.


    Bella threw her cell phone in her bag before responding to him.


    Later, she turned to face him.


    "Sam, do you have a spare key for this room? I¡¯m starting to worry that Stefan might have died there." Bella sighed deeply while looking at the door again. "That¡¯s why he hasn¡¯t responded to the noise I¡¯m making or answered my phone calls. This really worries me..."


    "Die!?" Sam almost laughed at her words. He cleared his throat slightly before continuing, "I¡¯m sorry, Boss. I don¡¯t have a spare key for this room, but maybe Leo does. However, he¡¯s in Nova City right now."


    Bella was not happy with Sam¡¯s answer. She looked at the sturdy door before her again.


    "Sam, can you break this door?" Bella asked. "You might have to break the keyhole or kick the door harder... force it to open."


    Her request took him aback. "I can try if you insist, Boss," Sam said.


    "Hmm, do it!" Bella answered firmly. She couldn¡¯t let Stefan stay trapped inside; the only option was to break the door to find out what had happened inside.


    "Wait here...I need a tool to open that door," Sam said before walking to his room. Later, he reappeared.


    "What the hell is that for? Bella was speechless to see Sam carrying a pistol. She thought he¡¯d gone to find a hammer or tools to open the door, but instead, he brought a gun. Gosh!


    "No worries, Boss. I have a license for this pistol. Why are you shocked, Boss? With this big pistol¡¯s bullet, any door would be opened easily." Sam smiled while positioning himself before the door.


    Before he shot, he looked at Bella again. He smiled, noticing how worried she seemed. "Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll use a silencer. No one will even notice when I shoot the door¡¯s lock."


    "Go ahead, but make sure you shoot it to open the door and not Stefan," Bella warned him, afraid Sam might accidentally injure Stefan.


    Sam couldn¡¯t help but laugh. "Hahaha, did you forget I¡¯m an excellent marksman in the special forces?"


    "Ah, you¡¯re right," Bella said, stepping back a few meters from Sam.


    However, the door swung open before Sam could shoot, with Stefan standing there looking horrified.


    "What, what the hell, Samuel Brown? Why did you want to murder me?" Stefan stammered in shock. He raised his hands as if to shield himself from bullets. "Are you drunk? Or have you gone crazy?"


    Stefan was utterly shocked to see Sam standing there, pointing a gun at him, with a scary look in his eyes.


    Holding back his laughter, Sam looked at Stefan¡¯s pale and frightened expression. He calmly locked his pistol, ignored Stefan, and turned to face Bella.


    "Boss, your brother is alive," Sam said faintly. "Alright, Boss, I¡¯ll go now. You can punish him," he added sarcastically.


    Sam turned back to Stefan, noticing his shocked expression as he looked at Bella.


    "Stefan, you made Boss Bella worry. How dare you ignore her calls? Even Jack Foster never ignores her," Sam scolded as he tapped Stefan¡¯s shoulder before leaving.


    Stefan¡¯s jaw dropped upon hearing Sam¡¯s words. It was only then that he realized Bella was there. His eyes widened in shock as he no longer heard Sam¡¯s sentence. He felt too nervous seeing Bella looking at him with an unusual expression.


    "S-Sis... Sister, when did you get here? Why didn¡¯t you call me?" Stefan stammered as he scratched his head, even though it wasn¡¯t itchy.


    Bella shook her head slowly. Despite feeling the urge to smack his head, she held back when she saw his tired and innocent expression.


    "We need to talk, Stefan. Follow me!" Bella said as she walked toward the sitting area in the living room.


    Stefan nodded as he followed her but didn¡¯t join her immediately. Instead, he continued walking to the kitchen. "Sis, would you like a cold drink?" he asked, opening the refrigerator. "Or maybe a cold beer? Soda?"


    Bella sighed. She wanted beer or soda, but remembering her pregnancy, she dismissed the idea. "Cold water, please."


    "Why did you ignore my calls?" Bella asked when she saw him finally sit opposite her, sipping his cold beer.


    "Oh, you called? I didn¡¯t hear anything," he grinned. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella sighed deeply and asked, "Are you alright? You look like you haven¡¯t slept in days." She noticed his pale face and messy hair.


    "Sis, I¡¯ve been busy locating someone," Stefan said, raising his eyebrows. "Didn¡¯t you know what I¡¯ve been up to?"


    "How could I know? You never tell me anything," Bella replied, utterly confused. "Is there something I need to know?"


    "Huh!? Looks like your husband didn¡¯t tell you," Stefan¡¯s voice trailed off as he realized the possibility of Tristan hiding this from Bella. Now, he vented his frustration inwardly, forgetting to ask Tristan about it.


    Bella became increasingly aware of Stefan¡¯s suspicious behavior.


    "Speak now, or you¡¯ll see me angry," she said casually, but Stefan knew she was furious.


    "Don¡¯t be mad, Sis. I¡¯ll tell you now. Ugh, I¡¯m busy looking for someone¡ªthis person is trying to find information about you." He explained worriedly.


    "Someone¡¯s trying to dig up my real identity?"


    "Yeah."


    "Why are you worried? Haven¡¯t you put out false information?"


    "Well, this person knows the information out there is fake. They also know where to find your real identity. Max, your husband¡¯s hacker, was the first to find out about this hacker. But at the time, Max couldn¡¯t locate the person; they hid too well," Stefan explained.


    Bella was shocked to hear that.


    Stefan continued, "If I had to guess, that person has abilities equal to or even stronger than Max."


    Bella was taken aback. She knew how skillful Max was, but the thought that this person who tried to find her identity might be more cunning than Max worried her.


    "Is that person really that cunning, Stefan?" she asked.


    "Yes, that¡¯s why your husband is worried that the person digging into your information might be someone who wants to harm you, especially since they have a powerful hacker working with them."


    Bella felt her heart sink as she began to understand what had happened. Her mind started to race, trying to guess who that person could be.

 Chapter 455: The Invisible Enemy!

    Countless names now appeared in Bella¡¯s mind.


    ¡¯Could it be my uncles?¡¯ Bella shook her head.


    Her uncles couldn¡¯t have hired a powerful hacker to check her background or to find her weaknesses. That is so unlike them. Moreover, they didn¡¯t have the funds and wit for it after she removed them from the company. Even if her uncles had any ill intentions and wanted to hurt her, they would likely hire a gangster rather than a hacker.


    Bella quickly dismissed these thoughts, confident that her actions in front of her uncles had been enough to discourage them from challenging her.


    Another name appeared, ¡¯Laura Kiels?¡¯


    As before, Bella dismissed Laura Kiels from the list. It was impossible; she would be reincarnated and trouble her again, right?


    She shook her head, smiling at her wild imagination.


    ¡¯So who? Who is the person who still has hatred toward me?¡¯ Bella tried to remember. A second later, a vicious woman appeared in her mind. ¡¯How could I forget her? This must be Jessica, right? Only her.


    She¡¯s the one who hated me the most.¡¯


    Bella slowly got goosebumps thinking about Jessica Sinclair.


    Lately, she had been so busy with family matters that she¡¯d forgotten about Jessica Sinclair, her evil mother-in-law. She sighed deeply and turned her gaze back to Stefan.


    She silently listened to every word he said about the matter they were facing.


    "A few days ago, your husband called me. He asked for my help, so I joined forces with Max to track down the hacker who was still attempting to steal information about you. However, when he realized this, I teamed up with Max... the hacker completely disappeared. He is no longer trying to bypass Max¡¯s firewall protection," Stefan explained.


    "It seems like you are no match for that person; that¡¯s why he disappeared," Bella remarked, relieved that she was safe as long as Stefan and Max were on her side.


    "Probably, yeah," Stefan said, a half-smile on his proud face. He cleared his throat before continuing, "But now, we are having trouble finding him because he no longer appears. Also, your husband is trying to find the person behind the hacker."


    "Why didn¡¯t Tristan tell me about this!?" Bella asked, confused.


    "I¡¯m not sure why your husband is keeping this from you. But, sister, I think maybe he didn¡¯t want you to worry," Stefan responded, amused at her clueless expression.


    Bella took a deep breath as her mind reeled back to what had happened around her in the last few days.


    She started noticing some changes around her, including the increasingly tight security around their house. Even on her day off, Bryan showed up at their residence, something he had never done before.


    And recently, Tristan has been trying to stay with her wherever she goes. She initially thought he was overprotective because she was pregnant, but now she understands.


    Despite that, Bella sometimes couldn¡¯t help but think Tristan was overprotective because he didn¡¯t want his enemy or people who held grudges for him to harm her.


    ¡¯Is it possible that someone like Tristan has an enemy, right?¡¯ Bella wondered.


    Bella understood that leading a massive enterprise like Sinclair Group was never easy. Many people felt disadvantaged and jealous of Tristan¡¯s success and wanted to bring him down. She knew this from her experience leading Quantum Capital in the last few months.


    She had also heard from Jack about what happened to the RDF Group; many people tried to bring them down, so Jack created their Sentinel Network to ensure they stayed on top safely.


    ¡¯It¡¯s not easy to be successful, too,¡¯ Bella thought, shaking her head and hiding her bitter smile. She didn¡¯t want Stefan to notice her worry, but it was too late; Stefan had already seen it.


    "Sister, don¡¯t worry. Even if the hacker comes back, he still won¡¯t be able to get any information about you. Three mighty forces safely seal your online database: Max, me, and the military¡¯s hackers. Thanks to your friend in the military, their hackers are helping us, too," Stefan explained after seeing Bella seem tense and worried. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella frowned as she looked at Stefan.


    "My friend in the military? Oh, you mean Sean?" She remembered asking Sean to seal her information from Tristan and her parents five years ago, worrying they would find out where she was going.


    At that time, she doesn¡¯t want to ask Stefan for help because she doesn¡¯t want Jack to know about her problems. In the end, Jack and Harper find out she is moving to Sweden, and they wait for her at the airport.


    "Yeah, General Sean Spencer. I assure you, no one could break our protection¡ªunless..." Stefan¡¯s voice trailed off as he remembered his idol, Mel, aka Queen.


    "Unless what?" Bella asked curiously.


    "Unless my sister sides with the bad person, which is impossible! She¡¯s much more powerful at hacking than anyone I know. But no way she¡¯s working for any bad guy," Stefan sighed deeply as if he was thinking something despicable and unrespectful about someone powerful. "Do you still remember my other sister who lives in Country X?"


    "Oh, a woman you said she¡¯s your only idol? How can I forget? You tell me about her repeatedly," Bella smiled, recalling Stefan told her about a lady who had taught him intricate coding skills, which are now related to his work. "What¡¯s her ID name again? Q-Queen, right!?"


    "Yeah, that woman...and she is a good friend, too." Stefan suddenly felt terrible. It has been several years since his last visit to his idol in the X country. They have not communicated since then because he was too preoccupied with the RDF Group¡¯s business. At the same time, he heard Mel was also preoccupied with enjoying her days as a mother.


    "That¡¯s good to hear, Stefan. I feel better now, knowing my online data are protected by capable people. Thank you so much for your diligent work!"


    Bella smiled, but she was still curious about who was interested in her and willing to pay a skilled hacker to dig up her information.


    "Oh, please, sister, stop saying thanks to me," he said with a smile. "Well, just for your information, your husband is now focused on finding the person behind the hacker. Since yesterday, Max told me that they were hunting for someone they suspected was secretly stalking you..."


    ____


    * Author¡¯s Note:


    Mel, or Queen, is the female lead from my first book titled "Damn, I Fall In Love With Him." Just to let you all know, Stefan / Grim Reaper, appears in my first book ^__^


    Warning: Damn! I Fall In Love With Him is my first book. When I first became a writer, my writing experience was much less than they are now; I was a total newbie then. So, if you are thinking of reading the book, I would be very grateful, but if you found a lot of newbie mistakes there, you have been warned ^___*

 Chapter 456: The Dinner Invitation That Make Her Nervous

    Bella feels alarmed when she hears about this. She knows Tristan has arranged a tailing car to protect her whenever Bryan drives her. Still, she wasn¡¯t aware that bad people were also trying to tail their vehicles.


    "Did they find that person?" Bella asked worriedly.


    Stefan shook his head, a slight look of concern flashing in his eyes.


    "Sis, I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t know. Tristan only assigned me the task of finding the hacker¡¯s location. You should ask him for more details."


    Bella didn¡¯t press Stefan further. "Hmm, thank you, Stefan. Thank you for lending your hands and mind to help them."


    "No, I¡¯m not doing much. Max could protect your information without me. Your husband just wanted to ensure your information was safe, so he asked me to join hands."


    "Yeah, whatever it is, I¡¯m still grateful." Bella smiled at him. "Alright, you eat lunch first and sleep. You look like a zombie now."


    "What? Zombie!?" Stefan tried to see his face using his cell phone camera, only to realize his battery was dead. "Oh, crap! Even my cell phone hates me."


    "Gosh! Just throw away your cell phone. There¡¯s no point in you having it if you don¡¯t reply to my texts and ignore my calls," Bella said as she stood from her seat.


    Stefan, "..."


    Bella quickly said goodbye to Stefan. Her mind was full of many things, especially concerns about the person who wanted to uncover her real identity.


    She believed that person was unrelated to her family because she had already ensured no one could try to mess with her again.


    After arriving at her office, Bella took out her cell phone and was about to call Tristan; however, Tristan¡¯s series of texts surprised her.


    [Tristan] Darling, Mr. President, invites us to dinner at his residence next week.


    [Tristan] I¡¯ll have Dylan arrange a private designer to create your gown.


    [Tristan] Don¡¯t work so hard. Love you!


    [Tristan] Call me when you see this message. (Kiss emoji)


    Bella sat silently, staring at her dark cell phone screen.


    "Mr. President?" she muttered from her chair. "Oh my God, he means Sean¡¯s father? Sean¡¯s father is inviting us to dinner?"


    Bella felt her throat dry at the thought of meeting Sean¡¯s family for the first time.


    "Will Sean and Amanda be there?" The thought of meeting them made her even more nervous. It felt like butterflies were dancing in her stomach.


    Taking a deep breath, she leaned against the back of her chair and closed her eyes, trying to push aside the image of dinner at Sean¡¯s house.


    After a while, she returned to work and made video calls with Leo, who was currently busy in Nova City. This distracted her mind as they talked about work. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ***


    A few days have passed, and today is the end of September. The air feels chilly, signaling autumn is slowly arriving in their city.


    So much has happened in Bella¡¯s life over the past week. She agreed to work from home after speaking with Tristan about her safety and pregnancy. She will only go to the office if she needs to attend a management team meeting.


    Meanwhile, her grandfather has returned to East City for the past few days. He deliberately stayed there to support his daughter, Emma, so his other sons wouldn¡¯t dare trouble her.


    Lewis Sinclair, who usually stays at Bella and Tristan¡¯s house, decided to return to his own home after learning his son, William Sinclair, has cancer. Still, they visit Dax every few days. They don¡¯t come daily because they don¡¯t want to arouse Jessica¡¯s suspicion.


    Today, Henry will be discharged from the hospital, and Bella will introduce him to her son, Dax, for the first time. She had delayed this meeting to observe Henry¡¯s attitude in the last couple of days. And she has seen Henry behave a lot better now.


    Since their last encounter at the hospital with Tristan, Bella has heard from Noora and her mother that Henry has undergone significant changes, which makes her happy. This indicates he hasn¡¯t adopted their father¡¯s rudeness and terrible attitude.


    After a week at home, Bella was surprised that no one had suspected her pregnancy. She feels grateful because Noora and her mother are rarely at home; they visit Henry at the hospital every day during the day and only return before night.


    Just like any other morning...


    Bella now enjoys sunbathing on the veranda while reading her favorite fiction book and listening to the birds singing in the forest behind the house.


    "Bella..."


    Tristan¡¯s soft voice startled Bella. She immediately turned to look at him while closing the book.


    Seeing him already neatly dressed in his slim-fit white shirt stunned her; his handsomeness left her speechless. A lovely smile graced her lips as she stood from her seat. "Oh, are you ready to go?" she asked, approaching him.


    "Hmm," Tristan took her hand and led her inside. "Are you sure I don¡¯t need to accompany you when Henry meets our son?" he was still worried because he had so much work today and couldn¡¯t be beside her.


    "Yes, your meeting at the office is more important than welcoming my older brother," Bella chuckled, reassuring him not to worry too much.


    "Alright, if you need anything, call me immediately," Tristan said thoughtfully.


    Tristan wanted to stay home to accompany her, but he couldn¡¯t postpone this morning¡¯s meeting. He had to attend, and in the afternoon, he had to fly to another city to visit several company projects. He could only return at night before dinner. That¡¯s why he felt terrible leaving her alone now.


    "Sure, I¡¯ll call you every hour, sir," Bella teased, trying to humor him. "But don¡¯t worry too much. Even though Henry will stay here, he¡¯ll be at Mom¡¯s place. He won¡¯t cause me any trouble. Besides, I heard he¡¯s changed."


    "Trust me, he hasn¡¯t changed that fast. I¡¯m still worried he¡¯ll cause you trouble."


    Bella smiled faintly at his concern. "I¡¯ve changed too, Mr. Sinclair. I¡¯m no longer the weak girl you¡¯ve married in the past. I have changed a lot, and now I¡¯m stronger than him. If he tries to harm me, I¡¯ll send him back to the hospital.


    This time, a lot worse."


    "Hahaha, you¡¯re right. If he acts up, send him back to Carlos on a stretcher. Let him take care of your older brother there." Tristan pulled Bella¡¯s waist closer to his and leaned in to kiss her lips.

 Chapter 457: Always Grateful

    After walking Tristan to the front yard and watching his car vanish from her sight, Bella returned to the house to look for her son.


    She hadn¡¯t seen him since they had breakfast.


    Just before heading to Dax¡¯s bedroom, Bella saw Geoffrey appear from the kitchen.


    "Geoffrey, have you seen Dax?" Bella asked.


    "Young master? He is in his computer room with Mr. Gael," Geoffrey answered. "Do you want me to call him, ma¡¯am?"


    Bella halted her steps before climbing the stairs. She smiles at him, "Thank you, Geoffrey, but there¡¯s no need. You can continue your work. I will check on him myself now."


    "Yes, ma¡¯am," Geoffrey nodded and headed to the living room.


    Bella opened the computer room door in silence. She didn¡¯t want to distract them, curious to know what they were doing.


    She saw them staring at the computer screen with headphones in their ears.


    ¡¯Gosh! It¡¯s only nine, and they¡¯ve already started their computer session?¡¯


    A faint smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips. She was happy for her son because today was his first-day learning advanced coding from Stefan, who happened to move here, too, when she decided to work from home.


    Stefan now used one of the guest rooms and her son¡¯s computer room as his workspace. While he helped her with work, he also taught Dax.


    As for Max, her son¡¯s former teacher, he no longer taught Dax because he was too busy assisting Tristan.


    Bella stood in the corner, waiting to greet them both. However, seeing their seriousness, she decided not to bother them.


    She left the room quietly and looked for Noora, surprised to find her busy in the dry kitchen, filling the fridge with fresh food.


    "Young miss, why are you here?" Noora paused as she noticed Bella approaching her. She glanced at the clock on the wall. It was only nine. "Are you hungry again!? I can cook something warm for you."


    Noora was suspicious because Bella had always requested snacks or fruit between her main meals in the past few days.


    "I¡¯m not hungry, but I just want to ask you something," Bella said while sitting on the chair at the kitchen island.


    "What is it?" Noora approached Bella and offered her a bowl of clean grapes and berries she had just washed.


    "Thanks," Bella said without refusing. She instantly felt the sourness in her mouth as she looked at how shiny the grapes and blueberries were. She chewed a few green grapes. Instantly, the sweetness spread in her mouth, making her unable to stop eating and forget about her question to Noora. "Ugh, these grapes are so delicious! This blueberry, too..."


    Noora frowned as a slight crease slowly appeared on her forehead. Her suspicions became apparent. However, she didn¡¯t say anything, knowing that her young Miss might be angry at her if she asked about her pregnancy.


    "What is it, Young Miss?" Noora asked again.


    Bella paused for a moment, putting the grapes into her mouth. She looked at Noora.


    "How about my mother¡¯s house? Is it ready for Henry to live there?"


    "Yes. I already cleaned the room he will use," Noora said, explaining that she had emptied the room she used to live in and had returned to the main house.


    "Thank you, Aunty, and sorry to trouble you again," Bella faintly said. "I know you used to stay there because you shared the same hobby with my mom."


    "I¡¯m not feeling troubled, Miss. And don¡¯t worry about me. Even though I stay here in the main house, I will go there to watch dramas with your mother and cook for them every day." Noora smiled.


    "You are my angel, Aunty Noora," Bella gave her aunt a thumbs up.


    Bella never stopped being grateful to Aunty Noora. She had done so much for her and her family since the day she worked for her.


    Since returning to the country, Bella didn¡¯t want Noora to be alone forever, caring only for her and her family. She hoped to see Noora start her own family as well.


    But how could that happen if Noora never left the house and was always by her side?


    More than a few times, Bella has tried encouraging Noora to visit her distant family in the countryside. She hopes Aunty Noora might meet some friends there. Still, Noora always refuses, claiming she has no friends left.


    Now, Noora¡¯s only social interaction was with the workers in their household. Bella had someone in mind for Noora, but each time she brought up the topic with her, Noora would quickly change the subject.


    "Aunty," Bella called out to Noora as she saw her fill the fridge again. "How is your relationship with Nick¡ª" Her words stopped when she noticed Noora raising her hand to stop her. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, please, not again, young Miss. Please stop asking me about him. There is nothing between us. We¡¯re family, alright!" Noora said before ignoring Bella and focusing on placing a few cakes in the fridge.


    Bella smiled while shaking her head. She had teased Noora a few times about marrying Nick because they had worked together for a long time and knew each other well.


    However, Noora always avoided the topic and stopped her. Noora always said she only saw Nick as a friend, just like her siblings; she had no romantic feelings for him.


    Bella didn¡¯t believe Noora. Instead, she never stopped praying that Noora and Nick would someday become a family.


    "Aunty Noora, stop saying that. If the goddess of love heard it, she might be offended and send a cupid between you both, and in the end, you will marry him, love him forever..." Bella giggled when she saw Noora glaring at her.


    "Young Miss¡ª"


    Noora opened her mouth, but her sentence stopped at the tip of her tongue when Bella said, "Oh...my...GOD...Aunty Noora, you are blushing. You like him, right?"


    "Miss, I¡¯m busy now. Go back to work. You¡¯re supposed to work now, right? Do you want more grapes? Or cakes?" Noora said, ignoring Bella, who was still trying to tease her.


    "Alright, I will go now..." Bella said after taking another new bowl of grapes. She headed to the new home office that Tristan was setting up for her inside the library on the first floor.

 Chapter 458: The First Time Henry Meets Dax

    After lunch, Bella didn¡¯t nap; she continued working in her office while peeking out the window to check whether her mother and Henry had arrived from the hospital. However, they only arrived at three in the afternoon.


    Bella visited them with Dax.


    Somehow, she felt tense holding her son¡¯s hand as they walked toward the Stone House.


    "Mommy, why do you look nervous? Shouldn¡¯t I be the one who is nervous, right? This is the first time I met my uncle," said Dax.


    Dax¡¯s words caused Bella to halt her steps. She smiled at him, though her smile still looked slightly stiff.


    "I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m just worried your uncle will... uhm, you know..." Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words because she didn¡¯t know how to express her concerns.


    "Mom, are you worried I will follow his lifestyle and become a bad person when I grow up?" Dax innocently asked.


    Bella silently swallowed. For the second time, she was surprised to hear his mature words.


    "How do you know your uncle is... a bad person?" Bella asked. She remembered never outright saying that. Usually, she just told him that her relationship with her family was not going well.


    "I heard from Aunty Noora. She said that Uncle Henry used to annoy you. He used to upset you with his bad behaviors. Is that true, Mom?" asked Dax, his voice slightly angry.


    Bella, "...."


    "Mom, you don¡¯t need to worry about that. I¡¯m a big and smart boy. I know what bad things I shouldn¡¯t follow and what good things I should," he said, smiling, trying to convince Bella.


    ¡¯Oh my God, why doesn¡¯t he speak like a child his age?¡¯ Bella wondered while holding back her laughter. She felt amused to see her adorable son acting like an adult.


    "Okay, baby. I know I can trust you." Bella gently ruffled his hair before they finally continued walking toward her mother¡¯s house.


    Upon arriving at the house, Bella spontaneously took Dax¡¯s hand as they entered the living room.


    ...


    Bella spotted her mother chatting with Henry in the living room. At the same time, Noora seemed occupied in the kitchen, cooking something that made Bella instantly hungry. She felt her twins awake and asked her to feed them.


    "Hi, Granny," Bella said, allowing Dax to join Natalie in the seating area. She then headed to the kitchen to see what Aunty Noora was preparing.


    "Oh, Bella and baby Dax, come over," Natalie said with a wide smile as she looked at her adorable grandson approaching her. "Come here, sit over here," she patted the seat beside her.


    "Hello, Granny," Dax politely greeted her as he sat beside her.


    After exchanging smiles with Natalie, Dax turned to the man across from him.


    It was the first time Dax had seen him, and he believed he was Henry, his mother¡¯s older brother. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax could see the surprise in the man¡¯s eyes. He said nothing, shifted his gaze to his Grandmother, and asked, "Granny, who is this man?"


    "Sorry, dear, how could I forget to introduce you..." A silly smile graced Natalie¡¯s lips as she continued. "This man is your mother¡¯s brother. His name is Henry Donovan, but you can call him Uncle Henry."


    Natalie looked at Henry, who seemed in a trance, his jaw wide open as he looked at Dax. She slightly cleared her throat and said, "Henry, please greet your nephew, Daxton Donovan Sinclair. He is almost five years old now."


    Before seeing this little boy, Henry found it hard to believe that his sister Bella had a child with Tristan Sinclair. But now, seeing Daxton, his doubts were gone. However, he was too shocked to utter a word.


    "Henry? Are you okay? Why aren¡¯t you saying anything?" Natalie asked again, confused.


    "What happened, Mom?" Bella, who now joined them in the seating area, asked. She was sitting on the single sofa while carrying a bowl of fruit salad made by Noora.


    "Bella, your brother looks like he¡¯s in trouble," Natalie said with a faint smile. "He can¡¯t talk. Should we take him back to the hospital?" she asked sarcastically.


    Bella suppressed her laughter, realizing that Noora had already influenced her mother, always playing with words.


    "He can¡¯t speak?" Bella joined in the drama, turning to look at Henry and smile when she saw his expression.


    "Yes. I asked him, but he stayed silent, just looking at my little Dax," Natalie added.


    "Mom, should I slap his head to get his brain to function again?" Bella asked with a mischievous smile.


    Before Natalie responded, Noora chimed in, "What happened?" She asked, carrying fruit salad in a large bowl and several small bowls and placing it on the table.


    "Henry, he lost his ability to speak. I guess he wants to go back to the hospital." Bella answered. "So I asked Mom if she needs me to beat him again and send him to the hospital." she winked at Noora.


    Noora joined in when she realized Bella and Natalie only wanted to tease Henry.


    "Miss, Madam, don¡¯t send him to the hospital. Let me help smack his head." Noora offered.


    "No, stop! What are you all doing?" Henry finally talked. He looked at Noora, his mother, and Bella in shock. "I¡¯m fine, alright," he said hurriedly. He didn¡¯t want to go back to the hospital. Having broken bones twice was enough for him.


    Bella and the others laughed, looking at how panicky Henry was now.


    "Granny, Mom, Aunty Noora..." Dax, confused, called out to them. His eyes blinked a few times, looking at them in turn before he continued. "You¡¯re kidding, right?"


    Bella and the others were stunned. They had forgotten that Dax was there.


    "Hahaha, young master," Noora immediately filled a small bowl with salad. Before handing it to Dax, she said, "Of course, we¡¯re just kidding. We¡¯re just trying to entertain your Uncle Henry. So, we need to make him laugh." She looks at Henry and gestures for him to laugh.


    Henry, "...."


    Dax frowned.


    "Alright, young master, try this. It¡¯s the most delicious fruit salad I¡¯ve ever made. You will like it," Noora said before turning to Natalie and Henry. She offered them a bowl, too. "Madam, Henry, hurry, eat this... or someone might finish the salad..."


    Bella stopped her hand before adding more salad to her empty bowl, feeling betrayed. She narrowed her eyes at Noora as if protesting. Gosh!

 Chapter 459: Heart To Heart Talk

    While the others were watching Korean drama and Dax was occupied with something on his iPad, Henry remained silent in his seat. He felt mixed emotions as he witnessed an unfamiliar scene unfold before his eyes.


    He had never witnessed this kind of closeness and warmth in their family before. In the past, it was either his parents fighting or him annoying his sister.


    For some unknown reason, Henry felt his heart tighten increasingly as he remembered their past, and slowly, he began to feel terrible.


    To distract his mind, he focused on the salad in his hand. However, his eyes occasionally stole glances at the little man across from him. After a while, he turned his gaze to Bella.


    His hands clenched slightly as he said, "Sister Bella, can we talk for a moment? Just the two of us?"


    Bella didn¡¯t answer him right away. She put her salad bowl on the table and nodded slowly.


    "Can you walk?" she asked while staring at the thing covering his chest and upper stomach¡ªa broken rib brace.


    "Sure," Henry said and stood up. "Although I have this protector on my chest, I can move my legs... so I can walk by myself, albeit slowly."


    "Alright, let¡¯s walk outside," Bella said. Before leaving, she asked Dax to stay with her mother and then followed Henry out.


    The sky was cloudy that afternoon, and the air felt pleasant. They walked away from the stone house towards the edge of the lake.


    After arriving at the park bench facing the lake, Bella sat on one end and asked Henry to sit down, too.


    Sitting on the other end of the park bench, Henry looked at Bella for a moment before he looked forward, following her line of sight.


    "Sis, your son looks handsome and smart," Henry said.


    "Of course... He is my son and Tristan¡¯s. He gets the best genes from us," Bella proudly answered.


    Silence again.


    Henry still tried to string the words he wanted to say to her.


    While Bella? She started to feel impatient with Henry as she waited for him to say something.


    A few minutes passed, but he still did not say anything, causing her to turn her gaze to him.


    "Do you just want to enjoy the view or want to talk?" she asked in an annoyed tone, shocking Henry.


    He hurriedly cleared his throat and said, "Bella, I sincerely want to apologize to you for what I did in the past."


    Finally, Henry spoke with a heavy and trembling voice. His eyes, which looked at the lake, felt warm, holding back tears.


    After being silent for a few more seconds to calm his heart, he continued, "I feel bad because from when we were little until now, I couldn¡¯t be the best big brother for you. I always hit you with the excuse of wanting to discipline you. Even recently, I tried to hit you. I feel ashamed of myself for never making your life peaceful. I¡ª"


    "Damn it, Henry Donovan!" Bella snapped, annoyed at his words.


    Henry was surprised to hear her anger. He turned his gaze to her and was even more shocked by her intense glare.


    "If you want to remind me of that terrible past, stop it now, or I¡¯ll send you back to the hospital," Bella said with anger and annoyance in her voice. "I mean it!"


    Henry closed his mouth tightly while nodding quickly. He didn¡¯t want to make her even angrier. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After seeing Henry, who seemed to understand her request, Bella took a deep breath. She looked forward again, trying to calm her emotions. She suppressed her thought of sending him back to the hospital with another broken bone.


    "Speak now! Or I¡¯ll go back..." she said without leaving her gaze from the calm lake ahead.


    "Sister Bella," Henry¡¯s voice trembled. "I want to apologize to you. And please trust me that my apology is sincere. I hope you can forgive me and forget what happened in the past."


    Bella turned to look at him, saying nothing but looking at him expressionlessly.


    "I promise you, I will change. I will no longer be a bad, useless person like Henry Donovan in the past," Henry continued.


    She could see the fear and honesty in his eyes and silently sighed before saying, "Henry, I forgive you!" Those were the only words that could leave her lips. It felt like she couldn¡¯t talk nicely to him yet.


    "Thank you, sister," Henry smiled at her before he looked back at the lake. He was hiding his eyes, which were holding back tears.


    "I will now focus on recovering faster so I can return to work sooner. I will prove to you that I can change. That I am a new man. This is my promise to you, sis," he added.


    Bella smiled slightly, hearing the enthusiasm in his words.


    "Brother, please don¡¯t prove it to me or others, but to yourself. Your enemy is not me or others but yourself. If you can defeat your ego, then you can succeed!"


    Henry was stunned to hear her words. He nodded and agreed, "Yes, I will do that, sis. I will do that..."


    "Good! I know it won¡¯t be easy, but if you can work with a calm heart and mind, your path to success will be smoother," Bella said sincerely while turning her gaze back to him.


    When their eyes met, she continued, "You know I have a large stake in the Donovan Group, right?"


    Henry nodded.


    "Even though I¡¯m the biggest shareholder of the Donovan Group, I won¡¯t go back there to sit as the management and lead the company."


    A thin wrinkle appeared on Henry¡¯s forehead. He wanted to ask "Why," but when he saw her speaking, he stopped to ask.


    "If you show your sincerity in learning to work with others, you will one day become a good leader. And when that time comes, I won¡¯t hesitate to let you sit at the top, leading the Donovan Group to return to glory, like when Grandpa built the company."


    Henry¡¯s eyes beamed, surprised and confused to hear her words.


    He couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sis, why don¡¯t you want to lead the Donovan Group? I heard from Grandpa that you have that ability. You are smart. And also, you are the largest shareholder in the company..."

 Chapter 460: Better Version Of Myself

    Bella stared at Henry for a few seconds before telling him about her company. She didn¡¯t go into detail about RDF Group; she just mentioned Quantum Capital, which she now leads as the CEO.


    This information shocked Henry. He was familiar with Quantum Capital due to the recent news about their branch, Stellar Entertainment, which had spread like wildfire on the internet.


    "That¡¯s why I can¡¯t be the CEO of the Donovan Group. I don¡¯t have the energy or time to take care of another company," she said, smiling as she observed his astonished expression.


    "The reason I acquired Donovan Group is because I can¡¯t bear to see the company that Grandpa built with every drop of his blood and sweat destroyed under the control of our first uncle."


    Henry couldn¡¯t disagree with his sister; she was right. The Donovan Group, under the leadership of their first uncle, was like a sinking ship.


    "But sis, Donovan Group has potential. If you don¡¯t want to take over, who will become their CEO? Aunty can¡¯t work there for too long, right?"


    Bella chuckled. "That¡¯s why I need you to become a good person, a leader, and a tough and trustworthy businessman. I will appoint you to lead the Donovan Group if you can change and become like that. But..."


    She paused to smile at him, "If you can¡¯t change for the better, it doesn¡¯t matter either. I could appoint a professional to run the company."


    "Si-Sister..."


    Henry sobbed, holding back his tears. He was too touched to hear his little sister¡¯s words.


    After all he had done to her in the past, his sister still gave him a second chance.


    He was starting to doubt. Was his sister really human? Why did she have such a kind heart? Only a goddess would have such a kind heart.


    "Little sister Bella, are you a goddess disguised as a human?" He wanted to ask that but stopped himself.


    This time, Henry couldn¡¯t hold back his tears. Despite their past, his sister could still forgive him, give him another chance, and hope for his future.


    "Thank you, little sister. I will try harder to become a better version of myself. I will not disappoint you. Mom and Grandpa, too. I promise!"


    "Excellent! I¡¯m looking forward to it..."


    Bella didn¡¯t stay for long to talk with Henry. She left and took Dax back to the main house.


    As the night approached, it was time for Tristan to return home.


    The day passed so fast, and another day came.


    ***


    The next morning.


    After Tristan left the house for his office, Bella, as usual, spent her time in her home office, having online meetings with Jack or Harper from New York or meeting with Leo or Sam, who had visited her at home.


    Today, they both came to report on company matters. Bella listened to Leo¡¯s report about Celebes Energy in Nova City.


    Thanks to Sentinel Network¡¯s help, the issue there has begun to be resolved. All the officials involved were exposed severely, and their cases were made public through the media.


    They allowed the media and A-Netz to carry out their role in holding the corrupt officials accountable. They only provided some evidence to expedite the process.


    Since Leo and Sam could handle the matter in Nova City, Bella didn¡¯t plan to visit that city soon.


    It had been two hours since they had discussed office matters and the ongoing project plan.


    "Boss, sign these files," Leo offered, extending a stack of documents to Bella.


    After signing several important letters handed over by Leo, Bella felt hungry and sleepy.


    Leo noticed her fatigue and felt sorry for her. "Boss, we are done here. You can take a rest."


    "It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m fine," Bella smiled while drinking orange juice to stay awake.


    Despite feeling tired, Bella tried to hold it in because she was glad they had come; she wanted to catch up on any office gossip.


    "Boss, you are not. I can see you are tired and need a nap. Well, a nap is better for you and your baby¡¯s health. We won¡¯t take any more of your time. Shall we, Sam?" Leo said while looking at Sam.


    Leo prepared to leave but halted when he saw Sam staring at Bella in shock.


    Bella was stunned when she heard Leo¡¯s words. She turned to Sam with a frown as if wanting to ask, "Did you tell him?" with her gaze.


    "B-Boss..." Sam swallowed. "I swear I¡¯m not telling him anything about your uhm. But Leo must¡¯ve guessed it himself. I didn¡¯t tell him word for word or directly," he said while cursing Leo in his heart. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leo inwardly cursed when he realized he had made a substantial slip-of-tongue mistake; the news about Bella¡¯s pregnancy was supposed to be a secret, and he supposedly didn¡¯t know about it yet. Now, he could only flash an awkward and innocent smile at Sam and Bella in return.


    Sam took a deep sigh, frustrated with Leo¡¯s foolishness. He has warned him not to say anything about Bella¡¯s pregnancy to anyone, especially Bella, or in front of her. But this man¡¯s blabber mouth was utterly unreliable. How shameless!


    Sam hoped that Leo would stop speaking and leave the room, but his hope was dashed when Leo exposed him to protect his innocence.


    Awkwardly, Leo laughed before saying, "Boss, this is good news, right? I don¡¯t think we should hide it. So, can we not hide it, please?"


    Bella remained silent.


    Leo¡¯s lips formed a small smile before he continued, "And, Uhm, what Sam said is true. He didn¡¯t tell me about it. It¡¯s me. I saw some striking changes in you, and when I asked him, he immediately did not deny my suspicions..."


    Bella shook her head faintly, then sent a sharp glare at Sam.


    ¡¯What the heck, Leo Smith!¡¯ Sam could only curse Leo in his mind. He ignored them and took out his cell phone, pretending to read an important message.


    However, the trending news on the internet popped up in his browser, shocking him and causing his phone to slip from his hand and fall onto the hard marble floor.


    Instantly, both pairs of eyes turned to look at Sam with a perplexed expression.

 Chapter 461: Dating News!

    For a few more seconds, no one spoke. Bella and Leo still looked at Sam, waiting for him to say something. However, after a few more seconds, he still didn¡¯t talk.


    Leo impatiently broke the silence.


    "Sam, I know money is not a problem for you. You have a lot of money to buy fancy, expensive things without even a slight consideration," he gently patted Sam¡¯s shoulder before continuing.


    "But you don¡¯t have to throw away your cell phone just to have a reason to buy a new one. You could give it to someone in need without breaking it, right?" Leo added.


    "Yes, Sam, what Leo said is true," Bella chimed in, feeling sorry to see the latest iPhone on the floor. "Such a waste, Sam. The phone is still brand new and the latest in its series..." She gives a sad glance at Sam.


    Sam was speechless when he heard their sarcastic, comforting words. He ignored them and picked up his cell phone from the floor. He felt relieved to see that it was working and the screen was flawless.


    "What happened, Sam? What news did you read that shocked you so much?" Leo asked, dropping his teasing tone.


    Sam hesitated to share what he¡¯d read on the internet, especially with Bella present, because the news was related to her husband.


    "Is it work-related, Sam?" Bella asked, concerned by Sam¡¯s uncharacteristic nervousness. "Something happened to Stellar Entertainment?" she knew their entertainment business was the source of her headache.


    "It¡¯s not about the company, Boss." Sam finally replied, looking directly at Bella. "It¡¯s about...ugh... Well...The trending internet topic is shocking¡ª" he couldn¡¯t finish his words.


    Sitting next to Sam, Leo could feel Sam¡¯s fear and worry; he suspected something serious was happening. He took out his phone to check, wanting to know what was troubling Sam.


    "What¡¯s the news?" Bella asked Leo, starting to feel anxious, too. She wanted to check but didn¡¯t have her cell phone now¡ªat her office table.


    "What the hell!" Leo cursed when he read the news. He turned to Sam, leaning close to him, and whispered urgently, "Man, contact Stefan immediately to delete the news. If Bella sees this article, it could cause a major headache for us."


    Sam was stunned. He had completely forgotten about that. He nodded and quickly typed a text message. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He typed rapidly on his phone.


    [Sam] TOP Urgent! Stefan, delete any news related to Boss Tristan before Bella sees it.


    [Sam] Do it now!!


    Bella, observing the odd behavior of Leo and Sam, furrowed her brow. She was entirely in the dark about what they were up to.


    What news had they read that caused them to ignore her? No one was answering her questions!


    "What news? Does it have something to do with me? Is Tristan¡¯s company in trouble? Damn it! Sam, Leo, can you guys tell me?" she demanded.


    Still, she received no response, but she could see the worry in their eyes as they looked at her.


    "Is the news about Tristan?" she pressed, staring at them both sharply. With no answer forthcoming, her heart started to beat faster, fearing something might have happened to her husband.


    Sam and Leo felt tense. They didn¡¯t reply to her, but they exchanged gazes, confused about whether to tell her.


    Now, they both prayed Stefan would read the text message and erase all those articles about Tristan dating a woman in the park before Bella checked her cell phone.


    "You guys!" Bella scolded them through her glare while standing from her seat to take her cell phone. However, the door swung open before she stepped, and Stefan entered the room.


    The tension in the room grew thick, especially for Sam and Leo. They tried to signal Stefan to ask him about the article, but he ignored them and only had eyes for Bella.


    Stefan walked inside and approached her, "Sis, don¡¯t worry. Everything¡¯s alright; don¡¯t be worried or mad about it."


    "What the hell are you trying to say, Stefan?" Bella asked, already confused by Sam and Leo¡¯s suspicious actions. Stefan¡¯s arrival only added to her curiosity.


    Stefan didn¡¯t answer right away but asked her to sit again. He smiled and sat beside her. After seeing her sitting with an apparent frown on her forehead, he hurriedly answered, "Nothing¡¯s wrong, sis."


    Narrowing her eyes in return, she said, "Don¡¯t try to hide something from me. Speak now, or I will be angry..." She didn¡¯t trust him.


    "Yeah, nothing¡¯s wrong, Boss," Sam said.


    "Hahaha, don¡¯t be suspicious, Bella," Leo added. "We just saw trashy gossip on the internet. No need to worry... Or, your blood pressure will spike, and your baby will be stressed if you read those articles."


    Sam, "..."


    Bella, "..."


    They both looked annoyed at Leo as if they wanted to put him in a container and send him to an empty island because he talked too much.


    Stefan¡¯s calm expression slowly changed as he looked at Bella beside him.


    "Are you pregnant, sister?" Stefan calmly asked, but his expression betrayed him. His shock surpassed what he had felt earlier when he read the online dating gossip about Tristan Sinclair.


    He saw Bella¡¯s eyes beam and a smile graced her lips. He didn¡¯t need her to say anything because he already knew the answer¡ªshe was pregnant.


    Stefan couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of warmth fill his heart with this shocking news. He expressed his happiness to her.


    "Congratulations, sister Bella. I¡¯m so happy for you. Finally, you can give little Dax a sibling," he said, holding back his happy tears.


    Bella couldn¡¯t avoid it anymore. She knew that her bump would be apparent sooner or later, and people around her would eventually learn about her pregnancy. She couldn¡¯t hide it for too long.


    "Thank you, Stefan," Bella smiled back at him, relieving Stefan and the others as Bella no longer remembered the gossip.


    However, their relief slowly faded as Bella asked, "Stefan, now tell me what gossip you saw online. Let¡¯s have tea and chat. I¡¯ve been so bored all this time. I¡¯ve been staying home too long and oblivious to the outside world."


    Leo and Sam seemed to relax a few seconds ago when Bella was distracted by her pregnancy, but tension returned suddenly.


    They looked at Stefan, curious about how he would deliver the news to Bella.

 Chapter 462: An Affair To Forget

    Stefan sighed deeply before telling her what he had seen online: gossip about Tristan dating in the park. The article also showed Tristan holding hands with a woman, but her face was blurred, and no one knew her identity.


    Bella was shocked to hear this. She tried to suppress the anger that slowly built up within her, telling herself, ¡¯Calm down, Bella! Calm down! It¡¯s just gossip. Tristan wouldn¡¯t betray you!¡¯


    Seeing Bella remain calm and silent, Stefan continued, "Sis, no worries. I already deleted the trashy gossip article about your husband. I also punished the person who uploaded the gossip. They¡¯ll suffer financially because all their internet-connected gadgets won¡¯t work." A devilish smile slowly graced Stefan¡¯s face.


    Leo and Sam¡¯s jaws dropped at Stefan¡¯s words.


    "You¡¯re the best, Stefan!" Leo raised his thumbs in approval.


    "Hahaha, that¡¯s not the end, bro. Those fools will never use any phone, laptop, or anything in the future..."


    "Huh!? What do you mean?" Leo asked, confused. Sam also frowned.


    Stefan proudly smiled before continuing, "I sent a deadly virus to them. When they activate their new gadgets using the same email or phone number, the virus will activate and render them useless. Well, they¡¯ll never have a working gadget again in their lives. Don¡¯t worry, they¡¯ll regret it¡ª"


    Bella didn¡¯t care that Stefan could delete the article or punish them with his deadly virus. What she cared about now was Tristan¡¯s affair.


    ¡¯That¡¯s not true, right? I heard wrong, right?¡¯ she tried to calm herself, drowning in her own thoughts.


    "So, my pretty sister Bella, don¡¯t be angry¡ª"


    "Stop talking, Stefan!" Bella snapped, cutting him off. Her sudden anger made his blood run cold.


    Suddenly, the room became silent and cold as the temperature seemed to drop below freezing.


    "Stefan, listen," Bella spoke in a low tone, her eyes sharply focused on him. "I don¡¯t care about your deadly virus. What I care about is how Tristan could have a woman out there. Can you explain that to me? My husband couldn¡¯t possibly do that; I know him well."


    Stefan nodded, unable to say anything. She was indeed correct.


    "Now, I want you to investigate that. Don¡¯t just erase those articles," she continued.


    "I understand," Stefan responded. "Sister, sorry. I was shocked earlier, so I deleted it without checking the source thoroughly."


    "Show me the article!" Bella demanded. She wouldn¡¯t believe it without seeing it herself.


    Bella was still trying to stay positive. It could be an old photo of Tristan before they decided to get back together. She clearly remembered Tristan being rumored to date celebrities.


    She didn¡¯t believe Tristan would betray her and wouldn¡¯t jump to conclusions without hearing his explanation.


    Stefan nervously replied, "Sister, I¡¯m sorry, but I already deleted the article." He didn¡¯t want to upset her, especially after learning she was pregnant.


    Bella took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves after hearing his excuses. She avoided eye contact with him, fearing she¡¯d lose her temper.


    After feeling slightly better, Bella looked back at Stefan and said, "Do you think I¡¯m stupid? I know you can retrieve what you¡¯ve deleted, right? Hurry up, show me."


    While Bella and Stefan were talking, Sam rechecked the news online to confirm that Stefan was right¡ªthat the particular news had disappeared from the internet.


    However, when Sam opened the browser, the news immediately appeared on his screen.


    "Why is the news still there...?" Sam asked, looking at Stefan.


    "What!?" Stefan was taken aback. He quickly checked his phone, and his eyes widened when he saw the news still there.


    Similar articles started appearing, with a clear photo of Tristan leaning in to kiss the woman. But the woman¡¯s face was still blurred.


    "Who the hell is this person..." Sam exclaimed.


    Bella felt her heart racing as she saw Sam and Stefan¡¯s expressions. She started to worry about seeing the article.


    "Stefan, didn¡¯t you delete it? Why is the article still there? Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯d punish them with your deadly virus?" Leo asked.


    "I did!" Stefan replied, baffled. This was the first time someone had found his virus¡¯s weakness so quickly. He began to suspect that whoever uploaded the article had a powerful hacker behind them. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Stefan turned to Bella, who was still looking at him with a confused and worried expression.


    "Sister, I need your computer. Can I borrow it?"


    "Sure," Bella said, looking at her desk. She stood up and followed Stefan.


    When Stefan started to focus on the computer, she picked up her cell phone.


    Bella was surprised to see many text messages in her inbox, including from Tristan and her mother, but she ignored them. She needed to see what made them all so nervous.


    Her hand trembled as she held her cell phone. She felt scared, sad, and confused but tried to stay positive.


    She immediately opened the browser, and the article title on her screen made her stomach churn.


    Without waiting any longer, she opened the article, her eyes fixed on the picture. She saw Tristan¡¯s face clearly, holding hands with a woman. Her brow furrowed while she focused on the woman¡¯s face.


    As she was about to say something, Stefan cursed and stopped her.


    "What the heck!" Stefan¡¯s eyes widened as he looked at the computer screen.


    All eyes turned to him.


    Aware of Bella and the others¡¯ gazes, Stefan stopped typing and looked at each of them.


    A wide smile graced Stefan¡¯s relieved face as he said, "Sister, don¡¯t worry, the news was uploaded by¡ª" He paused when he saw Bella walking towards the sitting area, ignoring him.


    Curiosity got the better of him when he saw how calm she was. He couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Sister, do you already know about it?"


    "Hmm, I know¡ª" Bella said.


    Stefan gasped as he stood up, followed her, and sat opposite her.


    "Did they tell you?" Stefan asked. He had noticed her checking her phone earlier.


    "What are you both talking about? Know about what?" Leo looked confused as he watched Bella and Stefan exchange words. "What about the article, Stefan?"


    "The article is still there, man!" Sam answers Leo.


    Leo turned his gaze back to Stefan. "Man, you can¡¯t even delete the article!?"

 Chapter 463: Curious About The Woman’s Identity

    Leo turned his gaze back to Stefan. "Man, you can¡¯t even delete the article!?"


    Stefan was irritated by Leo¡¯s question. He turned to scold him but hesitated when he saw Leo¡¯s sharp gaze. He had no choice but to explain.


    "Listen, the article was intentional. Max uploaded the article... You guys know who Max is, right?" He paused when he saw Leo and Sam nodding in surprise.


    Stefan continued, "That¡¯s why after I deleted it and removed those articles and spread my virus, it had no effect because Max already knew about it. He re-uploaded it immediately and even warned me to ignore the article."


    "Wah...Boss Tristan, why did he do that?"


    "Yeah, why did he allow those rumors to spread?"


    Leo and Sam said as they looked at Bella. They saw her smiling while looking at her cell phone. The trace of worry and anger that had appeared on her face earlier was no longer there¡ªshe was in a good mood.


    "Thank goodness Boss Bella is not a jealous woman. She understood that the woman holding hands with Boss Tristan was not his new woman," Sam said, relieved. He puts his cell phone into his pocket.


    However, his smile instantly vanished when he noticed Leo and Stefan glaring at him. He frowned, trying to figure out why they both asked him to stop speaking.


    ¡¯Did I say something wrong?¡¯ Sam wondered, scratching his head. He was utterly lost.


    The room fell silent once more.


    The three men returned their gaze to Bella with tension, but their unease slowly faded as they noticed Bella still looking calm and smiling, as if she didn¡¯t care about Sam¡¯s words.


    "Sister, why aren¡¯t you upset? Even though the article was fake, the woman was real. And you know, in one of the pictures, your husband is certainly almost ki..." Stefan couldn¡¯t finish his sentence, too worried about provoking her anger.


    "That woman is not fake, Stefan," Bella said, shaking her head slowly. A smile escaped her lips as she saw their confused expressions.


    She continued, "The woman in the picture was me. Remember when we visited East City to take over the Donovan Group?"


    The three men nodded, their brows furrowed.


    "Tristan and I were taking a night walk near our hotel. The picture on the internet was taken from that..." Bella explained.


    Everyone was surprised to hear that. The tension dissolved into laughter as they reread A-Netz¡¯s comments on the gossip news article.


    Bella smiled silently as she pondered her thoughts. She finally understood Tristan¡¯s reason for wanting to publicly display their affection that night. Despite the presence of many passersby near the river, he boldly kissed her, with ulterior motives for revealing their relationship.


    ¡¯So, is this your way of announcing to the world that you¡¯re no longer single, Mr. Sinclair?¡¯ Bella wondered.


    She can¡¯t wait to meet him soon and scold him for making her worry for nothing.


    Gosh!


    ...


    Before long, Leo and Sam concluded their discussion of various company matters and returned to the office to work as usual.


    Meanwhile, Stefan excused himself to the computer room as he had a few pending tasks to settle.


    Bella remained in her office, reading through some documents while having a snack. She only left her office when Noora came to call her for lunch.


    ***


    That day, the day it passed so fast.


    Bella woke up from her nap just as Tristan was about to arrive home from work. As usual, she quickly got ready and came downstairs to greet him.


    She stood near the entrance, her eyes staring at Tristan¡¯s car approaching. She was curious about gossip news and wanted to talk to him.


    Five minutes ago, she checked the internet; their gossip was still everywhere and even made headlines on television. Now, people want to know the woman¡¯s identity.


    For some reason, she felt grateful because no one could tell it was her.


    However, since the news about Tristan having a mysterious woman became a trending topic, her family, who knew about her relationship with Tristan, started to contact her and wanted to hear her clarification about this matter.


    Her cell phone didn¡¯t stop ringing. Her grandpa, aunt, and everyone who knew wanted to clarify if the woman was her. She felt tired of answering and has never replied to messages or calls from anyone since then.


    Tristan¡¯s car finally comes to a stop. Bella¡¯s smile widens as she sees him leave the car and walk quickly toward her.


    Before Bella can say anything, Tristan¡¯s hand lands on her waist and pulls her close to him. He leans closer and kisses her lips gently, making her wrap her arms around his neck and kiss him back.


    After their lips separate, he asks, "How was your day?"


    Bella smiles, seeing his face only an inch away from hers. "Terrible!" She narrows her eyes at him and shrugs. "You make my day troublesome. My cell phone was about to explode." She pouts while taking a deep sigh.


    Tristan chuckled, understanding what she meant. He stood up straight, but their bodies were still touching. He hugged her, ignoring the presence of Geoffrey and some of his bodyguards still awaiting his next instruction.


    He looked at her again lovingly, "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m ready to accept my punishment. I¡¯m willing to offer myself. You can use my body all night long¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s voice stopped as Bella¡¯s small hand pinched his stomach.


    "Hahaha, I¡¯m just kidding, dear. I promise I will not exhaust you tonight; do you remember what Aunty Kelsey said? She advised me not to be too wild in bed. So¡ª"


    Another pinch landed on Tristan¡¯s stomach.


    "Can you watch your words, Mr. Sinclair? There are many people around us..." Bella whispered, feeling her cheeks grow warm, embarrassed. She felt at a loss speaking with him. Gosh!


    A faint smile graces his face as she hears her words. He can see her shyness through her gaze. Letting her face lay in his chest and his hand still around her, he glances at Geoffrey, not far from them.


    S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 464: The Whole Family Worry

    After Tristan dismissed all his bodyguards and driver, he turned to see Geoffrey again.


    "Have you asked the chef to prepare dinner for my mother-in-law and Henry?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes, sir. I already notified the kitchen and invited Ms. Wright and Mr. Henry to join dinner," Geoffrey explained.


    "Alright, thank you," Tristan said, taking Bella¡¯s hand. "Let¡¯s go, dear. Let¡¯s talk inside..."


    Bella followed Tristan inside, glancing at him occasionally. She was still surprised to hear him invite her mother and brother to have dinner with them.


    "Tristan, are you okay inviting Henry to dine with us?" She was worried.


    "Huh? Why do you think it¡¯s not okay for me to have dinner with my brother-in-law?" Tristan asked with a curious gaze at her.


    "I was just surprised because you invited him without telling me," she said while following him, climbing the stairs, as they headed to their bedroom.


    Tristan halted before opening the door; he turned to face her. "Dear, I tried to call you, but you didn¡¯t pick up. When I asked Geoffrey to check on you, he said you were sleeping. I¡¯m sorry¡ª"


    Bella took a deep breath. She silenced her cell phone because it wouldn¡¯t stop ringing.


    "It¡¯s okay," she smiled at him and entered the room.


    "I just want to show politeness to your mother because since your brother came, I never met him when your mother was around." Tristan tries to remove his suit, "That¡¯s why today I plan to have dinner with them."


    "I¡¯m okay with us having dinner with Henry," she said while helping Tristan remove his suit.


    "Thank you, dear..." He plays with her smooth hair lovingly.


    "But I¡¯m just, you know, slightly upset why you didn¡¯t tell me about the article...?" She looked him in the eyes. Tristan¡¯s hand halted in the air.


    Tristan slowly placed his hands on her shoulder.


    "I remember in the past you said you would allow me to reveal our marriage if your matter at the Donovan Group is over. So, I released the news today. Although the news does not directly mention our marriage, I want to build the story about us before we go public," he explained.


    "Why did you do that?" she frowned, confused.


    "Because I don¡¯t want the media to find you and make your life difficult immediately."


    Bella faintly smiled, hearing his excuse while helping him unbutton his shirt. Her eyes focused on his exposed chest.


    "This is the first time I¡¯ve heard you care about the media, Mr. Sinclair," she said, shaking her head.


    Tristan¡¯s hand stopped Bella¡¯s hand at the last button. When Bella looked up to see him, he said, "Wife, I¡¯m sorry if I shocked you. I sent you a text, but you didn¡¯t read it."


    "It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m tired of explaining our relationship to our family. They thought that you were cheating on me. Even your Grandpa vows to erase your name from the family if you do that..."


    Tristan slapped his forehead slightly, chuckling, "How could I forget about them? I¡¯m sorry... I¡¯ll explain to them. Let me handle them all."


    "They didn¡¯t call you?" Bella asked.


    "I asked Max to block everyone except you and Dax."


    Bella was utterly speechless. She said nothing but continued to unbutton the last button.


    "Alright, go take your shower. I will look for Dax. I guess he¡¯s still in his computer room with Stefan." She walked to the door, but her step halted when Tristan called her.


    "Yes?" Bella turned to look at Tristan. Looking at him shirtless, only his trousers covering his body, standing in front of the bathroom, causing her to slightly swallow, wanting to go there and fit her body in his arms. He looks so freaking hot!


    "Can you accompany me to shower?" he asked lovingly.


    Bella tries to distract herself from her sultry thoughts before saying, "My dear spoiled husband, you must shower yourself. Because if I come with you now, we might only go to the dining room after our family has finished eating."


    Tristan smiles bitterly.


    "Nice try, hubby!" Bella smiles and turns, ignoring his pleading gaze, to find her son.


    ***


    When Bella entered the computer room, she found them playing games instead of studying. She chuckled and walked over to them.


    "Dax, Gael," Bella called out, standing between them with both hands blocking their view of the monitor screen.


    They were surprised and quickly took off their earphones.


    "Mom..."


    "Boss, Sister..." Stefan said. "Sister, you don¡¯t have to call me Gael; Dax already knows my identity. I told him everything about how we met in the past," Stefan explained.


    Bella was surprised. She didn¡¯t expect Stefan to be so open about his true identity with his son this early.


    "Wow! You already told him?"


    "Hmm, he is my nephew and pupil; he should know my true identity," Stefan said, scratching his head.


    Bella smiled at him and turned to her son, "Dax, please don¡¯t tell anyone about Uncle Stefan. Not even Granny or anyone else close to you."


    Dax nodded and turned off his computer. "What about Daddy?" he asked, looking at his mother.


    "He knows about him, but others don¡¯t," Bella replied.


    "Okay. I won¡¯t say anything."


    Bella reached out her hand to help him stand up. "Alright, your dad has already returned; he¡¯s showering upstairs. Go wait for him."


    Dax¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. He couldn¡¯t wait to find his father.


    Bella asked him to go upstairs first; she needed to talk to Stefan.


    After Bella saw Dax leave the room, she looked at Stefan again and said, "Stefan, my mother and big brother will dine with us...join us."


    Stefan politely refused. He had not slept in the past two days, handling numerous matters from the head office in New York and this country. He just wanted to sleep now.


    Hearing that, Bella felt sorry. She was aware of how busy Stefan was lately, especially when their head office had different times with them. When Stefan was supposed to sleep, Jack would call and ask him to work. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Stefan, the urgent matters here have been resolved. My family and company matters are also stable. I won¡¯t hold you back if you want to return to the US," Bella smiled at him as if trying to lessen his worry.


    Stefan was surprised to hear that. How could she know?


    "Sis, Jack actually asked me to return. But I felt bad leaving you even when the urgent matters were resolved. I mean, who knows what other problems may arise now," he chuckled, relieved that Bella knew his trouble.


    "Yeah, there will always be problems. That¡¯s how life is. But no need to worry about me," Bella smiled back at him before continuing, "I have Max here who could help me if I need anything urgent. And also, I have my future computer expert, my son..."


    "Hahaha, you¡¯re right. Little Dax might surpass me in the future," he said, proudly becoming Dax¡¯s teacher.


    Stefan continued, "Sis, I will spare time to teach Dax a few more days before returning to the head office. There is no need to rush."


    "Alright, get some sleep, Stefan. I need my son¡¯s teacher fully fit for tomorrow¡¯s teaching," Bella patted his shoulder and left. She followed her son to the second floor.

 Chapter 465: Dinner With Spencer Family (1)

    Next day.


    Finally, the long-awaited day had arrived. Bella and Tristan would have dinner tonight at the Golden House, the official residence of the president of this country, Jayson Spencer, and his family.


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide her nervousness. This was the first time she¡¯d officially gone out with Tristan to meet his friends or business partner.


    When she met the designer a few days ago, Bella asked her to design a dress that wouldn¡¯t reveal her body¡¯s curves because she didn¡¯t want others to know about her tiny baby bump.


    Now, Bella stared at herself in front of the mirror, dressed in a black knee-length dress with a round neck¡ªa simple, classy dress.


    As usual, Bella didn¡¯t wear makeup; she just applied colorless lip gloss to look fresh. She let her wavy black-ink hair flow down to her back. But she still felt like something was missing from her appearance.


    She moved to the jewelry table in the middle of the walk-in closet, and her eyes landed on a white gold necklace with a small, round pink diamond pendant. She decided to wear it.


    However, another dilemma arose when she stood before the massive shoe cabinet. She suddenly felt she was starting to get exhausted looking at the many amazing pairs of shoes she could choose to wear.


    ¡¯Gosh! I feel like staying home rather than going out!¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t wear sneakers to this dinner; it wouldn¡¯t be polite. But if she wore high heels, she wouldn¡¯t be able to stand for long.


    ¡¯Sigh!¡¯


    "Darling, what¡¯s wrong?" Tristan asked as he wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. He looked at the row of shoes before them and knew what was troubling her now.


    He tilted his head to see her face more clearly as he asked, "Do you not like your shoe collection? Want me to buy you other pairs? I can have them sent here tomorrow," he offered.


    Bella smiled and shook her head.


    "No, I¡¯m just confused about which pair to wear," she said.


    "I see. Wear something simple and the one you like," he suggested. "Ah, don¡¯t wear something high; you are pregnant now. Worry you will be uncomfortable."


    After a few moments of silence, Bella finally decided to wear black flats with gold accents. She put on her flats and turned to face Tristan.


    "How do I look? Is it decent? I¡¯m worried I might be too casual for this formal dinner."


    "You look beautiful, dear. Don¡¯t worry, this is a family event, not a formal dinner," Tristan explained, showing her his attire. "As you can see, I¡¯m only wearing this black slim-fit shirt and trousers. I¡¯m not wearing a suit tonight."


    Bella felt relieved.


    "Okay, we must go now, dear, or we¡¯ll make them wait. Oh, and don¡¯t forget your coat; it¡¯s getting chilly outside," Tristan said, grabbing his black coat.


    She also took her light coat, similar in color to Tristan¡¯s beige trousers, before following him out of the bedroom.


    They met Dax and the others in the living room but didn¡¯t stay long to chat with them because they didn¡¯t want to be late for their dinner.


    As they walked outside, Bella was surprised that Tristan would be driving himself.


    "Tristan, why are you driving?" Bella casually asked while putting on her seatbelt.


    Tristan quickly glanced at her. "Well, I want to drive with my pretty wife. Just the two of us, no driver or guard," he said, smiling at her before starting the engine.


    Bella slightly shook her head, doubting his answer. She knew Tristan would never leave the house alone without a guard.


    He chuckled at his wife¡¯s doubts, "I don¡¯t want to stay there too long. If they ask me to stay for a drink, I¡¯ll refuse because I¡¯m driving."


    The car slowly moved out of the yard. Bella didn¡¯t ask further; she tried to enjoy the scenery.


    After they left the gate, Bella quietly smiled when she spotted two black SUVs following their car. Her suspicions were confirmed, but she decided to set aside her curiosity about Tristan¡¯s plans.


    She refocused on the scenery outside as they sped towards the city center.


    After a few minutes, something bothered her. She glanced at Tristan, who was focused on driving, eyes on the road ahead.


    "Tristan, you said earlier that this isn¡¯t a formal dinner, but it¡¯s a Spencer family dinner, right?"


    "Yes, that¡¯s correct," Tristan replied, still focused on the road.


    "Will Sean be there?" Bella wanted to ask him, but the words remained stuck in her throat. She kept her lips sealed and tried to act casually to calm her nerves.


    Bella felt anxious because she hadn¡¯t spoken to Sean since they met at her house a few weeks ago. They hadn¡¯t exchanged greetings via phone or text message.


    The boundaries Sean had drawn between them were still firm. Now, about visiting his parents¡¯ house, Bella was nervous about meeting him again. She feared Sean would be even more hurt if he saw her coming with Tristan to meet his parents.


    As they approached the Golden House, Bella became increasingly anxious. She felt awkward and worried about running into Sean or Amanda Spencer. She could only hope they wouldn¡¯t join them that night.


    She didn¡¯t enjoy social events like this and would¡¯ve preferred staying home.


    Since she was young, her tolerance for socializing hadn¡¯t changed. She preferred staying home over meeting new people. In the past, when she was in New York, Harper would always drag her out of the apartment to socialize, meet new people, and make connections.


    "Dear, don¡¯t be nervous," Tristan¡¯s voice snapped Bella out of her thoughts. She looked at him and managed a slight smile.


    "I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just a little worried about meeting so many new people. I feel nervous about everyone knowing me."


    Bella looked away, trying to hide the worry still glimmering in her eyes from Tristan. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Later,


    About 30 meters from the gate, the car stopped briefly at a checkpoint post, and the guard in a green camouflage army uniform at the checkpoint gestured to Tristan to lower the window for inspection.

 Chapter 466: Dinner With Spencer Family (2)

    After recognizing Tristan, the guard saluted, apologized for the interruption, and waved them through the gate.


    The car moved forward, entering the Golden House grounds. Tristan drove along the empty road lined with tall cypress trees. He looked relaxed as if he knew the place well.


    Bella still felt nervous. This was her first time visiting here, even though she had seen it often on television.


    Despite her nerves, the scenery amazed her. The garden lights illuminated the area, making its beauty even more visible.


    "Do you know where we¡¯re heading?" Bella asked, glancing at Tristan. "Do you come here often?"


    "Yeah, almost every week," Tristan replied, smiling before focusing on the street. He continued, "Jayson Spencer is quite a lonely soul. He doesn¡¯t have many friends he can trust. Unfortunately, I¡¯m one of the few he does, so he always calls me to accompany him for a drink." A soft chuckle escaped his lips.


    Bella was amazed to hear that.


    "How did you become friends with him? He¡¯s twenty years older than you, right?"


    "Seventeen years. He¡¯s fifty-three now, the same age as his wife, Emily Stearn," Tristan explained. "I met him before he entered politics while actively managing Spencer Group. But now, he¡¯s no longer involved in the family business; that¡¯s handled by his little sister, Amanda Spencer."


    "I see," Bella responded. She didn¡¯t ask further questions because she knew about Amanda Spencer. Hearing Amanda¡¯s name now made her heart tighten. She felt nervous.


    Soon after, they passed through the garden leading to the main building, the Golden House. However, Tristan¡¯s car continued driving, passing the building.


    The car headed toward another building where the president lives, behind the Golden House.


    After a few minutes, the car finally stopped and parked in the yard of a two-story, white-painted building. Like the area surrounding the Golden House, the building was heavily guarded.


    "I¡¯m sorry¡ª" Tristan¡¯s voice suddenly broke the silence.


    It surprised Bella, who immediately looked at him.


    "Sorry? For what?" she asked, confused.


    "Sorry, this is the first time I¡¯ve brought you to meet my friends or business partners. I feel terrible thinking about our past¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s voice slowly faded as he remembered he wasn¡¯t supposed to talk about their dark past again, as he had promised her.


    Bella stifled a laugh when she saw his guilty expression. She lifted her hand and stroked his arm, trying to cheer him up and lighten his low mood¡ªshe could feel his sadness and self-blame.


    "Hubby, you should compensate me because you broke your promise. Again!" Bella pretended to be annoyed, narrowing her gaze at him.


    Tristan let out a deep, long sigh as he turned to Bella.


    "I know. That¡¯s why I¡¯m ready to accept my punishment, my lady," he said, leaning closer to kiss her lips.


    Bella slightly pushed him.


    "Geez, Mr. Sinclair, you ruined my lip gloss!" she protested, causing him to chuckle. "I want to accept assets as compensation, not your body, sir," she cheerfully continued.


    "No worries, dear. I will call my lawyer tomorrow and ask him to process the handover of all my assets to you, ma¡¯am!" he playfully replied.


    Bella giggled as she reapplied her lip gloss.


    But a few seconds later, she glanced at him when something crossed her mind.


    "Oh, right, hubby. I don¡¯t want to meet your lawyer. What¡¯s his name again...?" Bella tried to remember the unlikable lawyer she met five years ago.


    Tristan¡¯s face turned stiff as he said, "You mean John Turner?"


    "Hmm, yes, him. I don¡¯t like him," Bella said as she placed her lip gloss back in her small Birkin bag.


    "No worries," Tristan smiled at her. "I know how he treated you that time after I watched the CCTV footage. His conduct when he met you was disrespectful toward you and unprofessional. That was not something I expected from any lawyers representing the Sinclair family. So, I fired him right away."


    Bella turned to face him, her eyes widened in shock. She hadn¡¯t expected Tristan to watch the CCTV footage of her meeting with his lawyer, let alone follow up the meeting by firing his lawyer. She wanted to say something, but no words left her lips¡ªstill shocked to learn about John Turner¡¯s unfortunate fate even though he deserved it.


    Tristan affectionately fixed Bella¡¯s hair, trying to check her mood. He could see she was no longer nervous.


    "Dear, are you ready?" he asked.


    "Yes, I¡¯m ready," Bella replied, trying to refocus. Whether ready or not, she still had to get out of the car and meet Spencer¡¯s family.


    From the car, Bella could see someone waiting for them in front of the main door: Jayson Spencer and Emily Stearn.


    Bella tried to stay calm as she followed Tristan, approaching the main entrance a few meters ahead.


    At this moment, Bella felt her heart beating faster than usual. Still, she felt relieved because she hadn¡¯t seen Sean or Amanda Spencer there.


    Sensing her nervousness, Tristan gently squeezed her hand before he greeted Jayson Spencer warmly.


    Bella could tell how close they were by observing how Tristan embraced Jayson Spencer and greeted Emily Stearn. It seemed like Tristan was talking to a close friend, not the number one person in the country.


    She stood awkwardly, smiling at Emily Stearn, the slender woman with bob-style hair who looked graceful in her blue knee-length gown.


    Bella remembered Emily as a psychologist still active at Spencer Family Hospital. Despite being in her early fifties, Emily looked like a woman in her early forties.


    "It¡¯s nice to meet you again, Bella," Emily Stearn said as she approached, extending her hand for a handshake. "I hope you still remember me. My husband and I attended your wedding a few years ago."


    "I¡¯m glad to meet you too, ma¡¯am," Bella said, feeling her throat become dry as she spoke to Sean¡¯s mother. She smiled slightly before continuing, "Of course, I still remember you, ma¡¯am."


    "Oh, please, Bella, call me by my first name, Emily. There¡¯s no need to speak formally to me," Emily said with a smile as she patted Bella¡¯s hand before releasing it.


    "Yes, sister Emily," Bella shyly said, feeling nervous and awkward addressing her by name only. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, sister. Sounds good," Emily Stearn chuckled before glancing at Tristan and her husband.

 Chapter 467: Dinner With Spencer Family (3)

    Emily Stearn glanced at Tristan and her husband.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m so glad you finally brought your wife to meet us," Emily said, causing Tristan and Jayson Spencer to pause their conversation and look at Bella.


    Tristan¡¯s smile widened as he placed his hand on Bella¡¯s shoulder and gently pulled her close.


    "Brother Jayson, Sister Emily, I hope you still remember my wife, Arabella Donovan," Tristan proudly reintroduced her.


    "Luckily, you brought her today, or we might forget her," Jayson Spencer laughed warmly as he offered Bella a handshake.


    "I¡¯m so grateful to meet you again, Bella. My wife and I are pleased to have you join us for dinner with our family tonight," Jayson said sincerely. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Jayson¡¯s kind words, Bella felt her nervousness melt away. She immediately accepted his hand, saying, "Me too, sir. I¡¯m glad to meet you and your family."


    Even though her nervousness was slowly fading, Bella couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this man was similar to Sean. It felt like she was meeting a fifty-year-old Sean. His voice, too, seemed like she was talking to Sean now, not Jayson Spencer.


    "Bella, you can call me by my name or ¡¯brother,¡¯ just like Tristan does," Jayson insisted.


    Bella suddenly felt her blood run cold. How could she call him ¡¯brother¡¯? He is the country¡¯s president and her best friend¡¯s father.


    The strange connection overwhelmed her, and she started to feel slightly dizzy.


    Just as she was about to refuse, she saw his charming, sincere, and thoughtful expression, making her nod in agreement, unable to utter anything, realizing refusing such a kindhearted person would be impolite.


    "Jayson, Tristan," Emily said, noticing Bella¡¯s nervous expression, "It¡¯s getting chilly out here. I¡¯m afraid Bella will be cold. We¡¯d better move inside. Come, Bella, walk with me."


    "Apologies, Bella, Tristan," Jayson¡¯s smile felt terrible. "Alright, let¡¯s go inside," he agreed with his wife as the temperature dropped. He led the way, with Tristan walking beside him.


    After glancing at Tristan, Bella walked, catching up with Emily, to enter their residence.


    While walking inside toward the living room, Bella heard Emily explain the residence where she had lived for the past few years since her husband became president.


    However, in this house, she lived only with her daughter, while her eldest son lived in his own apartment.


    Bella listened to Emily¡¯s explanation without saying much. She tried to take in the place¡¯s grandeur but couldn¡¯t enjoy it as Emily started to talk about Sean.


    "Unfortunately, my son can¡¯t join us tonight, Bella. He is busy with his duties," Emily said sadly.


    Bella seemed happy to hear it¡ªat least she wouldn¡¯t feel awkward with Sean in the same room as Tristan. She still remembered the tension from their last meeting at her house and didn¡¯t want them to confront each other with Sean¡¯s family around.


    However, Bella¡¯s happiness was short-lived when Emily continued, "But don¡¯t worry. Even though Sean won¡¯t be around, his sister, Keira, and my sister-in-law, Amanda Spencer, will join us," she said excitedly.


    Bella¡¯s heart races. She worried about meeting Amanda Spencer again.


    "My niece, Rose Wilson, will also join us tonight. I will introduce you to them later," Emily whispered as they finally settled on the three-seater sofa and sat side by side.


    Bella only smiled while nodding, unsure of how to respond. Occasionally, she glanced at Tristan, sitting not far from them, engrossed in a meaningful conversation with Jayson Spencer.


    She sighed silently, wishing Tristan was seated next to her.


    At this moment, Bella was puzzled about how to start a conversation with Emily. She wasn¡¯t the kind of person who could easily socialize with someone she wasn¡¯t close to.


    "Oh, Bella," Emily said excitedly, bringing Bella back to the conversation. "I heard from my husband that you and Tristan already have a son?" she asked.


    Bella was stunned to hear that. She didn¡¯t expect Tristan to be so close to Jayson Spencer as to tell him about their son, Dax.


    "Yes. His name is Daxton; he¡¯s almost five years old now," Bella answered. There was no point in hiding Dax from her.


    Emily¡¯s eyes became gloomy as she said, "You should bring him too, Bella. I want to meet him. I¡¯ve wanted to have grandchildren for a long time, but my son, Sean, still doesn¡¯t want to get married. It makes me envious of you and Tristan¡ª"


    Bella swallowed silently. She didn¡¯t know how to respond. She could only smile at her.


    Luckily, several servers came in at that moment, providing Bella with a reason not to continue talking about Sean.


    The servers delivered warm drinks and continued talking about a few things.


    However, not long after, a few footsteps were heard from outside.


    Somehow, Bella felt tension again as she followed Emily and the others standing, looking at four people entering the living room.


    Bella noticed three young women and one man entering the room.


    Out of the four, the only one she recognized was Amanda Spencer¡ªher heart raced.


    "Finally, you guys are here, Amanda, Kei, Rose, Evan," greeted Emily. As Jason and Tristan began talking to Evan, Emily turned to Bella. "Let me introduce you to my family."


    Bella smiled and nodded as she looked at each of them.


    "This is Keira, my younger daughter," Emily introduced.


    Bella was surprised that the beautiful young girl was Sean¡¯s little sister. "Hello, I¡¯m Bella," she said, politely shaking Keira¡¯s hand.


    "And this is Rose Wilson Spencer, my husband¡¯s niece, and that man over there is her husband, Evan Collins," Emily continued.


    Once again, Bella was surprised to see Rose Wilson, whom she had seen on the internet.


    "Hello, I¡¯m Arabella Donovan. It¡¯s nice to meet you," Bella said, accepting Rose¡¯s warm hug. Meeting such influential people she had only seen online or on television felt unreal.


    "And this one¡ª" Emily paused when she saw Amanda smiling at Bella; it seemed they already knew each other. She frowned. "Amanda, you know Bella?"


    "Yes, sis, I know Bella. We have met once before," Amanda said, happily embracing Bella. "I¡¯m glad to meet you again," she whispered.


    "Me too, sister Amanda," Bella said, relieved because she could sense that Amanda didn¡¯t despise her.


    "Alright, let¡¯s sit and talk," Emily suggested, leading Bella to sit beside her.

 Chapter 468: Dinner With Spencer Family (4)

    Bella was amused to see Amanda and Emily discreetly competing to sit beside her. They ended up sitting on each of her sides, and now she sat awkwardly between them.


    She could only smile at them before looking at Rose Wilson and Keira Spencer, sitting across from her and engrossed in discussion.


    She observed Keira, trying to find similarities between her and Sean. Their faces were slightly similar, but their eyes were different. While Keira had the same eye color as Emily, Sean¡¯s matched his father¡¯s.


    Suddenly, Keira looked at her.


    Bella quickly forced an awkward smile, embarrassed to be caught red-handed observing her.


    Keira returned Bella¡¯s smile before saying, "Mom, why are you making Sister Bella uncomfortable?" These words instantly made Bella wish she could vanish from the room. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯How could this girl know?¡¯ Bella silently wondered. She hurriedly tried to adjust her expression, hiding what she really felt now¡ªshe just wanted to go home and cuddle with her son¡ªspending her night in her warm, cozy bedroom.


    "Ooo, I¡¯m so sorry, Bella, for making you uncomfortable," Emily said, feeling terrible. She smiled apologetically at her.


    "No, Sister Emily. I¡¯m fine," Bella quickly explained. She didn¡¯t want Emily to feel bad, as she could see it now flashing in her eyes.


    "Phew...I¡¯m so relieved. I¡¯m worried that you feel uncomfortable," Emily smiled. Then she looked at Amanda, who also felt terrible. "Oh, right, Amanda. You said you know Bella. Where did you both meet?" she asked curiously.


    Once more, Bella felt tense. She looked at Amanda, wanting to hear her answer.


    Inwardly, Bella prayed that Amanda wouldn¡¯t mention how they met in that awkward situation, especially how Sean gave her the Spencer Black card. It would be embarrassing if Amanda exposed her.


    A meaningful smile slowly formed on Amanda¡¯s face as she turned to Emily.


    "I met her when we were talking about work. Bella is a businesswoman. She¡¯s the CEO," Amanda paused, looking at Rose and asking, "I believe you¡¯re familiar with Bella¡¯s company, Rose..."


    Rose was surprised to hear that Bella was a businesswoman. She had thought Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife was only a housewife.


    "Oh really? Which company?" Rose asked curiously.


    "Quantum Capital. The company was established in this country about six or seven years ago, but they¡¯ve grown now," Amanda explained.


    Bella sighed silently. She felt uneasy as Rose, Keira, Jayson Spencer, and the others began paying attention to her and listening to Amanda.


    "Of course, I know," Rose responded, surprised. "Quantum Capital is not a small company. It¡¯s one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. Its progress in the last few months has caught our attention," she added, smiling politely at Bella.


    "Sister Bella, I¡¯m glad to finally meet you. If I¡¯m not mistaken, Quantum Capital recently replaced the CEO. I didn¡¯t know you were now the one sitting as CEO. I hope Wilson Group can collaborate with your company one day," Rose sincerely expressed.


    Bella was amused because she had come to dinner to get to know Tristan¡¯s friends. Still, now she had a business offer from a massive company in this country, like Wilson Group. How lucky she was.


    "Thank you so much. I¡¯m looking forward to the opportunity ahead¡ª" Bella tried to keep it low-key. She didn¡¯t want them to know that Quantum Capital was actually a subsidiary of the vast enterprise RDF Group.


