ã€ŠThe CEO&#x27;s Wife Is Super Charmingã€‹


 Chapter 1: Prologue

    <h4>Chapter 1: Prologue</h4>

    "Elliana Lyle, do you have a death wish?"

    Shane Southwell¡¯s voice was deep, his handsome face appeared particrly chilling under the chandelier, and the murderous intent in his dark eyes was unmistakable.

    His distinctly jointed hand clutched a crystal-clear vase, seemingly ready to smash it onto Elliana Lyle¡¯s forehead at any moment.

    Ellianay on the ground, her ears ringing, her face still stinging painfully from the p she just received from the man.

    Her lower abdomen had collided with the corner of the sofa, and the dull pain made it difficult for her to endure, even her voice trembled.

    Elliana shook her head: "No... I didn¡¯t... didn¡¯t... I didn¡¯t..."

    The butler stood cautiously to the side, asionally lowering his gaze to sneak a nce at Elliana.

    No one in this house dared to speak for the young mistress who had made a mistake, and all the servants uniformly bowed their heads silently.

    The chandelier in the living room was so bright it hurt the eyes. Elliana cautiously lifted her head, sweat beading on her forehead and dampening her bangs.

    Her almond-shaped eyes were filled with fear.

    Seeing the man say nothing, she tried to shake her head and struggled to raise half her body, stammering in exnation: "I didn¡¯t, I didn¡¯t hurt her. She called me to her house. She said... she said there¡¯s something from you for me."

    Just this morning, Eleanor Llyod had called Elliana.

    On the other end, Eleanor said she decided to let go of Shane Southwell, saying she had something of Shane¡¯s to return to her, asking her toe and get it.

    Eleanor was Shane¡¯s first love and the object of her jealousy.

    She knew Shane loved Eleanor and knew she couldn¡¯tpare to Eleanor. She admitted she felt happy when Eleanor said she wanted to let go.

    Butter when Eleanor got hurt, she knew nothing about it. She absolutely didn¡¯t have the courage to hurt Eleanor.

    "Ha, you say you didn¡¯t, so you didn¡¯t?" The man¡¯s eyes were chillingly cold, as if looking at someone about to die. Such a gaze made Elliana¡¯s spine shiver.

    "Really, I didn¡¯t... Husband, I didn¡¯t..." Suddenly, Elliana felt a piercing pain in her belly, clutching her abdomen, her voice became as soft as a mosquito¡¯s: "My stomach hurts... I hurt..."

    "Hurt? Ha! Do you hurt more than Eleanor?" Shane Southwell sneered, his gaze turning sinister, and truly threw the vase at Elliana.

    Elliana instinctively reached out to block it, her pale hand immediately bruised, the vase ricocheted off,nding on the ground with a buzzing sound.

    "No, I only went today..." Elliana braced against the pain, lifted her chin to look up at Shane, wanting to exin, but hesitated under Shane¡¯s intimidating gaze, too scared to speak.

    She had gone to Eleanor¡¯s house today, took nothing, was mocked by Eleanor, and then was chased away.

    Shane Southwell stared intently at the person on the ground, gritting his teeth with hatred, his handsome face distorted with anger.

    He hated this woman who looked pitiful, wished he could kill her now, if not for Elliana¡¯s family¡¯s wealth, he wouldn¡¯t have married her.

    Rumble~

    The muffled sound of thunder outside broke the current stalemate, Shane Southwell slowly exhaled, turning his back to Elliana, his voice exceptionally indifferent: "Eleanor needs peace and quiet, you, get out!"

    "Wha... what?" Elliana shook her head tremblingly, her mouth too dry to speak, why, why...

    "Don¡¯t make me say it a second time! Get out!"

    "No... no! I didn¡¯t... I really didn¡¯t... please believe me! Believe me..."

    At this moment, the physical pain paled inparison to the coldness of Shane¡¯s words.

    The man went upstairs resolutely without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Eleanor had been brought back long ago, she was upstairs now!

    "Believe me... believe me! I¡¯m begging you to believe me..."

    Elliana propped herself up with her hands, trying to crawl over to beg the man, but was stopped by the butler.

    "Madam, let me help you up." The butler said as he helped Elliana up from the ground, though ¡¯helping¡¯ might as well have been ¡¯forcibly pulling her up¡¯.

    "Shane Southwell! I didn¡¯t! I didn¡¯t¡ª!" Elliana used herst ounce of strength to exin, but appeared so weak and powerless in front of everyone.

    The butler looked at Elliana, somewhat disdainfully said: "Madam, the young master asked you to leave, please don¡¯t make it difficult for us."

    Just as she was pushed out the door, she heard the heavy sound of the door closing behind her.

    Elliana stood dazedly, her feet like they were nailed to the ground, like a withered tree, her face as pale as paper.

    After a long time, she struggled to move her feet, as heavy as lead, her stumbling footsteps appearing shaky in the gust of wind.

    Living in this house for three years, this wasn¡¯t the first time Shane Southwell had driven her out.

    She turned her head to look at the flower bed in the distance, where a Volkswagen was parked, she didn¡¯t know who owned the car, but almost every time she was driven out, she would see it.

    Whenever the car wasn¡¯t there, it was always followed by the maning, every time when she had been humiliated.

    He would look at her grimly, silently, as if... watching her joke.

    Yet tonight, this car was there.

    Which meant... that man probably wouldn¡¯t being to watch her debacle.

    Hah, should sheugh that such a pathetic state wasn¡¯t seen by anyone?

    At that moment, a strong wind blew, making Elliana stagger, even the heavens seemed to bully her.

    Facing the torrential rain, Elliana walked aimlessly forward, she held back her tears, this time, she wouldn¡¯t squat at the door like a dog begging Shane Southwell to let her in.

    To speak of it, she was like a stray dog, her parents died in a car ident, their estate fell to her, so... she could only cling tightly to Shane Southwell.

    Married for three years... Shane Southwell never touched her, at first saying she was unwell, always giving her supplements.

    But she grew weaker and weaker.

    She knew, she knew... it turned out Eleanor was telling the truth.

    Elliana, oh Elliana! Shane Southwell never gave you a second nce before, why did you believe he loved you, that¡¯s why he married you?

    "I was wrong..."

    The voice was drowned by wind and rain, even she couldn¡¯t hear it clearly.

    Not knowing how long she walked, she just felt all-epassing darkness swallow everything before her, a pallid figure like pear blossoms fell on the side of the road.

    The fragile life seemed like a trickle, slowly dissipating from her body, as if a stick of sandalwood continuously blown is rapidly reduced to ashes.

    In the haziness, there was the sound of screeching brakes, someone ran over, Elliana felt someone pick her up, the movements were so cautious.

    A summer scent filled her nose, she could feel the person¡¯s tremble, feel the drops of warmth spreading on her cold cheeks.

    This embrace was so warm, Elliana instinctively wanted to hide in it, but she didn¡¯t have the strength to lift her hand.

    "Elliana! Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯ll take you home, I¡¯ll never let go again!"

    It¡¯s Norman Bet!

    Elliana always thought Norman Bet came just to watch her fail, always wore a cold face, never smiled at her, sometimes forcibly taking her away, she never heard Norman speak with such tension, fear.

    She wanted so much to open her eyes and see him again, but her almond eyes opened and closed, unable to see the face before her, gradually, the pain ebbed, the jade-white wrist slumping down.

    The man watched helplessly as that vibrant life disappeared from his embrace.

    At this moment, the man holding Elliana in the storm rain became at a loss.

    "No... don¡¯t! Don¡¯t! Ah!!!" That trembling voice, filled with heartbroken grief!

 Chapter 2 - 1: Rebirth

    <h4>Chapter 2: Chapter 1: Rebirth</h4>

    Knock, knock knock!

    "Miss Lyle, it¡¯s Lana. I¡¯ve brought your breakfast."

    On the soft bed inside, nestled a petite figure. She frowned slightly, seemingly displeased with the noise outside. After several knocks, the person on the bed finally woke up.

    As she opened her sleepy eyes, what she saw first was the mushroommp on the bedside table, under which a white rabbit was hugging a carrot!

    Was she dreaming?

    "Miss Lyle? Are you awake? May Ie in?"

    The clear and gentle voice from outside brought Elliana Lyle back to reality. It sounded like Lana, and this was... Norman Bet¡¯s vi!

    Elliana woke up almost instantly, abruptly throwing off the quilt. She was wearing white pajamas with rabbit ears and hurriedly reached for the phone on the bedside table.

    Could it be that Norman brought her back to the Bet Family? She opened her phone, and the date and time appeared before her eyes.

    July 20, 2019.

    2019? She had gone back three years!

    Memories from the past flooded her mind. Elliana remembered that at this time, she was forced by her parents toe to the Bet Family to get along well with Norman Bet, to whom she was betrothed!

    Back then, she extremely disliked Norman Bet, even hated him! Aftering to this vi, she locked herself in, and Norman, knowing she disliked him, never disturbed her.

    "Miss Lyle? It¡¯s Lana. May Ie in?" Lana patiently knocked on the door from outside, repeating her words over and over; it seemed to be her daily task ever since Elliana arrived.

    She was still being called outside. Elliana got out of bed and ran barefoot to open the door!

    Seeing her, Lana¡¯s face, both beautiful and gentle, carried a hint of a smile. Dressed in a uniform light green short sleeve top and gray wide-leg pants, Lana looked quite amiable.

    "Good morning, Miss Lyle."

    Lana always smiled with her eyes curved. Elliana liked this girl from the bottom of her heart, perhaps because of Norman; that care Lana showed was so thoughtful.

    "Morning." Elliana smiled at Lana, a somewhat bitter smile. She realized she hadn¡¯t smiled in so long and felt a bit unustomed.

    Holding a bowl of wontons, Lana was somewhat surprised; even her smile froze. Elliana had almost never shown her a friendly face, let alone greeted her, both startling and surprising Lana.

    Through Lana, Elliana saw the redwood railing behind her. She bit her lip as if making a decision and exhaled.

    After seemingly preparing herself psychologically, she carefully tiptoed to the edge of the redwood railing, holding onto it while looking down. As expected, Norman Bet was sitting on the sofa there.

    He was in a ck bespoke suit, meticulous, without a single crease. Long legs crossed, left hand holding a cup of coffee, and the right hand browsing something on aptop.

    At this moment, Norman Bet sensed something unusual, feeling a burning gaze on him. When he looked up to the direction of the gaze, they unexpectedly locked eyes.

    On Norman Bet¡¯s handsome face, his features were well-defined and sharp, with striking eyebrows under which shone eyes bright as stars, deep like a cold pool.

    "Morning, you¡¯re up." Norman Bet¡¯s face was expressionless; his greeting to Elliana had a distant, indifferent tone, deep and maic.

    At this moment, Elliana couldn¡¯t hold back anymore. Her hands released the railing, her hair swung forming an arc as she turned and ran toward the redwood staircase, the sound of her hurried footsteps echoing, showing her urgency.

    Elliana¡¯s heart was racing; she was eager to get closer to him.

    Sitting on the leather sofa, Norman Bet¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, his pupils dted, he put down his cup and quickly stood up, striding to the staircase in a few steps, and in that moment, Elliana crashed into Norman Bet¡¯s solid chest.

    As she caught a whiff of that familiar elegant lotus fragrance, Elliana¡¯s eyes reddened, sour tears burst forth, like strands of lingering thread wrapping around the person before her.

    In the past, how blind had she been to ignore Norman Bet¡¯s goodness, hurting him deeply.

    Elliana¡¯s teary almond eyes, even her little red lips quivered, making her appear both adorable and pitiful. Norman Bet¡¯s heart felt as if it had been gripped, surprised, worried, and somewhat at a loss.

    "Why are you crying?" Instinctively, Norman Bet wanted to reach out to pat the little girl¡¯s head, but his hand paused mid-air and then withdrew.

    "Oooh..."

    The little girl in his arms said nothing, burying her face in his chest, crying harder, her small hands clutching his waist tightly, as if once released, he would run away.

    I¡¯m sorry... I¡¯m sorry...

    In Elliana¡¯s heart, this was the only phrase, repeated countless times silently; she felt no matter how many times she said it, it couldn¡¯t make up for anything.

    This scene was witnessed by everyone inside, especially Butler Lewis and Lana, whose jaws nearly dropped in shock; could Miss Lyle have changed her nature? She had always avoided seeing their young master, and today, she initiated an embrace!

    The more Elliana acted this way, the more panicked Norman Bet felt. His long, clean fingers gently patted the back of the person in his arms, ncing down to see her barefoot, peach-pink toes on the cold marble floor.

    Though it was midsummer, the air-conditioned room made the floor somewhat chilly. Norman Bet could only scoop her up in his arms, his chin feeling the warmth of Elliana¡¯s head, her soft hair like silk.

    "Had a nightmare?" Norman Bet¡¯s voice softened significantly.

    "Ooooh..." Elliana, choking with sobs, clung to Norman Bet¡¯s neck. She wanted to say so much, but the words were too many to find a starting point.

    Seeing her not speaking, only crying, Norman Bet didn¡¯t press her, just quietly continued to stroke her back.

    Elliana, crying to the point of oxygen deprivation, wiped her tears on the man¡¯s neck. ncing sideways, she noticed everyone watching them, everyone looking like spectators at a show, with mischievous smiles in their eyes.

    Elliana felt a bit embarrassed when suddenly, she remembered something. The slight sound of her sniffing abruptly stopped! Today was July 20th! Which meant... it was the day her parents had their car ident!

    "Norman Bet, take me home, please take me home?" Elliana lifted her head from Norman Bet¡¯s neck, her face wet with tears, even her nose tip red. She stared at Norman Bet, a pleading look in her eyes.

    So... she just wanted to leave.

    Norman Bet¡¯s deep eyes dimmed, ncing away, no longer looking at the person who caused him heartache, just nodding slightly, his voice betraying no emotion: "Okay! I¡¯ll take you home, but put your shoes on first."

    As they stepped out the door, a wave of heat hit, and a thinyer of mist formed on Elliana¡¯s forehead. She hadn¡¯t tidied herself up, still in silky rabbit pajamas, with pink bunny slippers on her feet. She was in a hurry to go back, afraid she wouldn¡¯t make it in time.

    All the way, sitting in the front passenger seat, Elliana picked at her fingernails, her expression tense and anxious.

    All of this was noted by Norman Bet. Perhaps, he thought, he shouldn¡¯t use the betrothal agreement to bind her. Perhaps ending the engagement would make her happy, but... he was reluctant to let go.

 Chapter 3 - 2: Authority

    <h4>Chapter 3: Chapter 2: Authority</h4>

    ¨D¨D¨DLyle Household.

    This is a beautifully decoratedrge vi with a blend of Chinese and Western styles, hidden in the suburbs, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

    At the entrance, Uncle Leo was holding some fresh flowers to go inside. He turned his head towards the iron gate upon hearing a car stop, and saw a cute girl getting out of the car, realizing it was the young miss returning home.

    Elliana Lyle rushed inside in a hurry. Uncle Leo¡¯s friendly face broke into a smile, "Good morning, Miss."

    "Morning, Uncle Leo!" Elliana casually greeted and dashed into the house without a care.

    Norman Bet hadn¡¯t gotten out of the car. Watching the petite figure disappear through the Lyle household door, he smiled wryly. Was she really in such a hurry? She even forgot her phone.

    At this moment, Elliana charged into the house. It seemed her parents had already finished breakfast. They were sitting on the couch: her gentle and intellectual mother flipping through a magazine, and her father, with an air of seriousness, reading the newspaper while sipping red tea.

    Both were stunned to see Elliana.

    Elliana nced at the cab just by the entrance and had a sudden idea. It had all the car keys in the house!

    Ignoring the curious looks from everyone inside, Elliana opened the small cab in one swift motion. Inside, keys were neatly organized, eachpartment with abel.

    There were keys to seven cars in total. Apart from four luxury cars, the other three BMWs were for the butler and drivers!

    Watching Elliana gather all the car keys and hurriedly run upstairs, she even lost one of her bedroom slippers!

    "What is that girl up to this morning?" Mr. Lyle stared at the rabbit slipper on the stairs and asked, "What did she just take?"

    Uncle Leo quickly replied, "The young miss took the car keys."

    Elliana efficiently locked away all the car keys and even hid her room key in the bathroom. She couldn¡¯t let them out today!

    ...

    "Elliana! Give me the car keys. I have a meeting to attend!" Mr. Lyle¡¯s expression was slightly angry; he was truly somewhat upset, having no time to mind Elliana¡¯s early return.

    Standing at the door, Elliana shook her head desperately, almost about to cry: "You can¡¯t go out today."

    Elliana didn¡¯t know how to exin to the two people in front of her. She only hoped her parents wouldn¡¯t go out today no matter what.

    This... looking at Elliana¡¯s demeanor, she didn¡¯t seem like she was causing trouble out of willfulness. Mrs. Lyle nced unexpectedly at Mr. Lyle, then slowly walked over to Elliana, bending slightly to ask, "What¡¯s the matter with you, girl?"

    "You just can¡¯t go out!" Elliana spoke with rare determination, leaving no room for negotiation, which puzzled Mrs. Lyle but also led her to think of something.

    "Elliana, then Mom also has a condition!" Mrs. Lyle smiled, but the smile seemed a bit off for Elliana.

    "What?" Elliana looked at her mother curiously, with a mix of anticipation and some doubts in her heart.

    Mrs. Lyle smiled gently, tapped her on the nose, and said directly: "We won¡¯t go out, but you have to agree to the marriage with the Bet Family."

    "I agree." Elliana replied almost without thinking.

    Everyone in the room was stunned. The young miss actually agreed? The same young miss who went on a hunger strikest month just agreed so easily today!

    Even Mr. Lyle, who had been frowning all along, was a bit incredulous. He clearly remembered his daughter being very resolute. Could it be that after spending some days together, Elliana found something good about Norman Bet?

    However, this was a different matter. Mr. Lyle felt somewhat dissatisfied, saying, "Many people are waiting at thepany, and I..."

    "Old Lyle!" Mrs. Lyle immediately stopped Mr. Lyle, not letting him continue, and reassured, "The meeting can be postponed. Our daughter¡¯s marriage is more important."

    Mrs. Lyle always cared deeply about Elliana and Norman Bet¡¯s rtionship. Years ago, Norman Bet¡¯s mother passed away due to a heart condition. Herst wish was not being able to see the two children, promised to each other as infants, get married, which was her lifelong regret.

    Mrs. Lyle and Norman Bet¡¯s mother were childhood friends, and the Lyle Family and the Bet Family were old family friends, a bond as close as kin.

    Seeing Mr. Lyle push his sses up, his frown unable to rx, Elliana knew her father cared most about work matters, making it difficult for him today.

    Not wanting her father to be caught in a bind, she had an idea and said, "Dad, when was thest time you exercised? How about you and Elliana walk to thepany today, okay?"

    "Walk?" Mr. Lyle was noticeably surprised. It had indeed been a long time since he had exercised, always racing against time, especially after taking over the Lyle Corporation, he had been even busier.

    "Okay?" Elliana tilted her head slightly, her bright eyes looking at the usually stern father. In the past, she was both scared and disliked him, as he always had a stern face and often admonished her.

    Perhaps she had been spoiled by the household¡¯s butler and other servants, so she would often throw tantrums over minor displeasures, yet during the three years at the Southwell Family, she was subjected to bullying but dared notin...

    Thinking of this, Elliana¡¯s gaze dimmed. At that time, she lived a miserable life, knowing full well Shane Southwell didn¡¯t like her, but still deceiving herself!

    "Alright! Let¡¯s walk; it¡¯s better to bete than not go at all." Mr. Lyle said, then turned to Mrs. Lyle, "Tell Lewis to postpone the meeting to the afternoon."

    Mrs. Lyle nodded, pursing her lips with a smile, and said with great relief, "You both go ahead. I have nothing urgent today, a perfect time for a break."

    As they stepped out, Elliana still felt slightly uneasy. She changed into a warm apricot dress, simple without any patterns, adorned only with a six-petal pearl blossom on the chest, making her skin appear even fairer, with her slender legs not looking too thin.

    She ced her hands behind her back, holding them as she walked alongside Mr. Lyle, feeling this moment was surreal. She had never connected with this father before.

    In her childhood, her parents were both very busy, and her grandparents disapproved of her for being a girl, never showing her a pleasant face. She became increasingly spoiled, always feeling if others didn¡¯t like her, why should she like others, and so, never taking the initiative to be kind, even to her family.

    "Elliana, focus while walking; this is the roadside. What if you get into an ident while being absent-minded?" Mr. Lyle suddenly spoke, breaking the silent atmosphere between them.

    Although Mr. Lyle¡¯s tone was stern, he was genuinely concerned. Were it the past, Elliana might have immediately retorted with a rebellious attitude.

    "Alright~ then... Dad, will you hold my hand as we walk, okay?" Elliana beamed with a bright smile, extending her small hands.

    Elliana was petite, only 160 cm tall, appearing cute and youthful. However, both her parents were quite tall. People often spected that Elliana was not their biological child, but she actually inherited from her uncle, who was just 158 cm, and he in turn inherited from their grandmother.

    "How old are you, still wanting to hold hands? That¡¯s unreasonable!" Despite his words, Mr. Lyle still reached out, taking Elliana¡¯s hand.

    Theirrge, warm hands held hers for the first time like a real father-daughter bond.

    Elliana smiled, yet tears welled up in her eyes, discreetly wiping them away as she adjusted her bangs.

    The road was long, a full seven kilometers, yet it felt so short.

    Half an hourter, the father and daughter arrived at the South Gate overpass, the very spot where her parents had a car ident in her past life! Elliana¡¯s hand involuntarily trembled slightly.

    Yet this subtle movement didn¡¯t escape Mr. Lyle¡¯s notice. He immediately let go of Elliana¡¯s hand, took off his jacket, and draped it over her, admonishing her while doing so: "When going out, you should dress more warmly. You¡¯ll only realize how hard it is once you¡¯re sick."

 Chapter 4 - 3: Does He Still Hate Me?

    <h4>Chapter 4: Chapter 3: Does He Still Hate Me?</h4>

    Elliana Lyle stared nkly at the intact guardrail. In her previous life, when she arrived at the scene, the iron guardrail had been crumpled together, not broken, but her parents¡¯ car had rolled down the slope beyond the guardrail.

    ording to the police investigation results, it was hit directly by three BMW X5s driving the wrong way. However, they only caught the owners of two cars, both iming they were driving under the influence of alcohol, while another person named George Lyle fled the scene!

    In Elliana¡¯s heart, this wasn¡¯t an ident; it was murder.

    She still remembered George Lyle, who escaped justice, and his license te number. Even after marrying Shane Southwell, she continued searching with the police, but after three years, they found nothing.

    "Elliana? What are you looking at?" Mr. Lyle squinted his eyes and gazed in the direction Elliana was looking. He saw the iron guardrail¡ªordinary, nothing special.

    Only then did Elliana snap back to reality, turning her head and smiling at Mr. Lyle. She adjusted the clothes on her shoulders slightly and shook her head, "It¡¯s nothing."

    Then she wanted to check the time on her phone but realized she didn¡¯t have it; presumably, she forgot it at home. She quickly asked, "Dad, what time is it?"

    "9:31," Mr. Lyle replied, looking at his watch.

    It seemed like everything was fine. In her previous life, the incident happened at nine o¡¯clock sharp. Her father was a punctual person, leaving at 8:55 every day and arriving at the South City bridge by nine.

    This probably gave the culprits an opportunity!

    But today, no ident happened, making Elliana believe it was murder!

    "Are you tired, girl? Don¡¯t want to walk anymore?" Mr. Lyle rarely wore a smile, his tone amused and somewhat helpless. Perhaps it was the first time he spoke to his daughter this way.

    "No, let¡¯s go!" Elliana said, taking two steps forward first to prove she could still walk.

    It was 11 a.m.

    The father and daughter arrived, panting, at Xiangtian Group in the center of South City. It was an office building, and Lewis Song, the assistant, was already waiting at thepany entrance. Upon seeing their arrival, he quickly approached.

    "President, you¡¯re finally here. Did youe on foot? I¡¯ve postponed your meeting, but President Wang from the building materialspany will be here soon to discuss cooperation," Lewis Song said, noticing a delicate girl following the president, Shawn Lyle.

    Mr. Lyle nced back at his daughter and said to Lewis Song, "Lewis, arrange for someone to take my daughter out for a meal."

    Then Mr. Lyle sternly addressed Elliana, "Dad has to discuss business. Behave yourself, and I¡¯ll have someone take you back after lunch. Understand?"

    "Yes, yes! I understand!"

    Elliana nodded feverishly.

    At this moment, Lewis Song had already rushed to the reception desk to find a poised and elegant receptionist to take care of her. Then, he followed Shawn Lyle and left.

    "Hello, Miss Lyle. I¡¯m Snow Wang," Snow Wang greeted politely, introducing herself. She wore a white shirt paired with a ck knee-length skirt, giving an impression of good character.

    Elliana nodded slightly, "Hi."

    With a simple greeting, Elliana didn¡¯t intend to say much to Snow Wang. She was somewhat socially anxious, not severe butzy enough to avoid talking to strangers if she could help it.

    "Miss Lyle, what do you like to eat? I can rmend some restaurants," Snow Wang asked with a smile. She didn¡¯t feel that Elliana was cold; rather, she thought the girl was easy to get along with, at least not difficult.

    "I don¡¯t know..." Elliana really didn¡¯t know what to eat; she was too tired to have an appetite.

    At this moment, Snow Wang¡¯s earphone blinked. She bowed slightly to Elliana before turning to take a call.

    "Okay, I understand. Sure, don¡¯t worry."

    After speaking, Snow Wang quickly turned to Elliana, "Miss Lyle, Assistant Liu said your mother called him, saying you left your phone at President Norman¡¯s ce, and he wants to meet you at South Joy Hotel."

    "Norman Bet!" She realized she had left her phone at the Bet Family, hurrying too much to notice.

    An hourter, a car stopped at the entrance of South Joy Hotel. This hotel belonged to the Bet Family¡ªa special five-star business hotel with a great location, excellent service, and beautiful environment, naturally making it quite expensive.

    Four young women stood at the entrance, all with neat appearances, well-made-up, wearing white shirts and ck trousers that gave a sense of orderlyfort.

    As Elliana approached within a meter of the entrance, the four bowed at a 45-degree angle, saying, "Wee, pleasee in."

    Then a man came to meet her. It was Raymond Wood, Norman Bet¡¯s assistant, dressed in a business suit, smiling respectfully, "Miss Lyle, please follow me."

    "Alright," Elliana felt her heart beating a little faster. She remembered Norman Bet holding her and speaking so gently, not like him at all.

    She always thought Norman Bet disliked her, as he never smiled at her, his personality aloof and withdrawn, leading her in her past life to believe he was a bad person. If he didn¡¯t like her, why didn¡¯t he refuse to marry her, leaving her to resist her family¡¯s pressure alone?

    Now that she thought about it, apart from not smiling, Norman Bet wasn¡¯t bad in other aspects.

    "Miss Lyle, we¡¯re here," Raymond Wood announced as he prepared to knock on the door for her.

    "Wait!" Elliana stopped Raymond Wood¡¯s action and smiled, "I¡¯ll do it. You can go."

    Raymond Wood bowed respectfully and left with a smile without saying anything.

    Elliana stood at the door for a minute, her raised hand resting on it for another minute, contemting her first words.

    She wanted to apologize to Norman Bet but feared being too abrupt. Oh well, she was just here to get her phone.

    As she raised her hand to knock, a cool male voice came from inside, "Come in."

    Upon hearing the voice, Elliana¡¯s face turned red in a sh; she hadn¡¯t even knocked, and her hand was suspended in mid-air.

    Grasping the door handle, she twisted it down, creak! The door opened in response, and a ring light seeped through the gap. As the door pushed inward, the simple, elegant decor became clearer, as did the man sitting at the dining table looking at her.

    "I... I¡¯m notte, am I?" Elliana awkwardly smiled, hurriedly sitting opposite Norman Bet without even closing the door.

    "Just on time." Norman Bet¡¯s tone was neither warm nor cold, devoid of any emotion.

    Perhaps this was why Elliana felt Norman Bet didn¡¯t like her. How could someone treat the person they liked so indifferently?

    "What would you like to eat?" Norman Bet asked, handing her the menu.

    Norman Bet had canceled all his ns today, leavingpany matters to his deputy, all for the sake of meeting someone. Fortunately, she showed up.

    "I¡¯ll have a bowl of wonton soup. I don¡¯t have much of an appetite right now." Elliana genuinely wasn¡¯t hungry, but Norman Bet perceived her words to mean something else.

    Elliana looked up and saw Norman Bet staring at her intently, not speaking. His eyes were too calm, like a frozenke, making Elliana hesitant to meet his gaze, so she diverted her eyes to the window.

    She wondered what Norman Bet¡¯s gaze meant... Was it a mere illusion, or did he really dislike her?