    However, Bella¡¯s hopes were dashed when Evan, Rose¡¯s husband, suddenly chimed in.


    "Mrs. Sinclair, I heard a rumor that Quantum Capital is related to RDF Group, a huge company from the US. Is it true?" Evan asked curiously about such rumors.


    Evan has tried to investigate the rumors in the past, but there was no convincing evidence that Quantum Capital was a subsidiary of RDF Group or that RDF had any shares in Qauntum. However, he recently discovered that the tycoon Jack Foster, CEO of RDF Group, visited the country a few months ago and met with Tristan and Bella.


    ¡¯Oh, crap! How does he know about it? Did Tristan tell him?¡¯ Bella wondered as she quickly glanced at Tristan, but she could see that he was also surprised to hear Evan¡¯s question.


    Unable to avoid the topic, with all eyes now on her, Bella had no choice but to admit it.


    However, Bella made a note to investigate the top ten wealthy people in this country, one of them being this man, Evan Collins. He was undoubtedly not a simple man; he might have an intelligent network working for him.


    "Yes, that¡¯s right. However, I can¡¯t say this openly," Bella smiled faintly before finishing her words, "We didn¡¯t expose this for some reason, and I¡¯m sorry¡ª"


    Bella felt bad saying that because it sounded like she didn¡¯t entirely trust them.


    "Wow! Seriously, Bella?" Amanda was surprised to hear this. As a businessperson, she knew how big RDF Group was, but she didn¡¯t expect Bella¡¯s company to be that big.


    "Yes, sister Amanda. I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you earlier," Bella smiled apologetically, trying to divert their attention from her. She felt uncomfortable talking about her company at the Spencer family gathering.


    Bella glanced at Tristan as if wanting him to help her. She was grateful that Tristan seemed to see her struggle. Yet, before Tristan could say anything, Jayson Spencer clapped his hands to get everyone¡¯s attention.


    "Alright, everyone. Stop asking Bella about her company. Let¡¯s head to the dining room," Jayson said while standing. He leans closer to Tristan and whispers, "Tristan, you¡¯re such a lucky man having Bella as your wife."


    "Yes, I¡¯m so lucky..." Tristan responds with a proud smile.


    With that, Spencer¡¯s dinner finally began. They all enjoyed a relaxed dinner and warm conversation.


    Bella felt like she was having dinner with her own family. She no longer felt as tense as before. She blended in with them as if she were part of their family.


    "Bella, eat more," Emily, who sat across from her, said.


    "Yes, Bella, don¡¯t be shy," Amanda, who sat next to her, said. She pushed a few dishes toward her.


    "I¡¯m done, sister. Thank you," Bella politely refused.


    Tristan smiled at her, knowing his wife was shy. He stroked her back gently to comfort her.


    Before long, the Spencer family dinner finally ended.


    When they all returned to the living room, they were shocked to see a man sitting casually on the single sofa, smiling at them.


    "Sean? When did you come back?" Emily was surprised to see her son.

 Chapter 469: Dinner With Spencer Family (5)

    Bella stopped abruptly, staring at Sean Spencer, sitting alone on the sofa, his eyes fixed on her. She couldn¡¯t believe he had shown up at the last minute, especially when she had thought he wouldn¡¯t join them.


    ¡¯Why did he suddenly appear here!?¡¯ Bella wondered, tightening her grip on Tristan¡¯s arm.


    Sensing her unease, Tristan patted her hand and leaned in closer to whisper, "Why are you nervous about meeting him?"


    Bella snapped out of her thoughts, looked up at him, and smiled while shaking her head. "I¡¯m not nervous. I¡¯m just surprised to see him here. He already told his mother he couldn¡¯t come. It feels suspicious."


    "Don¡¯t overthink it. This is his parents¡¯ house; it¡¯s normal for him to show up," Tristan teased. "If you¡¯re worried he might cause trouble, I can promise you he won¡¯t. He promised me he would no longer have romantic feelings for you. And he is a man of his word."


    Bella was slightly surprised to hear that. Did they talk about this the last time they met? About the promise Sean has made to Tristan? She shook her head, trying to push aside her curiosity. Her eyes returned to Sean.


    "Yeah. I hope so. I¡¯m exhausted from explaining how we met or anything about our relationship over the past year," Bella faintly responded. "I just want to go home. I can¡¯t help but feel sleepy after eating so much tasty food."


    "Yeah, dear. You need some rest. Let¡¯s go home¡ª"


    "Bella," Emily¡¯s voice made Bella and Tristan turn toward her. "Come here quickly. I¡¯ll introduce you to my son." Her eyes beamed with excitement; she finally had a chance to introduce Sean to Bella.


    Tristan and Bella quickly joined the others in the seating area and sat together at the end.


    "Bella, this is my firstborn, Sean Spencer. He is now¡ª" Emily Stearn¡¯s voice trailed off as Sean interrupted.


    "Mother, you don¡¯t need to introduce me to her. I know her."


    "YOU KNOW HER?" Emily Stearn was surprised.


    Everyone else was also surprised and curious, except for Amanda Spencer, who looked relaxed as she sipped her sparkling wine and smiled at Sean.


    "Has Tristan introduced you to Bella?" Jason Spencer asked, clearly curious. He knew how secretive Tristan was about his wife. Only a few people knew he was married, let alone had children.


    Sean didn¡¯t immediately answer his mother and father. He chuckled before looking at Bella and Tristan, then said, "I knew Bella long before Brother Tristan met her¡ª"


    "How so?" Keira asked. "Did Sister Bella also serve in the military before getting married?" She was curious about Sean¡¯s having another female friend, knowing her brother well enough to understand that he didn¡¯t have female friends apart from his military co-workers.


    "Do you remember when I was in business school?" Sean asked, looking at his family. When he saw them nod, he continued, "We were in the same class for two years before she moved to the US to continue her studies¡ª"


    Everyone was surprised, including Tristan. He knew Bella had known Sean for a long time, but he didn¡¯t know the details about them being in the same class.


    "Heaven! This world is so small. You guys turned out to be college friends, and now Bella is married to Tristan," Emily said, amazed to hear this.


    However, in her happiness, she felt slightly jealous when looking at Tristan. She was jealous because Bella chose him despite knowing her son first.


    Emily looked at Bella with a sincere smile. "Bella, I¡¯m so happy to know you..."


    Bella could only smile in response to Emily¡¯s words. She now felt confused about addressing her as Aunty or Sister Emily.


    ¡¯Sigh! How on earth did this happen?¡¯ She stifled a smile.


    Later, everyone started to engage in conversation again.


    When Tristan was about to excuse themselves, Sean suddenly asked Bella to speak outside. Alone, just the two of them.


    Worried that Tristan would be unhappy, she turned to see him as if asking for permission. However, his response almost caused her to choke.


    "If he tries to seduce you, try to break his leg. I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re safe if his family gets angry..." Tristan whispered playfully. She said nothing and immediately followed Sean out of the room.


    ***


    "Wear this," Sean offered Bella her coat before they went to the backyard garden.


    They sat facing each other, with the campfire between them. Even though the night was cold, the air around them felt warm and cozy. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How are you?" Bella asked, breaking the awkwardness between them.


    "Never better!" Sean answered as he stood from his seat and headed to the outdoor minibar nearby. "Do you want white or red wine?" he asked, turning to look at Bella.


    "Wine? No, I can¡¯t¡ª" Bella immediately refused.


    "Why? Don¡¯t you like it?" Sean frowned.


    "I¡¯m pregnant, Sean. I can¡¯t drink alcohol now," Bella answered him casually, but Sean was shocked to hear that.


    He quickly turned his gaze back to the red wine in his hand and poured himself another glass full. After grabbing a water bottle for her, he returned to join her.


    "Thank you," Bella said as she accepted the water bottle. She saw him settle in his seat before asking, "What do you want to talk about?"


    He didn¡¯t answer her question but raised his wine glass to toast her. "Congratulations on your pregnancy, Bella. I¡¯m sincerely happy for you and Dax. He must be thrilled to know he¡¯ll have a sibling."


    "Thank you," Bella¡¯s eyes beamed, remembering Dax¡¯s reaction when they told him. "Yeah, he¡¯s so happy."


    Silence hung in the air again as they both got lost in their thoughts, staring at the burning embers before them.


    But not long after, Bella began to feel cold and sleepy. She tightened her coat and looked back at Sean, who was staring at her. She could see there was something he wanted to say but was having trouble expressing.


    "You seem like you want to say something. What is it?"


    "I think... I¡¯ll start to move on," Sean finally expressed what he wanted to tell her.


    His sentence surprised Bella, mixed with curiosity. "Seriously? Who¡¯s the lucky lady?"


    "Your friend¡ª" Sean¡¯s tongue stiffened as he tried to explain what had happened between Harper and him.

 Chapter 470: I Will Give Myself A Chance To Move On!

    "My friend?" Bella repeated his words, trying to remember who her friend was. As her friend list was only very short, after a quick moment, only Harper came to mind.


    ¡¯HARPER???¡¯ She screamed in her heart. ¡¯SERIOUSLY? NO WAY. IMPOSSIBLE. Wait, do I have another female friend besides Harper? Aunt Noora?¡¯


    Bella stifled a laugh when she imagined Sean having a crush on Aunt Noora.


    ¡¯Ridiculous, right? Just impossible.¡¯ She shook her head and considered Harper again as the likely candidate.


    She turned her gaze to Sean and asked, "Sean, do you like Harper?" Hearing her own question gave her goosebumps, and the thought of Sean and Harper as a couple made her shiver.


    Sean shook his head slowly, leaving Bella a little disappointed, realizing that it wasn¡¯t Harper that Sean was interested in.


    "If not Harper, then who? I don¡¯t have any other female friends¡ª" Bella¡¯s sentence stopped when she remembered their old college friends. "She is our college friend? I didn¡¯t contact them anymore after I moved to the US," she said confusedly, racking his brain.


    "She is Harper."


    "Yes! I knew it. It must be her."


    "But what am I trying to say to you? I don¡¯t...I mean, I don¡¯t like her yet, but I¡¯ll give her a chance¡ª" Sean tried to explain, but somehow, he felt it was hard to explain.


    "Wait. Wait, Sean. I¡¯m confused here." Her beautiful eyebrow arched slightly as she looked at him. "You mean you want to try to pursue her?"


    "Try to give her a chance." Sean corrected her.


    "What does that mean?" Bella was even more confused.


    Sean leaned back in his chair, gazing at the stars twinkling in the dark sky. He felt uneasy about telling Bella about the progress in his relationship with Harper.


    After a few moments, he finally spoke without averting his gaze from the sky, "Harper confessed her feelings to me before she returned to New York."


    "Wow! That bitch, how dare she¡ª" Bella hurriedly closed her mouth when she saw Sean suddenly sitting straight, looking at him with a frown. "Ugh, sorry, Sean. Hahaha...I was really shocked to hear that."


    Bella grinned at him and got a shook head response from him.


    "So, are you going to give her a chance?" Bella asked again when she saw him remaining silent.


    "Sure, I¡¯ll give it a shot," Sean chuckled as he remembered his mother¡¯s threat. Glancing at Bella, he explained, "My mother threatened to match me with her friend¡¯s daughter if I didn¡¯t bring home the woman I like within a year."


    Bella expressed her sympathy, "I remember her mentioning that earlier. She wants to have a grandchild."


    Sean sighed, "It¡¯s because she knows about your son, and she is pushing me to get married soon."


    Bella comforted him, "I¡¯m sorry you¡¯re in this situation because of me, bro."


    "Yeah! You put me in trouble," Sean shook his head and smiled before continuing his words, "Because I know Harper has feelings for me, I will try to give her and myself a chance. Can I move on from my past failed love? " he sarcastically said while looking at Bella.


    Bella chuckled, "I could only pray for your success, Sean. And I would be sincerely happy if you could date her. You know, I already consider Harper my sister, right?"


    "Hmm, I know."


    "I also already consider her parents as my second parents."


    "Thanks, Bella. Thanks..." Sean couldn¡¯t believe he had such a conversation with Bella.


    He never imagined this would happen. Even though it feels weird, he is happy to share this with her. Does this mean he had already wholly let go of his feelings for her? He didn¡¯t know the answer, but right now, he is fully aware he no longer feels hurt knowing she is with Tristan.


    They were lost in their own thoughts again.


    Sean was deeply thinking about how he would meet Harper again. He doesn¡¯t like communicating with her over the phone; he needs to meet her in person to speak to her about all the matters on his mind now.


    While Bella was busy making plans, she thought about how she would tease Harper about this and, of course, give her a good scolding for hiding this huge matter from her.


    "Geez, Harper, you¡¯re such a heartless best friend. How could you hide it from me?¡¯ She couldn¡¯t wait any longer to go home and Facetime with Harper.


    "Are you guys done talking?" Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s voice surprised them both.


    Bella turned to see him. "We are done," she accepted Tristan¡¯s hand to help her stand up from the chair.


    "Yes, we¡¯re done here," Sean responded and stood up.


    "Good," Tristan said, looking at Bella. "We have to go home now. It¡¯s almost nine, dear."


    "Why so rushed, Bro!?" Sean asked, following them to walk heading to the house.


    "She is a pregnant woman, Sean. My wife needs to sleep early," he responded to Sean without looking at him.


    Bella smiled and turned to see Sean. "Fighting, Sean. I hope to meet you both at Dax¡¯s birthday party."


    Sean widened his eyes at Bella as if he wanted to tell her not to tell anyone, especially Tristan. He believed that if Tristan knew, his parents would also know.


    But it was too late. Tristan stopped and looked at Bella with a frown.


    "Sean already has a girlfriend?" Tristan asked. He wanted to hear this important information because if Sean had a girl, he no longer worried that Sean would steal his wife.


    Bella leaned closer and whispered to Tristan, "Hubby, we will receive a wedding invitation soon. Sean likes Harp¡ª"


    "Bella, Tristan, aren¡¯t you guys going home? Hurry up and go home..." Sean immediately interrupted, signaling Bella not to expose him. But once again, it was too late; Tristan had heard the name.


    Tristan turned to Sean and asked, "Harper? Wow! Seriously, you like Harper?"


    Sean was rendered speechless.


    "Hahaha, man, congrats..." Tristan said as he patted Sean¡¯s shoulder, "I¡¯m genuinely happy for you, man."


    Sean said nothing but vented his frustration inwardly while shaking his head.


    "Hubby, please don¡¯t say this to anyone, especially his parents. This must be a secret, promise me!?"


    "I promise," Tristan said, making a V sign before heading into the house.


    Tristan and Bella didn¡¯t stay longer than needed, so they immediately excused themselves from everyone and left the Spencer residence. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 471: Astington Netizens, Go Crazy!

    A few days later, the temperature dropped as fall officially arrived in the city.


    The hot news that Tristan Sinclair has a girlfriend still dominates the entire Astington media. The identity of Tristan Sinclair¡¯s girlfriend has not yet been found.


    Some of Tristan Sinclair¡¯s die-hard fans are willing to pay detectives to find the lucky woman who tamed him, but no one has been successful.


    However, this morning, a new announcement appeared on the Sinclair Group¡¯s official website stating that Tristan Sinclair already has a wife.


    The official announcement once again made A-Netz and journalists even crazier.


    New articles are starting to appear, beating the news about celebrities promoting their latest films and politicians trying to gain votes in several regions for next year¡¯s presidential election. Their news becomes the bottom of the list, and no one reads it.


    "Tristan Sinclair, the number one bachelor in this country, is no longer single!"


    "Who is the lucky woman who conquered the heart of Tristan Sinclair?"


    "The rumors have said Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife is a celebrity."


    "Why is the announcement so sudden? Is the woman pregnant?"


    "The rich CEO Tristan Sinclair finally got married!"


    Bella smirked when she heard Aunty Noora reading the news on the internet. Several times, Bella glanced at her and found it amusing how serious she looked while reading from her iPad and giggling.


    "Aunty, stop reading those silly articles," Bella said before resuming her cheesecake and drinking milk.


    Instead of stopping, Noora continued to read and even opened the comment page. She wanted to read A-Netz¡¯s opinion, but after reading a few comments, she started cursing. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What the hell? These people are so stupid. How could they attack you?"


    "OMG! Bella...I mean...young miss," Noora shouted without looking at Bella, "You have to report them. How dare they call you slut!? These stupid people...Tsk...tsk!"


    Bella shook her head, ignoring her while taking another bite of her last cheesecake.


    "This... This one even cursed you to die...because you snatched her imaginary husband!? What the hell...let me make an account. I will fight them!" Noora said; she could feel her blood boiling.


    "Stop it, Aunty Noora!" Bella no longer spoke nicely to her. When she saw Noora finally look at her, she continued, "Aunty, you might end up in the emergency room because of your blood pressure. Don¡¯t mind them; someone will take care of them."


    Noora finally put the iPad on the table, but when her eyes fixed on the empty plate, she was taken aback. Not a single slice of cake was left. She remembered she had brought eight slices of cheesecake.


    ¡¯Did Dax come here to help her eat while I was reading the gossip news!?¡¯ Noora wondered as she saw Bella wiping her mouth with a white napkin. With her other hand, she held an empty milk glass.


    A faint line appeared on Noora¡¯s forehead as she narrowed her eyes at Bella.


    ¡¯Is it really possible that the cheesecake just vanished like that?¡¯ She almost choked on her own thoughts. ¡¯Young miss? Yes, it must be her. She¡¯s the one who ate those eight slices of cake. Wait, why is she eating so much lately?¡¯


    Noora swallowed as she started to realize something she had been trying to ignore¡ªBella¡¯s pregnancy.


    Her eyes slowly went down to Bella¡¯s belly, trying to see if there were any changes there. However, seeing her wearing an oversized sweater, she failed to notice any baby bump.


    Unable to hold it longer, Noora asks her, "Young miss..."


    "Aunty Noora," Bella interrupted before Noora could finish her words. "Can you please stop calling me that? I¡¯m no longer a Young Miss. Could you just call me Bella?"


    Once again, Bella protested. She found it strange that Noora still called her that, even though she had already asked her to stop.


    Ignoring Bella¡¯s request, Noora asked, "Miss, how many weeks is your pregnancy?"


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, seven or eight. I¡¯m¡ª" Bella¡¯s sentence suddenly stopped when she realized she had fallen into Noora¡¯s trap.


    ¡¯Darn! Why did I answer her right away?¡¯ Bella shook her head slowly while holding back laughter as she revealed her secret about her pregnancy to Noora.


    She hoped Noora hadn¡¯t heard it, but when she saw Noora¡¯s eyes were red, no, filled with tears, Bella could only smile bitterly. It looks like she can¡¯t hide any longer about her pregnancy.


    "Young Miss, how could you hide this from me?" Noora expressed her disappointment in the middle of her sobs. "Since when did you know?" she continued, wiping her tears.


    Bella shared with her aunt how she found out about her pregnancy and went to the hospital to confirm it with the obstetrician-gynecologist.


    "Oh my goodness, miss... when you went to the hospital to see Henry, did you also meet with your doctor?"


    "Yes. I¡¯m sorry, Aunty Noora if I didn¡¯t share this good news right away," Bella said softly. "I just worry about sharing it too early because I was scared something terrible happened like in the past. You know what I mean¡ª" she could not continue her words.


    "I understand, young miss. I understand..." Noora finally controlled her overflowing emotions.


    "Thank you, Aunty..."


    "But, miss, you must tell me sooner so I can provide healthy food. Huh...oh my God..." Noora covered her mouth with her palm when she realized something. "Heavens! Young Miss, I have so many clues from Master Tristan, but I¡¯m too ignorant to notice them."


    Noora can¡¯t hold her laughs when Tristan¡¯s weird task now fills her mind.


    "What do you mean?" Bella asked.


    "Master Tristan asked me to fill the refrigerator with healthy food, fruit, and milk daily! And I must change the fresh food in the fridge every morning," Noora explained.


    "Really?" Bella was taken aback. "Wow, I didn¡¯t know about it."


    "And Master Tristan also asked me to make sure to give you a snack between your main meals."


    "No wonder you often give me food. I thought you already knew about my pregnancy and pretended not to know," Bella smiled.


    "No, I didn¡¯t know at all. I was suspicious, but I didn¡¯t dare ask. I was afraid you would scold me again."


    "Well, only the three of us know."


    "You also didn¡¯t want to tell your mother about it?"


    Bella was silent for a moment before she answered, "Since you already know, I think it¡¯s okay for my mother to know, too." She couldn¡¯t hide her pregnancy forever.


    "Do you want some cake and milk again?" Noora offered.


    "No, Aunty. I¡¯m full," Bella refused. She looked at the clock hanging on the wall. "Well, I need to work now."


    While Bella and Noora were chatting, an article appeared on LegitFact.cam without their realizing it.


    [Tristan Sinclair¡¯s Wife¡¯s Identity Discovered!]

 Chapter 472: Exposed!

    At Sinclair Tower:


    "Tristan Sinclair¡¯s Wife¡¯s Identity Exposed!"


    Tristan frowned as he read the news headline, shaking his head slowly. He looked up to see Max standing before him.


    "Can¡¯t you come up with a better headline?" Tristan asked.


    "Boss, this news immediately became the number one trending topic on all news pages and social media," Max explained. "Isn¡¯t this what you wanted? To attract their attention?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t respond. Instead, he placed the iPad on the table, stood up, and walked to the glass wall behind him, gazing out at the busy street below with his hands in his trouser pockets.


    "Do you want me to delete the news, Boss?" Max asked, confused by Tristan¡¯s silence.


    Still not receiving any reaction from Tristan, Max continued, "Boss, I put a young Madam¡¯s old picture in the article, so maybe not many people will recognize her. If you¡¯re worried about it¡ª"


    "That¡¯s not what I¡¯m worried about. They¡¯ll immediately know her because you included information about her as Quantum Capital¡¯s CEO," Tristan said, turning to look at Max with a thoughtful gaze. "I just don¡¯t like the title, that¡¯s all. Anyway, you did a great job. You can go now. Make sure our plan goes smoothly."


    Max frowned, scratching his head, wondering why Tristan disliked the title. Still, he nodded, "Okay, Boss. I¡¯ll take care of it..." he said and left the room.


    Tristan looked outside again, thinking about his plan to capture the person still trying to find information about his wife. He deliberated over releasing this news to lure them out of hiding.


    ***


    At Tristan and Bella¡¯s residence:


    Bella sat behind her laptop, on a FaceTime call with her best friend Harper, who was in New York.


    "Girl! I¡¯m so happy for you. Tristan finally dared to release his marital status," Harper said after reading the news Leo had sent her.


    "Yes, thanks," Bella faintly smiled at her.


    "Are you okay with that? The media and netizens will hunt you down. They¡¯ll try to find you and do an interview..."


    Bella already knew the article would be released today. Tristan had told her to avoid the internet because he was slowly releasing information about his status as a married man.


    She wasn¡¯t surprised when Aunty Noora and Harper expressed concern. She was well-prepared.


    "I know, my husband released all the articles. But with so many about me, I decided not to go online or check social media. I¡¯m fine with that as long as they don¡¯t know my real identity," Bella replied calmly while sipping her orange juice. She didn¡¯t notice Harper¡¯s raised eyebrow upon hearing her words. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh my gosh, Girl, don¡¯t tell me... you didn¡¯t know about it?"


    "Know what?" Bella asked after placing her empty glass on the table and returning her gaze to Harper. She was surprised to see her expression. "Huh!? What happened? Why do you look so shocked!?"


    Harper couldn¡¯t help but chuckle when she realized Bella was clueless.


    "Looks like you didn¡¯t read the new articles uploaded two hours ago."


    "Huh, there are new articles?"


    "Go check the internet now," Harper said as she excused herself to bed. It was almost midnight where she was, and she needed to rest.


    Bella wasn¡¯t concerned about the articles about her; she was more curious about Harper and Sean¡¯s relationship.


    "Harper, why are you in such a rush? Please, talk to me for a few more minutes, huh!?"


    Harper yawned and looked at Bella on her laptop screen, raising her eyebrows slightly as she asked, "Can we talk about it tomorrow? I¡¯m so sleepy¡ª"


    "I believe your sleepiness will vanish once you hear what I say," Bella giggled.


    A few days ago, after returning from the Spencer family house, Sean warned her not to tell Harper anything about their conversation, so she canceled her FaceTime call.


    But today, she couldn¡¯t wait any longer to ask Harper about it and tease her.


    "If you want to talk about Jack, forget it! I hate him¡ª" Harper said with a shrug and another yawn.


    "Are you two fighting?"


    "No. But he¡¯s in a mess now. He wants to divorce his wife, and he bothers me almost every day talking about it. I might end up in the ER if he keeps talking about that... How annoying!"


    Bella was stunned to hear that. She never imagined Jack would divorce his wife; he loved her so much.


    "Wow, this is big news! And why didn¡¯t he say anything to me?"


    "I dunno!"


    "I¡¯ll call him later," Bella said, refocusing on what she wanted to ask, "Harper, I¡¯m not talking about him. I just wanted to ask you... how¡¯s your progress with Sean?"


    Harper¡¯s sleepy eyes suddenly widened, and her mouth formed an "O." She was surprised by Bella¡¯s question. How could she know about it?


    "Did Sam tell you?" Harper asked.


    Bella smirked, "So, Sam knows too? Who else knows?"


    Harper swallowed, still shocked that Bella already knew about her and Sean.


    "Damn! Does everyone know except me? Oh my gosh! You¡¯re a heartless friend, Harper Reed. I¡¯m disappointed in all of you."


    Harper suddenly froze upon hearing Bella¡¯s scolding.


    "Wait, wait, Girl. So you didn¡¯t hear about it from the three of them!?" Harper asked.


    "I didn¡¯t hear it from them. I heard it from Sean."


    "FUCK¡ª" Harper instantly covered her mouth, utterly shocked.


    Bella laughed, enjoying Harper¡¯s comical expression, her eyes widening as if her eyeballs would pop out. She didn¡¯t say anything immediately, savoring Harper¡¯s shocked reaction momentarily.


    "Be-Bella, se-seriously, you... I mean, he told you about us? I mean, about me and him!?" Harper finally managed to calm her fast-beating heart. She felt like she might end up in the emergency room for sure. This was too shocking for her.


    "Do you want to know what we talked about?" Bella asked.


    Harper nodded vigorously, "YES, PLEASE, Bella. Tell me every word he said to you. And the tone he said it."


    "Ugh, what should I do now...?" Bella pretended to be confused. "Sean forbade me to tell you anything. But since I slipped up, I¡¯ll tell you..." She paused momentarily, smiling meaningfully at her.


    "WHAT? Damn! Girl, why do you make me so curious?" Harper narrowed her eyes on Bella.


    "I just want to say... prepare your suitcase. There is a big chance you might return here before November!"


    Harper was confused by her words. "What? What do you mean by that?"


    "That¡¯s all I can say, Harper. And please, don¡¯t tell him about what we talked about. Good night, Harper Reed!"


    Bella waved at her computer screen before disconnecting the FaceTime call without waiting for Harper to say anything.

 Chapter 473: Collect His Head! *

    At Marco¡¯s Residence.


    Marco sat on the sofa, a blonde-haired woman kneeling with her head between his legs, giving him pleasure. He enjoyed the act so much that his head looked up with his eyes closed as her warm mouth and tongue sucked and licked his swollen, stiff shaft.


    "Go deeper! It¡¯s called deep throat for a reason! Suck it harder and faster, you whore!" he demanded condescendingly.


    The woman swallowed his shaft wholly and started moving back and forth rhythmically, making him groan in pleasure as he felt her wet mouth and tongue tighten around his shaft.


    However, before he could reach his peak, a noise from the door suddenly distracted him.


    The woman stopped, but with her mouth still swallowing his shaft. Marco¡¯s eyes slowly opened. "Don¡¯t you dare fucking stop, whore! Suck it again!" he ordered the woman. But his eyes sent an angry, dark gaze toward the wide-open door.


    His dimwit assistant, Billy, stood with his eyes lowered to his own feet, frightened to look at his Boss¡¯s angry eyes.


    A second later, Marco ignored him as he groaned in pleasure again as the woman quickened her movements. After a few seconds of trying to enjoy the pleasure, he failed to get the same excitement he had before the door opened. His dark and mad gaze returned to his assistant.


    "Fuuuuccckk!! Are you tired of life and asking me to kill you, Billy?"


    "So-Sorry, Ma-Master! I-I must report some huge news to you." Billy stammered, not daring to raise his head and afraid to watch his Master and the service the blonde woman gave.


    "Whatever the news is, it¡¯s better be very important, or I will kill you¡ª"


    Billy shuddered and hurriedly said, "This is about Arabella Donovan¡ª"


    "Dear, please stop," Marco put his hand on the woman¡¯s cheek and smiled. "We can continue later..." He leaned in and kissed her lips deeper while his other hand squeezed her supple breasts.


    The woman moans softly, "Y-yes, master..."


    After the woman left the room, he slowly stood up and tightened his black robe to cover his naked body.


    Instead of rushing to talk to Billy, Marco walked over to the table, lit a cigarette, and inhaled deeply while standing by the large window overlooking the back garden. After slowly blowing the smoke into the air, he turned to look at Billy.


    "Speak!"


    "We have information about her. She is Arabella Donovan, the CEO of Quantum Capital¡ª"


    "What the fuck are you trying to say, Billy?" Marco snapped, interrupting him, his eyes darkening. "We already know that. You said this was huge news. Do you want to tell me?"


    "Master, please," Billy swallowed hard, seeing his furious Master. "Allow me to finish my words, please."


    Marco didn¡¯t say anything, but the look in his eyes seemed to give permission and a warning that if Billy¡¯s words didn¡¯t satisfy him, he would kill him.


    Relieved that Marco said nothing, Billy continued, "Arabella Donovan is Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife!"


    "What the hell¡ª" Marco was shocked. "How on earth does Tristan Sinclair have a wife now? He was divorced and never got married again! Are you sure your information is credible and accurate?"


    "I knew it," Billy smiled while nodding slowly, looking at Marco. "You must not have read the news on the internet, Master."


    Marco said nothing but frowned deeper.


    "Master, this morning, the media is in chaos following the official announcement by Sinclair Group that Tristan Sinclair is married. And... a few hours ago, an article was released that exposes Tristan¡¯s wife¡¯s identity. They even uploaded Arabella Donovan¡¯s picture and her company, Quantum Capital." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Marco¡¯s frown faded as a sinister smile slowly appeared on his lips.


    "So, master, can we carry out plan B?" Billy asked.


    "Do it!" Marco said before dismissing his assistant.


    However, Billy didn¡¯t take a single step to leave the room. He stood in place, looking at Marco, confused and worried.


    "Why are you still there?" Marco¡¯s voice rose slightly before he inhaled his cigarette.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Master, but are you sure about this? This woman is Tristan Sinclair¡¯s wife." Billy tried to remind him to think carefully before making a move.


    "That¡¯s precisely why I¡¯m even more curious about her," Marco said, his eyes radiating curiosity.


    Now, Marco understood why Laura Kiels hated Arabella Donovan so much. It turned out that Arabella had stolen Tristan Sinclair from her.


    "Besides, I still have unfinished business with Tristan Sinclair," Marco continued, gazing outside again.


    "I understand, Master," Billy responded.


    "Billy, it looks like we can¡¯t avoid him any longer. It¡¯s time for us to collect his head!" Marco said as he threw his cigarette on the floor and stepped on it.


    "Master, no worries. This time, I won¡¯t make a mistake. I will carry out your order and achieve what we aimed for."


    "Good!"


    ***


    At Bella¡¯s House


    The ringing of the telephone shattered the silence, abruptly waking Bella from sleep.


    Her eyes were still heavy; she reached for her cell phone on the nightstand but paused when she noticed the dark room. Glancing outside, she realized it was already night.


    "Gosh! I slept too long."


    Her whole body felt sore and stiff. After struggling to sit up, she tied her hair in a bun before reaching for her phone.


    "Hello?"


    Bella answered without checking the caller ID.


    "Boss? Am I bothering you?" Leo¡¯s voice sounded hesitant on the other end.


    "Hmm, you just woke me up," Bella replied, turning on the nightstand lamp. She forced herself to leave the bed and walked toward the window, glancing outside.


    She felt uneasy.


    Why was it already dark, yet Tristan hadn¡¯t come home? Was he still busy? Why hadn¡¯t he called?


    Countless questions distracted her from Leo, who was still speaking on the other end, but she hadn¡¯t caught what he said.


    "That¡¯s why you must come to the office tomorrow. This meeting is unavoidable, Boss," Leo said.


    "Sorry, Leo, I didn¡¯t hear you clearly," Bella responded, sitting on the sofa near the window. "Can you repeat what you said?"


    "Are you alright?" Leo asked, puzzled by Bella¡¯s lack of focus.


    "I just woke up from a nap. I slept too long, and my mind feels sluggish!"


    "Boss, how could you sleep that long? It¡¯s almost dinner time."


    "No one woke me up except you," Bella faintly smiled. She guessed that Noora or Tristan had probably let her sleep more.


    "Alright, let¡¯s talk now. I need to go downstairs to check on my son and husband," she said.


    Leo quickly explained the company¡¯s situation and that her presence at the office was needed to meet with several branch directors.


    "I see. What time should I be there tomorrow?"


    "The meeting is set for ten in the morning. But I hope you can arrive thirty minutes earlier. I need to discuss something with you before it starts."


    Bella didn¡¯t answer immediately, recalling her plans for the next day. She had already scheduled a visit to Amanda Spencer¡¯s new family restaurant and promised to go with her son.


    "Leo, make sure the meeting won¡¯t take long," Bella explained her plans.


    "Sure, Boss! Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll ensure the meeting ends thirty minutes before twelve."


    "Okay! See you tomorrow¡ª"

 Chapter 474: How Could You Betray My Son?

    Next Day.


    After the meeting at the Quantum Capital building, Bella and Bryan rushed to Roots & Recipe Family Restaurant.


    She would meet Dax and Noora there, who were also on their way from home. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ma¡¯am, excuse me," Bryan glanced at Bella through the rearview mirror. He saw her eyes closed.


    "Yes?" She responded without opening her eyes.


    "Your husband said you need to eat your snack," Bryan said without glancing at her. He focused on the street ahead.


    Bella¡¯s eyes opened, and she sat up straight when she heard the word "snack."


    She suddenly felt hungry. And now, they were still five minutes away from the restaurant.


    "Why are you suddenly talking about snacks?"


    "There¡¯s a snack box next to you, ma¡¯am."


    Bella immediately looked beside her and was surprised to see a black box the size of a shoebox sitting there.


    When she opened it, her eyes lit up. Inside were half a dozen of her favorite peanut butter donuts, two bottles of cold milk, and a box of grape juice.


    "Wow, thank you, Bryan. Did you prepare all this?" She glanced at Bryan.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. Your husband gave me the list and asked me to get it for you," Bryan smiled as he saw her start eating the donuts.


    "Did Tristan tell you that I¡¯m pregnant, Bryan?" Bella asked after finishing two donuts and a bottle of her milk.


    "Y-Yes, ma¡¯am. The Boss has informed all your guards about your pregnancy, so every guard would act accordingly," Bryan explained. They had known about her pregnancy for a week.


    Her safety would be their top priority whenever she went out. Just like now, a few cars shadowed their vehicle.


    Today, they also carried out their plan to catch whoever was always tailing her.


    "I see," Bella responded before continuing to devour her donuts, occasionally glancing at her phone, waiting for a text from Noora.


    Bella wanted to confirm Dax and Noora¡¯s current position.


    It didn¡¯t take long; a text from Noora appeared, informing her they would arrive in 10 minutes.


    Before long, Bella finished her donut. Bryan¡¯s voice made her stop as she was about to take her last donut.


    "Ma¡¯am, we¡¯ve arrived!" Bryan said as he gradually slowed down the can to enter the main entrance.


    A few seconds later, after handing the key to the valet, he led Bella inside.


    The restaurant was bustling, but Bella had already reserved the best VIP room to enjoy her lunch with a beautiful view.


    Bella deliberately didn¡¯t inform Amanda Spencer when she would visit her restaurant. She was worried Amanda might close the restaurant just for her, and she didn¡¯t want to inconvenience her by making her rush to greet her.


    She planned to call Amanda later after she finished.


    After confirming her reservation, a waitress escorted them to the VIP room.


    The restaurant was situated around a picturesque green lake with stunning gardens. Families and children could enjoy activities like fishing, canoeing, and more. The place seemed large and offered a breathtaking view.


    After seeing the location, Bella understood why Amanda had recommended this restaurant to Dax. Most children would enjoy a place like this, but her son was different.


    Dax preferred the sea and might not be interested in the city¡¯s scenery and activities here.


    "Ma¡¯am, this is your room," the waitress stops before the room with door number 222.


    "Thank you," Bella politely responded while glancing at Bryan, who looked tense behind them.


    She focused again on the waitress, "I¡¯ll place my order after my family arrives."


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. You can call me by pressing the bell inside," the waitress explained.


    "I will, thanks."


    After the waitress left, she asked Bryan to wait for Dax and Noora at the main entrance.


    However, before Bella entered her VIP room, the door next to theirs opened.


    A middle-aged woman was surprised to see her. "Bella?"


    Bella¡¯s body stiffened when she heard a voice she knew well but wanted to forget the most: Jessica Sinclair, Tristan¡¯s mother, her mother-in-law.


    ¡¯What the hell! Why is she here?¡¯ Bella cursed internally, glancing at Jessica as she walked towards her, eyeing Bryan suspiciously.


    "Wow, I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here finally, Bella. And who¡ª" Her sentence stopped, and her eyes returned to scan Bryan from head to toe. "Oh, you slut! How dare you hook up with another man when my son already declared he is married?"


    "Be careful with your words, LADY!" Bryan¡¯s annoyed response was cut off when Bella raised her hand. He looked at Bella with a frown. "Ma¡¯am," he began to protest, but Bella stopped him again.


    She leans closer to Bryan and whispers, "Bryan, go outside, wait for Noora. Make sure she doesn¡¯t come here until I call you." She doesn¡¯t want Jessica to hear her words.


    "But, ma¡¯am," Bryan hesitated.


    Still, Bella insisted that he go. "It¡¯s an order, Bryan. Go! You know me well; I can handle her myself. Don¡¯t worry."


    Bryan nodded, but before leaving, he shot an intimidating glare at Jessica Sinclair. He didn¡¯t care that this old woman was his Boss¡¯s mother; His only concern was ensuring Bella¡¯s safety, and he knew that was the only Tristan expected from him.


    "My goodness, Bella, you are such a terrible woman. A slut! How could you betray my son? Just wait until I tell him you¡¯re having a relationship..." Jessica¡¯s voice trailed off, glaring at Bella, who walked away and entered the room, ignoring her.


    "You bitch! You have no manners!" Jessica snapped, following Bella into the room. She pointed a finger at Bella. "How dare you ignore me? I¡¯m Tristan¡¯s mother! Did you forget?"


    Bella ignored her anger and said, "The guy earlier was your son¡¯s employee. He is my bodyguard."


    Jessica¡¯s face twisted in anger. She hated how her plan to create trouble for Bella had been so easily thwarted.


    "Anyway, how dare you ignore me?" Jessica snapped, her anger continuing as she looked at Bella sitting across from her, busy searching for something in her bag.

 Chapter 475: Exposing Her Mother-In-Law

    Without being asked, Jessica pulled a chair and sat across from Bella. Her gaze was as sharp as a razor as if she wanted to wound Bella with her stare.


    "Ms. Jessica, did you forget? You told me to ignore you if we met, so why did you greet me earlier? You even entered my room uninvited! Where are your manners, ma¡¯am?" Bella calmly asked.


    Her words were enough to make Jessica¡¯s face flush red. Angry!


    Before Jessica could respond, Bella continued, "You¡¯re the one seeking trouble, yet you blame me. Seriously, what do you want from me?"


    "You slu¡ª" Jessica¡¯s voice faded. She really wanted to curse her but was afraid Bella might leave. She still needed to speak with her, so she suppressed her anger.


    Jessica held herself back, trying to calm her emotions. She took deep breaths to ease her frustration, inwardly cursing Bella countless times.


    "Bella, you know what I want from you. Please leave my son. If you leave Tristan, I promise I¡¯ll give you anything: company shares, land, a house, an apartment, even an island. Or let me help your family¡¯s company. Tell me, what do you want?"


    Jessica finally expressed her true intent.


    Bella was utterly speechless and hadn¡¯t expected this woman to still want her to leave Tristan. Did Tristan¡¯s mother not care about her own son¡¯s warning to stop bothering me? How shameless.


    Suddenly, a cold smile slowly appeared on Bella¡¯s lips as she tapped the table, an idea forming in her mind. An almost imperceptible, disgusted smile appeared on her lips.


    "Why do you hate me so much? Why do you think I¡¯m unworthy of your son or the Sinclair family? Please explain it to me so I can understand," Bella asked.


    Jessica¡¯s hands clenched tightly on her lap in response to Bella¡¯s question. She wanted to snap at Bella but stopped herself; she didn¡¯t want this girl to run away again. She tried to settle their grudge now.


    "Bella, I don¡¯t hate you. But honestly, you don¡¯t deserve to be my family¡¯s daughter-in-law because of your family status. Besides, you can¡¯t give us a child. You know we need a successor, right?"


    Jessica answered calmly, though the glint of anger in her eyes betrayed her.


    Of course, Bella knew why this woman wanted to eliminate her from the Sinclair family.


    "I know you¡¯re not being honest with me, ma¡¯am. Please explain why you hate me so much," Bella pushed, trying to expose her sinister motive.


    As if all her blood rushed to her face, Jessica¡¯s face turned red. She could no longer hold back her emotions and lost her composure. "Why do you keep asking? You bitch, don¡¯t try to make me angry," her eyes grew fiercer as she glared at Bella.


    Bella frowned, pleased to provoke Jessica¡¯s anger. This was precisely what she wanted.


    "Mam, I¡¯m genuinely clueless. I don¡¯t understand. Please enlighten me, ma¡¯am. Maybe, if I hear your honest reason, I¡¯ll consider leaving your son, Tristan Sinclair, forever." Slowly, Bella felt her blood run cold at her own words.


    Jessica¡¯s eyes slowly lit up at Bella¡¯s words. "Are you serious? Will you leave my son?"


    Bella slightly nodded in response.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the Maybach, speeding towards the Roots & Recipe Family Restaurant, Tristan tightly held his cell phone, listening to Bella¡¯s words about possibly leaving him forever.


    He knew it was just an act; his wife only tried to make his mother say something he needed to hear. Still, his heart ached, and the fear was real, making him want to arrive as quickly as possible.


    But he was still ten minutes away from them. He could only listen to their conversation through the unexpected phone call he received a few minutes ago.


    ...


    Jessica tried not to get provoked by Bella, but it wasn¡¯t easy. This girl was an eyesore, never failing to annoy her.


    "Because you know something you shouldn¡¯t, Bella," Jessica finally answered with a small, insincere smile. "That¡¯s why you can¡¯t stay in my family. You have to leave the Sinclair family... forever!"


    "I¡¯m really sorry. I don¡¯t quite understand what you mean, Mam!? And can¡¯t you just leave us alone? I love your son, and he loves me; how could you be so desperate to separate us!?"


    Bella pretended to appear gloomy, trying to lure this woman into exposing her crime. She wanted Tristan to hear for himself about his mother¡¯s evilness.


    Jessica¡¯s satisfied laugh echoed in the room as she saw Bella finally appear sad and worried; her calmness was entirely gone.


    "Oh, my dear Bella, I actually liked you when you first joined my family; however, you¡¯re too smart. You make me worry. I can¡¯t trust you, so I can¡¯t let you stay in my family." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Damn it, Jessica Sinclair! Spill it now!" Bella wanted to say that, but she held back.


    She needs Tristan to hear their conversation. It would be a waste if Jessica didn¡¯t speak, as she had already called Tristan when she first sat in this room. However, she sensed Jessica was being careful about what she said.


    Bella was running out of time. Now, she worried that Dax would insist on coming inside. She couldn¡¯t waste too much time talking to this evil woman.


    "Ma¡¯am, I still don¡¯t understand why you despise me so much. If you tell me now, I promise I¡¯ll leave..." Once again, Bella felt uneasy hearing her own words. She could imagine Tristan must be furious now.


    "If you want a grandchild, I promise I¡¯ll give you one, maybe three," Bella used all her acting skills to make this woman speak. "I promise you, please let me stay in your family, huh!? Or tell me your true reason for wanting me to leave Tristan..."


    Jessica¡¯s face darkened as she coldly said, "You want to know my reason?"


    Bella nods.


    "Fine. Because I know you are the only person who knows I was responsible for my mother-in-law¡¯s death. So, Bella, I can not and will not allow you to be around my family, let alone live under the same roof as my son. If you insist, I¡¯ll force myself to drag you out or even end you!"

 Chapter 476: Crazy Woman Tries To Kill Dax

    Bella¡¯s smile slowly spread across her lips, satisfied with Jessica¡¯s response.


    She ignored Jessica¡¯s attempt to intimidate her with a piercing gaze.


    Instead, Bella calmly pulled out her cell phone. She placed it on the table before turning her attention back to Jessica Sinclair.


    "Hubby, did you hear that?" Bella asked lovingly, shocking Jessica as she noticed the cell phone on the table was actually connected to her son.


    ¡¯This bitch called Tristan? How dare she!¡¯ Jessica wanted to scold Bella, but she didn¡¯t buy her words. ¡¯This woman, she¡¯s bluffing, right? She just wants to piss me off, right?¡¯ she wonders.


    Before Jessica could scold Bella, her words got stuck in her throat when she heard Tristan¡¯s voice through the speaker.


    "Hmm, I heard everything. Thanks, my dear wife. Thank you for letting me know. See you soon¡ª"


    "Beep!"


    The call ended.


    Bella could no longer contain her happiness. Her plan to expose her evil mother-in-law had succeeded.


    "Congratulations, madam, Mrs. Sinclair. You¡¯ve confessed to your son what you tried to hide¡ªyour evil secret!"


    Bella paused her words to smile at her, noticing how furious she was.


    "You can¡¯t blame me, ma¡¯am. I didn¡¯t say anything to him; you¡¯re the one who said it loudly, and my husband heard everything..." She chuckled, adding the fire.


    Later,


    Bella stood up from her chair, deciding to cancel her lunch. She no longer had a reason to stay in that restaurant when Jessica Sinclair was around.


    Jessica looked shocked. Even her hot red lipstick couldn¡¯t conceal her pale face.


    "ARABELLA DONOVAN!" Jessica roared in anger. "I will kill you. I promise I will kill you...bitch!" She stood up, rushing after Bella as she left the VIP room.


    Bella ignored her and walked down the corridor, but she stopped abruptly just before exiting the room when she saw Dax at the end of the corridor. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mommy, there you are..." Dax shouted, his innocent face lit up with a big smile as he hurried toward her, unaware of her pale expression.


    ¡¯Darn it, Bryan! Why did you let Dax come in here?¡¯ Bella wanted to scold Bryan, but it was too late. She knew Jessica Sinclair had already seen Dax and heard his words.


    Jessica¡¯s expression mirrored Bella¡¯s shock. She was stunned when she heard the handsome young boy call Bella "Mommy."


    Her knees weakened as she realized the boy resembled Tristan as a child. She lost her balance and fell to the floor in shock.


    "Oh, my goodness! Bella, you..." Her voice trembled. "You have a son with Tristan? Why didn¡¯t you tell me? Why hide it from me?"


    Jessica had long suspected this possibility¡ªthat Tristan returned to Bella because they had a child. But the investigator she hired never found any evidence.


    She had asked Tristan about it a few times. Still, he never admitted anything, simply ignoring her whenever she brought it up. Now, she understood why Tristan insisted on returning to Bella after they separated.


    What shocked Jessica even more was her realization that her father-in-law and husband already knew about the boy¡¯s existence.


    Her father-in-law, Lewis Sinclair, had never once pressured Tristan to remarry or reminded him about the family¡¯s succession, and her husband had also not mentioned it recently.


    ¡¯God, am I the only one in the family who¡¯s blind to this? How could they treat me like an outsider?¡¯


    Jessica¡¯s heart ached. Her hand trembled as she tried to stand and approach Bella and her son.


    "Bella, wait. Explained to me who the child¡ª"


    Bella ignores Jessica. She walked quickly to Dax; she needed to get him away from this place before Jessica did something reckless that could traumatize her son. She knew how far Jessica would go to get what she wanted.


    Hurriedly, Bella raised her hand to signal Dax to stop and not approach her. She also saw Noora running behind Dax with Bryan following, his expression tense.


    Returning her gaze to Dax, Bella noticed her son¡¯s confused eyes. She smiled at him, trying to ease his confusion.


    Just a few steps away from Dax, a hand suddenly grabbed him from another VIP room and dragged him inside.


    Everything happened so fast. Shock gripped Bella¡¯s heart as she sprinted after Dax into the room.


    Bella¡¯s heartbeat seemed to stop when she saw a woman with pixie-cut brown hair, wearing a black mask, holding her son like a hostage. The woman¡¯s other hand was holding a small, sharp dagger, pressing it near Dax¡¯s neck.


    "Move a single step, and my dagger will slit your son¡¯s artery!" the masked woman said coldly.


    Bella¡¯s steps abruptly stopped. She didn¡¯t want to risk her son¡¯s safety. Standing in her place, with her heartbeat race, she felt her blood run cold as she stared at the woman threatening Dax¡¯s life.


    Bryan and Noora stood behind Bella, utterly shocked.


    "Ma¡¯am, let me handle this!" Bryan whispered, trying to move forward, but Bella stopped him.


    "No¡ª" Bella whispered, her voice barely audible, only loud enough for Bryan to hear. "I need you to call Tristan and tell him what happened, including that his mother saw Dax."


    Bryan gritted his teeth, reluctant to leave her alone in this situation. He wanted to help Dax, but he understood Bella¡¯s concerns. If they made a wrong move, the woman might really harm Dax. He had no choice but to follow her instructions and call Tristan.


    Standing behind Bella, Noora started to whimper, tears streaming down her face. Seeing Dax in the woman¡¯s grip, her knees felt weak. She held onto the door frame beside her to keep from collapsing, praying for God to help her young master.


    Jessica also stood near the door, terrified. She covered her mouth with her trembling hand as she watched her grandson become a hostage. Her anger toward Bella and her family faded, replaced by fear.


    A few servers and guests had become aware of what was happening. They tried to peek into the room, but Bryan and a few of his colleagues arrived to guard the area and prevent anyone from approaching or peeking at the room.

 Chapter 477: Bella Injured

    The tension in the room increased as Bella moved forward. The woman tightened her grip on Dax, making him wince slightly in pain.


    Bella halted, her hand clenched tightly as she quickly tried to think of a way to handle this crazy woman without putting her son in further danger.


    ¡¯Damn it! Who is this woman?¡¯ Bella vents her frustration in her heart. She couldn¡¯t prolong this. She had to act swiftly to end the situation and free her son without injury.


    "Miss, I don¡¯t know who you are or why you¡¯ve taken my son," Bella said calmly, though her shaky voice betrayed her nerves. "If you want money or anything, just tell me. I¡¯ll give you whatever you ask for, miss. Please, I beg you, release my son..."


    Bella had never imagined this would happen to her, and she was terrified right now, but she tried to stay calm.


    "I don¡¯t want anything from you," the woman responded.


    Bella noticed the tremor in her voice. This was a good sign. The woman was afraid, even terrified, and that is good. It means she was an ordinary person, not someone with a psychotic and violent criminal background.


    She saw her chance to rescue her son but patiently waited for the right moment to act.


    However,


    Before Bella could respond, the woman declared, "But I want your son¡¯s life!"


    Instantly, Bella felt her heart sink, almost stopping at the woman¡¯s words.


    ¡¯She didn¡¯t want money; she wanted my son¡¯s life? Who the hell is she?¡¯


    Bella tried to recall, but as she stared at the woman, she couldn¡¯t remember ever meeting her.


    "Miss, if you have a grudge against me, settle it with me. Talk to me, huh? You can do whatever you want to me; I won¡¯t stop you. But please, I beg you, release my son. He¡¯s innocent..." Bella pleaded, trying to distract the woman. She also signaled Dax to stay calm.


    Bella saw her son attempt to smile, though it didn¡¯t reach his eyes; at least he understood what she was trying to convey with her hand sign.


    "You ruined my life, my happiness. And...my unborn child died because I was too stressed by the mess you caused!" the woman raged, her eyes fierce as she glared at Bella.


    Hearing the woman¡¯s words, Bella was taken aback. She was utterly puzzled.


    She had no memories of ever meeting this woman, yet now this woman claimed she ruined her life¡ªkilled her unborn child?


    And this woman also wanted to take her son¡¯s life?


    ¡¯Is this woman drunk? Or has she mistaken me for someone else?¡¯


    "I¡¯m sorry, miss. But you might have mistaken me for someone else. I¡¯ve never met you," Bella said apologetically, slowly moving forward whenever the woman was distracted.


    Bella saw the woman growing more anxious as she glanced at the people near the door, especially Bryan and Tristan¡¯s man, who were now ready to act.


    "Please tell me how I ruined your life if we¡¯ve never met," Bella asked again, silently taking another step, closing the distance between them.


    "We¡¯ve never met, but I¡¯m not mistaken. You¡¯re Arabella Donovan, the CEO of Quantum Capital!" the woman roared,


    Bella was shocked. This girl knew her name.


    The woman¡¯s anger flared as she looked at Bella, her hatred intensifying. She removed her mask and revealed her face, saying, "I¡¯m Kelly. You may not know me, but my life and career were ruined when you took over Quantum Capital and fired Andreas Corby. Andreas was my boss and lover, and my life has been a nightmare since... ARGH!!"


    Kelly screamed as Dax suddenly kicked her splint with his right foot¡¯s heel very hard. He quickly squatted and rolled away from her. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Damn it! I¡¯ll kill you¡ª" Kelly shouted, lunging after the boy, stabbing her dagger with speed and force. But instead of striking the boy, the dagger pierced Bella¡¯s palm, stopping Kelly¡¯s hand in mid-air.


    Kelly froze, surprised by how swiftly Bella jumped between her and the little boy. And now, she¡¯s staring in horror at Bella¡¯s fierce eyes. The fire in Bella¡¯s gaze made Kelly feel she was facing not Bella but a Demoness.


    "You¡¯re courting death, Kelly!" Bella said coldly, enduring the excruciating pain in her palm. She smiled icily as she pulled out the dagger, now embedded halfway in her palm, and forcefully kicked Kelly¡¯s knee, causing her to fall hard, her knee slamming into the floor.


    A howl of pain escaped Kelly¡¯s lips as she felt her knees shatter.


    Bella smiled coldly as she watched Kelly cry. After discarding the sharp dagger in the corner, she looked at Kelly again. Kelly¡¯s eyes were filled with terror as she looked at her.


    "Young madam..." Bryan called out, wanting to enter and help, but he stopped when Bella signaled him to stay back.


    "Bryan, take Dax out," Bella instructed without looking back, her eyes fixed sharply on Kelly.


    Bella had never met this woman before but had heard she worked for Andreas Corby. Now, she understood why this woman had come after her.


    However, Kelly made a big mistake by involving Dax in her revenge.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am!" Bryan responded, picking Dax up off the floor and holding him in his arms.


    "Mommy, you¡¯re bleeding," Dax cried, his voice trembling. He was scared, seeing the fresh blood flowing from his mother¡¯s hand.


    "Go with Uncle Bryan, Dax. Mommy will be with you soon," Bella said, not turning to look at Dax. She didn¡¯t want him to see her angry expression. She didn¡¯t want her son to witness how she punished this crazed woman.


    "Young master, let¡¯s go," Bryan said, walking out. He wasn¡¯t afraid to leave Bella alone in the room; he knew she could handle the woman.


    But Bryan¡¯s only worry is Bella¡¯s injury. If Tristan saw his wife hurt, he¡¯d be furious.


    Bella faintly heard everything behind her. She knew a few guards were now standing near the door, ready to help her, but for now, she ignored them. She needed to punish Kelly.


    Her eyes remained fixed on Kelly, who was sobbing loudly on the floor.


    Bella grabbed Kelly¡¯s hair with her uninjured hand, forcing Kelly¡¯s head to look up at her.

 Chapter 478: Mommy, I’m Scared

    Bella leans closer to Kelly; she stops when it is close enough to send a chill all over this girl¡¯s veins.


    "If you have a problem, come to me. Don¡¯t you ever try to harm my son! And because you already did that, I will gladly send you to jail," Bella coldly said.


    After expressing her anger, Bella tightened her grip with her healthy hand and threw the woman¡¯s weak body to the floor until her face pounded the hard floor. And Bella did that again several times.


    The howling pain echoed in the room as Kelly started to cry again.


    "Please stop, ma¡¯am. Stop. I know I¡¯m wrong. Please forgive me. Please," Kelly said between her tears and fears, keeping her body flat on her stomach.


    Ignoring Kelly¡¯s howl of pain and pleas, Bella stepped on her hand until the bone-cracking sound could be heard, followed by Kelly¡¯s scream of pain.


    After crushing Kelly¡¯s finger¡¯s bones, Bella felt relieved but not entirely happy. The situation might not have ended as it did if Dax had not understood her instructions.


    She felt grateful and fortunate because Dax had understood her instructions and done as she asked: he kicked the woman, rolled away, and moved aside.


    If Tristan hadn¡¯t suggested that she and their son take sign language classes and learn lip-reading, she wouldn¡¯t have known what would happen today.


    "I know I¡¯m wrong, but you¡¯re also wrong!" the woman shouted in pain as Bella kicked her again.


    "I don¡¯t know what happened to you and Andreas Corby, but you made a huge mistake; you have woken up the rage in me. And for that, I won¡¯t allow you to escape your heavy punishment. You will stay in prison for a very long time¡ª" Bella couldn¡¯t finish her words as she felt a hand gently touching her shoulder.


    She glanced over her shoulder and saw Tristan standing right behind her. Her dark expression and anger slowly faded. She tried to say something to him, but Tristan pulled her into his arms.


    A few men rushed inside, took over the situation, captured Kelly, and brought her out.


    Bella no longer cared about what was happening around her because she felt like all her courage when facing Kelly had disappeared.


    After experiencing such a scary situation, Bella could feel her body trembling and her knees weak. She buried herself in Tristan¡¯s embrace and silently cried before looking up to meet his gaze.


    "Where is our son? Is he alright?" Bella asked.


    "He¡¯s alright. He¡¯s in the car with Noora," Tristan lovingly answered while wiping away the tears still rolling down her pale cheeks. "I¡¯m sorry I came so late¡ª" his voice slowly faded when he noticed her bleeding palm.


    Tristan¡¯s face darkened; he immediately let go of her before pulling out a handkerchief from his suit and wrapping her bleeding palms.


    Bella¡¯s tears continued to fall as she watched Tristan wrap her hand; only now did she realize how much her palm had hurt. The fresh blood still flowing caused the white handkerchief to become reddened.


    Before Bella could say something, Tristan grabbed her and carried her out of the room. She could only lean her head on his shoulder while hiding her face from the people looking at them as they walked through the restaurant hall.


    When they arrived at the front yard, Bella was surprised to see an ambulance parked there with Carlos Montana waiting.


    "How did you manage to call an ambulance so quickly?" she asked Tristan as he helped her enter the ambulance. Carlos sat opposite her, beginning to check her wound to stop the bleeding.


    "We have facilities near this place, and I happened to be there," Carlos answered while cleaning her wound. "When Tristan called me, I was able to get here more quickly."


    "I see," Bella said before clenching her teeth as Carlos put cleaning fluid on her palm and wrapped it in bandages.


    The pain she felt was unbearable, but she tried not to make a sound, worried that Tristan, who was standing outside the ambulance, would get even more anxious.


    After managing her pain, she looked at Tristan. She could see his expression was as gloomy as he saw her wounded hand.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m fine. This doesn¡¯t hurt at all," Bella said, smiling at him, trying to convince Tristan.


    However,


    Carlos¡¯s words darkened Tristan¡¯s face even more. His deadpan expression slowly faded, giving way to anger.


    "Bella, you need to get stitches. Your wound is deep and serious. I believe this will leave scars. Luckily, your varicose veins weren¡¯t injured, or you will lose a lot of blood..." Carlos said, slowly raising his head to look at Bella with concern.


    "How can you block a dagger with your bare hands?" Carlos innocently asked, unaware that Tristan, standing outside the ambulance, was about to become furious. His expression grew dark to imagine what had happened inside the restaurant earlier.


    "Carlos, go to the hospital now. And I don¡¯t care how, but make sure no scar is left on my wife¡¯s injury," Tristan calmly instructed. "You can call the best doctor who can do that. Spare no expense!"


    "I will try to find the best surgeon. No worries, man," Carlos said with a smile at Tristan.


    Tristan nodded and turned to Bella. "Dear, I will follow the ambulance with Dax."


    "No, I want Dax here.. Please bring him here. I want to meet my son now," Bella begged.


    Bella was worried that her son would be traumatized because he had witnessed the attack on her. She needed to meet him and ensure he was not as frightened as before.


    Tristan looked reluctant, but seeing Bella¡¯s eyes looking red as she held back tears, he couldn¡¯t refuse her. He nodded and left.


    A few minutes later, Tristan returned with Dax in his arms.


    "Mommy!" Dax¡¯s voice shook when he saw Bella sitting inside the ambulance. He hurriedly climbed into the ambulance, sat on his mother¡¯s lap, and nestled into her embrace.


    "Mommy, I¡¯m scared..." Dax said while crying. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a long time, this was the first time Bella saw her son crying again. It was enough to make her heart ache. She couldn¡¯t hold herself back from crying, too. Her tears slowly fell as she embraced her son.

 Chapter 479: Heart To Heart Talk

    Carlos finished wrapping Bella¡¯s palm before sitting near the driver, allowing Tristan to look after his family.


    After Tristan instructed a few of his men to handle the situation at the restaurant, he joined them in the ambulance. The car immediately sped up toward the hospital with its siren on.


    Tristan sat beside Bella and placed his arms around her back. He gently pulled her close, leaned in, and whispered near her ear.


    "Do you want to lie down? You look exhausted," Tristan said, concerned about how much blood Bella had lost, especially since she was pregnant. She might feel dizzy.


    Bella shook her head and glanced at him. "I¡¯m fine, Tristan," she said, smiling to assure him she was okay.


    She only wanted to embrace her son and give him a sense of security. As a mother, she could feel the tremor her son was experiencing.


    Even though her son, Dax, has been taught how to defend himself from incidents like the one that just happened, and his intelligence is different from other children his age, Dax is still too young to experience a murder attempt like that.


    Bella tightened her embrace and leaned closer to kiss between his eyebrows. After ensuring Dax was okay and felt comfortable in her embrace, she looked up to see Tristan.


    "But I¡¯m hungry. We have not yet had lunch," Bella feels her twins inside, starting to protest.


    By now, they are supposed to have enjoyed their lunch.


    "Dax, are you hungry too?" she asked.


    "Yes. I¡¯m so hungry, Mom," Dax said softly without moving or looking up to see his parents. He just hugged his mother like a koala and closed his eyes.


    Tristan said nothing, but he immediately took out his cell phone and made a call.


    After making arrangements for his wife and son to have lunch upon arrival at the hospital, he called Max to smooth their way to the hospital, ensuring no traffic light could stop them so they could arrive faster.


    Before long, finally, the ambulance arrived at Sinclair Int¡¯l Hospital.


    They didn¡¯t enter the hospital through the main entrance but through a special entrance for VIP patients only.


    Bella was speechless when she saw a group of senior doctors waiting at the entrance. Among them was Kelsey Robinson, her ob-gyn. A nurse had even brought a wheelchair.


    Confused, Bella looked at Tristan and asked, "What are they doing here?"


    "They¡¯re here to welcome you, dear."


    She shook her head slightly. She didn¡¯t feel like a critically ill patient.


    "Is it necessary for them to welcome me like this? And why did they prepare a wheelchair?"


    Tristan explained with a smile, "It¡¯s necessary because you are my wife. And as for the wheelchair, it¡¯s because you¡¯re injured."


    Bella reminded him, "I injured my hand, not my feet."


    Ignoring her comment, Tristan said, "Let me carry Dax." He took Dax from her before helping her get out of the car.


    Bella refrained from asking further questions. She held Tristan¡¯s hand tightly as she stepped out of the car. However, she slowed down to talk to Carlos beside her.


    "Can you ask everyone to leave? I feel uncomfortable with all of this," Bella pleaded silently. "Especially the wheelchair."


    She hoped Carlos would support her request and dismiss everyone so they wouldn¡¯t have to take her upstairs in a wheelchair.


    However, Carlos¡¯ response almost made her regret asking him.


    "Bella, you are our big boss¡¯s wife, and he already declared it to the world. From now on, you¡¯ll receive the same treatment everywhere you go. There¡¯s no need to feel burdened. Just enjoy it," Carlos smiled and began walking quickly. He took the wheelchair from the nurse and pushed it near Bella.


    Frustrated, Bella could only vent her feelings inwardly, ¡¯This man is certainly Tristan¡¯s best friend.¡¯ She refocused her attention ahead and later stopped before the wheelchair.


    "Ma¡¯am, please take a seat," Carlos said sarcastically, causing Bella¡¯s face to turn red. Before she could reject Carlos, Tristan helped her sit down.


    Bella was lost for words.


    "Thank you, doc, for your help," Tristan smiled at Carlos. He pushed the wheelchair after placing Dax on the ground to walk alone.


    Bella could only obey them and tried to hide her face, pretending to look at her injured hand. However, she couldn¡¯t avoid it when a few hospital directors greeted her.


    After returning their greeting and exchanging a few words with her OB-GYN, they entered the elevator and headed upstairs.


    ***


    As Bella entered the surgery room with Carlos as the head surgeon, Tristan took Dax to their VIP ward so he could take a nap.


    Tristan talked with Dax about what happened in the restaurant, wanting to know how his son felt. He was worried that his son would be traumatized.


    After their heart-to-heart talk, Tristan was grateful because Dax didn¡¯t seem traumatized or afraid of the woman who used him as a hostage. However, he was worried about his mother¡¯s injury.


    "Because of me, Mommy has an injury. I saw she lost so much blood, Dad," Dax said with a shaking tone as he looked at his father sleeping next to him. "How about my twin siblings? Are they okay?"


    Tristan turned to him, saying, "Don¡¯t worry, Mommy¡¯s injury will heal soon. Uncle Carlos and a few doctors will help Mommy¡¯s hand heal faster. And your siblings are fine." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dax nodded in relief while yawning. He started to feel his eyes getting heavy, feeling full after their late lunch. And now, he felt sleepy.


    "You did a great job, buddy," Tristan said with a smile. He was proud that his son didn¡¯t cry at all. He even helped his mother to escape from that situation.


    "I also feel proud of myself, Dad. I can¡¯t wait to tell my teacher," Dax responded with closed eyes.


    It didn¡¯t take long, and Dax finally fell asleep.


    After ensuring that Dax slept comfortably under his soft blanket, Tristan stood up and walked outside the bedroom.


    Tristan saw Noora waiting near the door, looking tense. He asked her to accompany Dax in the bedroom before he joined Reid and Bryan in the seating area.

 Chapter 480: Bryan Awaits His Punishment

    The tension in the living room of the VIP ward felt palpable.


    Tristan¡¯s calm expression slowly disappeared, and annoyance emerged from his eyes as if Hellfire were dancing in them. He saw Reid and Bryan sitting opposite him without uttering anything, making them even more nervous.


    After a few seconds, Tristan¡¯s eyes finally fixed on Bryan.


    "How could you make such a mistake? I have known you for so long, Bryan, and I know you are not someone who would make a mistake with the task I assigned you." This is one of the reasons why Tristan entrusted Bryan to be his wife¡¯s bodyguard; he is one of his trusted people.


    Bryan¡¯s hands felt cold as he lowered his gaze, unable to meet Tristan¡¯s eyes. He couldn¡¯t refute his words because he knew he made a huge mistake.


    "Tell me a good reason that could help me understand why you did that," Tristan said coldly.


    He learned from Bella that Dax supposedly did not enter the restaurant as she had instructed Bryan to keep Dax outside to prevent him from meeting his mother. However, Dax still ran inside, allowing a crazy woman to capture him.


    Bryan slowly raised his head to meet Tristan¡¯s gaze and finally explained what had really happened that time. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boss, I¡¯m sorry. Really, really sorry. I was distracted by someone following us since we left the office, and without my knowledge, the young master ran away from me."


    After taking a deep breath, Bryan continued to explain that he had been guarding them in the car. But suddenly, Dax needed to go to the bathroom, so he walked them inside the restaurant.


    However, just as they were about to return to the car, his team called him regarding the suspicious individual following Bella from the office. Suddenly, during the call, Dax spotted his mother in the VIP room area in a split second and ran after her.


    Tristan needed a few moments to process Bryan¡¯s explanation. Although he was angry at him for putting his son in danger, he also understood the situation. He knew they had planned to capture whoever followed his wife that day.


    He turned his gaze back to Bryan, "Did your team capture the person following my wife?"


    "Yes. That person is now at the Brick House," Bryan replied, glancing at Reid. "Have you interrogated them?" He was also curious about their identity.


    Reid shook his head. He had to rush to the restaurant before he could conduct the interrogation. However, the two men at their base camp were not going anywhere. He would return there and gather clues about who was behind them and why they were interested in their young madam.


    Bryan looked back at Tristan, still feeling guilty because Bella had been injured because of him.


    "Boss, I know I failed to protect your wife. Whatever the reason I gave you, I¡¯m still guilty, and I made her badly hurt," Bryan¡¯s voice sounded stoic, "I am ready to accept whatever punishment you give me, sir."


    Reid looked at Bryan sympathetically, realizing he would be severely punished this time. He knew how Tristan would settle the failure; he never forgave a mistake, even if it was just a tiny mistake.


    Feeling tense, Reid followed Bryan, looking at Tristan to hear the punishment.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to respond. He leaned back on the sofa, appearing more relaxed and calm as he looked at Bryan.


    After a while, Tristan finally spoke, "I won¡¯t punish you, Bryan. However, I hope there will be no more mistakes in the future. This is my second chance for you."


    Reid was shocked to hear Tristan¡¯s answer. He didn¡¯t expect him to be so lenient, even giving Bryan a chance. Why had he suddenly changed his approach?


    Bryan was in disbelief at what he had just heard. A surge of relief filled his heart. Ever since leaving the restaurant, he had been worried sick, thinking that Tristan would send him far away from the city to do tedious and unpleasant work, just as he had done in the past when punishing his people.


    "Thank you, Boss, for this second chance. I promise you that I will not make another mistake in the future. I will prioritize protecting your wife above all else," Bryan said, thanking Tristan for his gratitude and kindness.


    Tristan simply nodded, though his displeased expression lingered. He wasn¡¯t happy with his decision to give Bryan a second chance because, deep down, he still wanted to punish him.


    However, he couldn¡¯t do that because earlier, during lunch, Bella had warned him not to punish Bryan. Although he was unhappy, he had to obey his wife.


    "You¡¯d better do that, Bryan, because this is your only chance," Tristan¡¯s voice came across as an order. Then, he shifted his gaze to Reid and asked, "Did you gather all the information about the woman?"


    "Yes, boss," Reid immediately reported what he had learned from Max¡¯s report. "Her name is Kelly Davis, and she is Andreas Corby¡¯s secretary."


    "Andreas Corby?" Tristan repeated. He had heard of that person but seemed to have forgotten. Maybe he wasn¡¯t an important person, which is why he paid less attention to him.


    "Yes, he is the former CEO of Quantum Capital, the one Young Madam fired."


    Tristan now recalled that person. Slowly, his expression grew even darker.


    "When Kelly was still Andreas¡¯ secretary, she was also his romantic partner. After Andreas was fired and returned to his country, Kelly was also dismissed because of her involvement in Andreas¡¯ fraudulent activities. A few months ago, there was a record of her miscarriage."


    Reid continued explaining that Kelly did not know Bella¡¯s identity because not all Quantum Capital employees knew her. She only found out Bella¡¯s identity after reading the news on the internet. Having learned about it, Kelly waited for Bella to appear at the office and followed her to a restaurant, intending to take revenge.


    Tristan clenched his fists when he heard this information. Not long afterward, he immediately asked Reid to pursue legal action against Kelly and ensure she would be imprisoned for a long time.

 Chapter 481: Lewis Sinclair Rage!

    The next day.


    Tristan left the house after having breakfast with his wife and son, but instead of heading to the office, he went to his parents¡¯ house. He needed to deal with his mother¡¯s problems.


    He was worried that his mother might do something terrible to harm Bella, similar to what she had done to his Grandma, and he knew he would never forgive her if she did.


    For years, Tristan had wondered why his mother hated his wife, Bella. He had asked his wife about it a few times, but she never said a word whenever he brought it up.


    After hearing his mother¡¯s reason for hating Bella yesterday, he felt furious. He went to the restaurant to confront his mother and planned to take her to meet his Grandpa and Father.


    However, a terrible incident occurred when a crazy woman tried to harm his wife and son. He had to put his mother¡¯s matters on hold and asked his people to escort her back home. He also arranged for the house to be guarded to ensure his mother would not leave and cause problems for them.


    Because of his actions, his father, William Sinclair, called him and was curious why he had suddenly put his mother under house arrest.


    He didn¡¯t tell his father what happened in the restaurant or what he had heard over the phone¡ªthe conversation between Bella and his mother. He knew that telling his father right away would have caused a war, so he only told his father to wait for him to come.


    Tristan also didn¡¯t tell his grandfather about it, worried that his grandfather would expel his mother from the Sinclair family if he knew.


    Arriving at his parents¡¯ house, Tristan parked beside his grandfather¡¯s car and rushed inside. He saw his father and grandfather talking while enjoying their tea in the living room without his mother present.


    Looking at their relaxed expressions, he knew they had not heard anything about what had happened in the restaurant, which relieved him slightly as he approached them.


    "Grandpa, Father," Tristan greeted them, causing them to turn their heads toward him immediately. Their calm expressions slowly changed as if a big question mark had now perched on their foreheads, looking at him.


    "Why did you ask me to come here this early? I even have to rush my breakfast?" Lewis Sinclair asked, his voice sounding unhappy. He didn¡¯t like coming to this place this early, only to give up his morning chess.


    "Tristan, why did you put so many guards in this house? Did something bad happen in the office to make you worry?" William Sinclair asked worriedly.


    Tristan did not immediately sit with them or answer them. He looked at the two of them before asking them to follow him to his father¡¯s home office.


    He did not want anyone to hear what he would discuss with them. This matter was serious, dark, and shameful.


    Although confused by Tristan¡¯s unusual behavior, Lewis and William Sinclair followed him.


    After allowing his father and grandfather to enter the room, Tristan looked at Alan, his Grandpa¡¯s butler, in the corner.


    "Is there anything you need from me, sir?" Alan approaches Tristan.


    "Please, don¡¯t let anyone approach or enter this room."


    "Yes, sir. I will follow your instructions."


    "Thank you, Alan," Tristan patted his shoulder gently and entered the room.


    Tristan closed the door before joining his father and grandfather in the seating area. Their eyes held confusion as they stared at him.


    Ignoring their curious gazes, he sat across from them.


    "Brat, are you trying to spike my blood pressure? To make me angry!?" Lewis Sinclair snapped. He couldn¡¯t wait any longer. Why was Tristan acting so weird? "Tell me now, or I will really go mad at you¡ª"


    "Grandpa, Father," Tristan addressed them, one after the other. "I want you to hear this voice recording." He placed his phone on the table.


    "What is it?" William Sinclair asked, but Tristan didn¡¯t answer; instead, he pushed the Play button.


    "I¡¯m really sorry. I don¡¯t quite understand what you mean, Mam!? And can¡¯t you just leave us alone? I love your son, and he loves me; how could you be so desperate to separate us!?"


    Bella¡¯s voice could be heard from the cell phone speaker, which surprised William and Lewis Sinclair.


    "Oh, my dear Bella, I actually liked you when you first joined my family; however, you¡¯re too smart. You make me worry. I can¡¯t trust you, so I can¡¯t let you stay in my family."


    They both felt more puzzled when Jessica Sinclair¡¯s voice could be heard. However, they didn¡¯t say anything other than listen, but their confused gazes were fixed on Tristan, who ignored them and looked at his cell phone sternly.


    "Ma¡¯am, I still don¡¯t understand why you despise me so much. If you tell me now, I promise I¡¯ll leave..."


    "If you want a grandchild...I will give you one or maybe three. I promise you, please let me stay with your family, huh!? Or tell me your true reason for wanting me to leave Tristan..."


    "You want to know my reason?"


    There was a long pause. William was about to ask Tristan, but Jessica¡¯s voice suddenly sounded again.


    "Fine. Because I know you are the only person who knows I was responsible for my mother-in-law¡¯s death. So, Bella, I can not and will not allow you to be around my family, let alone live under the same roof as my son. If you insist, I¡¯ll force myself to drag you out or even end you!"


    Tristan immediately turned off the voice recording and waited for them to say something.


    However, a few minutes passed, and no one spoke. He then looked at his father and grandfather and waited for their reactions. "Grandpa, Dad?" he asked.


    "Why is your mother talking like that, Tristan? Responsible for her mother-in-law¡¯s death? What does your mother mean?"


    William Sinclair was the first one to react. He knew the meaning of Jessica¡¯s words, but his mind still refused to believe what he had just heard.


    Tristan silently took a deep sigh. Instead of answering his father¡¯s question, he looked at his Grandpa. To his surprise, he could see how furious his Grandpa¡¯s expression was now.


    "Grandpa, are you alright?"


    Lewis Sinclair felt his world implode. It felt like someone had just ripped out his heart upon hearing the last words of his daughter-in-law.


    ¡¯She was involved in my wife¡¯s death?¡¯ Lewis Sinclair didn¡¯t need to ask to know what Jessica meant. He tried to deny what he heard, hoping he heard it wrong. However, the rage inside him grew even worse.


    "Tristan," Lewis¡¯s voice sounded icy as he looked at his grandson. "When did this conversation take place?"


    William Sinclair also looked curiously at Tristan.


    Tristan immediately told Lewis and William Sinclair what had happened the previous day at the Roots & Recipe Family Restaurant about how Bella accidentally met his mother and was confronted by her. He also told them how Dax was taken hostage, and Bella ended up getting injured and needing surgery.


    Lewis and William Sinclair were shocked to hear that. They were both horrified, not about Jessica confronting Bella but about Dax¡¯s situation and Bella¡¯s injury. They momentarily forgot about Jessica and were worried about Dax and Bella, especially Bella, who had been seriously injured.


    "Where are they now? I want to meet them both..." Lewis¡¯s voice sounds worried and hurried. He just wanted to make sure they were alright.


    "Me, too. I want to meet them. Father, let¡¯s visit them," William Sinclair said while preparing to leave.


    Tristan was speechless.


    "Grandpa, Father, they are at home, resting." Tristan hurriedly interrupted them. Looking at their frowns, he continued, "You can visit them later, but we must talk about my mother. "


    "You are right¡ª" Instantly, Lewis Sinclair¡¯s rage returned upon hearing Tristan¡¯s words. He indeed needs to deal with his daughter-in-law. ¡¯Why was he involved in his wife¡¯s death? What is her motive to do such a terrible act?¡¯ he wanted to know this. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    William Sinclair is wearing the same expression as his father, but his eyes flash with shame and sadness. How could his wife have the heart to harm his mother?


    Seeing the two of them lost in their thoughts, Tristan spoke again.


    "Grandpa, Father, I will not interfere with how you handle my mother. But please make sure that she will not try to harm my wife and son. If she does that, I will no longer want to acknowledge her as part of my family!" Tristan said firmly.


    William Sinclair¡¯s hands clenched tightly. "I understand, my son. Don¡¯t worry. I will take care of your mother."


    "Tristan, thank you for letting us know about this," Lewis Sinclair snarled. "Don¡¯t worry, that woman will not be able to appear before Bella and Dax again."


    "Thank you, father and grandpa," Tristan said with a smile. "I don¡¯t want my wife to stress because she is pregnant now."


    "Oh my god... I¡¯m so happy for you and Bella," Lewis¡¯ stiff expression slowly faded, and his smile appeared upon hearing this good news.


    "Tristan, congrats, son."


    "Thank you," Tristan responded. He did not stay there for long. He immediately said goodbye and left his father and grandpa to handle his mother.


    He quickly excused himself to head to his underground base camp to take care of the other source of his headache.

 Chapter 482: Jessica Sinclair Awaits Her Punishment

    Jessica¡¯s bedroom felt like a cage as she paced, her thumb between her teeth.


    The news of Tristan¡¯s arrival and his meeting with his father and Grandpa left Jessica worried and fearful. She knew exactly what her son would talk about¡ªher confession yesterday.


    "Madam," the middle-aged maid¡¯s voice made Jessica halt her steps. She turned to her as if to ask, "What¡¯s wrong?" with her gaze.


    "Please, madam, you have to calm down. Everything will be fine," the maid continued.


    "Can you hear what they¡¯re talking about?" Jessica asked, her voice slightly raised. She couldn¡¯t hide how worried she was.


    "Sorry, madam, I can¡¯t get near the master¡¯s home office. Alan is standing in front of the door." The maid¡¯s guilt was evident in her nervous voice as she confessed her inability to assist her madam.


    Jessica resumed pacing back and forth. Her heart couldn¡¯t calm down. It felt like it was beating a mile per second.


    ¡¯I¡¯m finished! I¡¯m finished! Father will kill me, for sure. And William will despise me. No, he might divorce me.¡¯ She screamed in her heart, biting her thumb. ¡¯What should I do?


    This is because of that bitch! Areballa Donovan, you are so cruel!¡¯


    Even though she tried to answer all the questions about her fate that filled her mind, she couldn¡¯t. She was too confused, worried, and scared.


    She could imagine her fate now.


    The secret she had kept so well all this time, the nightmare she tried to bury for years to make sure no one would know until she died, was eventually revealed. Annoyingly, she was the one who exposed it.