 Chapter 5 - 4: Norman Bennett, I Like You

    <h4>Chapter 5: Chapter 4: Norman Bet, I Like You</h4>

    This private room is veryrge. Looking behind Norman Bet, there is a resting sofa and a coffee table. However, this alreadyrge enough table made Elliana Lyle feel too close to him.

    It seemed so close that she could hear his breathing and smell that lotus fragrance. In fact, lotus was Elliana Lyle¡¯s favorite flower, but she never wore perfume. No matter when she encountered Norman Bet, she always felt like summer had arrived, yet these lotus flowers seemed to bloom in winter.

    "Um... where¡¯s my phone?" Elliana Lyle felt a bit ufortable being looked at by Norman Bet, so she broke the silent and oppressive atmosphere first.

    Norman Bet restrained his expression, gently pressing the screen menu at the edge of the table with his slender fingers, then calmly looked at Elliana Lyle and said, "Let¡¯s eat first, then... I have something to tell you."

    "Oh~ okay." Elliana Lyle nodded slightly, her hands sped together, appearing a bit restrained, which was unusual, as she wasn¡¯t like this before.

    After finishing a bowl of wonton, feeling the warmth in her stomach, Elliana Lyle gently blew on a soup spoon, holding her temple¡¯s stray hair with one pale, delicate hand, sipping the hot soup in small sips.

    Elliana Lyle¡¯s looks were exquisite. Even just sipping soup was enough to dazzle someone¡¯s eyes.

    "Alright, what¡¯s the matter?" Elliana Lyle put down the spoon, having been constantly recalling what Norman Bet had said earlier, wondering about what he wanted to say, feeling a bit expectant for a moment.

    Norman Bet first returned her phone to her, then said, "I know you oppose the marriage arranged by your parents. Marriage is not a game; it naturally needs to be careful, and I respect your decision. This engagement... is annulled."

    The words ¡¯annulled¡¯ were almost squeezed out of Norman Bet¡¯s mouth. He was reluctant, yet had no choice but to let go.

    However, Elliana Lyle¡¯s face didn¡¯t show the joy he expected. Instead, she was stunned, and the light in her eyes vanished at that moment, bing lost and dim.

    Her already fair and slightly moist skin appeared pale and unbearable at this moment. Elliana Lyle never thought that Norman Bet was going to break off the engagement with her!

    The hand holding the phone gradually tightened, fingertips turning red. Her nose started to tingle with soreness, and the next second, tears welled up in her eyes, looking like pearls dropping onto the table, but actually falling into someone¡¯s heart.

    Norman Bet couldn¡¯t fathom Elliana Lyle. His handsome brows slightly furrowed, contemting for a moment, then said, "You¡¯re the one who asked to cancel it, and I agreed!"

    With Norman Bet saying this, the sobbing Elliana burst into tears, like a child who lost her favorite doll.

    She med herself, regretted it, having personally driven away someone who loved her. She couldn¡¯t hold back the sadness inside, crying out in embarrassment.

    "Stop crying!"

    Norman Bet really didn¡¯t know what to do with her, his gaze sharp like a stern parent scolding a child.

    As expected, Elliana Lyle held back, wiping her face chaotically with her hand, turning her breakdown into quiet sobbing.

    "Do you hate me that much?" This sentence was spoken so softly, it seemed only Norman Bet could hear it, yet Elliana Lyle still caught it.

    Then Norman Bet stood up, walked to Elliana Lyle¡¯s side, reverting to his usual indifference: "After you¡¯ve cried enough, I¡¯ll have someone take you back."

    As he finished speaking, Norman Bet took long strides toward the door, intending to leave.

    "Don¡¯t go!"

    With these words, a soft figure like a kitten wrapped her arms around his waist from behind, those red little hands trying hard to grasp, her small face pressed against his back, warm tears soaking the suit.

    "No, Norman Bet, don¡¯t leave me. I don¡¯t hate you. I don¡¯t hate you. I like you." Elliana Lyle choked, actually from the beginning, she merely disliked others deciding her life, coincidentally meeting childhood ymate Shane Southwell again. Shane Southwell was always ambiguous with her, sometimes treating her well, sometimes ignoring her for long times.

    Just like wanting what you can¡¯t have, Norman Bet¡¯s goodness was visible to her yet unappreciated. She shouldn¡¯t have the face to cry, but she really didn¡¯t want to miss him.

    "What!"

    Norman Bet seemed as though he heard wrong, a hint of disbelief in his eyes. He slowly turned, gently lifted Elliana Lyle¡¯s small face with his fingertip, forcing her to look into his eyes.

    Those eyes holding strands of gentleness had countless thoughts in them, yet the expression was extremely solemn. He asked, "Look at me, say it again."

    At this moment, Elliana Lyle looked at Norman Bet with unusual seriousness, not fearing his gaze, those pupils reflecting her, and her alone.

    "I... like... Norman Bet." Elliana Lyle gathered the courage to confess to the man so close, clearly seeing Norman Bet¡¯s eyes quiver lightly. She watched him, that subtly moving Adam¡¯s apple, slightly pursed thin lips, features perfectly handsome.

    In the next second, before Elliana Lyle could react, the man tightly embraced her. She felt him slightly bend down, lower his head, lips pressed beside her ear, that gentle breath itching and warm.

    Norman Bet lowered his voice, seemingly hiding something, gentle yet hoarse, the tone extremely forceful: "I gave you the chance to leave. From now on, no more."

    "Mm~" The person burying her head in the strong chest responded softly, like a kitten moaning, sweet and delicate.

    ...

    A few minutester.

    "???" Standing at the corridor entrance, Raymond Wood heard the door open. Inadvertently ncing over, he seemed frozen in ce.

    What did he see! The president holding Miss Lyle¡¯s... hand! And Miss Lyle didn¡¯t look unwilling.

    Raymond Wood hurried to greet them, and upon closer inspection, Miss Lyle seemed to have cried, even her eye rims were red. What did the president do! Raymond Wood couldn¡¯t help but think too far...

    In broad daylight... ahem ahem!

    "President, President... Madam." Raymond Wood greeted them with a smiling face. Hearing this title, Elliana Lyle¡¯s face immediately flushed slightly.

    "Hmm."

    Norman Bet naturally nodded slightly, not being moved by Raymond Wood¡¯sically smiling face. Almost nothing could change Norman Bet¡¯s eternal icy expression.

    Walking out of the corridor, everyone recognized this incredibly handsome man, the president of Harmony Group, their boss.

    Norman Bet was not in a familypany, but founded Harmony Group, starting with skincare product development,ter venturing into filmpanies, zas, clothing, and recently even acquiring a gamingpany.

    The three hotel staff pushing cleaning carts stopped, starting to whisper: "The girl next to President Bet must be the eldest daughter of the Lyle family, Elliana Lyle, right?"

    "It must be. They even have an engagement. Don¡¯t know when the wedding is, it¡¯s so enviable!" Another staffughed, looking at them like a mother admiring her daughter and son-inw, liking them more the more she looked.

    "What¡¯s there to envy? It¡¯s just a business alliance. How would President Bet fancy Elliana Lyle? She¡¯s dull. She¡¯s even less than me." The one speaking cast a disdainful look at Elliana Lyle¡¯s back.

    This remark instantly dampened the mood of the other two gossipers, helplessly shaking their heads: "Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go."

    Outside the hotel, Norman Bet suddenly stopped, looking at the person beside him and asked, "Where do you want to go? Today I¡¯ll apany you."

    Raymond Wood was stunned, thinking the president was going back to work, suddenly bing anxious, wishing to grab the president¡¯s cor and shout "Don¡¯t you know how much work you haven¡¯t done? Are you giving up thepany?"

    Unfortunately, Raymond Wood didn¡¯t dare vocalize, so he could only imagine it in his heart.

    "I want to go..." Before Elliana Lyle could finish, she saw a car stopping at the hotel entrance, followed by someoneing hurriedly to greet and help park.

    And the license te of that car! ... Even if she were blind, she could recognize it!

 Chapter 6 - 5: She Was Forced

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chapter 5: She Was Forced</h4>

    "What¡¯s wrong?"

    Norman Bet could immediately sense her unusual demeanor. Just a moment ago, her face was touched by Luna¡¯s glow, but now it was covered by a gloomy expression, her almond-shaped eyes slightly narrowed, reflecting hatred, even the hand she was holding had be stiff.

    That was the hit-and-run car, and the person getting out of the car... Well now! So it¡¯s you!

    "Shane Southwell! I won¡¯t let you get away with this..." Elliana Lyle gritted her teeth inwardly, these words naturally remained unspoken.

    Although the person getting out of the car wasn¡¯t Shane Southwell, that person was Uncle Frederick! He was the one Shane Southwell wanted her to apany to the airport, also due to it being her who sent him back then, the police naturally couldn¡¯t discover this individual.

    Shane Southwell said Uncle Frederick was his great benefactor, and Elliana at the time was always grateful to Uncle Frederick. Looking back now, howughable and foolish it was, no wonder Shane Southwell had smiled at her that day,ughing at her stupidity!

    How could she not recognize George Lyle, letting this criminal slip away right in front of her eyes? The real mastermind is Shane Southwell.

    Shane Southwell¡¯s family runs a talent agency, Rnd, and Eleanor Llyod is an artist at Rnd, who will eventually be a popr actress.

    Back then, Rnd was investigated for tax evasion. The investigation revealed financial embezzlement, and at that time, many of Rnd¡¯s artists terminated their contracts, disregarding the high penalty fees. It was evident that the internal situation was not simple.

    That year, Rnd was severely in deficit, influenced by various factors, which happened justst month.

    However, this directly affected Shane Southwell, the vice president, losing substantial financial sources.

    At the beginning of the month, Shane Southwell asked her for money, but Elliana couldn¡¯t provide that much at the time.

    So, was it murder?

    Norman Bet followed her gaze, only seeing a middle-aged slightly overweight man. He didn¡¯t quite understand what grudges Elliana had with this man, which made her so furious.

    "Investigate." With just a gentle word from Norman Bet, Raymond Wood instantly understood what it meant and quickly nodded.

    At this moment, Elliana Lyle still couldn¡¯te to her senses. She hated, she was angry, she wanted to rush forward, but now... What reason did she have to convict George Lyle?

    Thinking about it, Elliana trembled with hatred, wondering if the sins of the past life didn¡¯t need to be repaid? Should he roam freely? No, Elliana asked herself if she could do it. Even in the past life, she exhausted her efforts to investigate, aiming to give her parents justice.

    But she never thought the murderer was her pillow partner, she was pleasing the murderer!

    "Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯m here." On the back of Norman Bet¡¯s hand was a row of nail marks, and he turned around to hold the trembling little hand tightly.

    Elliana gradually came back to her senses, exhaling lightly, that car had already driven away, and George Lyle had entered the hotel. Raymond Wood, who was behind Norman Bet, had disappeared at some point.

    "Um... Norman Bet, I¡¯ll head back first, I¡¯m feeling a bit unwell." Elliana truly had no mood for anything, she felt so tired, the more she knew, the more ufortable she became.

    Norman Bet gazed at the dispirited person before him. Previously, Elliana was lively, stubborn, and wilful, never cried just because, at what point did she be so fragile, so careful?

    Actually, when she was baring her teeth and ws at him, she was quite adorable too. At least back then, Elliana knew how to vent, rather than suppress like she does now.

    "Alright, I¡¯ll take you home."

    ...

    The Lyle Family.

    Upon Elliana¡¯s return, the butler said Mrs. Lyle had already driven out.

    However, she didn¡¯t mind, only thinking of going upstairs to sleep, her thoughts were too chaotic, tangled like a bunch of knotted strings.

    It was night.

    The bright moon hung high outside, and Elliana barely woke up, just when she was about to grab her phone from the bedside, she heard footstepsing up the stairs.

    Following that, the butler¡¯s voice echoed: "Miss, Miss, something¡¯s wrong, Mr. just called, Madam had a car ident, she¡¯s currently at the city hospital, asking Miss to hurry over."

    This news was like a thunderbolt from the sky, making one¡¯s heart skip a beat. Elliana hurriedly turned on her phone, noticing several missed calls, besides her father¡¯s, there was also one from Norman Bet.

    She had set her phone to silent before sleeping!

    In a flurry, Elliana slipped on her shoes, stumbling to the door, disregarding the anxious-looking butler, she ran straight downstairs.

    How could there have been a car ident, how did this happen...

    Was it Shane Southwell? Is he still unwilling to give up, failing once and trying again!

    "Miss, I¡¯ll go ahead and start the car to take you there." The butler chased after her, yet Elliana had already run out the gate.

    At this moment, she heard the sound of a car braking urgently, a car parked outside at the iron gate, Elliana stopped at the gate, only to see the car window roll down, revealing Norman Bet¡¯s cold and handsome side profile.

    "Get in the car."

    "Oh, okay!" Elliana hurried outside, the passenger door had already been opened from the inside, she quickly got in, and Norman Bet¡¯s slender hand thoughtfully fastened her seatbelt.

    The car started, Norman Bet spoke swiftly: "I went to the hospital to see your aunt. She¡¯s still being rescued. I called you but couldn¡¯t reach you, so I came to pick you up."

    "I fell asleep in the afternoon, then... do you know what happened? How my mom..." Elliana couldn¡¯t even bring herself to finish, she thought she stopped the tragedy, she thought it was over.

    If... if only she went to find her mom in the afternoon, then nothing would have happened, but in this world there is no if.

    "Currently, the police are still investigating. Two cars driving in the opposite direction hit your aunt. The drivers were intoxicated, and it¡¯s currently deemed idental." Norman Bet¡¯s tone was serious, he had seen the surveince, it didn¡¯t seem idental, clearly, Aunt¡¯s car had evaded, yet those two cars relentlessly crashed into her.

    Elliana trembled, shaking her head, her gaze darkened, unusually firm: "No, it¡¯s not an ident, definitely not! It¡¯s murder!"

    "What?" Norman Bet looked at Elliana with some surprise, filled with doubt, but in an instant, Norman Bet returned to normal, asking: "Do you know something?"

    Right then, Elliana¡¯s phone lit up, it was a message on WeChat.

    On the screen, it jumped, Southwell brother: Elliana, heard Aunt had a car ident, how is she?

    If she recalled correctly, Shane Southwell should be in North City, that¡¯s the national capital, far away from South City, how could he be checking in at this moment?

    Opening WeChat, besides this new message, there was a message she sent to Shane ten days ago, for ten days, Shane Southwell hadn¡¯t replied to her, yet at this moment, he checked in.

    The purpose was already clear to Elliana.

    Elliana adjusted her mood, now the most critical thing was not to alert the snake, in the previous life, Shane Southwell hadn¡¯t been linked to the car ident, it seemed Shane Southwell was well-prepared, those individuals were likely loyal to him, no matter what did not say a word against Shane Southwell, all firm about drunk driving.

    Cat, was Elliana¡¯s online moniker, Cat: Not sure yet, I¡¯m also in the car, heading to the hospital.

    Southwell brother: Don¡¯t be afraid, is Uncle alright? I¡¯m in North City, I¡¯ve bought a ticket and will return soon, though I¡¯m busy here, Rndcks severe funding, but I still want to be by your side, so you won¡¯t be so scared.

    The way he called Elliana made her feel sick, it turned out it was for money, if it were the previous life, she might¡¯ve already found ways to send money over.

    Since Elliana didn¡¯t hide from Norman Bet, naturally he saw quite a lot, Norman Bet knew Shane Southwell, he also understood Elliana often argued with Mr. Lyle and Mrs. Lyle about Shane Southwell, perhaps she was pressured by her parents, to say she liked him.

    Elliana took a deep breath, suppressing the hatred, quickly removing Shane Southwell¡¯s contact note, turning it back to the old Rnd.

    Norman Bet stopped talking, holding the steering wheel, lips tightly pursed, his whole demeanor akin to newly thawed snow on the snowy mountain.

 Chapter 7 - 6: Unnecessary Misunderstandings

    <h4>Chapter 7: Chapter 6: Unnecessary Misunderstandings</h4>

    North City, Vicars International Hotel.

    "Vice President, I¡¯ve already sent Miss Lyle a message, I wonder if she¡¯ll transfer the money." The assistant, Cari,zily leaned into Shane Southwell¡¯s arms, her long legs wrapped in a short red slit skirt.

    Shane Southwell had one arm around Cari and pinched the bridge of his nose with the other, looking very impatient, even annoyed, as he said, "How many days has it been? Last month we agreed she¡¯d send the money, but there¡¯s been no response until now!"

    "Indeed, Miss Lyle likes you, Vice President, but doesn¡¯t want to contribute. Should I urge her again?" Cari slightly raised her head, a faint seductive smile on her enchanting face, her hand also restlessly moved towards Shane Southwell¡¯s chest.

    Shane Southwell grabbed Cari¡¯s wrist, helping her up, stood up himself, and walked towards the bathroom, taking off his jacket, "Urge her again, I¡¯m tired. There¡¯s Eleanor¡¯s event tomorrow morning, arrange it properly."

    "Alright, Vice President, I¡¯ll head back then." Cari brushed her loose hair behind her ear. She was sensible and obedient in front of Shane, which is why he never found her bothersome; it was because she never aimed to have Shane like Elliana and those other women did.

    "Mm." Shane Southwell responded lightly.

    Minutester, Cari returned to her room, lying on a pure white bed, her fingers clicked open WeChat, then opened a contact saved as "Silly Woman No. 1".

    Rnd: Elliana, are you still there? Are you alright? If you don¡¯t reply, I¡¯m really worried about you. I¡¯m losing so much funding here, I¡¯m afraid...

    As soon as she sent the message, Elliana on the other side also received it.

    When Elliana saw the message, she had no intention to reply to Shane Southwell. After contemting, she still decided to send a brief response.

    Shane Southwell currently only wanted money. In the past, half of the Lyle Corporation¡¯s finances were used to cover Rnd¡¯s losses and Shane¡¯s loans.

    Most issues were unrted to Rnd¡¯spany. Shane Southwell, as vice president, often misused public funds; naturally, the deficits were filled by Elliana.

    Shane Southwell deeply loved Eleanor Llyod, although she was just an ordinary actress now, he still loved her passionately.

    Apart from the Lyle family, Shane Southwell surely had other options, but if he didn¡¯t marry someone else¡¯s daughter, who would be willing to fill his financial gaps?

    It seemed she couldn¡¯t outright refuse Shane Southwell. Stalling would be better, the longer the better, giving him hope while the gaps would only growrger. You harmed me, I won¡¯t let you go either.

    Kitty: I¡¯m fine, thank you for your concern. Rest assured, I¡¯ll find a way, don¡¯t worry. You¡¯re so busy, there¡¯s no need toe back.

    Rnd: Elliana is still sensible as ever, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯lle to see you when I have the chance.

    Shane Southwell never nned on returning to South City, and he never really conversed with Elliana. No wonder, during their meetings, Shane hardly paid Elliana any attention.

    "We¡¯re here." A clear, brisk voice rang in her ears, and the car came to a halt.

    Elliana put away her phone, unbuckled her seatbelt, and got out of the car urgently, sprinting towards the hospital entrance, with Norman Bet following her, neither too close nor too far.

    At that moment, Elliana¡¯s mother had already been sent to a hospital room, with multiple abrasions on her body, but luckily, she had only fainted from excessive shock.

    "Mom!"

    The hospital room door was open, and Elliana rushed in without a second thought.

    Arriving before her were her father and Norman¡¯s aunt, Rose White, a gentle and elegantdy. Her perfectly fitting sapphire blue cheongsam exuded a woman¡¯s tenderness and a schrly grace.

    "Elliana, your mom is fine, she just ate some porridge and fell asleep. Don¡¯t wake her." Rose gently stopped her, speaking softly.

    Rose cast a look at Elliana¡¯s mother, sighing lightly. She had been terribly frightened upon hearing the news and rushed here, relieved that there was no serious harm.

    Back then, her, her sister Emily White, and Elliana¡¯s mother Be Hue had the closest rtionship. Now, with her sister gone, only her two dear friends remained. She was terrified of losing Be too.

    "Is my mom really okay?" Elliana stared at her mother, tears welling up. It was all because she got involved with Shane Southwell, causing her mother such harm.

    ...Half an hourter, Mr. Lyle asked Norman Bet to take his daughter home, but this "home" was back to Norman¡¯s vi.

    After all, they had agreed to stay for a month initially, but had only stayed a few days.

    Inside the car, neither spoke. This time, Norman wasn¡¯t in a rush, so they had a driver.

    Elliana scrolled through her phone, not seeing any news about her mother¡¯s ident, so how did Shane Southwell know first?

    This further confirmed that it wasn¡¯t an ident. Without looking, she could guess the license te of the car that hit her mother. Sure enough, her father sent her photos of the ident scene upon her request.

    How could she bring Shane Southwell to justice! Something the police couldn¡¯t solve, could she possibly manage? Elliana asked herself inwardly, gradually feeling overwhelmed.

    Hitting once is an ident, hitting twice is murder. She believed that Shane Southwell wouldn¡¯t harm her family just yet; she remembered that tomorrow at the North City Red Carpet event, Eleanor would attend. This would be Eleanor¡¯s chance to shine.

    She would never forget how Eleanor acted in front of her, how she made Shane torment her.

    Wait! It seemed she had forgotten something...

    What was it?

    Red carpet...

    Suddenly, Elliana remembered something, quickly opened WeChat, and found her cousin Joy Lyle¡¯s contact.

    Kitty: "Sister, don¡¯t wear the dress Eleanor sent you for the red carpet tomorrow!"

    At that moment, Joy, who had just received the dress, looked at the message curiously. How did Elliana know?

    Sister: "Elliana, what¡¯s wrong? Why do you say that?"

    Kitty: "There¡¯s something wrong with the dress. The side seam is loose, it¡¯ll rip!"

    However, after sending thest message, her phone died, and automatically shut down.

    "Norman Bet, can I borrow your phone, please?" Elliana suddenly looked up at Norman, pleading.

    Norman handed his phone to her without hesitation, saying, "Your birthday."

    "Thank you!" Elliana unlocked the phone, opened Norman¡¯s WeChat, and entered Joy¡¯s phone number. Sure enough, she was added shortly after.

    Interestingly, Norman¡¯s WeChat name was Seven.

    Seven: "Sis, it¡¯s me, Elliana."

    Melodious Voice: "Elliana, you were right. The dress Eleanor sent me really has issues. Now I even find it suspicious that my original dress got ruined."

    Joy was her cousin. Due to choosing to be an actress, she was just as unweed at their paternal home as Elliana, so naturally, Elliana was inclined to be close to her cousin.

    In the past, when Joy walked the red carpet, her dress suddenly burst open, causing her major embarrassment, and she was even terminated by Shane Southwell¡¯s Rnd, leading to her being shelved indefinitely.

    Moreover, Joy was kicked out of the Lyle family by their grandmother, forbidding the elder uncle¡¯s family from acknowledging this daughter, directly resulting in Joy¡¯s death from a fall in August, the year following Elliana¡¯s marriage to Shane.

    Joy was very beautiful, the gentle intellectual type, with a simple personality, diligent but with no other talents.

    Seven: "Mm, change into a different dress, I¡¯ll cover the cost, don¡¯t worry about the money. (Do not reply)"

    After sending the message, Elliana turned off the phone, didn¡¯t even delete the chat history, and returned it to Norman.

    Feeling like she hadpleted a major task, Elliana suddenly felt exhausted and slumped back into her seat.

    "Tired?" Norman asked gently, seeing her weary look, feeling a pang of sympathy, although he knew this little girl had feelings for Shane Southwell, it didn¡¯t stop him from loving her.

    "Mmm~" Elliana nodded slightly, she just wanted to close her eyes and sleep for a while, leaning closer to Norman, resting her head gently on his arm.

    Norman¡¯s gaze lowered, dismissing any thoughts of canceling the engagement, wanting to say: You initiated this, don¡¯t me me for holding on.

    With a slight pull, he drew her into his arms, Elliana didn¡¯t resist, instead snuggling closer into his embrace.

    It was like she was gathering all the stars into her arms, Elliana felt Norman¡¯s cautious tenderness, warm and safe.

    This side of Norman could only be seen by her, could only be felt by her.

    In Norman Bet¡¯s heart, Elliana was the exception to all his rules.

 Chapter 8 - 7: What Should I Gift Him?

    <h4>Chapter 8: Chapter 7: What Should I Gift Him?</h4>

    The next day, when Elliana Lyle woke up, it was already close to noon.

    She squinted at the opaque navy blue curtains, and with the mushroom bedsidemp on, she couldn¡¯t tell if it was day or night.

    Instinctively, she reached for her phone, but it wasn¡¯t in its usual spot!

    She sprang up and saw it charging on the dressing table at an angle across from her.

    "It¡¯s noon already!" Elliana was startled and quickly ran to the window, pulling the curtain open with one tug. Indeed, the sun outside was scorching hot!

    Oh no! She had nned to transfer money to Joy Lyle as soon as she got home!

    When Elliana opened her phone, she saw a message from Joy Lyle, along with a transaction she¡¯d made to her.

    Sis: "Today¡¯s event went smoothly, thanks to my good sister. You gave me a hundred thousand, but I only needed eighty thousand. I really don¡¯t need that much."

    Sis: "Once I earn some money, I¡¯ll pay you back. For now, I still have to stay at Rnd for a year, and when the contract ends, I want to explore opportunities with another agency."

    She transferred money to Joy? When did that happen?

    Rushing to check her bank bnce, there was no record. Elliana¡¯s mind went nk for a moment, then suddenly realized ¡ª it must have been Norman Bet!

    Cat: "Sis, there¡¯s no need to talk about repayment between us. Take a rest."

    After sending the message, she noticed a bunch of messages from Shane Southwell this morning, but Elliana didn¡¯t even want to read them.

    Just asking if she had thought of a way to get money yet.

    Taking a deep breath, Elliana responded to Shane with one line.

    Cat: "I¡¯m working on it. Yesterday, my dad and I had a big fight. He said he wouldn¡¯t give money to outsiders, but I don¡¯t consider you an outsider."

    The same words as before; back then, she thought Shane loved her. Now, she¡¯s disgusted by the term "Brother Shane."

    Paying him back in kind, she decided to string Shane along, giving him hope.

    She knew Shane¡¯s bank ount was due early next month. It wasn¡¯t a small amount, and although she knew Shane could repay, with her promise, Shane would spend money recklessly.

    Elliana sent another line.

    Cat: "I¡¯ve been spending too muchtely, and I don¡¯t have money right now. I¡¯ll give you money once I get Dad¡¯s check, by the end of the month. Don¡¯t worry."

    Rnd: "Great, I knew Elliana was the best. Once I¡¯m done, I¡¯lle back to you."

    Cari¡¯s lip curled into a smile as she messaged. Elliana, the reliable fool among all fools ¡ª that¡¯s why she ranks at the top of them.

    After mocking her, Cari quickly messaged Shane Southwell.

    Rnd: Vice President, Elliana is all set.

    Shane didn¡¯t reply, probably with Eleanor Llyod right now. Alone with Eleanor, Shane never responds to anyone¡¯s messages.

    But Eleanor isn¡¯t simple, always ying hard to get, making Shane think she¡¯s as pure as the moon. She only takes on roles as naive sweethearts, iming she can¡¯t act and can only y herself, unworthy of an actress¡¯s title.

    To Cari, it¡¯s hypocritical and disgusting, but Shane loves her.

    Ping! Ping!

    Too many messages; besides her assistant duties, Cari chats with a group of silly girls in her free time.

    These rich girls¡¯ ttering words always make herugh until it hurts. They only fancy Shane¡¯s looks.

    By now, Cari¡¯s tired of these ridiculous messages, just smiling them off.

    Meanwhile, Elliana had gone downstairs, still in pajamas. Lana had prepared wontons and chestnut pastries for her.

    Elliana absentmindedly ate, pondering how to pay Norman Bet back. Would paying him directly affect the rtionship? Would Norman think she¡¯s creating distance?

    But... they¡¯re not even married yet. Not paying him back seemed unreasonable.

    Lost in thought, she sat there chewing, a wonton already swallowed, making Lana think today¡¯s wontons weren¡¯t good.

    "Oh, right!" Elliana¡¯s sudden exmation drew everyone¡¯s attention, and they all looked over.

    Elliana thought of the best way: get a gift of equal value for Norman! Quickly downing the wontons, she went upstairs to change.

    But as soon as she changed, Elliana thought of something else: she should hire a private investigator, at least to keep an eye on George Lyle!

    She sat in the car ¡ª her driver was Norman¡¯s prepared chauffeur.

    And she had beenzy today, donning just a simple sporty outfit, shorts, a t-shirt, her high ponytail exuding youthful energy.

    The car started; she nned to handle the private investigator in the evening. For now, she¡¯d visit her mom in the hospital as a flood of ideas jostled in her mind.

    Arriving at the hospital, she found her mom had been discharged. Calling Mr. Lyle, Elliana learned her mother was sent to the Lyle family estate to recuperate, with its tranquility and fresh air.

    Besides, Mr. Lyle specifically instructed her not to disturb her mom or worry about anything else, just to stay put.