    "Madam," another maid rushed into the room, pulling Jessica out of her thoughts. The maid stood a few steps from Jessica, her pale face making Jessica feel her blood run cold, knowing her punishment was near.


    "What happened?" the middle-aged maid asked her friend, approaching her, curious about the latest news from the first floor.


    The young maid didn¡¯t answer immediately. She took in as much fresh air as possible; she felt breathless after sprinting from the first floor to this place. She patted her chest gently as if to calm her heart.


    After feeling better, she looked at Jessica with worry. "Master Tristan, he just left the house. And, he looks furious; he didn¡¯t even say anything back to Alan when Alan asked him something." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jessica felt her knees turn to jelly. She almost fell, but the maids rushed to help her and brought her to sit on the sofa.


    She felt heartbroken as she settled on the sofa, knowing that Tristan must be angry at her.


    Her mind started to fill with countless questions, making her even more worried and nervous.


    ¡¯I¡¯m doomed! I¡¯m really doomed this time. Tristan must have reported everything to William and Father, right?¡¯


    ¡¯No! I¡¯ll be fine. They won¡¯t do anything to me!¡¯


    ¡¯Yes, I¡¯ll be fine. They don¡¯t have any evidence that I was involved. It all happened a long time ago. I¡¯m sure nothing would lead to me. No trace could lead to me.¡¯


    A slight hope now appeared in her heart, ¡¯You will be fine, Jess! Yes, you will...be fine!¡¯


    "Madam¡ª"


    One more, the voice of the middle-aged maid pulled Jessica back from her confused-worry thoughts.


    She turned to her maid, asking, "What is it?"


    "Master asks you to come downstairs, ma¡¯am..." the maid answered.


    Jessica¡¯s heart sank, and her hands were as cold as ice as she stood up from her seat and started to walk.


    Standing before her husband¡¯s home office, Jessica felt increasingly restless. She could only nod slowly when Alan greeted her.


    Before entering the room, she took a deep breath, adjusting her worried and frightened expression to appear calm. She was pretending not to know what had happened.


    Instantly, there was no trace of fear on her face, only a friendly smile and a relaxed expression as she walked into the room.


    "Father, Will," she greeted them calmly with a smile. "Why did you call me here?" she asked again as she sat before them.


    Her calm demeanor belied the turmoil inside¡ªeven though her heart was pounding, she felt anxious¡ªshe knew what they wanted to talk about.


    Jessica¡¯s fear deepened when she saw anger and disgust in her father-in-law¡¯s eyes.


    And, when she turned to see her husband, William, her heart sank, knowing how sad he was now.


    The grip of her hand on her thigh became tighter and colder. She realized that this could be the end for her.


    After a few minutes passed, Jessica asked again. Still, they only stared at her without saying anything, giving her the silent treatment.


    "Father, Husband, what¡¯s wrong? Why are you both looking at me like that? Please say something, don¡¯t make me nervous."


    "What¡¯s your motive for doing that?" Lewis Sinclair finally spoke. His tone was calm, but his fierce gaze couldn¡¯t conceal his fury.


    "Father, do what?" Jessica frowned. She knew what he was referring to, but she acted clueless.


    "You are so heartless, evil, Jessica. Now, after you¡¯ve been exposed, you still deny it?" Lewis Sinclair snapped in annoyance while pointing his finger at Jessica. "What an evil woman, inhumane. You created such a nasty plot to take your own mother-in-law¡¯s life?"


    Jessica felt her heart sink as she saw how furious her father-in-law was.


    Her voice trembled, "F-Father, I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t know what you are talking about."


    "You lowly thing! Stop your lies. We already have evidence that you were involved in my wife¡¯s death!"


    Jessica gasped.


    "Father, how could you say that?" Jessica responded in fright. "How could I do that? I didn¡¯t, Father. Please trust me." Her eyes slowly turned red as she held back tears.


    "Stop your nonsense, Jessica Harris!" Lewis¡¯ eyes turned fierce, looking at this devil woman. "How could you still not admit your actions when Tristan already has the evidence?"


    Jessica was shocked to hear that.


    ¡¯Did they really have the evidence? Seriously? How so? Did Bella have it? No way! Impossible...¡¯ Jessica doubted it.


    But she said nothing; now, only tears flowed down her cheeks.

 Chapter 483: Begging. That’s All She Can Do!

    Lewis Sinclair had never met anyone more shameless than this evil woman! What she did to his late wife didn¡¯t deserve prison as punishment but heavenly retribution.


    Jessica¡¯s cries, which sounded so fake, made Lewis Sinclair¡¯s blood boil even more. He couldn¡¯t stay in this room for too long, or for the first time, he might take someone¡¯s life.


    He had a strong urge to give a powerful slap to this shameless woman, but he resisted.


    "Why are you so evil? Even though I¡¯ve been very good to you. I accepted you as part of my family despite your lowly background. We never saw you differently. But how did you repay me? You became the mastermind responsible for my wife¡¯s death.


    Why did you do that, Jessica? Why?"


    "Father, I¡¯m not¡ª" Jessica¡¯s voice was lost between her sobs.


    "Stop lying! Why did you do it, Jessica? Tell me! Why did you hate my wife enough to poison her and kill her slowly? How could you even think of such a thing?"


    Lewis could no longer hold back his frustration. Tears began to roll down his cheeks as he remembered how miserably his wife suffered, dying from undetected poison.


    "Father, please, your blood pressure..." William Sinclair said softly, worried when he saw how red his father¡¯s face was.


    Ignoring his son, Lewis continued, his eyes still fixed on Jessica. "I can no longer let you stay in my family, Jessica. There is no place for you here. And, starting today, you have no right to use my name."


    Lewis then looked at his son, "Will, I won¡¯t say anything else to her. Speaking and sharing the same room with her shortens my life. You handle her as I said..." He said.


    No words could describe Lewis Sinclair¡¯s current feelings. He was devastated and furious, having learned that his wife was poisoned by his own daughter-in-law. The woman they once considered family turned out to be a demoness.


    He could feel the pain seeping into his heart and bones as he left the room.


    He needed to leave immediately before he did something he would regret. He refused to stoop so low as to kill Jessica.


    At that moment, he longed to find solace in his great-grandson, Daxton.


    "Master..." Alan was taken aback by how distressed his master looked. He quickly reached out his hand to support him as they left the house. "Should we go back home, Master?"


    "No. Please, take me to Little Heaven. I want to see Bella and Dax."


    "Yes, sir..."


    ***


    Jessica knelt on the floor, facing her husband.


    Her tears flowed heavily as she stared at him, sitting there without saying anything. He seemed to have become one with the sofa.


    If she couldn¡¯t see the look in his eyes, radiating disappointment and disgust, she would believe her husband was part of the sofa.


    ¡¯He must be disappointed in me,¡¯ Jessica thought in worry. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She could only kneel and plead to soften William¡¯s heart. She knew her husband¡¯s weakness: seeing her cry. His heart would surely melt, as usual.


    "Will, you have to believe me, please," Jessica sobbed as she held onto his feet. "How could I do such a crazy thing? You know how much I¡¯ve given to your family, right?"


    Still, no words came from William Sinclair¡¯s lips. He only stared at her with the same disgusted look.


    "Husband, don¡¯t believe what Bella said, please. That woman only hated me. That¡¯s why she slandered me. She wanted to take revenge on me because I despised her in the past. But you know why I hated her, right? I just wanted our family to have a successor."


    Jessica gritted her teeth, looking at William, who still gave her the silent treatment.


    "Bella is not a good wife for Tristan. I believe her child is not Tristan¡¯s¡ª"


    "ENOUGH!!"


    Jessica¡¯s words abruptly stopped. Her eyes widened as she looked at William, finally speaking, but his expression was unlike anything she had ever seen.


    "Stop speaking. Everything coming out of your mouth is a lie, Jessica! You know that!"


    "Will, how could you not believe me?" Jessica¡¯s tears rolled down her cheeks again, and she felt hurt hearing her husband¡¯s anger. "How could you believe that woman over me? I¡¯m your wife, Will. I¡¯ve spent almost all my life with you."


    Her cry grew louder, leaving William Sinclair even more speechless. Only now did he realize how shameless and manipulative this woman was.


    He had never witnessed this side of her before. She always appeared graceful, loving, and beautifully calm. Her love for his family convinced him that she was perfect for him.


    In his eyes, her only flaw was her hatred toward Bella and the Donovan family. However, she always made excuses whenever he asked, saying that the Sinclairs needed a successor and Bella wasn¡¯t yet pregnant. That¡¯s why he agreed when she forced their son to divorce Bella.


    Even though he had heard the voice recording, William still hoped his wife wasn¡¯t as evil as his father described.


    However, listening to her now, the doubts in his heart faded, and his view of this woman instantly changed.


    Gritting his teeth, William said, "Jessica Harris, listen, I will divorce you¡ª"


    "NO! NO! I WON¡¯T ACCEPT!" Jessica roared in panic. She would never agree to it. Never!


    "You can¡¯t refuse, Jessica. You should have known that the moment you planned to harm my mother, you sealed your fate," William said.


    William felt sad and hurt by his own words. Still, he tried hard not to show any sadness before this woman.


    "No, I won¡¯t accept it, William, because I didn¡¯t do it. I never did. Trust me, huh?" Jessica shamelessly pleaded. She would never admit anything.


    William no longer cared about what she said. He stood from his seat, feeling exhausted from talking with her.


    "Wait, wait, William!" Jessica shouted as she tried to stand up and catch him.


    Jessica managed to hold William¡¯s feet. While crying, she said, "Please, give me a chance to prove it to you. Huh? Please¡ª"

 Chapter 484: I’m Dying!

    There was no expression on William Sinclair¡¯s face as he listened to Jessica¡¯s words. He was tired of hearing her lies. If he stayed here for another minute, he might collapse and end up in the hospital.


    "I love you, Will. I love you so much, and I know you love me too. I know you don¡¯t want to divorce me. Your father must be forcing you to do so, right?"


    Jessica was still trying hard to win his heart back. She looked up to meet his gloomy gaze, confident she could make him forgive her.


    "Please, don¡¯t abandon me just because Bella is trying to kick me out of our family, Will. And, you have to remember, I¡¯m Tristan¡¯s mother. You can¡¯t divorce me. Our divorce might cause a company share to fall..." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jessica tried everything to make him change his mind.


    William Sinclair let out a deep sigh. He turned away from her and looked up at the ceiling, pinching his temple in exhaustion. He felt like he just wanted his cancer to take his life right away. Why hold him in this world to witness the woman he loves, who now has become someone he wants to avoid and despises?


    "Please forgive me, Jessica," William said softly, his voice trembling. "I¡¯m exhausted from all of this. I no longer have the energy to think or fight for my life and our future. I will let you go forever, Jessica."


    "No, Will," Jessica pleaded, tightening her grip on William¡¯s leg. "I will change. I promise you...I will be a good person for you and a good mother for Tristan. I promise I will not¡ª"


    "STOP IT, Jessica. Please just stop...huh!?" William said in a trembling voice. Tears he had held back slowly fell, moistening the corners of his eyes as he looked at her.


    "It doesn¡¯t mean anything anymore, even if you promise to change, Jessica. Because I won¡¯t live in this world much longer." William continues his words. He sounds helpless.


    "William, what do you mean?" Jessica asked, wiping her tears, her confusion clearly showing in her eyes. "Why did you say something like that? Huh!?"


    "I¡¯m dying, Jessica. My end is very near to me now," William said. He could no longer keep this from her.


    All this time, William deliberately didn¡¯t want to let her know. He didn¡¯t want to make her sad if she knew he was going to die soon.


    But now, he had to tell her. Maybe if Jessica knew now, she would realize they had no future. She may ask for forgiveness for her actions in the past instead of denying or even blaming others.


    "Dying?" Jessica asked. She didn¡¯t understand what he was trying to say. "Who is dying? You? What do you mean by that?"


    William didn¡¯t answer her, but he took her hand and led her to the sofa before he settled opposite her. He saw her tears slowly stop, but her eyes flashed with confusion as she waited for him to speak.


    "Jessica, I have had cancer for the past few years. The results are still the same, and in recent months, my cancer has gotten worse. It was only a miracle that I could survive this long after the doctor said that my disease was incurable. I can¡¯t be helped anymore," he continued to explain about his illness.


    Seeing Jessica sobbing before him hurt William. This is why he didn¡¯t want to tell her; he just wanted to leave quietly without seeing her sad.


    Even though he hated her now, deep down, he still loved her.


    "I no longer think about anything other than just wanting this to end quickly. I¡¯m so tired. Tired of this life," William took a deep breath, feeling his chest tighten. "Let¡¯s get a divorce, Jessica. You¡¯re still young. You can continue your life and find your happiness."


    "William¡ª"


    "I will arrange your life comfortably for the rest of your life. But you will no longer be a part of my family. And you can¡¯t stay in this city either," William paused to clear his throat as he saw her silently cry.


    He continued, "My father and Tristan have asked you never to appear before Bella and their son."


    "William, please¡ª" Her voice disappeared again. It felt like her mind was empty.


    She could only cry, seeing William, who had always supported her, stood behind her no matter what she did, and always defended her. But now he looked fragile, like an empty shell.


    "I will give you two days to pack your things and stay here. After that, my lawyer will meet you to explain everything about our divorce. No worries, I will assign a maid to care for you in your new place. Ah, you can choose the property I will give you later."


    "Please don¡¯t do that to me, William. I will take care of you. I will accompany you until the disease takes you from this world. Please let me do that... huh!?" Jessica begged. She no longer cared about Bella; she just wanted to stay by his side.


    "I don¡¯t want to, Jessica. Because... every time I see you, my hatred for you is even greater. You killed the woman who gave birth to me. How could I keep you by my side? I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t."


    Jessica shook her head helplessly while crying. "Please, William, give me one more chance. I promise that after you are gone, I will follow you to the afterlife. I will not cause any problems for Tristan and Bella again. Please don¡¯t throw me away now."


    "There¡¯s no chance for you this time, Jessica. This is the end for us. If you insist on refusing my offer, I will take my father¡¯s advice and send you to prison for killing my mother." William said firmly as he stood up from his seat. "You decide!"


    William left the room without paying attention to the cries of the woman he once loved with all his heart. There was no more pity left in his heart for her. He would never forgive her, even though she was the mother of his son.

 Chapter 485: Dying is Better Than Betraying the Organization

    Tristan sat silently in his vehicle as it quickly headed to the Red Brick House, which served as his base camp on the city¡¯s outskirts.


    He was eager to learn the results of Reid¡¯s interrogation of the two men who had been causing him concern for the past few months. They seemed to have an unusual interest in his wife¡¯s identity.


    Clearly, someone was targeting Bella, and Tristan feared this person might be his old enemy. This enemy had vanished after he beat them in a confrontation to secure the ownership and complete control of some of the mining deals a few years ago.


    The thought of this person returning and exploiting his weakness¡ªhis wife and son¡ªfilled Tristan with dread. He knew he wouldn¡¯t forgive himself if his enemy harmed his family in any way.


    He was determined to find out who was behind all of this and put an end to it, ensuring the safety of his family and his own peace of mind.


    "Sir, we¡¯ve arrived."


    Tristan opened his eyes at his driver¡¯s voice.


    He saw the car parked in front of the Red Brick House.


    At the same time, Reid, his head of security, opened the car door for him.


    "Boss, welcome," Reid greeted him politely.


    "How did it go?" Tristan asked as he exited the car and began walking towards the building.


    "They didn¡¯t say a word at all. These people are fiercely loyal to whoever asked them to spy on the young madam." Reid scratched his head before continuing, "It looks like they¡¯d rather die than betray their organization."


    His frustration was evident in his tone. He had already tried everything to make them speak, but not a single word came from those people.


    Tristan frowned as he entered the elevator, which led them to the underground.


    Before long,


    Tristan stood expressionless before the one-way glass window, observing the two men tied up in chairs with battered bodies and dried blood on the floor.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Boss. I¡¯ve asked Max to trace the places they frequented and the people they met over the past few months. I hope we can find a clue there," Reid said, glancing at Tristan. He could tell his Boss was very worried.


    "When can we expect Max¡¯s report?" Tristan asked, turning his gaze back to Reid.


    "I asked for it this afternoon at the latest. I¡¯ll make sure to report to you before the day is over," Reid explained.


    "Please make sure you find something from there. We need to move quickly to capture the person behind them," Tristan expressed his anxiety again.


    "I will do my best, sir."


    Tristan looked back into the room before inquiring about Kelly Davis¡¯s progress.


    "That woman is now in the police station. She won¡¯t be able to get out of prison for a long time and won¡¯t become a threat to the young master and your wife in the future."


    Tristan nodded slightly and said, "Reid, please investigate if someone asked her to do that. Yesterday¡¯s incident was a bit odd."


    Reid frowned before asking, "You mean Andreas Corby?"


    "I¡¯m not sure about that. But I need you to check to ensure no one else comes after my family. Make sure you investigate the case thoroughly."


    "Yes, sir. I will..."


    "Thanks!"


    Tristan immediately left the base camp, heading to his office. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ***


    At Bella¡¯s house, Bella video-called Jack Foster. Even though office hours had long passed, seeing him still in the office made her believe Harper¡¯s words even more: Jack was having problems with his wife and wanted to end his marriage.


    "Boss, you work so hard," Bella greeted him with a smile.


    "Finally, the busy lady called me," Jack ignored Bella¡¯s words. "What¡¯s up?" he asked, leaning back in his chair, smiling at Bella on his laptop screen.


    Bella shrugged as she narrowed her eyes on him.


    "Well, Boss, I¡¯m busy because you asked me to take care of the trash company left behind by your brother-in-law."


    Jack¡¯s face instantly stiffened when he heard her words.


    "So, Boss, you should give me a huge year-end bonus as compensation for cleaning up your family mess." Bella¡¯s fake-miserable tone was enough to make Jack chuckle while he shook his head.


    "Sister... I know I¡¯m your superior here at this company. But I think you are as rich as I am regarding wealth. More so, your combined assets with your rich hubby are significantly larger than mine," Jack said with a pleading-gloomy expression. "You should be the one giving me something. I¡¯m broke here compared to you!"


    Bella rolled her eyes with a chuckle.


    "You think I don¡¯t know how much your wealth is? Ah, speaking of being broke, is that why your pretty wife divorced you?"


    "Damn! Where did you hear that cheap gossip?" Jack¡¯s brow raised slightly as he glared at Bella.


    "Uh-huh, so you¡¯re not getting a divorce? Good to hear that, bro," Bella said with a smile of relief. She knew Jack; he was a devoted husband who spent his time and money on his wife. How could he possibly get a divorce if he loved her so much?


    Jack¡¯s gloomy expression returned like a dark cloud loomed over his head.


    "Oh, I got divorced, alright," he confessed.


    "Huh? Didn¡¯t you deny the gossip earlier?" she asked in shock.


    "What I meant was, it wasn¡¯t her who asked for a divorce but me!"


    Bella was at a loss for words. She waited for Jack to continue speaking, but after a few more minutes, not a single word or sound came out of his lips.


    "Jack, you don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to," Bella finally asked again after they were silent for quite a while. "Why did you finally divorce her? Didn¡¯t you love her so much?"


    A wry smile appeared on Jack¡¯s lips before he answered Bella, "I love her so much. The problem is, she doesn¡¯t. After Stefan arrived, he found out something about her."


    Bella was even more confused.


    "What is it?"


    No matter how angry Jack was, he tried to control his emotions before speaking, "It turns out she was having an affair with a younger man. Her fitness trainer¡ªthey have been in a relationship for the past few years."

 Chapter 486: Plans To Resign

    No matter how angry Jack was, he tried to control his emotions before speaking, "It turns out she was having an affair with a younger man. Her fitness trainer¡ªthey had been in a relationship for the past few years."


    Bella couldn¡¯t hide how shocked she was at hearing Jack¡¯s words.


    Had his wife lost her mind? Despite having a husband as perfect as Jack¡ªhandsome, wealthy, and doting¡ªshe still cheated on him. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What else could his wife be looking for?


    A young man? No. Nonsense. Although Jack is now in his thirties, he still looks young. If new people met him, they might mistake him for someone still in his mid-twenties.


    Did his wife cheat because of time? Yes, maybe because of that. He is too busy running an interstellar company like RDF Group. He also often goes abroad, so perhaps, just maybe, his wife felt lonely and found her fitness trainer as a source of comfort.


    However, whatever the reason, that woman shouldn¡¯t have done that.


    ¡¯What an ungrateful woman!¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but scold Jack¡¯s wife in her mind.


    "Jack, I¡¯m sorry for what you went through."


    Bella expressed her sympathy for him from the bottom of her heart. They were so close enough to cause her heart to feel hurt for him. If she were in New York, she would probably confront that woman for daring to break her best friend¡¯s heart.


    "It¡¯s fine, Bella. Everything is in the past now. There¡¯s no need to talk about her anymore. She isn¡¯t worth our time any longer."


    Bella noticed Jack smiling at her, but she could tell his smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes.


    Instead, she saw sadness and disappointment in them.


    They were silent for a moment.


    Bella allowed him some time to collect his thoughts. She could sense that he was feeling stressed and upset.


    After a while, she asked, "Why did you only find out now?"


    Jack had a high level of self-control, yet hearing Bella¡¯s question, his calm face slowly turned dark.


    "I trusted her so much and always prioritized her happiness over mine. I never even imagined she would betray me for a second," Jack explained with a shrug.


    He continued, "She said the other man could give her what she needed: attention. She was getting more attention from him because she hadn¡¯t been getting it from me recently. I¡¯ve been too busy with the company¡ª"


    Bella could only sigh. She had already suspected that, and now she was unsure how to comfort him.


    "I hope your divorce process goes smoothly, Jack. If you need my help, please call me. I¡¯m always here to listen to everything you want to discuss!" Bella sincerely said.


    Bella wanted to stand beside Jack to lessen his sadness and burden, as he had done when she had trouble in the past, separated from Tristan, and moved to a foreign land. Jack and Harper were there to offer help, and she appreciated what he did for her and Dax then.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m fine now. Really, I¡¯m fine," Jack smiled, trying to convince Bella that he was okay. He didn¡¯t want his best friend to feel sad, either.


    Bella doubted it. She could see sorrow lingering in his gaze.


    "Okay, okay, stop talking about that damn woman. How¡¯s your life there?" Jack tried to divert their gloomy conversation.


    Bella agreed that there was no point in talking about that woman. She immediately informed him about the company¡¯s recent progress and the incident at the restaurant.


    Jack could no longer sit and relax. He sat straight and brought his head closer to the laptop to hear Bella more clearly.


    Bella described how Kelly Davis, Andreas Corby¡¯s secretary, took Dax hostage and eventually injured her hand.


    "Damn it! How could she do that to Dax?" Jack couldn¡¯t help but curse. "Is he alright now? And how about your hand?" he asked worriedly.


    Bella felt warm inside as she observed Jack¡¯s genuine anger and concern.


    "Dax is fine. However, my hand still needs many days to heal completely. This is one of the reasons I can¡¯t contribute much to the company. And, also, my lovely hubby put me under house arrest," she joked.


    "Show me your injury," he asked.


    Bella raised and showed him her injured palm.


    Seeing Bella¡¯s palms in bandages upset him. He said, "Bella, why didn¡¯t you tell me immediately? And why didn¡¯t you allow Sam to guard you?"


    Bella began to answer but stopped as Jack spoke again.


    "Listen, Bella, you can¡¯t push Sam away from you. You need to let him stay by your side. He is the one I assigned to ensure your safety. Your safety is his first priority. Help him do his job, Bella. And you¡¯ll help me reduce my stress about your safety.


    I¡¯m really concerned here."


    He paused to take another deep, long sigh. "Bella, you know what? I¡¯m responsible for your injury because this incident is related to the company."


    Bella smiled at him before she responded.


    "Jack, please; Tristan is already overreacting about my safety. You don¡¯t need to add to it; I feel dizzy here. My security here is probably tighter than the First Lady¡¯s. I feel like a world¡¯s top singer; I have many bodyguards."


    "However, tight security is crucial. We deal with various people out there, Bella. Sometimes they become friends, and sometimes they become enemies. That¡¯s why I insisted on sending Sam to you. Yet, you asked him to handle the Sentinel Network," Jack complained.


    Bella chuckled.


    She ignored him as something crossed her mind: her conversation with Tristan, who had asked her to stop working. If she wanted to work, Tristan suggested that she not work as CEO but as a board executive who only needed to give opinions if required.


    "Jack, there¡¯s something I need to tell you."


    "What is it?" Jack was taken aback, seeing that Bella looked sincerely tense now.


    "I plan to resign from my position here by the end of this year. I hope you will understand my reason and accept my resignation."


    Jack was shocked. No words could leave his lips; he was only staring at her with so many thoughts now filling his mind. He had already imagined this conversation since he knew Bella had returned to Tristan.

 Chapter 487: You Don’t Stand a Chance, Jack!

    Jack had already imagined this conversation since he knew Bella had returned to Tristan.


    "Resign? Not effective immediately, right? Can you resign next year? To mark exactly a year since you took over Quantum Capital and to give me time to find your replacement," Jack said.


    Bella shook her head slowly. "I can¡¯t wait that long, Jack."


    "Why not? I can ask Tristan for permission if you let me."


    "You don¡¯t need to ask for Tristan¡¯s permission. I know he won¡¯t give you even if you ask. It¡¯s because I¡¯m pregnant, Jack," Bella faintly smiled as she saw him gasp in shock.


    Jack¡¯s eyes widened in surprise at the good news. "Congratulations, Bella. I¡¯m so happy to hear it."


    "Thanks, bro."


    "Bella, come on, help me this time. You can still be active in the next four or five months before you give birth."


    "I¡¯m in my eighth week now. And it¡¯s a bit different this time because I¡¯m pregnant with twins," Bella explained.


    "Twins!? WOW! Bella, I am speechless. I am so happy now," Jack exclaimed, his eyes beaming with joy. After several weeks of stress dealing with his divorce, this was the first time he had felt so happy.


    "Yes. Thank you, bro. That¡¯s why I don¡¯t dare to take the risk to actively work with conditions like that. Also, you know Tristan, he feels worried about me, especially about what happened yesterday."


    "Alright, I will approve!" Jack had no other reason to refuse Bella¡¯s request. This is the only thing he could do for her.


    After all this time, Jack knew that Bella never wanted to return to the company. Just because he begged her, she agreed to return to take over the Quantum Capital in her country.


    "Do you have a candidate who will replace me?" Bella asked curiously.


    "Not yet. But I will look for someone from our other office near your country," replied Jack. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, someone¡¯s face crossed Bella¡¯s mind. "Jack, I have the right candidate to take over my position," her face lit up with a blissful smile.


    "Oh! Really? Who?" Jack asked curiously.


    "Harper! Send her here, let her take over Quantum¡ª"


    "Hahaha," Jack suddenly burst out laughing, interrupting Bella. "What makes you think she would want to move to a small and quiet country? Bella, you know her well. She¡¯s too happy living in a big, glamorous city like New York!" he said.


    Bella shook her head slowly, imagining that Harper would pack her suitcase and fly here immediately if asked. This was her chance to return to this country and meet Sean.


    "Jack, trust me. Harper will gladly accept your offer," Bella smiled meaningfully at him.


    "Come on, Bella. Harper Reed would throw my offer away the second I told her. I know her so well; she will curse me if I decide to send her there."


    Jack was confident in himself.


    "Besides, I will keep her here forever; you remember our vows, right?" he asked.


    "Your vows?" Bella tried to think but only needed a few seconds to recall. Slowly, a teasing smile framed her face before she asked, "You mean you guys will get married if she does not find her true love by her thirty-fifth birthday?"


    Jack nodded hurriedly.


    "Yep! Harper hasn¡¯t had a boyfriend in the past few years. And now I¡¯m single again. I¡¯m too exhausted to look for a new woman. I will just wait for her and settle with her."


    Bella didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry upon hearing his words.


    ¡¯Oh, my poor boy Jack... if you knew that Harper had already found her other half, you might be miserable again.¡¯ She instantly felt worried about him.


    "Anyway, no need to worry, Bella. I will find a capable person to place there. Besides, even though you are no longer acting as CEO, you still own the company and will have to look after them, right?"


    "For that, yes, of course. I keep my share of ownership. I just resigned from the CEO position because the responsibility was too much for me to handle if I couldn¡¯t move around like before. And as owner, I would be more than glad if Harper replaced me."


    "By the way, Bella, speaking about Harper," Jack paused to smile as he rubbed his nape before continuing, "Please, don¡¯t tell her anything about what we just talked about here. I¡¯ve already stressed her out with my divorce. I don¡¯t want to add to her stress, or she might send me to heaven," he chuckled.


    Bella nods.


    She was about to end the FaceTime call when she noticed Jack yawning repeatedly.


    However, she paused when Harper and Sean started bothering her mind.


    "Jack, wait..."


    "What?" Jack asked, frowning.


    "Please forget about your vow with Harper."


    "What? What do you mean?" Jack asked, shocked and confused. His tiredness and drowsiness slowly disappeared.


    "She¡¯s already met someone who she loves and might marry her. You don¡¯t stand a chance, Jack."


    Jack fell silent. Despite his refusal to believe, curiosity wins over him. He can¡¯t help but ask, "Oh, did she tell you that herself? I see. Who is he?"


    "Sean Spencer!"


    Jack almost choked upon hearing Bella¡¯s words, "Sean Spencer? You mean, the man who has a crush on you?"


    "Yes, him."


    "Haha..." Jack couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing. "Oh, Bella, Harper will never have a chance to pursue Sean. Please tell her to stop. How could Sean Spencer, someone who has liked you for so long, be able to move on and date her? Your best friend? How absurd!"


    Bella was left speechless by his response.


    "Well, Jack," Bella said over Jack¡¯s still booming laughter, "It¡¯s fine if you can¡¯t believe me. I¡¯m just warning you so you won¡¯t be too disappointed if you receive a wedding invitation from Harper one day." She smiled at him.


    Jack¡¯s laughter gradually subsided, and he turned his gaze back to Bella. This time, his heart tightened as he saw the seriousness in her expression.


    He knew Bella was one of his friends he could trust. And if she warned him like this, she spoke the truth.


    "Alright, I understand¡ª"


    "Jack, are you okay?" Bella asked. She felt terrible for telling him this but didn¡¯t want him to have false hope.


    "Mmm," A forced smile now graced Jack¡¯s lips. "Are you going to celebrate my nephew¡¯s birthday?" he tried to change the subject.


    "Of course. Please visit us. Dax always asks about you."


    "Tell him I will come with a huge present," he said before yawning again. "Alright, I guess I have to go now. I badly need a good night¡¯s sleep. Night, Bella..."


    "Good night, Jack," she responded while waving at him.

 Chapter 488: Dark Rose Nightclub?

    Sinclair Tower.


    The sky had changed color when Reid arrived in Tristan¡¯s office room.


    "Boss, I¡¯ve received a report from Max, but the results are zero. They are clean. No place they go is suspicious; it means they are not staying in one place for long," Reid explained while observing Tristan¡¯s expression, sitting across from him.


    "But, there is one thing that often happens from their tracks. They always visit and seem close with the Dark Rose Club employees." Reid continues.


    "Dark Rose Club?" Tristan frowned slightly. "You mean the nightclub?"


    "Yes, Boss. I asked Max to investigate those people," Reid answered quickly. "I hope to get more clues about them from this investigation."


    "Hmmm, that makes me suspicious," Tristan responded.


    "Suspicious? About what, Boss?"


    "Dark Rose Club. For no obvious reason, my gut tells me that the club is related to Dark Skull. Is it possible?" Tristan slightly took a deep sigh as he narrowed his eyes on Reid. "...or am I just paranoid that I was too susceptible to that damned organization?"


    Reid¡¯s eyes widened as he said, "Boss, you are right. Why did I forget about them? I was also taken aback when I heard the club¡¯s name, yet I didn¡¯t think they were related. But now that you said so, I will ask Max to link his investigation with them."


    Now Reid recalls the Dark Rose Club, a recently established nightclub that quickly became successful in the country, surpassing the previous one.


    Tristan didn¡¯t immediately respond to Reid. He turned to look outside at the now dark orange sky, pondering his next move to resolve the matter.


    After a few seconds, Tristan decided to change plans. He turned to Reid and said, "Release the two people in basecamp."


    "Release them? Are you serious, Boss?" Reid asked in confusion.


    "Yes! This is the only way to get what we want," Tristan explained his plan.


    Reid finally understood Tristan¡¯s intentions. He immediately nodded and excused himself to carry out his order.


    After Reid left the room, Tristan did not move from his chair.


    He turned his gaze back to the sky outside while his mind reels back to when he fought over a mining project with a company owned by a big gangster in this country, Dark Skull.


    The organization challenged his bottom line. Of course, he did not give them space to grow in this country; he fought them. And all his efforts paid off. With the help of the military special forces, he shut down the Dark Skull organization and all their businesses established in this country.


    Unfortunately, even though they shut down Dark Skull¡¯s operations in this country, they never found the mastermind behind them and the prominent leader of the underground organization. To this day, he still sent his people to trace them, yet no one has been able to find them all.


    "Mad Dog! Now, you return? And wanted to take revenge on me through my weakness? My wife?"


    Tristan¡¯s icy smile graced his lips as he stood from his seat. He needed to return home quickly. His wife had already called him to have dinner together. She had good news to share with him.


    ***


    A few days later.


    Tristan enjoys spending the weekend with his family in the backyard near the lake.


    That afternoon, the weather was enjoyable; they could do outdoor activities.


    It is unusual for Tristan to spend time with his father and grandfather around his house.


    He talked with his wife while sitting on the patio, watching their son fishing by the lake with his father and grandfather.


    They discussed many events in the last few days, especially Bella¡¯s plans to step down from her CEO position.


    Tristan is delighted to know the plan. He feels relieved because Bella no longer has to go to the office, and she no longer has to stress about office matters.


    He glanced at his wife, who was now reading a pregnancy book while leaning her head against his shoulder. A soft smile appeared on his lips as he pulled her to sit on his lap.


    "Tristan?" Bella was surprised by his sudden intimacy. "We are outside. Grandpa and Father will see us¡ª"


    She closed her book on her lap and turned to face him. Their faces were so close that their noses almost touched, and she could feel his warm breath tickling her skin. She pulled her head away from him.


    Tristan smiled and leaned in to capture her lips. After kissing her tenderly, he smiled at her teasingly.


    "My darling wife, my dad, and grandpa might encourage us. Did you forget how eager they are to get a grandchild from us?"


    Bella was speechless.


    "I am already pregnant, so why do they want to encourage us again? Gosh, don¡¯t make a random excuse," Bella scolded him, only to get a grin from him. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not wanting to anger Bella, Tristan stopped teasing her. However, he kept her sitting in his lap as he told her about his plans to move to their old house.


    Bella was shocked. She remembered that she had already sold that house. How could he want them to move there? She suddenly had a thought.


    "Tristan, did you buy the house?"


    Tristan smiled faintly while tucking her hair behind her ears.


    "Hmm... I¡¯m the one who bought the house when you asked the lawyer to sell it." He paused briefly to smile when he saw her gasping.


    "At that time, I already felt like I was losing you. So I kept the house, hoping we would return as a family and stay there. I know how much you adore that place." He continues.


    Bella¡¯s eyes slowly filled with tears as his words touched her heart deeply. She said nothing but listened to him finish his words.


    Tristan wrapped his arms around her.


    "Early this year, after you returned with Dax, I asked someone to renovate the interior, make changes on the second floor, and add a room for Dax and our future children. And, last month, the house was ready for us to move in. So we can move there before Dax celebrates his birthday."

 Chapter 489: Reluctant To Move

    Tristan waited for her to say something, but no words left her lips. He started to worry; his wife didn¡¯t like the idea of moving to that house.


    "Are you not happy to return there?" he asked worriedly.


    Tristan continued to emphasize the safety of the estate complex at their old house, which is why he wanted to relocate his family there.


    The security in the area was top-notch; it was only owned by old money in the country, and only a few respectable families had land there.


    Compared to their current place, the security at their old house was much tighter and safer.


    Recent events, primarily related to his old enemy, haunted him. Now, with Bella and Dax as the core and inseparable part of his family, he knew the person was targeting his weakness, his family; they already had information about his marriage to Bella and her identity as CEO of Quantum Capital. He hoped no one could connect Bella with the Donovan family in East City or about Dax.


    "Of course, I like it," Bella answered with a worried smile before adding, "But, Tristan, I only worry about your mother."


    Bella was traumatized while she still lived there. Almost every day, Jessica visited their house when Tristan was not around because their home was only about a minute¡¯s walk away.


    It didn¡¯t matter to her if Jessica only came to talk to her nicely. However, that woman somehow came to their house to find her flaw, ruin her sanity, and force her to divorce Tristan.


    Even though Jessica never laid a finger on her, Jessica¡¯s verbal abuse still made her sick. Traumatized.


    Tristan was relieved when he heard Bella¡¯s words. He thought she didn¡¯t want to stay there again because that house had many sad memories.


    "Bella, I¡¯m sorry to inform you late about my mother," Tristan said, trying to appear calm when telling her about what had happened to his mother recently.


    "What happened to her?" Bella asked curiously. Still vivid in her mind a few days ago, her mother-in-law shamelessly asked her to leave Tristan. She offered her money, property, and much more if she was willing to do so.


    But after the restaurant incident, Tristan never talked about his mother again, as if he thought that topic was something they should not talk about. That¡¯s why she felt worried about asking him.


    Likewise, Grandpa Lewis and her father-in-law never once talked about Jessica, even though she knew Tristan would have told them.


    "My father divorced her," Tristan said softly. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella had already imagined this would happen, but she was still surprised and felt sorry for Tristan.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan, for what happened to your family," she held his hand, trying to comfort him.


    "It¡¯s fine, dear. She did something outrageous and beyond sensible reason. Even though I was disappointed and sorry for her, I couldn¡¯t say anything to defend her."


    Bella said nothing but smiled at him lovingly.


    "And now, she is staying in a secluded place with two of her maids. My Grandpa and father also asked her never to come to this city; they only allowed her to stay there. And they also warned her never to appear before you and Dax," Tristan paused as he gently caressed her soft, cold cheek.


    "So, we don¡¯t have to worry about my mother coming to visit us if we move back to our old house," he said with a smile. "Are you still reluctant to move?"


    Bella shook her head. "No, I¡¯m glad to return there. The scenery and the air are better than this place," she said.


    "Thank you, Bella." Tristan couldn¡¯t help but be happy. "I¡¯m also concerned about the safety of this place, and I worry that the incident in the restaurant might happen again since a few people already know we are staying in this area, and you are my wife."


    Tristan didn¡¯t tell her about his suspicions regarding the underground organization, the Dark Skull, who tried to dig up information about her. He worries she will be frightened.


    "I agree with you, Hubby. I am also concerned about your father and Grandpa; it would be hard for them to travel here every day," Bella said, turning to see William and Lewis Sinclair by the lake.


    Bella was most worried about her father-in-law, whose health was getting worse every day. It would be difficult for him to visit as he would have to drive forty minutes to reach their place.


    "Alright, we will be moving in a few days, so we¡¯ll have plenty of time to prepare for Dax¡¯s birthday party," Tristan said excitedly. This was the first time he would celebrate his son¡¯s birthday.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but smile at his delighted expression.


    "I will follow your plan, Mr. Sinclair. You have my full confidence," she playfully responded.


    Tristan didn¡¯t say anything but hugged her tightly, rested his head on her neck, and inhaled her unique scent. She giggled when he kissed her neck.


    Bella didn¡¯t push him away; she enjoyed sitting in his lap and watching Dax fish with his Grandpa and Great-grandpa. Seeing the three of them together made her feel warm inside.


    A few moments later, Tristan¡¯s voice interrupted Bella¡¯s thoughts.


    "How are our baby twins inside? Have they been giving you trouble?" he asked with concern.


    Bella turned to see him again.


    "I¡¯m surprised. They behave. I¡¯m not experiencing nausea or any other pregnancy trouble like when I carried Dax, so I feel grateful. But they trouble me with food. I need to eat every hour," she chuckled.


    "Oh, really?" Tristan was relieved. "About food, is there any specific food you want?"


    He had read an article about pregnant mothers who usually want to eat something unique. With his wife now pregnant, he wants nothing else but to fulfill her wishes, including any unique foods she craves.


    "Nope. I¡¯m fine with any food."


    While Bella and Tristan were talking about her pregnancy, suddenly, Geoffrey appeared behind Tristan and asked him for a time to speak.


    Tristan could tell from Geoffrey¡¯s expression that something was bothering him.

 Chapter 490: Moving Day To The Old House

    Tristan nodded at Geoffrey before excusing himself to Bella.


    "I¡¯m sorry, I need to go. There¡¯s something important I need to talk about with Geoffrey. I will ask Noora to come and accompany you..." He feels terrible for leaving her alone.


    "It¡¯s fine, Tristan. But no need to ask Noora to accompany me. I feel sleepy now; I want to go upstairs to nap."


    "Alright, let me walk you upstairs," Tristan smiled and walked her to their bedroom before rushing to his home office.


    When Tristan entered his home office, he saw Reid sitting there with his unusual nervous expression.


    Reid stood up to greet him. "Boss, I¡¯m sorry to bother you on the weekend," he said in a polite tone that failed to hide the anxiety in his eyes.


    "It¡¯s alright. I know you won¡¯t bother my weekend unless it¡¯s urgent. What is it?" Tristan asked as he took a seat across from Reid. He knew that if Reid had hurried to his house, there was news that couldn¡¯t be discussed over the phone.


    "It¡¯s about our investigation of the Dark Rose Club," Reid said, pausing briefly as he noticed Tristan¡¯s calm expression slowly turning dark.


    He added, "We have confirmed that the person following Madam is connected to Dark Skull. Mad Dog has resurfaced, sir!"


    Reid was unable to hide his worry as he confirmed their suspicions. The person they had been investigating led them to their old formidable enemy, The Dark Skull gangster. Their leader¡¯s name was Mad Dog, or some people call him Marco.


    However, even though they know his name, they never see his real face. Marco always disguises himself when he appears in public.


    Reid waited for Tristan to respond, but several minutes passed without a word. Instead, Tristan looked outside, lost in thought.


    He continued to report, "We are now focused on monitoring the remaining members of Dark Skull in areas associated with the Dark Rose Club. I hope we will have results in a few days because we now have a clear goal. We know that these people are hiding under a new name."


    Tristan finally returned his gaze to Reid and instructed, "Understood. You can prepare the main team. We need them to take action as we did a few years ago. I need to call my contact in the military. They need to be informed about this. Marco resurfacing could be a threat to our nation."


    "Consider it done, sir!" Reid was about to leave, but Tristan stopped him.


    "I will be moving out of this house in a few days. You need to talk to Geoffrey about assigning people to guard my old house. I want it completely secured and impenetrable," Tristan said.


    "Yes, Boss, I will discuss and execute it with Geoffrey immediately," Reid responded. He was already aware of the plan and had everything prepared.


    Tristan then discussed more details about his family¡¯s security team with Reid. He also asked Reid to guard a few members of his and Bella¡¯s family in another city. He was concerned that Mad Dog might target them.


    After Reid left his office, Tristan didn¡¯t leave immediately. He made a few phone calls to his military friend who had helped him in the past and discussed their plan to clean up this threat.


    He only left his office when Geoffrey came to inform him about dinner time.


    Taken aback, he looked at the now dark sky; he had spoken too long with his old friend.


    Only the three of them were in the dining room tonight, as Lewis and William had already left for their own houses.


    Tristan joined them after he adjusted his expression. He didn¡¯t show his anxiety about what was happening out there to Bella.


    "Everything is alright?" Bella asks Tristan when he sits beside her.


    Tristan gently stroked her back before leaning closer and whispering, "Nothing to worry about. I need you to hurry to eat; we don¡¯t want the twins to protest again." He smiled at her before focusing on his son.


    He started eating while having a light chat with Dax, occasionally putting a few slices of grilled steak on Bella¡¯s plate and pretending not to notice her doubts.


    Many things were on Tristan¡¯s mind, but he tried not to show them, especially to Bella. He doesn¡¯t want her getting unnecessarily stressed.


    ***


    The moving day finally arrived. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lewis Sinclair was the most excited about the moving day. Early in the morning, he had already come to Tristan and Bella¡¯s residence, ready to welcome them.


    "When are they coming?" Lewis asked, looking at his son, William Sinclair, sitting opposite him.


    "Father, would you mind being more patient? You¡¯ve asked about it ten times. I will tell you when they come, okay? Please, no need to ask again." William Sinclair calmly and patiently said.


    William Sinclair felt amused as he looked at his father, who acted like a boy waiting for his present to arrive.


    Lewis cleared his throat, ignoring William¡¯s words. He sat restlessly, looking outside, eager to be the first to know when Bella and Dax arrived.


    Not long after, Alan, his butler, informed them that Tristan¡¯s car had crossed the gate.


    Lewis Sinclair rushed to the main door, followed by William.


    ...


    "Mom, look, there are Grandpa and Great-Grandpa," Dax, excited in the car, saw them outside. "Why are they here? Are they going to live with us?" he asked innocently.


    Bella smiled on hearing his words.


    "No, they will not live with us. But we are moving near their house, just like Grandpa Isaac¡¯s house, in our old house. You can visit their house anytime you want."


    "Wow! That sounds great."


    "Hmm, you have a huge place to explore in this area. You will like it," Bella said.


    "Alright, let¡¯s get off," Tristan said as he stopped the car near the main door. Then, he immediately stepped out and opened the door for them.


    Within seconds, Dax was no longer visible; he had entered the house with his two grandfathers right by his side.


    Meanwhile, Bella stood in her place, looking around the house¡¯s front yard to recollect her memories of the house. She noticed that not much had changed.


    Being in this place made her feel like she had been transported to the past, but now, she no longer felt afraid or uncomfortable being here. Everything was different now, with Tristan standing beside her, protecting her, and loving her unconditionally.


    "Welcome back, my dear love¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s words seemed to pull Bella out of her thoughts. She turned to look at him and went inside, following his lead while holding hands.

 Chapter 491: Another Surprise Struck Her

    Bella and Tristan didn¡¯t see Dax in the living room.


    Instead, she saw Geoffrey coming inside and informing her that Lewis and William Sinclair were now showing the house to Dax.


    Bella chuckled, dismissed Geoffrey, and walked to Tristan, who was already waiting for her by the stairs to go upstairs.


    "Let¡¯s see our bedroom, dear," Tristan said as he held out his hand to hold hers.


    Bella followed him calmly, but her heartbeat raced. After so many years, she finally returned to the room that held many beautiful and unhappy memories for her. She tried to forget the sad memories since she knew they would return to this house. Now, in her mind, only good things remained.


    "Are you ready to see our bedroom?" Tristan gently touched her shoulder. He smiled when he noticed how nervous she was.


    "Yes. I¡¯m ready¡ª" Bella¡¯s words stopped when she was suddenly in Tristan¡¯s arms. He carried her.


    "Think of this as our first time entering our bedroom..." Tristan whispered lovingly near her ear, causing her to blush.


    She said nothing but put her arms around Tristan¡¯s neck while looking at the room, which now looked different from the bedroom in her memories.


    She used this room alone in the past, but now they will share it. All the furniture is new and more modern, with Tristan¡¯s stuff in some places. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There is a massive bed with white sheets in the middle of the room, a modern sofa in the corner near the grand and vast glass wall, and a veranda overlooking the city below. The night view from this place would be amazing because it is on a mountain with an unobstructed city view.


    After Tristan put her down, Bella slowly walked to check the walk-in closet. Her heart tightened when she saw her old things were still well-maintained.


    What was different was that there was a particular area for Tristan¡¯s clothes. Not much had changed; only the ornaments and paint colors were now dominant with earth-tone colors.


    "How is it? Do you like it?" Tristan asked, leaning casually on the door frame and smiling at her.


    "Hmm, I like it. Thank you for keeping all of this for me," she said, her heart touched. Everything Tristan said to her when he chased her to get back together was proven. This man, indeed, started to love her after she left this house. He keeps all her things.


    She rushed to approach him and wrapped her hand around him. "I love you, Tristan Sinclair."


    A proud smile appears on his lips before he responds, "I love you more, Arabella Donovan. And you know that!" He wrapped his arms around her.


    They hugged each other for a while until Bella remembered something and loosened her embrace, surprising him.


    "Is there anything you want to ask?" he asked, slightly worried, looking at her curious expression.


    "About the connecting door?" Bella said. She left the walk-in closet and looked at the door that could only be opened one way. The door was still there, and her curiosity kicked in again.


    "Tristan, can I see your bedroom?"


    Tristan stared at her without speaking, as if he wanted to protest her words.


    Bella corrected her sentence, realizing she had asked him wrongly. "I mean, I want to see the room behind that door."


    "Are you curious about what¡¯s in there?" Tristan held her hand and led her to the door. "You can try to open it yourself if you¡¯re curious."


    "How can I open it if this door is locked? Only you know the door¡¯s PIN."


    Tristan chuckled.


    "Now, I¡¯m sure you never tried to open it. Because if you tried, you could get in there."


    "What do you mean?" Bella asked as she returned her gaze to the digital lock on the door.


    In the past, Bella had wanted to enter a random number several times to see Tristan¡¯s room out of curiosity, but she never dared to do it. She was worried that Tristan would find out she entered his room without permission.


    "Try entering any number that comes to your mind," Tristan said.


    "How many numbers?"


    "Four¡ª" Tristan replied.


    Though confused, Bella followed his instructions. However, her hand hesitated before she pressed the number she had in mind.


    ¡¯It must be his birthday, right?¡¯ Bella thought. She smiled at him before pressing 1125¡ªhis birthday was November 25.


    "Huh!? Why did it fail?" Bella asked, looking confused. "Tristan, didn¡¯t you use your birthday?"


    Tristan only responded with a small smile as he touched her shoulder.


    "Try another number," he encouraged her.


    Bella¡¯s eyes widened as a number came to her mind. "No way!" She immediately pressed the number 1120.


    The sound of the door opening was heard, making Bella gasp in surprise. She never imagined that Tristan would use the connecting door password with her birth date and month.


    "Have you been using this number after we married or just now?" Bella asked curiously.


    "Mrs. Sinclair, I¡¯m not as good as you are regarding numbers. That number is the easiest for me to remember. And yes, I started using it after we got married."


    She no longer asked anything but threw herself into his arms.


    "I feel so stupid. If only I had tried, I wouldn¡¯t need to be curious..." She wanted to laugh at herself.


    "Alright, let¡¯s see our new home office," Tristan said, changing the subject, not wanting her to feel sad.


    The room Tristan used as a bedroom is now converted into a shared home office for him and Bella. The home office exudes an elegant, old-school charm, featuring vintage and luxury elements.


    The room is dominated by classic wooden furniture, with dark black accents contrasting with warm nuances.


    The shelves, large wooden tables, and luxurious armchairs are designed with intricate details, showcasing timeless craftsmanship. Gold-themed decorations, such as ornate picture frames, desk accessories, and light fixtures, give the room a luxurious feel.


    A bookshelf in the corner near the cozy set of sofas, with a view of the mountains behind the house.


    "What do you think about this room? Do you like it?"


    "I do. I also have a space to work," Bella said, pointing to her desk near the book collection opposite Tristan¡¯s desk. "And, I could accompany you to work. I like it!"


    "I¡¯m glad you like it¡ª"


    Tristan couldn¡¯t continue his words as he saw Reid¡¯s incoming call.

 Chapter 492: Mad Dog! We Finally Found You

    Tristan couldn¡¯t continue speaking as he saw Reid¡¯s incoming call. He walked over to Bella, who looked at him with a slight frown.


    "What is it, Tristan? Who¡¯s calling?" Bella asked anxiously.


    "Dear, something happened at the office. I¡¯m so sorry I can¡¯t accompany you on the room tour," he said with a sorry smile. "I need to take this call from Reid. If you don¡¯t mind?"


    Bella smiled and nodded, "Of course not. Please go ahead. I won¡¯t bother you; I¡¯ll look for Dax¡­" She said as she tiptoed and kissed his cheek.


    "I¡¯ll look for you after I finish this call."


    "Hmm, no worries... take your time, hubby," she said, closing the door.


    After Tristan saw Bella leave the room, he called Reid back as he stood by the glass window. His calm, loving expression was no longer there as he heard Reid¡¯s voice from the other end.


    "Boss, we found their base camp. But we are not yet making a move. We wait for your instruction."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t hide his excitement hearing Reid¡¯s words. A relieved smile finally appeared on his lips. ¡¯Mad Dog! We finally found you!¡¯


    After many years, they will finally settle this matter and capture those Dark Skull gang leaders, especially Mad Dog!


    "You can make a move tonight, Reid. The faster we capture them, the better," he instructed. "But you have to make sure there is no failure! Capture them tonight and report to me anything¡ª"


    "Yes, sir! I¡¯ll try my best," Reid said. He was experiencing the same tension as Tristan. Today, all of this will come to an end.


    Reid continued, "Oh, right, sir. Mr. Murphy has already called me; he said he would assist us in an ambush if we find the Dark Skull¡¯s base. So I will contact him and report about it to make a sudden plan."


    "Good! I¡¯ll also call him."


    Tristan smiled as he thought about his best friend, Owen Murphy, the Black Eagle special force leader and Sam¡¯s former boss. Owen had helped him wipe out the Dark Skull¡¯s businesses in the country years ago.


    This time, he will ensure they don¡¯t fail again to capture all of them and won¡¯t give them time to revive and cause a threat to society.


    "Anything else to report?" Tristan asked as he heard nothing from Reid. But he also did not end the phone call.


    "No, sir, but¡ª" A hesitation could be heard from the other end, causing Tristan to worry that something was still troubling Reid.


    "What is it, Reid?" Tristan asked.


    "Sir, I just want to ask you: Do you want to join us tonight? I know we could handle the entire ambush without you. But with your presence, I can guarantee we won¡¯t fail this time," Reid voiced his thoughts.


    He knew for sure how talented Tristan was in fighting, shooting, and making tactical plans for them to ambush; he was more capable of being a military leader than the president of a large corporation.


    And Tristan being with them tonight would lift the team¡¯s mood. Besides, Reid looked forward to seeing him in action after many years of working behind his office desk.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer Reid immediately, but he didn¡¯t reject him either. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Deep down in his heart, Tristan wanted to join them, but the risk was that getting injured would cause massive damage to the company. He also had a woman he loved and a family to protect. He must be careful in his actions.


    After thinking for a while, Tristan took a deep breath before responding to Reid. "I¡¯ll let you know later if I join. Just let me know when you guys move and send the coordinates to Geoffrey. I might come with him if I decide."


    "Yes, sir! I will¡ª" Reid¡¯s excited answer caused Tristan to smile faintly.


    After the conversation with Reid ended, Tristan still stood by the window. His anxiety slowly disappeared when he saw Dax walking in the backyard with Bella.


    They walked toward the path to the private mountain his family had owned for nearly a hundred years.


    It was a safe place to hike to the peak without worrying about meeting other people or wild animals. It was the only safe place Tristan could think of for his wife and children to walk without a guard following them.


    Tristan put his phone in his pocket before rushing to join them. He needed to clear his mind before deciding what to do that night.


    ***


    "Yeay! Dad¡¯s here! You finally joined us," Dax shouted excitedly as he saw his father walking toward them.


    Bella also looked back to see Tristan. She smiled at him and reached out her hand to him.


    "Are you done with work?" she asked.


    Tristan held Bella¡¯s hand and leaned closer to kiss her cheek before walking, following Dax.


    "Yes, dear," Tristan answered before looking at his son. "Buddy, let¡¯s go to the peak."


    "Dad, you promised me you wouldn¡¯t work today¡­" Dax stopped his step and turned to face his parents.


    Tristan felt Dax¡¯s words hit his heart like a sharp blow.


    "I¡¯m sorry, buddy. Uncle Reid had trouble at the office, so he asked Daddy a few questions. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t go anywhere now. We¡¯ll play until you¡¯re tired, buddy," he said with a smile.


    "Thank you, Daddy," Dax said and continued walking. He was so excited to explore a new place. He could imagine this place would be where he would train with his teacher, Geoffrey, in the future.


    Bella laughed when she heard them. She looked at Dax.


    "Baby, don¡¯t be mad at your daddy. He already took his day off today."


    "I¡¯m not mad, Mommy," Dax said, running to the peak, following the stone path.


    "Hubby, don¡¯t worry about him. He¡¯s afraid you¡¯ll leave us again and head to your office," Bella tried to lift Tristan¡¯s mood. She could see his gloominess through his eyes.


    "I know. That¡¯s why I feel guilty. I spend so much time outside. I wish I could just pay people to run the company and stay home with you and our child," Tristan said, returning her smile with a faint smile.


    Bella didn¡¯t know how to comfort him about his company.


    "Alright, go talk to him. I¡¯ll stroll to follow you guys. I want to enjoy the scenery," she changed the subject.


    Tristan leaned closer to her and kissed her lips. After his quick kiss, he looked into her eyes and said, "Don¡¯t tire yourself. Go back to the house if you feel tired, alright?"


    "I¡¯m not that weak, hubby," Bella rolled her eyes and pushed him to follow Dax.

 Chapter 493: Geoffrey’s Identity Reveals

    In the middle of the night, Geoffrey stood leaning against the black SUV, occasionally glancing at his watch and the door. He had been waiting for Tristan for a few minutes, but there was still no sign of him coming out.


    Geoffrey wondered if his master had fallen asleep and forgotten they were supposed to leave as planned.


    Another minute passed, but there was still no movement from inside. However, his phone vibrated shortly after, and he saw that Reid was calling.


    He picked up right away.


    "Geoffrey, are you and the Boss joining the mission?" Reid¡¯s curious voice came from the other end.


    "I¡¯m ready but unsure if we will join you. This afternoon, he asked me to be ready at eleven," Geoffrey answered, his eyes returning to the door. "It¡¯s been fifteen minutes, but he still hasn¡¯t come out."


    "No worries, he might come out soon. Besides, we are not moving until after midnight; you guys still have plenty of time to get to this place."


    "Understood!"


    "Alright, man, let me know when you guys move."


    "Sure!" Geoffrey hung up the phone, and simultaneously, the house door opened.


    Geoffrey saw Tristan, in his dark outfit, appear behind the door.


    Although Tristan¡¯s expression appeared calm, Geoffrey could see his master was not in a good mood.


    "Sir, are you sure you will join them?" Geoffrey asked, opening the car door for him. "If you think this is dangerous, we better not go¡ª"


    "With you by my side guarding me, I¡¯m not afraid of danger, Geoffrey. I just feel bad about lying to my wife." He took a deep breath and climbed into the vehicle.


    "Aah..." Geoffrey let out a small sigh before he closed the car door for him and rushed to sit behind the wheel. "Sir, what did you tell your wife where we are going?" he curiously asked.


    After asking that, Geoffrey felt terrible, as Tristan suddenly looked gloomy and perplexed about the question. He saw Tristan from the rearview mirror, leaning closer and closing his eyes.


    "Sorry, sir, forgive my question," Geoffrey said as he smoothly drove the car out of the main gate. After he spotted their team cars now tailing their vehicles, he drove faster, heading to the city border.


    A few moments later, Tristan¡¯s voice finally broke the silence.


    "I told her there was a cybersecurity issue, and Max needed me at the office. So, she was worried something would happen to the company, and she asked me to rush to the office..." Tristan paused to take a deep breath.


    He felt annoyed because he couldn¡¯t be honest with Bella about the danger lurking in their family; his old enemy had returned.


    What worried him was that this news would stress his wife. And at this moment, stress was the last thing he wanted to see in his pregnant wife. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I feel like a bad husband now, Geoffrey. I¡¯ve been one five years ago and vowed to be a better husband since she¡¯s back in my life. So, this is hard for me. But I don¡¯t have the guts to tell her about Dark Skull, and I always imagine she might freak out if she knows."


    Geoffrey glanced at Tristan through the rearview mirror; he could see how troubled Tristan was now.


    "Master, do you mind if I say something?" Geoffrey asked.


    Tristan frowned, "Sure!"


    "I don¡¯t think the young madam would be freaking out. Have you forgotten she has experienced many unpleasant dangers? But she has always managed to face them calmly and has never been traumatized..."


    Geoffrey paused as he focused on the road ahead before continuing.


    "So, I think if you tell her about Mad Dog trying to uncover her identity, she might not freak out. Instead, she might use her resources to help you. You know that the Young Madam has capable friends out there."


    "Hmm, I know. Recently, I discovered that the agency Sentinel Network was part of RDF Group. They are a huge organization; earlier this year, they established a network in this country."


    "True. I talked with Samuel, the young madam¡¯s former bodyguard; he is now leading Sentinel Network. And, the surprising fact I found out, he is actually one of Owen¡¯s former team members. Did you also know about that?"


    "Of course I know." Tristan chuckled. He was continually surprised by the people around Bella. Even her hacker, Stefan, was more powerful than his own hacker, Max.


    "Oh, right, Geoffrey, you never met Sam when you were still active?" Tristan asked curiously.


    He knew Sam was actually on the same team as Owen and Sean, but he was curious about Geoffrey. He didn¡¯t know exactly Geoffrey¡¯s role in the military, but he guessed he might have a high rank because he knew Jayson Spencer¡¯s father.


    "Sir, you know my team is different, right? People address us as ghosts. No one knows our existence except a few higher-ups in the military and the president." A small laugh escaped Geoffrey¡¯s lips as he remembered his past before he retired.


    "Ah, that¡¯s why Sean and Sam don¡¯t know your division?"


    "Yes, they will never know."


    "What about Owen?"


    "Owen Murphy?" Geoffrey quickly glanced at the rearview mirror. Seeing Tristan¡¯s curiosity, he felt no need to hide anything from him. "Well, Owen was my subordinate before he finally had his own team." He explained.


    Tristan pondered for a moment, looking outside after hearing Geoffrey¡¯s words. He never thought his butler was so high in the military. His position might be higher than Owen¡¯s if he is still active.


    "Geoffrey, I¡¯m sorry. I feel bad because your talent is being wasted now. You work as my butler and are now my son¡¯s teacher. You should have had a high-flying career in the military if you were still active," Tristan sincerely said as he returned to see Geoffrey driving the car.


    "Well, sir, that¡¯s all in the past when I was a young and bold man. Now, I am old and slow. Besides, I wouldn¡¯t say I like working behind a desk like many commanding officers with old age and injuries. I enjoy my free time working for you and guarding your family," Geoffrey replied casually.


    Talking about his past was enough to make Geoffrey feel slightly melancholy when he remembered he had suffered a severe injury that forced him to end his military career.


    At that time, he was stressed and felt like his life was wasted until finally, Edward Spencer, the founding father of this nation and Sean Spencer¡¯s Grandpa, introduced him to Tristan. Since then, he has worked for Tristan Sinclair.

 Chapter 494: Ambush Plan

    Tristan chuckled upon hearing Geoffrey respond.


    "Geoffrey, I¡¯m pretty sure you could kill someone with just one move, right?" He glances at him.


    "Same goes for you, sir! Even though you only trained with the military for a short time, you are a born fighter. If you had joined the military and built your career there, you might have had a bright future there."


    "Yeah, if only I had a brother. I probably wouldn¡¯t have chosen this path, becoming a businessman and taking over the family business. I don¡¯t like it, but I don¡¯t have a choice, Geoffrey," Tristan said, smiling bitterly.


    He never wanted to become the CEO of Sinclair Group. He would rather live carefree without such broad spans of responsibility hanging on his shoulders.


    While Tristan and Geoffrey conversed about their past, the car finally approached the location.


    The two of them stopped talking because the tension in the car was getting worse. Not long after, the vehicle stopped near a few black cars parked in a hidden place.


    They waited a mile in the woods before moving to the villa to avoid alerting people around it. However, Reid had already positioned a few spotters near the house.


    Tristan smiled as he recognized his old friend, Owen Murphy, among them.


    From a distance, Tristan could see Owen¡¯s surprise upon seeing him¡ªwell, unbeknownst to Tristan, he wasn¡¯t startled to see him but rather to see the man beside him, Geoffrey.


    "Tristan Sinclair, long time no see. How do you know him?" Owen asked, tearing his gaze from Geoffrey to Tristan, but it was only a second before he looked back at Geoffrey again.


    Instead of answering him, Tristan asked, "You know him?" pretending not to know the story he heard from Geoffrey earlier.


    "Of course, I know him," Owen said before continuing to walk, stopping a few steps before Geoffrey. "I thought you were living in seclusion. You never even showed up at our old comrade reunion. No one could contact you. How did you appear here?" he asked, warmly embracing his old leader.


    "Nice to meet you too, Owen. It¡¯s a long story for another time," Geoffrey accepts Owen¡¯s warm embrace. Then, he takes a few steps back before continuing, "But to put it simply, the man beside me is my Master."


    Owen¡¯s jaw dropped upon hearing that. How could his former military leader, Geoffrey, now call Tristan Sinclair his master?


    "Wow! Serious¡ª"


    "General Murphy," Tristan interrupted Owen. I know you guys are old pals, but can you put aside your reunion? We have pressing matters here," he reminded them.


    "Sorry, Tristan," Owen responds, chuckling when he sees Tristan seems annoyed but ignores him. "It¡¯s nice to meet you again, sir!" he smiles at Geoffrey.


    Not wanting to prolong the conversation, Geoffrey corrects him, "I¡¯m not your leader anymore, Owen. I¡¯m a commoner now." He insists that Owen not address him formally. "And my master was right. We better focus¡ª"


    Geoffrey and Owen chat like old friends at a reunion, which shocks Reid and the others. They didn¡¯t expect a military leader like Owen Murphy to refer to Geoffrey as a leader.


    "Sir, who is Geoffrey, by the way?" Reid whispers to Tristan, unable to contain his curiosity any longer. He can¡¯t help but stare at Geoffrey.


    Tristan frowns as he looks at Reid. "Did you forget? He¡¯s my butler and Dax¡¯s martial arts teacher. Why are you asking again?"


    Reid was speechless, looking at his boss, who deliberated¡ªdidn¡¯t want to answer him.


    "Alright, let me hear your plan," Tristan says, ignoring Reid and the others¡¯ curious gazes. He wants to wrap this up quickly and return home to cuddle his pretty wife. He doesn¡¯t want to worry her.


    "Yes, sir."


    Reid slowly returned to his usual self and focused on his goals. He took an iPad from his subordinates and started explaining it to Tristan. At the same time, Geoffrey and Owen came near him to hear the plan.


    "This big villa has three exits with tight security. They also have sophisticated CCTV throughout the area, complete with motion detection. But don¡¯t worry, someone will take over their CCTV cameras once we move, so that¡¯s not a problem."


    Reid quickly glanced at Tristan and the others, checking their expressions before continuing, "The problem is that they have trained German Shepherds dogs throughout the area. But don¡¯t worry; we also have an expert from General Owen¡¯s team who will make them sleep while our team enters the villa." He smiles.


    Tristan listened to Reid¡¯s explanation in silence, but his eyes were fixed on the villa¡¯s layout on the iPad. He could see that no buildings were within a radius of several miles from the area. It was utterly remote, a private area that no one could enter except the landowner.


    Even if they were to make a move to approach the villa, they couldn¡¯t bring cars close until they could take over the CCTV and silence the guards on duty, along with the guard dogs, to avoid triggering the alarm and waking up all the people inside the villa.


    "There are around sixty people in the villa and area near that place, not including the Dark Skull leader. According to our spotter and spy, who is now inside the villa, there are four senior leaders, including Mad Dog. The plan is that we will enter all three entryways..." Reid continued to explain.


    After a few more minutes, he was finally done and looked at Tristan and Geoffrey¡ªthe only ones who didn¡¯t know their plan.


    "Any questions, sir?" Reid asked Tristan.


    Tristan pointed to a specific place on the iPad with pictures of the building, and he could see the small path leading to the forest.


    "This is a hiking path to the mountain, but according to our informants, it is no longer used. The road has been closed off. No one can get through. They use this way instead," Reid answered.


    "I see," Tristan responded softly before looking at Reid and Owen. "You guys can make a move. I won¡¯t get involved with your plan. I will just stay behind and watch." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, sir!" Reid nodded and began giving orders to the entire team. He briefed them again before they disappeared into the darkness.

 Chapter 495: Bloody Fight At Dark Skull Headquarters (1)

    Reid nodded and began giving orders to the entire team. He briefed them again before they disappeared into the darkness.


    Owen stayed behind with Tristan and Geoffrey. He would remain in the control room to lead the operation from there.


    After the team separated and headed in different directions as ordered, Tristan turned to see Geoffrey as he received a gun from him.


    Tristan casually checked the bullets while glancing at Owen. "How many soldiers do you have today?" he asked.


    "Fifty, but there are backup teams near and surrounding the two main roads a few miles from here. Our backups have plenty of soldiers to envelop the area if anyone manages to escape our assault."


    "I see. You made a good decision," Tristan said briefly. Then he looked at Geoffrey again, surprised to see he was ready but had not brought any weapon. "You didn¡¯t bring a gun?" he asked, confused.


    "Tristan, Geoffrey doesn¡¯t need a gun. He¡¯s a martial arts master, and his mind is his deadliest weapon," Owen said, tapping Tristan¡¯s shoulder casually as he stood beside him. Then he looked at Geoffrey. "Don¡¯t underestimate my former leader; just with his gaze, he could send someone to nothingness."


    Geoffrey rolled his eyes. Ignoring Owen¡¯s excessive praise, he asked Tristan, "Master, shall we go to that place?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What place?" Owen asked curiously. But Tristan and Geoffrey didn¡¯t answer him.


    They walked and vanished into the dark, leaving Owen to shake his head and chuckle.


    Owen didn¡¯t rush to leave his place. Still, he scanned his surroundings to ensure everyone was already moving before he walked a few meters toward a black van¡ªtheir mobile control room¡ªwith two heavily armed men guarding the car.


    He entered the van after responding to their formal greeting with slight nods. Two men were inside the temporary control room: his subordinate and Max.


    Owen approached his man while looking at almost a hundred small videos on the flat screen¡ªthey controlled the CCTV from the villa.


    Max didn¡¯t focus on the military camera. Instead, he focused on his three laptops in front of him, each equipped with multiple-screen cameras embedded in Reid and the others¡¯ bodies, including Tristan and Geoffrey.


    He saw more than forty small screens, all showing live recordings with sound from the microphones. He could choose whose microphone he wanted to listen to.


    For a moment, Max observed Tristan and Geoffrey. Still, when he saw them casually walking away from the villa, the view turning to darkness, he ignored them. He then shifted his attention to a few men who had arrived at the entrance.


    Without any difficulty, the five guards at the three main gates lost consciousness after being hit by sleeping bullets. No Shepherd Dog was present; Max could see a few of them now sleeping, having been given anesthesia.


    Everything happened so quickly; within a matter of minutes, the three entrances were smoothly locked down and secured without alerting anyone inside the villa.


    Everyone in the house was now sound asleep, and only a few people in certain places were still awake or even making love to their loved one or maybe a whore.


    "I will head to the main target on the third floor, and the others will follow the plan." Reid¡¯s commanding voice suddenly reached everyone on the team when he used a public channel to communicate with everyone.


    Max focused his attention on Reid. He saw him in his black tactical suit, with his gun, entering the house through the main door. Five men followed him.


    He felt tense and worried that something was not right with this mission. While waiting for Reid to approach the third floor, he looked at Tristan and Geoffrey¡¯s camera, which showed a path toward the mountain. The place had limited light, so that he couldn¡¯t see much.


    Max couldn¡¯t even hear what they were discussing as he noticed the mic turned off.


    ¡¯What are they doing there? Why did they move away from the house?¡¯ Max wondered, then went back to look at Reid¡¯s live video.


    ***


    Inside the building,


    As Reid entered the building and advanced toward his target, he began to receive reports from the teams about their successful efforts in capturing their targets. Instead of killing the gangsters, they used drugs to make them sleep.


    Walking through the large living room, which had dim lighting and no occupants in sight, they proceeded to climb the stairs.


    Reid whispered, "Status?" as he activated his mic to communicate with the control room and waited in the shadows.


    "The third floor is clear. You may proceed," Owen¡¯s voice came through.


    Reid swiftly moved to the third floor, now accompanied by five of his men, and two soldiers joined him.


    They reached the middle of the long corridor on the third floor effortlessly.


    However, they did not move right away to check the room.


    Reid scanned his surroundings.


    The only light in the corridor came from small yellow lamps in several spots above the high ceiling. Only this floor had no CCTV installed. There are a total of eight doors; four doors are on the left and right.


    A few seconds later, Reid made a hand signal asking the others to split up and ensure they didn¡¯t make a fuss to alert whoever was inside the room.


    He knew this third floor as the resting place for the Dark Skull leaders and also their women. This was his main target: to capture Mad Dog!


    Reid moved to the door at the end of the corridor. Some of his team members had already disappeared as they entered the other rooms to ambush.


    However, before Reid could open the door before him, gunshots were suddenly heard from downstairs.


    "What the heck! Who¡¯s shooting?" Reid silently cursed.


    He instantly pressed his back against the wall near his target door and tried to listen for any movement inside the room.


    But all he could hear was the increasing sound of gunshots from downstairs. And from the sound of it, he knows it¡¯s the enemy shooting.


    They must¡¯ve been exposed.

 Chapter 496: Bloody Fight At Dark Skull Headquarters (2)

    They must¡¯ve been exposed.


    Owen¡¯s voice and the others distracted him through the communication device.


    "Team B, guard the door. Don¡¯t let anyone escape our encirclement!" Owen¡¯s voice came through the public channel.


    "Yes, sir!"


    "Team D is in the kitchen, with two armed men inside. Take them down, but be careful!"


    "Team C, assist Team E on the second floor!"


    "Team A!? Report your status?"


    "Five rooms cleared. Three rooms left..." Reid answered Owen when he saw that his team had already given him a clear sign after they had captured their target.


    Reid kicked open the door in a split second, but to his surprise, the bedroom was dark and empty.


    He hurriedly checked the room, gun in hand, prepared to shoot anyone inside.


    However, he stopped in his tracks when he saw the perfectly made bed with no signs of anyone using it.


    "Clear!" he shouted, dashing out to assist in another room. He encountered several men standing outside the next room.


    "What¡¯s going on?" Reid asked as he hurried toward them.


    "Someone escaped through the window, sir!" one of them replied.


    "And why are you still here?" he asked, displeased. He was about to rush toward the open window but paused when the man responded.


    "Two men are already pursuing that person, Sir¡ª"


    Reid looked at the open window. He felt relieved and turned to them as he inquired, "How many people did you find?"


    "Total of six, four men and two women."


    After hearing their report, Reid instructed two people to detain them in one room. He asked the rest to assist another team on the second floor, where the gunfire had started.


    As he watched them depart, Reid immediately opened his secure line to make a call.


    "Max, someone escaped through the third-floor window. Please track that person. I think that person might be their leader. You know who¡ª"


    "Got it! I will track him."


    Reid said nothing as he heard the sound of a keyboard from the other end; he knew Max must be working now.


    He ended the call and walked toward the people they captured to see if Mad Dog or his leaders were among them.


    When Reid entered the room, he was shocked to find them sleeping almost naked, including two women, wearing only something that covered their intimate parts.


    "Damn it! Can you guys cover them!?" Reid snapped as he glanced at his two men standing at the door.


    Immediately, one rushed to the bed, pulled the blanket, and covered all of them.


    "Sorry, sir¡ª" The man slightly bowed and returned to his place near the door.


    After seeing their bodies covered up to the neck, Reid walked closer to the bed. He tried to check whether they could capture the Dark Skull sub-leader they had been looking for.


    Reid only needed a few minutes to recognize that these three men were indeed sub-leaders of Dark Skull. He remembered their faces from the list they had to trace them all.


    Even though they caught the three people they were looking for, Reid showed no joy or satisfaction because he was sure there was no Mad Dog among the four men in the room¡ªhe knew for sure Mad Dog had a tattoo from his neck down to his chest.


    One man went undetected. He was probably a regular member sleeping on this floor, or he might have been a new guy working his way up the ranks.


    He dismissed his curiosity and returned to their primary target, Mad Dog. However, remembering Mad Dog, his anger flared.


    ¡¯Damn it! If we miss him again, it will be a real pain!¡¯ Reid couldn¡¯t help but vent his frustration in his heart.


    Now Reid was more convinced that the man who escaped was Mad Dog.


    Reid hurried down to the second floor to assist, but the gunfire had ceased when he arrived. Instead, he found some of his men and military personnel wounded and receiving medical help.


    He quickly made his way to the first floor to assess the escape route. Still, as he was about to leave the building, he noticed several cars entering the villa area. His steps halted.


    The command center vehicle stopped at a distance, and Owen rushed over to him.


    "Reid, are you okay?"


    "I¡¯m fine. However, some men are injured inside, and we also have a person who managed to escape," Reid explained to Owen. He needed to speak to Max about contacting Tristan and Geoffrey.


    "I¡¯m aware. Max briefed me already. They are attempting to locate the individual using CCTV, but it seems that person is aware of the blind spots, leaving no trace of him on record. I¡¯ve instructed my team to track him down," Owen explained.


    Reid couldn¡¯t hide how disappointed he was now.


    "I suspect it¡¯s Mad Dog!"


    "Damn it! Have we lost him again?"


    "Likely. However, we have his trusted person upstairs. You can investigate them. They might know much about him." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ***


    Meanwhile, a tall man in a black robe with nothing under his feet dashed through the hidden stone path leading to the woods behind the villa.


    He ran faster while holding his gun. When he thought no one could detect his escape route, suddenly, a man appeared a few meters ahead of him.


    ¡¯Fuck! They also post someone here?¡¯ He cursed and pointed the gun at the man.


    He couldn¡¯t see his face, but judging by how calm he was, he knew this man¡ªone of the people who ambushed their base camp.


    "Who are you? Block my way, and I¡¯ll blow your head off!" He hissed irritably while pointing his gun, his eyes sharp, trying to see his face, but the limited light made it impossible.


    When he saw the man move forward instead of moving away, it shocked him. Tightening his grip on the gun, he snapped, "What the hell are you doing? You want me to blow your head off?"


    He wanted to shoot him but was worried the gunfire would attract people.


    "Show your face, or I¡¯ll shoot..." his voice faded when he saw the man¡¯s face. "T-Tristan Sinclair¡ª"

 Chapter 497: Bloody Fight At Dark Skull Headquarters (3)

    "T-Tristan Sinclair?" His voice shook. He knew this man for sure. They were mortal enemies. "So you are the one who attacked our base?" he continued to ask, feeling his anger spike.


    Tristan ignored the man¡¯s question. Instead, he asked, "Why the rush?" as he moved forward, shortening the distance between them. He stopped a few steps from him, ignoring the gun still pointed toward his head.


    The man clenched the gun even tighter, cursing Tristan Sinclair repeatedly in his mind when he saw how calm he remained, even though he had threatened him.


    Since yesterday, he had been suspicious about why two of his members, who were being held captive by Tristan Sinclair, were suddenly released. Even though his people did not directly come to their main villa, Tristan Sinclair still found them in this secluded place.


    He had predicted this would happen and planned to relocate their entire base tomorrow. Still, he hadn¡¯t anticipated Tristan Sinclair would attack them much earlier. Now, he regretted not acting by following his instincts.


    "How do you know this path?" he asked, curiosity flooding him. This was a hidden path that only he and a few high-ranking leaders knew about. Even the entryway was well hidden.


    He had been too confident that no one could trail or trace him here. After all, once he got to this ultra-hidden path, he only needed to walk a few miles behind the mountain before finding the stand-by car they had deliberately parked for emergencies like this, allowing them to escape from their pursuers.


    Tristan chuckled, his sharp eyes locking onto the man. He hadn¡¯t seen his photo on the list of the most wanted leaders of Dark Skull. Still, finding him here made Tristan strongly suspect that this man was either Marco¡¯s most trusted lieutenant or perhaps Marco himself.


    "You think of yourself slick¡­but the truth is you are predictable. That¡¯s why you can¡¯t escape me once you come into my sights," Tristan taunted.


    The man gritted his teeth, feeling all his blood rush to his face, consumed by anger towards Tristan Sinclair.


    "I¡¯ll finish you tonight, Tristan Sinclair. I don¡¯t care if your people hear the gunshot and encircle this place. I don¡¯t care anymore. At least I can drag you down to hell with me!" A wicked smile appeared on his lips as he slowly squeezed the trigger.


    "Wait!"


    "Hahaha," the man laughed sarcastically when he heard Tristan asking him to stop.


    "Tristan Sinclair, are you afraid of me now? Tsk! Tsk! I thought you were brave enough to die by my hand and come here alone. Fine, fine, move aside. I don¡¯t have time to play with you.


    I¡¯ll give you one last chance to escape your death. You¡¯d better guard your wife because I¡¯m coming for her next. I¡¯ll take her away from you!"


    Tristan clenched his fists, his anger surging at the man¡¯s threat, but he tried to control his irritation, suppressing the urge to kill him. Instead, he smiled and said, "So you want to kill me?"


    "Mr. Sinclair, if you ask me to, I¡¯d be more than happy to oblige," the man said, feeling impatient as he started to hear movement approaching their position. "Damn it, Tristan Sinclair, move now!"


    A small smile crept across Tristan¡¯s face as he spotted the man¡¯s weakness.


    Tristan moved swiftly, his hand reaching out to grab the man¡¯s arm and twisting it so hard that the sound of bones breaking echoed in the silent night. The man¡¯s roar of pain pierced the silence, and his gun slipped from his hand.


    Tristan snatched the gun out of mid-air before it hit the ground.


    He released the man¡¯s wrist and, in a single fluid motion, stepped back two paces, raising the gun and aiming it at the man¡¯s head. His cold gaze met the man¡¯s, whose face had turned ghostly white as he held his broken wrist, his eyes wide with terror.


    Everything had happened so fast that the man barely understood what had happened. One moment, he was in control; the next, Tristan had disarmed him and pointed his own gun at him.