    Her parents were always most concerned about her potential marriage to Norman. It¡¯s what Norman¡¯s mom entrusted on her deathbed. To someone traditional like Mr. Lyle, Elliana was already part of the Bet family, just short of a marriage certificate.

    Now Elliana was in a bind. She wanted to ask her mom in person about a gift for a man, but when she left the hospital, she found the driver, Li, waiting by the car, quickly opening the door for her.

    Seated, Li respectfully asked, "Miss Lyle, where to now?"

    "To... the mall!" Elliana barely finished before the car set off.

    After a while, she suddenly asked Li, "Li, what do men like most as gifts?"

    Li thought for a moment, guessing Miss Lyle wanted to buy something for the President, then smiled, "Our President likes everything Miss Lyle gives."

    Being seen through made Elliana blush, so she stopped questioning Li, though his answer made sense.

    Elliana diligently selected various items at the mall, including cufflinks, tie clips, ties, pocket squares ¡ª all essories.

    She figured Norman probably didn¡¯tck suits, but these small items could remind him of her from time to time.

    Actually... it seemed Norman didn¡¯tck these either. Realizing this, Elliana felt deted just after swiping her card.

    Li helped handle a few big bags, though they were mostly empty since the items were small but the bagsrge.

    ¨D Melody Harmony Group.

    Elliana¡¯s timing wasn¡¯t great; Norman was in a meeting. However, everyone in thepany recognized her, given she once made a scene.

    Employees at Melody Harmony were on edge, but fortunately, Raymond Wood, the assistant who got word, approached her with a smile and led Elliana to the elevator after a brief chat.

    Meanwhile, the receptionists exchanged nces, following Melody Harmony rules forbidding idle chatter during work hours.

    Especially with a big camera overhead, constantly monitored.

    In nd, Melody Harmony ranked within the top ten, and Norman was hailed as a business prodigy.

    Raymond brought her to Norman¡¯s office, her first visit, never having wanted to before.

    At first nce, she wanted to copse on the gleaming ck leather sofa to ease her day¡¯s fatigue.

    The office¡¯s style matched Norman¡¯s perfectly, meticulous with a subdued ck, white, and blue color scheme, a pot of dark orchids on the desk.

    Raymond beamed, "Miss Lyle, there¡¯s a resting area inside. The President extended his meeting today. You can rest if you¡¯re tired. I¡¯ll head out, but just call if you need anything."

    "Okay, you get busy." Elliana replied, and Raymond left.

    Not keen on the resting area, she quickly lounged on the sofa, half reclined.

    Someone knocked on the door; assuming it was Raymond, she said, "Come in."

    In walked a stunning, tall, and curvy woman. Upon hearing the voice, she already sensed something was off. Seeing Elliana half-reclined, her expression grew puzzled and displeased.

    "Who are you, daring to enter the President¡¯s office?"

 Chapter 9 - 8: The Two-Faced CEO

    <h4>Chapter 9: Chapter 8: The Two-Faced CEO</h4>

    Faced with the sudden questioning, Elliana Lyle furrowed her brows slightly. She tilted her face to look at the tall woman with a slightly angry expression and retorted, "And who are you?"

    "I¡¯m Susan, the head designer of Melody Harmony. Where did you, little brat,e from?" The woman who imed to be the director ced the documents she was holding onto Norman Bet¡¯s desk.

    Then, she walked towards Elliana in her seven-centimeter heels, looked down at her, andmanded, "Get out."

    "Why should I? Even Raymond Wood doesn¡¯t dare to talk to me like that." Elliana wasn¡¯t afraid of her in the slightest; instead, she leaned back into the sofa even more.

    "If you don¡¯t get up, I¡¯ll have to call security." Susan said calmly, but she had no intention of getting physical.

    Susan had just returned from Country M and sessfully applied for the position of head of fashion design at Melody Harmony this month. At Melody Harmony, even the lowest-ranking employees dress better than this brat, so she concluded Elliana wasn¡¯t anyone important, perhaps at most a distant rtive of Assistant Wu.

    It was also Elliana¡¯s attire that was to me; it was gifted to her by her high school friend, Nancy. Nancy came from a poor family and met Elliana through her excellent academic performance. However, they grew apart in college and eventually lost contact, and Elliana couldn¡¯t find Nancy anymore.

    "Go on, call them! Let¡¯s see if they dare take me away! I¡¯m Norman Bet¡¯s fianc¨¦e!" Elliana was originally a pampered youngdy who used to have a bad temper. Even though she had softened over time, she wasn¡¯t someone to be bullied easily.

    "Ha!"

    Susan let out a coldugh, squatted down, and with slightly curled red lips, remarked, "Though you¡¯re somewhat attractive, you can never fit into the upper society. Do you know who the CEO is? Girl, I advise you to stop daydreaming and leave now to avoid trouble."

    Seeing the woman squat to speak to her, Elliana immediately felt discriminated against. Wasn¡¯t it just because she was tall and had long legs? What¡¯s so great about that...

    Even though Elliana was short, she had a perfectly proportioned figure, just like a scaled-down version of a long-legged beauty.

    "I¡¯m not leaving! Call security if you can?" Elliana was determined to go all out against this Susan today.

    "Fine." Susan narrowed her phoenix eyes. The girl thought security wouldn¡¯t dare to kick her out because of Assistant Wu. The regtions at Melody Harmony were strict, so even if Susan helps remove a nuisance for Assistant Wu, she might even earn a favor.

    Then Susan made a phone call, and soon two men arrived. They were from the design department and were her men.

    "Take her away, use the service passage," Susan ordered, and the two casually dressed men approached to grab her.

    Were these security guards? They shouldn¡¯t be! The security guards wouldn¡¯t fail to recognize her!

    With quick reflexes, Elliana slipped through the arms of the two men and dashed out. She needed to find Norman Bet!

    "Grab her quickly!" Seeing Elliana run, Susan wasn¡¯t too urgent, thinking the girl would likely face the CEO¡¯s wrath soon, sparing her the trouble.

    Little did she know the girl was causing trouble, potentially threatening Assistant Wu¡¯s position. But if he were ousted, someone else would step up anyway.

    "Norman Bet! Where are you?" Elliana had never gone to the meeting area but was now running through the floors.

    She bumped into a distinguished man who carried a gentle and refined aura, exuding a demeanor that seemed friendly and approachable.

    The man quickly steadied her, showing concern, "Are you alright? Anything wrong?"

    "No... nothing wrong." Elliana didn¡¯t recognize him, but she felt he was familiar, like...

    "Stop!"

    The people behind her were catching up, and Elliana sprinted away, while the man gave a faint smile andmented to those behind, "It¡¯s rare to see such a lively girl in Melody Harmony."

    Finally, after much effort, Elliana saw a door¡ªa meeting room! Ignoring the startled expressions of the people at the entrance, Elliana pushed the door open and rushed inside.

    "Norman Bet!!"

    Norman Bet was listening to his subordinates¡¯ analysis when he saw the lively person burst in. He forgot all else and promptly stood up to approach Elliana.

    "Norman Bet~" Wrapped in a full embrace, Elliana¡¯s tone was no longer as agitated as before.

    Subsequently, the people chasing her had also caught up, including Susan, who hurriedly followed.

    The people in the meeting room were stunned, then they looked at Elliana with curiosity and envy, as most of them knew her.

    Pointing at the shocked Susan, Elliana said, "Norman Bet, tell her who I am to you?"

    "C...CEO!" Susan was aghast. Was this brat really Elliana? She had heard of Elliana but never expected... such an inexperienced girl, what qualifications did she have to be favored by the CEO?

    Yet now... she doesn¡¯t seem unfavored at all.

    Norman Bet picked her up like a child; his expression remained cold, but seeing Elliana pointing at Susan like a childining made him smile inside.

    "You¡¯re my wife." Norman Bet, to give Elliana some face, reluctantly uttered this "sweet nothing," knowing full well Norman Bet never spoke such words.

    He was always stern and cold, indifferent to everyone except Elliana.

    Feeling assured with Norman Bet¡¯s support, Elliana shed a triumphant smile at Susan, naturally wrapping her arms around Norman Bet¡¯s neck and quickly giving him a peck on the cheek.

    A seal of ownership; this man now belonged to her.

    `

    With a woman¡¯s intuition, Elliana figured Susan was about eighty percent likely to have feelings for Norman Bet!

    However, at that moment, Norman Bet¡¯s heart almost skipped a beat; his gaze didn¡¯t betray any emotion, yet he held her even tighter.

    Right then, Raymond Wood hastily dered, "Meeting adjourned! The details will be posted in the workgroup tonight."

    Most people left while stiflingughter, and others left envious and jealous. After all, who wouldn¡¯t want someone like the CEO?

    Everyone else left, leaving only Susan standing there in a daze. She couldn¡¯t believe it. She wasn¡¯t afraid Elliana wouldin; she simply couldn¡¯t understand why the CEO would like such a girl.

    She was acknowledged as beautiful, with a better figure, education, and knowledge than that girl. Why wouldn¡¯t the CEO like her? Was it because of her family background?

    During her short time at Melody Harmony, Norman Bet had always been cold, yet he spoke a few more words to herpared to others, giving her the impression she might be the exception!

    "CEO, I didn¡¯t know she was Miss Lyle, I¡¯m so sorry." Then Susan slightly bowed to Elliana and said, "Miss Lyle, I apologize sincerely."

    Seeing Susan apologize, Elliana lost her temper, although she didn¡¯t want to deal with Susan. The apology did put her in a difficult position.

    "Director Susan has only been with Melody Harmony for a short while, so it¡¯s natural she doesn¡¯t know Miss Lyle. Director, there¡¯s a projecting up that we should discuss." Raymond Wood mediated the situation, knowing how capricious Elliana could be. If Susan didn¡¯t leave soon, a fight might break out!

    Finally, everyone left, and only Elliana and Norman Bet remained in the meeting room.

    "Getting bolder, aren¡¯t we?" Norman Bet¡¯s words carried an incredibly seductive tone, making it hard for Elliana to keep herposure. His voice was so maic!

    She was a sucker for voices!

    Though Norman Bet¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look good, when had it ever been?

    Elliana muttered, "How was I bold? It was your employee who tried to kick me out. I had no choice but..."

    "No."

    Norman Bet interrupted her. As Elliana lifted her face, Norman Bet¡¯s face moved in closer. In that split second, her lips were covered!

    Everything seemed to suddenly stop. Elliana¡¯s lips trembled slightly as Norman Bet¡¯s warm breath, carrying the scent of lotus, enveloped her. It was so close, closer than ever before.

    Dare to be a little bolder, Elliana slightly tilted her head back, so soft, warm, sweet...

    The next second, the warmth disappeared, and Elliana, with her eyes still closed, furrowed her brows slightly.

    Opening her eyes, she saw that Norman Bet¡¯s expression was back to normal, but the flushed edges of his ears were proof of what had just happened.

    "Kiss me again!" Elliana was feeling awkward now. It was her first kiss, and it felt really good...

    "Be good, don¡¯t move." His voice carried an unusual huskiness,ced with restraint.

    Elliana instantly became much more obedient. She knew that if she ignited this abstinent man, she would be the one suffering.

 Chapter 10 - 9: Something Happened to Joy Lyle

    <h4>Chapter 10: Chapter 9: Something Happened to Joy Lyle</h4>

    "Put me down."

    Elliana turned her face away and coughed lightly, Norman gently set her down, and then held her hand as they walked out.

    They walked all the way to the CEO¡¯s office, but Elliana didn¡¯t say a word. Her thoughts were all jumbled up. Would Norman think she was...

    Coincidentally, Norman hadn¡¯t said a word either. As soon as they stepped into the office, she pointed to several bags on the sofa and said, "Norman, I bought you gifts. Do you want to take a look?"

    "Okay."

    Elliana took out all the items, which couldn¡¯t be considered expensive. Altogether, they were not even worth the cufflinks Norman was wearing.

    Those were masterpieces by a famous French designer, andpared to what she bought, Elliana felt a bit embarrassed.

    "Help me change," Norman¡¯s tone was light yet carried a slightmand.

    Elliana was momentarily stunned, then proceeded to remove all the suit essories Norman was wearing and reced them with the ones she bought.

    Watching Elliana seriously exchanging his cufflinks, Norman was a bit dazed. She had changed so much; he couldn¡¯t believe it was a sudden transformation.

    "Done! What do you think?" Elliana smiled as she looked up at him, hoping for his approval.

    "Very good."

    The remark was indifferent, but Elliana sighed in relief, fearing Norman might not like them.

    She then added, "Norman, thank you for sending money to my cousin; otherwise, I would definitely have forgotten."

    Norman lowered his gaze, focusing on the cufflinks. His cold eyes seemed somewhat disappointed as he said, "So, you¡¯re thanking me?"

    "Yeah... well, not entirely; I just wanted to give you a gift," Elliana spoke cautiously, afraid Norman would overthink it.

    The two shared a lingering gaze. Norman reached out to gently brush her bangs and said, "If you¡¯re tired, go inside and rest for a while. I¡¯ll apany you hometer."

    Norman nced at the rest area, signaling her to go in.

    "Okay."

    ¨D¨D¨DDusk.

    A person sleeping vaguely awoke suddenly from therge bed, noticing the time was exactly 6 o¡¯clock. What could Norman be doing now?

    With curiosity, she cautiously approached the door without wearing shoes; having not locked it upon entering, a gentle push would create a crack.

    Then the sound from the office wafted through.

    This door really had good soundproofing!

    "CEO, aside from that, I also found that George was at the overpass of South Gate at 9 o¡¯clock on the 20th, reverse driving with two men who collided with Mrs. Lyle," Raymond said.

    "Continue."

    "Yes." Raymond continued, "And coincide that day Elliana and Norman walked into thepany together. So... does Elliana know anything?"

    After a moment of silence without anyone speaking, Elliana was shocked. Norman was investigating this matter too? Could it be that he noticed her unusual look at George that day?

    "Have someone closely monitor George," Norman said.

    "Yes."

    Footsteps and the sound of a door closing were heard next; presumably, Raymond left.

    Norman helping monitor George¡ªdoes this mean she can do other things?

    The person sitting in the office chair looked toward the rest room, then stood up and walked over slowly. When the door was opened, Elliana hadn¡¯t yet reacted.

    Then.

    "Ah!!"

    "Wear shoes." Norman didn¡¯t say anything else, lifting her up and with his long legs stepping inside, gently cing her by the bed.

    There he patiently helped her put on sneakers, each movement extraordinarily gentle.

    "Let¡¯s go home."

    ¨D¨D¨D

    That night.

    Elliana nestled on the bed scrolling through Weibo; sleepy feelings surged up, but a message startled her, sitting up with no trace of sleepiness left, instantly awake!

    "Actress Joy Lyle to y South Wind Song¡¯s leading female role, but investment was withdrawn due to dissatisfaction with pure actress Eleanor Llyod!"

    That was just the headline, yet Elliana knew, Eleanor certainly stirred up trouble again!

    In the previous life, Joy never faced such matters, and South Wind Song¡¯s leading role was also Eleanor!

    Clicking on the headline, the content inside indeed supported Eleanor!

    Also a video segment of Eleanor speaking.

    In the video, Eleanor said: I just didn¡¯t want to see Sister Joy being taken advantage of, hence offended the investors; I now only hope Sister Joy won¡¯t me me.

    This pitiful look, Elliana found it sickening to even nce at.

    Thements below were infuriating!

    Username [Spring Snow]: Request to change the lead role; Eleanor is more suitable as the female lead. What trash is this Joy, still ming my dear Eleanor.

    Username [Brother Always Loves Me]: I think Eleanor isn¡¯t necessarily innocent; she seems quite cunning. Of course, Joy is no good either, likes being exploited, why not just be a hooker?

    ...

    The more Elliana read, the angrier she became, wishing to argue with these people, she quickly went to Joy¡¯s Weiboments.

    Sure enough, just as expected, filled with curses! Yet Joy hadn¡¯t posted anything.

    Uncertain how her sister was doing now, all she could do was hurriedly inquire.

    Kitty: Sis, how are you? Okay?

    Half an hourter, still no reply, not answering the phone call either.

    Lack of investors leading to an inability to film, Elliana thought long and hard and decided to be an investor herself, promptly calling Mr. Lyle.

    After listening to Elliana, Mr. Lyle immediately rejected: "Elliana, you know your grandmother forbids us to intervene with Joy, and your dad I have never involved in the entertainment industry."

    "Oh~" Elliana responded quietly, somewhat disappointed.

    She knew Mr. Lyle listened most to grandmother, and her grandmother disliked Joy, saying Joy was disgraceful and had tarnished the Lyle family name. Yet, Mr. Lyle thought likewise.

    "Elliana, don¡¯t meddle with those messy things; stay well, you hear?" Mr. Lyle¡¯s voice advised from the phone.

    "Understood." Elliana hung up, leaning against the bedhead, feeling a bit disheartened.

    Why couldn¡¯t they care for her, she was family too.

    Still remembered the year Joy debuted, earning only three thousand or so a month, high living costs in North City, coincidentally no film, her agency neglecting her, no film meant no money.

    Eventually, Joy was found under an overpass, nearly starving to death, taken to the hospital demanding medical fees from family, none from the Lyle family cared, only Elliana using allowance money to support her.

    These years, Elliana had been secretly assisting her cousin, providing funds, Joy worked hard and made it to A-list celebrity status; indeed, part was Mr. Lyle¡¯s silent approval.

    Thinking of this, Elliana felt her dad was pretty good; he was just pressured by grandmother.

    Now Joy was likely having a hard time, Rnd belonged to Shane¡¯s family, and Rnd surely supported Eleanor more.

    "So frustrating!" Elliana couldn¡¯t help but scratch her head; she should find a job, but there was still a year until college graduation.

    Buzz Buzz.

    Sis: I¡¯m fine, just received apany notice that South Wind Song¡¯s lead role was reallocated to Eleanor.

    Speed truly quick, Elliana couldn¡¯t help but think of Eleanor¡¯s tactics.

    Kitty: Sis, what is exactly happening?

    Elliana wanted to know the truth, not trusting online information fully, how much truth is there?

    Sis: Indeed, it was the investors trying to make moves, but I¡¯m the one who refused and offended them, unaware how it became Eleanor; I¡¯m toozy to exin.

    Elliana pursed her lips, unable to swallow this anger, why should someone like Eleanor be the female lead.

 Chapter 11 - 10: Just a Small Scene, No Need to Panic

    <h4>Chapter 11: Chapter 10: Just a Small Scene, No Need to Panic</h4>

    Elliana Lyle searched through her contacts for ages and realized she had no one to reach out to, except for Norman Bet and rtives. There was just one ount marked as Nancy, which hadn¡¯t heard from in years. It¡¯s her fault for not making friends before.

    Feeling restless, she opened Weibo again and saw the announcement from the South Wind Song crew.

    Upon clicking in, the details indicated they¡¯d secured new investors, just one could match several from before who withdrew, and there was an actor recement issue¡ªEleanor Llyod would be the new female lead.

    "Miss Lyle, it¡¯s Lana, are you awake?"

    Lana¡¯s voice came from outside the door, but she didn¡¯t knock.

    "No,e in. I didn¡¯t lock the door," Elliana sat up halfway, addressing the doorway.

    Click~

    Lana pushed the door open with one hand, holding a cup of hot milk in the other. She walked to Elliana¡¯s bedside with a smile, exining: "I noticed Miss Lyle, you hadn¡¯t turned off the lights, so I warmed some milk to help you sleep."

    Saying this, Lana ced the hot milk on the bedside table.

    "Thank you." Just as Elliana was about to drink it, she suddenly remembered something she¡¯d seen in the South Wind Song crew¡¯s announcement earlier!

    A bit in disbelief, she returned to Weibo to check. Sure enough, it was Melody Harmony under White Goose Studios.

    "Shane... Shane Southwell! You can¡¯t invest in Eleanor Llyod~" Elliana began shouting while still in the room, quickly pulling off the covers, hastily put on shoes, and ran out regardless.

    Lana found it odd, but quickly followed out, watching Elliana run towards the third floor, deciding not to follow.

    "Shane Southwell, Shane Southwell." Elliana ran and shouted, Shane Southwell lived on the third floor, but Elliana didn¡¯t know which room.

    With a click, a door opened, but Elliana had already run to the other side. Hearing the door behind, she quickly turned back.

    But...

    "Sorry!" Elliana covered her eyes immediately, but still peeked through her fingers.

    Norman Bet wore only a towel around his waist, his head wet with glistening droplets falling from his hair tips, streaming down his sculpted jaw, past his corbone, and...

    Um... Gulp!

    She swallowed, having never seen such a scene before. It was truly unexpected. Norman Bet¡¯s physique was so good¡ªslim in clothes, muscr out of them.

    Especially those abs, simply perfect.

    Norman Bet had been showering when he heard Elliana¡¯s anxious calls. Thinking something had happened, he rushed out.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Norman Bet finally asked, feeling it was inappropriate, but worried Elliana might have a real urgent matter.

    Cough, cough!

    Elliana cleared her throat, lowering the hand that wasn¡¯t covering her eyes.

    She pretended not to see anything, walked towards Norman Bet. No big deal, stay calm!

    The closer she got, the more fixated her gaze became.

    It seemed not much was wrong¡ªjust the way she was staring? Norman Bet couldn¡¯t help but feel helpless, saying: "Wait a moment."

    After speaking, he closed the door. Elliana couldn¡¯t see anything anymore, the corridor lights dim at night made everything fuzzy and indistinct.

    Finally closer, but all she could do was stare at the door.

    Tch~ I don¡¯t want to look at all, Elliana thought to herself.

    Norman Bet didn¡¯t have her wait long. In half a minute, the door opened again, Norman Bet wearing gray silk pajamas, white faux pockets adorning his chest.

    His hair dried but still somewhat unruly, his handsome yet cold face showed concern.

    "Tell me, what¡¯s up?" Norman Bet asked, pulling Elliana into the room.

    Norman Bet¡¯s room was simple¡ªwhite lights, luxury gray bedding, ck furniture, and at the far end the bathroom ss with water droplets.

    Sitting on the bed, Elliana took out her phone, showing the South Wind Song crew¡¯s Weibo post.

    Comining: "The lead¡¯s Eleanor Llyod, and you invested!"

    "You don¡¯t like her?" Norman Bet took it more as a question again, from Joy Lyle¡¯s matter, Eleanor Llyod clearly wasn¡¯t a good person.

    "Yes! Don¡¯t like her. Letting her y the lead, I¡¯d rather y it myself." Elliana grumbled.

    Norman Bet only nced briefly at the screen; his gaze never left his little girl. Hearing her speak like this, he said: "Okay."

    "Ah?" Elliana was momentarily stunned by his words, then shook her head, saying: "I can¡¯t. I was joking."

    "I could stop Eleanor Llyod from ying the lead, but that wouldn¡¯t be worth it."

    "Why?" Elliana asked curiously.

    Meeting Norman Bet¡¯s meaningful gaze, she seemed to suddenly understand, pondering over the phone screen.

    Norman Bet made sense; now that the announcement was out, stopping Eleanor Llyod would bring enormous pressure on Joy Lyle, which really wasn¡¯t worth it.

    Seeing her silent for long, Norman Bet had to reassure: "Joy Lyle is in the spotlight now, can¡¯t add on the stress. Also, I¡¯m going to North City for a business trip at the end of the month."

    "I know, but I still..." Elliana hadn¡¯t finished speaking when her eyes suddenly lit up. She looked excitedly at Norman Bet, gripping his arm, eyes seemingly sparkling.

    Before Elliana could speak, Norman Bet perceived her thoughts, agreeing: "Okay."

    "Really? Can I visit the crew? I want to see my sister." Elliana asked, fearing Norman Bet wouldn¡¯t agree, quickly shaking his arm.

    "Sure, as long as you want, nothing¡¯s impossible," Norman Bet agreed without hesitation, then added: "South Wind Songcks a second female role. Let Raymond Wood arrange it; if it surpasses the opponent¡¯s strength, better than conditions."

    Elliana listened intently, having already nned out. She understood Eleanor Llyod, she wanted to help Joy Lyle, also resolving her own grievances.

    "Hmm~ Norman Bet, you¡¯re the best~"

    The little girl leaned forward slightly, pecking him on the cheek swiftly, like a fleeting blossom. The person who stirred his heartstrings had already run to the door, wishing him goodnight.

    "Hmm, goodnight." Norman Bet sat for a while before standing to close the door.

    Back in her room, Elliana had a n. Going to North City would show Shane Southwell she was genuinely helping him raise funds.

    She wasn¡¯t a police officer nor a detective; since evidence wasn¡¯t easy to find, her goal was to bring Shane Southwell down.

    Elliana didn¡¯t believe Shane Southwell onlymitted one crime in his life; Rnd evaded taxes long overdue to copse!

    Suddenly, Elliana¡¯s heart sank. She remembered early in her third year married to Shane Southwell, a case shocked the whole nation.

    Many less-known actresses missing for a while were found by police, but what was found were damaged and battered corpus!

    Coincidentally, most actresses were once Rnd artists, some still under contract!

    At that time, Rnd was jokingly referred to as a hellpany byizens, some moring for a thorough investigation of Rnd Group, yet it remained unrted to Rnd.

    Could it be...

    Thinking of this, Elliana shivered, gulping down the now-cold milk, her heart chilled further¡ªpure fear and shock!

    But without evidence, she couldn¡¯t just specte wildly.

    The dumping location was an unknown ind! Specific location... she didn¡¯t pay attention back then; if searching now could many still be alive?

    But where to start searching?

 Chapter 12 - 11: You Are Mine

    <h4>Chapter 12: Chapter 11: You Are Mine</h4>

    "Pikachu~ Pika Pika~"

    Just thinking about it, suddenly the phone rang, scaring Elliana Lyle into a jolt. She hurriedly picked up her phone and instinctively pressed the volume button.

    She saw it was an unknown number, international even, and hesitated, but still answered it.

    "Hello?" Elliana spoke first, unsure who might be calling.

    "Hello, is this Miss Kitty? I saw you were looking for a private investigator online. When shall we meet? Or you can just send me the details."

    The woman¡¯s voice on the phone was clear and crisp, yet carried a tone of arrogance.

    Elliana was momentarily at a loss for words; this person seemed very confident, so she asked, "Why should I trust your abilities?"

    "Then give it a try, but." The voice paused, then continued, "Send the money first."

    This statement made Ellianaugh; she suddenly felt this was a bit of a joke, seemed like a scam.

    "Don¡¯t think I¡¯m a scammer, Miss Kitty. I¡¯m very busy, you have three days to consider."

    After saying it so casually, Elliana heard a beep-beep as the call was hung up.

    Simply speechless.

    ...

    The next day.

    Elliana woke up early and started texting Mr. Lyle. She hadn¡¯t slept well all night, now waking up to such a distressing matter.

    Buzz Buzz~

    Dad: "How can you not attend your grandmother¡¯s birthday, being a senior family member?"

    Hmm... Elliana wanted to say something else, but indeed had no reason to refuse.

    Tomorrow was her grandmother¡¯s seventieth birthday; she must return to the old Lyle family house, though her grandmother was difficult.

    Not only reclusive, but also favored boys over girls, most favored was the oldest uncle¡¯s family because the uncle had a son, yet Joy Lyle was the only one overlooked by the olddy in uncle¡¯s family.

    And if there¡¯s anyone least favored, it would be her. She should have had a younger brother, but Elliana¡¯s mother had to sacrifice the child to save herself during childbirth.

    This made the olddy despise her even more, insisting that four-year-old Elliana was responsible for the death.

    The olddy¡¯s ideas were deeply ingrained, rendering Ellie speechless yet powerless to change them.

    So in her past life, every interaction between grandmother and granddaughter was filled with sarcasm and sniping, naturally with Elliana receiving scolding from everyone, severely enough to be hit.

    However, in her past life, due to losing her parents, she didn¡¯t attend this grand birthday celebration. Now it seems too many changes will ur.

    "Ah, so annoying~" The more Elliana thought about it, the more uneasy she felt. Why couldn¡¯t she reincarnate a few years younger? It made her aware of nearly nothing, what¡¯s even the point of reincarnation!

    But... it¡¯s not entirely awful, just that the timing of reincarnation is a bit off.

    As she pondered, Mr. Lyle sent several more messages to her, reminding her she must go, that she should be sensible and all.

    She replied simply, and got up; early today, Norman Bet hadn¡¯t gone to the office yet, still sitting in the living room downstairs.

    Standard setup, coffee and aputer.

    "Norman Bet, morning." Elliana leaned over the railing, greeting him cheerfully.

    Norman nced back at her, responded ndly with a good morning, then returned his gaze to theputer.

    It felt strange; Norman hardly looked at her today, even seemingly avoiding her. Her intuition told her Norman was, not, right, today!

    Out of curiosity, Elliana quickly ran downstairs, heading straight to the man, staring directly at him with her big eyes.

    "Sit down." Norman, staring at theputer screen,manded the little girl.

    Yet, the little girl wasn¡¯t moved, still looking at him curiously.

    Norman had no choice but to look up at her, her eyes curious and inquisitive.