    "Y-You, how did you move so fast?" the man asked in a trembling voice, too stunned to process that Tristan had taken his gun in an instant.


    A cold smile spread across Tristan¡¯s calm face. "You want to kill me? Well, go ahead¡ªif you think you¡¯ve got the ability."


    The man no longer cared about the searing pain in his wrist. He knew he was finished. With Tristan Sinclair now possessing the gun, any thought of fighting back seemed futile.


    Tristan didn¡¯t bother with more words. He looked in a specific direction and said, "You can handle him. Make him talk," before tossing the gun to Geoffrey, who appeared in the shadows.


    The man¡¯s shock deepened. Only now did he realize Tristan Sinclair wasn¡¯t alone. Another figure had been lurking behind him all along. The man could tell from his presence that this newcomer might be even stronger than Tristan.


    The newcomer kicked him before he could turn to get a better look.


    "On your knees!"


    "Argh!!" The man screamed in agony as the forceful kick sent him crashing to his knees in front of Tristan Sinclair, who stood just a few steps ahead.


    "You don¡¯t have to torture me. I¡¯m not going to say anything, Tristan... Arrgh, damn it..." he growled as the gun struck his skull. He felt like his brain had shattered, and a deafening ring filled his ears, leaving him unable to hear for a moment.


    Internally, he cursed the man who hit him. How dare he strike his head?


    "Speak nonsense again, and you¡¯ll kiss your skull goodbye!" Geoffrey¡¯s cold voice made the man shiver. He pressed his lips together tightly, gritting his teeth as blood began to trickle from the corner of his mouth.


    "What¡¯s your name? How many leaders are there?" Geoffrey demanded. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The man clenched his fists, but before he could resist further, he realized he was out of options.


    "Looks like you¡¯ve accepted your fate, young man. Fine¨C"


    "Four!" the man blurted out.


    "Names?" Geoffrey pressed again.


    Tristan and Geoffrey exchanged glances as the man, his voice trembling, listed several names.


    "And you? What¡¯s your name?" Geoffrey asked once more.

 Chapter 498: Is He Dead?

    "And you? What¡¯s your name?" Geoffrey asked once more.


    The man looks at Tristan with his disgusted smile, slowly framing his lips.


    "You don¡¯t seem to recognize me, Tristan Sinclair¡­ argh¡­" A long groan escaped the man¡¯s lips as the man behind him kicked him hard in the back, causing him to be pushed forward. His unbalanced legs made him stagger and ultimately fall.


    "You have to answer. Don¡¯t lie. And don¡¯t fucking ask back!" Geoffrey said coldly after kicking him hard. He saw that the man had now fallen to the ground with his face kissed on the stone road.


    After the man¡¯s long groan in pain, no words could be heard from him anymore. He didn¡¯t even move.


    Worried that he had kicked him so hard, Geoffrey hurried over and crouched down to examine the man, who was now motionless on the ground.


    "Master, apologize I kicked him so hard. He will probably fall into a coma and die now¡ª" he turns on his cell phone flashlight and directs it to the man¡¯s face.


    Tristan was speechless. This man was so weak that even his wife, Bella, was probably stronger than him.


    "No need to apologize. This man calls himself a gangster leader. But he is so brainless and weak. How can a light kick make him die?"


    Tristan¡¯s words weren¡¯t enough to relieve Geoffrey, as he didn¡¯t want the man to die. Regardless of the man¡¯s identity, he is too vital for his master and Owen to capture him alive. This wicked man would be useless if death.


    When Geoffrey saw dark, fresh blood pooling near the man¡¯s mouth, worry gripped him. He immediately placed his index finger near the man¡¯s ear to check his pulse. After a few seconds, a relieved smile appeared on his lips as he stood up to report to Tristan.


    "He¡¯s not dead or in a coma, Master, but only fainted." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s so incredibly weak for a bad guy his age. If Bella kicked him with all her full power, he might die," Tristan shook his head, amused, looking at the feeble gangster on the ground.


    "You are right, master; this so-called gangster is way too weak. I only used a small fraction of my strength. If your little Dax kicked him like I did, he might faint too," Geoffrey said.


    Tristan gave a proud father smile, hearing Geoffrey praise his son¡¯s strength.


    ***


    While in the Villa.


    Owen, Reid, and several people hurried to follow the route of the fleeing Dark Skull members. However, in the middle, they meet two men who had previously pursued the fleeing man.


    "Did you guys fail to catch him?" Reid asked when he saw them return as the only ones.


    "Yes, sir. Sorry for that. He vanished behind the villa, and we couldn¡¯t find where he actually went. We canvassed several directions from the last point we saw him but found nothing. When we asked the guard stationed at the back entrance, they said they had not seen anyone passing the gate."


    "I think there is a hidden path somewhere around here," Owen says. "Where was the last place you saw him?"


    "Over there, sir."


    Owen and Reid asked the two men to return to help the others in the villa while they advanced to check for the hidden path.


    Reid followed Owen¡¯s lead and communicated with Max in the control room to guide them through the blind spot route. He believed the hidden door leading outside the villa must be in the blind spot of any CCTVs in the area.


    Before long,


    Reid suddenly remembered something after a few minutes of searching in the dark. It¡¯s about the map that caught Tristan¡¯s attention¡ªan abandoned gate in the backyard a few meters from the main building.


    "Damn it! How could I forget?" Reid stopped in his tracks and looked at Owen, who happened to look at him.


    "Forget about what?"


    "Boss Tristan. Earlier, he asked about the old entry gate."


    "An old entry gate?"


    "Yeah, he was asking me about the old entry gate," Reid said without explaining more details as he dashed to the gate. He couldn¡¯t believe he had forgotten about the path; earlier, he thought nothing suspicious about it.


    After a few more minutes, they arrived. The place was indeed a dead end. The thick concrete wall overlapped the old iron door, and no CCTV was installed to cover its area.


    "I don¡¯t like this place. This place is suspicious," Owen said as he tried to find something. Afterward, he asked his people to scatter and check for anything suspicious.


    Owen also asked a few of his men at the back gate to check the location from outside. Although it would take time for them to reach, at least someone could pursue the person who had escaped.


    "Max, are you there?" Reid contacted Max again.


    "Yeah!?"


    "Can you please contact Boss Tristan!"


    "They¡¯ve turned off their communication device. Their live video feed is also off. I¡¯m not sure whether they are now far from my radar or if they deliberately turned it off," Max explained.


    "What the heck, Max? How could that be?"


    "If only I knew the answer, I would tell you, man!" Max took a deep sigh.


    "And why do you sound helpless? Call his cell phone then."


    "He left his cell phone in the car."


    "How about Geoffrey?"


    "Geoffrey was with him the last time I saw Boss Tristan. But Geoffrey¡¯s cell phone can¡¯t be reached," Max answered helplessly. He had already tried to contact them but failed. He now felt worried because the Dark Skull leader, who had escaped, could harm Tristan. His boss was alone with Geoffrey; they brought no guards with them.


    Max and Reid were both worried because they had lost contact with Tristan and Geoffrey.


    "Max, send a few men to their last location. I will also try to reach them," Reid instructed.


    "What¡¯s going on?" Owen asked, pulling Reid away from his concerns.


    "We lost contact with Tristan and Geoffrey. I will try to reach them through the back gate. I¡¯m worried something might happen to them," Reid admitted, unable to conceal his anxiety, which made Owen smile.


    "You really don¡¯t know who Geoffrey is, do you? Don¡¯t worry. As long as Tristan is with him, nothing dangerous or terrible can happen to Tristan. You can trust me," Owen assured him, but then his voice grew faint as he recalled something.

 Chapter 499: Blood Trail!

    "Unless an entire army division equipped with advanced weapons attacks them. Then you can worry. But if it¡¯s just one person or a platoon of soldiers, we have nothing to worry about." Owen continues his words.


    "Alright. I trust you," Reid replied, although his expression revealed his doubts. "But I still need to go look after them even though they are that strong..." he said, tapping Owen¡¯s shoulder before leaving.


    Reid still needed to find his boss for his own peace of mind. He was worried that if something happened to Tristan, his lady boss would kill him for sure.


    At the same time, a soldier, checking the four-meter-high wall covered in vines with barbed wire on top, shouted, "Sir, I found something."


    Owen and the others turned to look at him, including Reid, who stopped walking and turned back toward the wall.


    "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "I found a blood trail. But I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s human or animal blood¡ª"


    "Blood trail?"


    "Yes, sir," the soldier said while pointing his cell phone flashlight at the blood trail.


    "Looks like the person who ran away was in a hurry, so they didn¡¯t wear shoes."


    "Yes, they might have injured his feet without knowing."


    "Find the hidden door now!" Reid said quickly while he was also searching.


    The area was very dark, and they had to rely on the light from their cell phone flashlights.


    After a few more minutes, Owen finally found the hidden door. After opening it successfully, thorny and dense bushes greeted them; only a tiny path could fit one person.


    They struggled through the path, and after a few more minutes, they finally escaped from the thorny bushes.


    Later, they found a stone path. As they walked a few meters away from the villa, they heard human howls coming from the forest, causing Reid and Owen to stop and start running.


    "Damn it! They¡¯re fighting," Reid clenched his teeth as he sprinted toward the source of the howls.


    It didn¡¯t take long for the voices to become louder, and soon they spotted people. But a few meters ahead, Reid and Owen abruptly stopped, causing a few men behind them to stop.


    What happened ahead of them was enough to stun Reid. He saw a man lying motionless on the ground, and what he heard from his master nearly caused him to trip on his own feet.


    "Geoffrey, I can¡¯t believe how weak gangsters are nowadays; they¡¯re nothing like the ones I fought in the past."


    Tristan took a deep sigh as he walked near the man and stepped on the man¡¯s uninjured hand so hard that the sound of breaking bones could be heard.


    Geoffrey asked, "Master, why did you injure his other hand?"


    "I just wanted to make sure this man wasn¡¯t pretending. You know... he might be good at acting too, right?"


    "You¡¯re right, sir."


    Tristan wanted to check whether the man was really unconscious or just faking it. However, after he crushed the man¡¯s wrist, the man didn¡¯t scream or move.


    "Master, what do you want me to do with this man?" asked Geoffrey.


    Tristan didn¡¯t reply. Instead, he frowned and looked in a specific direction.


    "You guys finally came. Why so late? I thought you guys were the best trackers in the world?" Tristan greeted Reid and Owen in a sarcastic tone. He couldn¡¯t believe they had only come now. Why had they stood there without doing anything but watching?


    "Sorry we¡¯re late, Tristan. We were dealing with, unsurprisingly, many unfriendly people inside. I wished they were more cooperative," Owen responded with a slight sarcasm as he approached.


    "Oh my God, is this man dead? Is this Mad Dog?" Reid said as he rushed to check the man lying on the ground.


    "I¡¯ve checked. He¡¯s not dead, just unconscious. Geoffrey hit him not that hard. Well, maybe pretty hard for this weak man," Tristan replied as he saw Reid bend down to check the man.


    "Boss," Reid said after checking the man¡¯s face. He looked at Tristan. "This man is Mad Dog! The tattoo matched our profile. We¡¯re so lucky to have finally captured him." He was sure this man was their primary target.


    "Wrong. He¡¯s not, Mad Dog! Not the real one. Must be his body double." Geoffrey, who stood beside Tristan, answered Reid. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What do you mean, Geoffrey? This man has the exact tattoo as Marco¡¯s..." Reid¡¯s mouth twitched as he turned to look at the motionless man on the ground again. He pointed his cell phone flashlight at the man¡¯s neck and chest.


    "If you check carefully, the tattoo was newly made, and the scars are still fresh and visible. Also, there¡¯s no trace of this man wearing a mask. For someone like Mad Dog, who wears a mask often, there would be skin rashes on his face, but this man doesn¡¯t have any," Geoffrey explained.


    Reid reexamined the man again and agreed with Geoffrey¡¯s assessment.


    "Ah, you¡¯re right, Geoffrey. The tattoo is brand new," Reid said in frustration. "Damn it! I never thought Mad Dog was this slippery. It looks like he¡¯s already prepared several escape plans, including a body double. And he got this guy to get the same tattoo to be his double.


    Fucking smart."


    "Yup! He¡¯s smart," Geoffrey responded.


    Reid took a deep sigh and then turned to look at Owen. "Do you recognize this man? Is he not the guy we are after? Mad Dog?"


    "Yes, this man isn¡¯t Mad Dog, but his right-hand man. We have his profile; his name¡¯s Billy," Owen answered.


    Tristan predicted that the man wasn¡¯t Mad Dog or Marco, but he still felt slightly disappointed after hearing Owen¡¯s confirmation. His expression slowly darkened, and anger flashed in his eyes as he looked at Billy.


    Sighing deeply, he turned his gaze to Owen and Reid.


    "I¡¯ll leave now. Owen, get valuable info from this man. Anything that we can use to track the real Mad Dog. And Reid, help Owen clear this place. Let¡¯s be sure not a single inch and nook and crank in this place was hidden from us."


    They both nodded.


    Tristan gestured for Geoffrey to follow him. However, before they could walk far, Reid stopped him.


    "Boss, one more thing. Max needs to speak with you," he said, handing his cell phone to Tristan.


    "What is it, Max?" Tristan asked.


    "Boss, someone tried to access the CCTV in the villa¡ª"

 Chapter 500: We Found Him!

    "What is it, Max?" Tristan asked.


    "Boss, someone tried to access the CCTV in the villa¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s expression turned tense when he heard Max¡¯s explanation on the other end. After a few more seconds, he asked, "Did you find out who it was and their location?"


    "I don¡¯t know who they are because they use fake IDs for their IP addresses, but I found the location of the computer they used to access the CCTV on the villa. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been trying to contact you. But your cellphone was inactive," Max said, sounding like he was scolding his boss.


    Tristan ignored him as he was busy guessing that person¡¯s identity. Only one person who would try to check the CCTV at this hour came to his mind¡ªMarco himself.


    "Got it! Send the location to my phone. I¡¯m heading there," Tristan immediately ordered.


    "Boss, it will take you around one hour to get there."


    "Ask Bryan and his team to head there. Make sure he arrives before I do."


    "Yes, boss," Max responded.


    After hanging up the phone, Tristan returned Reid¡¯s cell phone. He started walking again, but Owen chased after him.


    "Tristan, what happened?" Owen, who had overheard Tristan¡¯s conversation, wanted to know more.


    Glancing at Owen, Tristan¡¯s face looked calm again; there was no longer any tension in his gaze, unlike when he received the call. He stopped and turned to face him.


    "Someone tried to access the Villa¡¯s CCTVs. And I¡¯m sure that person might be the real Mad Dog."


    "What?"


    "Seriously?"


    Reid and Owen exclaimed at the same time, shocked.


    Tristan looked at them and replied, "I think so. I¡¯m heading there now."


    "Do you need extra men from here? I can spare some," Owen offered.


    "No need. My backup team is ready and closer and heading there to check as we speak. Please take care of things here until all wrapped up," Tristan said before dashing off with Geoffrey, heading to their car.


    Tristan¡¯s car sped away from the remote location at the foot of the mountain, heading quickly toward the city.


    This time, only one car followed them from behind, as the others were helping clean the villa after the attack¡ªthey had to leave before dawn.


    "Master, you can sleep. I¡¯ll make sure we get there faster."


    Geoffrey¡¯s voice made Tristan look away from his cell phone. He looked at the empty, dark road ahead, worry flashing in his eyes.


    The city center they were heading to was still far away. He feared the person might flee if they noticed anything suspicious at their base camp.


    Tristan could only hope that the person believed what they saw¡ªnothing happened, as Max had shown them a fake CCTV recording where nothing suspicious occurred.


    "I¡¯m fine, Geoffrey. I¡¯m not tired, but I worry that person is suspicious and will flee again," Tristan finally spoke after a long pause.


    Though his voice was calm, Geoffrey could see a flash of worry in his eyes through the rearview mirror. He said nothing, but his hands gripped the steering wheel tightly as he sped up. They needed to get there immediately.


    Tristan turned his gaze to the window before continuing, "If that person escapes again, I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll come after me or my family. My biggest concern is that they will use everything they have, including their lives, to hurt Bella or Dax..." A deep sigh escaped from his lips as fear gripped his heart.


    Geoffrey nodded in agreement. Everything related to Dark Skull was dangerous.


    A few days ago, Geoffrey had just learned this from Tristan, and he, too, had become worried for Dax and Bella, just as Tristan now felt. He thought they would finish the matter tonight. However, they had to wait longer because their primary target¡ªMarco, a.k.a.


    Mad Dog¡ªwas still out of the picture, either because he was already suspicious of the ambush tonight or because the goddess of luck was now on his side.


    ***


    Lights appeared in the distance. They were getting closer to the city, and Tristan¡¯s anxiety slowly faded.


    Grabbing the phone at his side, Tristan called Max. "Where is Bryan?" he asked.


    "They¡¯re already near the house, sir. But they haven¡¯t taken any action yet; they¡¯re waiting for your arrival," Max responded.


    Tristan nodded and said, "Tell them to check around the house to ensure there¡¯s no escape route."


    "Yes, sir, they¡¯ve already done that."


    "Good. What about the person trying to access the CCTV? He still tries?" Tristan asked curiously.


    "He tried once," Max explained. "But, Boss, I think it will seem suspicious if they try to contact the base camp and no one answers."


    Max further explained that the gangsters couldn¡¯t communicate outside because a signal jamming area had been set up at the villa. They had even cut the landline, completely isolating the villa.


    "It¡¯s fine. Sooner or later, they¡¯ll find out we have taken over their secret base," Tristan said, rubbing his forehead. "Tell Owen and Reid to keep at least one team discreetly watching the villa. I believe someone will return to check."


    "Yes, Boss¡ª"


    After another short conversation, Tristan finally ended the call.


    Before long, the vehicle stopped behind a black SUV¡ªBryan¡¯s car.


    Bryan got out of the car and greeted Tristan and Geoffrey. "Boss, please give your orders?" he asked.


    Tristan didn¡¯t respond immediately. Instead, he looked around the house. They were now in the outer city district, near the harbor.


    The surrounding houses were large, like the houses of rich people, and the distance between one house and another was several meters. The road was empty. No cars passed by.


    Tristan checked his watch¡ªit was only 4 AM.


    "Did you see anything suspicious?" Tristan finally asked, looking at the two-meter-high wall in front of him. A few meters from their car, a black gate was tightly closed.


    "I¡¯m not sure anyone¡¯s in the house. The front guard seems to be missing," Bryan responded. "And from the back, my men report that there¡¯s only one light on inside. There aren¡¯t even any garden lights."


    Tristan frowned. "Send someone in to open the way. Make sure no alarms are triggered."


    "Yes, Boss," Bryan said, stepping back and communicating with someone through a small device embedded in his jacket.


    Tristan leaned against the car, staring at the wall again. For some reason, a sense of dread began to grip his heart.


    sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 501: A Note!

    Tristan didn¡¯t wait for Bryan outside; instead, he entered the car and tried to rest his eyes.


    However, his mind couldn¡¯t rest; it was filled with thoughts of his wife. He glanced at his phone several times, checking for any messages from her.


    Each time Tristan checked his phone and found no messages from Bella, he felt a wave of relief. He didn¡¯t want her to be awake and worrying about him at this late hour.


    After another five minutes, Geoffrey stood outside, knocked on the window, and brought Tristan back from his thoughts as he lowered the car window.


    "Master, Bryan has just reported that they are clear of the house, and there is only one person inside¡ªthe man who guards it."


    Tristan silently took a deep sigh. He suddenly felt exhausted upon hearing that the person they were chasing was not in the house either. Annoyance increasingly filled his heart as their failures continued.


    "Okay, let¡¯s head home. I¡¯m worried my wife will wake up before I arrive," said Tristan. He was about to roll up the window when Geoffrey stopped him.


    "Sir, Bryan said you need to come inside. There¡¯s something he needs to show you."


    "What is it?" Tristan asked, looking confused.


    "He didn¡¯t explain in detail, but it¡¯s about the man we¡¯re chasing, Marco."


    Tristan immediately stepped out of the car and followed Geoffrey into the house without further questioning.


    A man led them to the home office, where they found Bryan standing near the desk with a laptop still open.


    "Boss, I found something you should see." The tension in Bryan¡¯s expression was evident as he stepped back to let Tristan get closer to the table.


    As Tristan noticed the paper on the table, his heart started racing. He read the handwritten message: "Tristan Sinclair, you took what¡¯s mine. I¡¯ll take what¡¯s yours, too."


    He clenched his fists, feeling an overwhelming surge of anger. The paper would have turned to ash if his gaze could ignite flames. He was seething with anger but could not lash out at the moment.


    "Boss, Sir¡­" Bryan¡¯s voice quivered, breaking through Tristan¡¯s fear and anger. "Look at the screensaver¡­"


    Tristan glanced at the laptop screen and felt his blood run cold. There were no words to describe his devastation and fury as he saw Bella and Dax¡¯s picture as the screensaver¡ªthe old picture from when the three of them went to the restaurant.


    Looking at the laptop screen, Geoffrey couldn¡¯t hold back his shock and muttered softly, "What the hell! How did he get this picture?"


    "Bro, you should change your question, ¡¯Since when did he know about Dax?¡¯" Bryan said. He believed Marco already knew about Bella because that person had been tailing them for months.


    Tristan¡¯s hands clenched into tight fists before he called Max. He wants Max to find Marco no matter what.


    After talking to Max for a few minutes and giving him lots of instructions, he finally hung up. Then, he asked Bryan to clean up any evidence in the house that could be connected to him.


    Now, he just had to wait for Max to track down the real Marco. They were aware that the man had been at that location¡ªhe had left just thirty minutes before.


    ¡¯You want to threaten my family? Go ahead, see if you have the ability to do so!¡¯ Tristan muttered inwardly as he walked out of the house, with Geoffrey following closely behind.


    ***


    When Bella woke up in the morning, Tristan¡¯s broad pec was the first thing she saw when she opened her eyes.


    A smile appeared on her lips as she realized she had slept with his arm as her pillow and his arms around her.


    "Hubby, when did you return?" Bella whispered softly, as if she were talking to herself, worried about waking him.


    Bella remembered that she had waited for him until three in the morning, so he must have returned sometime afterward.


    Worried about waking Tristan, Bella didn¡¯t dare make a single move. She ignored the clock, even though it was almost seven in the morning. Besides, she still felt slightly sleepy. She closed her eyes again and continued to sleep.


    It didn¡¯t take long before Tristan¡¯s eyes opened. He was grateful he had arrived just a few minutes before she awoke.


    After feeling her no longer moving and her heart beating calmly, he also closed his eyes, trying to sleep. However, his mind couldn¡¯t stop imagining the threat from that damn Marco.


    ...


    An hour later, Bella woke up again and was speechless as she looked at Tristan, who was still fast asleep. Slowly, she managed to release herself from his tight embrace without waking him and made her way to the bathroom to freshen up.


    Even after she had finished cleaning up and changed into her casual clothes, Tristan was still asleep.


    Bella felt sorry, seeing him look so exhausted. She quietly left the room and headed to the dining room. She was famished! It was already past eight in the morning. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She didn¡¯t encounter anyone in the dining room, but she found that breakfast had already been prepared for her and Tristan.


    A note from Noora on the table informed her that Dax was now at his grandpa¡¯s house.


    While enjoying her healthy breakfast, Bella checked her cell phone and noticed Sam and Leo had tried calling her several times.


    Her heart skipped a beat when she saw their repeated calls.


    "Is there a problem at the office?" Bella mumbled to herself. She didn¡¯t rush to call them back but finished her breakfast.


    Shortly after, she went to the living room with her mango juice and decided to call Leo since he had tried to reach her more times than Sam.


    "Oh my God, Bella¡­" Leo¡¯s voice sounded worried and upset. "Finally, you called me. Are you okay there?"


    Bella was confused hearing his question.


    "Yeah, I¡¯m fine. I just finished my breakfast. Why do you sound so worried? Did something happen at the company?" she asked.


    "Yes! Bad things happened at the office¡ª"


    Leo¡¯s response was enough to make Bella¡¯s heart race.

 Chapter 502: Leo Protested

    "Yes! Bad things happened at the office¡ª"


    Leo¡¯s response was enough to make Bella¡¯s heart race.


    "What are you trying to say, Leo?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but raise her voice. She was worried and unhappy. Leo had succeeded in making her curious, but he hadn¡¯t yet explained what happened.


    "Arabella Donovan, you are the one who caused it. Why are you asking me again?"


    It was rare for Leo to call her by her full name unless he was upset or joking around. But now she could tell he was serious.


    "I still don¡¯t understand. What are you trying to say? Speak frankly," Bella said helplessly after trying to think for a few more seconds but couldn¡¯t find the reason. "Can you just tell me? My mind feels hazy because I ate too much, and now I¡¯m feeling drowsy."


    Bella stifled a laugh when she heard Leo laugh at the other end. She succeeded in making him less angry.


    Finally, Leo asked in his solemn tone, "Why did you step down from your position without talking to me?"


    "Ah..." That¡¯s the only sound that could escape from her lips. She believed Jack had already told him about her plan to step down from her CEO position.


    "Now you remember, huh?" Leo paused to take a deep, long sigh before continuing. "Bella, you know why I¡¯m here, right? To help you. Because of you, I¡¯m willing to relocate to this country. But how could I continue working here if you stepped down from the company? I won¡¯t assist and advise any other person, only you...because I have always trusted your judgment and only yours."


    "I¡¯m sorry. I plan to tell you when we meet. I had no idea Jack told you sooner."


    "I will resign, too, Bella. I cannot work for anyone except you or Jack," Leo said firmly. He would rather return to New York than stay in this place to support someone he didn¡¯t know.


    Bella laughed upon hearing his refusal. She knew that Leo was only disappointed with this sudden change. It seemed that Jack hadn¡¯t given him a clear explanation about Quantum Capital¡¯s future.


    "Leo, did Jack tell you about the plan? Who will replace me and your future in the company?" Bella asked. She starts to vent her sarcasm to Jack to confuse and anger Leo.


    "Leo, what plan?" Leo asked, clearly confused.


    "My goodness, Leo Smith, did you forget you are now dating Dana?" Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer him. She needed to remind him again about what he had told her in the past; he wanted to stay in this country for good and build his own family with Dana.


    Of course, Leo didn¡¯t answer her; he just cleared his throat to respond to her words.


    "My friend, I know you are angry because I stepped down. But you should also understand I¡¯m carrying two babies in me. And in the first place, I never wanted to take over the company, you know that, right?"


    Leo did not respond, which caused Bella to smile. She continued, "When I talk to Tristan about it, he supports my decision, as does Jack."


    "I know, Bella... I know... I just...I don¡¯t want to work for people I don¡¯t know. And if I return to New York, I will bring Dana with me." Leo said in his deep tone.


    "Well, Leo, if you are concerned about my replacement, you don¡¯t have to be. Harper will take over my position; she will take over the company."


    "WHAT? Harper? Why did she come to this country?" Leo was shocked to hear that.


    "Yeah, she is the one who will replace me. If I¡¯m not mistaken, she will come in a few next days because she was never absent from Dax¡¯s birthday party¡ª"


    "Wait, wait," Leo interrupted. "Why is she willing to move here?" Leo asked suspiciously.


    "Heaven! Leo Smith! Are you dumb with love, or are you now suffering from amnesia?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh at how clueless Leo was. "How could you forget about it?"


    "What?"


    "I believe you know Harper is pursuing Sean, right!?"


    "Ah¡ª" A silence hung in the air. Leo was shocked to hear that Bella knew about Harper¡¯s big secret. How could she know?


    "Bella, how do you know about it? Did Stefan tell you?" Leo asked. He remembered he never slipped up and talked about it to Bella. Only Stefan could betray Harper.


    Bella really wants to scold him because he and the others kept this a secret from her. If only Sean hadn¡¯t been honest with her, maybe she wouldn¡¯t know this good news.


    "Sean told me everything. He was honest with me, saying he wanted to move on and give Harper a chance. So, yeah, I know about them¡ª" Bella paused momentarily when she remembered something.


    Leo¡¯s happy laugh was heard from the other end.


    "I didn¡¯t expect that cold Sean Spencer to finally move on from you, Bella. And I¡¯m truly happy for Harper. Damn, she might faint if she knows..."


    "Right, Leo, don¡¯t tell Harper anything about Sean wanting to give her a chance. Let¡¯s just wait and see what happens to them. We can only pray their relationship will end happily." She warned him.


    "I promise you! I¡¯m not the type of guy who likes to gossip around. That¡¯s why Harper¡¯s secret is safe with me," Leo said proudly. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella chuckled.


    "You¡¯re going to stay now. You won¡¯t return to New York?"


    "Hahaha, of course! Why should I resign?"


    Bella was speechless. His tone sounded utterly different from Leo¡¯s, whom she had talked with earlier. This time, there was no trace of anger in his tone.


    "Oh, Leo, I suggest Jack promote you to become the COO of Quantum Capital. So you don¡¯t have to be Harper¡¯s assistant..."


    Bella continued to explain the company¡¯s plan for next year.


    ***


    At the same time, at Fort City International Airport.


    Harper Reed eagerly pulled her suitcase behind her.


    Her heart raced with excitement at the thought of meeting Sean, who was coming to pick her up.


    She couldn¡¯t wait to meet him!

 Chapter 503: Harper’s Sudden Arrival

    At Fort City International Airport.


    Harper stopped in her tracks to text Sean.


    "Hi, Sean. I¡¯m about to walk out of the arrival gate. Have you arrived yet? Please send me your location. I will directly go there from the airport."


    After sending the text, Harper continued walking. But she stopped again just a few meters away from the man who had recently appeared even more frequently in her dreams. Sean was standing only a few meters ahead of her.


    He stood out among the crowd waiting for their family and loved ones with his athletic look and calm gaze, even though he only wore a casual black shirt with blue jeans pants. A few girls walking nearby stopped to steal glances at him. He ignored them all, staring at his cell phone like he had just read something.


    ¡¯My goodness! He is here!¡¯ Harper silently tried to calm her heart as she saw him finally look in her direction. She didn¡¯t want to make him wait, so she continued to walk to him.


    Harper felt her heart race as she noticed a few envious looks from the women around them as she stopped right before him.


    "H-Hi, S-Sean," she greeted him, slightly excited and nervous.


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt all her words betrayed her. She suddenly forgot the words she had prepared to say to him on her way here.


    "Hi," Sean answered calmly and quickly, taking the suitcase from Harper and gesturing for her to follow him.


    Harper silently walked beside him, trying to match his fast, long stride. She was thankful she wore sneakers; it would be troublesome to wear heels when following him.


    They walked toward the parking lot for a few more minutes without anyone speaking.


    A few times, Harper wanted to break the silence with the question she had in mind, but all the words she had stuck in her lips until they finally arrived at the parking lot.


    Later,


    Sean stopped before the brand-new black Maserati Levante. He didn¡¯t immediately put the suitcase into the trunk but opened the passenger seat door for her.


    "Please¡­" Sean said softly, gesturing to her to enter the car.


    Without saying anything, she entered the car, holding her breath as they stood so close. His masculine scent filled her sense of smell as he put his palms up to protect her head. Slowly, her heart pounded.


    After securing her seat belt, she saw Sean handling her suitcase through the rearview mirror. Her heart was still beating fast as she saw how handsome and calm he appeared.


    She had never felt her heart racing like this around a man before. This was the first time her nerves had gotten the best of her.


    ¡¯Harper! Stay calm, okay... He might think you¡¯re too desperate to date him. Stay calm! Stay calm!¡¯ She tried hard to distract her mind while turning her gaze ahead, ignoring him.


    However, his familiar scent became strong once he sat next to her. She dared not look at him, worried he might see her nervousness.


    Finally, the car engine started and left the parking lot.


    Harper saw Sean¡¯s reflection in the window, looking solemn as he drove the car. She felt relieved; he hadn¡¯t asked her anything because she was still trying to calm her heart.


    But not long after, Sean¡¯s voice suddenly pulled her from her thoughts.


    "Have you booked a place to stay?"


    Harper finally dared to turn to him. She saw him still looking ahead on the street.


    "Not yet. Usually, Sam or Leo will book it for me. But I already told Sam I¡¯ll be arriving in two days, so I¡¯m sure I don¡¯t have a place to stay tonight. But that¡¯s okay. I can go to the hotel near our office to check in." She smiled at him despite his still focused on the road ahead.


    Harper is amused because she was rushing to fly here when Sean suddenly calls her and asks whether they can meet before Dax¡¯s birthday party.


    Without thinking, she said yes. She immediately packed her suitcase and flew. She was lucky to have a year-long visa to enter this country, so she didn¡¯t need to ask someone to apply again.


    "Do you mind staying at my family¡¯s hotel?" Sean asked while glancing at her briefly.


    Harper was too excited to reply to his offer. She turned her gaze outside the window, stifling her happy smile.


    "Apologize if I sound rude, Harper," Sean¡¯s sorry tone surprised her. "But, because you already moved your schedule forward, I just wanted to¡ª"


    "Sean, of course I want to," Harper hurriedly responded, worried he would feel bad.


    "Okay, thanks," A relieved smile appeared on his lips before he continued, "No worries, my family hotel is located near your company."


    "Thank you, Sean." Harper was too happy to witness him finally smile at her.


    ***


    Not long after, the car finally arrived at the Star Hotel.


    Sean didn¡¯t need to check in at the reception. He drove his car underground in a particular parking lot. He went straight up to the presidential room his family usually uses. The room was not rented to guests but exclusive to the Spencer family or their guests.


    As they entered the elevator, an exuberant Harper suddenly changed. She still felt nervous around Sean, even though she tried to act normal by breathing as relaxed as possible.


    Arriving at the top floor, Sean led her to one of the rooms and opened the door, but he didn¡¯t seem to enter. Instead, he stayed in front of the door.


    As Harper turned to ask him, he spoke: "Harper, why don¡¯t you get some rest first? I¡¯ll come back to pick you up later this afternoon. My mother wants to meet you¡ª"


    Harper suddenly felt her knees weaken. She almost fell if not for her hands steadying herself against the wall.


    ¡¯Wait, what? Meet his mother right after I arrive? Did I hear that right?¡¯


    Harper¡¯s mind felt blurry. Her heart skipped a beat. She thought Sean wanted to talk to her alone, but it turned out that they would meet his mother.


    ¡¯Does that mean his parents already know about me?¡¯


    Instantly, her entire body felt goosebumps and became tense.


    "Sean, you want me to meet your mother? Are you sure?" Harper asked to make sure. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 504: Sam’s Question Surprised Her

    At Bella and Tristan¡¯s house,


    After talking to Leo, Bella made another call.


    "Good morning, Sam," Bella greeted him cheerfully. "I saw you¡¯ve been trying to reach me. Is there something important you want to talk about?"


    "Yes, Boss," Sam¡¯s worried tone could be heard from the other end. "Do you still remember Dark Skull?" he asked.


    Bella paused momentarily, trying to understand why Sam suddenly asked her about it.


    "Yeah, I remember. If I¡¯m not mistaken, Dark Skull is why we established the Sentinel Network in this country, right?"


    "Yes. You¡¯re right. But later, when we started to build our network here, they no longer appeared to be tailing you. And surprisingly, we discovered that Dark Skull is related to Dark Rose, the current number one nightclub in this country."


    "I know that they¡¯re not tailing me anymore. And why do you seem worried, Sam!? We don¡¯t have a nightclub business," Bella responded confusedly. "We will not encounter them in our business, right?"


    "Boss, can you hear me out first?" Sam chuckled.


    Bella, "..."


    Sam continued without waiting for Bella to answer. "Well, I heard from our people in Quantum Capital... Last night, Dark Skull¡¯s base camp was wiped out. A few of their leaders were arrested. Also, the Dark Rose business chain will be audited, so they can¡¯t operate until an undetermined time."


    Bella was increasingly confused hearing Sam¡¯s explanation. Why did Sam think this was important for her to know? She did not care as long as the Dark Skull organization did not interfere with their company. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She knew very well that their business did not encounter those people.


    "Seriously!? Why are you telling me this?" Bella asked impatiently. She wanted to see her husband upstairs, but Sam seemed to want to continue gossiping about other people¡¯s business.


    Instead of answering her, Sam asked, "Seriously, Boss, you don¡¯t know?"


    "Should I know about it? I still can¡¯t relate." Bella asked in return.


    "The one who wiped out the Dark Skull base is actually Reid. He and his team attack and wipe out the Dark Skull base. You know him, right?"


    "Reid? Is this the Reid in Tristan¡¯s office?" Bella repeated the name. She only knew one Reid, the Head of the Security division in Tristan¡¯s office.


    "Yes, that Reid. And I also heard that Bryan and his team made a tactical move last night. However, I asked my people to back out from the scene because I¡¯m worried they are suspicious, we know."


    Bella was surprised to hear that.


    "Bryan? What the hell happened out there? Why did they all..." Bella¡¯s voice suddenly stopped as she remembered Tristan, who had to leave the house last night and only returned in the morning.


    She was puzzled now. Didn¡¯t Tristan say he went to the office because of a cybersecurity problem? Why did Sam seem to want to tell her that her husband was the one who wiped out the old gangster base camp last night?


    "Wait, so you¡¯re saying my husband did all that? Wiped out the Dark Skull¡¯s Basecamp and closed down their business?"


    The sound of Sam taking a long, deep breath on the other end made Bella nervous.


    "That¡¯s why I called you Boss. I wanted to ask if your husband was involved in this operation because I have long suspected that your husband doesn¡¯t have simple bodyguards. They all look like soldiers," Sam said.


    Sam¡¯s words made Bella realize the many questions she wanted to ask Tristan but had always put them aside.


    Hearing what Sam told her, Bella was sure that her suspicions about Bryan and the others being more than just ordinary security guards were confirmed.


    "Boss? Are you still there?" Sam asked after not hearing Bella respond for a few minutes.


    "Yes, I¡¯m here. But Sam, you asked the wrong person because I don¡¯t know the answer," Bella chuckled. "Well, you can try asking Bryan. You know him well. I believe he will tell you..."


    Sam¡¯s booming laugh could suddenly be heard from the other end, causing Bella to pull away her cell phone.


    "Gosh, Sam! Why are you laughing?" Bella asked.


    "Boss, if only I could make Bryan talk. Maybe I would have reported to you by now what happened. Bryan is like a rock when talking to me about other matters that are not related to you. The same thing happened to the people your husband placed in our building; they have one similar trait: they don¡¯t babble," Sam explained.


    Bella took a deep breath to hear that.


    They continued chatting for a while, and suddenly, Bella remembered about Harper.


    "Oh right, Sam. Has Harper contacted you? She said she will fly here for Dax¡¯s Birthday Party..."


    "Yeah, she did. She said she would arrive in two days. I already booked a hotel for her," Sam replied.


    "Please, let me know if she arrives. I need to talk to her about something." Bella is so excited to meet Harper again. She wanted to talk to her about Sean.


    "Sure, boss."


    ***


    At the Star Hotel.


    Instantly, Harper¡¯s entire body felt goosebumps and became tense.


    "Sean, you want me to meet your mother? Are you sure?" she asked to make sure.


    "Yes. My mother already knows about you," Sean replied.


    Once again, Harper almost fell. She was too shocked. She quickly controlled herself, trying to smile at Sean.


    "Ugh, we need to talk. Please come in," Harper said, dragging her suitcase inside, not waiting for Sean to answer.


    After knowing that Sean¡¯s mother wanted to meet her, her rationality returned. It was like an invisible force that made her refocus.


    This was a huge thing. She had to be ready to meet his mother. She shouldn¡¯t make a mistake, appear unimpressive in front of Sean¡¯s mother, and lose the opportunity to be Sean¡¯s future wife; that would be disastrous, right?


    Stopping near the large living room, Harper turned towards the door and was taken aback when she saw Sean still standing where he was, looking hesitant to enter the room.


    "Sean? Why didn¡¯t you enter? Come in... we need to discuss something before I met your mother."


    "But¡ª"


    Harper suppressed a smile when she saw Sean hesitating to enter; he seemed worried.


    "Don¡¯t worry, just come in. I won¡¯t eat you, Sean," she wanted to say but held back.

 Chapter 505: Sean Spencer’s Confession

    After clearing her perfectly healthy throat, Harper calmly said, "If you¡¯re concerned about entering a woman¡¯s bedroom, you can leave the door open." She smiled at him, knowing he was a gentleman.


    Finally, Sean stepped inside, leaving the door open behind him.


    Harper smiled faintly while sitting and started asking him questions when he saw him sitting opposite.


    "Sean, I¡¯m sorry to ask. Have you told your mother about me?" she asked while hiding her joyful expression.


    Harper clenched her fist, anticipating what he wanted to say.


    Sean took a deep breath before he told her about his mother, who started bombarding him with questions about arranged marriage ¡ª a topic he always avoids, but this time, he couldn¡¯t.


    He had no choice but to admit that he already had a woman he was interested in. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That time you appeared in my mind, Harper. And I remember you telling me that if my parents wanted to arrange a marriage for me, you would want me to consider you, right?" He asked.


    Harper nodded shyly, feeling her face getting warm.


    Sean smiled at her as he continued, "You are the only single woman I know outside of my colleagues in the military. So, Yes. I¡¯ve told them about you."


    Harper¡¯s heart raced a mile per second when she heard Sean¡¯s sentence. This was the most extensive conversation she had ever heard him speak since she had known him. His words instantly made her heart swell; she felt like she was about to descend into nirvana. Finally, what she dreamed of came true.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Harper. If I got you involved with my family before asking your permission. I feel bad¡ª"


    "No, Sean. I don¡¯t mind," Harper hurriedly corrected him. "I¡¯m glad you think about me and have the courage to tell them about me."


    Sean wanted to say something, but seeing how happy she was, he stopped and only smiled back at her.


    "I¡¯m only nervous about meeting your mother. That¡¯s why we need to talk about this, Sean," her eyes beamed as she saw him. "I don¡¯t want your mother to be disappointed the first time she meets me."


    Sean shook his head, a small smile still on his lips as he said, "Harper, my mother no longer cares who I bring to meet her. She only cares that the one I bring is a woman, not a man."


    Harper stifled a laugh upon hearing his words.


    "So they thought you liked a man?" she asked.


    "Yes. My parents and Grandpa always tease me like that. That¡¯s why, when I said I have a woman interested in, my mother was so happy and asked me to introduce you immediately..."


    "Thank you, Sean, for remembering me."


    Sean slightly frowned at her words.


    "You don¡¯t have to thank me, Harper. I already set my mind to move on from my past and give myself a chance to open a new page. And, of course, I chose you. You will be on my new page. So, meeting my mother is the beginning of my new page. I hope you don¡¯t mind if I planned this without telling you beforehand."


    Sean smiled awkwardly for a moment after hearing his own words.


    "I¡¯m waiting for you to come here because I¡¯m a man who can¡¯t talk on the phone about something like this. I need to meet you in person," he continued.


    No words can describe how Harper feels right now after hearing Sean¡¯s sincere confession. She could only squeeze her hand tightly while holding back her tears, touched by happiness.


    "I understand, Sean," Harper softly and calmly said, clearly enough for Sean to hear.


    "Harper, I need to tell you something," Sean said.


    Harper nodded, although she was worried about what he wanted to say. His expression slowly changed¡ªa worried look flashed in his eyes.


    "Honestly, I don¡¯t have any feelings for you yet. But please give me time. Falling for you might not be fast, but I promise to do the best things a man can do for his woman. And I promise you, from now on, no other women on my mind, only you," Sean confessed.


    His confession made Harper want to embrace him, but she held back. She could only say, "Sean, don¡¯t worry about that. I know. I understand."


    Harper was touched that this man would be open and honest about his feelings. She knew their relationship had started strangely, so she didn¡¯t expect him to love her immediately. She would be confused and suspicious if Sean suddenly fell for her because she knew his story with Bella so well.


    "So you don¡¯t mind starting with me, even though I do not love you now?" Sean asked, surprised to see how calm she was. There was no disappointment flashing through her eyes.


    "Hmm, of course, I don¡¯t mind," Harper said. "Sean, I¡¯m no longer a teenager with unstable emotions. I will pretend this is an arranged marriage set up by our parents." She smiled tenderly at him, causing Sean to smile, too.


    "And, Sean, just to let you know, I¡¯m so happy you are involving me in your new page." Her voice cracked, unable to contain the happiness overflowing in her chest. "You know, I have already imagined this for a long time since I met you, right?"


    Sean was unable to respond to her words; he just nodded. He started to worry about seeing her cry, even though he knew it was not a miserable cry but a joyful kind of tear.


    "And I don¡¯t want to disappoint your mother either," Harper said, wiping her cheeks. "Sean, I want to impress her. Can you tell me about your mother?"


    "I told you she would like you, Harper. You don¡¯t have to pretend to be anyone else but yourself. My mother is a senior psychologist in our hospital, so just by smiling, she will know whether you are sincere or not. So, just be yourself. I know you are a kind woman. That¡¯s why I¡¯m daring to bring you to meet her."


    Harper couldn¡¯t hide her surprise upon hearing this, but she nodded and agreed with Sean. She just needed to be herself to meet her future mother-in-law.


    "Alright, anything else you want to ask?"


    "Can you not leave me alone? I want to know you more, Sean, or you need to know me better, too, right?"


    "Ok. Let¡¯s spend this day getting to know each other before meeting my mother," Sean smiled back at her. She was indeed correct. Even though he had already read her entire profile, he needed to stay here to make things less awkward.

 Chapter 506: The Danger Lurking Behind

    After speaking with Sam, Bella hurried to the second floor to check on Tristan. She was surprised to find him no longer in bed but in the bathroom.


    Approaching the bathroom slowly, she could hear running water inside. A smile crossed her lips as she let him finish before asking about what happened the night before.


    Bella tidied the bed before sitting on the couch, waiting for him. What he discussed with Sam lingered, fueling his curiosity for the truth that could ease his worries.


    While waiting for Tristan to finish, Bella opened the browser on her cellphone to search for news about Dark Skull or Dark Rose, but none of the news reported what happened last night.


    She could only smile, realizing that if the news were kept secret, the public wouldn¡¯t even know about the termination of the Dark Rose Nightclub¡¯s operations. Or perhaps they knew, but none of them could upload it on their social media because someone deleted it right away?


    Bella wondered if she should ask Stefan to dig out more detailed information about what had happened last night, just in case Tristan did not tell her.


    Not long after, the bathroom door finally opened. Bella saw Tristan only wearing a large towel wrapped around his hips. He also used a small towel to dry his hair.


    Just seeing him shirtless made her heart race slightly. She shook her head faintly to distract her mind while suppressing the urge to run after him and throw herself into his embrace.


    ¡¯Gosh! Why does this man never fail to make me flutter? Even though I see him like this every day?¡¯ She wondered while trying to keep her unhappy expression.


    "Good morning, dear," Tristan smiled widely to see Bella on the sofa. He feels amused to see how her eyes scan his body from head to toe. "Do you want us to make love¡ª"


    Bella hurriedly interrupted him. "Tristan Sinclair, get dressed and come here," she said casually while turning her gaze away from him. "There¡¯s something we need to talk about. And please stop talking about your sultry thoughts!"


    Tristan noticed that Bella¡¯s usual smile had faded, and she seemed in a bad mood.


    "What¡¯s wrong, darling?" Tristan asked, ignoring her request and approaching her.


    "Could you please put some clothes on first?" Bella said helplessly, looking slightly angry as she narrowed her eyes at him. "Tristan¡ª" she was speechless when he sat beside her and took her hand.


    "Are you feeling unwell?" He asked worriedly as he placed his hand on her forehead. "Please tell me what¡¯s bothering you, darling."


    "I¡¯m okay, but you are not. Because you¡¯re not honest with me about what happened last night. Now, put something on. Or I¡¯ll be really mad at you!" Bella raised her eyebrow slightly.


    Tristan was stunned. How did she know? He wanted to ask her, but seeing her furious gaze, he said nothing and hurried to the walk-in closet to get dressed.


    Before long, Tristan returned wearing a matching black shirt and pants.


    Sitting beside Bella again, Tristan looked very nervous, but he tried to hide it.


    "My Dear, how did you know? Did Stefan tell you about it?" Tristan tries to guess. In his mind, only Stefan, her hacker, knew about last night¡¯s operation.


    Bella shook her head slowly.


    "How I know is not important. But I want to know why you got involved with the Dark Skull. Tristan, you know they are very dangerous, right? What if something happened to you? How could I survive without you?" Bella couldn¡¯t hold back her worry any longer. Her voice sounded shaky, and her eyes were blurry, holding back tears.


    Tristan was shocked to see his wife almost crying because she was worried about his safety, not because he was not honest with her. It relieved him. He immediately took her hand and held it gently.


    "Bella, I apologize for making you worry," Tristan said softly. He wiped away her tears with his other hand, now wetting her red cheeks, "I only didn¡¯t want to make you worry and stress about it."


    "But now you are! I¡¯m worried, scared to imagine they hurt you." Bella feared losing him again if that evil Dark Skull hurt Tristan.


    She lowered her gaze. She didn¡¯t want him to see her tears before expressing her worry: "How could I survive without you now, Tristan? Please don¡¯t get involved with them, huh?"


    Tristan felt his heart warm to hear her words, "Oh Dear, I was about to tell you, but last night was too critical and fluid simultaneously. And I had to rush to the scene¡ª"


    "Wait, wait..." Bella slowly lifted her head again and looked at him thoughtfully. "Why did you get involved with them? Are you having an underground business? Or a nightclub business?" she asked curiously.


    "I don¡¯t have an underground business," he smiled, cupping her face with his warm hands. "But we encountered the Dark Skull long ago in mining work. They challenged me, and I wiped them out of the mining business industry."


    Bella¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. "So, in the past, they were also strong in various businesses?"


    Tristan nods. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "At that time, no one knew their true nature¡ªan underground organization. I accidentally learned about their illegal business. So, I worked with the special forces to wipe them out," Tristan continued, recounting their operation in the past.


    Bella was shocked to learn that all this happened when she and Tristan had just married. Now she understood why Tristan hadn¡¯t wanted to announce his marital status in the past. One reason was that he was worried that his enemy, Dark Skull, would discover his weakness¡ªhe had a wife¡ª because he was still fighting with them then.


    After hearing Tristan¡¯s explanation, Bella¡¯s confusion grew. Her eyes narrowed at Tristan as she asked, "Tristan, you said you already wiped them out. But why did they come back? Did they come to take revenge on you?"


    Tristan shook his head faintly, gently squeezing her hands, and then replied, "This is related to you, Bella..."

 Chapter 507: Related To Me?

    Bella¡¯s face suddenly stiffened.


    "What do you mean this is related to me?" she asked, confused.


    "What happened last night was related to you," Tristan answered.


    She started to remember something that had confused her and Sam: The Dark Skull had stopped following her since Bryan began working for her.


    But why were they following her? She remembered that she had not yet reunited with Tristan, and nobody knew about her relationship with him, which confused her.


    "Tristan, I know that Dark Skull has been following me for some time. But then, something confused me; they stopped tailing me after Bryan became my driver. Did Bryan make them stop following me?" Bella asked curiously.


    Tristan was shocked to learn that Bella had known about Dark Skull tailing her all along.


    "So you knew about them long before...?" He asked. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yeah. Sam knew about them the first day they started tailing me. I suspect they¡¯re following me because of our business matters. You know, I have many enemies, too," she said with a faint smile. "I know they tailed me. But not long after, they no longer follow us," Bella explained.


    "I see. Yes, Bryan noticed them. So, he instructed his small team to follow you everywhere you go and, at the same time, to distract those people to find out where you live. That time, we did not know they were Dark Skull because they managed to escape when we tried to catch them."


    "Ah, no wonder. I think they are no longer interested in me. That¡¯s why the Sentinel Network no longer investigated them," Bella said.


    "Even though Bryan¡¯s team managed to distract them, those people never stopped. They try to find out your identity; they have a strong hacker. I thought you knew about it, right?" Tristan heard from Stefan that he had told her.


    "Yes. Stefan told me about it. So, those people who were interested in my identity were from Dark Skull?"


    "Yes, we only found out after we captured those who followed you," Tristan told her about the day of the restaurant incident. They managed to capture those people, and only then did all the information lead them to Dark Skull and the Dark Rose chain of businesses.


    "Wow, these people know about our relationship through your announcement on the internet and are bold enough to capture me, too? Unbelievable..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but be surprised. If there hadn¡¯t been an incident that day with the crazy woman trying to hurt Dax, Dark Skull¡¯s people would probably have captured her and Dax. Just thinking about it gave her goosebumps.


    "Yes, they might be doing that." Tristan¡¯s face turned dark again, remembering that day.


    However, a second later, he dismissed his anger and continued, "Yesterday, we finally found their location. I didn¡¯t want them to run away, so last night, I decided to carry out a secret mission with special forces to ambush their base camp."


    Tristan told her everything about what happened last night. He didn¡¯t hide anything anymore because he realized his wife had the resources to find out about it anyway.


    Bella was silent for a few minutes after hearing Tristan¡¯s long and confusing explanation. So many questions now appeared in her mind, but somehow, she couldn¡¯t ask him. All her words stuck in her throat.


    As if knowing what Bella was thinking, Tristan gently patted her hands.


    "Don¡¯t worry, my dear love. Everything is under control. But I won¡¯t lower your guard if you go out because I never know who will cause trouble for you and Dax," Tristan tried to reassure her, as he could see the worry still lingering in her eyes.


    This made Tristan decide not to tell her about the real leader of Dark Skull, his mortal enemy, Mad Dog, who is still out there waiting for the opportunity to come back and attack him through the people he cared about the most.


    But, of course, Tristan will not just sit and do nothing. Before that villain comes after him, he will surely capture him first, no matter the cost.


    "Hmm, I understand," Bella agreed with him. She knows how crazy people are nowadays. She still worries that a crazy woman like Kelly Davis will appear before her again, hurting her and Dax. She had better listen to Tristan than be sorry if something happened to her son.


    Tristan said nothing else but pulled his wife into his warm embrace. They hugged for a while, enjoying each other¡¯s company.


    But not long after, Tristan¡¯s stomach growled, prompting Bella to immediately loosen her hug and look up to meet his gaze.


    "Oh...I¡¯m sorry, hubby. I forgot you were not eating something. It¡¯s almost ten. You need to have breakfast now before you go to your office," Bella said as she stood up.


    She pulled him to follow her to the dining room.


    Tristan didn¡¯t take long to breakfast, as he had to rush to his office.


    After Tristan finally left for his office, Bella also needed to contact Stefan. Her worry about Dark Skull still lingers in her mind, even though Tristan had already reassured her.


    ***


    In the afternoon,


    Bella enjoyed her tea and sweet cake in the back garden while looking at the distant forest.


    Geoffrey and Noora sat in front of her. Bella called them to discuss the upcoming celebration of Dax¡¯s birthday, which will be held on Sunday, three days from now.


    Bella asked Geoffrey and Noora about the preparation updates.


    "Mam, all the preparations are ready. The vendors will start decorating the hall tomorrow. The chefs are also prepared with the menu you requested," Geoffrey explained, detailing all the tasks they had completed in the past week.


    "Young Miss, please trust us. We will ensure our young master¡¯s first birthday celebration in this country is unforgettable," Noora added with excitement.


    "Thank you, Geoffrey and Aunty Noora," Bella expressed gratitude to them.


    Bella felt grateful and excited because, this year, her son would be surrounded by more family. Unlike last year, when only she and Noora were present, her family and Tristan¡¯s grandpa and father would join them this year.

 Chapter 508: Call From Harper

    The day before Dax¡¯s birthday party, Bella was thrilled to see Harper¡¯s name on her cell phone screen. She already knew from Sam that Harper had arrived. Still, Harper didn¡¯t stay in the hotel they provided without telling Bella why.


    Bella assumed Harper must be staying somewhere Sean had arranged. She called her a few times to discuss it, but her cell phone was inactive, and she didn¡¯t reply to all her texts.


    A few minutes ago, Bella sent Harper a warning text: "If you don¡¯t call me now, I will ask Stefan to trace you." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And it seems her last text message was enough to make Harper call her back.


    "My goodness, Harper Reed! You finally called me. Are you ghosting me, girl?" Bella scolded her. "Geez! Where have you been? Why have you ignored me these past few days?" She bombarded her with questions.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella, but every time I try to reply to your text message or call you, I have a problem with my connection. Gosh, I think I should change my phone," Harper replied.


    Bella rolled her eyes when she heard her reason. "Sister, do you really expect me to believe that?" she chuckled before continuing. "Okay, tell me, how¡¯s it going between you and Sean? Are you guys a couple now or what?"


    "Oh my gosh, how did you find out? Did Sean tell you?" Harper asked in a panic. She had warned Sean not to tell Bella about them, as she wanted to tell her the good news in person.


    Bella laughed happily, ignoring Harper¡¯s panicked question. It was easy for her to guess that Sean must be making his move on Harper.


    "Come on, tell me," Harper whined. "W-What did he tell you?" She felt nervous about Bella¡¯s opinion regarding this dating news, especially about meeting Sean¡¯s mother.


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to answer her. Instead, she walked out of the party hall after doing the final check. While walking to the second floor, she continued to talk with Harper, "Well, I didn¡¯t hear about it from Sean. But I only guessed it!"


    "Oh my gosh, girl, you set me up!" Harper couldn¡¯t help but scold her before she giggled.


    "But, girl, well, you guessed it right. Yeah, Sean and I are now a couple..." Harper continues.


    Bella sat on the couch, giggling happily as if her best friend was now sitting before her. It¡¯s hard for her to describe how happy she was now to hear that two of her best friends, Sean and Harper, are officially dating.


    "Congratulations, Harper. I¡¯m truly happy for you and Sean. Well, to be honest with you...Sean didn¡¯t say anything about it. But I only know he wants to move on and pursue you."


    "He told you about it?" Harper was surprised. "And you didn¡¯t let me know about it? Geez, you are so heartless, girl."


    Bella laughed, "Well, yeah, he told me when his parents invited Tristan and me for dinner in their house. I met Sean there, and he told me about his plan. But he also warned me not to tell you about his plan because he wanted to meet you in person to discuss it directly with you."


    "I understand," Harper giggling could be heard again.


    "So when did he ask you out?" Bella asked, curious to know their story.


    Harper answered, "He invited me, and I arrived two days ago and directly stayed at his family hotel¡ª"


    "Wow, you arrived two days ago and didn¡¯t bother to notify me? Your best friend? Come on, gurl!?" Bella interrupted.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. I was nervous because Sean had asked me to fly here earlier from my schedule. And you know what? The moment I landed, he said his mother wanted to meet me. I didn¡¯t have time to contact you. I feel like I lost my ability to think at that time."


    Bella felt warm in her heart for her best friend. She was genuinely happy but needed to vent her upset: "Wow! That¡¯s huge news. And you¡¯re still hiding it from me? Are we still friends, Harper Reed?"


    "I¡¯m sorry, girl. I promise I will tell you everything tomorrow," Harper responded cheerfully.


    "So, tomorrow you will come with Sean!?" Bella asked excitedly. "Should I tell everyone about your relationship?"


    "Yes and No!"


    "Huh!? What do you mean?" Bella asked, confused.


    Harper chuckled before saying, "Yes, we¡¯ll come together tomorrow. But don¡¯t tell the others. I want to surprise them all."


    Bella smiled when something crossed her mind, "Alright, I won¡¯t tell them. But, Harper, there¡¯s something I want to tell you."


    "What about?" Harper asked, suspicious that her best friend would do something. Prank her? She felt worried.


    "Tristan invited Sean¡¯s parents. So, they will probably come tomorrow to celebrate Dax¡¯s birthday." Bella¡¯s smile grew wider when she heard Harper panicked from the other end. "Prepare yourself, girl."


    "Oh My Gosh! Jayson Spencer will come? Why on earth did your husband invite his parents?" Harper was in a panic and couldn¡¯t hide how worried she was.


    Harper had met Sean¡¯s mother but not his father. Now that she heard his father would be coming, she instantly felt nervous. She still needed some courage to meet him in person, even though Sean had assured her that his father was very positive after his mother told him about their meeting.


    "Oh, Harper...did you forget? Sean¡¯s father is Tristan¡¯s best friend. They even attended my private wedding with Tristan. They are very close," Bella explained.


    Harper was at a loss for words. She couldn¡¯t reply to Bella because she was too nervous and busy imagining what would happen tomorrow.


    "Harper? Are you still there? Or are you faint now?" Bella teased after waiting a few more seconds, but Harper said nothing.


    "Ugh, Bella. I have to end the call now. I need to recheck my outfit to see whether I should change it. Bye¡ª" Harper said and ended the call.


    Bella laughed as the call was cut off.


    "What¡¯s making you so happy?" Tristan¡¯s voice startled Bella as he walked toward her.


    "OMG, Husband... You won¡¯t believe it! Harper just called me. And she said she is dating Sean," Bella explained.

 Chapter 509: Dax’s Birthday

    "Wow! Seriously?" Tristan asked while sitting beside Bella. "He moved that fast? It must be because his parents want to arrange a marriage for him, right? I heard his mother asking a few of our friends¡¯ daughters as the possible bride for Sean."


    "Yeah, I guess so. That¡¯s why Sean brought Harper to meet his mother as soon as Harper landed in this country," Bella said happily. "I¡¯m so excited to meet them tomorrow. She said she would come with Sean."


    Tristan played with Bella¡¯s hair while listening to her talk about her best friend. He loved seeing her eyes light up when she talked about Harper and Sean. Her sincere friendship with Sean was visible in her eyes now.


    He started to feel bad because he used to be jealous of Sean, even though his wife never had feelings for him.


    Tristan tried to hide his rueful expression and checked her wounded hand, which was now starting to heal. The stitches have also been removed, but the scars are still clearly visible, making him even more sad.


    He silently sighed deeply before saying, "I¡¯m so happy for Jayson and Emily. They must be so happy that Sean finally has a girlfriend."


    "Yeah, they must be. They will come tomorrow, right?"


    "Hmm, I just talked to Jayson. He informed me he would come. He also asked what Dax liked as a birthday present. So, I said Dax doesn¡¯t like toys but likes toy company shares," Tristan explained.


    "Gosh, Tristan. Are you kidding, right?"


    "Nope. I¡¯m not kidding, dear."


    Bella slightly frowned. But curious to know, she asked, "So, Jayson Spencer will give the toy company¡¯s share to Dax?"


    "Hmm, he will."


    Bella gasped. Her eyes widened, staring at Tristan. She was surprised to hear that.


    "Why is he so generous? Tristan, is it OK to accept that expensive gift from him?" Bella asked in concern.


    "He is a rich man," Tristan chuckled. "You don¡¯t have to feel bad about it. I also give him expensive gifts sometimes."


    Bella, "..."


    "Jayson promised me he would put the share under my name, but once Dax is seventeen, then I will give the share to him."


    Bella no longer said anything about that. She could only silently listen to Tristan as he explained how close he was to Jayson Spencer and his family.


    *** S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    November 1,


    Finally, Dax¡¯s birthday arrived.


    Bella is awake before the sun appears on the horizon. She wakes Tristan, who is still cuddling her in his arms.


    "What happened, dear?" Tristan¡¯s hoarse, panicked voice echoes. "Are you uncomfortable?" he loosened his embrace while turning on the night lamp. When the light finally brightened the room, he could see her smile. "You are not?" he feels relieved.


    "I¡¯m fine, but we must wake up now, Hubby. Let¡¯s congratulate Dax before he wakes up," Bella said while sitting. She glanced at the digital watch; it was the right time to wake her son.


    Usually, Dax wakes up at six. He practices his martial arts with Geoffrey. Even though he didn¡¯t have a class today, his biological clock would wake him up around that time.


    Bella has always been the first person Dax sees when he wakes up on his birthday; she doesn¡¯t want to miss that moment today.


    "Hurry, Hubby. Dax might get up now," Bella urged him to leave the bed.


    "Hmm, sure..." Tristan said. He was still sleepy, sitting on the edge of the bed, looking drowsy.


    Bella left Tristan as she entered the bathroom to freshen up and change from her nightgown to her comfortable home clothes: yoga pants and an oversized sweater.


    When she came out, she saw Tristan standing before the bathroom.


    "Isn¡¯t it too early to wake him up? Should we let him sleep more?" Tristan asked as he entered the bathroom and washed his face.


    "No. I usually did this in the past, so I won¡¯t lose this moment. Hubby, please don¡¯t forget to wear something..." Bella smiled, looking at her shirtless husband; he only wore his boxers.


    Tristan raised his hand to signal, "OK."


    Bella left him to finish his business. Hurriedly, she took her cell phone and called Noora to meet her upstairs while bringing the birthday cake they had prepared the night before.


    Not long after, they heard a soft knock on the door.


    Bella signaled Tristan to follow her. They met Noora and Geoffrey near Dax¡¯s bedroom; they had brought a medium-sized birthday cake.


    "Let me bring the cake," Tristan took the cake from Noora and lit the number 5 candle as he walked to Dax¡¯s room.


    Bella slowly opened the door and peered into Dax¡¯s pitch-dark room, where he seemed to be sleeping.


    She felt relieved that she had managed to enter before he woke up. She gestured for Geoffrey to turn on the light and asked them to sing "Happy Birthday to¡ª"


    "Mommy, Daddy, why are you so late?" Dax suddenly sat up in bed, shocking everyone. "I¡¯ve been waiting for you to come since ten minutes ago..." he continued, smiling at them.


    Bella chuckled inwardly as her plan failed. She ran after hugging her son and said, "My baby Daxton Donovan Sinclair, happy birthday. I pray God always grants you health and happiness..."


    After praying for Dax, she showered him with so many kisses.


    "Thank you, mom. But, Mommy, you promised you wouldn¡¯t call me Baby once I turned five." Dax calmly said. However, Bella wanted to cry upon hearing his words.


    She had indeed promised him that. But when she imagined her baby growing up so fast, she felt sad.


    "Hmm, I promise, from now on, I will never call you baby again."


    Dax smiled widely and returned his mother¡¯s embrace tightly.


    Tristan smiles as he looks at his wife and son cuddling. He also wants to throw himself on the bed, but he still carries the cake, and now the candle is almost gone.


    "Bella, let Dax blow the candle first," Tristan said.


    "Oh my, how could I forget? Yes, yes..." Bella said, loosening her embrace and making room for Tristan to sit beside her.


    "Alright, buddy. You can blow out the candle." Tristan smiles at his son lovingly.


    "Make a wish, Dax," Bella said hurriedly before Dax blew the candle.

 Chapter 510: Jack Is Definitely Not OK!

    Dax¡¯s birthday party is more like a family lunch gathering than the typical child¡¯s birthday party with a cartoon theme.


    No children other than the birthday boy will be at the party because Dax doesn¡¯t have friends of a similar age. Tristan and Bella¡¯s close friends in this city don¡¯t have kids. Some have kids, but they either live abroad or their child is too old to attend a five-year-old¡¯s birthday party.


    The birthday event will be held in the hall at the back of the house. The vast room is simply decorated with a long, beautiful table in the middle and fresh flowers enough to make the room feel like spring. A few sofa sets in the corners give it a hotel lounge feel.


    The hall has a massive glass wall that offers a view of the backyard scenery, including colorful fall leaves on the trees in the mountains.


    Bella originally wanted an outdoor party, but the city¡¯s temperatures are now in the single digits. She had no choice but to agree with Tristan to arrange an indoor party.


    Now, eleven o¡¯clock is still far, but she still has plenty of time to rest and enjoy her snack in the living room on the second floor.


    However, not long after, Noora informs her that Jack has finally arrived.


    Jack always surprises her. He appears without informing her. She thought he hadn¡¯t come because contacting him for the last few days had been difficult. Even when she asked Stefan, he said Jack was busy with a new project and couldn¡¯t be reached.


    Hurriedly, she headed to the living room and saw Jack sitting while reading something on his cell phone. He looked handsome as usual, but Bella could still see a sadness in his expression, different from the usual one as far as she could remember.


    "I thought you weren¡¯t coming, Jack." Bella smiled as she sat across from him.


    Jack shook his head slowly while running his finger on his eyebrows before answering, "How could I not come if I used to come to my nephew¡¯s birthday every year?"


    "Thank you, bro. You are the best uncle," Bella sincerely praised him. She could never repay Jack¡¯s kindness and support. He is her best friend and a loving brother figure that she never had before.


    "That¡¯s me!" Jack said while proudly smiling.


    Bella could only smile back at him. He is indeed correct.


    "And why are only the two of us here?" Jack frowned, looking around the empty living room.


    "Well, bro, you came so fast. This is not only ten," Bella laughed. "Did you come straight from the airport?"


    Jack cleared his throat before answering her, "Yeah. Where¡¯s the birthday boy and your hubby?" he asked. Earlier, when he arrived, he only met Noora.


    "Tristan and Dax are now in the backyard. They are doing man stuff with my Grandpa, Tristan¡¯s father. Do you want to join them?" Bella offered.


    Jack shook his head, clearly not interested in crashing Bella¡¯s family gathering.


    "Let¡¯s talk about you, Bella. How¡¯s your life lately?" he asked.


    "Same as before, I spend my day working from home. And I enjoy being pregnant with twins," Bella said while stroking her baby bumps, which were starting to get bigger. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I can see that. You look..." Jack paused to stifle a smile. "You look quite double now." When he saw her glare, he hurriedly diverted the conversation. "Anyway, congrats again, my friend, on your pregnancy. It looks like I need to prepare another gift for my incoming two nephews."


    Bella chuckled, "Tsk! Tsk! Jack, can you use more sincere words in your line if you¡¯re going to compliment me?"


    "Sorry, dear." He grinned, offering an apologetic expression. And somehow, she saw the trace of sadness flash through his eyes.


    Bella knows Sean must be sad now, remembering his child after his divorce. His sadness was double-folded when he knew he had no chance with Harper.


    "It¡¯s fine, Uncle. But make sure the present you want to give them is more expensive than what Dax gets from you," she teases him, trying to divert his sadness. "Oh, right, I forgot to ask. So, have you talked to Harper about her relocation here?"


    "Hmm, and you are right. She immediately accepts it," a sour smile frames Jack¡¯s face as he continues. "Do you want to hear her answer when I asked why she was suddenly interested in this country?"


    "Well, I already know that, and I warn you about it," Bella said.


    Jack couldn¡¯t help but laugh as he remembered a few days ago how sure he was that Harper wouldn¡¯t want to move to a small country like Astington.


    "Bella, I¡¯m too delusional to deny your words," Jack said, taking a deep, long sigh before continuing. "Well, Harper said her future is in this country. That¡¯s why she will grasp the opportunity to relocate here and build her future with the man she loves."


    "Are you alright?" Bella now worries about him; she clearly sees that Jack does not look OK. After a few of his right-hand people moved to this country, the woman he had worked with for a long time, his future plan to spend his old time, had also moved here and even found her other half.


    Jack didn¡¯t say anything but smile.


    "Do you want Sam to return as your second man?" Bella offered. If Sam returned to their headquarters, Jack might have Sam and Stefan by his side there, not only as his staff but also as his friends. He will be a lot less lonely.


    "I¡¯m OK. Please don¡¯t trouble Sam with that. Sam would find your offer hard to refuse because you asked for it, not because he liked it. He told me he wanted to retire in his country and would reject it if I asked. But if you ask it? He probably couldn¡¯t say no even when he wanted to say no.


    And I don¡¯t want to burden Sam with that." Jack explained. "However, I plan to call Leo to return to the headquarters after he stays here to assist Harper for a year."


    "Oh, Leo might refuse, too."


    Jack frowned, confused. "How dare he refuse me?!"

 Chapter 511: Tristan’s Concern for His Father’s Health

    Bella slightly frowned, looking at Jack. Gosh! It seems like Leo didn¡¯t tell him anything about Dana.


    "You didn¡¯t know?" she asked.


    "Know what?" Jack is even more confused.


    "Leo is dating his secretary, Dana. They are serious and might get married soon. So, I believe he will not return either. He might settle here, too. Just like Sam," Bella explained.


    The room fell silent for a moment. Bella didn¡¯t say anything; she just stared at Jack, who looked shocked upon hearing the news.


    A few moments later, Jack cleared his throat and said, "What the hell happened here? Why does everyone now have their other half in this country? Should I also move here and find my future wife?" he sarcastically expressed his current concern.


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    "Well, my dear friend, Jack Foster, you should try. Like Harper and Leo, you might end up settling in this country."


    "Yes, yes, I should consider that. I mean it..."


    "Hahaha¡ª" S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    At the same time, Tristan and the other men sat on the backyard patio, enjoying the gentle sun and engaging in conversation.


    Lewis Sinclair and Isaac Donovan caught up on their recent lives as they now live in different cities. Meanwhile, Dax sat in a single seat, engrossed in a coding game on his iPad.


    Tristan looked worried about his father¡¯s health, unable to divert his attention from his father sitting beside him.


    His father appeared thin, pale, and exhausted, with signs of illness taking a toll on him. His hair was gone due to his increasingly frequent battles with illness. He rarely left the house, only staying at home and fighting through the pain with the help of his medications.


    Seeing his father in such distress made Tristan increasingly concerned about his own health and lifestyle, prompting him to exercise more rigorously and eat healthier. He didn¡¯t want his son and Bella to experience the same sadness if he were to face a similar illness in the future.


    Tristan let out a deep sigh before leaning in closer to his father.


    "Father, you don¡¯t have to push yourself to join us for lunch. Not if you¡¯re in pain. Just stay home; Bella and Dax will understand," he whispered, not wanting Dax and the others to overhear their conversation.


    "I¡¯m fine, son. I feel perfectly healthy," William Sinclair smiled to reassure Tristan.


    William wasn¡¯t entirely honest with his son because now he felt like nameless pain tortured him inside; he endured it. He couldn¡¯t be absent from his grandson¡¯s birthday party, probably the first and last time he would attend.


    "But you don¡¯t look okay, Dad." Tristan wanted to say that, but his words stuck in his throat.


    Tristan turned his gaze to Dax and tried to distract himself from his worry about his father¡¯s health.


    ***


    Before long,


    At the party hall,


    A spacious lounge accommodated thirty people, a minibar with mainly kid-friendly beverages, and a candy and fruit bar.


    At around eleven in the evening, several families began to arrive. Natalie Wright, who now lives in Bella¡¯s old house at Little Heaven, arrived with Henry and Emma Donovan. They were all currently in the party hall.


    While sitting on the sofa, Emma Donovan updated Bella about The Donovan Group.


    The company is proceeding according to plan. Several projects are getting back on track, and the Sinclair Group is beginning to collaborate with the Donovan Group again. This collaboration has caused quite a stir in the industry in East City.


    Several companies previously severed ties with the Donovan Group, now knocking on their door again, wanting to reestablish the previous relationship, but Emma has declined their offers. Based on past experiences, they¡¯ve identified several companies with red flags that will not be their partners in the future.


    Bella was pleased to hear about the progress. However, she was surprised to learn the news about her two uncles.


    "Aunty Emma, how could the first uncle divorce his wife and now live with his mistress?" Bella was furious to hear that. Her uncle was so foolish to leave his wife.


    "Oh dear Bella, he didn¡¯t ask for the divorce. It was his wife who kicked him out. And the funny thing is, your uncle got nothing. My sister-in-law took all his property. Your uncle is now bankrupt, so he went to his mistress. And that woman was foolish enough to let Jacob live there."


    Bella gasped in surprise.


    "Jacob deserved it all," Natalie said, anger flashing through her eyes. "How could he have another child out of wedlock while still married to his wife? And he ruined the family company?"


    Bella slightly nodded but didn¡¯t ask anything further about her first uncle.


    "Aunty, how about Third Uncle?" Bella asked.


    "Thomas is doing well. He has come to see your Grandpa a few times, asking for a job. But, of course, your Grandpa didn¡¯t give him anything. And I heard recently that he started his own company with his wife¡¯s help." Emma explained.


    Bella smiled faintly. "At least he¡¯s not like my first uncle. He still has enough money."


    "You¡¯re right, Bella. Your third uncle can¡¯t do business, so I hope his wife helps him now. He¡¯s the nicest among his other siblings..." Emma said with a bitter smile, describing how foolish all her brothers were.


    "Alright, let¡¯s stop talking about them," Natalie said as she handed Bella another slice of cheesecake. "It¡¯s too depressing to talk about all of them."


    Bella and Emma nodded, agreeing with Natalie.


    While enjoying her cake, Bella¡¯s gaze was fixed on her brother Henry.


    She had been busy with office matters in the past few days, including dealing with her injury, so she hadn¡¯t had time to check on her brother.


    Bella could see that her brother looked healthy. He hadn¡¯t said anything since he arrived; he just greeted her. And now, her brother was looking over at Tristan and Jack, who were talking on the other sofa in the corner.


    Only by looking at his envious gaze, Bella could guess what he was thinking. Suddenly, the future plans she had set for her brother started to fill her mind again.

 Chapter 512: Henry’s Future Plans

    Bella stared at her brother and asked curiously, "How is your condition, brother? Are you feeling better now?"


    Emma and Natalie were also looking at Henry.


    Henry was surprised to hear Bella finally talking to him. He smiled at her, "Thank you for asking, Sister. Yes, I feel better now. The doctor also said I¡¯m healthy and can do normal activities, but must avoid lifting heavy things. Not for another couple of months or so," he explained.


    "Glad to hear that," Bella said. "So, are you ready to work?" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, sister. I¡¯m ready. Please assign me any work, sis. I promised you I would do better and give my all."


    Henry¡¯s eyes shone. Finally, he has the opportunity to prove to his sister and mother that he can change for the better. He does not want to disappoint them, especially after hearing what happened to their uncles. He didn¡¯t plan to be his sister¡¯s enemy because if he did that, he might end up like his uncle, penniless.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything right away. She glanced at her mother, who looked tense, waiting for her comment. So did Henry.


    "Aunty," Bella looked at Emma, "Is the first office of The Donovan Group that grandfather built in Lake View Village still active?"


    Emma immediately nodded, "Yes. That¡¯s a sub-branch office now, and it will never be closed even though there is not much work there anymore. It¡¯s too historical for our group to be closed down."


    "Yes, I agree. Would you mind sending my brother to work at that office? And please make sure no one knows about his true identity," Bella instructed.


    Emma was taken aback by Bella¡¯s words but didn¡¯t question her request. As the company¡¯s CEO, she must comply with the biggest shareholder¡¯s orders.


    "Yes, consider it done, dear..." Emma said.


    "Thank you, Aunty," Bella smiled at her before turning to her brother.


    "Brother, you seem uninterested!?" Bella asked, slightly frowning when she saw him gasping in shock. "So you didn¡¯t like that I sent you to a remote place like Lake View Village?"


    Henry quickly shook his head.


    "No, sister. I like it. I just can¡¯t believe you sent me there. I heard that the place is quite stable. I thought you would send me to the troubled office to deal with, but you sent me to the office with less work." He said.


    Henry wasn¡¯t sure the company could make money because the village was small, and most of the land was owned by rich people. What he had heard in the past was that their office in Lake View Town rarely got a project, and they were making money from the projects near the town.


    "That¡¯s why I sent you there: to revive that company and make it profitable and have so much work again like in the past," Bella smiled, seeing her brother looking confused. "Are you skeptical that a small town like that can¡¯t make money?"


    Bella continued speaking when she noticed her brother¡¯s silence.


    "I visited the village earlier this year and noticed numerous business opportunities for the Donovan Group. New land is being sold, and some plan to build resorts there. I have a list of landowners that plan to build their land; I can give you the list later..." Bella said. She had obtained valuable information about the town from Stefan a few months ago when considering buying land there.


    Henry was excited to hear this¡ªnot only Henry but Emma and Natalie, too. They didn¡¯t know that Bella already had a plan that far.


    "You could also develop services for maintaining old buildings, starting with Grandpa¡¯s house or my Grandfather-in-law..." Bella continued, explaining to her brother the business potential of Lake View Village and the town near the village.


    "Thank you, sister, for the information. I will do my best to achieve that goal," Henry promised. He couldn¡¯t wait to fly there and check the office.


    "I believe in you, Brother. But remember, you can¡¯t tell other people you are part of Donovan. I need you to learn from seniors who work there. Work well and learn as much as you can. I will give you three months to prove to me, Aunty Emma, and the others that you deserve to be transferred to the head office."


    "I will! Thank you, sis¡ª"


    As Bella talked to Henry, a few of Tristan and her friends finally arrived.


    The party hall became livelier.


    And the birthday boy, Dax, enjoyed his time and sat with Max and Dylan in the corner. Max was testing Dax¡¯s ability to solve an advanced code game.


    Sam, who arrived a few minutes ago, joins Tristan, Jack, Bryan, and Reid on another sofa. They look serious, discussing something that piques Bella¡¯s curiosity.


    After chatting about the company with Henry, Bella excuses herself to her mother and aunt. She is curious to join Tristan, but her steps stop when Leo and Dana arrive.


    She greets them, "Leo, Dana, thank you for coming. You can find your seats and enjoy the beverages and sweets over there. We will start lunch after all the guests arrive."


    "Don¡¯t mind us, Boss. I will greet the birthday boy first," Leo answers Bella and leads Dana to meet Dax.


    Leo ignores the sharp glare from his Boss, Jack, in the corner; he doesn¡¯t want to meet him now. He is still annoyed with him after reading his text message. Jack plans to cut his year-end bonus for unreasonable reasons, such as breaking office rules¡ªno romantic relationships in the office¡ªby dating his secretary. How shameless!


    ...


    Bella joined Tristan and the others, wondering why they were chatting so intensely.


    However, as soon as she settled beside Tristan, they stopped speaking; they all looked worried she might overhear their conversation.


    "Why are you guys stopping?" Bella asked, narrowing her eyes and looking at each of them one by one, starting with Tristan and Sam and ending with Jack, who sat on her other side.


    "You guys look suspicious. Are you hiding something from me?" she continued, now focusing her gaze on Tristan.

 Chapter 513: Valuable Information

    Tristan smiled and gently rubbed her nose as he responded, "Of course not, dear. What makes you think we are hiding something from you? Of course, we¡¯re not."


    Bella was less convinced hearing Tristan¡¯s words as she noticed the others had remained silent and continued to look tense.


    "You don¡¯t need to worry, gentlemen. My beautiful and clever wife knows about it. Well, she knew long before we did," Tristan said, smiling at Reid and Bryan, who looked at him in shock. "Thanks to Sam; he¡¯s the one who first recognized them..." He continued to explain.


    "Oh, I see. So you guys are talking about Dark Skull?" Bella rhetorically asked.


    "Yes, we are," Tristan answered her.


    "Did you say you already captured them and wiped out their base camp? Why do you guys look so worried if that¡¯s what happened?" Bella asked, looking at Reid and Bryan. She could tell from their gaze that they were both still stressed about Dark Skull.


    No one answered as if they were all trying to think of the right words to explain¡ªthey didn¡¯t want Tristan¡¯s pregnant wife to worry.


    Except for the clueless Sam, he nonchalantly answered his dear boss and direct superior, "They have not yet captured the Dark Skull¡¯s true leaders. I¡¯m sure you remember what I told you about Mad Dog, right?"


    Tristan and the others instantly sent their death glare to Sam. Still, Sam ignored them, his gaze fixed on Bella.


    "Y-Yes, I remember... He is so evil and slippery, like a mud eel, right? And no one could tell about his true face?"


    "Yeah, that one is tough. We had difficulty locating this scumbag when I was still in the army. I¡¯d imagined it would be even harder now."


    Tristan silently sighed deeply while cursing Sam to give Bella detailed information. He didn¡¯t hide Dark Skull from her but didn¡¯t plan to stress his pregnant wife with the detailed information about Mad Dog.


    Bella slowly feels her heartbeat racing when she realizes how dangerous the situation is. Her husband¡¯s enemy is still roaming free out there and could return to take revenge to harm them. She looks at Tristan in worry.


    However, before Bella could ask him anything, Tristan took her hand and leaned in to whisper to her.


    "Don¡¯t worry, dear. Even though Mad Dog is still out there, Jack has confirmed that the Mad Dog we are dealing with is the same as the one in their database. Jack has asked Stefan to send the valuable information to me. So everything will be alright, trust me."


    Bella still had doubts. She turned her worried gaze to Jack, "Don¡¯t try to lie to my husband, Jack! Were you certain that the person was the same as the Mad Dog my husband is dealing with?"


    "Absolutely!" Jack answers her and gives her an OK sign. "Even though their organization names differ, his nickname is the same. I just reconfirmed it with Stefan, who said they are the same person." Jack smiled to reassure Bella and make her less worried.


    "But why did Sam never tell me that we have their data!? You know we encountered them before establishing Sentinel in this country, right!?" Bella asked. It¡¯s hard for her to believe that Stefan never mentioned anything about Dark Skull. She remembers he helped Max trace their hacker.


    "Boss, I never told boss Jack or Stefan the specific information that we are dealing with the same person..." Sam is the one who answers her. "I also didn¡¯t know we had their information. I didn¡¯t ask Stefan to dig for more information at that time because we stopped our investigation."


    "Dear, I know you worry. But we only found out about Dark Skull in the last few days. When Stefan helped Max to trace the hacker who was curious about your database information, we still didn¡¯t know that we were dealing with Dark Skull." Tristan added to explain.


    "I see. That¡¯s great then..." She smiles at him, "Tristan, I hope you can capture this Mad Dog as soon as possible," Bella feels relieved that now her husband knows the identity of Mad Dog, the true leader of the Dark Skull. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sure, my love..." Tristan gently tapped her hand. "No need to worry. Once we get information, we will make a move."


    Bella didn¡¯t ask further; she only heard their plan to capture Mad Dog as their priority.


    ***


    Before long,


    The bustling hall fell silent as another guest arrived. While the others appeared surprised, Bella¡¯s smile widened as she stood up, delighted to see Sean and Harper finally there.


    Bella quickly made her way over to them as they stood awkwardly near the entrance. They seemed surprised, likely thinking that everyone had already arrived.


    "Oh my goodness! Why did you guys come so late?" Bella exclaimed as she embraced Harper warmly and whispered, "Congratulations, my dear best friend... I¡¯m so happy for you. You finally tame him."


    "Thank you, Bella. It feels like I¡¯m living in my dream," Harper whispered, giggling.


    Bella¡¯s gaze fell on Sean. She could see him looking nervous and shy for the first time after so many years. She released her embrace of Harper before offering Sean a firm handshake. Her happy smile grew broader, and she was proud of him. Her best friend, Sean, finally dared open his heart to Harper.


    "Congrats, Sean. I hope you take good care of my best friend and be together forever. Please, please never hurt her." Bella took a deep breath before continuing, "Even though she appears independent and strong, she has a weak heart. She might be broken to pieces if you hurt her."


    Bella hopes these two of her best friends will have happy endings, too, like her and Tristan.


    Sean smiles back at Bella, "Thank you, Bella. Don¡¯t worry, I will do that without you asking me..." He said while glancing at Harper.


    Bella giggled as she saw Harper blush, just like Sean. She didn¡¯t bother to speak to Sean again. Instead, she asked Sean to join Tristan and the others while she dragged Harper to another corner.


    There were so many things she wanted to chat with her about.


    After they settled in the quiet place in the corner, Bella immediately asked her to spill everything to her.

 Chapter 514: A Nervous Harper

    After finding a quiet spot in the corner, Bella immediately asked Harper to tell her everything. However, Harper ignored Bella and kept her eyes fixed on Sean.


    "Oh, come on, Harper Reed, can you stop staring at him? He¡¯s not going to disappear, you know!?" Bella shook her head. She found it amusing how different Harper was when she was in love.


    Harper narrowed her eyes slightly, still fixed on a specific direction and ignoring Bella.


    "Alright, speak now, dear. We don¡¯t have much time; we only wait for Tristan¡¯s guests. And I believe you¡¯ll be awkward when you see them," Bella urged. Her words finally made Harper turn her head nervously as she grasped Bella¡¯s hands.


    But Bella immediately pulled her hand from Harper¡¯s grasp. "Ouch!" she softly shouted in pain when Harper held her injured hand.


    "What is it, Bella?" Harper was stunned when she saw Bella pull her hand. "Oh my God, your injured hand still hasn¡¯t healed? I¡¯m sorry, dear. Did I hurt you?"


    "It¡¯s healed, but not completely..." Bella said, looking at her palm; the scars were still visible.


    "Sorry, girl..." Harper felt terrible seeing that her delicate hands now had visible scars.


    "Alright, stop worrying about my hand. Why do you look like a teenager with a crush?"


    Harper took a deep, long sigh. She quickly glanced in Sean¡¯s direction again before looking at Bella, "I¡¯m not looking at Sean, but Jack. Why does he look so hateful towards Sean? His gaze was like he wanted to swallow my man."


    Bella struggled to contain her laughter as she saw how upset Harper was. "Gosh, Harper... Did you really forget about it?"


    "Forget about what?"


    "Seriously, you forgot?" When Bella noticed Harper¡¯s deepening frown, she continued. "You promised Jack you would marry him if you were still single at thirty-five? Forty?"


    "WHAT THE HELL!" Harper couldn¡¯t help but curse. She rolled her eyes and shot a quick, sinister glance at Jack before turning back to Bella.


    "So, you remember?" Bella smiled.


    "Jeez, Jack Foster, how could he remember that promise? We made it when we were drunk. Besides, he¡¯s been married before. Even though he is now divorced, he is no longer a bachelor, right?"


    "Yeah, but he still remembers those vows because you guys sealed it with a kiss¡ª" Bella¡¯s voice suddenly disappeared when Harper quickly covered her mouth with her hand. She widened her eyes and protested to Harper.


    "Please, never spill those embarrassing memories, alright?" Harper said with pleading eyes while slowly pulling her hand away.


    "Ok, ok, I promise," Bella said, no longer teasing her.


    "Thank you, girl."


    Bella waved her hand before saying, "Don¡¯t mind, Jack. He¡¯s only upset because we all now reside in this country. At the same time, he¡¯s alone in New York, with no friends and no wife. He protested earlier to me because she would be lonely."


    "Yeah, I feel sorry for him. But we can¡¯t do anything to help him..." Harper took a deep breath. She still couldn¡¯t believe that Jack¡¯s wife would have the heart to cheat on him. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hmm, he will heal over time. Give him some time," Bella said, glancing at Jack. She could see from his expression that he really despised Sean.


    Harper didn¡¯t say more. She could only take a deep sigh.


    "Alright, let¡¯s forget about Jack. Tell me about you and Sean. How did he ask you out and tell me about when you met his mother?" Bella was very curious to hear about it. This was a big moment for her best friend, and she wanted to hear all about it.


    "Bella, I never understand why you never fell in love with such a gentle and sweet man," Harper narrowed her eyes at Bella. If she could, she wanted to read how her mind worked. How could she avoid Sean¡¯s heart after so many years?


    "Oh dear, why do you ask again?" Bella smiled while looking her in the eyes. "Harper, I¡¯ve often told you I cannot force love. If forced to love him, I will only hurt him and, simultaneously, myself."


    "I know. I just can¡¯t believe you never fell for him."


    "I also don¡¯t know why. But maybe when I first met him, he became a brother figure in my heart and mind. Or maybe..." Bella smiled with her own thoughts now.


    "Maybe what?" Harper asked curiously, looking at a teasing smile that appeared on Bella¡¯s lips.


    "Maybe God already decided Sean is not for me but for you," Bella replied.


    Harper¡¯s smile grew wider as she said, "Well, despite that... I feel happy and grateful you never fell for him, or I will end up with Jack."


    Bella was speechless. She could only smile at her. "Now tell me, how did he express his feelings?"


    Harper blushed as she recounted everything to Bella.


    "Well, we started a strange relationship. The day I came to this country, he was honest with me. He told me about his feelings that he didn¡¯t love me yet, but he would try and promise to only think about me."


    Harper grabbed Bella¡¯s arms. "Arrgh, he is so sweet. I don¡¯t mind if he tells me that because I know his story with you. At least he¡¯s honest with me, right?"


    "Yeah, that¡¯s a good sign. He is serious about you, Harper. I¡¯m so happy for you, dear."


    Harper nodded while continuing to share everything with Bella.


    However, before Harper could tell about how she met Sean¡¯s mother, suddenly, several steps could be heard coming from the entrance, and soon, several figures appeared, making her pause to continue her words.


    "B-Bella, they are coming¡ª" Harper whispered. Her hand instantly felt cold. Her eyes looked at Isaac Donovan and Lewis Sinclair, who were now walking inside while talking to Jayson Spencer and his wife, Emily Stearn.


    "Let¡¯s greet them," Bella excitedly said. She stood up.


    But before she could walk, she was surprised to see Harper¡¯s expression looking bad; she looked colorless.


    "Don¡¯t be nervous, Harper. You will become their daughter-in-law soon; you should get used to it." Bella said, trying to ease Harper¡¯s tension.


    "Hmm, you are right, Bella," Harper smiled back at Bella as she stood.


    They approached, and at the same time, Tristan joined them to greet Sean¡¯s parents.


    "Thank you for coming, Jayson and Emily. I¡¯m so happy you managed to spare your hectic time to come to my son¡¯s birthday party," Tristan greeted them politely with a warm embrace.


    "Hahaha, oh, come on, Tristan. No way in the world I would miss any personal invitation from you," Jayson said. "Where¡¯s the birthday boy?"


    Bella immediately turned to find Dax. A smile appeared on her lips as she saw Dax walking toward them and holding hands with Sean.


    After Bella greeted Jayson Spencer and Emily Stearn, she also whispered at Dax to greet them.


    "Daxton, greet Uncle Jayson and Aunty Emily. They are Dad and Mommy¡¯s friends... and also Uncle Sean¡¯s parents," Bella said; however, seconds later, she was confused hearing her own words.


    Not only did Bella feel confused, but her Daxton, too. He looked at the two people before him with a thin line on his forehead. This caused Bella to lean closer to him.


    "Is there something you want to say, dear?" She asked in a hushed tone, clearly enough for the others nearby to hear.


    Dax turned his gaze at his mother before saying, "Mommy, if Uncle Jayson and Aunt Emily are Uncle Sean¡¯s parents, Shouldn¡¯t I call them Grandma and Grandpa?" he asked, his round eyes blinking several times before looking at Sean. "Is that right, Uncle Sean?"


    Sean was surprised by Dax¡¯s question. He was confused about why Bella greeted her parents like that; he wanted to ask but put aside his curiosity.


    "Of course. If you think you should greet them as Grandpa and Grandma, then I agree with you, Dax," Sean said, smiling at Dax.


    Dax turned to see his father, still worried that he had addressed them improperly. "Dad, are you okay if I call them Grandpa and Grandma?"


    "Hmm, I don¡¯t see the problem, buddy. So go ahead," Tristan said, then turned to see Jayson and Emily smile at them.


    Jayson Spencer laughed when he heard the little man¡¯s brilliant question. He moved forward and leaned toward Dax.


    "Yes, yes, Dax, you can call me that." Jayson then offered Dax a friendly handshake and embraced him, which surprised him.


    Dax awkwardly smiled in Jayson¡¯s embrace. He couldn¡¯t refuse him because this man was Sean¡¯s father.


    Jayson Spencer released his embrace and looked Dax in the eyes. "I hear your mom is my son¡¯s friend. And you seem close to him?"


    "Yes, sir. We are close," Dax answered shyly.


    "Alright, Jayson. Don¡¯t make little Dax afraid of you," Emily interrupted her husband and pulled him behind. She then warmly embraced the little one.


    "Oh dear, I¡¯m so happy to finally meet you. Happy birthday, Daxton. I brought so many gifts for you. I hope you like them."


    "Thank you, ma¡¯am¡ª"


    "Grandma... Just call me Grandma, okay, dear," Emily smiled, looking at the little man holding Tristan¡¯s hand tightly.


    Knowing little Dax was uncomfortable, Emily no longer made Dax shy and afraid; he let her chat with Tristan while she turned to see Harper.


    However, while talking to Harper, Emily¡¯s mind began to plan to arrange their wedding soon. She wants to have adorable grandchildren from them.

 Chapter 515: I’ve Become Forgetful Lately

    After warmly greeting everyone, Tristan invited them to celebrate Daxton¡¯s birthday before they took their lunch.


    Dax blew out the candles on a solar system-themed chocolate cake for the second time in a day.


    Then, they all started having a lively lunch. There was no longer any awkwardness among the guests, just like earlier when they found out that Jayson Spencer, the country¡¯s president, had come to this lunch party and sat and enjoyed lunch with them. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jayson Spencer engaged in light conversation with all of them, just like he talks and eats with close friends. Everyone was stunned to see him being so friendly.


    They thought Jayson Spencer¡¯s image in the media was just a public image, but it seems they were wrong. He liked smiling and handling a conversation well without causing any awkwardness. His attitude was the opposite of his son, Sean Spencer, who looked cold and rarely spoke.


    Not only Sean, who didn¡¯t speak much during this lovely lunch, but Harper was too. She still felt uncomfortable and nervous sitting between Sean and his mother.


    And, the image of how formally Jayson Spencer greeted her earlier still lingered in her mind. As she ate her lunch, countless questions danced in her mind.


    ¡¯Did he notice I¡¯m dating his son? Why does he seem not to like me?¡¯


    Harper tried to find the answer in her mind, but she couldn¡¯t find anything to make her feel better. All the answers that appeared now were the same: Jayson Spencer didn¡¯t like her.


    ¡¯Why didn¡¯t he like me? I remember Sean saying his father was nicer. But why does he look so cold at me?¡¯


    Harper silently sighed, trying hard to act as usual and enjoy her lunch. Still, her nervous mind failed her miserably, and she felt all the food taste nearly bland in her mouth, which she knew was not true. It¡¯s just that her mind was too stressed.


    Sean could feel Harper¡¯s anxiety tensing up as he sat beside her. He glanced at her while gently patting her back, surprising her.


    Harper turned to see him with a slight frown on her forehead. But her worry and awkwardness slowly faded when she saw his calm hazel eyes and warm smile.


    However, her heart started to race when she saw him leaning closer and closer to her.


    ¡¯My gosh! Sean is about to kiss me,¡¯ Harper swallowed. ¡¯What is he thinking!? Why did he want to have our first kiss here? When is everyone around?¡¯


    Harper¡¯s heartbeat became faster and more profound. She slowly closed her eyes, waiting for the magical moment she always dreamed of. Now, she no longer cares about the other people around them; she would not refuse this moment, kissing him for the first time.


    However, Harper¡¯s imagination crumbled instantly as Sean¡¯s barely audible voice could be heard near her ears, "Eat more, don¡¯t stress about anything."


    ¡¯Darn it, my mind is playing tricks on me again,¡¯ Harper scolded herself, embarrassed. ¡¯Why did I think he was going to kiss me? Please forgive my dirty mind, God.¡¯ She hides her blushing face.


    "Hmm, I will," she answered softly, trying to enjoy her slice of grilled meat again.


    Fortunately, the warm lunch finally ended a few moments later.


    They all moved to the lounge again while continuing their chat.


    Harper now talked with Sean¡¯s parents.


    Tristan and his other friends also engaged in earnest conversation.


    At the same time, Natalie Wright and Emma Donovan joined Dana and Leo in the corner.


    Bella didn¡¯t stay in the room for long; she excused herself to accompany Dax back to his room. Her son needed to rest. He had spent his time since dawn until now. It was almost two in the afternoon, and he looked exhausted and needed to nap.


    As they left the hall, Bella ran into William Sinclair, her father-in-law. She was surprised to see him leaving the room as well. Earlier, she had seen him still talking with her Grandpa and Geoffrey.


    "Father, do you want to go back home?" Bella asked.


    William Sinclair stopped and smiled at Bella and Dax.


    "Yes, I need to rest a bit. I will come back for dinner and play with Dax," William Sinclair said, winking at Dax and rubbing his soft hair.


    Dax smiled at him and said, "Grandpa, I will come to your house. You don¡¯t have to come here; you look exhausted..."


    Bella agreed with Dax. She felt concerned about William¡¯s health lately. She had heard from Tristan that William¡¯s illness was getting worse, and it seemed that Jessica¡¯s case had devastated him.


    "You can rest in the guest room, Father. I will ask Noora to lead you to the room," Bella offered.


    "It¡¯s fine, Bella. I also need to take my vitamins. I¡¯m getting old; I¡¯ve become forgetful lately. I should have brought them today, but I didn¡¯t," William Sinclair smiled at her. "Alright, Alright, I will go now. See you again, little man.


    Go...take your nap. You look so sleepy."


    "See you, Grandpa..."


    "Take care, Father..." Bella said. She still worried that William Sinclair refused her offers; she knew he needed his medicine, not vitamins. "If you need anything, please ask Geoffrey."


    "Sure, dear..."


    Bella and Dax didn¡¯t immediately walk to the second floor. They stood there, watching William Sinclair walk away and later disappear at the backyard door.


    "Mommy, why does Grandpa look so pale? Is he sick!?" Dax asked as they walked to the second floor.


    Bella was taken aback by Dax¡¯s question. They had not yet told Dax about his Grandpa¡¯s cancer, but this little man seemed to have started to realize it. Now, she was confused about whether to say it to him now or for another, more private time.


    She took a deep breath and smiled at him. "Mmm, your Grandpa has health problems, but he will get it through. He is a strong man."


    Dax¡¯s expression slowly turned sad.


    "No wonder. Every time I go to Grandpa¡¯s house, he looks like he¡¯s in pain. I thought he was just tired of playing with me."


    "Maybe don¡¯t force him to play physical games next time?" Bella smiled at him, trying to lift his mood.


    "Yeah, I just need to play chess with him, just like great-grandpas..." Dax said.


    "Yeah, that¡¯s a great idea, dear."

 Chapter 516: Gathering Instead Of A Birthday Party

    Bella didn¡¯t stay long in Dax¡¯s room because the cute boy rested his head on the pillow and immediately fell asleep. One of the things she envied about her son was that he could sleep so fast and almost anywhere.


    When Bella arrived downstairs, she was surprised to see Geoffrey appear with Carlos Montana.


    "Carlos, you¡¯re here? I thought you weren¡¯t coming. Thank you for coming," Bella was confused to see him appear when the lunch gathering had ended an hour before.


    "Hello, Bella. I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t come on time. I was about to leave the hospital when suddenly I had an emergency surgery called. Well, I called Tristan earlier, but he didn¡¯t answer my phone. He must¡¯ve been swamped with the guests." Carlos said apologetically


    "It¡¯s okay, Carlos. Yeah, Tristan was probably busy talking with every guest. People told me it has been a while since Tristan had a soiree." Bella smiled at him. "And please, Carlos. You don¡¯t have to apologize; saving a life is paramount compared to other things. So, thank you for coming even when you were quite busy saving lives at the hospital."


    Carlos delightfully smiled back at her praise before asking, "By the way, Bella, where¡¯s Dax? I brought a gift for him." He pointed to the shopping bag in Geoffrey¡¯s hand.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Carlos, but Dax had just taken his evening nap upstairs. You shouldn¡¯t trouble yourself by bringing a gift for Dax, Carlos. You don¡¯t have to..."


    Bella usually asks for gifts from Jack and Harper because they are so close to her. But for other people, she feels terrible about letting them bring something, especially if the gift is expensive.


    "Hahaha, no need to be sorry, Bella. The Birthday Boy must¡¯ve been very tired after the party. This is my first time giving Dax a gift. Please don¡¯t refuse it¡ªit¡¯s not expensive either. Tristan told me how you hated expensive gifts," Carlos explained.


    "Alright. Only this time, I will accept. Thank you so much, Carlos," Bella smiled at him. "Alright, let¡¯s go in the hall. The other guests are still there. But, if you want to eat something, let me ask Geoffrey¡ª"


    "No need, Bella. I already had my late lunch in the car. I came because I just want to meet Dax and Tristan."


    Bella said nothing more as she led Carlos to enter the party hall.


    "Oh, wow! Tristan invited the president, Jayson Spencer, to Dax¡¯s birthday party?" Carlos whispered to Bella.


    "Well, this is more like a family and friends gathering instead of a birthday party."


    "Tsk! Tristan Sinclair is such a big shot in this country!" Carlos shook his head and approached Tristan.


    Bella smiled happily as she saw her friends, Tristan¡¯s friends, and her entire family chatting with each other.


    She felt grateful to witness such a sight.


    ***


    A week later, after Dax¡¯s birthday, the air in Fort City felt colder and cloudier, causing Bella to go out rarely. Even though she had lived in a cold country for over five years, she still hated this season.


    Bella felt like her life had been moving slowly lately. She usually spent her days eating, sleeping, or working in her home office, only a few meters from her bedroom.


    When the sun came out, she walked in the forest behind the house with Dax or stopped by her mother¡¯s house, a small guest house on the forest¡¯s edge, only a five-minute walk from the main house. Her mother had moved there four days ago after Henry flew back to East City to start working at Donovan Group.


    Meanwhile, Tristan was busy with his business as the year was coming to an end. After breakfast, he would go to the office and return near dinner. This week, he had to go out of town or stay overnight twice to visit companies in a neighboring country.


    Just like today, Tristan had to fly to another city early in the morning and wouldn¡¯t return until midnight.


    Bella glanced at her watch. It was only ten, and there wasn¡¯t much work for her because Harper had started her new role as acting CEO of Quantum Capital before she resigned at the end of the year, just a few weeks away.


    Glancing at the blue sky outside, Bella decided to walk outside and bathe under the bright, warm sun.


    After putting on her green puff tech jacket, Bella walked out of her office and met Noora, who had emerged from Dax¡¯s bedroom.


    "Are you hungry, Young Miss?" Noora asked, hurriedly approaching Bella. It was rare to see her leave the office before lunchtime.


    Bella shook her head. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m not hungry but want to walk outside while the sun is still bright," Bella responded as she walked towards the stairs.


    "I see. Let me accompany you..." Noora walked beside her down the stairs.


    "Where is Dax?" Bella asked, glancing at Noora beside her.


    "Dax went straight to his grandmother¡¯s house after his morning class. I think Old Madam said she would make a chocolate tiramisu cake for him," Noora replied.


    Bella silently sighed, imagining that her son could become overweight again if her mother fed him sweet treats every day.


    "Are you planning to see Old Madam and Dax, Young Miss?" Noora asked.


    "Hmm, if your chore is done, let¡¯s go there together, Aunty," Bella responded. She wanted to spend time with her mother and didn¡¯t want her to feel lonely.


    "I have finished my chore, Young Miss," Noora replied.


    "One more thing, Aunty Noora. Please call me Bella or Young Madam, not Young Miss. I think with Dax and the incoming Twins, I¡¯m too old for you to call me Young Miss. Agree?" Bella politely protested as she narrowed her eyes at Noora.


    Noora grinned, "Yes, yes, young madam..." She always wanted to call her like that, but every time she tried, her tongue slipped again to call her Young Miss.


    "Thank you, Aunty. You are the best aunty I¡¯ve ever had," Bella said, grabbing Noora¡¯s arm as she continued on her way to her mother¡¯s house.

 Chapter 517: The Calm Before The Storm

    As they got closer to Natalie¡¯s house, Noora suddenly remembered something.


    "Oh, one more thing, young madam. You¡¯re already going into your second trimester, right?"


    Bella nods.


    "How are you feeling now? Are there any new or different feelings with your first trimester?" Noora asked, glancing at Bella¡¯s baby bump.


    "Aunty, I feel much better being pregnant now than when I was pregnant with Dax," Bella smiled at Noora while caressing her baby bumps.


    Bella continues, "I don¡¯t feel any morning sickness, and I don¡¯t have trouble sleeping. Lately, I just want to sleep all the time and am too lazy to move. I¡¯m worried that if I let myself like this, I will become a pregnant pig by the time I¡¯m thirty weeks..."


    Noora giggled upon hearing her last words. "Well, young madam, I bet you would not become a pig. Most likely a beautiful pregnant cow¡ª" Noora¡¯s words faded when Bella glared at her. "Hahaha, I¡¯m just kidding, young madam."


    "Not a pregnant cow, but maybe a pregnant elephant?" Bella chuckled at her own words.


    "Well, young madam, you can decide later what you want to become...cow or elephant," Noora chuckled before continuing, "But, you know what? Because you are happier now, your pregnancy does not trouble you like you were pregnant with Dax."


    Noora gently patted Bella¡¯s hand, feeling grateful that her young madam now lives a much better life than she did a few years ago.


    "Yeah, that could be the reason, too, I think. Well, at least now, I¡¯m so happy. Not only me, you and Dax, too," Bella stopped her step and turned to see Noora. "Aunty, I feel like God has granted me everything I dreamt of in the past." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Noora felt her eyes blur with tears, her happy emotions welling up.


    "Young madam, Bella, I am delighted to always be by your side in every step of your life. I watched you at your lowest point in life until finally, all the sadness passed, and there was only happiness waiting for you, like now," Noora said in a trembling voice.


    Noora couldn¡¯t hold back her emotions, remembering how life had hit Bella so hard in the past. She feels grateful that her young madam could survive and strike back to claim her happiness.


    Bella felt her heart squeeze, looking at Aunty Noora cry before her. She couldn¡¯t help but cry, too.


    After a few minutes, they cried, pouring out their happiness. Bella finally wiped the tears from her cheeks.


    "Oh, don¡¯t make me cry again, Aunty Noora. I don¡¯t want to cry on this bright day. Look... Aunty, the sky looks much brighter and bluer today."


    Bella tried to distract her mind, looking up to see the sky. She worried that if someone saw them crying now, they might think something had happened to them.


    "Alright, alright, I will stop. Ugh, I¡¯m not trying to make you sad. But you are right... Today was a bright day after a few cloudy days. We shall not cry on this day!" Noora said while erasing the trace of her tears.


    "Hmm..." Bella smiled at her. She feels blessed to have this woman beside her. "Aunty, will we get snow sooner?" she asked, looking at the autumn color leaf in the distance. It looks pretty and mesmerizing.


    "I don¡¯t think so. It¡¯s too early to predict. I remember it snowing in the city in early December."


    Bella smiled, agreeing with her, "You know what, Aunty? I can¡¯t wait to give birth in spring!"


    "Me too..." Noora¡¯s eyes beamed as she looked at Bella. "What¡¯s more, I feel lonely lately because my young master, Dax, has been so busy. He rarely spends his day with me. Either he is busy with his daily activities, or he will be busy spending his time with Geoffrey or his Granny." She shrugs.


    "Aunty, are you jealous of them?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh when she saw Noora¡¯s sour expression.


    Noora chuckled, "My honest answer is YES! I¡¯m jealous of them. They stole my baby, Dax. I spent less time with Dax lately, young madam."


    "Well, you are now busy with me, right?"


    "Fortunately, you didn¡¯t leave me either. I know it is a tough time for you when there is only you, Dax, and me, but sometimes I miss those times," Noora smiles.


    "Aunty, don¡¯t worry if you are not as busy as before. You will be busy in May once the twins are born. Prepare yourself mentally and physically..." Bella giggles as they stop right before her mother¡¯s house door.


    "Do you know the twin¡¯s gender, young madam? Boy, Girl?" Noora asked curiously. All this time, Bella never told them about it; she just declared they were expecting twins.


    Bella¡¯s smile widened as she answered Noora, "Both¡ª"


    Noora¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. She was too shocked to hear that. "Waah, I¡¯m so happy for you and Master Tristan. Congratulations..."


    "Thank you so much, Aunty¡ª"


    When Bella and Noora were about to enter the house, Geoffrey¡¯s voice from behind stopped them in their tracks.


    Bella turned to see Geoffrey running towards her with an unusual, tense expression. His face, usually friendly and calm, now showed confusion and fear.


    Her heart felt like it had stopped beating, and she knew something terrible had happened.


    She walked away from her mother¡¯s house and asked him, "What happened, Geoffrey?"


    Geoffrey did not answer her immediately. He gestured for Noora to come closer before turning to face Bella again. With a calm but shaky voice, he said, "Young Madam, I received a call from Daniel..."


    Bella¡¯s body stiffened when she heard Daniel¡¯s name, her father-in-law¡¯s butler. Her mind immediately went to William Sinclair. Did something happen to him?


    "Master William lost consciousness. Now, he is on his way to the hospital. I¡¯m unsure what happened because Daniel didn¡¯t have time to explain..."


    Bella¡¯s hand squeezed Noora¡¯s arm tightly, trying to keep her body from falling as she felt her knees turning soft. It took a few moments before Bella could respond to Geoffrey.


    "Have you called my husband?" Bella¡¯s voice trembled as fear slowly gripped her heart. This is the fear she and Tristan always talk about when William can no longer fight his illness.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. I called him right away. Master Tristan said he has canceled his entire schedule and is preparing to fly back."


    "I see..." Bella¡¯s eyes felt blurry as tears began to flow from the corners of her eyes.


    "Young ma¡¯am¡ª" Noora felt worried when she saw Bella¡¯s pale features.


    "Geoffrey, let¡¯s go to the hospital now," Bella said.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am."


    Bella turned to Noora, "Please stay home with Dax and Mom. But don¡¯t tell Dax about it."


    Noora nods. Her hand trembled as she led Bella back to the main house.

 Chapter 518: Rush To The Hospital

    At SG Cancer Hospital.


    This is the second time Bella has arrived at this cancer facility. The first time was when her mother underwent breast cancer surgery, and now she¡¯s back for the second time.


    Walking into the hospital, she felt like she was trudging through mud. Her steps were heavy, and her heart felt tight.


    What¡¯s troubling her now is Tristan; she imagines he must be feeling sad about his father. She was also worried that Lewis Sinclair was not in town when William¡¯s condition worsened.


    As they enter the elevator and head to the fifth floor, Bella glances at Geoffrey. She asks, "Have you managed to contact Grandpa Lewis?"


    "I called his butler, Alan, to update him about the situation. But I¡¯m not sure when they¡¯ll arrive here. I heard they visited Old Madam¡¯s graveyard," Geoffrey explained with an apparent solemn expression.


    "I see..." Bella no longer asks anything. Her eyes flicker above the door, focused on the number. She feels tense to know her father-in-law¡¯s current condition.


    Soon, the elevator finally arrived at the fifth floor.


    The floor seemed empty; no other patients could be seen, only a few guards in a few corners and a few nurses walking in the corridor or sitting at the counter near the lounge. Geoffrey led Bella down the left-wing corridor as if he knew where to go.


    Later, Daniel appeared from a room near the end of the corridor. When he approached them, he wore Geoffrey¡¯s worried and tense expression.


    "Young madam," Daniel politely greeted Bella and gestured for them to follow him to William Sinclair¡¯s room.


    "How is my father-in-law, Daniel?" Bella asked.


    "Ma¡¯am, he was awake for a few minutes when we arrived here, but the pain he felt was unbearable; he lost consciousness again," Daniel said in a solemn expression.


    Daniel continued to explain, "The doctor decided to let him rest and gave him painkillers and sleeping medication. We hope he can be less in pain before Old Master and Master Tristan arrive."


    Bella nodded, agreeing with the doctor to let her father-in-law sleep. She could imagine how much he suffered from the nameless pain that tormented him from inside.


    Standing by the bed, looking at how thin and pale William Sinclair had become, Bella couldn¡¯t describe how sad she felt. Daniel had told her about her father-in-law¡¯s immense suffering, but he never expressed anything to them. He hides his suffering.


    Tristan also said that his father blamed himself for what happened in the past. William believed his illness was a punishment from God for causing the downfall of their family by bringing a veiled woman into the family. For that reason, William never complained or whined about his illness to Tristan or Lewis Sinclair. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡¯Father, I hope you are alright... I hope God takes away this illness. Please stay alive; you should see your other grandchild, huh!?¡¯ Bella prayed in her heart, hoping that God would take away William¡¯s illness and stop torturing him.


    "Ma¡¯am..." Geoffrey¡¯s voice pulled Bella back from her sorrow. She turned to look at him with teary eyes.


    "Yes?" she asked while trying to hold her tears.


    "Please take a rest first," Geoffrey said as he led her to the sofa set in the corner.


    "How about Tristan? Is there any news?" Bella asked after sitting on the single sofa. She knows her husband only needs forty minutes to fly to this city.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. I got a text from Dylan informed that they landed and are now heading to this hospital," Geoffrey explained.


    Bella nodded weakly as she sighed deeply, feeling somewhat relieved that Tristan had finally arrived.


    "Geoffrey, did you notice if I brought my bag here?" Bella asked. She completely forgot whether she had brought her bag.


    When she left their house, her mind was preoccupied with her father-in-law. She was frightened to imagine he would leave them forever with no family around him. That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t care about anything; she just wanted to arrive at this place sooner.


    "Noora gave me your bag earlier. I placed it in the waiting room outside," Geoffrey said.


    She only smiled, looking at Geoffrey out of the room.


    "Ma¡¯am, do you want to drink something?" Daniel approached her.


    "No, I don¡¯t need anything. But please check where Grandpa Lewis is now," she instructed.


    "Yes, ma¡¯am. I will check," Daniel said and left.


    Later, Geoffrey returned with Bella¡¯s bag before leaving the room.


    Bella knew they were busy arranging something, and she didn¡¯t plan to make them even more busy to take care of her.


    She checked her cell phone and saw a few missed calls and text messages from Tristan and Noora.


    Bella read Tristan¡¯s text, in which he informed her that he was boarding and asked her not to panic or be sad. This touched Bella; she felt she should give him strength, not vice versa.


    ¡¯Hubby, why are you still acting strong? I hope you show me your vulnerable side, too, huh?¡¯ Bella silently cried as she read Tristan¡¯s text message. But later, she tried hard to stop crying; she didn¡¯t want Tristan to see her cry.


    Bella tried to distract her mind as she continued reading a text from Aunty Noora.


    A smile appeared on her lips as soon she saw Noora¡¯s text.


    "Young Madam, I know you will be busy there. But please don¡¯t skip your lunch. If Geoffrey didn¡¯t buy you lunch, no worries; I already packed a few snacks and milk in your bag. And don¡¯t stress so much...I know Master William will be fine! I will pray harder for him!"


    Bella checked her bag and found a few chocolate bars, healthy energy bars, and two small milk boxes.


    She immediately reply Noora¡¯s text:


    "Aunty Noora, thank you so much. Please continue to pray for my father-in-law. And please get in touch with Nick. Tell him about my father-in-law¡¯s condition. If Grandpa has time, ask him to come to this city."


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt her Grandpa should come. She thought Tristan¡¯s Grandpa might need his best friend here.

 Chapter 519: Her Silent Comfort Calmed His Heart

    Bella felt drowsy after finishing her chocolate bar and a milk box. She looked at the bed several times to see if her father-in-law was awake, but there was no sign that he had moved. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She didn¡¯t see Daniel or Geoffrey enter the room either; they were still busy outside or waiting for Tristan and Lewis¡¯s arrival.


    Not long after, Bella could hear a few pairs of feet rushing to the room from the door. She immediately stood up, wondering if it must be Tristan.


    But Bella¡¯s step halted when she saw that it was not Tristan but Lewis Sinclair, a doctor, and two male nurses entering the room. Alan and Geoffrey followed them behind but stopped near the door.


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately greet Lewis Sinclair; she let him see William¡¯s condition. She walked to Geoffrey and stood beside him.


    "Any news from Tristan?" she whispered, not wanting Lewis to notice her and distract the doctor, who explained William¡¯s condition.


    "Ma¡¯am, Master Tristan has just arrived. He is on the elevator heading to this floor," Geoffrey answered her in his low tone.


    "Thank you, Geoffrey," Bella responded and left the bedroom. She walked to the door, wanting to meet Tristan. She could feel Geoffrey now following her outside, but she didn¡¯t bother to stop him.


    Half-running, she finally saw her husband out of the elevator with a few of his assistants and guards. Her heart raced when she saw him smile at her, yet she could still see the sadness and fear radiating from his eyes.


    Bella ran after him, closing the distance between them, and threw herself into his warm embrace.


    "Tristan," Bella said softly, laying her head on his sturdy chest. She could feel his loud heartbeat, which was different from the usual calm and rhythmic one she was used to hearing.


    She didn¡¯t hear him say anything, but his tight arms around her were enough to convey his feelings. They hugged for a few seconds longer than usual without anyone saying a word, finding comfort in each other¡¯s silent company.


    A few people who followed Tristan¡ªDylan, Bryan, and the others¡ªwere now standing behind him, waiting without making any sound. They knew how hurt Tristan and Bella were as they faced their dying father.


    After a short while,


    Bella finally released her hug. She held Tristan¡¯s hand. He said nothing but looked at her with a difficult-to-describe expression.


    "Let¡¯s go inside and greet your father," Bella said softly, leading him into the room.


    Tristan weakly smiled at his wife as he followed her into the room. Ever since he received the news from the doctor that his father had lost consciousness, his mind had been unable to function correctly for the first time in many years. All he wanted was to arrive at the hospital and see his father.


    His heart had never felt so tense before, but when he saw his wife and felt her embrace, his tense and chaotic heart slowly calmed down.


    He felt grateful that his wife had come out to stop him and hug him briefly before they entered his father¡¯s ward. The warmth of her embrace relieved his tension and fear.


    Now, as he looked at his pale, frail father sleeping peacefully, he no longer felt as lost and could think clearly again.


    Standing next to his grandfather, Tristan greeted their family doctor, who had been treating his father since his battle with cancer.


    "Uncle¡ª" Tristan slightly nods.


    "Tristan, you finally come," The doctor said politely.


    Lewis Sinclair turned to him and gently patted his grandson back. "You work hard, dear," he said, trying to smile at his grandson, but his deep sadness betrayed him.


    Taking a deep sigh, Lewis glanced at Bella, surprised that she didn¡¯t look well. "Bella, go take a rest, dear. You don¡¯t look okay," he said, sounding worried.


    Tristan suddenly noticed that his wife¡¯s face was as white as paper, and her eyes were puffy. He realized that he had been so focused on worrying about his father that he had ignored entirely how devastated his wife felt.


    He leaned in closer and whispered in her ear, "me after you after talking with the doctor and Grandpa..."


    Bella understood they needed to discuss William¡¯s critical condition, so she nodded to give them space. After Tristan kissed her cheeks, she left the room.


    Tristan also asked Geoffrey to prepare lunch for his wife.


    Once Bella and Geoffrey had left the room, Tristan¡¯s soft and calm expression slowly changed as he turned to face the doctor.


    "Uncle, please tell me what we should do now?" Tristan asked.


    "Tristan, prepare yourself. Your father was holding out, waiting for you and your grandfather to arrive. Honestly, your father no longer has the strength to hold on..." The doctor continued to explain William Sinclair¡¯s actual condition and what would happen to him in the next few hours if he were to wake up.


    Lewis and Tristan listened silently with grim and miserable expressions. They both knew this day would come but hadn¡¯t expected it so soon.


    Tristan had hoped his father would survive a few more years until Bella gave birth to their twins. However, after hearing the doctor¡¯s explanation, it seemed like there was no more hope for his father. It was only a matter of time until he left them forever.


    After the doctor left, Tristan and Lewis Sinclair stood by the bed, drowning in sadness.


    Alan and Geoffrey, who looked sad in the corner of the room, could only stand there waiting.


    ***


    While in another VIP ward room, Bella tries to enjoy her lunch but finds all the Italian food on the table tasteless. She swallows her Fettuccine Alfredo and fruit salad because of her hungry twins.


    As she eats, her eyes are fixed on the door. She anticipates someone will come to deliver the news she really wants to avoid. However, until all her food is finished, no one comes in.


    Feeling drowsy again, Bella moves to the sofa. She calls her grandpa to check whether he managed to fly to the capital today.


    To her surprise, her phone call immediately connects. "Grandpa, where are you?" Bella asks.


    "Bella, we are about to board the plane to fly there. I can¡¯t speak much," Isaac Donovan answers. "I will call you when we arrive."


    "Okay, Grandpa. Take care, and see you soon," she hurriedly says, ending the phone call.


    Bella feels relieved to hear that her grandfather could finally fly here.

 Chapter 520: Final Words

    "Mom...why are you sleeping here?"


    Bella suddenly woke up when she heard Dax¡¯s voice. She thought she was dreaming, but when she opened her eyes, she saw Dax walking into the room with a worried expression.


    ¡¯I¡¯m not dreaming!?¡¯ Bella wondered while looking around.


    She was surprised to see herself in bed under a soft, warm blanket. And she saw her mother and Aunt Noora walking behind Dax.


    Hurriedly, Bella sat on the edge of the bed and reached out her hand to Dax. She hugged her son.


    "Why are you here?" She asked, but her eyes looked at her mother and Noora.


    "Bella, Tristan called me. He asked me to bring Dax here. I don¡¯t know what happened, but Tristan only said that William wanted to meet Dax," Natalie explained.


    Bella suddenly remembered her father-in-law¡¯s condition. She glanced at the clock on the wall; it was almost five, and the sky had turned dark.


    "Sorry, Mom. I fell asleep after I had my lunch. I also don¡¯t know what happened outside," Bella said while styling her messy hair into a simple bun.


    A warm smile appeared on her lips when she saw her son sitting beside her on the side of the bed, looking at her with his curious gaze.


    "Dax, have you met your father or Grandpa William?" She asked.


    "No, Mom. Uncle Geoffrey took us here immediately. I haven¡¯t seen my dad. What happened, Mom? Did Grandpa get sick?" he curiously asked.


    Bella was puzzled about explaining the truth to Dax. She looked at her mother and Noora, but she understood when she saw them shake their heads.


    "Dax," Bella said calmly, "I mentioned before that your grandfather was sick, right?"


    "Yes, mom."


    "Today, he needs to be treated in the hospital, so we¡¯re here to accompany him."


    "I see. Mommy, let¡¯s go see Grandpa now," Dax said, getting out of bed and taking his mother¡¯s hand.


    Before Bella could stand up, Tristan appeared at the door, catching everyone¡¯s attention.


    "Daddy," Dax beamed, looking at his father. "I want to meet Grandpa. Please take me to see him."


    Tristan smiled and took his son¡¯s hand. "Alright, buddy. Let¡¯s go meet him." He then turned to Bella. "Father also wants to see you."


    Bella promptly stood up from the bed, ready to follow Tristan to her father-in-law¡¯s room. Knowing that William was awake, she felt a mix of joy and worry about his current condition. Why was he suddenly asking to meet Dax?


    "Mother, Aunty Noora, please wait here for a moment. Geoffrey will call you both later," Tristan said.


    "Sure, Tristan. Don¡¯t worry about us; go meet your father first," Natalie Wright said, nodding slightly.


    Natalie knew what had happened here; her in-laws might have had the last moment to meet his closest family.


    ***


    Bella felt Tristan¡¯s tight and cold grip on her hand as she followed him into William¡¯s room. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She tried hard not to show sadness when she saw William Sinclair sitting on the bed, his back resting in Fowler¡¯s position. She did not see Lewis Sinclair or her butler, Alan, in the room. She only saw Daniel, who stood near the door.


    Although a smile appeared on William¡¯s lips when he saw them, Bella knew sadness radiated from the look in his eyes.


    "Little Dax, Bella, please sit here," William said weakly and slightly hoarse as he tapped the edge of the bed.


    Dax hurriedly sat closer to William while Bella sat near his feet, covered by a white blanket.


    Tristan didn¡¯t join them; he just stood beside the bed near Bella. His expression looked calm, but his eyes were slightly crimson; a trace of tears could be seen there.


    Bella smiled at William, trying not to show her sadness, "Father, how¡¯s your condition?" she asked softly.


    "Grandpa," Dax called out while holding his hand. "You still look tired; you should sleep and rest," he said worriedly.


    "Little man, Grandpa is fine. Don¡¯t worry," William Sinclair smiled at his concerned grandson.


    William took a silent breath, trying to maintain his composure, before looking at each family member. He saw his son, Tristan, looking gloomy and worried, then at Bella, holding back her sobs.


    He turned back his gaze at his adorable little grandson, who looked confused and stared at him. He slowly raised his hand to caress his grandson¡¯s soft hair before speaking to them:


    "Bella, Tristan, and Little Dax, I¡¯m sorry if I made you all worry," a forced smile graced his weak, pale face. "I¡¯ll be fine. Please, please, I beg you. You don¡¯t need to be sad or worried about my condition, hmm..."


    Tristan¡¯s hands clenched tightly. He knew what his father was trying to do now, saying his final words to them. He knew this would happen today, but he still refused to accept it happening now.


    William¡¯s gloomy gaze was now fixed on Tristan. "My son, please take care of your Grandpa. Even though he always looks healthy on the outside, he is not; he is old. You have to check his condition every day."


    Tristan said nothing, but his eyes shook, staring back at his father.


    "You must love Bella forever and never hurt her feelings. And... Please raise my grandchild to be a decent person..." William¡¯s voice faded as tears came out of the corners of his eyes.


    Bella lowered her head, unable to witness William express his last words to Tristan; she cried silently, only her tears falling.


    Dax was visibly confused, looking at his Grandpa, who was now crying, but he said nothing.


    "Dad, I promise you I will take care of them. Don¡¯t worry about it," Tristan said softly, but in his heart, he felt like a thousand nails were now stabbing him. He held himself from crying before them.


    William smiled at him before turning to see Bella. He smiled at her and said, "My dear Bella."


    When he saw her lift her head and look at him, he continued, "I¡¯m truly sorry for what happened in the past, Bella. Thank you for staying with us. I beg you for the last time, please take care of my father, son, and grandchild."


    The atmosphere felt even sadder when Bella started to sob. Although her sobs sounded soft, they could be heard clearly.

 Chapter 521: Grandpa Dying?

    "Don¡¯t be sad, my dear Bella. Cheer up. I will leave this world happy if you don¡¯t cry," William lovingly looked at Bella. He smiled, though his smile still seemed weak.


    Bella¡¯s lips trembled as she said, "Father, I promise to protect and love them with all my heart. Don¡¯t worry about it¡ª" She wiped her tears and smiled at him.


    "Thank you, Bella. Thank you so much..." William¡¯s voice sounded weak and shaky.


    Bella¡¯s sob grew louder when she felt Tristan¡¯s hand land and squeeze her shoulder gently. She turned to see him, surprised to see his eyes getting even more red and tense. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan was about to ask them to leave but was halted when Dax spoke, "Grandpa, where are you going? Why are you saying goodbye to Mommy and Daddy?" he asked while looking at all of them in return.


    Dax, who had been confused all this time, couldn¡¯t wait to ask those questions. He knew his Grandpa was ill, but why did he seem weird, as if he was about to go somewhere far and not going to return to see them all?


    "And why are you crying, Mommy?" Dax continued to ask, looking at his mother.


    Tristan and Bella were lost for words. They could only look at Dax in a daze, unable to tell him what had really happened.


    "My dear Little Dax," William smiled gently at his worried and confused grandchild. "I¡¯m not going anywhere, my little man. I¡¯ll forever be by your side," he said while placing his hand on Dax¡¯s chest before continuing, "In here...in your heart."


    Witnessing this, Bella cried even more internally; only her small sobs could be heard, but it was enough to worry Tristan.


    He could see his wife struggling to breathe. He also noticed his father seemed to need to take another pain reliever.


    Tristan took Bella¡¯s hand before looking at Dax, "Buddy, your Grandpa is exhausted now. Let Grandpa have some rest, okay?"


    After Bella and Dax hugged William Sinclair, they left the room.


    Holding Tristan and Dax¡¯s hands, Bella tried to maintain her composure as they left William Sinclair¡¯s room.


    Tristan stopped before the temporary room that Bella used earlier. He leaned closer to Bella and whispered, "Darling, go inside and get some rest with Dax."


    "Hmm..."


    "And, please ask your mother and Noora to come here. Father also wanted to meet them."


    Bella didn¡¯t rush to go inside; she nodded to him before throwing herself into his embrace and crying silently. She could feel Tristan kiss her head and tightly hug her back.


    After a few more seconds, Tristan¡¯s voice could be heard near her ear:


    "Please stop crying, dear. Dax and the twins will be even more confused if you continue crying. This is the best thing for my father. If he stays longer, his illness will only torture him."


    Bella nodded and released her embrace. She looked up to see his eyes while smiling at him.


    "I know."


    "Alright, go inside. We don¡¯t have much time," Tristan said while opening the door for them.


    ***


    After Natalie and Noora left the room, Bella sat on the three-seater sofa, and Dax sat on the single sofa opposite her.


    Bella noticed her son was engrossed with something on his iPad, probably doing his coding course as usual.


    She decided to let him be and leaned back on the sofa, trying to push away the sadness from her mind.


    However, before she could dismiss her sad and frightened feelings, she suddenly heard Dax call her.


    "Mom. Mom, are you sleeping?" Dax asked.


    Bella slowly opened her eyes and slightly glanced at him, "No, I¡¯m not sleeping, dear. I¡¯m just trying to rest my eyes. Do you want Mommy to get you something?"


    Dax shook his head slowly and placed his iPad on his lap. His tense eyes prompted Bella to wake up and face him.


    "Is Grandpa dying?"


    Bella was not surprised to hear her intelligent son, who had just turned five a few days ago, ask this question.


    However, she was momentarily lost for words. She just stared at her son with mixed emotions.


    "Mom?"


    "Uhm, why do you ask if Grandpa is dying?" Bella asked hurriedly.


    "No reason. I was trying to guess. Because since we moved into the new house, I often hear Uncle Daniel and Geoffrey talking about Grandpa¡¯s health condition," Dax explained. "And when Grandpa said his strange words earlier, it made me curious. So, I decided to search online and found out that Grandpa might be dying. Has his cancer finally become incurable?"


    Although his voice sounded casual, his worry and gloomy gaze were enough to convey his inner feelings to Bella.


    "Come here, Dax. Sit next to me," Bella tapped the seat beside her.


    Bella decided not to hide anything from her son any longer.


    Sooner or later, he would learn about his Grandpa¡¯s actual condition.


    What worried her now was that she couldn¡¯t control her emotions to discuss something this sensitive with him. She might end up breaking into tears again. However, waiting for Tristan to tell Dax about it would take a long time because he was busy outside.


    Bella turned to look at Dax as she placed her hand on his shoulder.


    "Dax, your grandpa is indeed dying," Bella said. She paused momentarily to see his reaction. When she saw him appear calm, she continued. "The doctor can no longer help him heal. So, all we can do is pray that God will not let him suffer too much."


    She felt like her words were cutting into her heart like a sharp knife.


    "No wonder Grandpa was saying his last words to you and Dad," Dax said softly. He paused for a moment as if trying to hold back his tears. "Mom, I feel sorry for Grandpa. He must be in a lot of pain right now."


    Bella felt hurt when she saw her son lower his gaze as if he didn¡¯t want her to see his red eyes.


    "My son, you can cry if you want. It¡¯s fine," Bella said, turning her gaze to another place, giving him time to express his sorrow.

 Chapter 522: The Final Announcement

    They fell silent again for a few seconds. All Bella could hear was her son¡¯s quiet sobs, which made her tears start to wet her cheeks again.


    After a long silence, Dax said, "Mom, I feel sad now because I only knew my Grandpa for a short time. And now...he will leave me again. Forever..."


    Bella looked at her son; when she saw his tears wetting his cheeks, she smiled at him, saying, "Even if he has left us forever, he will always be with you, with us. Grandpa will always be in our hearts. As long as you remember and keep praying for him."


    Dax nodded.


    "I will pray for Grandpa and remember him forever so he will stay here forever," he said while putting his hand on his chest.


    "Good, boy. You did well, my son..." Bella felt proud of him. He was handling this better than she was. "Alright, let¡¯s stop crying. Grandpa would be sad if he saw us cry, right?"


    "Hmm, let¡¯s do that," Dax said, wiping away his last tears.


    Not long after, a few pairs of steps enter the room.


    Bella saw her mother and Noora return with her Grandpa, and Nick followed them.


    They all sit in the living room with the same gloomy expression as they wait in sorrow to hear the final announcement about William Sinclair.


    ***


    The next day.


    The news of William Sinclair¡¯s death shocked the nation in the early morning.


    Almost all television stations reported the news, and it also became a trending topic on the internet.


    The media crew flooded the hospital to make a live report about William Sinclair¡¯s death.


    Fortunately, Bella and her family had left the hospital early that morning and returned home before the news was released. So, no media could take a picture of them.


    While Dax continued to rest in his room, Bella lay on the bed, hugging her husband. She worried about Tristan, who hadn¡¯t rested since yesterday and only slept after they arrived home.


    Tristan had been busy accompanying his father during his last moments. He had to meet with a few influential people who knew about the news and came to visit the hospital right away, including the president of the nation, Jayson Spencer, and his wife, as well as a few of the country¡¯s founders. William¡¯s closest business partner, friends, and a few close family members were also there.


    Bella lay still, trying not to wake Tristan, fitting herself into his arms. She could hear his steady heartbeat as he slept, but a few times, he seemed to cry in his sleep, which broke her heart again.


    Bella didn¡¯t know when she also fell asleep again. She only woke up when her stomach made a loud growl, breaking the silence; at the same time, Tristan moved.


    "Are you hungry?" Tristan¡¯s hoarse, deep voice echoed above her head.


    Bella looked up and smiled.


    "It seems our twin is asking me to eat now. What time is it?" she said, trying to glance at the digital clock on the bedside table. She was surprised to see it was almost nine.


    Tristan tried to get up and said, "I will ask someone¡ª"


    Bella stopped him, "No. Go clean yourself. You have to be present in the hospital at ten. I¡¯m sure Grandpa is already ready, waiting for you."


    "Hmm, you¡¯re right," Tristan said while sitting on the edge of the bed and running his finger through his hair.


    He glanced at her, "I will return to the hospital with Grandpa. You don¡¯t have to go there. Please wait here with Dax. We will have a funeral ceremony tomorrow morning¡­" he explained the funeral plan briefly.


    Bella said nothing; she just nodded and let him clean up. After she prepared his suit, she left the room to use another bathroom to clean up before heading to the first floor.


    She needed to prepare breakfast for Tristan before he left the house. He might be busy until afternoon receiving a few of their distant family members to give William a last moment. Tomorrow, they will have a private burial that only close family members can attend.


    When Bella arrived in the dining area, she saw Dax sitting with her mother at the dining table. She also saw a chef and Noora busy preparing a warm meal in the dry kitchen near the dining room.


    The room¡¯s atmosphere was still gloomy. No one spoke; they were all busy with their activities. Even her mother and Dax didn¡¯t talk about anything.


    After adjusting her emotions and keeping her face calm, Bella walked into the room.


    "Good morning, Mom, Dax..." She greeted them and sat beside Dax, facing the huge glass window and looking at the bright sky outside. However, inwardly, she still felt gloomy.


    "Good morning, Mommy," Dax smiled back at his mother.


    "Morning, Bella. What do you want to eat?" Natalie greeted her back. She could see Bella¡¯s exhausted gaze, which made her worry.


    "Anything, mom. I¡¯m hungry..." Bella said vaguely as she picked up a grape and ate it.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll ask the chefs to make something warm and fast for you. How about Tristan?" Natalie asked before approaching Noora and the chef.


    "He will join us in a minute. Give him something simple. He will rush to the hospital right away after breakfast." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Natalie said nothing and left hurriedly.


    Bella silently smiled, looking at her mother. She felt grateful enough to have her mother stay with them in this situation; at least she had someone to talk to when Tristan was busy handling everything outside.


    While waiting for her breakfast, Bella talks to Dax. She told him about the funeral plan and that his private class schedule would be stopped for a week.


    "I know, Mom. Uncle Geoffrey already explained to us before you came."


    Bella was surprised, "Where is Uncle Geoffrey now?"


    "He prepared a car for Dad outside," Dax said while placing his cutlery.


    He turned to look at his mother before continuing, "Mom, don¡¯t be stressed. It¡¯s not okay for the twins. Please relax. Daddy will take care of everything."


    Bella, "..."

 Chapter 523: Investigation Progress

    Dax turned to look at his mother before continuing, "Mom, don¡¯t be stressed. It¡¯s not okay for the twins. Please relax. Daddy will take care of everything."


    Bella tried to hold back a laugh when she heard her son¡¯s advice.


    She felt she was talking to Tristan, not her five-year-old son, Dax.


    ¡¯Gosh! Why is this little man so similar to Tristan!?¡¯ she thought, amused.


    Bella didn¡¯t want Dax to feel bad, so she smiled at him and said, "I will listen to my genius son. Alright, finish your muesli and milk..."


    "Mom, I want to go with Dad to the hospital. May I go?" Dax visibly pleaded.


    Before Bella could answer, Tristan appeared behind them, looking neat in his black suit. He smiled at them as he approached the dining table.


    "Not today, buddy. I need you here to accompany Mommy and the twins. But I will take you with me tomorrow to take Grandpa to his forever resting place. How about that?" Tristan answered Dax, tapping his head gently before sitting next to Bella.


    "Alright, Dad," Dax said as he finished breakfast. He thought he would never have the chance to see his grandfather again, so he wanted to go to the hospital.


    "Tristan, what time will you come home?" Bella asked, concerned about his condition and worried he would be exhausted.


    "Perhaps I will join you for dinner, but I will call before I return. Just to let you know when I will be on my way," he smiled at her before continuing, "And you must eat and rest. Don¡¯t exhaust yourself with too much work. Remember, tomorrow, we will be busy again."


    "Okay, I promise I will," Bella answered without asking further. She already knew why Tristan hurriedly arranged his father¡¯s funeral. It was because that was his father¡¯s last wish¡ªWilliam¡¯s last wish was to be buried quietly in a simple funeral with only family and close friends attending, without any publicity, and to be buried by his mother¡¯s side.


    After kissing Bella and Dax on their foreheads, Tristan finally left the house and headed to the hospital with Geoffrey.


    ***


    In the afternoon of the same day, news about William Sinclair¡¯s death continued to circulate and dominate the media in the country.


    Bella turned on her cell phone for the first time since last night and was instantly bombarded with notifications. She placed her cell phone on the table and patiently waited for the notifications to stop.


    While waiting, she opened her laptop to browse the internet, wanting to read about her father-in-law.


    However, as soon as she turned on her computer, Stefan¡¯s worried face appeared on the screen, startling her.


    "Sister, you¡¯re finally online¡ª"


    "Stefan, what the? Why did you hack into my laptop?"


    "Yeah, sorry about that. But I had to. I couldn¡¯t reach you, and no one else could contact you. They are all so worried after hearing the news. I¡¯m so sorry for your loss, sister."


    Bella smiled faintly, observing how worried Stefan appeared. "Thank you, Stefan."


    "Sis, are you alright? Why is your cell phone not active?" Stefan asked, filled with concern.


    "I¡¯m fine. We are just shocked this happened too soon," Bella answered. She briefly paused to take a deep breath.


    "I know, right? I met him several times when I stayed at your house; he looked fine. Why did he suddenly die? Even Harper and the others were shocked because they still saw him on Dax¡¯s birthday."


    "He has already battled with his cancer for years but never shows it to others," Bella said, feeling gloomy as she talked about her father-in-law. After composing herself, she continued, "Well, we knew this time would arrive, but we didn¡¯t expect it to come so fast." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I hope I can fly there, sis," Stefan said, his expression slowly gloomy. He wanted to return to Astington to support Bella and Dax but couldn¡¯t.


    "Thank you, Stefan. But you don¡¯t have to force it. I understand you can¡¯t leave the headquarters because Jack is still out of the country..." Bella smiled when she saw him protest through his gaze.


    She had heard Stefan complain since the day he knew he couldn¡¯t come to Dax¡¯s birthday party because Jack had decided to attend. Also, Harper was not in New York at that time. This is one rule in the RDF Group to ensure everything was under control: at least one senior management member stayed at the office.


    Stefan rubbed his neck, looking frustrated. "Yeah! Still...I wanted to be there."


    "You can come here when Jack returns," Bella tried to cheer him up.


    "I hope Jack returns much earlier than scheduled. He said he has business in Dubai and will only come a few days later."


    "I see. So you can come here after he arrives."


    "Yes. I will come to visit you, sister!"


    "Good, good, I will wait. Ah, bro, can you help me?" Bella asked as she remembered Tristan¡¯s plan to capture Mad Dog. She had heard from Tristan that Stefan helped them locate that person.


    "Sure! What kind of help, sis?"


    "Tell me about the progress of your investigation regarding Mad Dog?"


    "Damn it! This Mad Dog is completely cunning. He¡¯s just vanished as if the earth swallowed him! My best guess is that he has gone off-grid. He no longer uses any of the gadgets he usually uses. And he likely not in any places he has visited in the past.


    So, we completely lost him. At least for now."


    Bella¡¯s heart tightens. She knew how evil Marco, A.K.A Mad Dog, was. And, she would never have eased if this man had not been captured.


    "Ah, sis, I found something interesting after investigating Marco¡¯s identity in more detail," Stefan said excitedly.


    "What is it?" Bella asked curiously.


    "That man was Laura Kiels, the fiance..."


    "What the hell? Do you mean Marco? Laura¡¯s fiance?" Bella was shocked beyond words to hear that. "Are you serious?"


    Stefan responded, "Yeah, he¡¯s the one who helped Laura out of her legal troubles. You remember her lawsuit against Jessica Spencer and our company?"


    "Hmm, I remember," Bella said.

 Chapter 524: Funeral Day

    Back then, Bella was puzzled that Laura still had the money to settle all the damages from the contract, including the payment to Jessica Sinclair¡¯s jewelry company. She also paid Stellar Entertainment for the money she used for personal matters.


    "Actually, Marco is the one who helped her out of all that mess. Laura Kiels has been staying at his villa since she left her apartment. And a few days before she died in prison, a man visited her. I believe that was Marco in disguise."


    Bella was utterly shocked.


    Now, everything has become clear to her. It made sense why Dark Skull was interested in her right after she took over Quantum Capital; it was because Laura Kiels wanted to know about her. Not because that man was Tristan¡¯s mortal enemy.


    She never expected Mad Dog A.K.A Marco, the leader of Dark Skull, to be Laura Kiels¡¯s fiance.


    ***


    The funeral day.


    The sun shone brightly that day, and the air felt warm as William Sinclair was finally buried in the family cemetery next to his mother¡¯s tomb.


    Only close family members were present at the Sinclair family funeral.


    The funeral was deliberately kept very simple because William wanted to rest in peace without bothering other people to come to his last home.


    The family left the location individually after the short and solemn funeral ceremony. The only ones left were Tristan and Bella¡ªeven Dax had returned earlier with his grandmother, Noora, and Geoffrey guarding them.


    Although the burial location was on the Sinclair family¡¯s land, several guards seemed to be in a safe area not far from them.


    Bella and Tristan were still sitting in silence under the shade. She let Tristan sink into his thoughts; she knew her husband needed to say something to his father.


    She was also busy remembering William Sinclair¡¯s kindness in the past, but she couldn¡¯t remember anything. She only remembered the good memories with him when she finally forgot him a few months ago.


    Bella felt sad like everyone else. The strange thing was that she also felt sorry for some unknown reason. But she would guess the feeling might come from her past relationship with William, which was far from good.


    Before long,


    Tristan¡¯s voice broke the silence of the place.


    "Thank you, Bella..." His voice sounded shaking, and he looked at their entangled hands.


    Bella looked at him, a thin line slowly appearing on her forehead. "Thank me? For what...?" she asked, puzzled.


    Tristan turned to her with a faint smile. "Because you forgave my father before he died. It made him extremely happy to face his death when he received your forgiveness."


    Hearing his words was enough to blur Bella¡¯s eyes. Unable to hold back her tears again, she let them fall before expressing her thoughts.


    "Please don¡¯t make me remember those times," she said between sobs. "I feel hurt again because of those bad things that happened in the past. You know what, Tristan? If only nothing had happened between me and your mother, I might have many good memories with your father."


    Tristan said nothing but wiped away her tears, finally allowing himself to cry for the first time in front of his wife.


    Bella¡¯s sobs get louder.


    "Now I regret why I didn¡¯t tell you about your mother sooner. Why did I keep that to myself for so long?" She wanted to say that, but those words stuck in her throat.


    "Alright, don¡¯t cry again. No need to remember those things," He leaned closer and kissed her wet eyes before continuing his words. "Father feels relieved and happy when death takes him. Even in his last breath, he makes sure I will never hurt you again."


    Bella finally could stop her tears; she tried to smile, hearing Tristan¡¯s words, "If you hurt me, I will break your legs, Tristan Sinclair. Never think about it, even in your dreams!"


    Tristan smiled, looking at her teasing smile.


    "You won¡¯t have the chance to break my leg, my love. I will never hurt you. I promise you," Tristan sincerely said while staring at her teary eyes. "I love you so much!"


    "Hmm, I will keep that promise, Mr. Tristan Sinclair," Bella smiled when she saw him finally not as gloomy as before. His smile could now reach his eyes again.


    Bella and Tristan stayed there, talking about many things. They both seemed to want to discuss anything good about William Sinclair.


    However, not long after, Reid approached Tristan with a stiff expression.


    "Boss..." Reid leaned closer and whispered something.


    Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s facial expression hardened, causing Bella to become worried when she noticed the change. Tristan whispered something to Reid, but Bella couldn¡¯t hear what was said.


    Her curiosity grew, and she started to worry that something had happened in their family, thinking about Mad Dog.


    After Reid walked away, Bella couldn¡¯t help but ask, "What¡¯s wrong, Tristan? Is there a problem?" with a worried expression.


    Tristan¡¯s smile widened as he warmly held her hand and stood up.


    "My wife, the temperature in this area is dropping. We should head back now," Tristan calmly said, ignoring her worried question. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella sensed something terrible had happened, and Tristan was eager to leave the cemetery quickly. Sensing danger, she didn¡¯t press for more details and followed Tristan to the black Maybach parked a few meters from William¡¯s tomb.


    The car promptly exited the cemetery, followed by three SUVs, intensifying Bella¡¯s unease.


    As their car crossed the highway, Bella asked, "Tristan, can you explain why we must leave in such a hurry?"


    Tristan gently stroked Bella¡¯s hand on his lap with his thumb. He was hesitant to tell her, but as he looked into her pleading gaze, he could no longer keep it to himself.


    "Someone asked to see Father for the last time, so we should leave," he said.


    His vague response left Bella even more confused. "Someone?" she asked.


    As Bella tried to make sense of it, a face suddenly came to her mind, freezing her in place.


    "Hmm..."


    "Your mother?" Bella asked.


    He nodded.


    "I allowed her to see my father one last time as her punishment. I know she loved my father so much, and now that my father is no longer alive, she must be devastated," Tristan explained.


    Bella says nothing but feels sorry for him, having such a mother.


    "My father wanted me to forgive my mother, but how could I do that after what she did to you? To my granny¡ª" Tristan¡¯s voice trailed off. He felt like he couldn¡¯t continue his sentence.


    "Tristan, there¡¯s no need to explain. I understand," Bella said as she held Tristan¡¯s hand tighter to strengthen his broken heart.

 Chapter 525: Her Birthday Approaching

    A few days later.


    So much has happened since William Sinclair¡¯s funeral. His sudden death is still being discussed in public, and the A-Netz is demanding to know the cause.


    Sinclair¡¯s family knew they couldn¡¯t stay still to keep it secret and let the doctor from their hospital address them in a press conference a few days after the funeral. Only after the press conference did the media and A-Netz no longer pressure them.


    Despite William Sinclair¡¯s passing, the Sinclair Group continues to thrive. The price of its public shares on the stock market remains unchanged.


    A week later, the family members gradually returned to their usual routines.


    Lewis Sinclair has chosen to spend some time in seclusion at his Lake View Villa, planning to return to the capital at the end of the year.


    Tristan has also returned to his usual routine after taking three days off at home. He is busy leading his company again.


    Dax has also resumed his regular schedule and is learning various activities with a private teacher at home. He has also started taking martial arts lessons with Geoffrey.


    Bella¡¯s baby bump is becoming more noticeable. She is now starting to do her morning exercises in their indoor gym.


    As for her Quantum Capital matters, she can now trust Harper to lead the company. Lately, they seem able to handle the rest without her involvement. Harper only visited her twice with Leo to discuss company matters.


    Freedom from Quantum Capital has given Bella so much free time. She feels happy because she is now starting to focus only on her pregnancy and her family.


    Also, an exciting moment: She will turn thirty-two in two days. She didn¡¯t plan to celebrate her birthday like she usually did. However, Tristan insisted that he would give her something special.


    Bella didn¡¯t know what it was, but she anticipated that because this was the first time after she had known him, she would accept his birthday gift.


    ...


    Sitting alone on the couch in the living room, Bella is doing a video call with Stefan. However, a few minutes have passed since he excused himself to pick up a call.


    "Sister, are you sleeping?"


    Bella opens her eyes when she hears Stefan¡¯s voice. She sits up straight, looking at her laptop on the coffee table.


    "Why are you taking so long? Who¡¯s calling?" Bella asked curiously, slightly annoyed.


    "Who else? It was Jack," Stefan shook his head while chuckling.


    "And what does he want? Why is he calling you now?"


    "Boss Jack ensures I¡¯m not staying for too long at Astington. He also asked me to do many things before I fly tomorrow morning."


    "What time will you arrive tomorrow? Did Sam know about your schedule?"


    "At night. Yeah, Sam will pick me up at the airport," Stefan excitedly explained. "I¡¯m so thrilled to fly now. And I¡¯m so happy to finally celebrate your birthday again, sis."


    "Well, bro, no party this time. But I will invite you and the others for dinner at home."


    "That¡¯s much better. You know I don¡¯t like parties, right?" Stefan said.


    "Yeah, I know. Any updates on that evil Mad Dog?" Bella inquired about Mad Dog. Since their last communication, there had been no significant news about him. She believed Tristan and his team were still trying to track him down.


    "Negative! I¡¯m starting to suspect Mad Dog has fled to another country because all his associates and businesses are no longer there." Stefan replied.


    Bella remained silent, but her worried expression conveyed her feelings. She feared that Mad Dog might harm her or her family.


    "Sis, don¡¯t worry. If he is abroad, our Sentinel Network will find him. We can¡¯t operate as effectively in your country due to your country¡¯s military involvement. Still, outside, he will have nowhere to hide," Stefan reassured her, trying to lessen her concerns.


    "Thank you, bro. I just want him to be captured. I¡¯m still worried about the possibility of him still being out there; what if he returns for revenge?"


    "He¡¯s not foolish enough to act now, sis. I think he¡¯s waiting for an opportunity to escape. I heard from Max that your husband is working with army special forces in your country to capture him so that he might feel the ultimate pressure now."


    "Yeah, I heard that too, and I hope so," Bella said, nodding slightly. "Alright, let¡¯s stop talking about him. You mentioned that you haven¡¯t started packing your things yet."


    "Oops! I forgot about that. I have to go now. Bye, sis! See you soon."


    "Bye..."


    After ending the video call with Stefan, Bella rushed to Dax¡¯s activity room. However, before climbing to the third floor, she saw him descending with Noora.


    "You¡¯re done?" Bella asked as she waited for them at the end of the stairs.


    "Yes, Mom," Dax said as he walked faster to his mother. "Let¡¯s go to Granny¡¯s house. I¡¯m hungry," he said excitedly as they went to his favorite place for lunch today.


    They arrived at Natalie¡¯s house just as she put the last dish on the table.


    "You guys are here?" Natalie smiled happily as she looked at her daughter and Dax. "Come on, hurry up and eat. You too, Noora, eat with us," she said, stopping Noora, who wanted to go to the kitchen to clean up.


    "I just want to wash my hands, mam," Noora said with an awkward smile when she was caught trying to skip lunch with them.


    "Alright, let¡¯s eat. This is the spicy beef stew, special for my little Dax," Natalie said as she served a bowl of soup to Dax and Bella.


    "Granny, thanks for the food. But can you start removing ¡¯little¡¯ before my name? I¡¯m about to become a big brother," Dax politely said before starting to gobble excitedly.


    Natalie and the others chuckled at his words.


    "Alright, alright, Dax...granny will call you that," Natalie said as she ate with them.


    They continue to talk about random things. But one subject seemingly piqued Dax¡¯s interest more than the rest: his mother¡¯s birthday, the day after tomorrow.


    "Mom, why don¡¯t you celebrate your birthday?" Dax asked. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 526: The Shocking Birthday Gift From Tristan

    Later, curious Dax suddenly chimed in, "Mom, why don¡¯t you celebrate your birthday?"


    Natalie and Noora are also curious. They both look at Bella, who smiles back at them.


    "How could we celebrate when I have just lost your Grandpa? Besides, you know I never celebrated my birthday." Bella said before she lowered her head and continued eating, trying to hide her sadness.


    "True," Noora gloomily comments.


    Natalie, upon hearing this, also feels sad. She knows that since childhood, her daughter has only celebrated her birthday twice. After that, they only have dinner with family members every time on her birthday. Remembering those times, she feels wronged because she never gives Bella happy memories on her birthday. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The room becomes silent as they all continue to finish their lunch.


    However, not long after, sensing the room¡¯s gloomy vibe, Bella tries to divert the conversation. She looks at her mother and asks, "Mom, how¡¯s Henry?"


    Natalie¡¯s eyes slowly lit up.


    "Bella, your brother is doing well there. He now leads a small team that is expanding a company in the nearby town. And he is now living with your grandpa in his lake-view villa. Well, don¡¯t worry; no one knows about his identity in the office."


    Bella smiled. This is what she wanted to hear.


    "Sounds good to hear that, Mom. I hope Henry can learn in three months before I ask Auntie Emma to call him back to the headquarters."


    "I¡¯m proud of Master Henry now," Noora said.


    "Thank you, Noora. I hope he can become a decent man," Natalie said, looking at Bella. "Oh right, Bella, I plan to visit your brother and Grandpa in December and return with them. I hear your Grandpa and Lewis will come here to celebrate the New Year, right?"


    "Mom, of course you can. And yes, we will have a small family party here on New Year¡¯s Eve," Bella said, happy to see her mother finally not gloomy anymore. She turned to Noora. "Aunty, you have to go with Mother."


    Noora was surprised to hear that. "Young madam, is that okay?"


    "Yes, of course. You never go on holiday, Aunty Noora. You should go there to relax and accompany my mother this time. Help my mother relax, too," Bella insisted.


    "Alright, ma¡¯am. If you insist...I will gladly go there and accompany Old Madam," Noora giggled as she ate again.


    "Can we go too, Mom?" Dax pleaded. She had only once visited that place, and he missed it again.


    She also wanted to go there, but she knew Tristan would not allow her to go with only Dax after what happened recently. Mad Dog is still out there.


    "I will ask your father first, Dax," Bella said.


    "Okay, mom¡ª"


    ***


    November 20.


    "Happy birthday, Bella..."


    Bella tried to open her eyes when she heard Tristan¡¯s voice near her ear.


    "I¡¯m sorry I woke you up," Tristan said, wrapping his arms around her body and pulling her closer. He smiled when she heard her groan while hiding her face on his chest.


    "What time is it?" Bella asked in a hoarse voice. Her eyes just refused to open.


    "It¡¯s twelve past," Tristan felt guilty for waking her up, but he wanted to be the first to congratulate her. "I¡¯m sorry to wake you up now."


    "Hmm, it¡¯s fine. Can we sleep again?" Bella weakly said, barely opening her eyes. Last night, she tried not to fall asleep before twelve, but it seemed she couldn¡¯t take it anymore, and she fell asleep at who knows what time.


    "I¡¯m sorry, but please wait a bit. There¡¯s something I want to give you. Wait here a minute, I¡¯ll get it," Tristan said, immediately leaving the bed.


    Bella opened her eyes and saw Tristan walking towards their office. She waited for him to return.


    Not long after, he returned with a brown folder, sat on the edge of the bed, and handed it to her.


    "What is this?" Bella asked as she sat beside Tristan, looking at him.


    "Please check it yourself, dear," Tristan said with a smile as he turned on the reading light. "This is my birthday present for you."


    Bella no longer asked but immediately opened the folder. She saw several sets of papers inside, and as she read them, the content shocked her.


    She looked up to see Tristan smiling at her. "Why did you transfer the Sinclair share to me?"


    Bella was shocked beyond words to see that the papers transferred twenty-five percent of Sinclair Group shares to her.


    "As I said before, this is my birthday present for you, dear," Tristan said gently.


    "But these shares?"


    "These are the shares Grandpa gave me if I agreed to marry you..." Tristan paused for a moment to take a deep breath before continuing. "My dear, I want you to have all these shares because they were always meant to be yours, not mine. So please accept them as your wedding gift and also as a birthday gift."


    "Tristan¡ª" There were so many things Bella wanted to say, but somehow, all the sentences in her mind slowly disappeared when she saw his gaze. She couldn¡¯t say anything, just looking at him with teary eyes.


    "My wife, Bella, I sincerely apologize for the difficulties at the beginning of our marriage. And as I have promised many times since the beginning of this year, I have told you that I will only give you happiness from now on," Tristan said sincerely while looking into her eyes.


    "Thank you¡ª" Only those words could leave her lips. She was still shocked at receiving such a large share for a company as big as Sinclair Group. "But is this too much, Tristan..."


    "You deserve it. Please don¡¯t refuse. It¡¯s all yours now," Tristan assured her.


    "Alright, I will accept it. But someday, I will give it to our child when they grow up." Bella said.


    "You can do whatever you want, dear; that¡¯s yours."


    "Hmm..." Bella smiled back at him, feeling grateful. However, later, something crossed her mind. "But, Tristan, if I have twenty-five percent share, how about you?" she asked.

 Chapter 527: Touched By All Their Surprised Gifts

    "But, Tristan, if I have twenty-five percent share, how about you?" Bella asked.


    Tristan smiled lovingly at her. "I¡¯m nearly penniless now because my wife is richer than me. Please don¡¯t leave me, huh?"


    Bella remained silent. When he saw him not saying anything else, she asked worriedly, "Are you serious? Don¡¯t you have a share left there?"


    Tristan smiles before touching her soft cheek and gently caressing it. He didn¡¯t rush to answer her.


    "Seriously, no?" Bella asked again.


    "Oh dear Bella, I don¡¯t need anything, only you and our children," Tristan said. When he saw her worries grow, he hurriedly continued, "Don¡¯t worry about me; Grandpa and my father have transferred all their shares to me. So, I have the rest for the company share..."


    Bella can¡¯t help but narrow her eyes on him. ¡¯Gosh! Why am I worried for nothing!?¡¯


    "Geez... You know, hubby, I¡¯m not worried about you being penniless. Still, I just wanted to boss you around because I¡¯m a big shareholder in the company," she grinned.


    "Hahaha, you can do anything to me, dear. I won¡¯t refuse if you boss me around. In this house, you are the boss, not me," he said, leaning close to kiss her lips.


    When their lips parted, she smiled at him, saying, "I¡¯m just kidding. I¡¯m not your boss, but your loving wife."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t hide how happy he was hearing her words. He smiled at her before whispering near her face, "Happy Birthday, My love, Arabella Donovan. I hope you will only be blessed with happiness from now on. I love you¡ª"


    "Thank you, my husband, Tristan Sinclair. I love you more."


    ***


    In the morning, Dax and Noora surprised Bella by entering their bedroom. They brought a birthday cake and sang "Happy Birthday."


    Bella was surprised because Tristan usually locks their bedroom door. But why could they now open the door?


    "You didn¡¯t lock the room?" Bella whispered while trying to straighten her nightgown under the blanket.


    "No. Our son already warned me not to lock the door. He wanted to surprise you." Tristan smiled and helped her sit on the bed.


    Bella smiled faintly. She hurriedly sat on the bed facing her son. A smile graced her sleepy face, even though she felt a terrible headache¡ªlack of sleep because she had only slept a few hours before, and now she was awake again.


    "Thank you, my dear boy," Bella smiled at him while accepting the cake and glanced at Noora. "Thank you, Noora... oh... Mother, you¡¯re here, too?!" She was surprised to see her mother standing at the end of the bed.


    "Yes, we wanted to congratulate you last night, but Tristan said you had just slept, so we decided to come now," Natalie explained, smiling at Tristan. "Did we disturb your sleep?"


    Bella was rendered speechless. It looks like Tristan didn¡¯t want others to bother his moment to congratulate her.