    "What¡¯s up?" He asked.

    "Nothing." Elliana said lightly, yet kept staring at Norman, seemingly trying to see through the man before her.

    Facing such a gaze, Norman appeared uneasy, seemingly holding an inexplicable desire towards this little girl, different from before.

    "Come, sit next to me." Norman softly patted the sofa, inviting her to sit.

    "Nope." Elliana replied, turned around to run. She felt she was overthinking and happened to want to go to the bathroom urgently.

    Yet, in that moment she turned, the man¡¯s big hands grabbed her wrist gently, pulling her into his arms.

    "Norman, what are you doing!" Elliana was startled, almost thinking she was going to fall, but Norman caught her.

    "Look at me." Norman¡¯s words quieted the girl in his arms.

    Elliana looked up at the man; his cold expression, brow slightly furrowed, revealing a hint of restraint.

    "Why look at you? Because you¡¯re handsome." Elliana¡¯s face turned red in an instant.

    Norman¡¯s tight lips entuated his stern look; those very soft thin lips, Elliana had tasted in the meeting room.

    Seeing he was close, Elliana had no mood for it. She was really feeling the urgency.

    She swiftly broke free from his grasp, rushed away, shouting, "Can¡¯t hold it, bye."

    The girl ran in panic, like a rabbit escaping a wolf¡¯s mouth. What did the rabbit mean by couldn¡¯t hold it?

    By the time Elliana returned, Norman was already ready to leave.

    "Norman, I need to tell you something. I¡¯m leaving tomorrow for my grandmother¡¯s seventieth." Elliana said.

    Norman showed no sign of reaction, only nodded slightly, saying, "Hmm, I¡¯ll apany you in the afternoon."

    "You¡¯re going too?" Elliana was visibly surprised. Why would Norman go!

    "Naturally." Norman replied nonchntly.

    Elliana immediately got anxious, retorted, "You can¡¯t go!"

    She hadn¡¯t forgottenst year¡¯s incident, when they celebrated her grandfather¡¯s birthday! Her second aunt¡¯s daughter Ada Lee fell for Norman at first sight, and they were not particrly close.

    Andst year Ada Lee constantly followed Norman, while the olddy intended for Elliana to break off the engagement with Norman and betroth Ada to him.

    It wasughable that in her past life, she thought the olddy¡¯s idea wasn¡¯t bad!

    "What¡¯s the matter?" Norman looked at the little girl in confusion. Why did she suddenly have a tantrum? Despite pursing her lips, her little face showed a bit of grievance.

    Elliana fiercely said, "No means no, you¡¯re not allowed to go!"

    The little girl¡¯s aggressive demeanour resembled an angry kitten, baring her teeth, yet harmless, unknowingly stirring someone¡¯s heart.

    "Reason." Norman didn¡¯tpromise; he wanted to know the reason, though he guessed part of it.

    "Because... because there will be someone hovering around you, being overly attentive!" Elliana grew more irritated, feeling Norman attracted butterflies, restless.

    Suddenly more wronged, as if Norman abandoned her.

    "You mean Ada Lee? Hmm?" Norman raised an eyebrow, teasing the little girl.

    Sure enough, hearing that name ignited Elliana, as if confirming something, "See! You still remember her!"

    "Last year, who locked me and Ada Lee in a room? Hmm?" Norman interrogated, voice carrying a hint of seriousness.

    He drew closer to her, an overwhelming pressure made Elliana shrink, yet she muttered evasively, "I didn¡¯t mean to..."

    Weakening as she spoke.

    Elliana simply stopped talking, huffed righteously, "Hmph, I don¡¯t care about you anymore."

    "Go change,e with me to thepany, I¡¯ll take you to choose a dress at noon." Norman reached out to pat the girl¡¯s head.

    Seeing her still upset, Norman couldn¡¯t help but find it amusing. Whose fault was it, yet this girl was more upset than him.

    "You¡¯re my wife, Norman¡¯s wife, be good, go change." Norman lowered his voice to soothe her.

    Elliana bit her lip; Norman¡¯s words pleased her greatly. She cheerfully "warned" Norman: "Then don¡¯t talk to her much!"

    "Hmm, you decide." Norman reached out to stroke her head; though his face showed little expression, his attitude was indulgent.

 Chapter 13 - 12: Accident

    <h4>Chapter 13: Chapter 12: ident</h4>

    In the car.

    Norman Bet leaned against the seat with his eyes closed, probably because he hadn¡¯t slept wellst night.

    Meanwhile, the little girl next to him kept scrolling through her phone, looking somewhat bored.

    "Sigh~" Elliana Lyle sighed softly, pressing the screen off button with her thumb. Last night, she had sent another message to Joy Lyle, but there was still no response, and she had no idea what happened.

    "Come here." Norman Bet raised his arm, leaning back against the seat, signaling with his eyes for her to move closer.

    Elliana obediently scooted closer to him, snuggling up against his body.

    "Norman, I¡¯m hungry. I haven¡¯t eaten anything since this morning." Elliana lifted her big eyes and looked at Norman pitifully, like a kitten waiting to be fed.

    Gently tapping the little girl¡¯s nose with his fingertip, Norman Bet asked, "What do you want to eat?"

    Elliana lowered her eyes, ncing sideways as if in thought, but then quickly lifted her gaze and said with a grin, "Fried chicken, and a soda~"

    "No." As expected, Norman Bet refused her without mercy.

    She knew this would happen. Norman Bet was a health-conscious person who hardly ate fried food, so around him, it was best not to think about it.

    "Then... can I have winter melon shrimp porridge at least?"

    "Sure."

    Seeing him nod, Elliana continued, "I also want crab meat dumplings, crab roe soup dumplings, and fish tofu pudding."

    "That¡¯s too much, remove two." Norman Bet couldn¡¯t help but ruffle her hair. The girl¡¯s appetite was always a mystery to him.

    Sometimes, a bowl of wontons could fill her up, and even when happy, she didn¡¯t eat much, but if in a bad mood, she would binge eat.

    Whatforted him was that no matter how upset she was, she would never skip a meal.

    "Then... let¡¯s skip the tofu pudding and soup dumplings."

    Arriving at Melody Harmony, Norman Bet naturally held her hand towards the main entrance. It wasn¡¯t deliberate; the two of them together were an eye-catching scene.

    "Miss Lyle! Miss Lyle!"

    Before Elliana stepped into Melody Harmony¡¯s gate, she heard a woman calling from behind, seemingly calling for her.

    Instinctively turning back, she saw a middle-aged woman with graying hair, carrying a canvas bag, wearing a floral shirt and ck cropped pants, running towards her.

    Elliana squinted slightly; this person seemed familiar, like... suddenly, her eyes widened, and she remembered. No wonder she looked familiar: it was Nancy¡¯s mother!

    "Stop her." Norman Bet slightly furrowed his brow. Not knowing the woman and seeing her rush over recklessly, his first concern was Elliana¡¯s safety.

    The security at the gate was already moving towards Nancy¡¯s mother, but Elliana quickly called them off, "Don¡¯t stop her, I know her," and looked up at Norman Bet for help.

    Norman Bet raised his hand slightly, and the security guards called off by Elliana sensibly returned to their posts at the gate.

    "Auntie Nan." Elliana pulled her hand away from Norman Bet, rushing to meet Auntie Nan.

    "Miss Lyle, I¡¯m finally seeing you." Auntie Nan was happy to see Elliana, but her expression and tone revealed humility.

    She wanted to hold Elliana¡¯s hand but, seeing Elliana¡¯s fair and tender skin, quickly retracted her hand, rough with calluses.

    Elliana looked behind Auntie Nan, not seeing Nancy, she asked, "Auntie Nan, where¡¯s Nancy? She..."

    Before she could finish, upon mentioning Nancy, Auntie Nan excitedly grabbed her arms, the urgency in her voice tinged with a glimmer of hope: "Miss Lyle, do you know where my daughter is?"

    This nearly knocked Elliana, unprepared, off bnce.

    "Careful."

    At this moment, Norman Bet steadied Elliana from behind, casting a nce at Auntie Nan.

    Though there was no anger in his eyes, neither was there warmth, this ordinary look intimidated Auntie Nan.

    Auntie Nan hurriedly let go of Elliana, taking half a step back, nervously twisting the hem of her shirt: "Miss Lyle, I¡¯m... I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m... I was just so excited to see you."

    "It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay." Elliana quickly waved her hand.

    Auntie Nan wiped her tears and continued, "I¡¯ve been trying to find you, but didn¡¯t know where you lived. Yesterday, I happened to see you here but couldn¡¯t get into Melody Harmony, so I came early to try my luck."

    Auntie Nan didn¡¯t know many characters, confusing Harmony for Melody was understandable.

    They seemed to have much to talk about. Norman Bet, looking at Elliana, said gently, "It¡¯s hot outside, talk in the reception room. I¡¯ll have breakfast sent to youter, I have a meeting today."

    "Okay, good." Elliana agreed, reaching out to lead Auntie Nan, smiling warmly: "Auntie Nan, let¡¯s talk inside, it¡¯s hot out here."

    Feeling favored by Elliana¡¯s gesture, Auntie Nan was a bit overwhelmed.

    Following Elliana into Melody Harmony, Auntie Nan deliberately avoided Norman Bet. She found this young man intimidating, his gaze like a long-frozen chunk of ice exuding cold air.

    In the reception room, Elliana and Auntie Nan sat facing each other. Auntie Nan looked around; she¡¯d never been in a ce like this.

    The marble floor gleamed bright, making Auntie Nan¡¯s feet in military rubber shoes feel ufortable.

    "Auntie Nan, tell me, what¡¯s wrong with Nancy?" This was Elliana¡¯s first question after settling in. She was worried about Nancy; from Auntie Nan¡¯s earlier agitation, it seemed something had happened to Nancy.

    At Elliana¡¯s question, Auntie Nan choked up immediately, lowering her eyes, her voice wavering: "My... daughter hasn¡¯t been in touch for over two years, no word at all. You¡¯re her only friend, Miss Lyle. I thought she might contact you."

    "No, I haven¡¯t been able to contact Nancy for years either. Auntie Nan, do you know where she went?" Elliana¡¯s heart sank; how could there be no news for so long? Could something have happened?

    Auntie Nan helplessly shook her head, cautiously took a piece of paper from the table, blew her nose heavily, and squeezed it in her hand.

    Self-reproachfully, shemented, "It¡¯s all my fault for being so incapable, unable to earn much money. My daughter said studying doesn¡¯t earn money and wanted to go out and find work." At this, Auntie Nan choked up again.

    "Auntie Nan, don¡¯t cry~" Elliana hurried to hand Auntie Nan a tissue, her own heart wrenching as she urgently pursued: "Then what happened?"

    Wiping away her tears, Auntie Nan continued, "At first, my daughter sent back 7,000 yuan every month. After half a year, she texted me saying she was going abroad, and then, nothing else."

    Knock, knock.

    "Miss Lyle, it¡¯s Xiaofang, your breakfast is here." A voice sounded from outside the door, interrupting Elliana¡¯s next question.

    Elliana said, "Come in."

    Xiaofang set down the breakfast, bowed slightly, and left, calming Auntie Nan¡¯s emotions somewhat.

    "Auntie Nan, have some porridge first, then we¡¯ll talk." Elliana pushed the shrimp and winter melon porridge towards Auntie Nan, smiling gently.

    She knew Auntie Nan probably hadn¡¯t had breakfast yet, having waited here since early morning to see her.

    Indeed, Auntie Nan was starving, saying thank you before devouring the porridge ravenously.

    "Careful, it¡¯s hot!"

    Watching Auntie Nan now made Elliana feel sad. She remembered thest time she visited Nancy¡¯s home; Auntie Nan was still young then, though her hands were full of calluses, she didn¡¯t look old.

    Now, Auntie Nan¡¯s face was etched with wrinkles, her hair much whiter. In just three years, she had be so haggard.

    Nancy¡¯s family situation was pitiful, with only a mother farming to support her studies. Nancy was both proud and insecure, never allowing others to assist her, including Elliana.

    "Auntie Nan, did Nancy tell you which country she went to?" Elliana asked before taking a bite of the small dumpling.

    "I don¡¯t know, my daughter wouldn¡¯t tell me anything, just left a text message."

    Auntie Nan then hurriedly took an old-fashioned button phone from her frayed canvas bag, excitedly showing it to Elliana: "Miss Lyle, look, it¡¯s this one."

    Taking the phone, Elliana read: Mom, I¡¯m going abroad, I¡¯ve sent you 100,000 yuan, don¡¯t try to find me.

    Just a few simple words, no clues. Returning the phone to Auntie Nan, Elliana said, "Auntie Nan, I¡¯ll help you look into it, and I¡¯ll call you if there¡¯s news."

    Taking out her phone, she added, "Give me your number."

    "Okay, okay, thank you." Auntie Nan trusted Elliana deeply, believing that for wealthy people, everything was easier, which is why she was determined to find Elliana.

 Chapter 14 - 13: Midnight Reverie

    <h4>Chapter 14: Chapter 13: Midnight Reverie</h4>

    After bidding farewell to Auntie Nan, Elliana Lyle nned to first check Nancy¡¯s entry and exit records.

    She didn¡¯t quite believe that Nancy would be someone to cut off contact with Auntie Nan.

    She returned to Norman Bet¡¯s office, and by 11 o¡¯clock, Norman Bet was back.

    "Norman Bet, can you find someone to help me check a person¡¯s entry and exit records?" Elliana thought Norman surely knew someone, better than asking her dad.

    Initially, Elliana nned to tell Mr. Lyle about this, since he had acquaintances, but then she thought he¡¯d definitely ask a lot of questions, making it troublesome and inefficient.

    "Sure, checking on your high school friend Nancy?" Norman Bet had already guessed, and was just confirming.

    He knew Nancy too, as he used to frequently pick up Elliana from school, and Nancy and Elliana were almost inseparable.

    "Yes, she¡¯s gone abroad, and I¡¯d like to know which country she went to." Elliana replied.

    Norman Bet called Raymond Wood in, said a couple of words, and then Raymond left.

    "He¡¯s gone." Seeing Elliana still scrolling through her phone, Norman Bet reminded her.

    "Oh, just a moment." Elliana didn¡¯t look up at Norman Bet, instead focusing on her phone screen, chatting with Joy Lyle.

    Joy told her she¡¯d return to the Lyle Residence tomorrow and had also gotten the script for the second female lead in "South Wind Song."

    And how could Elliana let Eleanor Llyod y the lead? It was just to let some people be proud for a while.

    After sending thest message, Elliana turned off the phone screen and wanted to put it in her pocket, only to find her tracksuit had no pockets.