    "No, Mom, I¡¯m not that sleepy. Thank you..." Bella smiled at her mother.


    "Ugh, come on, Mommy. Hurry up and blow the candle," Dax reminded her. "Wait, wait, Mom, you should make a wish first..."


    Bella smiled at her son before she closed her eyes and made a wish, praying for happiness and health for all her family and friends.


    After the warm morning birthday event, Bella¡¯s birthday didn¡¯t end there. Although there was no party to the celebration, all of her close family were there spending her morning until lunch.


    Only Lewis Sinclair and Isaac Donovan are not there, as they both now stay in their villa at Lake View Village. But, of course, they are having a video call, and their birthday present for her makes its way to her hand.


    It wasn¡¯t just gifts from Lewis Sinclair and Isaac Donovan that Bella received today, but also from Henry, her mother, and Dax.


    Bella stares at the colorful present boxes on the coffee table, reluctant to open them.


    "I can¡¯t believe it... Why did they give me presents when I told them they didn¡¯t have to prepare anything!?" Bella sighed deeply.


    "Young madam, because this is your special day, they just wanted to make you happy. Hurry...hurry and open them," Noora excitedly waits to see what present Bella accept after so many years.


    Bella feels amused looking at how excited Noora is now sitting opposite her. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, come on, Aunty Noora, did you encourage me to eat my afternoon snack earlier? Why are you asking me to open the gifts now?" Bella said.


    Noora chuckled. "You still don¡¯t seem hungry, ma¡¯am. So, let¡¯s check the presents first, huh?" she blinked, trying to persuade Bella.


    Bella said nothing but nodded at her. She took a gift from her grandpa. The box was not too big¡ªjust like a tissue box¡ªand she couldn¡¯t guess what it was.


    She was surprised to see the content, "Ooh, how generous, Grandpa. He¡¯s giving me a ten-story building in East City," Bella smiles while passing the paper to Noora.


    "Wow, this is a building on a main business street in the East City," Noora gasped in surprise to see the property transfer form.


    "Yeah. Not bad. Grandpa knows me so well. I don¡¯t have property there, and I¡¯m so grateful he gave me this one," Bella said while opening the gift from Lewis Sinclair, Tristan¡¯s grandpa.


    "Young madam, what¡¯s the matter? What did old Sinclair give you?" Noora asked curiously when she saw Bella gasp while looking at the paper in her hand.


    "Aunty Noora, it seems like my grandfather and Tristan¡¯s grandpa are trying to outdo each other," Bella said with a chuckle, looking at Aunty Noora. "They are competing to give me the best gift."


    She turned her gaze to the property transfer form; Lewis Sinclair generously gave her a fifteen-story building in the East City, not far from her new building from her own grandpa.


    "You¡¯re right¡ª" Noora also had the same expression as Bella when she read the paper. "These two, so kind to you, mam."


    "Mmm... They are." Bella smiled as she continued to open a gift from her mother.


    However, her smile faded when she opened the box.

 Chapter 528: The Wedding News

    Bella smiled as she continued to open a gift from her mother. However, her smile faded when she opened the box.


    Slowly, she felt her heart swell when she saw a gold bangle in the black jewelry box. She recognized the jewelry as her mother¡¯s only possession before she married her father.


    ¡¯Mom, why did you give me this? This is the only jewelry left by your parents...¡¯ Her eyes were blurry as she looked at the bangle, but she immediately distracted her mind and opened Henry¡¯s gift.


    Bella also felt touched when she saw her brother give her a beautiful bag from a well-known brand. Even though the bag was not as expensive as her bag from Tristan, knowing her brother bought it now when he didn¡¯t have much money touched her heart deeply.


    "He is so stupid! Why spend money on me? He doesn¡¯t even have money in his bank account..." Bella vented her frustration; She knew her brother only had a few thousand in his bank.


    "Young madam, your brother¡¯s attitude toward you seemed different than when I saw him the last time. He has changed a lot..." Noora also felt touched when she looked at Henry¡¯s gift: a beautiful, ginger-colored cross-body bag.


    "Maybe the divorce of our parents and how our mother battles her cancer in silence made him wake up from his arrogance and foolishness." Bella shook her head as she placed the bag and took the last gift from Dax ¡ª a small box like a phone box.


    "What¡¯s this, Aunty Noora? Did you help my son wrap this one?" Bella asked Noora.


    "No, I didn¡¯t, Young Madam. I think your husband did," Noora answered, also curious to know.


    "Tristan?" Bella was taken aback. She opened the box and was surprised to see a barcode and Dax¡¯s handwriting, "Scan me!" inside.


    Confused, Bella hurriedly grabbed her phone and scanned the barcode.


    Instantly, a website appeared with video clips that made Bella cry. It featured pictures of her and Dax and a few video compilations of their life in Sweden. At the end of the video was a recent picture with Tristan present.


    Her tears flowed more as she read the last credit of the video read: S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Happy Birthday, my pretty and kind Mommy. I created this website and video only for you. I wish you a delighted and blessed birthday. Love you so much¡ªYour son Daxton Donovan Sinclair. Ps: Mom, I hope you like my present."


    "What happened?" Noora was shocked when Bella suddenly cried, looking at her cell phone. "Please don¡¯t make me scared, Young Madam?" She rushed to see what Bella saw.


    "Aunty Noora, Dax made a video for me," Bella said, giving her phone to Noora. While continuing to cry, she was overwhelmed with emotion, remembering their life in Sweden and the last picture there¡ªTristan included, with lovely poetic words by her son.


    Bella feels so proud and happy because her four-year-old son created this video only for her.


    For Bella, she didn¡¯t need expensive things. Only receiving this kind of video already made her super happy.


    "Young master, he¡¯s such a sweetheart. How could he have planned to do this without us knowing?" Noora said between her tears.


    "My son is so smart. This video is so good, it feels like watching a drama trailer..." Bella said proudly.


    "You¡¯re right, Ma¡¯am. I thought Max created this," Noora looked at Bella. "Ma¡¯am, I think it¡¯s worth it that you allowed him to use your iPad early in his life. Now, he can make this pro video."


    Bella smiled, looking at Noora. "He used the iPad for simple games, not to learn how to make videos. I guess Stefan or Max must have taught him to create the website and this video."


    "Yeah, he learns so fast," Noora nodded and agreed with Bella.


    ...


    The surprise and happiness that Bella received on her birthday continued as all her friends gathered for dinner with her family.


    Leo came with Dana and surprised Bella with their wedding plans.


    Sam also came with Stefan, and Bella was surprised to learn how close Sam and Bryan had become. They have become close friends.


    Bella was even happier to see Sean arrive with Harper. Having all her friends and half of her family there made Bella feel completely blissful.


    After dinner, all her friends didn¡¯t go home but continued to spend the night.


    Later, all the women sat near the fireplace while the men headed to Tristan¡¯s playroom to play pool and continue drinking.


    As Bella sat with only Harper and Dana, she noticed something shiny on Harper¡¯s hand.


    "Oh, my lord!" Bella¡¯s eyes widened as she saw Harper. "Did he propose?" she asked.


    Dana also looked at Harper¡¯s hand and gasped in surprise, waiting for her reply.


    Harper pressed her lips tighter, holding her smile as she heard Bella¡¯s words.


    "Harper Reed, spill it now," Bella pleaded with her gaze.


    "Yes, Yes..." Harper said while trying to look around, checking that no one was around.


    Harper felt too shy to tell them about Sean¡¯s proposal to her last night after he brought her to meet his Grandpa. She tells them everything.


    "Oh dear Harper, I¡¯m so happy for you. Congrats...congrats..." Bella said while standing from her seat and embracing her. "You will become part of Astington now, Harper. I¡¯m utterly happy..."


    "Miss Harper, congratulations on your engagement," Dana joined Bella to congratulate her. "When are you guys planning to get married?" she asked.


    "We will not wait long because we are both no longer young," Harper grinned. "We might have a party in the summer next year."


    "Oh, you better plan your wedding after I give birth to the twin..." Bella was surprised to hear that. "I want to come to your wedding, Harper," she said and returned to her seat.


    "No worries. We have already considered your timing. But probably not too long after. So, I¡¯m sorry, dear, if I don¡¯t give you enough time to get your sexy curves back," Harper said, feeling genuinely sorry.


    "Hahaha, I don¡¯t care how I look. I may still look like a dairy cow, but that won¡¯t stop me from attending your wedding."


    "Hahaha! Thank you, girl!!"


    "So, will your family come?"


    "Of course, they all will come," Harper smiled happily. "They are the in-laws with the country¡¯s president."


    "Hahaha, your father must be proud of you."


    "Yeah. As a matter of fact, he¡¯s not just proud; he is shocked, too. Still can¡¯t believe his daughter can marry a man from a well-respected family."

 Chapter 529: Bella’s Friend

    A few days later.


    In the middle of the forest, far from the nearby town, Lucas Donovan sets his camping chair by the cold river and starts fishing, as he usually does daily.


    He enjoys the stunning scenery as far as his eyes can see, with a mountain in the distance. The once-green leaves now turn yellow and crimson. Snow covers the tip of the mountain, indicating that winter is coming. And this year, it seems to come sooner.


    Lucas Donovan no longer remembers how many days he has stayed in this place.


    His life in this place seems so slow. In the morning, he walks around the property, enjoying the sun and the sounds of birds. After his late breakfast, he spends his morning in the garden behind the cabin, watering his crops and harvesting the ripe ones. In the afternoon, he spends all day sitting on his deck chair by the river¡¯s bank, fishing, and often falling asleep.


    Since he left everything behind, he has been surviving in this place, relying solely on the food the rich forest around him provides.


    Only two times a month does he make the long journey to the nearest village, a 45-minute drive, to buy the essentials to keep him going.


    But today, for some reason, he feels homesick. Utterly homesick to see his family. But, again, his promise to his daughter and wife buries his longing.


    "This is your punishment, old man! Don¡¯t try it! Don¡¯t break what you have said. Or Bella will never trust you again," Lucas Donovan reminded himself.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time he felt this way, but almost every day, when the darkness surrounded the place, and that time he remembered Natalie, his wife.


    He smiled bitterly before taking a sip of his warm coffee. He continued waiting for the fish to bite, but after several minutes, there was no movement from his fishing rod.


    Instead, he heard a faint car engine from afar; it seemed to be moving in his direction.


    Lucas frowned while looking back toward his cabin, trying to hear clearly, but he still doubted his hearing. However, the sound became even more apparent.


    "Who¡¯s coming!?"


    He stood from his chair and walked toward his cabin. His heart raced as he waited for someone who was now approaching.


    This place was secluded, private property, and hidden from everywhere. It was too far from any other place, and the only sounds he could hear were from the river a few meters from the cabin, the wind, and the animals around.


    He couldn¡¯t even hear a car engine in the distance because this place was located three and a half miles from the road.


    Sitting in the chair on the deck, he looked at the stone street ahead, waiting for the car to arrive.


    Lucas believes that no one besides his father knows this place.


    Now, he wonders if the person who has appeared might be someone his father sent or someone who got lost around this place.


    "Why did my father send someone? Did something happen in the house?"


    He feels alert because this is the first time something like this has happened.


    A black jeep soon appeared, stopping not far from his car. Lucas squinted to try to identify the person. However, when he saw a young man emerge from the car, he didn¡¯t recall ever meeting him. He immediately stood from his seat, feeling alert with this man.


    "Are you lost?" he calmly asked.


    Even though the man looked harmless, the tattoo across his neck seemed slightly strange, making him uneasy. He subtly rubbed his chest to make sure his pistol was still under his jacket, ready in case this man tried to harm him.


    "No, sir," the man stopped a few meters before Lucas. He smiled at him politely before continuing, "I¡¯m here to meet you, Mr. Donovan."


    Lucas was taken aback. "Did my father send you? Is something wrong in the capital?" Lucas asked, sounding worried.


    "No, sir. But your daughter, Bella, actually asked me to stop by to check on you," the young man answered.


    Instantly, Lucas¡¯s tense expression slowly faded upon hearing Bella¡¯s name. He felt his heart warm with happiness, knowing his daughter had asked her friend to check on him.


    "So, you are Bella¡¯s friend¡­" A wide smile spread across his lips as he gestured to the young man to join him on the deck.


    After they exchanged a warm handshake, Lucas asked him to sit, and he returned to his seat.


    "Do you want a hot coffee?" Lucas politely offered him.


    "No need, sir. I will not stay long here. I need to continue my trip before dark."


    Lucas nodded slightly.


    "Young man, thank you. It must be difficult for you to drive to this place," Lucas smiled apologetically at him. This area was so far away from other places that this man stopped by just because Bella asked him.


    "It¡¯s fine, sir. I happen to have business not far from this place," he said with a smile, gazing at the beautiful trees in the distance.


    "By the way, how did you know my daughter?" Lucas curiously asked, turning to see the young man again. He looked neat in his long black coat.


    "I¡¯m Bella¡¯s business partner," the man said, turning to meet Lucas¡¯s curious gaze. "Have you heard about Stellar Entertainment?"


    "Yes, of course. That¡¯s my daughter¡¯s company," Lucas said proudly.


    "I¡¯m working with her at Stellar Entertainment. And now, I¡¯m heading to the movie set in the north and passing this place. When Bella heard I was in this area, she asked me to stop by to check on you because she is worried about you, sir."


    Lucas couldn¡¯t hide how happy he was hearing that Bella still cared for him.


    "Thank you, young man. You are so kind," Lucas said with a smile. "She doesn¡¯t have to worry about me. I¡¯m fine here."


    "I can see that, sir. You look happy to stay in this heaven, surrounded by a beautiful view. But it looks like Bella is only sad because she just lost her father-in-law. So maybe she is worried about you, too," the man casually said.


    Lucas Donovan was shocked to hear that. "What?" He didn¡¯t have the internet in this place, and there was no signal for his cell phone. This place was disconnected from the outside world¡ªan off-grid place. "William Sinclair, dead?" he asked to confirm what he heard.


    "Yes, sir." S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas Donovan could not believe what he heard. Why did that man suddenly die? He is the same age as him. Did he have a health problem? How about my father? Natalie?


    Is she alright?


    Countless questions were now dancing in Lucas¡¯ mind. He wanted to ask, but it seemed impolite. This man, Bella¡¯s colleague, might not know about their family matters.


    "Thank you, young man, for telling me. I haven¡¯t returned home for the past few weeks, so I didn¡¯t know what happened outside," Lucas expressed his worry and sadness after hearing about William Sinclair.


    "It¡¯s fine, sir. I understand," the man replied.


    "Oh, right, I forgot to ask, what is your name?" Lucas smiled at him.


    The man turned to look at Lucas. He slightly rubbed his eyebrow before answering, "I¡¯m Marco Lombardi¡ª"

 Chapter 530: Another Devastating News

    At Sinclair Tower.


    Max was shocked when he looked at his 34-inch ultra-wide screen. It took him a few more seconds to understand what he saw.


    "What the heck. Who has the nerve to do this?" Max shouted as he stood up from his seat, covering his mouth with his palm. His eyes were still fixed on his screen. "Darn it! How could this happen!?"


    From the sofa in the corner, Bryan could hear Max cursing at someone. He glanced at Max¡¯s computer desk.


    "Max? Something happens?" He asked while sitting, curious to see his dark expression as if someone had offended him.


    "Bryan, we are in trouble!!" Max said before sitting back in his seat.


    His eyes looked sharply at the monitor while his hands swung quickly at the keyboard, typing so fast.


    "Bryan, prepare yourself. We¡¯re going to war soon. This mother fucker...whoever did this boss might kill him."


    "What the fuck are you trying to say, Max?" Bryan sat up from the sofa. "Speak in human language. I can¡¯t understand if you speak in machine language." he scolded in annoyance while approaching him.


    However, Max still didn¡¯t answer him. His hand was still dancing across the keyboard, and only the sound of clacking keys could be heard, making Bryan even more curious. He stood behind Max, looking at the screen.


    Instantly, Bryan¡¯s face turned white with shock when he saw the picture in the right corner of the monitor.


    "What the hell, who sent that picture?" Bryan asked, looking at Max, who seemed busy with some coding, trying to find something.


    "Max?" Bryan asked again.


    Suddenly, Max¡¯s fingers stopped moving, and he stood up from his chair. Grabbing the iPad on the table, he walked out of the room. "Bryan, follow me. I will explain what happened on the way to the boss¡¯s office. We have to tell him right away."


    Bryan said nothing and hurriedly followed Max, heading to Tristan¡¯s office.


    When they arrived at Tristan¡¯s office, Reid and Dylan left the room simultaneously.


    "Why do you look so tense, Max?" Dylan asked, moving slightly to give way to Max and Bryan, who were walking towards them.


    "Is everything okay?" Reid asked, curious to see Max and Bryan¡¯s unusual tense expressions.


    However, Max did not answer them. Instead, he continued walking and said, "Dylan, Reid, could you please follow me inside¡ª"


    Dylan and Bryan exchange glances, confused.


    After knocking on the door and hearing Tristan¡¯s voice, Max immediately entered the room, followed by Bryan.


    Although confused, Dylan and Reid re-entered Tristan¡¯s room. They were both curious to see Max and Bryan¡¯s unusual expressions, scared and tense.


    "Boss, there¡¯s something I want to report to you," Max said, standing before Tristan¡¯s desk. Seeing him still signing the paper and ignoring them made Max impatient.


    "Boss, this is about your father-in-law, Lucas Donovan," Max added.


    Tristan¡¯s hand stopped. He looked up to see Max before him.


    "Have you found him?" Tristan asked, surprised by their speed and efficiency. He had just asked Reid to locate Lucas Donovan to protect him like the other family members. And now, when the day is still long, they return with his exact location?


    Max was surprised to hear Tristan¡¯s question. "Boss, you already know about him?" he asked.


    Before Tristan said anything, Reid stepped forward to stand beside Max. He looked at him with a slight frown.


    "Man, you already found Lucas Donovan¡¯s location? Wow, you are a magician. I haven¡¯t even ordered you, but you already found him. Well done, Max! Well done..." Reid said while happily patting Max¡¯s shoulder.


    "Reid, I¡¯m not looking at Lucas Donovan¡¯s location," Max explained hurriedly before they misunderstood him. "But someone just sent a photo of Lucas Donovan¡¯s dead body to the company email. I already¡ª"


    "WHAT!?" Tristan stood up from his chair, his face pale hearing Max¡¯s words. "Lucas Donovan¡¯s dead body? Are you serious?"


    Max didn¡¯t answer but handed the iPad to Tristan, "You can see it by yourself, boss."


    Tristan took the iPad. His grip tightened when he saw Lucas lying on the wooden deck, his eyes open wide as if shocked to see something. From the cut on his neck, blood was seen flowing, wetting the wooden deck.


    "Oh my God! He is indeed Lucas Donovan," Reid said after approaching Tristan and looking at the iPad screen. "Who the hell killed him?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer, but he saw Max before him. "Any other clue who did this?"


    Max frowned.


    "No clue from the picture. However, the place where the person uploaded this picture seems intentionally exposed. I already secured the coordinates and found that your father-in-law actually owns the place," Max explained.


    Tristan returned Max¡¯s iPad before he massaged his forehead, which suddenly felt tightened. He didn¡¯t expect this to happen now. After losing his father, is Bella¡¯s father now, too?


    After a few seconds of thinking, Tristan looked at Reid. "Send people to that place. Make sure you guys find out the clue. Who is responsible for his death, and do it faster to bring him back."


    "Yes, sir!" Reid answered right away. Before he looked at Max, he said, "Man, send the location to me."


    "Bro, this place is so far away from the capital. You need to fly there and drive for long¡ª" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where?" Reid asked impatiently.


    "Alto City, Red Mountain, bordering the neighboring country."


    Tristan, who heard it, became even more gloomy.


    "No worries, boss," Reid said. "We have an office there in Alto City. I will contact them to go there immediately, and I will fly there by myself to bring back your father-in-law."


    "Thank you, Reid. Please bring him back to¡ª" Tristan could not continue his sentence. He needed to discuss this with Bella first, whether she wanted her father sent here or to East City. "Call me later if you find him."


    "Yes, sir!"


    Tristan instructed Dylan and the others on some critical things before asking them to leave him alone.


    As soon as they all left the room, he felt his knee weaken. Sitting in his chair, he sighed deeply while looking at his cell phone.


    He was now confused about whether to tell Bella by phone or in person.


    A moment later, Tristan left his office and headed home.

 Chapter 531: She Refuses To Believe

    "Young Madam, Master Tristan is back," Noora announced as she rushed to the family room on the second floor, approaching Bella.


    Bella placed the pregnancy book on the coffee table and looked at her watch. It was still five in the afternoon.


    ¡¯It¡¯s still early. Why was Tristan already home?¡¯ She wonders, looking at Noora.


    "Tristan is back? Didn¡¯t he say he would be back before dinner?" Bella asked as she stood up from the sofa and walked toward the stairs.


    "I don¡¯t know either, ma¡¯am. Master Tristan didn¡¯t say anything."


    "Where is he?"


    "When I rushed to find you, Master Tristan was talking with Geoffrey in the living room downstairs," Noora explained.


    Bella said nothing as she rushed to the stairs, but Tristan walked up and smiled at her before she went down.


    Noora immediately excused herself and disappeared through the door specifically for workers.


    "You¡¯re back?" Bella asked, taking Tristan¡¯s coat and bag as they walked to their bedroom.


    "Yes, dear. I missed my wife and couldn¡¯t focus on my work. So, I left everything and came home instead," Tristan casually said, placing his hand on her shoulder.


    Bella could only shake her head. She doubted his reason: "Do you think I¡¯m Dax? Even my smart son could not believe your reason, Mr. Sinclair."


    She stopped, facing him after placing his bag and coat.


    "Did something happen in the office? Why did you return before five?" She asked again.


    Tristan¡¯s warm smile slowly faded as he stared at Bella, her beautiful eyes locked onto his. He could see the confusion radiating from her.


    Understanding the urgency of telling Bella about her father, Tristan gently took her hand. He guided her to sit on the sofa.


    He knew he had to break the sad news about her father, but a nagging worry troubled him now.


    ¡¯Is she strong enough to handle the fact that someone killed her father?¡¯ This made him reluctant to tell her, especially since he also didn¡¯t know how Lucas Donovan died.


    "Tristan, what happened?" Bella started to worry when she noticed something odd about Tristan.


    "My wife, there¡¯s something I want to tell you. And this news might make you sad..." Tristan paused for a moment as he saw her beautiful eyebrow wrinkle slightly.


    Tristan squeezed her hand gently before he told her that Max had found a picture of Lucas Donovan lying with a pale face and blood around his body on a deck in the middle of the forest.


    He didn¡¯t hide anything. He also mentioned that Reid and his team were rushing to the location to investigate what had happened.


    However, when Tristan felt Bella¡¯s hands suddenly become cold and start shaking, he stopped his words.


    "My Dear, I¡¯m so sorry to tell you about this terrible news now, but I have no choice. You have the right to know," Tristan said, worry starting to grip him as he saw her in silence, but her face looked as white as paper, like all her blood had now left her.


    Although what Bella heard from Tristan was entirely valid, her brain refused to believe it. Now, countless questions filled her mind.


    Bella¡¯s lips trembled as she spoke, "Tristan, are you sure my father is dead? How do you know he died just by looking at the photo? Is that a real photo? Photoshop? They might have photoshopped it before sending it to your company email, right?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tristan smiled wryly at Bella¡¯s words. How could they have some worry? He thought the same as her. That¡¯s why he asked Max, and Max told him that he had already checked about the originality of the picture, which was an actual picture¡ªnot edited.


    Also, by looking at the position of Lucas¡¯s body and face in the picture, it was clear that he had lost his life, with a puddle of dark blood around his body. What¡¯s more, the temperature in the area was approaching zero degrees. If his father-in-law doesn¡¯t get help soon, he will definitely die in such a situation.


    However, how could he tell her that fact bluntly? Only seeing her eyes now red, holding back tears, was enough to break his heart¡ªhe could feel her grief.


    Tristan took a deep breath, softly saying, "My dear, we will find the answer once my people arrive at the cabin. But it will take a while because the cabin location is far away."


    Bella said nothing, but her tears began to flow unstoppably. She feels her heart hurt.


    Even though Bella hated her father for his past actions, she couldn¡¯t deny their unbreakable connection as his blood ran in her veins. Her heart and mind grieved without her command.


    In Tristan¡¯s arms, Bella cried silently, releasing her sadness before regaining composure. She moved away from him to see his face clearly.


    "Tristan, what should we do?" Bella asked. Her mind was clouded, and she needed his guidance.


    "I need you to decide where we should send your father, to this place or East City. You also need to inform your mother and Grandpa about this news," Tristan said.


    Bella nodded. However, she felt scared to tell her mother and didn¡¯t know how to do so.


    "If you want your father sent to the East, we will fly there tonight. I will ask Geoffrey and Noora to prepare," Tristan paused, awaiting a response. Still, Bella¡¯s sobs grew louder, leaving her unable to speak.


    Seeing her visibly distressed, Tristan asked, "I know it¡¯s going to be tough to tell this news to your mother. Do you want me to be by your side when you¡¯re telling the news to your mother? I will gladly be."


    Bella weakly nodded. She feared her mother might collapse upon hearing the news.


    Tristan smiled at her. "Alright, let¡¯s go to meet your mother. We need to act fast. I have prepared the jet. We might fly there tonight."


    But Bella stopped him. "Wait, Tristan," Bella held his hand. "We need to call Grandpa first."


    "You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll call Grandpa now," Tristan said, taking out his cell phone to make a video call.

 Chapter 532: An Indescribably Sad

    Bella hurriedly wiped the trace of tears from her eyes before the call connected.


    "Tristan, is that you...?" Isaac Donovan was surprised to see Tristan video call him for the first time. His smile widened when he saw Bella sitting next to Tristan, and he waved to her. "What¡¯s going on, Tristan, Bella? Why are you suddenly calling me at this late hour?"


    Bella smiled at him, recognizing the background as her Grandpa¡¯s living room in his Lake View Villa. It has a beautiful and outstanding fireplace.


    "Grandpa, you are in Lake View Villa, aren¡¯t you? Is there anyone with you there?" Bella asked calmly. But inside her mind, she was worried about telling her Grandpa if he was alone because the news might cause him a tremendous shock that may affect his old and fragile heart.


    "Yes, dear. I have Nick here to stand by if I need anything. Okay, talk straight with me, Bella. Why are you guys video-calling me now?" Isaac Donovan asked again. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella nodded and then signaled Tristan to tell her Grandpa about the shocking news. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to deliver the news, fearing she might cry before saying a word.


    Tristan tapped and squeezed her hand gently before starting to speak to Isaac, "Grandpa, there is something we need to tell you."


    "Go on, I¡¯m listening," Isaac Donovan said.


    "Grandpa, I¡¯m really sorry to deliver this news, but we found out that my father-in-law has died in his remote mountain cabin," Tristan paused when he saw Isaac shout.


    "WHAT!?" Isaac was shocked beyond words. His hand trembled as he held the cell phone. "What are you saying, Tristan? My son died?"


    Before Tristan could answer, Nick suddenly appeared behind Isaac Donovan.


    "Master Tristan, what are you talking about? How could Master Lucas die? The last time I saw him, he was as healthy as an old stallion." Nick asked in genuine shock. Just like his old master, the shock is not only visible in his gaze but also in his tone.


    Tristan quickly told them everything and asked Grandpa¡¯s advice about what he wanted him to do next.


    When Tristan speaks with Isaac and Nick, Bella silently cries again while hiding her face behind Tristan. She had never felt this before. An indescribable sadness.


    Something made her feel wrong because the last time she met her father, she didn¡¯t completely forgive him, and now, he is gone just like that, without a word.


    The thing that scared her was that someone had killed her father, but they did not yet know who that person was. However, one person in her mind might do that. If what she fears is correct, she might blame herself because her enemy is now starting to hurt her family.


    After a few moments of silence, Isaac Donovan tried to strengthen his mixed emotions. He finally spoke, "Tristan, please bring my son¡¯s body to my home in East City. I¡¯ll wait for him there," he said calmly. Still, his apparent trembling voice betrayed his calmness.


    "Yes, Grandpa, my people will bring the body there. I will fly there with Bella and her mother tonight."


    "Thank you so much, Tristan. I appreciate it." Isaac said mournfully.


    Tristan finally ended the video call after discussing some essential things with Nick.


    Then, he turned to see Bella beside him and was surprised to see her eyes looking red and puffy.


    "Are you sure you can meet your mother now?" he asked, worried. "Do you want me to meet her alone? I think it¡¯s better if I meet your mother alone. You¡¯re pregnant and need rest if we want to fly tonight."


    "No, Tristan. I¡¯m fine. I will go with you. Let me wash my face first," Bella said before rushing to the bathroom to cool down. Her face felt so hot and sticky after she had cried so much, and splashes of cold running water would cool it down.


    Soon after, Bella and Tristan were standing before her mother¡¯s house. He turned to see her first before knocking on the door.


    "Yes? Who is it?" Natalie¡¯s confused voice could be heard from inside.


    "Mom, it¡¯s me."


    "Bella, Tristan? Why are you guys coming here?" Natalie was surprised to see Bella and Tristan at her house at this hour, especially Tristan. This is the first time she has seen him come to her home ever since she moved here.


    "Mom, we need to tell you something," Bella said, following her mother into the living room.


    "What important news made Tristan and you come here together?" Natalie asked, smiling at Tristan sitting in front of her before gazing at Bella sitting beside her.


    "Huh, Bella? What happened? Why do you look like you have just cried?" Natalie asked.


    Bella immediately turned her gaze elsewhere, unable to hold back her tears, even though she had tried not to cry in front of her mother.


    "Mother, we just heard the news about your ex-husband, Bella¡¯s father," Tristan immediately spoke after seeing Bella sobbing; he was worried Natalie would respond worse.


    He continued, "Lucas Donovan died in his cabin. My people are heading to the cabin as we speak, and they will bring his body to East City, to Grandpa Isaac¡¯s house..." He did not tell in detail how Lucas died because, at this moment, his wife and mother-in-law were hugging and crying.


    Tristan let them cry while he stood from his seat and called Reid to check their progress.


    He also calls a few people to arrange their immediate flight to East City tonight.


    ***


    It¡¯s slightly past midnight,


    Bella, her small family, and her mother arrived in East City and went straight to Isaac Donovan¡¯s residence.


    When they arrived, all her family members, including Henry, her brother, were already there.


    The grief in the room was palpable.


    Despite feeling tired and drained of energy, Bella chose to stay in the living room with the others, waiting for her father¡¯s body to arrive. She declined Tristan¡¯s offer to rest upstairs; she wanted to see her father.


    Sitting between her mother and Aunt Emma, ??she didn¡¯t say a word or hear what they were talking about. She felt empty.


    Bella had no more tears left when her father¡¯s coffin finally arrived not long after she arrived.


    She silently cried in Tristan¡¯s embrace as she saw how serene her father¡¯s face looked. He appeared to be sleeping, but now he was at eternal rest.


    ¡¯Goodbye, Lucas Donovan. May all your suffering end. And may you rest in peace. From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely forgive you. I love you, Dad.¡¯

 Chapter 533: Another Note?

    While Bella and her family are grieving inside the house, Tristan and some of his people gather in front of the house. They deliberately avoid Bella¡¯s family hearing as they discuss how Lucas Donovan died.


    "Sir, I found this note near your father-in-law¡¯s body," Reid handed Tristan a small piece of paper.


    Glancing at the paper, Tristan¡¯s face immediately froze. It was the same note he had seen in the empty house the night he wiped out the Dark Skull headquarters a few weeks ago.


    ¡¯It must be Marco!¡¯ Tristan thought as he accepted the paper from Reid. Seeing the same handwriting, his heart raced. No doubt, the one who wrote the notes was indeed Marco.


    [My old pal, Tristan Sinclair, this is the first one. Who¡¯s next?]


    Tristan read the writing several times and was sure it was Marco¡¯s handwriting.


    "Sir, do you recognize this handwriting? Who wrote it?" Reid asked curiously. He guessed that whoever left the notes must know Tristan.


    Standing slightly behind Tristan, Geoffrey answered, "It¡¯s Marco¡¯s handwriting." He took the paper from Tristan¡¯s hand and looked at Reid before continuing, "We found similar notes with the same writing that night in the empty house after you and your team wiped out Dark Skull basecamp."


    "That motherfucker! How dare he challenge our boss!? He¡¯s courting death!" Reid¡¯s anger soared. "Boss, we can¡¯t let him openly challenge you like this. Let¡¯s go with plan B!" he said in annoyance.


    Bryan, who was there, nodded in agreement with Reid, "Sir, what Reid said is on point. We should go after him with our plan B. You can¡¯t stay still waiting for Owen and his people to capture him. I think they can¡¯t do it by themselves."


    Tristan took a deep breath, avoiding their words. So many thoughts were now dancing in his mind. He agrees with them, but he can¡¯t do it alone.


    Frustrated with the situation, Tristan turned away from them and looked at the stars in the distance. He wanted to fight with Marco, exposing him on the internet openly, but the military rejected his idea. The military couldn¡¯t expose Marco¡¯s identity to the public because it would make them panic.


    That¡¯s why Owen and his special forces secretly sought Marco to maintain public safety and peace, especially for the victims of Dark Skull.


    However, seeing how openly Marco challenged him, Tristan couldn¡¯t stay silent. He had to do something. Either he had to beg Jayson Spencer for permission as supreme commander for this nation, or he had to do something else, ignoring Owen¡¯s warning.


    "Sigh!" That¡¯s the only sound that could be heard from Tristan¡¯s lips. It was making the others even more tense while waiting for his decision.


    After a few more minutes, Tristan still said nothing. He kept ignoring them all.


    Before Reid could say something, suddenly, the house door swung open, and a man approached them, causing them to stop chatting and look behind.


    "Brother-in-law," Henry called out to Tristan, sounding hurried.


    Tristan frowned, looking at Henry¡¯s worried expression. "Yes? What is it, Henry?" he asked, walking towards him. The others also followed.


    "My sister..." Henry¡¯s voice trembled. "My sister, she fainted."


    Tristan was utterly shocked. He rushed into the house and found Bella lying on the sofa, surrounded by other family members.


    Looking at her pale face was enough to make Tristan¡¯s heart seem to stop beating. Placing his hand on her forehead, he could feel how cold she was, as if she had just been drawn into a frozen lake.


    "We were still talking, and suddenly she fainted," Natalie¡¯s shaking voice was enough to tell how worried she was now.


    "Master Tristan... My young Madam didn¡¯t eat her dinner and lacked sleep." Noora explained in her sobs. This was the first time she saw Bella fainted.


    Tristan said nothing to them; he leaned closer to Bella and carried her in his arms before looking at Isaac and Natalie.


    "Grandpa, Mother, I will bring her to the hospital," he said hurriedly. He couldn¡¯t risk her health waiting for a doctor to come to this house. He needs the doctor to examine his wife sooner.


    "Yes, please, bring her to the emergency room. She must be exhausted," Natalie agreed with Tristan. However, Isaac Donovan had a different idea.


    "Just bring her upstairs, Tristan. I will call my family doctor to come at once," Isaac Donovan offered, but Tristan refused.


    Tristan knew that if Bella stayed home, she would not rest properly, and her condition would worsen. It¡¯s better to bring her to the hospital and let her sleep there.


    After asking Noora and Geoffrey to look after Dax, who now sleeps on the second floor, Tristan immediately left Isaac Donovan¡¯s residence and went to his hospital.


    *** Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    S International Hospital, East City.


    They arrived at the hospital almost two hours ago. After the doctor checked her condition, Bella was sound asleep on the bed.


    Tristan tried to sleep, too, but he couldn¡¯t close his eyes, as his mind was too preoccupied with everything to let him rest.


    His hand hung behind him as he stood by the window, staring silently at the still-dark sky. So much was bothering him now. After what happened to Lucas Donovan, his wife needed rest in this hospital because she was too exhausted.


    "Excuse me, Mr. Sinclair..."


    A man¡¯s voice surprised Tristan. He immediately turned around and saw a middle-aged man wearing a doctor¡¯s coat. His expression looked calm, but his gaze clearly expressed his worries. Behind him, several doctors and nurses were waiting near the door.


    Tristan walked towards him and extended his hand for a warm shakehand.


    "Uncle Fernon. I apologize for disturbing your sleep," Tristan sincerely said. He felt terrible because the Director of the S International Hospital for East City branch had to come to meet him early this morning.


    "No, Sir. I have to come here to greet you. I have already talked to the doctor about your wife, Mrs. Sinclair, condition. They said she would be fine when she woke up. But she still needs plenty of rest; her condition is too weak, especially as she is now carrying twins."

 Chapter 534: I Need Your Help, Jack!

    Tristan listened silently as Fernon Smith explained his wife¡¯s condition.


    After Fernon was done with his explanation, Tristan said, "Yes, I understand, uncle. Aunty Kelsey, my wife¡¯s Ob-gyn, also called me earlier to explain my wife¡¯s pregnancy and overall condition."


    "Ah, yes, she also calls me."


    "Uncle, let¡¯s talk outside," Tristan asked Fernon to sit on the sofa outside. He didn¡¯t want Bella to overhear their conversation and worried she would be awakened again.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m sorry to hear about your father-in-law," Fernon expressed his condolences.


    He had already instructed all staff on duty to provide first-rate facilities and service for Lucas Donovan¡¯s funeral. He just received confirmation from his staff that Lucas had arrived in their hospital an hour ago to be autopsied and would also be laid out in one of their facilities before being taken to his final resting place.


    "Thank you for everything, uncle. I appreciate your help and fast response. This is so sudden for us...and bother you like now."


    "Don¡¯t say that, Tristan," Fernon politely said. "We are glad to provide you and your wife¡¯s family the best care possible."


    Tristan said nothing but nodded.


    They continued to talk about a few more things regarding his father-in-law¡¯s funeral plan before Fernon finally excused himself and left Tristan to rest.


    However, Tristan still couldn¡¯t rest. The pressured matter still tortured his mind¡ªfinding a way to capture Marco.


    Leaning back on the couch with his eyes closed, Tristan tried again to sleep. But not long after, before he could sleep, his phone vibrated.


    When Tristan saw the name on the phone screen, he was shocked.


    ¡¯Jack Foster? Why did he call at this hour? Did he know about Bella¡¯s father?¡¯ Tristan wondered.


    Tristan remembered not yet telling any of Bella¡¯s friends about Lucas Donovan. He also believed Bella didn¡¯t have time to call them.


    Curious, he picks up the call, "Hi, Jack. Why are you calling me this early morning?"


    "Sorry if I interrupt your rest, Tristan. But I need to speak to Bella," Jack said. His voice sounded worried.


    "Have you heard about her father?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes, I just got info from Stefan. He told me everything about Bella¡¯s father. I tried to call her, but her cell phone was not active. Did she still sleep?"


    "Yes, my pregnant wife is indeed sleeping. She needs it." Tristan briefly tells him what happened to Bella.


    "I feel so sorry for her. I hope she will be alright," Jack said sincerely.


    "Thanks, man."


    "Did you or your team know who did it, Tristan? I mean, I know Lucas¡¯s death is unnatural. Someone killed him in his cabin. Stefan told me so."


    Tristan was no longer surprised. If Stefan knew about Lucas¡¯s present condition, it meant he knew everything else that had happened in the cabin.


    "It was Marco!" Tristan briefly answered.


    "What the hell?! How are you so sure about it!?"


    "Didn¡¯t Stefan tell you too? That wicked man left a note for me. And this is his second note. The statement is similar to the first. Nothing new. That lunatic will not stop here; he will return to harm my family."


    Tristan gritted his teeth as he stood from his seat and walked by the huge glass window. He could see the tinge of orange sky on the horizon as the sun was about to appear.


    "Why are you guys so slow to capture him!? I already gave you his actual identity...?" Jack was confused.


    "We try, but it isn¡¯t easy because of my government involvement. Our movement is limited to tracing him here. And, now, this bastard openly challenges¡ª" Suddenly, Tristan¡¯s voice trails off as he remembers something.


    His earlier anger and worry slowly faded as he said, "Jack, I need your help¡ª" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "My help? Sure, man. Everything you need. Tell me, what is it?"


    Tristan explained what he needed Jack to do.


    ***


    The next day.


    When Bella opened her eyes, she felt her body lighter and fresher, as if she had just awakened from a long, restful sleep. She stretched her hand but froze when she saw an IV needle tucked behind her palm, and she was wearing a hospital gown.


    Bella was shocked to realize she was in a hospital bed. Her husband was sleeping in a chair next to the bed with his head resting on the bed.


    ¡¯How did I end up here? What time is it?¡¯ Bella was even more surprised when she saw the bright sun.


    "Tristan...wake up," Bella called, uncomfortable with the IV needle. She needed him to call a doctor to remove it and was sorry to see him sleeping like that.


    Bella tried to sit, reach for Tristan¡¯s hand, and wake him up. But before her hand touched him, Tristan suddenly moved, raising his head and looking at her.


    "You¡¯re awake," he greeted in a hoarse voice. A faint smile slowly appeared on his exhausted face.


    Seeing his red eyes, caused by lack of sleep, made Bella sad.


    "Why are you sleeping there? You can sleep next to me. This bed is big enough for both of us," she said.


    "I was afraid you would wake up. So, I arranged for you to sleep more than me," Tristan said, putting a pillow behind her back so she could sit more comfortably.


    "Why am I here? What about my father?" Many questions were now racing through her mind.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer her immediately. He gave her a bottle of water before he took one for himself.


    "You passed out last night, dear. So I immediately brought you here. So you can rest more comfortably," Tristan explained calmly while sitting on the edge of the bed. His eyes stared into hers.


    "Your father¡¯s body is now in the hospital morgue after they performed an autopsy and prepared his body for the wake. It will be an opened casket wake. I have arranged so family and friends could pay their last respects."


    Bella felt her heart tighten again after hearing about her father.


    After trying to calm her emotions, she said, "I don¡¯t remember anything..." Bella¡¯s words trailed off as she held her baby bump. "Tr-Tristan, what about the twins?" Her voice shook with fear.

 Chapter 535: Who Killed Him?

    "Tr-Tristan, what about the twins?" Bella¡¯s voice shook with fear.


    Tristan¡¯s shoulders slumped slightly, but he hurriedly put aside his worry. He smiled at her before explaining, "Luckily, they are fine. But physically, you are exhausted..." He described her condition in detail. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella was shocked. She had never thought her condition would be that bad and could even endanger her pregnancy. She could feel her eyes moisten, blaming herself for being carried away with her emotions and not being careful with her pregnancy.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Tristan, to make you worry," Bella said, feeling terrible as she could see how exhausted he looked.


    Tristan said nothing but placed his hand on her warm cheek, which was now colored as usual, different from last night when he saw it. Last night, Bella¡¯s forehead was pale as if all her blood had left her face.


    "Where¡¯s Dax? Why didn¡¯t he come with you?" Bella asked, feeling worried about her son.


    "Dax is alright. He¡¯s staying at your Grandpa¡¯s house with the others. They will come here this afternoon."


    "I hope he doesn¡¯t worry about me," Bella remembered when she injured herself. Dax had worried about her a lot. He even cried in fright.


    "I called him earlier. He told me he was looking for us and was confused about why we weren¡¯t with him. But he understood when I explained your condition and was excited to come here later to see you..."


    "I miss him," Bella said with a shrug.


    Tristan felt worried when he saw Bella¡¯s gloomy expression. He distracted her from her longing for Dax by discussing her father¡¯s funeral arrangements.


    "Oh, by the way, your father will be buried tomorrow. So, all of his friends and other family members will come to the hospital today to bid him farewell for the last time."


    "So soon?" Bella was surprised to hear this. She had thought that her grandfather would wait until some relatives from other cities and abroad arrived before laying him to rest.


    "Your Grandpa didn¡¯t want to delay because your father¡¯s passing is unusual. He wanted to ensure that he could rest in peace," Tristan explained.


    Bella agreed with her Grandpa¡¯s decision. However, she couldn¡¯t shake the questions she had wanted to ask Tristan since last night¡ªShe had put them aside due to the presence of many family members.


    "Who killed him?"


    Tristan didn¡¯t want to hide anything from her, "Marco!"


    Instantly, Bella¡¯s face became red, hearing that bastard name. She gritted her teeth silently while hearing Tristan explain how Reid found a note at the crime scene.


    Bella feels like she wants to kill Marco with her hand. How dare he kill her father and challenge her husband like that?


    "So, what is your plan to capture that bastard!?" Bella asked.


    Tristan explained the situation they were facing now; they couldn¡¯t openly hunt Marco in this country. But he already made another plan with Jack¡¯s help. They will make sure Marco doesn¡¯t have room to move, just like cornering a rat in the trap.


    "Jack will expose Marco¡¯s crimes and make him an international fugitive. Using online media and current social media trends, we will ensure he has no place to hide in this country."


    "That sounds like a good plan. I hope your plan captures that bastard Marco faster," Bella commented. Whatever Tristan and Jack¡¯s plan is, she agrees.


    The most important thing for her is that they catch Marco!


    ***


    After the funeral, Natalie decides to return to her house. Despite her hatred for Lucas, she couldn¡¯t ignore that he was her first and last love. Losing him so fast and tragically was torturing her heart and mind, leaving her devastated.


    Natalie couldn¡¯t be mad at God for taking Lucas¡¯s life so fast because she knew that maybe this was Lucas¡¯s punishment for his past actions. However, whatever the reason, she wants to return to their house. Perhaps, by returning, Lucas would be happy and calm up there because this is what he wanted her to do.


    Not only will Natalie return to the house, but Henry will also stay in the East to accompany his mother before he returns to the lake-view villa to complete his training course.


    Bella and Tristan didn¡¯t stay in the East City for long. They returned to the capital the next day, but Noora remained in the East to accompany Natalie.


    ...


    When Bella arrives at her house, she is stunned to see Harper, Leo, and Stefan waiting for her in the living room. Seeing all her best friends there to support her made her heart swell.


    She turned to see Tristan.


    "Did you know about them?"


    "Hmm, I knew. The guard called me about it, and I allowed them to come in to surprise you," Tristan smiled at her.


    "Thank you, hubby," Bella whispered, happy he did it. She really needed to talk to them all.


    Tristan gently rubbed his wife¡¯s back before he offered a handshake to Leo and the others and excused himself and Dax to go upstairs, knowing that his wife needed a friend to talk to.


    Bella leads the three of them to the library to talk more privately.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella, for your loss," Harper is the first one to express her condolences. "I can¡¯t fly there to be with you in East City because of office matters."


    Harper feels terrible because she can¡¯t stand beside Bella on her sad day. She wants to fly there, but she and Leo have an annual meeting they can¡¯t abandon at the last minute.


    "Yes, Bella, I¡¯m sorry too. You know about our meeting, right?" Leo also feels sorry for not being able to be present in the East to accompany her.


    "It¡¯s fine, Harper, Leo¡­" Bella smiles at them. "What happened to my dad was so sudden. No need to blame yourself. I¡¯m fine now, and having you here is enough to make me feel better."


    "I hope your dad is resting peacefully now," Stefan said. He wanted to fly to East City two days ago, but Bella forbade him.


    "Thanks, Stefan," Bella glanced at him. She was surprised, looking at how dark his expression was now. "What happened? Why do you look annoyed?"


    "I¡¯m not annoyed, just lack of sleep," Stefan barely smiles at Bella. "You already know about Jack and your husband¡¯s plan, right?"


    Bella nods. "Yeah, I know¡ª"

 Chapter 536: A Glimmer Of Hope

    "What plan?" Harper asked curiously.


    "Tell us more," Leo also added. He was curious, just like Harper.


    Bella and Stefan exchange glances before they look at them.


    "We will expose Mad Dog¡¯s real identity and put him on the international fugitive list¡­" Stefan explained the details. "We did it because this country is too stupid and not brave enough to expose him." He growled with his gaze fixed on Harper.


    "That¡¯s good news to hear," Leo also vents his anger. "That motherfucker, Mad Dog, shall stay in prison and be tortured!"


    "Stefan! Why are you looking at me like you blame me for Mad Dog¡¯s crime?" Harper coldly said, her eyes narrowed at Stefan. "I¡¯m not Marco¡¯s friend, alright. And I don¡¯t know where he was either..." She said helplessly.


    "Yes, I know that, Boss Harper," Stefan said. A light smirk appears on his face before continuing, "But you are Sean Spencer, girlfriend. You should ask him to allow Tristan to expose Marco¡¯s real identity. Why bother thinking about people when that bastard tries to kill Bella¡¯s family? Did he know about it?"


    Everyone in the room was stunned hearing how Stefan expressed his annoyance to Sean Spencer.


    Harper let out a deep sigh. She couldn¡¯t blame Stefan for speaking harshly to her fianc¨¦, Sean. She had the same question that she wanted to ask Sean, but it was related to his work matters. She wondered if she should interfere in such a sensitive issue.


    Her eyes fixed on Stefan as she weakly said, "I¡¯m just his fianc¨¦e, Stefan. I¡¯m not his boss. Please don¡¯t blame me."


    "Stefan, you can¡¯t blame Harper for that. I believe Sean feels the same way as you," Bella tried to calm Stefan. "However, from what I¡¯ve heard, Sean is no longer on the team handling this matter. He might not know about Mad Dog killing my father..."


    "What Bella said is right, Stefan," Leo added.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Harper. I just feel sorry for sister Bella and am afraid something might happen to her," Stefan took a deep sigh and turned his gaze to the window to calm his annoyance.


    Seeing Stefan appear softened, Leo asked, "So, Stefan, if you put Mad Dog under international fugitive status, will that help Tristan or Sentinel Network catch him faster?"


    Stefan turned his gaze back to Leo and shook his head, "No. But going public will limit his movements and prevent him from killing other innocent people."


    "I see¡ª" There was a disappointed look in Leo¡¯s eyes upon hearing Stefan¡¯s words.


    Not only Leo but Bella and Harper were also disappointed.


    "But there is a way to capture him faster. And I believe this method will be more efficient in tracking criminals like Mad Dog..." Stefan¡¯s words were enough to make everyone¡¯s eyes light up, waiting for him to finish his sentence.


    "Stefan, please tell us more," Bella said, her curiosity clearly heard in her tone. A glimmer of hope visibly beamed in her eyes as she realized there might be a way to capture Marco faster.


    Stefan smiled at Bella.


    "Sister, this is a bit complicated because permission from your government is required to access public CCTV legally in this country. The technology owned by my other sister¡ªI believe you still remember about her?"


    Bella frowned slightly, trying to remember who Stefan was referring to.


    "Do you mean Mel Tan?" She asked.


    "Yes, that¡¯s her. Sister Mel has a technology called God Eye. She can find someone through CCTV, any machine connected to cameras and the internet, using their actual facial features. But she won¡¯t help if it¡¯s illegal. If you can get permission from the government, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll be happy to help."


    Bella¡¯s face immediately brightened upon hearing that. Getting permission wouldn¡¯t be difficult; she could ask Tristan to talk to Jayson Spencer. She believed Jayson would help them since Mad Dog was the country¡¯s public enemy.


    "Thank you, Stefan. I will talk to Tristan about it," Bella said excitedly. She couldn¡¯t wait to meet Tristan upstairs.


    "Wow! Stefan, do you know someone with that powerful technology?" Leo was stunned. He couldn¡¯t imagine the technology he usually saw in Hollywood movies was an actual, real-world technology. And Stefan knows who owns that tech.


    "Stefan, who is Mel Tan?" Harper asked. She was also amazed and curious to meet such a person.


    "Yes, I know someone who has that kind of power. But please keep this top secret," Stefan said, looking at each of them in turn.


    Seeing them nod, he continued, "The technology is dangerous. If bad people discover it, they will hunt my sister to obtain that tech." Stefan¡¯s expression turned serious. "So, what you hear will not leave this room¡ªeven you, Harper. Please, you can¡¯t tell Sean about it," he added.


    "I know, Stefan. I won¡¯t say anything, I promise you!" Harper nodded while making a sign with her hand, sealing her mouth.


    "Thank you," Stefan finally felt better, and they understood. However, somehow, he feels he is in trouble for exposing his mentor¡¯s huge secret to them.


    After a while, they talked about other things, no longer discussing the evil Mad Dog matters that made them angry with each other, especially Stefan and Harper. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They continued to talk about Leo¡¯s plans to marry Dana at the beginning of the year.


    "Have you got a wedding place yet?" Harper asked Leo.


    "Dana wanted a small wedding in her hometown. But, considering Bella was heavily pregnant and Mad Dog was still roaming around, I decided to get married in this city. In a safe place... unfortunately, we have not yet found a decent place."


    "Thank you, Leo," Bella smiled at him because he was thinking about her safety.


    Leo could only smile back at her.


    "You can use my house in Little Heaven. The view there is stunning during winter. And, there is also a big ballroom you can use for an indoor wedding."


    "Seriously?" Leo beamed upon hearing that.


    "Yes. My house and Grandpa¡¯s house are empty; you can use them. I will ask someone to prepare it for now. Also, the security there is very tight, so Tristan will allow me to attend your wedding."


    "Okay, deal! Thanks, Bella..." Leo stood from the chair and extended his hand to Bella to seal the deal. He was so happy!

 Chapter 537: Spring Arrived

    A few months later.


    Since her father¡¯s death, so many things have happened in Bella¡¯s life, and it seems to be moving fast.


    The cold winter was not as lovely as she had imagined, and a few of their end-of-year holiday plans had to be canceled.


    They were supposed to celebrate Tristan¡¯s birthday out of town, but they canceled it because they had just grieved¡ªLucas¡¯ sudden death. Also, the danger still lurked; they had not yet captured Mad Dog.


    On New Year¡¯s Eve, they only celebrated in their house with her family. She went nowhere except to the hospital for her monthly check-ups.


    Bella could only enjoy her cold winter when February approached. She left her house to attend Leo and Dana¡¯s wedding in Little Heaven.


    The small reunion was enough to make her enjoy the last winter before spring came. She could meet all her friends at the small private wedding party.


    However,


    Even now, the temperature was not as cold as it was; Bella still couldn¡¯t go anywhere because there was no good news about Mad Dog¡¯s whereabouts. But the good thing is that no one in her or Tristan¡¯s family got hurt. It seems Mad Dog lies low, hiding like a rat.


    Luckily, there is some good news: Mel Tan could finally help them in March. Her great help was the only hope of finding Mad Dog sooner.


    And, when the first spring finally hit the city after a long, cold winter, Bella felt she had gained so much weight.


    Pregnant with twins was very different when she was pregnant with Dax.


    Bella felt like her body was so heavy that her movement became limited. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Despite all this, she felt thankful because her husband was always there to help and pamper her.


    ***


    Bella¡¯s due date was at the end of April, just a day away.


    Her mother and Noora have returned and stay with her in the main house. Her grandpa and Tristan¡¯s grandpa have also returned to the capital. Although they remain in their own homes, they visit her almost every day.


    She was healthy enough to give birth naturally. Still, sometimes, she considered changing her mind and opting for a C-section just for the sake of convenience.


    However, when she imagined a knife cutting her belly and having a scar on her stomach for a while before having plastic surgery to remove it, she quickly dismissed the thought.


    "My darling, do you want breakfast in bed or prefer to go downstairs?"


    Tristan¡¯s voice suddenly distracts Bella from scrolling on her cell phone, where she is busy stalking her friends and celebrities on social media.


    She puts down her phone and looks at him. He looks neat in his white slim-fit shirt and dark gray trousers, ready to start his morning activities.


    Bella shakes her head and smiles at him before replying, "Hubby, please don¡¯t pamper me too much. I need to exercise and move around, or I might get into trouble when I deliver the baby..."


    She tries to wake up but finds it difficult; only when Tristan helps her can she sit on the edge of the bed.


    "Thank you¡ª"


    "Please don¡¯t say that. It¡¯s my pleasure and my duty to take care of my pretty pregnant wife. I missed doing it when you were pregnant with our first child. So I¡¯m not going to miss it this time," Tristan says as he sits beside her. She looks cuter, with her cheeks becoming slightly chubby.


    Placing his hand on her cheek, he leans closer to look her in the eyes and gently kisses her forehead.


    Just before Bella wants to stand up from the bed, Tristan stops her, holding her hand. She frowned, looking at him.


    "My darling wife, you don¡¯t have to bother walking around to exercise. But, we only need to exercise on the bed more often...I mean having sex¡ª" His words slowly fade when Bella¡¯s hand covers his mouth, stopping him from continuing.


    Bella is rendered speechless upon hearing his words. "Where did you hear that?" she asks. She is now suspicious that Tristan is also reading a pregnancy book to know something like that.


    "Aunty Kelsey told me. She said it will help ease you when you give birth naturally and strengthen your lower abdomen. So, she suggested we increase our sex activity near your due date."


    Bella¡¯s face turns red when she hears his words, but she says nothing to refute him; she is aware of that. She just feels slightly surprised and shy because he said it so casually.


    "Right? Do you agree with Aunty Kelsey?" Tristan smiled faintly when he saw her roll her eyes. "My dear, so, having sex only two times at night was not enough. Let¡¯s also do that during morning and¡ª"


    "Are you going to the office?" Bella interrupted him. This man never fails to amaze her. How could he sound like he is making a business deal with her about their sex activity? Gosh!


    Tristan could see his wife was shy, so he stopped teasing her.


    "I¡¯m not going to the office. However, I will hold online meetings with a few directors," he told her.


    "Oh, so you will take the day off today?" Her eyes beamed joy at the thought of Tristan being home with them.


    "Yes, dear. I did promise to take my month off to be with you near your due date. You remember, right?" he reminded her.


    She nodded.


    "Well, my day-long leave starts today. I wanted to stand by your side this time; I don¡¯t want to miss the chance again," Tristan said, his expression turning gloomy when he remembered that his wife had given birth alone in the past.


    Hearing this made Bella¡¯s heart feel warm and happy. But seeing how sad he was, she didn¡¯t say anything and simply rose from the bed and headed to the bathroom to start her morning routine, avoiding the topic of their sad past.


    Before long, Bella finished changing into her comfortable home clothes. She found Tristan waiting for her on the sofa.


    "Are you done?" he asked.


    "Yeah. Let¡¯s go. I¡¯m really starving now..."


    Tristan and Bella rushed to the dining room and were no longer surprised to see all their family there. The dining room became lively with her mother, Isaac Donovan, Lewis Sinclair, and Dax. Geoffrey and Noora were also there and served them warm food.


    They all enjoyed their breakfast while engaging in conversation.


    ...


    After breakfast, the others returned to their activities. Isaac and Lewis went back to play chess at Lewis¡¯s house. Tristan excused himself to start work, and Dax had a music class that morning.


    Bella sat in the living room with her mother, discussing what had happened in East City.


    Her mother updated Bella about her brother, Henry, who had returned to the Donovan Group main office and became a manager for a small division.


    Hearing about her brother¡¯s success made Bella proud and relieved.


    "No wonder Grandpa is looking happier nowadays," Bella commented.


    "Hmm, your grandpa was so happy because he still has hope in your brother after what happened to his sons, and there is no one he could trust to continue his legacy, the company he built, Donovan Group," Natalie said. A trace of sadness flashed through her gaze as she remembered again about Lucas, but Bella failed to notice it.


    "I am proud of him. I hope my brother finds his wife soon," Bella smiled, thinking Henry would marry and have a child.


    Natalie laughed upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    "You know what, Bella? I also think like that. I told him to find a girl, but your brother said he didn¡¯t have time to meet one now. He just wanted to work diligently and prove to you and your Grandpa that he was capable of working at the main office." Natalie explained.


    "Gosh! We already saw that. He doesn¡¯t have to prove anything," Bella chuckled, shaking her head.


    "I know. Well, your brother and aunt promised they would come to see you once you give birth," Natalie said excitedly. "You can speak to him later when you guys meet."


    "I will¡ª" Bella¡¯s voice trailed off when the breaking news on the television distracted her. Her heart raced when she read the running line on the bottom screen: International Fugitive Capture in Vale City.


    ¡¯They capture, Mad Dog?¡¯


    Bella immediately grabbed the TV remote to raise the television volume to hear the news more clearly.


    ¡¯That¡¯s him! It must be him, Mad Dog!¡¯ Bella wondered as she stood from her seat. She wanted to find Tristan and tell him about it.


    "Bella, what happened?" Natalie also stood and walked behind Bella, looking worried at her shocked expression after hearing the news. "Are you feeling alright?"


    "Mom," Bella stopped and looked at her mother. "I¡¯m fine. Sorry, I have to go upstairs to find Tristan. There¡¯s something I need to talk to him about¡ª"


    Bella rushes to the stairs leading to the second floor. At this moment, she didn¡¯t have time to explain to her mother. She only wanted to meet Tristan to convince herself that the person on the news was Mad Dog, A.K.A. Marco.

 Chapter 538: They Captured Marco!?

    When Bella opened the door to Tristan¡¯s office, she saw him on the phone by the window, his back facing her.


    However, Tristan seemed to hear the door open, turned to see the direction of the door, and signaled her to come closer.


    Standing next to Tristan, Bella could hear their conversation. At that moment, she found the answer she wanted to hear; they had indeed captured Marco, the person who was responsible for her father¡¯s death.


    She knew from the autopsy report results that her father didn¡¯t have any harm, only a cut on his neck. This meant that her father didn¡¯t picture Marco as a threat. So many thoughts filled her mind as she tried to figure out what happened at the crime scene that day.


    Too immersed in her thoughts, Bella didn¡¯t notice that Tristan had already finished talking. She pulled back from her thoughts when Tristan turned her body to face him.


    "My darling wife, let¡¯s sit first..." Tristan said while leading her to settle on the sofa. However, he didn¡¯t sit with her immediately. Still, he walked to the minibar, poured a cold sparkling water bottle into a crystal glass, and gave it to her.


    Bella said nothing but accepted it and emptied the glass in just a few seconds. She was indeed thirsty now, and her throat felt so hot that she could feel the symptoms of a heat-stroke hitting her.


    After putting the empty crystal glass on the coffee table, she looked at him and asked, "So, is the man they captured confirmed as Marco? The real one?"


    Hearing her question, Tristan smiled lightly as he nodded.


    "Yes, they finally captured him yesterday, but they only released the news today for safety. We suspect he still has many followers out there," he explained.


    "Yes, he might have. He couldn¡¯t succeed in hiding for long if no one helped him," Bella commented.


    "True. That¡¯s why Owen and his team are treating this case carefully. And they also wanted to ensure the one they captured was the right person, not his alter body again."


    Bella slightly nodded, agreeing with his words. They are dealing with the cunning Marco.


    "Oh, right. Did they catch him using the technology from Ms. Tan?" Bella asked. She remembered they only started using the tech last month and already got results within a month.


    "Yes, of course," Tristan continues to tell her everything he heard from Owen.


    Bella was pleased to hear that. She was so grateful that Stefan had contributed significantly to bringing Mel Tan¡¯s tech to the country and helping them deal with public enemies like Mad Dog.


    Now, the danger lurking behind them no longer exists. She can go out freely without worrying about Marco anymore. She also doesn¡¯t have to worry about her family¡¯s safety.


    Tristan was impressed as he saw her eyes beaming and her smile no longer carrying the sadness and worries he usually sees when discussing this matter.


    "Are you that happy hearing this news?" he asked.


    "Why do you even ask? Of course, I am..." Bella said, placing her head on his shoulder and wrapping her hand around his arm.


    "I¡¯m glad I finally see the happy light in your eyes, dear," he responded.


    "Hmm," Bella replied, but then something crossed her mind. "Tristan..." She quickly lifted her head to meet his eyes.


    He frowned, "Yes? What is it, dear?"


    "If you allow me, I want to confront him. I want to ask him directly why he killed my father," Bella¡¯s voice trembled, unable to hold back her emotions as she remembered how frightening her father was at that time.


    Bella paused to breathe when she felt Tristan squeeze her hand gently as if trying to keep her from getting carried away by her haters toward Marco. She took a deep breath and tried to dismiss her anger.


    After feeling her heart lighten and no longer too angry with Marco, Bella continued, "And I want to ask that evil man, Marco, what he said to my dad to make him seem not to fight for his life..."


    Tristan¡¯s expression slowly turned gloomy upon hearing her hollow words. But he hurriedly smiled at her, even though he could feel his smile didn¡¯t come from his heart. He hated Mad Dog, too, for what he did to Lucas Donovan.


    Like her, Tristan wanted to know what happened that day, but even if she pleaded, he would never let her meet that evil man, Marco.


    If he had a chance, Tristan wanted to torture Mad Dog with his hand and make him speak, but he could not do that because this case involved this nation¡¯s military. Even though he is close enough to Jayson Spencer, Jayson can¡¯t help him with personal matters.


    "I¡¯m sorry, Bella. You know I will not allow you to do that, right?"


    "Yeah, I know."


    He caressed her hair gently and said, "But I can promise you that man will get his heavy punishment. He will never get out of prison till his end of life." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella smiles silently. Although she knows Tristan will never allow her, she still feels slightly annoyed to hear his confirmation.


    "Alright, dear, there¡¯s no need to think about that Evil Marco anymore," Tristan said, pulling her into his arms and embracing her for a while. "Dear, you seem to need to nap now; I can feel you are sleepy and exhausted..."


    No words could be heard from Bella¡¯s lips. However, she felt her heart race the moment she felt something between her legs as if she was just pee, but it wasn¡¯t pee. Suddently she remembers something.


    "OH MY GOD!!" Bella pushes Tristan slightly away from him and looks at him in shock. "T-Tristan, I think....the water is breaking."


    "What is breaking!?" Tristan was shocked and confused as he heard her words. But, still in his shock, he knew what happened once he looked at her white-as-paper face as if she had just seen a ghost enter his home office.


    Bella didn¡¯t reply to him, but she looked at her lower abdomen and saw the sofa turn wet.


    "Tristan, my water broke," Bella¡¯s voice trembled, still not expecting this to happen now. "I think I¡¯m going to give birth today!"

 Chapter 539: Finally, She Gives Birth

    While Tristan and Bella were in the labor room, ready to deliver the twins, Natalie and Noora waited in the VIP room. Dax and Geoffrey were also with them, but unlike Natalie and Noora, both men looked tense.


    Dax showed concern for his mother, who is now in the labor room. He repeatedly asked Natalie or Noora to take him there, but they refused. Geoffrey also refused to lead him there.


    "Oh, my dear Dax, come here. Come sit with Granny. What is with your face? You look worried, Dax. There is no need to worry about your mother, dear. She is fine.


    The best doctor is taking care of her and will help her deliver the twins, and your father is there to accompany her."


    Natalie once again tries to convince him to sit beside her and relax.


    Still, Dax ignores her with his serious-looking toddler looks; his mind is not at ease and still feels tense.


    Noora smiled at Dax¡¯s tension and nervousness. Looking how he paced in the room back and forth and constantly glanced toward the door as if he wanted to see someone come to inform them about his mother¡¯s condition.


    "Young master, what your Granny said is undeniably true. Your mother will be alright. Come here, enjoy ice cream while you wait." Noora said. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Taking a deep sigh, Dax finally gave up and joined them. He accepted Noora¡¯s vanilla ice cream. But the cute kid didn¡¯t enjoy the ice cream right away. Instead, he looked at her with a slight frown on his forehead.


    "Aunty Noora, why did my Mom look in pain before she entered the labor room? If she¡¯s alright, she won¡¯t look like that," Dax voiced his curiosity.


    Dax remembers that his mother said the twins would only be born the following week, not this week. But today, they had to rush to the hospital.


    Earlier, he saw his mother in pain before the doctor moved her to another room, which worried him. The nurse had mentioned that his mother was about to deliver the twins. However, after three long hours, no one had come to the room to update them on his mother¡¯s condition, which made him increasingly nervous.


    Noora couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly as she recalled when Bella gave birth to Dax a few years ago. Bella had struggled alone without her husband and family, and it was just the two of them in the hospital at the time. Remembering those moments made Noora¡¯s heart ache slightly.


    She didn¡¯t want to show her bitter expression to Dax, so Noora quickly pushed aside those painful memories and smiled at him.


    "It¡¯s normal, Dax. But don¡¯t worry; the discomfort and pain your mother experienced earlier only lasted for a moment. When the twins are born, your mother will be much better again," Noora tried to explain, hoping he wouldn¡¯t ask any more questions and would wait while enjoying his ice cream.


    However, Dax¡¯s curiosity persisted.


    "But why is it taking so long? It¡¯s been more than three hours since they took my Mom..."


    "Because your mother will give birth to two babies at once, not just one. She needs more time." Noora faintly smiles, and Dax finally nods. She continues her words, "Alright, little man, hurry up and eat your ice cream, or it will melt and make your hand sticky."


    Dax didn¡¯t ask any more questions. He forced himself to act his age and enjoy his ice cream.


    ***


    Meanwhile, in the labor room, Bella was covered in sweat, crying joyfully as she saw her two babies on her chest. She couldn¡¯t believe how easily she had given birth naturally. Delivering the twins was much different from when she had given birth to Dax.


    Bella hadn¡¯t even realized her contractions had started and that her water had already broken. She only felt the contractions when she arrived at the hospital.


    Within only a few hours of being in the delivery room, her contractions were getting more intense. When Dr. Kelsey Robinson arrived in the labor room, her cervix was fully dilated to deliver her baby.


    She gave birth to her first child, a daughter, and her youngest son followed a few minutes later.


    The pain was bearable, perhaps because her husband, Tristan, was with her, holding her hand and trying to distract her from the pain.


    Just looking at his calm yet concerned expression was enough to distract her from the pain of her contractions.


    The only discomfort she felt during labor was the intense cold, as if she were naked at the North Pole, the cold seeping into her pores and chilling her to the bone. The cold made her shiver uncontrollably.


    However, when she looked at the two tiny babies on her chest, trying to find their food, her heart forgot everything: her pain and the bone-chilling cold.


    Her eyes welled with tears, and her heart swelled as she watched the babies move and heard their adorable first cries.


    "Tristan, our babies look so tiny and cute," Bella whispers while trying to touch their wrinkled cheeks. Look, the baby boy; he looks calmer than his sister." Hearing her baby girl cry makes her heart feel warm.


    Tristan¡¯s happy smile emerges on his nervous lips. After seeing his wife no longer in pain, his heart stops beating miles per minute.


    Now, as he looks at the two tiny babies, each the size of a wine bottle, he can¡¯t help but worry. They look so small and vulnerable. Despite his concerns, the joy in his heart is indescribable. He longed for this feeling and is incredibly grateful to God for making it happen, standing beside his wife to witness this magical moment.


    "They look so small and cute," Tristan smiled. "Congratulations, my wife," he said while looking at her teary eyes. He leaned closer and kissed her eyes before moving to kiss her forehead. "I¡¯m so proud of you. Thank you so much for giving birth to our babies..."


    "They are so cute! Thank you, too, for being able to stand beside me, Tristan." Bella couldn¡¯t express how happy she was now; she could only cry¡ªa cry of gratitude for her joy and happiness.


    After a short while, the two nurses standing next to Bella turned their attention to their happy moments.


    "Ma¡¯am, Sir, we need to take the babies to clean them. We will bring them back after they are cleaned," a senior nurse said before taking the babies, causing Bella to worry as she watched her twins being taken away.


    "Bella, they will clean you before you return to your Maternity Care Patient Room. And Tristan, you can follow the babies if you¡¯re worried about them," Kelsey said, amusedly observing Tristan eyeing the nurse in the other room.


    Even though this is his hospital, Tristan does not entirely trust the nurse, or is he just too paranoid? He didn¡¯t know, but he only wanted to ensure his babies were safe.


    "Can I?" Tristan asked Bella¡¯s opinion, worried about leaving her alone.


    "Yes, go and accompany them. Dr. Kelsey is here with me," she smiled, looking at Tristan leaving the room.


    Kelsey Robinson smiled at Bella while holding her hand. "Congratulations, Bella. I can finally help you give birth to your little babies."


    Bella smiled through her eyes as she said, "Thank you again, doc. I am so happy. Too happy to be able to express it in words."

 Chapter 540: Bella Feels Complete Happiness

    It was almost seven in the evening when Bella could finally move to her maternity care room to meet her family. She was excited to see them all, especially her son, Daxton.


    Tristan pushed her wheelchair while Dr. Kelsey Robinson pushed the baby¡¯s infant carriage. Carlos was with them as they rode the elevator to the twentieth floor.


    As the elevator door slowly opened, Bella¡¯s eyes beamed when she saw her family waiting for them. Her Grandpa, Isaac Donovan, was standing beside Lewis Sinclair. She also saw her mother with Noora; their teary eyes were looking at her, and she smiled at them.


    When Bella¡¯s eyes fixed on her son, Daxton, tears slowly filled her eyes, and her heart raced with happiness. She was overjoyed to finally meet him.


    Bella knew that Daxton must be worried about her.


    "My dear Daxton, come here... let mommy embrace you," she said, opening her arms wide.


    Tristan pushed her wheelchair closer to Dax. With her baby son in her arms, Bella feels complete happiness.


    "Are you worried about Mommy?" she whispers near his ear.


    "Yes. You¡¯ve been gone too long, Mom. I feel worried..." Dax responds faintly.


    "I¡¯m sorry to make you wait that long, my son," Bella said. She released her embrace and looked into his calm but bright blue eyes, which stared back at her.


    "Do you want to see the babies?" Bella asked. She smiled at him when she saw his eyes widen.


    Dax didn¡¯t say anything but nodded, his curious gaze focusing on the infant carriage pushed by Dr. Kelsey. He wanted to glimpse the babies, but a thin white cloth covered the carriage. He couldn¡¯t see anything.


    "Alright, let¡¯s head to the room first," Tristan said, interrupting the joyful moment between Bella and Dax. "You need to rest, too."


    Bella nodded as she held Dax¡¯s hand, and the wheelchair started moving. Dr. Kelsey and Carlos also moved, pushing the baby carrier.


    Natalie and Noora, along with two grandpas, surround the baby carrier. They all wanted to carry the babies, but Dr. Kelsey stopped them.


    "Wait until we get to the room," Kelsey Robinson said, smiling politely at them.


    As they made their way to the room, Natalie couldn¡¯t wait to congratulate her daughter. She feels so proud and happy of her.


    "Congratulations, Bella, Tristan," Natalie said, looking at her daughter with teary eyes.


    Bella looked up to meet her gaze. "Thank you, Mom."


    "Thank you, Mother¡ª" Tristan also responds.


    ***


    Bella settled into the room and sat on her bed. She started to tell her mother and Noora about her labor, but not long after, they both left her to look after the twins.


    Her mother, Noora, Dax, and her two grandpas surrounded the twins and seemed more curious about them than her.


    Bella could only chuckle as she gazed at Tristan, who was sitting by the bed, peeling fruit for her.


    "It seems like they¡¯re not interested in me now," Bella said faintly, receiving a small bowl of fruit from him.


    Tristan frowned as he looked at the seating area and saw Dr. Kelsey, the pediatrician, and a nurse explaining something to Natalie and Noora. After a while, he turned his gaze back to Bella.


    "Do you want me to take the twins from them and ask them to go to their room?" Tristan asked.


    He had already prepared a few rooms on this floor for his family to stay in the hospital so they wouldn¡¯t have to go back and forth to their house.


    Bella looked at Tristan¡¯s thoughtful expression and faintly smiled at him. She then shook her head hurriedly.


    "No need; they should have dinner soon, right? Did you forget to ask someone to provide dinner?"


    When she returned to the room, Bella didn¡¯t see Geoffrey or Noora preparing dinner. The twins¡¯ presence seemed to make them forget about it.


    Tristan immediately stood up, realizing his mistake. This is already past dinner time.


    "You¡¯re right. I forgot... I will ask Geoffrey to prepare dinner for them."


    "Hmm, I believe Dax is already hungry. And, hubby, I am also hungry. I can feel my body demand more food to produce enough milk for the twins," Bella said with a faint smile, looking at Tristan¡¯s tense expression.


    ***


    Bella and Tristan found the first night with the twins challenging because they didn¡¯t have enough time to sleep.


    Despite Bella¡¯s initial reluctance to have a nurse care for the twins, Tristan, her mother, and Noora took care of the babies themselves.


    Bella was grateful she could breastfeed the twins without any issues, as she had enough milk for both. She had to wake up every hour to breastfeed them alternately.


    Finally, towards early morning, Bella was able to fall asleep soundly.


    She didn¡¯t know how long she slept but remembered waking up once to pump her breast milk and saving it for the twins. Her abundant milk caused her breasts to become significantly enlarged, and she felt tight and sore if she didn¡¯t pump it out.


    ...


    When Bella woke up, she saw Tristan still sleeping beside her. She noticed how tired he looked.


    Bella didn¡¯t see her twins in the carrier beside her bed. She assumed they must be with Noora or her mother.


    Trying to wake up slowly to avoid disturbing Tristan, Bella searched for her bag and found her cell phone.


    She checked the time; it was only seven in the morning. She needed to inform her friends now, or she might not have time once the twins returned, as she would be busy with them.


    She typed a text in the group chat:


    [Bella] Hey guys, I gave birth last night. If you want to see the twins, call Geoffrey. He¡¯ll tell you how to meet me.


    Suddenly, the group chat that had been inactive for a few weeks became lively again.


    [Jack] Wow, why did you give birth early? Wasn¡¯t the plan for next week?


    [Stefan] Sis, I think the twins want to meet me before I return to New York! I can see your child before I fly back.


    [Jack] Stefan, you¡¯ve been away for too long. Come back here today. I need to visit the twins.


    [Stefan] Chill, Boss Jack! I¡¯ll return as scheduled. Don¡¯t worry.


    [Harper] Congratulations, Bella! I¡¯ll visit you today with Sean.


    [Leo] I never thought I¡¯d see this chat active again.


    [Leo] Bella, congratulations! Dana and I will also visit you.


    [Sam] Boss Bella, congrats! By the way, have you given them their names yet? Let me know if you need some ideas for the twins¡¯ names.


    Bella¡¯s smile slowly faded when she read Sam¡¯s question. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 541: The Twins’ Name

    Bella¡¯s smile slowly faded when she read Sam¡¯s question.


    A few weeks ago, Tristan suggested some names, but she hadn¡¯t decided what to name the twins.


    "Good morning, dear¡ª"


    Tristan¡¯s voice startled Bella. She immediately put her phone back on the table and hurriedly walked toward the bed.


    As if knowing something was bothering her, Tristan pushed away the blanket and sat on the edge of the bed. Looking at her worriedly, he asked, "What happened? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Bella shook her head and stood before him.


    "We have something important to do now, Tristan. This is really....really...important!"


    Tristan was even more confused as he took her hand and squeezed it gently.


    "What is so important and urgent that my wife looks worried this early in the morning?" he asked, leaning closer to kiss her, but Bella pulled her body slightly away.


    "Uh, hubby, I¡¯m serious. Please hear me first," Bella sighed, narrowing her eyes at him.


    When she saw him nod and no longer try to kiss her, she continued, "I don¡¯t want the twins nameless for too long. We should name the twins now. But I¡¯m still confused about their names...For God¡¯s sake! Why can¡¯t I decide on such a simple matter when I¡¯ve been in much tougher matters before? By the way, the name you suggest all sounds pretty. But¡ª"


    Bella couldn¡¯t continue speaking when she saw him gasp in surprise.


    Tristan also forgot about it. They indeed had a few options for the name but had not yet decided anything. After thinking for a few more seconds, he led her to sit beside him.


    "All the names you suggested were good. And now, I¡¯m puzzled," Bella continued her words.


    "I know. We have a few good options," Tristan paused, and later, an idea appeared. "Oh, Bella, how about this? You choose our girl¡¯s name, and I choose our son¡¯s?"


    Bella immediately nodded, her eyes beaming with happiness upon hearing his idea.


    Why hadn¡¯t she thought of that? It would be easier if they chose each name.


    "I already have the name for our baby girl," Bella said excitedly. The name she had in mind was the one she had kept if her first child was a girl, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a boy. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that time, she didn¡¯t have a name for a son, and the name that came to mind was Max, which she always heard on Tristan¡¯s lips every time he made a phone call. When the hospital staff asked about the name, she named her first son Daxton.


    And now, having a daughter, the name she had in mind fit her baby girl perfectly.


    "Oh, seriously, you already decided!?" Tristan asked curiously. "Tell me, what¡¯s our daughter¡¯s name?"


    "AURORA Sinclair!" Bella said, holding Tristan¡¯s hands tightly, too excited to call her daughter by that name. It sounds pretty and reminds her of the beautiful things she has in North Sweden, Aurora¡ªThe northern light.


    "Aurora Sinclair..." Tristan repeated her words, and a smile slowly appeared on his lips. "The name is so beautiful, dear. I never thought of such a name but really like it," he said while gently tapping her hand.


    "Yeah, I know! That¡¯s the name I had in mind for our first child. But when I discovered our first child was a boy, that name still stayed in my heart. And I¡¯m so happy to use it now for our little daughter."


    "Hmm, that name is so fitting for our daughter," Tristan said while thinking about the name for their youngest son. He also has a name in mind that he wants to give to his son, but he worries that Bella will not like it.


    "Alright, now it¡¯s your turn, Tristan." Bella can¡¯t wait to hear what name Tristan chooses for their son.


    Tristan was reluctant to say, but when he saw her beautiful gray eyes beaming at him, he smiled and said, "Oliver Sinclair... how is that? Do you agree with the name?" he asked worriedly.


    For a few more seconds, Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She was too stunned to hear the name Tristan had chosen for their youngest son.


    "You didn¡¯t like the name?" he asked.


    Bella snapped. As she turned her gaze back to Tristan, she shook her head.


    "I like it. I also like the name ¡¯Oliver¡¯ from your list. And now I hear you chose that, I¡¯m speechless. How could we choose the same name and never tell each other? It made us puzzled... until now." She chuckled.


    Tristan was also surprised. He thought the option made it hard for her to choose. That¡¯s why they never decided anything, and every time they talked about it, they ended up not expressing the name they wanted.


    "Really... You like the name?"


    "Yes, yes... I like Oliver! Oliver Sinclair sounds cool."


    "Alright now, we decided to name them Aurora and Oliver..."


    "Hmm..." Bella feels relieved. Finally, she will no longer be confused if someone asks.


    "Oh, right, you will add ¡¯Donovan¡¯ in their middle name just like Dax?" Bella asked.


    "Yes, I will name them like their older brother. Besides, I don¡¯t want your Grandpa mad at me." Tristan smiles, imagining Isaac will give him a cold shoulder again, just like in the past¡ªIsaac Donovan punished him badly after Bella left.


    Bella couldn¡¯t hold back her happy tears when she heard his words. She was so delighted for her Grandpa that Tristan would put his name into their child¡¯s name.


    "Thank you, Tristan," Bella said, throwing herself into his arm and wrapping her hand tight around him. "Thank you so much...."


    "Don¡¯t say thank you. This is the only thing I could do to correct my past mistakes to you and your Grandpa," Tristan replied sincerely.


    Bella said nothing but tightened her embrace. However, when Tristan did the same, tightening his arms around her, she felt her chest hurting. She pushed him away, causing him to be confused.


    "What happened?" Tristan asked worriedly.


    "I need to find the twins; my breastfed milk is full!"


    Tristan smiled upon hearing her words. He held her hand and said, "Can you allow me to¡ª"


    Bella¡¯s eyes widened as she looked at his sultry expression. She stood up from the bed and hurriedly walked to the door.


    "Tsk...Tsk...Mr. Sinclair, you are such a pervert!" she smiles, leaving Tristan to laugh bitterly.

 Chapter 542: You Will Become The Best Big Bro

    In the seating area outside her bedroom, Bella found her mother and Noora holding the twins, with a nurse sitting nearby. They seemed engrossed in conversation and didn¡¯t notice her presence.


    Bella smiled, feeling her heart warm as she watched them caring for her babies so that she could get more sleep.


    "Mom, Aunty¡­" Bella approached them, causing them to stop speaking and turn to see her.


    "Bella, you are already awake?" Natalie asked her, concerned. She felt sorry for her daughter; she fed the babies every hour last night. Near dawn, she and Noora had taken the babies so that her daughter could sleep more.


    "Yes, Mom. I think I sleep too much, Mom," Bella smiled at her mother before sitting beside her. She saw the baby in her mother¡¯s arms; it was her daughter.


    Before Bella could take Aurora from her mother, Noora interrupted her.


    "Young madam, you¡¯re not sleeping enough. I know you only slept for two hours," Noora said, looking worriedly at Bella. She could see her exhaustion radiating in her eyes.


    "Two hours?" Bella was taken aback upon hearing that. No wonder she felt her body was not quite right when walking. She also felt her head spinning slightly.


    "You can sleep again, dear. Don¡¯t worry about the twins; they¡¯ve just fallen asleep. If they wake up, they still have their milk ready..." Natalie smiled and pointed to two breast milk bottles on the coffee table.


    Natalie continued when Bella seemed surprised: "And there¡¯s a stock in the fridge, too. You did a great job. You pumped a few breast milk bags last night for the twins, enough for them to drink until noon."


    Bella was taken aback to hear that. Last night, she was too exhausted to remember how many milliliters of breast milk she produced.


    "But I have to pump my milk again, Mom. I can feel my breasts so full and tight now. I won¡¯t be able to sleep feeling like this," she said while gently touching her swollen and hardened breasts. "And I¡¯m hungry too."


    The nurse overheard them and stood up, politely saying, "Let me help you, madam. I will prepare the pumping kit and ask someone to prepare your early breakfast."


    "Thank you," Bella replied, following the nurse to another room.


    ***


    Not long after, Bella finished pumping breast milk. At the same time, Noora came to help her clean up before she joined Tristan and Dax for breakfast.


    They were waiting for her in the dining room next to her bedroom.


    She sat beside Dax and embraced him before she enjoyed her breakfast. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, not long after, Dax¡¯s request surprised her.


    "Mom, can I hold the twins?"


    Bella turned to look at him, "I thought you held them last night?"


    "Yes, but only for a while. I¡­" Dax¡¯s voice trailed off. He seemed to be trying to find the right words, making Bella and Tristan tense as they waited for him to finish his sentence.


    "Yesterday, I was so nervous. They looked so fragile, and I was worried I would hurt them. So, I only hold them only briefly. I think less than a minute." There was a disappointed look in his eyes.


    Bella smiled and felt relieved. She thought it had been something that had annoyed him.


    Tristan also smiled, relieved. He patted Dax¡¯s shoulder gently.


    "Sure, buddy. After you finish breakfast, you can help Mommy look after them; how¡¯s that sound?"


    "Okay, Dad. I will help, Mommy. Mom, I promise you, I will be much more gentle with them..." Dax¡¯s eyes beamed. He said no words and finished his breakfast faster than usual.


    "I know you will, dear. And Mom thinks you will become the best big bro for them..." Bella smiled when she saw him nod excitedly and happily.


    "Oh right, Mom, Dad, what should I call the twins? Have you named them?" Dax asked after finishing his breakfast.


    "Yes, buddy. Mom and Dad have named the twins," Tristan replied, excited to tell him his siblings¡¯ names.


    "Really? What are their names?" Dax asked eagerly.


    Before Tristan told him, Bella held his hand. She wanted to tell her son this good news, "Your little sister¡¯s name is Aurora, and your little brother¡¯s name is Oliver."


    "What do you think? Do you like the names we give to your little brother and sister?" Tristan asked when he noticed Dax¡¯s expression.


    Dax nodded, "I like their names. They sound cool..." He smiled as he stood up from his seat. "Mom, Dad, let¡¯s go see them."


    Tristan and Bella exchanged glances, both smiling. They were happy to hear that Dax agreed with the names.


    Bella immediately followed Dax to return to her bedroom. She missed her babies after her mother and Aunt Noora had taken care of the twins since early this morning.


    "Oh no¡­ They¡¯re both still asleep, Mom," Dax was disappointed to see the babies sleeping soundly in their crib.


    Bella placed her hand on Dax¡¯s shoulder, trying to cheer him up.


    "How about you play with Daddy outside until they wake up? Letting your brother and sister sleep would be good for them. I will call you when they wake up. Agree?" she suggested.


    "Yes, buddy. Let¡¯s walk outside." Tristan held Dax¡¯s hand and gently led him out of the room to let Bella sleep more with the twins in the same room.


    ***


    On the second day after Bella gave birth to the twins, almost all her family spent the day with them in the hospital.


    Aunt Emma and Henry arrived in the morning but didn¡¯t stay overnight because they had to work. They returned to East City in the afternoon but promised to revisit them this weekend.


    Meanwhile, Isaac, Donovan, and Lewis Sinclair stayed overnight in the same hospital. Bella¡¯s mother and Aunt Noora were also there to help her.


    In the evening, Bella was even more excited because her friends were coming to visit. She hadn¡¯t seen them for almost two weeks and missed them all.


    Not only her friends but also Tristan¡¯s close friends would come to visit them. She was excited about this little reunion.

 Chapter 543: Reunion With Friends (1)

    In the evening, in Bella¡¯s maternity room, she was ready for her warm reunion with her friends.


    "Mommy, will Uncle Stefan come too?" Dax asked.


    "Yes, he will come with Uncle Sam," Bella gently ruffled his soft hair. "Are you excited to meet him?" she asked.


    "Yes, Mom. I have a question for him..."


    "What question do you want to ask me, little man?" Stefan¡¯s voice from the door surprised Dax and Bella. They were both excited to see him.


    "Uncle Stefan, you finally came..." Dax jolted from his seat and ran toward him.


    "Hello, Daxton. It¡¯s nice to meet you again," Stefan said, warmly embracing him. At the same time, he nodded at Bella and Tristan.


    "Uncle Stefan, I have something to tell you." Dax¡¯s round blue eyes beamed as he spoke.


    "Yes, what is it?"


    "I created a few games. I want you to check them for me," Dax reported to Stefan excitedly. He had already discussed it with Max but still needed Stefan¡¯s opinion.


    Bella and Tristan were surprised to hear their five-year-old son had already created his own game. Curious, they looked at Stefan to see his reaction.


    Stefan also wore the same surprised expression as Bella and Tristan, but only briefly before he calmly smiled, looking at how excited Dax was.


    "You are indeed a genius, my man."


    Dax smiled widely, hearing Stefan¡¯s praise, "I will show you, Uncle..."


    Stefan glanced at Bella as if wanting permission from her. When he saw her nod, he turned to Dax again. "Alright, let¡¯s go. Did you bring your laptop here?"


    "Uncle, my advanced laptop is in the next room," Dax said, taking Stefan¡¯s hand and going to another room where he had put his stuff.


    However, Tristan stops him before he leads Stefan to another room. "Dax, how about letting Uncle Stefan meet your brother and sister first? Agree?" he said, amused by his son¡¯s enthusiasm.


    "Oh, my bad! How come I forget?" Dax smiled while nodding at his father.


    Tristan ruffled Dax¡¯s hair before offering Stefan a warm handshake. "Thank you for coming, Stefan," he knew he could never thank Stefan enough, as they managed to capture Mad Dog because of him.


    "I had to come, or my sister would kick my ass," Stefan smiled at Bella. "Am I right, sis?"


    Bella greeted Stefan with a warm embrace. "Don¡¯t slander me, Brother; I¡¯m not that bad. Did you come alone?"


    After they released their embrace, Stefan shook his head. "I came with the old man, but he is too slow, so I left him behind."


    Bella was speechless. How could he leave Sam behind and come here alone? Just before Bella could speak, Sam entered the room with so much stuff in his hands.


    "Sam, you finally came," Bella said, feeling sorry for him spending so much money on her. "Why did you bring so many gifts?"


    "This is not much, and it was not expensive, but I chose all the presents for the twins by myself. I hope it means something to them someday," Sam awkwardly explained as he offered three shopping bags to Tristan. "And here. The last gift is for you, Boss. I hope you like it."


    Bella was stunned when she saw the brand name; it was her favorite clothing brand.


    "Oh, Sam, you also bought a gift for me? And you are shopping for clothes? That¡¯s something new of you¡­" she didn¡¯t expect Sam to remember a gift for her: branded clothes!


    "Of course, Boss. You are the one who works hard here, so you deserved a gift, too, right?" Sam chuckled when he saw Bella seem to be holding her tears.


    "Sam, it¡¯s so kind of you," Bella softly said, feeling her heart swell.


    Sam¡¯s words were enough to make Stefan¡¯s face turn stiff. He hadn¡¯t prepared anything when he came here, and Sam also didn¡¯t remind him. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In a hurry, Stefan took out his phone and transferred money to Bella¡¯s Swiss bank account. He leaned closer and whispered, "Sister, I sent money to your bank. You can buy anything you like, especially for the twins."


    "How much?" Bella frowned, looking at him.


    "One million. Is it too little? Should I add another two million? So each of you could have one million?" he asked worriedly when he saw her slightly gasp.


    Bella was lost for words. Did Stefan not understand that a million could buy an apartment in this city? Or did he just have too much money?


    She immediately shook her head, stopping him from sending more money.


    "Seriously, Sam, Stefan, you guys don¡¯t have to bring anything. You already came to visit me. I already feel grateful."


    "It¡¯s fine, Boss. It¡¯s not every day we give you something," Sam said.


    Stefan also commented, "Yeah, sis... No need to feel bad. We are happy to give something to you and the twins."


    Bella and Tristan were speechless. They didn¡¯t need anything now but couldn¡¯t refuse their kind gesture.


    While the others spoke, Dax looked impatient, waiting for Stefan to follow him. He walked closer to Stefan and held his hand.


    "Uncle Stefan, let me bring you to meet my sister and brother," Dax said while leading Stefan to the babies¡¯ cribs.


    "Alright, little man, let¡¯s go..." Stefan followed Dax, and the others followed. "Do they have names now?" he asked.


    "Yeah, my sister is named Aurora Sinclair, and my younger brother is named Oliver Sinclair," Dax explained.


    "Wow, that¡¯s a cool name," Stefan said while glancing at Bella; he raised a thumb to praise her.


    ***


    After Stefan and Sam finished seeing the twins, who were still fast asleep and guarded by Noora and Natalie, they returned to the living room outside the babies¡¯ room.


    Not long after, Dax and Stefan disappeared to another room. Later, Leo and Dana appeared with Sean and Harper.


    Once again, Bella was at a loss for words to receive many gifts from all of them. She couldn¡¯t refuse and could only thank them all.

 Chapter 544: Reunion With Friends (2)

    Bella was so happy to reunite with all of her friends.


    As the night came, the reunion continued. Tristan prepared a small dinner party for all of them in another room so the babies and Dax could rest.


    And after dinner, Leo dropped a shocking piece of news when everyone gathered in the living room.


    "Guys, I just want to inform you that Dana and I are proudly expecting a child..." Leo said while holding Dana¡¯s hand tightly.


    Instantly, the room became lively again, with everyone looking happy for Dana and Leo.


    Bella quickly led Dana and Harper into a corner, leaving the men to chat about things they weren¡¯t interested in. She sat between the two girls.


    Once they settled onto the three-seater sofa, she was eager to hear about Dana¡¯s pregnancy and Harper¡¯s marriage plans.


    She was thrilled to learn that Harper and Sean would be getting married in early fall this year. However, she was now curious about Dana¡¯s pregnancy. She rarely spoke to Dana over the phone; they had only met at her wedding party a few months ago.


    "Dana, I¡¯m so happy for you. Once again, congratulations¡­" Bella gently grabbed Dana¡¯s hand. "Do you know the gender yet?"


    "Not yet, Boss Bella. We only found out about my pregnancy last week, and it was too early to know the gender..." Dana giggled happily as she shared the good news with them.


    "Congratulations, dear. But please, Dana, can you stop calling me that? I¡¯m no longer your boss, alright." Bella shook her head helplessly.


    Bella didn¡¯t understand what had happened to them; Sam, Dana, and everyone who knew her at Quantum Capital insisted on calling her Boss Bella, even though she hadn¡¯t worked for the company since December last year.


    Dana opened her mouth, ready to respond to Bella, but she paused when Harper¡¯s voice came out ahead of hers.


    "Oh, wow! Come on, girl, accept it!" Harper chuckled, glancing at Bella¡¯s annoyed expression.


    She continued, "You¡¯ll always be their boss, Bella. And how can you just leave the company like that? You still have a responsibility at the head office as Jack¡¯s advisor, right?" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella let out a deep sigh and shot a sharp look at Harper. "Geez! I¡¯m not sure. Because you and Jack always give me a headache, Harper Reed. But you¡¯re right. I won¡¯t completely abandon the company we built together.


    That is so not me," she smiles.


    Harper laughed upon hearing Bella¡¯s words.


    "Boss Bella, what Boss Harper said is true," Dana laughed.


    "OK, OK, enough about me," Bella sighed deeply as she turned her attention back to Dana. "Tell us about your pregnancy, Dana. How¡¯s Leo? Did he take good care of you?"


    Before Dana could reply, Harper, once more, interjected, causing Bella and Dana to turn their gaze toward her.


    "Leo Smith ticked me off. I never knew he had a side like that. I¡¯ve always known him as cold and mischievous all this time..."


    Dana¡¯s face stiffened at that, but she remained silent. She knew her husband constantly interfered with her work as Harper¡¯s secretary.


    Now, hearing Harper vent her frustration to her husband, Dana couldn¡¯t help but feel amused, knowing that her husband had been overprotective lately to the point of annoying their boss.


    "What did he do? Why are you mad at him?" Bella asked, curious as she looked at Harper.


    Harper explained to Bella how Leo always interferes with her secretary, Dana. Leo forbade her from giving Dana too much work and going on business trips unless he came along. Harper had many more complaints, which caused Bella to hold back her laughter.


    Instead of feeling sorry for Harper, Bella felt amused.


    "I think I need to return Dana to be Leo¡¯s secretary. Rather than giving me a headache," Harper said while smiling at Dana. "Ugh, well, Dana, don¡¯t feel offended by what I say now. You can¡¯t blame me, dear. Your husband is too overprotective of you."


    Dana grinned and nodded in agreement to Harper.


    "It¡¯s fine, Boss Harper. I won¡¯t be offended. Just for your information, I always remind him not to bring personal matters to work. But he often forgets," Dana said, taking a deep breath as she glanced at Leo briefly.


    This is what Dana¡¯s afraid of. Their friendship will affect their relationship at work.


    "Just bear with it for a while, Harper." Bella tried to cheer her up and told her not to stress. "Leo did that because Dana was pregnant..."


    "I know, girl... I know..." Harper¡¯s annoyance gradually faded. She smiled at Dana before continuing, "Well, after today, knowing Dana was pregnant, I could understand him."


    "Thanks, Boss Harper..." Dana faintly smiled.


    "Don¡¯t mention it," Harper said. "Oh right, Dana, please tell me when you want to take your long leave. So, I could ask my secretary in New York to move here."


    "Yes, I will," Dana promised, even though she did not know when, as this was her first pregnancy, she was clueless about everything.


    While Dana and Harper were chatting, something was bothering Bella. She asked, "Dana, will Leo allow you to work after giving birth?"


    Harper suddenly gasped.


    "Oh my gosh! Why didn¡¯t I think about it?" Harper, also curious, looked at Dana, "Did he?"


    Dana shook her head helplessly.


    "To be honest, we haven¡¯t talked about it. I want to continue working, but we¡¯ll see how things go," Dana answered. She wants to work, but she doesn¡¯t have the luxury of having a family or someone who can help her take care of her child, and she can¡¯t imagine entrusting her child to daycare.


    "You should talk to Leo, Dana. I need to know about it faster to find someone who can continue your work," Harper¡¯s tone became intense because this was not a small matter.


    Bella became more concerned about the company, not only because of Dana. But also because Harper would be married and have a child. She narrowed her eyes, looking at Harper.


    ¡¯Was she aware of it? Why does she look so relaxed?¡¯ Bella wondered.


    "Harper, what about you? Did Sean allow you to work?" Bella finally voiced her concern.

 Chapter 545: If You Have Confidence, Go Ahead!

    "Harper, what about you? Did Sean allow you to work?" Bella finally voiced her concern.


    Harper¡¯s face slowly tensed. She shook her head, unable to answer Bella¡¯s question.


    She had never pictured becoming a housewife because she loved working and building her current company. She always pictures herself as a career woman and nothing else.


    However, Bella¡¯s question became a wake-up call. She should have asked Sean about this before they got married.


    "We never discussed it, but I know I will have to discuss it with Sean sooner or later. Thank you, Bella. Thank you for the reminder," Harper said, flashing a faint smile.


    "Anytime, Girl," Bella patted her hand gently before continuing, "By the way, how¡¯s your wedding preparation?"


    "Well, I¡¯m not stressed about it. You know me, right? I¡¯m the kind of person who trusts a professional to arrange what they are well known for," Harper shrugged. "And I¡¯m fortunate to have Sean¡¯s mother and aunt helping me with the arrangements. So, Sean and I will just follow their lead."


    "Geez, I envy you, Harper. You are indeed so lucky to have such a wonderful in-law..." Bella said softly before gazing at Tristan in the distance.


    Knowing what Bella feels now, Harper felt bad for reminding her best friend of her own difficult mother-in-law.


    "Thank you, dear," Harper said while leaning closer to her. She didn¡¯t want Dana to hear their conversation, so she whispered, "Talk about in-laws, how is your mother-in-law?"


    Harper was curious about Tristan¡¯s mother, as she had never heard Bella talk about her lately. Earlier at dinner, she also didn¡¯t see Jessica Sinclair.


    Hearing Harper¡¯s question slowly made Bella¡¯s heartache. The last time she heard Tristan talk about his mother was at his father¡¯s funeral. She never knew what was on her husband¡¯s mind about his mother, but she could guess he was still worried about her.


    "She didn¡¯t stay with us after my father-in-law died. She moved to our Garden Villa in the countryside. I haven¡¯t had the chance to meet her again, as Tristan didn¡¯t allow me or our child to visit her," Bella answered honestly.


    However, she wasn¡¯t entirely honest with Harper about why Jessica no longer stays with them.


    What Jessica did to Tristan¡¯s grandmother would remain a family secret, as is her karma for doing so.


    "I¡¯m glad you finally have peace of mind, Bella. You don¡¯t have to deal with her." Harper sincerely said. She knew how cruel Jessica Sinclair had been toward Bella.


    "Thank you, Harper." A half smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips. She diverted their conversation to something else, not wanting to discuss her mother-in-law further, afraid it would put her in a bad mood. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Bella and the others continued chatting, Sean¡¯s voice suddenly came from behind, surprising them all.


    They turned around and saw Sean standing near their sofa with an apologetic expression for interrupting their conversation.


    "Bella, can we talk?" Sean asked, then glanced at Harper. "Alone...?" he added as if seeking her permission.


    Bella didn¡¯t immediately answer Sean; instead, she looked at Harper, worried her best friend might be jealous. She was taken aback when she saw Harper smile and gently push her to follow Sean.


    She smiled back at Harper, then stood and followed Sean out of the room.


    ***


    "Let¡¯s sit over there¡­" Sean suggested, pointing at a seating area at the end of the corridor.


    "Sure," Bella followed him. The seating area wasn¡¯t far from her main maternity room, so she didn¡¯t have to worry if her twins needed her.


    However, after sitting for a few moments, Sean still hadn¡¯t said anything. He seemed deep in thought.


    "Why are you so quiet, Sean?" Bella stifled a laugh when she saw him looking perplexed. "Relax, bro. I¡¯m not going to bite." She tried to ease his tension.


    Sean cleared his throat before speaking, "Bella, Harper already invited you to our wedding, right?"


    "Hmm, she did," Bella said, excited again to discuss her best friend¡¯s wedding. "I already promised Harper I will come unless... you don¡¯t want me to¡ª"


    Instantly, Sean¡¯s expression turned worried as he realized what Bella was about to say. He shook his head hurriedly, saying, "Don¡¯t think that, Bells. Of course, I want you to come to my wedding with Harper."


    A relieved laugh slowly escaped Bella¡¯s lips upon hearing his words. "Pft! I thought you didn¡¯t want me to be there on your special day, Sean."


    "Please don¡¯t assume that. I want you to come. I¡¯m asking you now because I felt I had to invite you personally," Sean hurriedly explained. He knew Bella was close to Harper, but they were also best friends. It didn¡¯t feel right if he hadn¡¯t approached her himself.


    "Thank you, Sean. I understand. I will definitely attend your wedding, even if you don¡¯t want me to, because Harper is like a sister to me. And since you¡¯ll be marrying her, I hope you take care of her just as you do yourself and your family," Bella said.


    "I will never disappoint you, Bells," Sean promised. "I will love her with all my heart."


    "Thank you." Bella could see it in his eyes now, a light that hadn¡¯t been there when they talked at his house last year. Whenever he spoke about Harper, that light beamed.


    Bella felt so happy for Harper because Sean seemed to love and adore Harper very much now.


    "Bells, can you bring Dax and the twins too?"


    Sean¡¯s request surprised Bella. She sighed silently before answering, "I could promise to bring Dax. But not the twins. They¡¯re too young to attend a large gathering like that."


    "Alright, it¡¯s fine, I understand. But Dax is big enough to come, right? I need him to come because I want him to be my ring bearer."


    Bella frowned. She can¡¯t answer him immediately because she knows Dax is not the kind of kid who likes ceremonious occasions. He might refuse. But she also felt bad if she was the one who declined Sean, knowing Sean had a close relationship with Dax.


    "Ring Bearer? Do you think Dax would agree? You know how he is, right?" Bella asked.


    "No worries. I¡¯ll meet him later and ask him myself. I¡¯m confident he will agree¡­"


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh, seeing Sean¡¯s confidence about getting Dax¡¯s approval.


    "Alright, if you¡¯re confident, go ahead. You can talk to Dax. I¡¯ll be so happy if he agrees."


    "Thanks, Bells¡ª"

 Chapter 546: Another Gift?

    A week later.


    It has been three days since Bella returned home. Everyone has resumed their regular activities except for Tristan, who leads and manages his companies from home, usually in his home office.


    Bella is getting used to her new busy life as a mother of twins. However, handling and caring for two babies at once is not easy.


    Fortunately, unlike when she cared for Dax, this time, Bella has the help of not only Noora but also her mother and husband.


    Bella now has more time to rest and is starting to focus on losing weight. Over the past two days, she has been going to the house gym twice daily for cardio, calisthenics, or weightlifting to lose weight more quickly.


    Tristan is concerned about Bella¡¯s intense workout routine. He doesn¡¯t want her to become exhausted while caring for their twins and Dax.


    Since yesterday, Tristan has been feeling uneasy. He is worried and has tried to persuade her to go easy with her exercise schedule. However, she softly and cutely declines his request, saying she only does all her exercises with low intensity, not hard ones.


    Tristan silently sighed deeply as he watched her change into black silk pajamas.


    Sensing Tristan¡¯s presence in the walk-in closet, Bella turns to see him with a light smile. She saw him lean against the door frame with his arms crossed over his chest, concern clearly showing in his profound gaze.


    "Hubby, why are you looking at me like that?" Bella asked playfully, trying to cheer him up. She could guess what he was thinking now.


    Tristan didn¡¯t rush to answer her; he walked to lessen their distance.


    "Bella, you know you don¡¯t need to hurry to reach your ideal weight, right?" Tristan didn¡¯t let her reply as he continued, "I don¡¯t mind your current weight...you still have great curves. You will always look sexy and hot no matter your size."


    He expressed his sincere thoughts while placing his hand on her waist and pulling her closer to him.


    Tristan never had enough of his craving for his wife¡¯s softness and warmth whenever she was in his arms.


    He wanted to touch and caress her, but he held back. He couldn¡¯t do that now; she had only given birth a few days ago. Pressing his desire to touch her, he swallowed silently while feeding his eyes with her beauty.


    Bella looked up to meet his worried gaze.


    "I know... Tristan. I know that. But I don¡¯t want to appear at Harper¡¯s wedding with this look. I¡¯m double, no, but triple from my weight before my pregnancy."


    She sighed while leaning her head on his chest, her hands wrapped around his waist.


    After a few more seconds passed, she whispered, "I don¡¯t want people to talk badly about me because I will walk beside you, hubby."


    Tristan held her tightly, gently resting his chin on her head. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They hugged briefly before he responded to her worry.


    "My dear, ignore other people¡¯s opinions. They are unimportant in our lives, so let¡¯s ignore them, okay?"


    Bella opened her mouth to say something, but in the end, she pressed her lips and set aside her need to express her worry. She understood that Tristan was right.


    She didn¡¯t feel comfortable meeting influential people in this country, and she knew the media would be there to cover the wedding. Her confidence wavered at the thought of appearing beside her handsome and powerful husband.


    ¡¯Goodness, Bella! Can you stop thinking about all these useless things?¡¯ She scolded herself inwardly while shaking her head lightly, trying to dismiss all her worries from her mind.


    "Alright, dear," Tristan said, loosening his arms and placing his hand on her chin to make her look at him.


    "There¡¯s something I wanted to give you," Tristan continued, his eyes beaming as he looked into her curious gaze.


    "Another gift?" Bella asked, no longer surprised to hear that.


    Since giving birth to twins, she received gifts daily from friends, family, and even Tristan¡¯s friends and colleagues. The gifts were too much; they needed to be put in one room as she didn¡¯t have time to check them.


    Tristan didn¡¯t reply. Instead, he took her hand and led her to the bedroom.


    He didn¡¯t join her on the couch immediately; instead, he asked her to wait a while before disappearing into his office.


    Bella, noticing Tristan¡¯s mysterious expression, became tense as she waited for him.


    She tried to distract herself by grabbing her cell phone and checking the twins¡¯ condition in their room. The CCTV footage showed them sleeping soundly.


    Bella felt relieved to see Noora still waiting in the next room with her mother.


    The thought of her twins sleeping in a separate room made Bella unhappy. However, she was willing to make peace with her feelings because it was for their own good and the well-being of the children. Since last night, the twins had been sleeping in their room, next to the master bedroom and across from Dax¡¯s room.


    Engrossed in watching her baby sleep, Bella didn¡¯t realize that Tristan had returned.


    "What are you watching?" he asked.


    Bella looked up to see Tristan sitting beside her.


    "What else?" Bella smiled, showing Tristan her cell phone screen before putting it on the table.


    "They will be fine," Tristan said softly as if he understood his wife¡¯s anxiety. She wanted the twins¡¯ cribs moved to their room.


    "I know. I¡¯m just too bored to wait alone here, so I opened the CCTV to check on them," Bella explained. Her eyes narrowed at him before asking, "So, what do you want to give me?"


    Tristan took a small black velvet box from his pocket and showed it to Bella.


    "This one¡ª" His smile grew wider when he saw her surprise.


    "A ring?" Bella frowned, looking at the box in Tristan¡¯s hand.


    "Hmm," Tristan hummed as he opened the box to let her see the ring inside.


    "This..." Bella¡¯s eyes beamed as she turned her gaze back to Tristan.


    "This is the wedding ring you left me six years ago," Tristan paused momentarily when he saw her gasp. "I¡¯m so sorry if I returned it so late."

 Chapter 547: I’m Sorry To Return It So Late

    So many things happened in one year of Bella and Tristan¡¯s togetherness, from joy to sorrow; it was all mixed into one.


    They have achieved many happy moments together. But there is also a lot that must be sacrificed and failed to be achieved.


    Tristan¡¯s honeymoon plans for Switzerland were ultimately postponed due to family matters.


    Also, Tristan¡¯s meticulously planned family vacation failed because security issues could not be guaranteed. He was reluctant to take the risk because he knew he could not handle losing Bella again.


    And in the last few months, he had felt sorry for Bella. She never questioned or complained to him about their failed honeymoon or family holiday plans.


    The one that made him feel even worse was when he finally got the wedding ring back from repairs and wanted to return it to Bella on her birthday. Once again, circumstances held him back.


    ...


    Looking at the pretty and memorable ring in his hand was enough to make Bella¡¯s heart swell with happiness.


    "Tristan, this..." Bella¡¯s voice shook. She was so touched looking at the ring that she had entirely forgotten about it.


    Before Bella could finish her sentence, Tristan said, "After I knew you had returned to this country, I asked a famous European craftsman to alter a few things and change the diamond to the best one. Although similar to the ring you wore when we got married, this ring is different..."


    Tristan continued to explain why it took some time to repair the ring. They were looking for a fitting diamond, and when he finally got the ring back, the timing was not right to return it to her.


    "Thank you, Tristan," she stared at him with teary eyes.


    "Don¡¯t cry, huh?" Tristan smiled while wiping the tears from her cheeks. "If you cry like now, I will assume you don¡¯t like the ring."


    Bella shook her head hurriedly, "I like... I do like the ring." She smiled and tried to hold back her tears but still failed. "Hubby, I cry because I¡¯m so happy. Not because I didn¡¯t like the ring."


    "Alright, this is yours, dear. I¡¯m only returning it to you..." Tristan gently took her hand and tried to put the ring on her finger.


    Bella felt her eyes moist with happiness when she looked at the ring on her finger, but later, she frowned when the ring didn¡¯t fit.


    Tristan awkwardly smiled when he saw her upset expression.


    "I¡¯m sorry, dear. It seems you need to... well, you know..." He couldn¡¯t finish his words, worrying she would be even more gloomy if he mentioned she needed a diet.


    "I know! This is why I need to lose weight," she softly muttered, annoyed that her finger was still swollen and the ring couldn¡¯t go through.


    Tristan hurriedly removed the ring from her finger and returned it to the box, not wanting to annoy her.


    A deep, long sigh escaped Bella¡¯s lips as she looked at the ring box in Tristan¡¯s hand.


    "Hubby, don¡¯t blame me if I work out; besides my health and wanting to go to Harper¡¯s wedding, I also need to lose weight to wear my wedding ring..."


    Tristan couldn¡¯t help but scold himself for returning the ring at the wrong time. His intention to cheer her up suddenly shattered. Instead of being happy, his wife looked sad because she had to wait another month to achieve her goal of wearing the ring.


    "I won¡¯t..." He said.


    Bella threw herself into his arms.


    "Thank you, hubby. The ring looks stunning. I like it. I promise to wear it daily when it fits on my finger again."


    Tristan smiled, hearing her words.


    "Alright, no need to rush. I only saw you happy to accept the ring; that¡¯s enough for me."


    "Hmm, I¡¯m so happy..." Bella answered, looking up to meet his gaze. "Oh, right, I forgot to ask. You promised me we would go on our romantic honeymoon trip. Did you forget about it, Mr. Sinclair?" she asked, narrowing her eyes at him.


    "Of course, I haven¡¯t forgotten about it. But I had to postpone the trip because many things happened in our family and at work in the past months," Tristan explained, silently sighing.


    He added, "When the twins are old enough, and there are no more problems in the family, we can escape for a few days for our honeymoon¡ªno need to go far away. I will arrange a romantic place in this country. How about that?"


    "I agree. But are you sure we can go without our children? I feel terrible about leaving them at home," Bella asked worriedly. It feels strange to go on vacation without Dax and the twins.


    "It¡¯s fine if it¡¯s only two nights. We also need time alone. I only want to be with my pretty, sexy-hot wife! On the island¡ª" His face slowly turned warm, imagining them making love on the beach on the empty island.


    Bella said nothing, but her blushing face couldn¡¯t hide what she was thinking now.


    Tristan leaned closer to Bella and captured her moist lips. It surprised her, but she didn¡¯t refuse his deep kiss. She kissed him back with equal passion.


    "Tristan..." She moaned when his hand slipped under her silk pajamas while his tongue was still dancing inside her mouth. However, when his hand was about to touch her swollen breast, she pushed him away. "Stop... please..."


    "Huh!? What happened?" Tristan asked worriedly, looking at her blushing cheeks, but her gaze showed how distressed she was.


    "My breasts... They¡¯re swollen and hurt..." Bella swallowed when she realized she wanted to feel his touch but needed to pump her breast milk.


    Hurriedly, Bella stood up from the sofa, which made Tristan panic. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He suddenly became frustrated. ¡¯Was this the effect of new mom hormones?¡¯


    "Bella, I¡¯m so sorry to hurt you, dear," Tristan looked into her eyes; he felt terrible knowing he had hurt her. "Kissing you made me lose control. I won¡¯t do it again, I promise." He followed her and gently held her hand.


    "Your touch did not hurt me, but I must go to the twins¡¯ room. I need to breastfeed them; my breasts feel tight and full..." Bella explained, feeling sorry that her reaction had caused him to worry.


    Tristan felt relieved to hear that. "Let me walk you there."


    "Tristan, there¡¯s no need. My mother and Noora are still there. Go, finish your work. I¡¯ll come find you after dealing with these tight breasts..." Bella shyly said.


    "Alright¡ª"

 Chapter 548: A Shocking Gossip

    Several weeks later.


    In early June, the weather was getting warmer. Bella and her family visited their house at Little Heaven for the summer holiday. They planned to stay there for a few days to enjoy the lake.


    Bella was so happy because her Grandfather was still at his house, next to theirs. She could spend time with her Grandpa before he returned to the East to help prepare her brother, Henry, to take over the family company.


    The temperature was perfect for them to enjoy weekend activities outside the house. It¡¯s warm but not too warm, with plenty of cool breeze.


    Tristan, Dax, and another man sat by the lake that afternoon, enjoying fishing.


    Bella relaxed on the patio by the lake with the twins, her mother, and Noora.


    Under her breastfeeding cover, Bella was nursing Oliver as they chatted about what happened in East Town.


    Bella still can¡¯t believe the latest news she heard about her Aunt Emma. Her Aunt is in a relationship with Archy Taylor, the current COO of The Donovan Group.


    "Aunty Noora, are you sure about the news you heard?" Bella was still unable to believe it. How could Aunty Emma date Uncle Archy? She never imagined these two having a romantic relationship. Their age difference also significantly differed from a typical relationship: they are nine years apart, with Aunty Emma older than Archy.


    Bella starts to guess when her Aunty Emma and Uncle Archy are attracted to each other.


    ¡¯Did they become close because Aunt Emma is the current CEO and Archy is the COO of the Donovan group? That¡¯s why they started to attract each other: They work closely together...¡¯ She wonders.


    "Young Madam, of course, I am sure about the news..." Noora giggled before she put her teacup on the table. Her eyes beamed, looking at Bella. "The worker in your Aunty¡¯s house told me. A few times, they saw Archy come to your Aunt¡¯s house. They even told me that the Old Master was already aware of their relationship."


    "Wow, even Grandpa already knew about it? How could I be the one who is clueless about this huge news?" Bella shook her head slightly, feeling forgotten.


    Since Isaac Donovan returned to the East to help his daughter, Emma, he has taken his role back as Donovan Group Chairman. Since then, Bella has not contacted Emma or Archy again to discuss the company matter because she trusted her Grandfather to help the Donovan Group return to its glory.


    "Yes, Bella. What Noora said was true. When Emma came to see the twins, she told me everything about her relationship with Archy," Natalie said happily. Looking at her daughter, who gasped in surprise, she could only smile.


    Natalie continued, "Well, dear, you should prepare your time to fly to the East City because we will have a wedding party soon..."


    "WHAT¡ª" Bella shouted in shock, but quickly pressed her lips tightly, as she didn¡¯t want to wake her son. She felt Oliver move in her arms; she promptly peeked at him under her breastfeeding cover.


    When she saw Oliver still sound asleep, she turned her gaze back to her mother.


    "Wow, so they¡¯re both serious?" Bella asked.


    "Of course, they are both serious. Your Aunty is no longer young, Bella. So they don¡¯t want to waste more time. They decide to tie the knot... And, while your Grandfather is still healthy," Natalie explained.


    Bella nodded in agreement with her mother. Marrying Archy Taylor was suitable for her Aunt Emma, who had been living alone and raising her son, Liam, for a long time. Archy Taylor was the right person for her Aunt Emma.


    Moreover, Archy Taylor was the grandson of her Grandfather¡¯s best friend, and her Grandfather already considered Archy his family member.


    "Mom, do you know when Aunty Emma and Uncle Archy will get married?" Bella asked.


    Bella needed to tell Tristan and arrange their trip to East City. They couldn¡¯t just fly there casually because she needed to be well-prepared since she¡¯d be flying with her newborn.


    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, maybe next month. All I know is this summer. Your Aunty Emma is waiting for your cousin Liam to finish his studies," Natalie explained.


    "I see..." Bella responded. She remembered Liam would leave the country because he got an offer from a well-known company abroad and would soon leave to start his career there.


    The three of them continued chatting after Bella exchanged babies with her mother. She is breastfeeding her daughter, Aurora, and her mother now holds Oliver.


    After some time, Noora dropped another gossip.


    "There¡¯s something you should know too, young madam," Noora started a new gossip, her eyes beaming at Bella.


    It caught Bella¡¯s attention when she saw a mysterious smile emerge from Noora¡¯s lips.


    "Another gossip that I don¡¯t know?" She asked while narrowing her eyes at Noora.


    "Yes! You will be surprised when you hear about it," Noora grinned, making Bella even more curious.


    "Ugh! Hurry, hurry, Aunty, spill the tea for me. Don¡¯t make me die because I¡¯m too curious, huh!" Bella said impatiently.


    However, Noora didn¡¯t answer her right away. She turned to look at Natalie as if asking for her opinion.


    When Noora saw Natalie nodding with a smile and allowed her to speak, she turned her gaze to Bella again. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, don¡¯t be surprised, okay..." Noora smiled. "Your brother now has a girlfriend. And they¡¯re serious about their relationship¡¯s future."


    Bella was rendered speechless. She thought the gossip would blow her mind away, just like what she heard about her Aunty Emma, but this time, about Henry.


    And it was something she already guessed because she knew Henry could never be single for long and must be close to a female now. As a matter of fact, the last time they met, she had already predicted it.


    Her older brother has entirely changed into a gentleman now. Not only that, but he also maintains his health with his propositional weight.


    "Who is the lucky lady who could win my brother¡¯s heart now?" Bella asked curiously.


    "I don¡¯t know," Noora answered while looking at Natalie. "Madam, do you know who Master Henry¡¯s girlfriend is?"


    Natalie stifled a smile as she looked at Noora, "Hmm, I know¡ª"

 Chapter 549: Fearing Rejection

    Natalie stifled a smile as she looked at Noora, "Hmm, I know¡ª"


    "Who is she?" Bella asked, looking impatiently at her mother.


    "You don¡¯t know about her. She is your brother¡¯s high school friend." Natalie explained.


    "I see..." Now, Bella feels like she wants to meet her future sister-in-law. "I hope he brings her to Aunty¡¯s wedding."


    "I guess... he will. Because his girlfriend works in the Donovan Group, she is your aunt¡¯s secretary."


    "Wow! Seriously?" Bella was surprised to hear that.


    The light in Natalie¡¯s eyes beamed as she spoke, "Yes. They met again when your brother started working there, and they became close because they met almost every day. I like her; she could make your brother even calmer and gentler now."


    When discussing Henry¡¯s recent achievements, Natalie can¡¯t hide how happy she is. She could now die peacefully, knowing her son would have a bright future.


    What makes Natalie even happier is that her two-child relationships improved significantly. Bella can accept her big brother without resentment of what happened in the past. She indeed forgives him and is sincerely willing to guide him to be a better person. Henry also wants to improve his life, taking it in the right direction; he hears everything his sister and Grandpa tell him to do.


    "I¡¯m excited to go back to the East. A lot is happening there," Bella said, expressing her desire to return to her hometown. It had been half a year since she last visited, and that was for her father¡¯s funeral.


    "I feel the same way. I really miss everyone in the East," Noora added, her cheeks blushing with happiness. Bella noticed this, and it reminded her of something important. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Narrowing her eyes at Noora, Bella thought about something that still bothered her: Noora¡¯s future.


    "Aunty, how about you?" Bella asked.


    "How about me?" Noora¡¯s eyebrow raised slightly as she looked at Bella. "What do you mean, young ma¡¯am? I¡¯m alright..." she replied, looking confused.


    Bella sighed deeply as she looked at the clueless Noora. "This is about your progress with Nick. Are you guys getting more¡ª"


    "Oh, young madam, please stop..." Noora interrupted, her face turning redder. Her eyes involuntarily glanced at Nick, sitting beside Isaac Donovan silently. Their gaze was focused on the water around their fishing line¡ªthe same thing with Tristan and Dax.


    "What is up with Noora and Nick?" Natalie chimed in, confused after hearing Bella and Noora¡¯s conversation.


    "Mom, I¡¯m trying to set up Aunty Noora with Nick. If Aunty Noora could date and marry him, I would be relieved because my aunty will not die alone and a virgin," Bella giggled but immediately stopped when she saw Noora glaring at her.


    "Pfft!" Natalie held back laughter when she heard Bella¡¯s words. But a second later, she became serious again when she saw that Noora¡¯s face had changed, like a boiled crab.


    "Madam, don¡¯t try to join Bella in matchmaking me with Nick. He and I are nothing more than colleagues. We don¡¯t have special feelings for each other. He is more like my older brother," Noora said seriously, hoping Natalie wouldn¡¯t join Bella in trying to match her with Nick.


    Bella smiled at Noora before looking at her mother.


    "Mom, I¡¯m just trying to help Aunty. It would be sad if she never felt the sweetness of marriage, right, Mom?" Bella softly expressed concern, convincing her mother to side with her. She is aware that Noora will listen to what her mother says.


    Natalie didn¡¯t immediately respond to Bella but instead tried to understand her daughter¡¯s words. All the sentences she said were correct: Noora must have a partner. She is no longer young and needs a life partner to care for her when she is old.


    "Noora, what Bella said is true. You need someone to take care of you in the future, to spend your old days with..." Natalie smiled when she saw Noora¡¯s expression turn stiff; she visibly disagreed about spending her old age with someone special.


    "Ma¡¯am, I don¡¯t need anything except you and your family. I will stay here until..." Noora said to Natalie before she turned her gaze at Bella with teary eyes. "Until you no longer want me, young madam... I will stay with you!"


    "Oh gosh! Aunty, I won¡¯t leave you alone. You will stay with me till death comes to you; that¡¯s my promise. But I want you to be happy too. I mean, I hope you also could have someone who cares for you and loves you..."


    "Oh, Bella, I don¡¯t need that. I just need to be around you and your children. You and the children are my source of happiness; I don¡¯t need anything else," Noora said, her eyes damp from the tears now wetting her cheeks.


    Bella was speechless when she saw Aunty Noora crying. Frustrated with her stubbornness, she took a deep breath and fell silent, allowing her mother to comfort Noora. Then, she glanced at Nick and her grandfather.


    After a while, a faint smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips as an idea struck her. She looked at Noora, who had stopped crying and was now holding Oliver as her mother had asked.


    Bella chuckled to herself, realizing that Noora¡¯s source of happiness was her children.


    "Aunty, I understand your feelings, but I¡¯m not only thinking about you but also Nick," Bella said, pausing when she noticed Noora¡¯s puzzled expression.


    "My grandfather is not getting any younger, and if something happens to him, Nick might leave the Donovan family forever. We may never see him again," Bella continued.


    Noora gasped, and Bella inwardly laughed at the worry in her eyes.


    "I don¡¯t want that to happen, Aunty. I want Nick to stay with our family. I want him to live with us. And if you have a relationship with him, he will live with my family, right?"


    Noora nodded in response.


    "That was my plan all along ¡ª to bring you both together and have you stay with us forever. I know you have feelings for him, but you¡¯re afraid to tell him," Bella said, deliberately sounding concerned and sad.


    Noora lowers her gaze, avoiding Bella¡¯s words. It was true, but she was too scared to confess her feelings to Nick, fearing rejection.

 Chapter 550: Beating Her Fears *

    After dinner, Tristan and Bella spent their night in their room, cuddling on the bed while she told him about her Aunty Emma and Archy¡¯s marriage plan.


    "Hubby, can you arrange our trip to the wedding?" Bella asked.


    "Of course, dear. I will arrange everything; just inform me of the exact dates. How about the place? Do you want to stay at a hotel or a house?" Tristan asked.


    Bella thought for a while. She wanted to live in her parent¡¯s house, but there was not enough room for her and her three children. She also believed Tristan would bring his bodyguard and assistant. However, she also felt uncomfortable staying at a hotel.


    "If you want to stay at a house, I will ask my people to speed up the renovation of our new house not far from your parents¡¯ house," Tristan offered. Bella was surprised to know that.


    She immediately pulled her body away from him to see him more clearly. She narrowed her eyes before asking, "For real, you bought a house there?"


    "Hmm, I bought it last year. But they only started renovating this spring. It should be finished in a few months, but I could ask them to do it faster so we can use the house when your aunty is married."


    "Alright, if your people can expedite the renovation to finish before Aunty¡¯s wedding, I prefer to stay in our own house," Bella said.


    "Okay, consider it done, Ma¡¯am..." Tristan smiled when he saw no longer a worried expression on her face. He pulled her closer to him again.


    The room was dim; no one spoke. Bella tried to sleep in his arms while enjoying the warmth of his body; she felt comfortable and tried to fit herself in his tight embrace.


    However, when she started to feel drowsy, she heard him speak, "Wife, it¡¯s been eight weeks since you gave birth, right?"


    "Hmm," Bella mumbled softly without opening her eyes.


    "Aunty Kelsey said we can make love after six weeks...and I thought, you will be alright if we do that," His voice sounded relaxed, but Bella¡¯s eyes suddenly opened wide. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her sleepiness disappeared when she realized what he was trying to say.


    Bella knew Tristan¡¯s needs as a man. Sometimes, she felt sorry to see him holding back his desires. She could only help him release his need using her hand.


    But it wasn¡¯t enough for someone like Tristan. A few times, he tried to touch her, but she refused him because she still felt worried about doing that. But now. He is correct; it¡¯s already been eight weeks since she gave birth. She couldn¡¯t possibly refuse him again, right?


    Her hand on his sturdy chest clenched, waiting for him to finish his sentence.


    "Can we do that now? I want you now..." Tristan didn¡¯t finish his sentence as Bella moved slightly to look him in the eyes. He smiled before continuing, "If you¡¯re still worried, it¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll wait."


    Bella could see him smile, but she saw that his smile didn¡¯t even reach his eyes. It makes her feel sorry for him.


    Instead of saying anything, she leaned closer to him and gently pressed her lips to his warm lips, causing him to reach clumsily to return her kiss. She could feel the warmness of his tongue dancing in her mouth.


    The passionate kiss brings her worries about feeling hurt to making love back to zero. She could feel the blood pulsing within her as the heat seeped through her veins.


    A few moans escape from her mouth when she feels his hand starting to slip under her silk gown, slowly rising to her chest, his large hand squeezing her breast gently, but it feels hurt.


    His kiss is even more deeper and wild. She tried to push him away, wanting to breathe; however, in his tight embrace, she could not move. The gradual lack of oxygen made her feel weak.


    Just as Bella thought she was about to die from the lack of oxygen, Tristan finally gave up on his passionate, deep kiss. The warm tip of his tongue gently swept across her lips. His blue-beamed eyes seemed to be brewing the desire to devour her.


    After getting fresh air again, Bella felt like a drowning person as she gasped for air. Her damp eyes looked at him in mixed emotions; she wanted more, but her worry he might hurt her slowly emerged again in her mind, pissing her off.


    They stared at each other momentarily, their heartbeat racing a mile per second, trying to catch air and breathe.


    Bella saw Tristan¡¯s brilliant blue eyes staring at her, with a faint smile slowly appearing on the corner of his lips. It made her flutter. She hadn¡¯t seen this expression from him in the past few days.


    "My wife, do you want me to continue?" He asked hoarsely, conveying his deep desire, a desire he didn¡¯t want her to deny.


    Bella¡¯s lips tremble, wanting to reply to him, but no words could escape from her lips. Frustrated, she could only scold herself in her mind.


    ¡¯Fuck you stupid mind! How dare you stop me from making love with my husband!?¡¯


    Gritting her teeth, she nodded to him, answering his question.


    A few seconds later, her nightgown was torn and ended up on the floor as Tristan, no longer holding himself back, started to touch and caress her.


    The dark and cold room slowly heated up.


    All that could be heard were the sounds of moans and the creaking of the bed that filled the room with lust.


    ...


    Bella didn¡¯t remember how many times they made love, but when she woke up in the early morning to pump her breast milk, she felt her entire body in pain when she tried to move.


    However, no annoyance could be seen in her expression. She feels utterly happy and proud after beating her fear. She finally can make her husband fill her again.


    Bella fed her eyes to see Tristan¡¯s calm, handsome face in his deep sleep.


    After a few more minutes, she leaned closer and kissed his cheek before rushing to the bathroom.

 Chapter 551: Busyness Before Flying To East City

    July 19.


    The day they fly to East Town is approaching fast. Bella and her family will fly today, two days before Emma and Archy¡¯s wedding on July 21.


    They have been busy packing since morning. Noora and her mother are helping her. Meanwhile, Tristan is going to his office and will only meet them at the airport at noon.


    While sitting on the couch and breastfeeding Aurora, Bella saw Noora packing some of her clothes in the walk-in closet.


    "Aunty, how about baby stuff?"


    "Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am. I have been packing the twins¡¯ and Dax¡¯s stuff since last night. They are all set." Noora said with a smile without stopping what she was doing.


    "Thank you, Aunty." Bella silently answers. She should have been packing since last night, but her husband kept her busy all night. Since she allowed him to touch her, he didn¡¯t hold back. He was going all over her and never left her alone last night.


    Today, Bella feels too weak to leave the bed. She can only force herself to look after her baby and have breakfast with Dax, which causes her to delay packing again.


    "Alright, I¡¯m done with your stuff, Ma¡¯am," Noora said as she finished packing two suitcases for Bella. After she put the suitcases in the corner, she turned to see Bella. "I will start packing for Master Tristan."


    "No, Aunty Noora. Let me do it. I will pack Tristan¡¯s stuff myself," Bella immediately rejected. She wouldn¡¯t allow someone to touch her husband¡¯s personal stuff.


    "Are you sure, Ma¡¯am? We only have a few hours before we go to the airport," Noora smiled, noticing how panicky Bella was now.


    "Yes. Yes...Positive. Please. But I need you to take care of Aurora. And ask the maid to help you if you need anything else..." Bella instructed.


    Since they moved back to this place, Bella never allowed any other maid to come to the second floor, where her room and child were. Even though the old staff who had lived here were gone and replaced by new people, Bella was hesitant to ask anyone else to go up here besides Noora and Geoffrey.


    "Okay, Ma¡¯am," Noora smiled. "I will carry baby Aurora and look after Oliver. Don¡¯t worry about them. Your mother will help me prepare. And that should be enough help for me. But, ma¡¯am, you must also hurry because we will go to the airport after lunch."


    Bella nodded and waved her hand, asking Noora to leave her alone.


    ...


    They will stay in the East City for only a week.


    Bella packed only one suitcase for Tristan. She will ask him to shop for more if his clothes are not enough.


    In just a few minutes, she had packed Tristan¡¯s suitcase. She then dragged three suitcases from the walk-in closet and placed them near the bedroom door.


    Just as Bella wanted to rest briefly before lunchtime, she heard her phone ring. Her smile widened when she saw that it was Harper calling.


    "Hello, my Girl. Did you read my text?" Harper¡¯s voice sounded impatient at the end.


    "What text?" Bella asked before she softly chuckled. Nowadays, she doesn¡¯t have time to check her cell phone.


    She could only create a unique ringtone for her family and friends, so even if she set her cell phone on silent mode, it would ring if they called her. But it would not ring for notification of text messages or chats from the application.


    "Yeah. I sent it like two hours ago...?"


    "Sorry, dear. I rarely check my phone now. I barely had time to sleep. I¡¯m too busy with the twins. What is it about anyway? Something important happened there?"


    "Ugh, Bella, I¡¯m sad now...my best friend has forgotten and abandoned me," Harper sounded sad, but Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    "Oh, come on, Gurl! I don¡¯t have time to hold a cell phone. And I told you a few days ago that I would fly to the East City, right? My aunt is getting married this Sunday. So we are busy packing now. You know I¡¯m packing for five people now, right?


    I pack for Tristan, myself, and the children."


    Bella said apologetically, trying to make Harper feel bad for her.


    Harper hurriedly dismissed her idea to tease her further; she laughed slightly before saying, "Oops! Sorry, Girl... Well, this is not a rush or an important matter. But I just want to let you know my wedding date has been set." she excitedly said.


    "Oh my God!! I¡¯m so happy for you," Bella exclaimed. Hurriedly, she walked to the seating area and sat on the sofa. "When is the big day?" she asked excitedly.


    "September 1," Harper told Bella about her wedding plans, including the location and other details.


    After a few minutes, Bella gasped.


    "Wow, why does your wedding sound like a royal wedding? Will it be covered on national TV?"


    "Hahaha, I know, right? Yeah, a national TV station will cover the wedding. His father can¡¯t refuse because he is the current president. So..."


    "Wow, you¡¯re so lucky, Harper Reed. You like those things, right?"


    "Yeah." Harper can¡¯t help but chuckle hearing Bella¡¯s words. She was indeed correct; she likes glamorous things.


    "Well, Harper, I¡¯m so happy for you and Sean. And I¡¯m also happy with myself; I¡¯ve lost so much weight lately," Bella said with relief.


    "Oh, girl! You don¡¯t need to lose weight so drastically. It¡¯s still July. You still have a month and a half to diet," Harper reassured her.


    Bella sighed deeply before responding, "Yeah, I know. But I can¡¯t diet. I need to feed my twins. I could only do exercise..."


    "Ah, you¡¯re right."


    "So, what do you want from me? I mean, as a gift?" Bella asked.


    "No need. You already gave me the biggest present in my life, my husband."


    "Cough!" Bella almost choked on Harper¡¯s answer. "Hell, Harper Reed, he is not my present. He chose you and is willing to open his heart to you; it has nothing to do with me."


    "Hahaha, I know, I know...I¡¯m just trying to humor you, girl."


    "Tsk, tsk, stop talking like that again, Harper. If Sean hears it, he might be sad," Bella faintly said.


    Harper was suddenly stunned when he heard Bella¡¯s words. "Girl, thank you for reminding me. I will stop talking about those again."


    "Good! So, tell me what you want as long as I can afford it. I will buy it for you."


    "Seriously?"


    "Hmm..." Bella became nervous, worried that she would ask for something that would drain her savings.


    After a few moments of silence, Harper finally said, "Bella, you can¡¯t refuse." sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What is it? The present you want?"


    "I don¡¯t need anything expensive. I just need your apartment near the central park!"


    Bella gasped. This girl, how could she ask for that place? That place was her first house in the US, a significant milestone for her because she bought it with her own money. Even though the place only had two bedrooms, the location was worth more than a million dollars.


    "Silence means okay! And no backsies!" Harper giggled. "Thank you, girl; you are the best!"


    Bella was rendered speechless.

 Chapter 552: In East City For The Wedding Ceremony

    Bella and her family arrived in East City at night.


    They headed to their new house after dropping her mother off at her house. Bella was thrilled to learn about their new house, as Tristan had only given her limited information about it. He had only told her the house was close to her childhood home.


    As they left her mother¡¯s front yard, their car didn¡¯t head back to the main gate. Instead, it veered onto a new road, a path Bella had never seen before.


    ¡¯Since when did they build a new road here?¡¯ she wondered while looking outside. The last time she visited this house was when her father died, and she remembered there was no road there.


    Bella was surprised to realize their new house was right next to her parents¡¯ house.


    A smooth street connected the two houses, just as her house at Little Heaven had an alley linked to her Grandpa¡¯s house.


    She knows who owned that massive house before the number one rich man in the city. They wouldn¡¯t sell any property, being already rich enough and not in need of money¡ªunless someone forced them to sell, of course.


    Bella began to wonder, ¡¯How could they sell the house?¡¯ A sudden thought crossed her mind as she finally caught sight of the house in the distance. She glanced at Tristan, who was sitting beside her.


    ¡¯Could it be that Tristan forced them to sell it to him?¡¯ she thought. That seemed the only reasonable explanation for why the homeowner would be willing to sell their property.


    A faint smile slowly formed on her face as she saw a beautiful two-story white house with a stunning garden adorned with yellow garden lights.


    With the limited light, she couldn¡¯t see the entire front yard, but she was sure the garden was similar to their house garden in the capital.


    Carrying her daughter, Bella entered the house with Tristan, holding Oliver in his arms. Leaning closer to him, she asked, "Did you force the owner of this house to sell it to you?"


    Tristan chuckled as he walked toward the stairs, heading to the second floor to put the sleeping twins in their bedroom.


    "I¡¯m not forcing him to sell, but I exchanged it with a property that made him agree immediately," Tristan finally responded to her after putting Oliver in his crib.


    Bella frowned, looking at him, confused by his answer. "What kind of property did you give him? Why did he sell this house to you?" she asked.


    Tristan didn¡¯t answer Bella immediately but made sure the twins slept comfortably before he led her out of the room. Closing the door gently, he smiled at his curious wife.


    "Why are you looking at me like that, dear?" Tristan chucked.


    "You look suspicious. Why bother spending so much money on a house we rarely visit?" She narrowed her eyes on him.


    Tristan touched her cheek and asked, "Can we discuss it later? We must have dinner with your family and Dax downstairs, right?"


    Bella hurriedly nods.


    "You are right, hubby. Hurry...hurry," she said, taking his hand and leading him to the stairs.


    She was grateful that Geoffrey and a few chefs and staff from their house had already flown ahead to prepare for their arrival.


    When they arrived at the first floor, Bella was happy to see her mother and Henry sitting in the living room with Dax. They seemed to be engrossed in conversation and didn¡¯t notice their presence.


    "Mom, sorry to keep you waiting," Bella said, approaching them. She sat beside Dax and then glanced at Henry, briefly smiling at him.


    "We¡¯ve just arrived. Were the twins still asleep?" Natalie asked.


    "Hmm, they are sleeping soundly. Waking them up during our flight here worked," Bella chuckled, recalling how they tried not to let Oliver and Aurora sleep on the plane. She turned to her brother. "I¡¯m glad you joined us for dinner, bro."


    "Thank you, sis. How could I miss this dinner when my Brother-in-law invited me?" Henry expressed his happiness.


    Bella and Tristan briefly returned his smile before discussing Emma and Archy¡¯s wedding plans.


    They will visit Emma¡¯s house tomorrow to join the family for dinner.


    The wedding ceremony will be held in Emma¡¯s backyard the day after tomorrow. The party will only be attended by close family and a few Donovan Group board members.


    Bella will not be too busy with the wedding preparation, as she will only attend the party. Still, her mother might be too busy helping her aunt.


    "Mom, so you will go there early tomorrow morning?" Bella asked.


    Natalie nods, "Yes. I feel bad because I cannot come earlier to help Emma."


    "It¡¯s okay, mother," Henry chimed in. "Aunty Emma understands you are preoccupied with helping my sister look after the twins."


    "Yes, Mom. There¡¯s no need to feel bad about it. Besides, I hear my uncle¡¯s wife also helps Aunty Emma..." Bella added.


    One of the exciting things Bella looked forward to at her Aunt Emma¡¯s wedding was that she would meet her uncles, Jacob and Thomas Donovan.


    After the last shareholder meeting at the Donovan Group, when she removed her uncles from the company, she never talked with them again. Even at her father¡¯s funeral, she ignored them both.


    "You are right, but still, I have to be there tomorrow morning," Natalie said with a faint smile.


    Later, Natalie remembered Henry¡¯s girlfriend. She glanced at Henry and asked about his girlfriend, Aria Foster, and whether she would join them for dinner tomorrow.


    Hearing about it piqued Bella¡¯s curiosity. She looked at Henry and smiled when she saw his shy gaze.


    "Sis, I have a girlfriend," Henry shyly said.


    "I know," Bella chuckled, "Mom already told me about her. You can bring her to dinner if Aunty allows you..." She wanted to meet her future sister-in-law.


    "Thank you, sis." A relieved smile appeared on his lips before he continued, "Aunty Emma asked her to come. So she will be there tomorrow."


    "I¡¯m looking forward to meeting my future sister-in-law..."


    The three continued to talk about the party while Tristan and Dax, busy, spoke about something in the corner. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not long after, Noora appeared to announce that dinner was ready.

 Chapter 553: Meeting Sister-In-Law

    At The Donovan Family¡¯s Dinner.


    Bella was surprised when she arrived at Aunt Emma¡¯s house and found that many of her family members had already gathered for dinner. She thought she had arrived too early, before six, but it turned out she and her family were the last guests to arrive.


    All of her uncles, along with their wives and children, were present. She also noticed her Grandpa and a few of his old friends who live nearby engaging in conversation.


    When everyone in the living room noticed Bella and Tristan¡¯s arrival, the room instantly fell silent. No one spoke, but all eyes were on them.


    Bella immediately felt awkward at being the center of attention. She had never been the focus of attention at family events before.


    Even during her father¡¯s funeral, when her family came to pay their last respects, she had spent most of her time at the hospital, allowing her Grandpa and mother to meet with everyone. She had only appeared for a few hours and had kept her distance from everyone.


    Feeling nervous, Bella held Tristan¡¯s hand tightly while smiling at her aunt.


    "Bella and Tristan, thank you for coming," Emma stood up from her seat and quickly embraced Bella. Still, she immediately loosened her embrace when her eyes fixed on Aurora and Oliver.


    "Aunty Emma, please don¡¯t say that...it is our duty as a family to come to this dinner," Bella answered, following her to see the twins. She continued, "Thank you for inviting us, Aunty Emma..."


    "Oh my Lord, why do these two cute babies grow so fast?" Emma said she approached Aurora and Oliver in Natalie and Noora¡¯s arms.


    While Bella was talking to Emma, Tristan stood in his place, holding his son¡¯s hand. He felt uncomfortable in this place but tried not to show it.


    When Tristan saw Isaac Donovan approach them, he slightly nodded and smiled at him.


    "Tristan, thank you for coming," Isaac offered him a warm handshake while glancing and smiling at Dax.


    "Grandpa, this is our family event. Of course, my wife and I should come," Tristan politely answered while accepting his handshake.


    "Alright, let¡¯s sit first," Isaac said, smiling happily because Tristan was willing to meet all his family members despite what had happened in the past. Almost all of his family tried to harm Bella, but this man holds his grudge and decides not to punish them.


    "Thank you, Tristan..." Isaac nodded at him before he turned to see Dax again, "Little Dax, let¡¯s sit and meet your uncles and Grandpa... you too, Tristan, please follow me," He took Dax¡¯s hand. He led him and Tristan to meet others.


    Bella also followed Tristan and Dax, but before she settled on the couch, she greeted her first and third uncles.


    Even though her stance with them is still the same, Bella can¡¯t ruin her Aunty Emma and Uncle Archy¡¯s happy wedding vibe by ignoring them, especially since her Grandpa¡¯s best friend is with them tonight. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Uncle Jacob," Bella said while offering her hand for a handshake. She also gestured to Tristan to do the same and greet her uncle. It would be awkward if Tristan also ignored them.


    "Bella, Tristan, it¡¯s nice to meet you both again," Jacob¡¯s gentle and sincere tone surprised Bella. She rarely heard and witnessed how gentle her uncle was to her.


    Bella said nothing more to him. She nodded and turned to his first uncle¡¯s new wife. She politely greeted her before she did the same to her third uncle, Thomas.


    Looking at these two men who had changed entirely from the last time she had met them amazed her. But it was not enough to melt her icy heart toward them.


    After the short greeting, Bella left them and joined her mother and aunt, who were now giggling while holding the twins.


    However, not long after, Bella noticed her brother sitting with a girl in the corner. When she arrived earlier, her attention was focused on her aunt and uncle, and she completely forgot about her older brother and his new girlfriend. She also saw Liam, her aunt Emma¡¯s son, sitting with them.


    In the other corner of the room, Bella saw her female cousin. She hadn¡¯t been close to them since childhood, and what happened between her and their father made her relationship with them even worse. She didn¡¯t bother to glance at them or try to greet them.


    After excusing herself to her mother, Bella asked Tristan to follow her to approach Henry and his girlfriend.


    "Hello, Sis..." Henry stood from his seat and awkwardly smiled at Bella. He was nervous to introduce his girlfriend, Aira, to his sister. "Hi, brother-in-law..." He offered a handshake to him.


    "Henry! It¡¯s nice to meet you again," Tristan smiled at him.


    "Bro, why do you look so shy?" Bella stifled a laugh when she saw her brother blushing. "So, this pretty lady is my future sister-in-law?"


    Bella smiled at the blonde bob-haired woman in the pretty blue knee-length dress; she looked innocent and kind, and her green almond eyes stared at her shyly.


    Henry clears his throat, "Yes, sister. Let me introduce you..." He said while glancing at the woman beside her. Gently placing his hand behind her, he said, "This is Aria Foster; she is my girlfriend."


    Henry looked at Aria, "You know her, right? My sister, Arabella Donovan, and this is her husband, Tristan Sinclair." He said, smiling at Tristan.


    Aria immediately offered both of them a polite handshake. She still can¡¯t believe that Bella is actually the biggest shareholder in their company, their true boss. And when she also learns that Bella¡¯s husband is Tristan Sinclair, one of the country¡¯s wealthiest men, she is even more stunned.


    "Alright, let¡¯s sit and talk," Bella said to break the tension. After the four of them settled, then she glanced at Liam. "Hello there, Liam...you look more handsome and mature now. Congratulations on finally finishing your studies."


    "Sis, thank you," Liam nodded and smiled at Tristan. "And thanks for coming."


    "Liam, no need to say that..." Bella shook her head while chuckling. "How do you feel about having a father again, Liam?"


    "Super happy..." Liam smiled at Bella. At first, he was shocked to learn that his mother would be remarried, but he was also happy because he could pursue his dream abroad without worrying about his mother anymore; there was someone who would care for her.


    Bella didn¡¯t know when she would revisit East City again, but today, she was grateful. She could meet all her family to celebrate her Aunt Emma¡¯s wedding day.


    "Great to hear that, Liam..."

 Chapter 554: What If He Creates Chaos?

    A few weeks later.


    Not much has happened in Bella¡¯s life since Emma and Arcy¡¯s wedding in East City. She enjoys her days as a mother of three. She spends almost all her time with her firstborn, Dax, who has grown significantly.


    Recently, Bella has been focusing a lot on Dax because she sometimes worries about how fast he grows. And it¡¯s not only his physical but also his mind. He seems to be a lot smarter than many adults.


    In addition to her daily life with her family, Bella is looking forward to the wedding of her two best friends, Sean Spencer and Harper Reed.


    Their wedding ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow at one of Spencer¡¯s hotels, which has been closed to the public for a few days to accommodate the event.


    Bella can¡¯t wait to attend and reunite with her best friends, including Jack Foster. She heard from Sam that Jack Foster had arrived yesterday.


    She attempted to call him, but strangely, he didn¡¯t answer. Instead, he texted her back to say he was busy with something and would call her once he finished his work. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, until today, Jack Foster has never called her, as if he is trying to avoid her.


    This makes Bella suspicious that he might cause trouble tomorrow at Harper¡¯s wedding ceremony. She knows Jack still has high hopes of marrying Harper.


    After thinking for a while, Bella typed something on her cell phone:


    "Jack, would you like to come with me and Tristan to the wedding ceremony tomorrow?"


    After sending the text message, Bella put her phone on the table.


    If she could keep Jack close to them, she might be able to anticipate what he would do, right?


    "Why can¡¯t this guy move on? He¡¯s so selfish. How could he wish Harper would not marry her choice and instead end up marrying him? Jack, Jack... you are such a fool! How shameless!"


    Bella softly mutters, trying to distract herself from thinking about Jack, watching the business news on television, and starting to pump her breast milk for the twins.


    "Oh, so... Is Jack Foster a fool? Seriously?" Tristan¡¯s voice suddenly echoed from the office door. Bella turned to see him approaching.


    "You hear what I¡¯m saying?" Bella chuckled as he drew near.


    Tristan didn¡¯t reply immediately; instead, he walked to the seating area. After settling beside her, he said, "Yes, I hear you, albeit faintly. You seem to have branded Jack a fool. How could he run such a large enterprise if that were true?"


    Bella paused what she was doing. After tidying up the pumping kit, she looked at Tristan, her expression growing somber enough to concern him. He remained silent, waiting for her to speak.


    After taking a deep breath, Bella finally began, "Do you remember the story I told you about the foolish promise Jack and Harper made back in college?"


    Tristan furrowed his forehead, trying to remember what Bella was referring to. After a moment, he recalled.


    "You mean they¡¯ll get married if they¡¯re both still single at thirty-five?" Tristan asked.


    "Yes, that¡¯s it," Bella replied with a shrug. "But I¡¯m worried Jack will cause trouble at Harper¡¯s wedding ceremony tomorrow."


    "Cause trouble? What do you mean?" Tristan asked, growing more confused.


    Bella quickly explained her conversation with Jack a few months ago before Harper announced her relationship with Sean. Jack intends to marry Harper once they both turn thirty-five, which is now only three years away.


    "That¡¯s why I think Jack will cause trouble tomorrow. I tried to contact him yesterday, but he seemed to avoid me." Bella paused for a long, deep breath.


    Bella adds, "Jack said he is busy. He promised to return my call, but until now, he hasn¡¯t." A trace of worry was heard in her voice.


    Tristan shook his head slowly while laughing softly.


    "What a foolish man! How can he just claim that Harper is his last hope? Did he think no one would be attracted to Harper?" He said.


    "I know, right? I told him he had been married once, while Harper had never been. He has no right to ruin Harper¡¯s happiness by trying to steal her from Sean. He is a foolish man!"


    "Hmm, he is¡ª" Tristan smiled and turned his eyes to the television. He should try not to talk about Jack again, or his wife would be stressed.


    Bella also stopped talking about Jack; she excused herself to store the breast milk she had just pumped in the cooler.


    Not long after, Bella returned. She saw Tristan was still sitting on the sofa watching the business news.


    Sitting beside Tristan, she reached for her cell phone, checking for Jack¡¯s reply. Her expression turned sour again when she didn¡¯t get a response from Jack.


    Instead, Sam and Leo were making a fuss on the group chat. They both asked her about tomorrow¡¯s wedding ceremony.


    "Why did they want to come with us? These two fools, why were they afraid the guard would stop them from entering the hotel?" Bella smirks.


    Tristan turned to see her, noticing she looked annoyed as she typed on her cell phone.


    "Who wants to come with us to the wedding ceremony?" Tristan asked.


    "Sam and Leo. They asked if they could join us," Bella replied thoughtfully. "Don¡¯t worry, hubby. They are not going with us in the same car. They want to follow our car. They said no one, not a single presidential guard, would stop you since they know how close you are to Jayson Spencer."


    Tristan chuckled.


    "Well, if they have an official invitation, they should be able to enter the hotel area without any issues. I heard the event organizer requested a recent photograph of all the guests, right?"


    "Yes," Bella nodded. "Harper mentioned that everyone entering the hotel area would go through facial recognition to ensure no intruders get in. But Sam and Leo got anxious when they learned that many influential figures would attend and how tight the security would be. They hate being treated like strangers by the Guards."


    "That makes sense. Jayson is the current president of this country, so it¡¯s natural for security to be strict. If they want, they can follow our car, and I¡¯ll ensure they can enter the venue without any problems."


    "Thank you, hubby," Bella said before turning her attention back to her cell phone, letting Sam and Leo know to come to her house tomorrow at noon before they left for the wedding ceremony.

 Chapter 555: Heading To Harper and Sean’s Wedding

    The day Bella eagerly awaits has finally arrived¡ªHarper and Sean¡¯s wedding day.


    Standing in the front walk-in closet, Bella rechecks her appearance in the mirror.


    For this special occasion, she chose a unique, custom-made navy blue wrap dress that falls to her knees to conceal her size fourteen. Although she has achieved significant weight loss, she still feels she has not reached her ideal size, six or eight.


    Her ink-black hair hangs down her back, and she adorns herself with a pretty necklace featuring a pink diamond that matches her wedding ring. She slips on glittering gold stilettos that coordinate perfectly with her small clutch to complete her appearance.


    Bella didn¡¯t use makeup too much, but she only used a thin skin cushion and rose-colored lipstick.


    Feeling prepared, Bella glances over at Tristan, seated on the sofa, looking Godly handsome in his tuxedo.


    "Hubby, how do I look? Do I seem to fit in with this, or do I look like I¡¯m double my size in your eyes?" she asks, eagerly awaiting his response. "I just need your honest opinion...please!"


    Tristan smiles as he rises from his seat, taking a moment to assess her from head to toe.


    "How do I look?" Bella prompts, growing impatient.


    "Are you sure you can walk in those high heels? We might be standing for most of the party," Tristan expresses concern. He thinks she looks beautiful in her heels, but he doesn¡¯t want her to be uncomfortable.


    Bella was rendered speechless. She asked about her dress, but he commented on her heels.


    Gosh!


    "No worries; I can handle it. But I only ask you to rate my dress." Bella didn¡¯t usually like wearing high heels. Still, today, she wanted to wear a beautiful stiletto for her best friend¡¯s wedding.


    Tristan stood before her, tilting his head to scan her dress again before meeting her beautiful gray eyes.


    "My wife, you look perfect. Even if you still haven¡¯t achieved the ideal weight, you always complain about it," he said with a smile, noting her glare. "But with this kind of dress, I can¡¯t see the difference; you look so HOT with your sexy curves."


    Bella let out a deep sigh of relief at his words.


    "Thank you, hubby. I feel more confident now after hearing your compliment."


    "But, dear... something was bothering me when I saw you in this dress," Tristan said, his expression slowly turning thoughtful.


    "Huh!? What is it?" Bella asked worriedly, glancing in the mirror to check for any flaws in her dress. After scanning for a few seconds, she saw nothing wrong.


    "Your cleavage is too revealing. Can you cover it up? It kind of bothers me if other people see it..." he said with a tense expression, causing Bella to stifle a laugh.


    "Alright, I will..." Bella replied, entering the walk-in closet again to find a small pin. She agreed with him; her breasts still looked large because she was breastfeeding their babies.


    ...


    Not long after,


    After Tristan and Bella briefly spoke with Dax and her mother in the living room, they excused themselves to go. They needed to move quickly so they could mingle with other guests before the ceremony started.


    However, when Bella arrived in the front yard, she was surprised to see a handsome man in a tuxedo leaning against the Maybach parked behind Tristan¡¯s car.


    Bella clenched her fists, trying to suppress her frustration. Over the past two days, she attempted to reach out to him unsuccessfully. She didn¡¯t understand why he was suddenly avoiding her. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Jeez... Jack Foster. You finally show up..." Bella approached him, narrowing her eyes as if trying to read his thoughts.


    Jack ignored her irritation and smiled, complimenting her, "Wow! You look so stunning, Bella."


    Bella was momentarily speechless and was not even flattered by Jack¡¯s compliment.


    "Tristan Sinclair," Jack said, gazing at Tristan, "You are so lucky to have this beautiful lady. I envy you, man!"


    "Thanks..." Tristan replied with a smile while taking Bella¡¯s hand. He tries to lessen her annoyance.


    "Jack, get in the car!" Leo suddenly appeared from the vehicle behind Jack¡¯s car. "We¡¯ll be late if we delay any longer."


    "Ah, my bad..." Jack waved at Leo before turning back to Bella. "My pretty friend, we¡¯re running late. We¡¯ll talk later, alright?" he said as he opened the car door for himself. But before he entered, Bella spoke again.


    "Don¡¯t do anything crazy in there, Jack Foster!" Bella warned him. She had already texted him that morning; she would be furious if he caused chaos at Harper¡¯s wedding ceremony.


    Jack smiled at Bella and gently tapped the top of her head.


    "Tsk tsk... You have a wild imagination, Bella. I promise I won¡¯t do anything stupid. Trust me¡ª" he said before stepping into the car.


    "My darling wife, let¡¯s go. Leo is right; we will be late if we stay here," Tristan said, leading her to the car.


    Soon, three cars left the house and sped towards the wedding ceremony venue.


    Along the way, Bella couldn¡¯t shake her concerns about Jack¡¯s attitude. He appeared calm and cheerful, but there was a hint of sadness in his gaze¡ªsomething she rarely saw from him.


    "Darling, just relax. Trust him; he won¡¯t do anything foolish. Just remind him that if he tries anything, he risks losing his company, RDF Group¡­" Tristan reassured her, taking her hand and placing it on his lap.


    Bella looked at Tristan with a faint smile, though a trace of worry lingered in her eyes.


    "I know Jack; he won¡¯t jeopardize his company for anything, especially not for this," Tristan continued to reassure her.


    "I¡¯ll make sure to remind him of that!" Bella agreed. As they arrived at the hotel, she felt convinced that Jack wouldn¡¯t risk their company¡¯s reputation by causing a scene at someone else¡¯s wedding to steal a bride.


    It would be amusing if his face ended up in the gossip columns on the internet, right?


    Bella chuckled at the thought of numerous headlines about Jack Foster attempting to steal Harper.

 Chapter 556: Congrats, My Dear Friend

    Sitting inside the bride¡¯s waiting room with Harper and her mother brings back old memories for Bella.


    In the past, when Bella was still studying in the U.S., these two women never considered her an outsider. They always treated her as a family member.


    Harper often felt that her mother was more biased toward Bella.


    Just like now, Harper protested when she saw her mother giving Bella sweet cake while forbidding her from eating anything since she wore her wedding gown three hours ago. Her mother said it would be a disaster if she ate because it might cause her pretty gown to rip or get stained.


    Sighing deeply, Harper narrowed her eyes at Bella and her mother, sitting on the sofa. At the same time, she waited on the bench for the wedding ceremony to begin.


    "Mom, I also want that New York Cheesecake. Please give me a bite. I¡¯m really craving something sweet right now," Harper pleaded. Still, her mother only rolled her eyes and ignored her, continuing to talk to Bella.


    "Ugh, Mom, seriously, I feel like my blood sugar is now dropping to the lowest. I might faint any minute now..." Harper continued, trying to scare her mother while giving her best puppy-dog eyes as she watched Bella slowly enjoy a slice of cake with a tiny spoon at a time.


    After a few seconds, Bella turned to look at Harper while placing her empty plate on the table and gently wiping her mouth with a soft napkin. She smiled, admiring how beautiful her best friend looked in her wedding gown.


    Harper¡¯s wedding gown looks stunning, perfectly hugging and showing her curves. Her dark brown hair is styled in a bun and adorned with a beautiful tiara. Although Harper is already pretty, seeing her in this gown makes Bella feel like she¡¯s gazing at a goddess who has just stepped down from heaven.


    "Oh dear, Harper Reed, can you hold off for only a few hours? You don¡¯t want to ruin your beautiful gown, right girl¡­!?" Bella said as she approached her.


    "What Bella said is correct, my dear daughter. I stopped you from eating sweets because you need to maintain your weight. Also, don¡¯t be envious of Bella; she¡¯s a breastfeeding mom, and she needs to eat more," Grace Harrison added with a warm smile at Bella before helping to adjust her daughter¡¯s gown.


    Harper shrugs, visibly disagreeing.


    Bella stifled a laugh at the sight before her. She leaned closer and whispered, "Hold yourself together, girl; otherwise, you¡¯ll look twice your weight in the video or picture appearing online after the ceremony..." She winks to tease her.


    Instantly, Harper¡¯s face turned panicked. "Oh no! How could I have forgotten about the media coverage?" She closed her eyes, trying to catch her breath and calm her nerves.


    "And if you drink too much now, you might need to rush to the restroom in the middle of the ceremony. My friend, that would not be a pretty situation, right?" Bella added, heightening Harper¡¯s stress.


    "Yeah, yeah. I know... I know... maybe I¡¯m just nervous. That¡¯s why my sweet tooth demands to eat something," Harper said helplessly.


    "Nervous? You? Why are you nervous?" Grace Harrison asked, amused as she looked at her clearly anxious daughter. Harper was a girl who had always been independent and confident throughout her childhood. "Dear, everything will be alright; no need to stress about it. Just be yourself," Grace continued.


    Bella nodded, agreeing with Harper¡¯s mother. However, she could relate to Harper¡¯s feelings because she had experienced similar nerves. She pulled a refreshing mint candy from her clutch and offered it to Harper.


    "Take this; chew it will help you feel calm..."


    "Thanks, girl," Harper replied. Once more at ease, she suddenly remembered her other friends and quickly asked Bella about them. Why did they not come in to meet her?


    "Jack and the others are waiting in the garden. They wanted to follow me here, but security stopped them." Bella silently sighed.


    She felt guilty for being able to enter while the others were kept out. Security only allowed Tristan and her in because this place was reserved exclusively for family.


    "I already complained to Sean about it, but he can¡¯t do anything right now because of the presidential security," Harper said with a bitter smile.


    "Yeah, I understand," Bella responded. She had already heard this from Tristan. Fortunately, Spencer¡¯s family considered Tristan a member of their family.


    Bella sat back on the sofa and asked, "Where is Sean?"


    Since her arrival fifteen minutes ago, Bella hadn¡¯t seen Sean at all. She had only met Keira, his little sister, and his parents.


    "He was here before you arrived, but I guess he won¡¯t be back because the ceremony is about to start," Harper explained.


    "I see..." Bella replied.


    Soon after, Harper¡¯s father entered with a few people, instructing them to return to the venue as the ceremony would begin shortly.


    Bella and Grace Harrison hurried outside the hotel backyard to join the others. The wedding ceremony would take place in the garden behind the hotel, with beautiful city views in the distance.


    This afternoon, media access is limited; reporters can only cover the event from a distance to avoid disturbing the ceremony or the high-profile guests.


    The guest list for the ceremony is also restricted to close family and friends.


    The main celebration will occur later in the evening. However, Bella plans to skip the party, as it will host many guests¡ªpotentially hundreds.


    ...


    Bella rushed to sit next to Tristan in the second row of Spencer¡¯s family, while Grace Harrison sat in the front row with her own family.


    After settling into her seat, Bella noticed Sean standing at the front, looking handsome as he awaited his bride¡¯s arrival.


    A joyful smile spread across Bella¡¯s face when Sean¡¯s eyes met hers. She felt genuinely happy for him; he had finally found someone he would cherish for the rest of his life.


    ¡¯Congrats, my dear friend, Sean Spencer...¡¯ Bella whispered silently.


    As if sensing her feelings, Tristan gently squeezed her hands and tapped them softly, surprising Bella as she turned her gaze to him.


    Bella smiled at her handsome husband.


    She leaned closer and whispered, "Hubby, I¡¯m so proud of Sean. I pray he will love and care for Harper forever, and they will have a happy marriage."


    "Why do we have the same prayer?" he replied, surprised.


    "Because we are one¡­" Bella giggled as she noticed him leaning in to kiss her. She playfully stopped him, trying to focus on the wedding ceremony.


    The sacred ceremony finally began... sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 557: The Honeymoon Plan

    The beautiful and majestic wedding ceremony made the time fly for everyone attending.


    By the time the holy ceremony was completed, it was already close to lunchtime. The wedding lunch was equally grand, unforgettable, and delicious.


    But Bella chose not to stay longer at the reception hall with the other guests. Her breasts are already bulging and full of milk for the twins.


    Hurriedly, she headed upstairs with Tristan to their room to rest and pump breast milk before doing anything else, including returning home.


    "Hubby, should I stay here until night?" Bella asked, feeling conflicted about leaving without him. "I can ask Mom and Noora to bring the kids; this hotel room is big enough for them to stay for a few hours while we wait for you."


    "It¡¯s fine. You can go home without me," Tristan replied, taking off his suit and settling opposite her. "I feel sorry for the twins if they have to come here. Besides, Dax is still not as fit as usual," He knew he couldn¡¯t risk Dax¡¯s health.


    "Okay, I also feel tired wearing this beautiful but painfully uncomfortable stiletto. My poor feet refuse to give me strength to walk longer now." She faintly took a deep breath and regretted not hearing Tristan¡¯s warning.


    Tristan¡¯s expression became worried as she looked at her. "I already asked Bryan to bring your flat shoes here."


    Bella smiled as she raised her thumb to compliment him: "You are the best husband, Mr. Sinclair..." His sweet attention warmed her heart.


    "I¡¯m far from that, my dear. I¡¯m not the best husband yet, but I will try to match you sooner as the best husband..."


    Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh when she heard his words.


    "You need a decade, hubby..."


    "I know. That¡¯s why I always try to please my wife and child." Tristan paused briefly before continuing, "Oh, right. I forgot to update you. Our honeymoon schedule has been decided."


    "Wow! When? Where?" Bella asked excitedly, as she had been looking forward to this since Tristan had mentioned planning their honeymoon in this country.


    "Next month, when the weather is mild..." Tristan shared his plans with Bella, which he had been preparing for weeks.


    Bella¡¯s excitement lit up her face, but it dimmed when she thought about their children. "Tristan, what about the kids? Can we bring them with us?"


    "I¡¯m sorry, dear, but we can¡¯t," Tristan replied softly. "Don¡¯t worry; the place is not too far. Besides, we¡¯ll only be gone for two nights. The twins have enough stocked milk for two nights and three days, right?"


    Tristan understood that his wife rarely wanted to go out for that reason.


    "Hmm, I have enough stock for a month for them, so it should be fine¡ªas long as I keep pumping and stocking for them," Bella said.


    Just then, she finished pumping the milk and cleaning the pump kit.


    "That¡¯s great! It won¡¯t be a problem then," Tristan replied happily. He had been eagerly awaiting this day. He only wanted to spend the entire day with her in a secluded spot, enjoying nature.


    ...


    Not long after, Bella was getting ready to return home when the doorbell echoed through the room. She and Tristan both looked at the door.


    "Bryan?" Bella asked as she stood up, realizing she needed to go to the bathroom before leaving the hotel.


    "Maybe," Tristan replied, standing up and walking toward the door. He thought Bryan had come to bring Bella¡¯s flat shoes, but it wasn¡¯t him. He was surprised to see Sean standing there.


    "Sean, what are you doing here, man? Is the wedding event downstairs finished?" Tristan had thought they were still taking pictures with the guests and family.


    "Yeah, it¡¯s done. Well, bro, we need to rest, too. The night will be long for the reception..." Sean said with a faint smile. "Can I come in? I want to talk to Bella."


    "Ah, sorry¡­" Tristan immediately let him into the room. "Where¡¯s your wife?" he asked.


    Sean¡¯s face flushed when he heard Tristan refer to Harper as his wife. He hurriedly responded, trying to sound casual.


    "Harper is changing her gown. She¡¯ll be here soon to see Bella before she goes home."


    "I see. Sean, you can take a seat. I¡¯ll go get Bella," Tristan said as he walked toward the bedroom. However, it swung open just before he reached the door, and Bella emerged.


    "Hubby, who is¡ª" Bella¡¯s sentence abruptly stopped when she saw Sean sitting in the living room. He wasn¡¯t wearing his wedding tuxedo anymore; instead, he had changed into a white slim-fit shirt and khaki trousers. He looked so casual.


    "Sean? What are you doing here?" Bella was at a loss for words upon seeing him in their room. Shouldn¡¯t he be with his wife right now?


    She quickly walked to the seating area and sat across from Sean. "Bro! No way... Did you fight with your wife? Seriously, Sean Spencer?!"


    Tristan stifled a laugh as he settled beside Bella. "Oh dear wife, please don¡¯t jinx them."


    "Ah, my bad. Sorry, Sean..." A guilty smile appeared on Bella¡¯s face. "Where¡¯s Harper? Please don¡¯t say you kept her locked in the room and didn¡¯t let her out from there to meet other people?"


    Sean chuckled at Bella¡¯s wild imagination. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "For God¡¯s sake, Bells... We aren¡¯t fighting. Don¡¯t worry; I will never be mad at her." Sean smiled. "I¡¯m coming to meet you before you go home. Harper will be here any minute; she¡¯s changing her wedding gown."


    "Why are you guys in such a hurry?" Bella frowned. "I mean, we can meet for lunch tomorrow, right?"


    "We¡¯re leaving the country early tomorrow morning and probably won¡¯t be back for two weeks¡ª" Sean couldn¡¯t finish his sentence; he felt too shy to discuss his honeymoon plans.


    Knowing Sean was shy, Bella decided to change the subject.


    "Sean, congratulations again on your wedding. I¡¯m really sorry that Dax can¡¯t be your ring bearer." Bella said, still feeling bad because her son had suddenly fallen ill the day before.


    "We can¡¯t avoid it, Bells. Dax was sick..." Sean smiled. Last night, he had been worried about Dax. He decided to visit Bella and Tristan¡¯s house to see him, ensuring the little guy wouldn¡¯t be disappointed about being unable to be the ring bearer.


    "I hope he gets well soon. Harper and I will visit him after we return," Sean continued.


    "Thanks..." Bella replied.


    Not long after, Harper joined them.


    They chatted for a few more minutes before Bella excused herself. She needed to go home, and the newlyweds also needed to rest before their big party tonight.

 Chapter 558: Did He Think Astington Would Become a Battlefield

    Two days after Harper and Sean¡¯s wedding, Bella had a peculiar appointment.


    After almost a year, she finally decided to visit the Quantum Capital building to meet Jack and the others. She felt excited about seeing them all, especially since Jack would treat them to a big lunch before he flew back to New York City.


    "What time are you leaving?" Tristan asked as he entered the breastfeeding room.


    Bella, currently nursing her daughter Aurora, looked up to see Tristan. He was neatly dressed and appeared ready to go to the office.


    "Ten in the morning," she replied.


    "I see¡ª"


    "Hubby, I¡¯m not going back to work. I will just say hi to everyone there and go back home. Maybe a bit longer chat with Jack. Besides, today is Jack¡¯s last day in the country, and I haven¡¯t had a chance to talk to him properly," Bella explained, noticing the reluctance in Tristan¡¯s eyes.


    Bella understood her husband¡¯s concerns. He was worried that she might return to the business world, which he believed was still unsafe for her.


    A faint smile appeared on Tristan¡¯s lips as he listened to his wife¡¯s lengthy explanation. He walked over to her and crouched until their eyes were on the same level. Gently, he took her free hand and squeezed it lovingly.


    "My lovely wife, I¡¯m not worried about that," he said thoughtfully. "But I am concerned that Bryan won¡¯t arrive here before ten. I won¡¯t let you go there without my most trusted people guarding you. You know that, right?"


    "Ah, I see," Bella smiled slightly. "Where is he now?" she asked.


    Recently, Bella rarely goes out without Tristan. Even when he couldn¡¯t accompany her, Geoffrey would stay by her side. But today, she knew Geoffrey wouldn¡¯t be available since he was on his full-time duty, looking after their children. At the same time, Dax¡¯s personal tutor¡ªan outsider¡ªcame to their house.


    "He took the day off two days ago and is returning to his parents¡¯ house in another city. He¡¯s supposed to be back tonight, but since you¡¯re going to Quantum Capital, I asked him to return earlier." Tristan explained. He paused to check his watch. "He¡¯ll probably arrive here around thirty minutes past ten."


    Bella felt guilty upon hearing the news. If she had known that Bryan was in another city, she would have asked Sam to pick her up. Tristan wouldn¡¯t have stopped him from doing that, as he recognized Sam¡¯s capability.


    "You know I won¡¯t let you go if Bryan doesn¡¯t come, right?" he asked, concern clearly showing through his face.


    Tristan knew he was being overprotective, but he was also aware of how cruel people could be, especially those who wanted to harm his family.


    "It¡¯s okay, hubby. I¡¯ll wait until he arrives," Bella replied, squeezing Tristan¡¯s hand tightly as she tried to ease his worry.


    When Bella noticed a smile growing on his lips, she continued, "I¡¯m not visiting Quantum Capital for the official agenda; I just want to chat with them, especially Sam and Leo. I didn¡¯t talk much with them at Harper¡¯s wedding."


    "Thank you, dear," Tristan said, leaning closer to her. He kissed her gently before standing up to glance at their daughter. He felt slightly jealous of the twins for stealing his wife¡¯s attention and time lately.


    He shook his head lightly, trying to set aside his urge to touch his wife in the middle of breastfeeding their daughter. Stepping back, he said, "Dear, I¡¯ll go now. Call me if you leave the house."


    "I will," Bella smiled at him.


    Rising from the nursing chair, she placed Aurora in her baby box before picking up Oliver, who had just woken up. She walked Tristan to the stairs before returning to the nursing room to breastfeed her son.


    ***


    The morning started slow but got passed so fast.


    When Bella was ready to leave the house, she stopped by to see Dax, who was practicing piano in the music room. She felt relieved to see Noora and Geoffrey there with him.


    Noora made sure to record the piano session. At the same time, Geoffrey sat silently in the corner, his eyes never leaving Dax and the surroundings.


    Bella waited until Dax finished his piece, then approached him to tell him she was heading to the office. After a brief chat, she left the room.


    ...


    In the front yard, she spotted Bryan waiting for her next to a brand-new car she had never seen before¡ªa black sedan without any recognizable brand.


    "Hi Bryan, I¡¯m sorry if I interrupted your day off," Bella said, feeling slightly guilty.


    "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m happy to be here. I get bored at my parents¡¯ house," Bryan chuckled as he opened the door for her. "When Boss Tristan called me back, it was a good excuse to escape from them."


    Bella didn¡¯t press further; she appreciated that he was trying to make her feel less guilty.


    Once Bryan was seated behind the wheel, Bella asked, "Why did Tristan buy a new car? I¡¯ve never seen this one before."


    "Ma¡¯am, Boss Tristan bought this car for you. It has a defense system similar to that of a head of state¡¯s car¡ªbulletproof and grenade proof¡ªwhich is much better than his other bulletproof vehicles," Bryan explained.


    Bella gasped at his words. She wasn¡¯t sure whether to feel happy or sad about it.


    "Wow, a cool car! And Tristan gave it to me?" Bella was speechless. "Shouldn¡¯t he be the one who needs it? He often leaves the house."


    "Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t worry. Boss Tristan bought more than one¡ª" Bryan¡¯s sentence trailed off, suddenly cautious about revealing too much information. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He chats briefly with the guard at the gate before driving smoothly onto the main road, trying not to mention the car any further.


    Just when Bryan thought Bella had lost interest, her curious voice broke the silence. "How many cars did my husband buy this time?"


    Bryan caught Bella¡¯s demanding gaze in the rearview mirror, making it difficult for him to avoid the topic any longer.


    Quickly returning his focus to the road, he answered, "Five cars. Three are the same as this one, and two are SUVs..."


    Bella could only shake her head slowly, imagining her husband spending hundreds of millions on a car with such sophisticated security features.


    ¡¯Did he think Astington would become a battlefield in the future? Why is he equipping himself like this?¡¯ Bella mused, feeling a mix of amusement and concern.

 Chapter 559: Visiting Quantum Capital Building

    As Bella arrived at the Quantum Capital building, she spotted Sam waiting for her in the lobby.


    Before stepping out of the car, she turned to Bryan.


    "Bryan, you may rest for now. I¡¯m not going anywhere; I¡¯ll just have lunch later. Sam will inform you where my lunch location will be," she said.


    "Yes, Ma¡¯am..." Bryan nodded. He needed some sleep after rushing to the capital this early morning and driving for four hours nonstop.


    Bella stepped outside and approached Sam.


    "Boss, long time no see... it¡¯s great to see you," Sam greeted her politely as they walked toward the lobby.


    "Geez, Sam, we met at Harper¡¯s wedding two days ago, remember?" she chuckled, continuing, "By the way, why are you waiting for me here? Are you worried the guard won¡¯t let me use the executive elevator?" She narrowed her eyes at him as they approached the elevator.


    Sam laughed and quickened his pace to press the elevator button.


    "No one would dare to do that, Boss. A picture of your face is in their staff guidebook; moreover, people respect you and will never stop you from entering the building," Sam explained with a smile.


    Bella laughed at that, and her thoughts drifted back to when she first arrived at this building. The guard had forbidden her from parking in front because that area was reserved for directors and management. How quickly time has flown; it feels like it all happened yesterday.


    "Sam, I appreciate what you guys are doing," Bella said again as they entered the elevator. "But isn¡¯t it dangerous to be a bit lenient toward a woman like me like that?"


    "What do you mean, Boss? I don¡¯t get it." Sam glanced at her, a thin line appearing on his forehead.


    "Have you forgotten about Marco? That vile man has a thousand faces. His mask was no joke; it looked just like real people. What if someone used my look to get into this place and cause havoc in the company?" Her expression tensed at the thought.


    "Hahaha," Sam burst out laughing, making Bella frown. "I¡¯m sorry, Boss... Please don¡¯t take offense at my laughter."


    Bella said nothing, her gaze reflecting her disappointment at Sam¡¯s response.


    After his laughter subsided, Sam cleared his throat, his expression turning serious again.


    "Well, Boss, you¡¯re thinking too far ahead. A bit paranoid, if you don¡¯t mind me saying. That kind of plot only happens in Hollywood movies."


    Bella smiled at her silly thought. "Yeah, what am I thinking? You¡¯re right..." she said faintly.


    "Besides, why are you comparing yourself to Marco? He wears those masks because he¡¯s one of the most wanted criminals in several countries. He needs that kind of disguise," Sam added.


    She nodded in agreement. Sam was indeed correct. Who would want to do that? Besides, she was only an ex-CEO of Quantum Capital, not a mafia leader like Marco. No one will have the audacity to wear her face mask to wreak havoc in a small company like Quantum Capital, right?


    "No worries, Boss. Nothing bad will happen here," Sam reassured her as the elevator finally arrived on the 19th floor.


    "I hope so," she replied silently, gazing at the floor she usually frequented, which now looked different.


    Several new staff members were present, and fresh flowers adorned various spots. She couldn¡¯t help but smile, guessing this must be Harper¡¯s handiwork; the floor was beautifully decorated. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where are they?" Bella asked, turning to Sam.


    "In Leo¡¯s office. Boss Jack just arrived before you."


    Bella quickened her steps toward Leo¡¯s old office. Despite his promotion, she still couldn¡¯t believe he wasn¡¯t using the new office. When she asked why he hadn¡¯t moved, his response left her speechless: "I¡¯m too lazy to move; it¡¯s tiring and a waste of time."


    She knows he must have wanted to look after his wife, as Dana has become Harper¡¯s secretary.


    "Oh, Boss Bella... you finally made it!"


    Bella halted when she saw Dana approaching her, emerging from her old office, now occupied by Harper, the new CEO of Quantum Capital.


    "Oh dear Dana, you look even prettier than the last time I saw you," Bella said as she approached her.


    "Boss, stop flattering me," Dana smiled, feeling her cheeks warm.


    "How¡¯s your baby?" Bella asked, stopping right in front of her.


    "He is so¡ª" Dana¡¯s words suddenly trailed off. She pressed her lips tightly together, realizing she had accidentally revealed her baby¡¯s gender.


    "Oh, my lord! Dana, do you already know the gender?" Bella smiled happily as she grabbed Dana¡¯s hand. "Congratulations, Dana! It would be wonderful if your son becomes friends with Oliver..."


    Sam, who overheard Dana¡¯s comment, looked equally shocked. "Wow! Congratulations, Dana! I¡¯m so happy for you and your baby boy. Leo must be thrilled..."


    Dana felt terrible because she had accidentally revealed their son¡¯s gender, even though Leo had asked her not to tell anyone; he wanted it to be a surprise.


    "Thanks, Bella and Sam," Dana said with a forced smile. "Would you like to meet Leo?" She tried to change the subject.


    "Yes, yes! But I¡¯m running late now. I¡¯ll talk to you later, Dana. Are you coming with us, right?" Bella asked.


    Dana nodded and said, "Yes, Boss. Leo informed me this morning. But I still need to finish my piling work because my Boss is busy with her new husband..." She chuckled.


    "Geez, why are you bringing her up?" Bella couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    The two women suddenly giggled, imagining that Harper would never have a chance to check her cell phone. It seemed that Sean was keeping her trapped in their bedroom all day.


    "Alright, Dana, I need to meet Leo and Jack now; otherwise, they¡¯ll both scold me," Bella waved goodbye and rushed to Leo¡¯s office.


    ...


    "Bella, why did it take you so long?" Leo protested as soon as she entered the room. "You¡¯re late... almost an hour."


    "This is almost lunchtime, Bella. We don¡¯t have much time left," Jack said, glancing at his watch and shaking his head in annoyance.


    Bella didn¡¯t bother to reply. Instead, she looked at Sam and said, "Can you tell Bryan where we¡¯re having lunch? He needs to be prepared as usual..."


    "Sure, boss," Sam replied, pulling out his cell phone as he walked outside to call Bryan.

 Chapter 560: Jack’s Distraught!

    Bella approached the sitting area and settled right beside Jack Foster.


    "Boss Jack, I¡¯m a mother of three, and there are so many things I need to do before I can get away from them, especially my twins. So, please forgive me..." Bella shrugged deliberately, conveying a sense of sadness that made Jack look at her with concern.


    "I¡¯m just kidding, Bella. Please don¡¯t be sad, okay?" Jack tried to coax her.


    "Same to you. I was just teasing you," she grinned, which made him roll his eyes.


    "Alright, alright, enough about me. Now, tell me about your feelings. Do you feel any better? Or are you still annoyed and gloomy she¡¯s forever someone else¡¯s?" Bella asked.


    She didn¡¯t want to bring this matter up again after their conversation at Harper¡¯s wedding, but the sadness in his gaze made her worry.


    ¡¯Heaven! Why was Jack still not over his annoyance at Harper marrying the man she loved?¡¯ Bella silently took a deep sigh.


    "Bella, you won¡¯t believe what Jack told me," Leo suddenly said, smiling when he noticed Jack glare at him. Ignoring Jack, he turned to Bella and continued, "Jack actually plans to kidnap Harper."


    "Damn it! I knew it..." Bella shot a look at Jack. "I¡¯ve known you too long, Jack; you¡¯re so predictable. Tsk... Tsk... No wonder you avoided me for a few days. You must have put much effort into making this plan, huh?"


    Jack sighed deeply before responding to Bella and Leo.


    "Hey, c¡¯mon, guys. You know that¡¯s just my crazy talk, right? Of course, I won¡¯t do it. I¡¯m not insane. Uhm, would you mind stopping talking about it, Bella?" Jack asked politely, but Bella locked her intense gaze on him.


    "Jack Foster, if I didn¡¯t threaten you not to do it, you might have gone through with it, right?"


    Instead of answering her, Jack asked, "Wait. Seriously, how do you know?" When he noticed her roll her eyes, he added, "Did Stefan tell you?"


    "Oh my, that stupid Stefan knows about it too?" Bella was taken aback. "So, he¡¯ll help you?" her mind started to make a plan to scold Stefan later.


    "Good! At least I know Stefan is loyal to me and knows to keep his mouth shut." Jack¡¯s expression transformed into a smile. "The idea of stealing her was just a joke, alright? Please don¡¯t take it too seriously. You know me; I wouldn¡¯t do that." He explained, noticing her still sharp look.


    "I¡¯m telling the truth, Bella. How could I risk my reputation for something stupid!?"


    Bella felt a sense of relief as she looked at Jack, appreciating the sincerity in his words.


    "I will believe you now. But I suggest you take your time in finding a new wife, Jack. Make sure you choose the right woman this time." She felt terrible for him since he was the only one in their group without a partner.


    "I¡¯m not rushing," Jack replied with a smile, absentmindedly spinning his cell phone between his fingers. "I will devote my time to the company and shower all my nephews with gifts." He paused, narrowing his eyes at Leo. "By the way, do you know whether your child is a boy or a girl yet?"


    Leo smiled mysteriously, glancing back and forth between Jack and Bella. "Only very few people know. I won¡¯t tell you guys. Well, not yet. I¡¯m waiting for the right moment."


    "What?! But you have asked me to be your child¡¯s godfather. How could you not involve me in the most important aspect of godfathering a child?" Jack protested, narrowing his eyes at Leo, who only responded with a noncommittal smile.


    "Oh, I see what you¡¯re doing, Leo. Alright, just text me the gender if you don¡¯t want Bella to know," Jack said calmly. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella almost laughed at Jack¡¯s comment. "Oh, Jack, you are so clueless. Do you really want to know?" she asked.


    "Wait, you are among the very few who know?" Jack¡¯s eyes lit up as he turned to Bella.


    "Apparently, yeah."


    "No way!" Leo exclaimed, surprised that Bella already knew the gender of his child. "Did Dana tell you behind my back?"


    "Yeah, she mentioned it while we were coming here." Just then, Sam entered the room and sat down beside Leo.


    Leo nearly fell out of his seat, unable to believe Dana had shared that information. He had asked her not to say anything because he wanted to tease them a little before revealing the news.


    "Alright, we need to go now. It¡¯s almost twelve. Otherwise, we will be stuck in traffic," Sam said again when he noticed Leo was about to express his annoyance.


    "You¡¯re right, Sam." Bella stood up, avoiding Leo¡¯s glare. "Let¡¯s go, Jack, Leo..."


    Leo got up from his seat and looked at Bella and the others waiting by the door. "You guys can go ahead first. I must wait for Dana for a bit; Harper overloaded my wife with work. Could you believe that? My pregnant wife has a lot of work to do in the office." His expression showed his irritation.


    "Oh, cut it, Leo. You know how Dana loves her work. She¡¯s fine. By the way, I don¡¯t think we need to rush," Jack replied, nodding at him. "You know the restaurant location, right?"


    "Of course I do. I¡¯m the one who booked it," Leo chuckled as he walked to his table, gesturing for them to leave.


    ***


    Bella walked beside Jack as Sam moved ahead to wait for them at the elevator.


    "So, what is the gender of Leo and Dana¡¯s child?" Jack asked Bella curiously.


    "They¡¯re having a boy," Bella replied. She knew she couldn¡¯t keep anything from him, or he would pester her endlessly.


    "Wow! They¡¯re so lucky to have a son first," Jack said, feeling happy for Leo.


    "Yeah. Oh, Jack, I heard you¡¯re flying back tonight?" Bella asked as they entered the elevator.


    "Hmm, I can¡¯t leave the HQ for too long. Besides, my divorce from my ex-wife turned ugly. Even though all the paperwork has been finalized, her family continues to cause trouble for me."


    Jack pinched his temple, feeling distressed as he thought about the situation.


    "Why are they doing this? Didn¡¯t you give her enough alimony?"


    "How could I not? You know how much I loved her, right?"


    Bella nods.


    "I gave her the house we lived in, along with enough money for her to live comfortably in New York," Jack said with a bitter smile.


    "Then why is she still causing you trouble?" Bella asked, frowning in confusion.


    "Do you remember her brother?"


    "Andreas Corby?"


    "Yeah. He¡¯s been stressing me out. I am distraught with that stupid guy. A few days ago, he came to the office, made a scene in the lobby, and screamed to everyone that he demanded to see me. The security had to throw him out."


    "How shameless!" Bella exclaimed, feeling annoyed. She promptly recalled how Andreas Corby¡¯s girlfriend had nearly harmed her son.


    "Utterly shameless. He blames me, saying my actions had led him to a failing career and tearing his family apart."


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything more. She followed Sam and Jack toward the lobby but silently cursed that shameless Andreas Corby.

 Chapter 561: I Come To Fucking Kill You, JACK FOSTER!!

    "Boss Jack, if he shows up again, just throw him in jail," Sam said, sensing Jack¡¯s distress over having such a toxic ex-brother-in-law.


    "That¡¯s why I must return to New York¡ªto silence him. If I ignore him, he will only increase my headaches!" Jack said, forcing a bitter smile that revealed his stress to Bella and Sam.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go¡­" Sam said, walking ahead. "We will ride in Boss Bella¡¯s car. Bryan is already waiting for us," he added, pointing to the black sedan parked outside.


    The three of them approached the car. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, I recognize that type of car¡ªa bulletproof one. Right, Bella?" Jack glanced at her.


    "You¡¯re correct, Jack. My husband believes a civil war might break out, so he bought me this car..." Bella chuckled, still amused by her thoughts of Tristan¡¯s overprotectiveness.


    "Bella, your husband is such a sweetheart. It¡¯s clear he values your safety above all else," Jack remarked, happy for Bella. He knew Tristan was devoted entirely to her, having changed drastically from what he had heard in the past.


    "Thank you, Jack. Tristan is indeed sweet to me." Bella¡¯s smile widened as she thought of him. "By the way, how do you know about this car?"


    "Well, yes, I do own a car like this..." Jack replied proudly.


    "Cool! My husband has five cars like this." Bella casually said, but Jack felt shocked to hear that.


    "Damn! Tristan Sinclair really knows how to spend his money. This car costs a lot, and I even thought about it ten times before buying one." Jack shook his head, feeling defeated.


    Before Jack and the others could reach the car, another vehicle suddenly stopped behind theirs. The moment the door opened, they all halted as they recognized a familiar figure stepping out.


    "What the¡ª" Sam, standing in front of Bella and Jack, turned to them and asked, "Boss, Jack, I¡¯m not seeing things, right? That man is your brother-in-law, isn¡¯t he? Andreas Corby?"


    "Well, it looks like he¡¯s determined to meet you, Jack. He¡¯s chasing you all the way to this country," Bella playfully remarked, only to add Jack¡¯s annoyance.


    Just a few minutes earlier, Jack had mentioned that Andreas was creating chaos at their head office in New York, all to ask to see Jack. And now, he was here?


    ¡¯Does this guy really think the distance from New York to Astington is like the distance from Quantum Capital to my house in Little Heaven?¡¯ Bella was left speechless by Andreas¡¯s persistence in wanting to meet Jack.


    Jack glanced at Andreas Corby as he walked toward them, stirring an unbearable urge to punch his ex-brother-in-law in the face. He didn¡¯t respond to anyone else. His eyes remained fixed on Andreas.


    When they were just a few meters apart, Jack asked, "What are you doing in this country, Andreas? Why spend money on roundtrip airfare?"


    Jack was sure that this man was on the verge of bankruptcy; after all, he had made foolish decisions without proper prior assessments. After returning from this country, he had invested all his money in a questionable venture. Now, all his money had gone with the wind. To make things worse, his wife had divorced him and taken their child with her.


    Andreas Corby stopped and offered a faint smile at Jack.


    "If you come here to ask for money, I won¡¯t give you anything!" Jack pinched his eyebrow, angry to speak to him.


    A sneer crept onto Andreas¡¯s lips as he repeated Jack¡¯s question, "Why did I come here?"


    No one answers, but they all now look at him, confused.


    "I come to fucking kill you, JACK FOSTER!!" Andreas Corby shouted, pulled a pistol with a silencer under his coat, and shot in fast toward Jack¡¯s heart, "Die, you motherfucker!!"


    Pop!


    The bullet hit Jack¡¯s shoulder and threw him a few steps back, falling to the ground. Shocked Sam and Bella, as a few onlookers near the lobby.


    Pop!


    Another gunfire could be heard, and instantly, Sam, who was standing near Jack, threw his body to shield him, with his back facing Andreas Corby.


    "Boss¡ª" A mouth full of fresh blood burst out from Sam¡¯s mouth when a sharp bullet fiercely penetrated his skull.


    "Fuck you, Samuel Brown! Go away! I need to kill that bastard Jack Fucking Foster..." Andreas Corby roared while shooting Sam¡¯s feet.


    Unable to avoid the fire, Sam¡¯s massive body falls, with his face hitting the ground.


    Jack Foster, already lying on the ground, tried to move but couldn¡¯t. His shoulder felt in pain, and somehow, he couldn¡¯t move his leg as Sam¡¯s massive body was over half of his feet.


    "Run, Bella...run..." Jack said, staring in horror at Bella, who froze in her spot and looked in their direction. He could see the shock in her eyes; it made him feel like he wanted to fight back to make Andreas Corby pay for his actions, but he couldn¡¯t.


    Bella tried to move, but her legs felt like a huge rock. Everything happened so fast. In a matter of seconds, three bullets had injured her friends. Her eyes were horrified to see Andreas Corby, who was now pointing his gun at her.


    "Hello, Arabella Donovan. You are also one of my targets. Because of you, my life is now like hell! Now, go follow your friend to hell."


    Pop!


    Bella was too shocked by what happened. She tries to run to the car, but she still can¡¯t. She even lost her ability to scream, calling Bryan.


    When she thought the bullet would hit her head, she felt her body push away to the side and fell to the ground. The impact of her back on the concrete floor felt unbearable, but what surprised her was that someone was above her.


    She quickly opened her eyes and was shocked to see Bryan on top of her, looking at her with a calm yet frightening gaze.


    Her body was entirely under Bryan, who shielded her with his massive body like he was in a plank position. But something does not feel right.


    Why didn¡¯t she feel the pain of being shot?


    Did Andreas Corby miss...?


    "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m sorry..." Bryan whispered. "I¡¯m too late to know what happens outside. I can¡¯t hear anything. Please, please, don¡¯t move. Until back up comes..."


    A mouth full of blood splattered from his mouth, almost hitting Bella¡¯s face.

 Chapter 562: How Could I Die Like This?

    Bella tried to say something, but when she felt hot liquid start to drip down her arm near her chest, she was shocked to realize that it was Bryan who took the bullet for her.


    "B-Bryan... you... why..." Her eyes felt blurry, knowing this man was risking his life to protect her.


    "WHAT THE FUCK!! WHO ARE YOU!??" Andreas Corby shouted in surprise, seeing a stranger jump so quickly to protect Bella. He walked closer to look for a chance to shoot Bella, but the man¡¯s body protected her completely. He couldn¡¯t even see her feet.


    Pop!


    Another bullet hit Bryan¡¯s abdomen, but he stayed in his position even though he felt like dying.


    "Damn it! I will blow your head off if you don¡¯t move, mofo!" Andreas Corby cursed.


    When Andreas Corby was about to shoot again, a few Quantum Capital guards stealthily approached him from behind. Still, before they got close enough, Andreas noticed them.


    Only now did Andreas Corby realize that he was surrounded by several people ready to attack him. Seeing the many guards trying to be heroes, he laughed evilly. It made his blood boil, making him want to kill them all.


    "Oi! Do you want to be a hero? Or do you want to be dead meat!?" Andreas Corby shouted while pointing his gun at a nearby guard. He didn¡¯t wait for them to react and squeezed his pistol.


    Pop!


    Pop!


    Two guards immediately fell to the ground, causing the others to stop moving. Some onlookers even started running into the building, hiding to watch the tragic scene unfold before their eyes.


    "Call the police..."


    "Call an ambulance..."


    "OMG! Why is this crazy man killing everyone?"


    "Fuck! That¡¯s our former boss? Andreas Corby?"


    The frightened whispers of the people in the lobby made the atmosphere in front of Quantum Capital increasingly tense and frightening.


    ...


    While Andreas Corby was dealing with the others, Bella tried to calm her mind. She had to do something to stay alive, or she will never meet Tristan and her children again. Instantly, her eyes felt damp as a fearful question echoed in her mind, ¡¯How could I die like this?¡¯


    Bella tried harder to calm her mind, thinking fast about what she should do in this terrible situation. She knew no one would come closer to help them, and Andreas Corby seemed to have already lost his mind.


    Somehow, her feet felt numb; she couldn¡¯t fight a man with a gun, or she¡¯d also end up taking his bullet.


    Thinking that no one had a gun in the Quantum Capital building added to Bella¡¯s stress. She remembered only Tristan¡¯s people had one. Since she no longer worked in this building, those people had been withdrawn and returned to work at his office.


    ...


    Hearing what happened behind him frightened Bryan. He couldn¡¯t do anything to help. The only thing he could do now was shield Bella until backup arrived. Now, he hoped their Basecamp saw his urgent signal after he pressed the alarm before jumping to protect her.


    "Ma¡¯am, I feel nothing in my right shoulder and leg. I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t do anything to silence that bastard. Please wait for someone to come to help. Don¡¯t move¡ª" Bryan¡¯s voice snapped Bella back to her sanity and senses.


    ¡¯Wait, Bryan has a gun? He is Tristan¡¯s man!¡¯ A warm feeling slowly appeared in her heart. She still had hope to survive.


    Bella returned her gaze to Bryan, and seeing him holding his pain broke her heart. She asked, "Do you have your gun?"


    "I have it under my jacket, on the right side..." Bryan said, holding his pain and his plank position to avoid falling on her.


    "GOOD!"


    "Ma¡¯am, make sure you shoot his hand first. One shot, one chance..." Bryan suggested. He didn¡¯t know what was happening behind him. How far was the distance to the man? But he knew that if Bella wanted to stop the man, she had to take care of his gun first.


    Bella didn¡¯t say anything. She understood what Bryan was trying to tell her.


    She slowly moved her hand under Bryan¡¯s jacket and touched a cold, hard metal there.


    Her confidence instantly increased. For some reason, her body no longer felt as cold as before. It must be coming from her endorphins and survival instinct. But thanks to whatever it was, she felt her blood boil, her anger rising, and the killing intent to end Andreas Corby¡¯s crimes creeping into her heart and mind.


    After Bella gripped the gun, she whispered, "Move¡ª"


    Bryan smiled, seeing the light in her eyes, which was no longer fearful but rage. He moved, throwing his body to the side to allow her a clear view of Andreas Corby.


    With her back on the concrete floor, Bella pointed the gun at Andreas Corby with one hand and squeezed the trigger without second thought.


    Bang!


    The loud gunshot without the silencer echoed in the air. With one clear, precise shot, a bullet pierced Andreas Corby¡¯s hand, throwing his gun several meters away.


    A long howl escaped Andreas Corby¡¯s lips as he screamed, trying to bear the nameless pain in his hand. Blood dripped, adding to his fright and anger.


    "AAARGH!! YOU FUCKING BITCH!! HOW DARE YOU?"


    Andreas Corby¡¯s enraged gaze fixed on Bella as he ran towards her. He managed to pull out another gun, and with his uninjured hand, he aimed it at her.


    But Bella wasn¡¯t going to stay silent to accept his bullet; now, with both her hands holding the gun, she promptly aimed and squeezed the trigger again. This time, the bullet pierced Andreas Corby¡¯s forehead. His head slightly snapped backward, his body swayed, and instantly, he crashed onto the concrete floor. No sound. No movement. He died instantly.


    Silence hung in the air.


    Everyone waited.


    Bella stood up. She slowly approached Andreas Corby, holding the gun tightly with both hands. Her gaze was sharp, fixed on Andreas Corby¡¯s lifeless body.


    Once again, Bella squeezed the trigger, shooting repeatedly, ensuring that this man would never rise again. The sound of gunshots echoed, heightening the tense atmosphere.


    Not long after, a man¡¯s hand gently touched Bella¡¯s arm, startling her as she continued to point an empty gun at Andreas Corby.


    When Bella turned to see the person, she saw Leo smiling at her; the tears she had been holding back suddenly wet her cheeks.


    "Bella, he¡¯s dead; you¡¯ve killed that bastard and saved everyone," Leo said as he took the gun from Bella¡¯s hand. "Don¡¯t be scared. Everything will be okay."


    Leo¡¯s calm voice slowly dissipated the anger that had controlled her. "Leo, please, please call an ambulance..." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯ve called the ambulance and the police."


    "T-Thank you..." Bella said. Then she ran back to check on Sam.


    Bella remembered Sam getting shot twice, and he hadn¡¯t moved since the second bullet hit him. She prayed it hadn¡¯t hit his vital organs.

 Chapter 563: He’s Still Having A Pulse!

    A few minutes earlier.


    Tristan typed something on his iPad while riding in a car to Sinclair Tower. However, Reid¡¯s loud voice distracted him.


    "Boss, something happened to the young madam!"


    Reid¡¯s tone was filled with dread, catching Tristan¡¯s attention. He paused as he saw Reid¡¯s frightening expression. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What happened?" Tristan¡¯s heart tightened at the sight of Reid¡¯s expression, which looked like he had just encountered the Grim Reaper.


    "Bryan pressed the emergency button," Reid replied, returning his gaze to his cellphone screen. He noticed the red icon, which shouldn¡¯t have been lit, still showing and causing his phone to vibrate.


    Tristan¡¯s features suddenly turned pale, as if all the blood under his skin had disappeared without a trace.


    He knew exactly what the meaning of ¡¯Emergency Button¡¯ was. The button should not be pressed unless there¡¯s a terrible situation that Bryan can¡¯t handle by himself. In other words, his wife is in danger.


    "Heading to the location. NOW!" Tristan roared, throwing his iPad aside and pulling out his cell phone.


    While waiting for the connection, he asked, "Where is the car position?"


    "Quantum Capital¡ª" Reid answered after asking the driver to speed to the location immediately. He turned off the urgent alarm and checked his pistol.


    Tristan¡¯s face became increasingly colorless as he waited for the ringtone to end, but Bryan¡¯s cell phone remained unanswered.


    He made another call, this time only the first ring¡ªthe phone call connected.


    "Max, check what happened in the Quantum Capital Building," he ordered quickly. "Do it NOW!"


    Tristan didn¡¯t end the call. He waited, his worry-frightening gaze fixed on the street outside. He prayed that nothing had happened to his wife.


    "Check my car position and clear the road toward Quantum!" Tristan added his instruction to Max.


    Max did not respond on the other end, but Tristan could hear the keyboard sound from Max¡¯s side.


    A few more seconds passed, and Max¡¯s surprising voice echoed from the other end.


    "Oh my Lord! A crazy man is randomly shooting outside Quantum Capital!" His voice trailed off for a few seconds before he cursed loudly. "What the hell! This man, the former CEO of Stellar Entertainment, Andreas Corby, just shot Jack Foster! Damn it! He also shot Sam¡­ Where is Madam? Wait... wait..."


    Tristan felt his blood run cold after hearing Max¡¯s report, but his heartbeat stopped when Max didn¡¯t say if he had seen his wife in the CCTV footage.


    "Boss¡­ boss¡­ I found Young Madam! After a closer look at a few seconds of the CCTV footage, I saw Bryan get out of the car and shield her from the crazy man¡¯s bullet. She is lying on her back, shielded by Bryan; I believe she is fine, but Byan has taken the bullets meant for her. Confirmed! Young madam Bella is okay...repeat, she is okay..." Max immediately updated his report as he saw Bella in the footage.


    Fright and anger consumed Tristan. He needed to get there faster. After signaling Reid to send for backup and asking the driver to speed up, Tristan focused on hearing Max¡¯s alarming live report again.


    "Ooh...Boss, Boss, young madam, she took Bryan¡¯s gun. Yes, she shot the man¡¯s hand. And wow!! She killed him¡­ Boss, they are safe; madam is so cool she looks like¡ª"


    Tristan ended the call. He heard what he wanted to hear. The shooter died, and his wife is okay.


    "What the hell!? Why are you driving like a snail?" Tristan¡¯s icy voice sent a chill through the car. "Are you telling me to drive myself?" He couldn¡¯t believe they were still far from Quantum Capital. He needed to get there to see with his own eyes that his wife was alright.


    The driver said nothing but pressed the gas pedal deeper, and the car began to move even faster.


    Reid glanced at Tristan; he could see how dark his expression was now like the dark cloud now looming over him. He swallowed hard before reporting what he had just received from his contacts at Quantum Capital.


    "Boss, I have just received information from our people at Quantum Capital: Two guards died on the spot; their identities are unknown, but they appear to be foreigners. The shooter also died at the scene."


    Reid paused for a moment to take a deep breath.


    "Jack Foster and Bryan were shot, but they are still alive, though they¡¯ve lost a lot of blood. Sam is also alive but has lost consciousness. Your wife is fine, but she seems traumatized; she is just crying and not saying anything. Two ambulances have just arrived, and a few more are coming. They should arrive in about five minutes."


    Tristan clenched his hand tightly as he spotted the Quantum Capital building in the distance. Finally, their car came to a stop.


    The vehicle could not proceed because a crowd of onlookers tried to approach and check the situation, but a police line held them back.


    Without waiting for the car to stop, Tristan jumped from his seat and ran toward the building, with Reid following closely behind.


    When Tristan¡¯s people inside the police line saw him and Reid, they quickly opened a path for them to enter.


    Tristan¡¯s heart sank when he saw Bella standing near the ambulance, crying as she watched the paramedics carry Sam into the vehicle. Her brown coat was now stained with blood, and fear gripped him as he rushed over to her.


    "Bella, my dear¡­" Tristan called softly, taking her hand in his. He looked into her eyes, which were trembling as she stared back at him. Gently, he touched her cheek and felt her body shaking. Her sobs grew louder as she threw herself into his arms.


    "Tristan, Andreas Corby, he, he, wanted to kill all of us. He shoots the guards," her shaking voice barely audible but enough for Tristan to hear her. "And Sam, Sam, he didn¡¯t open his eyes; they said he¡¯s still having a pulse! He¡¯s still having a pulse¡­. but why didn¡¯t he move?" she looked up to meet Tristan¡¯s gaze.

 Chapter 564: Are You Injury?

    "Please ask the best doctor to make sure they are alive. I want them all to be safe, Tristan... Please..." Bella continued to speak through her sobs. "Please help them, huh!?"


    "I will ask the best doctors to save them all," Tristan said, tightening his arms around her as she let out her sadness. He then lifted her into his arms and carried her toward his car.


    After letting Bella sit in the car, Tristan didn¡¯t join her immediately. He closed the door and returned to speak to Reid. He asked him to handle the situation at that location and co-operated with the police.


    Tristan ensured that Jack Foster and Bryan were sent to the hospital immediately because they had lost so much blood that they could be in critical condition without prompt treatment.


    However, before Tristan returns to his car, Leo suddenly stops him.


    "Tristan, please wait," Leo comes after Tristan.


    "Ah, Leo, I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t see you." Tristan nods slightly at him. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It¡¯s okay. Earlier, I was busy speaking with the medic and a few police officers. I will handle everything here before heading to the hospital. However, please ensure they all receive the best treatment, Tristan, especially Jack and Sam," Leo said solemnly.


    Leo was so stressed to see all his friends now injured, even two of Jack¡¯s guards die on the spot. He was afraid if Jack¡¯s family knew about this, they might be worried and blame this country¡¯s security.


    "Sure, Leo, I¡¯ll do my best." Tristan had already ensured that the doctor at his hospital was prepared to receive three injured men, who were now heading to his hospital.


    "Thanks, man." Leo nodded, feeling slightly relieved.


    "Just one more thing, Leo. Make sure no news about this incident leaks to the public. I¡¯ll have my team monitor the internet news, but please ensure your staff does the same. I¡¯m worried someone might post about it on their social media."


    "I understand. I¡¯ll make sure that doesn¡¯t happen," Leo promised.


    "Alright, Leo. I need to go now. If you need anything, just ask Reid; he¡¯ll assist you." Tristan waved goodbye and promptly got into his car to comfort his wife.


    ***


    Tristan was worried about seeing his wife.


    Though she had turned her back to him, looking out of the car window, he could clearly hear her quiet sobs, and he noticed her shoulders trembling slightly.


    Seeing her so sad hurt his heart as if he were sharing in her pain.


    After taking a deep breath, Tristan placed his hand on her hair and stroked it gently, but his brow furrowed when he felt it was sticky. His hand stopped, frozen as he realized something. "Are you hurt?" he asked.


    Tristan recalled the report he heard when Max watched the CCTV footage. Max mentioned that his wife fell on her back and hit the concrete floor. It must have been the impact that caused her head injury, right?


    Bella turned to look at Tristan. His panicked and fearful gaze confused her. She shook her head quickly.


    "No, Bryan protected me perfectly. That crazy Andreas Corby had no chance of hurting me. What makes you think I¡¯m injured?"


    "Really? Thank God. I thought you were injured. Because I smell blood on your hair," Tristan leaned closer to check her hair more closely. He could smell the sharp scent of metallic from the blood on her hair. His heartbeat raced as he checked her scalp, but he didn¡¯t see any wounds¡ªno bruises, either.


    "Oh, it must¡¯ve been from Bryan¡¯s blood," Bella said sadly. "I feel grateful, terrified, and sad for him simultaneously. He courageously covers me from Andreas Corby¡¯s shots. And during that time, he vomited blood several times but still tried his best not to fall on me. I think some of his blood splattered and hit my hair. Oh God, I hope he¡¯s okay¡­"


    Her hands on her lap clenched tightly, trying to forget the frightening moment in her life.


    A wave of relief washed over Tristan as he listened to her words. Yet, when he noticed her somber expression, he felt a sense of sorrow for her.


    Trying to distract himself from her sadness, his gaze shifted to Bella¡¯s long coat, and his worry deepened when he saw bloodstains.


    Tristan took off his suit. "My dear, please take off your coat and put this on," he handed her his black suit.


    Only then did Bella realize that her long coat was stained with blood. Her hands trembled slightly as she took in the sight of the blood. Without hesitation, she removed the coat and slipped on Tristan¡¯s suit.


    She felt a sense of comfort as she wore Tristan¡¯s oversized suit. The shaking that had swallowed her moments ago began to subside, but the metallic scent of blood still hung heavily in the car. She wishes they could arrive faster at the hospital.


    Bella glanced at Tristan, wanting to say something, but she noticed him speaking on the phone. While she waited, she overheard him asking someone to arrange a room and provide new clothes for her to change into when they arrived at the hospital.


    Hearing this made Bella feel they were in sync; it was amusing that she was about to ask the same thing.


    "I asked my assistant to bring your clothes to the hospital. You can shower once we get there if you feel like it," Tristan said, gently rubbing her cheeks. Seeing the color return to her face relieved him.


    "Okay," Bella smiles back at him, but later, something crosses her mind. "Tristan, do you have any news about Sam?"


    Bella was anxious about Sam¡¯s condition. She still remembers earlier, when she was waiting for the ambulance to arrive, she cradled his head and attempted to talk to him, but he didn¡¯t respond. He opened his eyes briefly before losing consciousness completely.


    Tristan was about to answer her when a text message pinged on his phone. He quickly shared the news with Bella.


    "Carlos just sent a message. The first ambulance has arrived ¨C it¡¯s Sam¡¯s. I replied, asking him to make Sam a priority."


    "He¡¯s going to be okay, right?" Bella gripped Tristan¡¯s hand tightly.


    "I know he will be okay. He¡¯s the strongest man I know," Tristan smiled to reassure her.

 Chapter 565: Am I a Murderer?

    At Sinclair International Hospital, in the VIP wardroom, Bella finished her shower and changed out of her bloody clothes into something clean.


    She stepped out of the bathroom and found Tristan waiting for her in the living room. Her movement paused, and all the pain she had momentarily escaped swallowed her again.


    Bella approached him, trying to appear casual as if nothing had happened. However, her efforts failed; Tristan could see the sorrow reflected in her eyes.


    Tristan felt sorry for her but chose not to pry into the details of the incident. He decided to wait for her to share when she was ready.


    There was an urgent matter he needed to address now. Tristan stood up from his seat and approached her.


    "Dear, let¡¯s eat first. I heard from Leo that you haven¡¯t had anything to eat yet." He took her hand and led her to the dining table. "They just served this for us. Let¡¯s eat."


    Bella didn¡¯t refuse him. Even though she lacked an appetite, she knew she needed to eat, or she might collapse soon.


    However, after only half of the food she had eaten, Bella suddenly felt like she wanted to vomit, remembering the strange and scary feeling she had been harboring in her heart. The sense of satisfaction in killing Andreas Corby didn¡¯t feel right because now she felt like she was a sinner and deserved to be punished.


    She tried hard to suppress this feeling, telling herself, ¡¯You are not a murder, but you just tried to protect yourself...¡¯ but failed.


    That feeling kept appearing to torture her.


    Silently sighing, she put her cutlery on the plate and glanced at Tristan.


    Bella¡¯s worried gaze was enough to attract Tristan¡¯s attention. He also stopped eating and observed her for a while before asking, "Do you feel uncomfortable somewhere? Do you want to lie on the bed?" he offered.


    She shook her head and met his gaze.


    "Tristan, why do I feel like a murderer, a sinner? Do the police need me to come to their office? What happens to our children if they find out their mother killed someone?"


    Her words trembled as she expressed all the questions that were now filling her mind, torturing her inside.


    When Bella saw the shock in Tristan¡¯s gaze, it hurt her. She lowered her eyes and looked at another place, clenching her fist tightly.


    Tristan placed his hand on her back, rubbing it gently. "Of course, you are not. That person deserved it. He took people¡¯s lives and injured so many of you. What you did was just an attempt to protect yourself. You are not a sinner..."


    Bella knew that, but even after hearing Tristan¡¯s words, her inner self still blamed herself, frightened of her sin.


    "I took someone else¡¯s life. I killed someone. I am a murderer..." Her voice trembled, and she still couldn¡¯t bring herself to meet Tristan¡¯s gaze.


    Tristan was stunned. He had completely forgotten that his wife might also need a psychologist to get through this. After all, this was her first kill.


    He didn¡¯t want his wife to bear the burden of her suffering alone. He made her chair face him. He took her hands and rubbed them gently.


    "Can you see my eyes?" Tristan gently asked.


    Bella slowly lifted her head.


    "My wife, you are not defined by your thoughts. You are not ending someone¡¯s life; rather, you are aiding in God¡¯s punishment of that person to prevent him from taking another innocent life."


    He added, "Don¡¯t worry about anything else¡ªthe police won¡¯t ask you to come to their office; someone will handle that. They will come to you if they need to ask you something." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bella listened quietly as Tristan explained, and she gradually felt her mind lifting from the shadows; the dark smoke that once clouded her thoughts began to dissipate.


    "And our child? They will be proud of you. No one will judge you or speak about your thoughts or fears. You are their mother, their hero. And not just their hero, you are a hero to others too because you have helped others... right?" Tristan smiled.


    A barely noticed smile appeared on Bella¡¯s lips.


    "Please, you might have shot someone, but that¡¯s because you have to stop him from killing others. Be confident in yourself. You are not what you think: a killer. You are my brave and kind wife, Arabella Donovan." He finished, gently squeezing her hand before pulling her into a hug.


    "Thank you, Tristan..." Bella whispered. She needed to hear those words from him, and now she was starting to feel better.


    "Alright, continue your lunch. You want to see Jack and the others, right?" Tristan asked as he released her from his embrace.


    Seeing his wife nod quickly, he noticed that her look was no longer filled with confusion and fear. He felt relieved.


    ***


    Not long after, Tristan and Bella arrived in front of the surgery room¡ªa small lounge where the patient¡¯s family could wait.


    Bella noticed Leo and Dana already there, sitting on the couch with their backs turned to her.


    Some of Tristan¡¯s people in the corner appeared to be discussing something serious¡ªno one noticed their presence.


    She approached Leo and Dana, trying to maintain her composure, but her trembling hand betrayed her. Clenching her fists tightly, she greeted them, "Leo, Dana..."


    They both looked in her direction, surprised. "Bella, I¡¯m glad you finally made it," Leo said, standing up to face her.


    Leo added, "I wanted to visit your room but was afraid to leave this place; I worried that the doctor would look for Jack and Sam¡¯s family." He felt relieved to see she hadn¡¯t been injured after that man, Andreas Corby, had tried to kill them all.


    "It¡¯s fine. I also planned to come here, but I had to shower first. You know there was blood all over me, right?" Bella said with a faint smile as she glanced at Dana. Her smile vanished when she saw Dana¡¯s appearance.


    Worried about Dana¡¯s pregnancy, Bella turned her gaze back to Leo. "You need to care and pay more attention to your wife. She doesn¡¯t look well, Leo."

 Chapter 566: The News She Had Hoped For

    Leo glanced at Dana and was shocked to realize what Bella had just told him; his wife looked pale and appeared to be in pain. Earlier, his mind had been too distracted by thoughts of Jack and the others, causing him to forget about his pregnant wife.


    "I¡¯ll ask Tristan to provide a room for Dana. She must get some rest and eat something healthy for her and the baby inside her," Bella said anxiously.


    "Thank you, Bella. Please..." Leo replied.


    While Leo spoke to Dana, Bella approached Tristan. She requested a VIP room for Dana and an OB-GYN to check her condition.


    It didn¡¯t take long before a few nurses arrived to escort Dana for some rest and a few check-ups.


    Observing Leo¡¯s distressed expression as he watched Dana being taken away by the nurses, Bella smiled at him. "If you want to accompany her, that¡¯s fine. Go ahead. I¡¯ll wait here..." she offered, but Leo shook his head. He felt he needed to stay.


    "Don¡¯t worry. My husband owns this hospital. The hospital staff is well aware that Dana is his friend. So, they will provide extra care and prepare more people for Dana," Bella said, trying to reassure Leo. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hmm, I know. I just feel sorry for my wife. She was utterly shocked by what happened," Leo muttered, struggling to calm himself.


    After a brief silence, Bella broke the tension. "Does Jack¡¯s family know? What about Sam? Did you know his family?" she asked.


    Leo turned to her, shaking his head. "Jack warned me not to tell his family anything. And about Sam, no one knows where his family is..." He worries about Sam, especially since that man is the only one who has lost consciousness.


    Bella¡¯s expression turned gloomy again after she heard Leo mention Sam. Leo was right; Sam has always kept his family identity a secret. But if something happens to him, she knows how to look after Sam¡¯s family through Sean.


    "How about Stefan and Harper? Do they know about this?"


    "They know. This incident would have been beyond our control if it had happened in the public area. Because it happened on our property, Stefan managed to erase all the news on the internet about this incident. Oh, he also has notified Harper. We will need her here because she is close to Jack¡¯s family. I¡¯m worried that something might happen to Jack. So¡ª"


    Leo shrugs, unable to continue his words, too frightened that something might happen to Jack.


    Bella fell silent but agreed with Leo about notifying Harper. She was one of the founders of the RDF Group, and her presence here will provide significant help.


    "Leo..." Bella suddenly grabbed Leo¡¯s arms as the light above the surgery door turned green. "Are they done with the surgery?"


    "Hmm, I think so¡ª"


    Standing up from her seat, Bella saw the door swing open. Carlos Montana emerged, followed by his fellow doctors. His expression was not as cheerful as usual, making Bella tense up.


    "Let¡¯s hear the results," Bella mumbled as she approached Carlos and Tristan.


    Carlos pauses briefly to offer Bella a faint smile before turning to Tristan to explain the surgery results.


    "Mr. Foster and Bryan¡¯s condition is stable," Carlos reported. "The bullet has been successfully removed without any complications. However, they are still receiving blood transfusions because they lost a significant amount of blood at the scene and on the operating table. Overall, though, their condition remains stable. They will wake up soon once the anesthesia wears off and will be moved to the recovery room. You can visit them later."


    Carlos paused for a moment, looking at Bella with concern before continuing to explain Sam¡¯s condition.


    "The bullet that struck Sam¡¯s head was in a tricky location and has damaged a fraction of his brain. We have removed the bullet, but we need more time to observe and assess if the surgery has fixed and limited the damage." He halted again when he noticed Bella¡¯s eyes welling up with tears.


    "Sister-in-law, don¡¯t worry. Other than the scarring brain, Sam¡¯s overall is stable. He will live." Carlos added gently before shifting his gaze to Tristan. "Tristan, that¡¯s all I have for now. I will return with some updates."


    "Alright, much appreciated, Carlos. Thank you for your and your team¡¯s excellent work," Tristan replied, nodding to all the doctors to express his gratitude for their efforts.


    After watching the doctors return to the surgery room, Tristan led his wife to their VIP room.


    Meanwhile, Leo dragged his heavy feet to check on his wife. Even though he tried to remain optimistic about Sam¡¯s situation, his heart was filled with the worry he never had before.


    ***


    Today, Bella decided to stay at the hospital instead of returning home. She couldn¡¯t leave the hospital while Jack and the others were still unconscious after their surgeries.


    With no other option, she asked her mother and Noora to join her with the twins and Dax at the hospital. They took over almost an entire VVIP floor.


    Throughout the day, Bella anxiously awaited updates on Jack and the others¡¯ conditions. To keep her mind occupied, she played with her children.


    As evening approached, Tristan finally delivered the news she had hoped for: Jack and Bryan were awake.


    Bella visited Bryan first to thank him for what he had done for her. If it weren¡¯t for Bryan protecting her from Jack Corby¡¯s sudden attack, she might not have had the chance to see her husband and children again.


    With Tristan following closely behind her, Bella entered Bryan¡¯s room and saw Reid and Dylan standing by the bed. Seeing Bryan still asleep in bed, with bandages covering several areas of his body, made her feel sorry for him.


    Approaching the bed, Bryan and the others finally noticed her; they stopped chatting and moved aside to give her space to approach.


    "How¡¯s your condition, Bryan?" Tristan asked, standing on the side of the bed closer to him.


    "Boss, I feel healthy. Sorry to make you worry..." Bryan replied, forcing a smile as he attempted to sit up. Tristan, however, insisted that he stay lying down.


    Looking at Bryan, no longer trying to sit, Tristan continued, "Thank you for protecting my wife." He sincerely expressed his gratitude.


    Tristan would never stop being grateful to Bryan for shielding her from the bullet and risking his own life. However, something had been bothering him after he had seen the CCTV footage of the incident.


    ¡¯Why did Bryan react so slowly? He could take care of Andreas Corby when he took out his gun. But he did nothing.¡¯


    Before Tristan could ask, Bella spoke beside him, causing him to halt and glance at her.

 Chapter 567: Bella’s Gratitude

    "Bryan, thank you. Thank you¡­" Bella said in a trembling voice, tears streaming down her face. After trying to calm her emotions, she continued, "I will never forget your sacrifice and bravery, Bryan. Tristan and I are forever grateful and in debt to you."


    "Ma¡¯am, please don¡¯t say that. You and Boss Tristan don¡¯t owe me anything. Protecting you with my life is my ultimate duty," Bryan replied awkwardly, concerned to see her cry.


    "Still, Tristan and I are very grateful you didn¡¯t even think twice when you put your life in danger for me. Thank you so much, Bryan." Bella managed a smile through her tears. She would never forget everything Bryan had done for her; in her heart, she had already considered him her family member.


    Tristan, who saw his wife cry, put his hand on her waist and pulled her to stand close to her, afraid she might collapse again.


    Bryan said nothing but nodded, smiling warmly at her. However, his smile faded when Tristan asked, "Bryan, why did you react so slowly that time? Why didn¡¯t you act when Andreas Corby appeared on the scene?"


    This has troubled Bryan ever since it happened. If only he had heard what happened outside the car, he might have been able to stop Andreas Corby from shooting Jack and Sam. Unfortunately, he couldn¡¯t turn back time to correct his mistake.


    "Sir, before the incident, Madam and the others were only a few meters away from the car. I saw Sam with them, and it made me let my guard down while testing the new car¡¯s capabilities..." Bryan sighed deeply as he recounted his oversight.


    He continued, "At that moment, the soundproof function was activated, so I couldn¡¯t hear anything from outside, even when the man fired his first bullet. I didn¡¯t have much time to react when I realized something was wrong. All I could do was press the ¡¯Emergency Button¡¯ and throw myself in front of Madam to shield her, as that man was aiming a gun at her."


    Tristan no longer asked Bryan any further questions because he had already guessed what happened. He only wanted to hear it directly from Bryan.


    Bella, who was listening to their conversation, was stunned. She hadn¡¯t considered the reasons behind Bryan¡¯s inaction. Still, after hearing his explanation, she could understand why he hadn¡¯t reacted more quickly.


    ¡¯Gosh! That stupid car!¡¯ Bella couldn¡¯t help but blame the vehicle.


    Sam might not have been in critical condition if they had used their usual car. Bryan would have had a better chance to react and subdue Andreas Corby.


    After talking with Bryan for a few more minutes, Bella finally excused herself to visit Jack.


    ***


    In Jack¡¯s wardroom,


    Bella was no longer surprised to see Jack looking healthy; he was already sitting on the bed and looked serious as he spoke with Leo, who sat on the chair by the bed.


    Despite her concern about Sam, who still hadn¡¯t woken up, Bella couldn¡¯t hide her gratitude for Jack¡¯s condition.


    As Bella and Tristan approached them, she said, "I¡¯m glad you¡¯re okay, boss."


    Jack smiled at Bella as he embraced her warmly.


    "Oh, stop crying over me. I¡¯m not going to die yet, my friend," Jack said, trying to cheer her up after noticing her damp eyes.


    Bella shook her head at his words. "I won¡¯t let you die, Jack. Don¡¯t worry about it."


    Jack felt relieved to see her smile returning to her eyes, so different from when he had seen her crying a lot after knowing Sam had a severe injury.


    "Yeah, I know that, Bella. Thanks to you, we all could survive," Jack sincerely expressed his gratitude. He couldn¡¯t imagine what would have happened if she hadn¡¯t killed that bastard Andreas Corby.


    "Ugh, can¡¯t we skip talking about that?"


    "Sure. Where have you been? Why did you just arrive now?" Jack asked, trying to change the subject.


    "I visited Bryan," Bella replied, settling into the chair by the bed after Leo gestured for her to sit.


    Suddenly, Jack¡¯s expression tensed at the mention of Bryan. He was curious to hear more since Leo hadn¡¯t updated him. "How is he?"


    "He¡¯s fine. He¡¯s awake now but still can¡¯t sit up properly like you," Bella said.


    "I¡¯m glad he¡¯s alright. That man really does his job well as your bodyguard."


    Bella¡¯s expression darkened. Whenever they discussed that incident, the memories flooded back.


    "Yeah, he¡¯s amazing," Bella said, managing a bitter smile. Then, as if remembering something important, she added, "Jack, about your bodyguard, I¡¯m sorry..." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thanks..." Jack¡¯s face turns dark, recalling two of his bodyguards died.


    "But why weren¡¯t they with you at the time? Why did they only show up after Andreas Corby shot you!?"


    Another small sigh escaped Jack¡¯s lips as he stared at Bella before responding.


    "They were waiting in the car, ready to follow us. This was my mistake. I thought I would be safe here, with no threats lurking around. You know that not many people know that RDF has business here, right?"


    "Yeah, I know..." Bella replied.


    "My visit to this country wasn¡¯t scheduled as part of the company agenda; it was to attend Harper¡¯s wedding for personal reasons. If I recall correctly, only my trusted assistant knows I¡¯m here," Jack explained, sharing his suspicions about someone leaking his schedule to Andreas Corby.


    "And how did Andreas find out you were here?" Tristan interjected, stepping forward from behind Bella.


    Jack turned to Tristan.


    "I¡¯ve already asked Stefan to investigate. I¡¯m sure someone in the office leaked my agenda." Jack took a deep sigh, trying to think of the person.


    Tristan fell silent, and Bella also stopped asking about it.


    They shifted their conversation to Sam¡¯s condition, which had not shown any significant changes so far, which stressed them all.


    Not long after, when Bella and Tristan were saying goodbye and preparing to return to their room, the door to Jack¡¯s room suddenly opened. Harper rushed in, her face pale and tears welling in her eyes, followed closely by Sean.


    Everyone in the room was shocked that she had arrived in the country so soon.


    "Harper, Sean¡ª"

 Chapter 568: This is The Best I Could Ask For

    Two weeks later.


    After the shooting incident, Bella rarely left her house. She only went outside when she visited the hospital. Tristan or Geoffrey would accompany her wherever she went. Like today, Geoffrey sits beside the driver as they head to the hospital to see Sam.


    After Sam finally awakened from his brief coma, Bella, Harper, and Leo visited him almost every day.


    Sam was recovering well, but his healing process was taking longer than expected, preventing him from engaging in his everyday activities. To keep him company and uplift his spirits, the three of them made it their daily schedule to cheer him up, especially since Sam had no family.


    They learned from Sean Spencer about Sam¡¯s tragic past; his entire family had been killed when he was still serving in the military. This loss was one of the reasons he left the army, moved to the USA, and ultimately met Jack.


    Understanding his background, Bella and the others wanted to support him. Still, in the end, Sam chooses to stay with Harper and Sean¡¯s family because he feels a stronger connection with Sean. Perhaps camaraderie between soldiers. This bond also allowed him to reconnect with his former colleagues from the military.


    As for Jack, just a few days after the incident, his father discovered what had happened and sent a private jet to bring him back to the US for continued medical treatment.


    Meanwhile, Bryan was discharged from the hospital a week ago and stayed on Tristan¡¯s property under the care of Tristan¡¯s most trusted medical staff to recover more quickly. Since his injuries are not as severe as Sam¡¯s, he may return to work with Tristan soon, although he won¡¯t guard Bella for now.


    ...


    Heading to the VIP wardroom on the 20th floor, Bella was surprised to encounter Harper, who had just emerged from the other elevator.


    "Harper?"


    "Oh, Bella! I thought you had already arrived!" Harper said as she rushed to Bella. They linked their arms together, making their way to Sam¡¯s room.


    "Why did you come so early? Didn¡¯t you say you would come in the afternoon after work?" Bella smiled, happy to see Harper.


    "There¡¯s a family event tonight, so I decided to come over now. I missed you anyway," Harper giggled as they entered Sam¡¯s bedroom.


    Sam¡¯s smile widened upon seeing them enter, mainly as they carried various shopping bags.


    "Sam! You look very healthy! I brought your favorite chocolates from Europe!" Harper shouted, placing several boxes of chocolates on the table beside the bed before settling on the edge of the hospital bed. She took one box and slowly opened it.


    "Oh my goodness, Harper Reed, you don¡¯t have to shout like that. Even though one of Sam¡¯s ears isn¡¯t working, he can still hear you," Bella shook her head while putting fresh fruits in the fridge and glancing at Sam. "Isn¡¯t that right, Sam?"


    Sam smiled at Bella before looking at Harper, who had already opened the box of chocolates.


    "That¡¯s right, I can still hear you, even if you speak normally. No need to shout," Sam said softly as he glanced at Geoffrey sitting on the couch. "Geoffrey, thank you for coming by to see me. I¡¯m glad to see you, man..."


    Harper shrugged and began to eat a cranberry chocolate.


    Geoffrey lifted his head from the magazine in his hand and glanced at Sam. "I¡¯m not visiting you, Sam. I¡¯m just accompanying my madam," he replied casually before returning to his magazine.


    Bella, who overheard Geoffrey¡¯s words, chuckled and settled on the other side of Sam¡¯s bed.


    "How¡¯s your walk therapy going today, Sam?" Bella asked curiously.


    Sam¡¯s leg had been seriously injured, hitting a vital bone, which made it challenging for him to walk normally. However, his therapist emphasized that with hard work, he could eventually walk again without any aid.


    "He tortured me, but it¡¯s fine. As long as I can run again and kick someone else¡¯s butt, I will stick with my therapist," Sam replied.


    "How about your eye?" Harper asked before popping another piece of chocolate into her mouth.


    "Honestly, there¡¯s no hope for my right eye and ear. They just don¡¯t work anymore," Sam replied bitterly. Despite this, he felt grateful for being alive. Losing one eye and hearing in one ear didn¡¯t seem like a big deal to him. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I¡¯m sorry to hear that, Sam. But don¡¯t be too down about it; at least you can still see and hear with the other ones, right?" Harper attempted to cheer him up.


    "I¡¯m not down, boss. I¡¯m grateful that God allows me to be alive and spend time with all of you. This is the best I could ask for," Sam said with a smile. However, his expression slowly faded as he fixed his gaze on the chocolate box in Harper¡¯s lap.


    Before Harper could respond, Sam chuckled, narrowing his eyes at her. "Boss Harper, isn¡¯t that chocolate for me? Why are you eating it? My God, you¡¯ve almost finished the whole box..."


    Bella watched as Harper froze, her hands suspended in the air, just moments before she popped a piece of chocolate into her mouth. Unable to contain her laughter, Bella found her best friend¡¯s expression comical as she was caught red-handed stealing Sam¡¯s chocolate.


    "Harper, Harper¡­ you¡¯re so hilarious, my friend," Bella giggled.


    Harper quickly finished the chocolate in her hand, glaring at Bella before shifting her gaze to Sam.


    With a smile, she answered Sam, "Well, Sam, this is my chocolate. Yours are the four boxes over there." She pointed to the remaining boxes on the bedside table.


    Sam and Bella exchanged amused glances, shaking their heads at Harper¡¯s flimsy excuse.


    However, a moment later, Bella¡¯s expression turned to one of surprise as she recalled a crucial detail. She remembered that her best friend had never liked sweets or chocolate because she was strict about maintaining her weight.


    Yet now, Harper was nearly finished crunching a box of Belgian dark chocolates in just a few minutes.


    Narrowing her eyes at Harper while suppressing a smile, Bella asked, "Harper Reed, are you pregnant?"


    Harper was shocked to hear Bella¡¯s question. "Pregnant?" she repeated, trembling.


    Bella nodded. "Have you ever taken a test? When was your last period?" she asked.


    Instantly, Harper felt all the blood drain from her face as she realized she had been late for three weeks now.

 Chapter 569: The Best Decision For Their Future (END)

    November 25.


    "Happy Birthday, Tristan Sinclair¡­" Bella leaned closer, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing his cheek repeatedly.


    Tristan smiled, keeping his eyes on the road as he tightened his grip on the steering wheel.


    "You¡¯ve already said that countless times, dear."


    "I know! And you¡¯ll hear me say those words all day until today ends," she giggled.


    Bella showered him with a few more kisses before returning to her seat, not wanting to distract him while driving.


    "Hubby, can you tell me where we¡¯re going now?" Bella glanced at him again, noticing that the route was unfamiliar.


    "I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s a secret!" A playful smile appeared on his lips as he saw her roll her eyes.


    Bella could hardly believe it. That morning, after celebrating Tristan¡¯s birthday at home with family, he announced they would go on a honeymoon¡ªjust the two of them. She was shocked and unprepared because she knew nothing about it.


    Bella was even more surprised to learn that her entire family, including Dax, was already aware of her honeymoon plans and had helped Tristan make them happen. She was left speechless by their grand scheme but thrilled with happiness, eagerly anticipating what was to come.


    Before long, Bella recognized their direction.


    "Oh, I know this place," she said, turning to Tristan. "Are we going to ride in a helicopter?"


    "Hmm, we are¡ª"


    Bella felt defeated by Tristan¡¯s brief response. Not wanting to press further, she decided to keep silent and follow him wherever he led.


    ...


    Soon, they were flying above the city, and she realized they were heading to the North City¡ªthe coldest place in the nation.


    ¡¯Why did you choose a cold destination for our honeymoon, Tristan?¡¯ Bella wondered. ¡¯Did he plan to keep me indoors all day?¡¯ She felt her cheeks warm as she imagined her husband would keep her in the bedroom all day. Shaking her head lightly, she pushed aside her wild thoughts.


    During their journey to their destination, Bella tried to recall everything that had happened in the years since she returned to the country and reunited with her husband, Tristan.


    So much had happened with her family and close friends. They endured many hardships together, but they also shared countless joys. Bella would never complain about what God had given her in this life.


    All the hardships she had experienced were now behind her, and a bright and beautiful future awaited her. With Tristan always by her side, she felt no fear about what lay ahead.


    ¡¯Bella, you did it! You finally did it...¡¯ she thought, feeling a deep pride for the journey that had brought her to this happy moment.


    She smiled silently while squeezing Tristan¡¯s hand tightly, causing him to turn and look at her with concern, worried that she might be frightened by the helicopter ride.


    "Are you okay?" Tristan spoke into the headset mic. "Are you uncomfortable? No worries; we¡¯ll arrive soon."


    Bella nodded and gave him a thumbs-up. Although she wasn¡¯t fond of flying in a helicopter, having Tristan by her side made her feel safe.


    After a smooth flight, the helicopter finally landed in a mountainous area. The helipad is near a large building.


    They immediately got into a black sedan waiting for them, and the car sped toward the white building Bella had seen from above earlier.


    When Bella saw the name of the building in front of the white wall fence, her expression changed. She frowned and looked at Tristan.


    "Tristan, why did you bring me to this mental hospital?" she asked.


    Tristan turned to her with a thin smile, but he didn¡¯t say a word, adding to Bella¡¯s confusion.


    "Tristan, please don¡¯t confuse and scare me like this. Why are we here?" Bella asked again.


    But then, she recalled something, and the fear that had wrapped around her began to dissipate.


    "Ah, we stopped by here so I could accompany you to work before we head to our honeymoon location, right?"


    That was all Bella could think about; their honeymoon destination was near the Sinclair Group¡¯s mental hospital area, so it made sense that Tristan brought her here¡ªhe might have some business to attend to.


    "You¡¯ll see later..." was all Tristan said as they walked toward the hospital entrance.


    Several hospital officials who were aware of his visit greeted Tristan. Still, he asked them to leave him alone with his wife.


    Bella felt confused again when she realized this was not a work visit; Tristan had brought her here for another reason.


    But the question is, why? Who did he want to see?


    Giving up on trying to guess, Bella simply followed Tristan as he walked toward the expansive back garden, which offered a stunning view of the mountains. The temperature was quite chilly, as it was now autumn.


    Even though the air was cold, the beauty of the autumn colors from the surrounding trees made people forget the chilly temperature.


    For a moment, Bella tried to appreciate the stunning scenery before her. Still, Tristan¡¯s steps eventually stopped, prompting her to halt beside him.


    She looked up and was taken aback by Tristan¡¯s difficult-to-describe expression. His eyes seemed sad and pitiful as they gazed in a specific direction.


    Curious about what made her husband look so gloomy, Bella followed his line of sight and was shocked to see the woman she despised the most sitting on a wooden garden bench just a few meters away.


    ¡¯Is that Jessica? W-Why is she here?¡¯


    Bella¡¯s heart tightened at the sight of Jessica. It had been so long since she last saw her or even heard any news about her.


    Countless questions flooded her mind, but one stood out. ¡¯Does Jessica have a severe mental health issue? Is that why she¡¯s here?¡¯ The thought alone made her tense up.


    She observed Jessica, who always appeared arrogant, sitting on a park bench, talking to herself and holding a doll. All the confusion in Bella¡¯s mind began to make sense.


    ¡¯Oh my God! Jessica has a severe mental health problem. Seriously?¡¯


    Taking a deep breath, she asked Tristan, "T-Tristan... Why is your mother here? Is her mental health in some kind of sickness?"


    Tristan smiled slightly as he turned his head toward Bella and explained, "Hmm, she lost all her memories and now behaves like a three-year-old child."


    Bella was at a loss for words upon hearing this.


    They looked at Jessica again. She was still sitting there, laughing and giggling as if she were talking to an imaginary friend.


    "Since when has she been like this?" Bella finally asked, managing to control her shock at Jessica¡¯s condition.


    "Since returning from my father¡¯s grave last year. She started to change¡­" Tristan took a deep breath before continuing. "Her maid called me and explained everything. So, I arranged for her to stay in this place for her safety and as my last filial duty as her son."


    Tristan paused for a moment, looking at Bella with concern. "I hope you don¡¯t mind if I help her¡­?"


    Bella immediately shook her head. "No, I don¡¯t mind. I¡¯m glad you helped and provided her with a proper place to stay. Here, she won¡¯t be alone and in danger since many medical personnel will take care of her."


    Even though Bella harbored strong feelings of resentment toward Jessica, she couldn¡¯t ignore the fact that Jessica was the one who had given birth to her husband.


    "Thank you, Bella," Tristan said, pulling her into his arms while glancing at her mother. "I¡¯m so glad to hear that from you. All this time, I was afraid to be honest with you about what I did to her, worried that you would hate me for helping her. But before we head to our honeymoon destination on my birthday, I no longer want to hide it from you. I want you to see this... in person."


    Bella looked up at Tristan, a smile spreading across her face as she appreciated him finally expressing his feelings about his mother¡ªa topic he rarely discussed.


    "Tristan, I¡¯m glad you brought me here and shared your deep feelings about her. Thank you so much..."


    Tristan smiled wider for the first time since they arrived at this place, and his sadness faded.


    "Alright, let¡¯s go to our honeymoon destination. You¡¯ll be happy to know where we¡¯re headed," he said, a mysterious grin appearing on his lips.


    Bella¡¯s smile widened, and her cheeks warmed as she imagined where this man would take her for their romantic honeymoon, just the two of them.


    "Let¡¯s go!" Bella replied happily.


    ...


    As Bella walked beside Tristan toward the hospital entrance, she heard a buzzing sound from her coat pocket. She quickly checked her cell phone and was shocked to see a text from Stefan. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her steps came to a halt, prompting Tristan to stop as well.


    "What¡¯s wrong?" Tristan asked, a look of concern crossing his face as he noticed her intently reading something on her phone.


    "Did you do it?" Bella asked, a frown forming on her lips.


    "Do what?" Tristan replied, confusion heard in his voice.


    Without answering, Bella handed her phone to him.


    Though puzzled, Tristan took the phone and read the article titled:


    [Marco Lombardi Declared Dead in His Cell Due to Heart Attack.]


    "Did you do it?" Bella repeated.


    After returning the phone to her, Tristan smiled faintly and encouraged her to continue walking to the car.


    "I¡¯ll do anything for the safety of my family..." he said calmly, opening the car door for her.


    Bella remained silent but smiled back at him. He was right¡ªthis was the best decision for their future.


    [END]


    ***


    Author notes:


    ***


    After ten months of writing without a single day off, I am thrilled to announce that this book is finally finished.


    I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your support throughout this journey. I couldn¡¯t have done it without you. I hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I enjoyed writing the story of Bella and Tristan.


    Once again, thank you so much!


    As this book ends, another story is already forming in my mind. I¡¯m excited to share that my new book has been published on NovelFire.


    I invite you to check out the new story featuring my next couple, Arabella Donovan (Abby) and Sawyer Jones (Our hidden tycoon).


    New book details:


    Contemporary Romance genre


    Title: Betrayed By Fiance, Embraced By Hidden Tycoon


    ____


    Synopsis:


    Abigail Snow accidentally caught her fianc¨¦ being intimate with her sister. She learned that her fianc¨¦ had only used her to advance his business and had never truly loved her.


    Heartbroken, Abigail called off the engagement and left everything behind to start a new life with nothing. At her lowest point, she met Sawyer, a hidden tycoon who helped her rebuild her life and seek justice against those who made her suffer.


    As Abigail begins to fall in love with Sawyer, his childhood sweetheart reappears, causing doubt and confusion for her.


    ____


    Thank you all.


    Love,


    PurpleLight


    Ps: I also want to thank my fellow Ahjumma writers, who have always supported me throughout this journey.