    "Hold my phone for me, I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll fall." Elliana trusted Norman Bet entirely as she handed him the phone.

    They left Melody Harmony, and Elliana instinctively frowned; it was so hot this noon.

    As soon as she stepped outside, beads of sweat began to form on her forehead, while Norman Bet seemed unfazed by the heat. His fair skin was delicate and smooth, with no visible pores or sweat.

    Once in the car, Elliana felt alive again; nothing beats air conditioning!

    "To Prosperia International." Norman Bet instructed the driver.

    Prosperia International is a za where there¡¯s a bespoke couture store named "Lina."

    However, Elliana wasn¡¯t familiar with it; she didn¡¯t like wearing dresses, so she¡¯d only been there once.

    Perhaps that¡¯s why the olddy always said she didn¡¯t understand the rules and had a small-town attitude.

    This time going back to the Lyle Residence, she felt uneasy. In her past life, she hadn¡¯t attended this banquet, but Joy had said Norman Bet went.

    In her past life, Joy told her Ada Lee acted up, causing Norman Bet to leave the Lyle Residence in anger.

    She didn¡¯t know the details because she didn¡¯t care about these things then.

    The more she thought about it, the more mncholic she became, all of which was captured by someone nearby.

    "What are you thinking?" Norman Bet¡¯s voice was maic, cold, yet with a hint of care.

    Elliana snapped back to reality in an instant, looked at the man¡¯s cold face, and shook her head. She didn¡¯t know what she was thinking¡ªalways too much on her mind, too chaotic.

    "Come here." Norman Bet dominantly pulled her into his arms, making her sit on hisp.

    This embrace always brought a sense of security, calming even the most anxious heart. Elliana decided not to think about anything anymore and take things one step at a time.

    She looked up at Norman Bet¡¯s side profile, well-defined and pleasing to the eye, and couldn¡¯t help but ask with a smile, "Norman Bet, how do you maintain your skin better than mine?"

    The little girl¡¯s hands, as she spoke, began to restlessly touch his face.

    Suddenly, the little hand roaming his cheek stopped, and immediately he felt a slight pain on his cheek.

    "Getting bolder?" Norman Bet¡¯s lightment made Elliana withdraw her hands instantly, nestling into his neck as if nothing had happened.

    Elliana felt like she was pulling hair from a tiger¡¯s head, yet felt a sense of aplishment.

    ...

    In less than half an hour, they arrived at Lina.

    Lina is a standalone building in the Prosperia International za, and from the outside, it didn¡¯t seem special.

    "Wee to Lina, please show your reservation code or VIP card." The receptionist at the door wore a standard fake smile.

    The reservation code is obtained by filling out information online, and the deposit isn¡¯t small. Besides that, there¡¯s the VIP card issued by Lina¡¯s invitation, which few could obtain.

    Having a VIP card, they smoothly entered Lina, and the receptionist led them to a private elevator to the eighth floor.

    Ding~

    When the elevator doors opened, a man wearing bright colors with red lipstick stood at the door.

    "Oh, Mr. Shane is here, and this must be Miss Lyle. I¡¯m Peter, pleasure to meet you," he said, extending his hand gentlemanly to Elliana.

    This man named Peter had a slightly sharp voice but was Lina¡¯s chief designer, with a certain status globally.

    Norman Bet shielded Elliana in his arms and coldly said, "No need for handshakes. Is everything ready?"

    "Oh, stingy, I¡¯ve prepared everything early, just waiting for Miss Lyle to choose." Peter smiled, retracting his hand and smoothing his short curly hair to ease the awkwardness.

    Elliana didn¡¯t find anything strange as she had met Peter in her past life when she was about to marry Shane Southwell.

    Walking through the corridor to the eighth-floor hall, there weren¡¯t many people in the hall. It¡¯s said that Peter personally attending to customers depended on his mood and couldn¡¯t be forced.

    However, Norman Bet was different; he and Peter were old acquaintances, though often using authority to pressure others.

    The hall was spotless white, with leather sofas in the middle and various tea sets disyed in front, while three mannequins adorned with dresses stood in the center, apanied by two female employees in gray suits.

    "These designs are all mine, every stitch personally done by me, no carelessness allowed." Peter, gesturing with ir, circled Norman Bet.

    Elliana, however, was amazed by the three dresses. Rather than stunning, it was more shocking.

    Peter smiled as he spoke to Elliana, "These were designed a month ago at Mr. Shane¡¯s request, custom-made for Miss Lyle."

    Was this what Norman Bet ordered for her? But... these three dresses were what Peter showed her in her past life.

    She chose one of them, a fishtail gown, as her wedding reception dress then.

    "Go try them on." Norman Bet¡¯s voice sounded in her ear, calming her turbulent emotions.

    She nodded slightly, smiling, "Okay."

    Each of the three dresses was distinct: a fishtail gown as dazzling as a diamond, designed to fit her height, understated yet remarkably luxurious.

    However, Elliana didn¡¯t favor that one. She knew the olddy disliked white dresses, as Joy was once berated after wearing a white dress.

    She favored a darker colored swallowtail gown, shimmering in indigo. The irregr design rid itself of monotony, and the unique diamond sp at the waist was the highlight of the dress.

    After selecting, a female employee led her to the fitting room. A dress isn¡¯t easy to wear alone; it requires assistance.

    Once the dress was on, paired with a pair of blue single-strap high heels, everything seemed nearly perfect.

    As soon as she stepped out of the fitting room, Norman Bet¡¯s gaze rested eternally on her, the girl like a starry night was his.

    This strapless dress revealed her fair swan neck, with a longer right front creating a dignified appearance, short in front and long at the back, disying slender legs from the front and a long train from the back.

    "How is it?" Elliana walked cautiously towards the man, not for any other reason but fear of twisting her ankle in the seven-centimeter heels.

    "Oh~ Miss Lyle looks absolutely divine in that starry night dress," Peter eximed with excitement.

    Norman Bet remained silent, but Peter was overjoyed.

    Seeing Norman Bet¡¯s unchanged expression, Elliana suspected he didn¡¯t like it. She approached him, asking again, "Norman Bet, does it look good?" turning around lightly as she spoke.

    "Yes." Just a simple word, spoken hoarsely, as if suppressing his voice.

 Chapter 15 - 14: Aunt Wang

    <h4>Chapter 15: Chapter 14: Aunt Wang</h4>

    The old Lyle family residence.

    Located at the very west of Lindon Hill in South City, with convenient transportation, an asphalt road winds up to the vi on the mountaintop.

    The road was funded by the Lyle family, and not just anyone can enter this road leading to the Lyle¡¯s; there¡¯s a gate at the foot of the hill, guarded by designated personnel.

    When Elliana Lyle arrived, it was already eight in the evening, and she was feeling woozy, needing Norman Bet¡¯s assistance to support her a bit.

    She wasn¡¯t wearing formal attire, just loose shorts and sportswear, her hair tied up in a high ponytail, giving off a sense of sunshine.

    This old residence initiallyprised seven courtyards, but because the eldest uncle was once an overseas student and insisted on living in a vi, the olddy remodeled the residence into a hybrid of Chinese and Western styles, also for convenience¡¯s sake.

    By this time, the olddy had already retired for the night, and they were received by the elder aunt.

    "Oh, howe you¡¯re only here now? Your grandmother¡¯s already asleep." Bemusedly weed by Aunt Belle King, a woman in herte forties, standing about 168 cm tall. Noble and gracious on the surface, yet remarkably sharp-tongued.

    "Aunt." Elliana¡¯s tone and demeanor were calm, neither ingratiating nor respectful, yet no longer sharply confrontational as before, appearing much morepliant.

    When Belle King saw clearly the person standing behind Elliana, she immediately wore a smile on her face, realizing Norman Bet was here today. "Oh, Norman also came along, must have been a tiring journey?"

    Without waiting for Norman Bet to reply, Belle King instructed the maid behind her, "Take Elliana inside to rest."

    "Yes." With her head slightly lowered, the maid approached Elliana and said with a smile, "Miss,e with me."

    Elliana was indeed tired at this moment, wishing she could just dive into bed, nodding slightly to signal the maid to lead the way.

    There was actually no need for leading the way; it was just Aunt Belle intentionally categorizing her as a guest.

    Seeing Elliana obediently leave with the maid, Belle King sidled up to Norman Bet, chuckling, "Norman, truly a trial for you, that girl has been spoiled since she was little."

    "It¡¯ste, sorry to trouble you arranging amodations, Aunt." Norman Bet¡¯s tone was very polite, yet distantly.

    Belle King chuckled, "Alright, just likest year, your room¡¯s arrangement hasn¡¯t been touched."

    It wasn¡¯t that she hadn¡¯t changed it, rather Norman Bet hadn¡¯t shifted Belle King¡¯s arrangements.

    "Norman Bet, let me take you to see my mom." Suddenly a crisp and clean voice interrupted the conversation.

    Elliana had unexpectedly turned back halfway, almost forgetting that her man was still outside.

    Norman Bet barely noticeable curled the corners of his lips. This little girl, just now realizing he was here?

    Belle King felt discontent. She initially intended to introduce Norman Bet to her eldest daughter, Phoebe Lyle; howe this girl came back again?

    "Oh dear, it¡¯s sote, Norman should rest too; you silly girl, how can you be so unaware?" Belle King scolded warmly at Elliana, who had poked half her head out from outside the door.

    Tch! Elliana inwardly cursed, if she hadn¡¯te, Belle King might have had him stay in the room next to her big cousin¡¯s again, just like before, and it wouldn¡¯t have changed now.

    Now she finally understood, everyone in the Lyle family coveted Norman Bet, and she had once handed over the kingdom willingly!

    "Aunt, Brother Bet is my fianc¨¦, of course, he has to meet my mom. Don¡¯t worry, Elliana will arrange a ce for Brother Bet to stay." Elliana¡¯s tone was yful, intentionally teasing Belle King a bit.

    Belle King, however, didn¡¯t show her dissatisfaction, suppressing it, instead speaking earnestly, "Elliana, your mom must be resting now, and the wing where you stay doesn¡¯t have any vacant rooms, it¡¯s quitete, Aunt will first have Norman stay, you can take him to see your mom tomorrow, it¡¯s not toote then either."

    "It¡¯s okay~ Brother Bet is my fianc¨¦, so even if we stay together, it¡¯s fine, right?" Then Elliana looked at Norman Bet, squinting her eyes slightly, smiling as she asked, "Right, Brother Bet?"

    The look in Elliana¡¯s eyes clearly said, if you don¡¯te with me today, we¡¯re done!

    "Mm." Norman Bet just stood there, the simple sound from his lips carried a bit of indulgence.

    Having received Norman Bet¡¯s response, Elliana found it easy to continue. She jogged over to pull Norman Bet, cheerfully saying to Belle King, "Aunt, we¡¯re going to rest now, you should rest early too."

    With that, she didn¡¯t care what Belle King¡¯s reaction was, pulling Norman Bet along and running.

    After a while, Belle King finally cursed, "This damned girl, doesn¡¯t she want face?"

    The maid returned with her head down, saying nothing.

    Belle King clearly hadn¡¯t anticipated this oue; they weren¡¯t even married, how could they sleep together? Then she chuckled under her breath: just watch mein about you to the olddy tomorrow!

    ...

    Elliana had also slowed her pace by now, quietly allowing Norman Bet to hold her hand in his own reverse grip.

    She was thinking about what trouble Ada Lee might stir up tomorrow and whether anything would change just because she hade.

    Passing through the garden, a small vi in front was where Elliana was supposed to stay.

    It was quite amusing; except for the reception hall, she was only familiar with this small vi. The vi didn¡¯t have many bedrooms, only two, and the rest were study rooms, a music room, and a screening room.

    Now her mom lived on the first floor, so she naturally had to stay on the second floor, but where should Norman Bet stay? She really didn¡¯t know for the moment.

    Approaching the small vi, Elliana suddenly stopped. She lifted her face to look at Norman Bet and said, "You sleep in my room; I¡¯ll sleep with my mom."

    "Mm." Norman Bet¡¯s tone was light and gentle, with no emotion in it, yet his cold eyes revealed a trace of icy tenderness.

    Two minutester, Norman Bet moved into the little girl¡¯s small room. It was called a small room because therge bed was filled with plush toys,rge and small ones.

    Plus, the little girl had admonished him not to touch her dolls.

    Inside Mrs. Lyle¡¯s room.

    Be Hue hadn¡¯t slept yet; she knew Elliana would return, so she waited for her.

    "Elliana,e sit over here." Be suavely gestured to the person at the door, her smile kind and gentle.

    Elliana felt a little sprint up to her mother¡¯s bedside, her eyes full of concern as she looked her mother over and caring asked, "Mom, how are you doing now? Feeling better?"

    "It was fine already, but this morning I went for a stroll in the garden and your cousin¡¯s dog pounced on me; I didn¡¯t notice and twisted my ankle. That¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t meet you at the door." Be said casually, as though recounting a trivial matter.

    However, Elliana frowned. That Ada Lee! She didn¡¯t even leash her dog! Carefully she lifted the quilt at the foot of the bed, saying, "Let me see."

    Yet seeing the red and swollen ankle, Elliana was shocked. That must hurt; so she asked, "Mom, did Ada Lee apologize to you?"

    "She did." Her mother smiled gently, not revealing the truth that Ada Lee had merely scolded the dog, without further apology.

    The night was deep.

    It seemed everyone had fallen asleep, yet Belle King was still fuming and gossiping about Elliana with Phoebe Lyle.

    "Mother~ Brother Bet is Elliana¡¯s fianc¨¦; if they stay together, what¡¯s the deal? Why bother?" Phoebe was clearly impatient with the conversation, her otherwise delicate and wise face straining as though tied up.

    Though fond of Norman Bet¡¯s type, she was different from Ada Lee. This man wasn¡¯t hers, and she wouldn¡¯t fight for him.

    Belle King listened, suddenly standing up in angry frustration, pointing at Phoebe and chastising, "You foolish girl, I¡¯m standing by you and yet you criticize me! You don¡¯t strive, but Ada Lee certainly will!"

    "Oh mom! Enough! I just got a message from Joy; she¡¯s already at the foot of the hill, I¡¯m going to pick her up." With that, Phoebe was already starting to put on shoes, no longer wanting to hear her mother¡¯s nonsensical rantings.

    Belle King was momentarily stunned, then disdainfully yet curiously asked, "Why is sheing back? Wasn¡¯t she told not to?"

    "Oh dear mom, after all Joy is your daughter, how can you ask such a thing?" Phoebe really didn¡¯t want to waste another word with her mom, standing up and heading directly outside, paying no heed to Belle King¡¯s shouting,

    In this big family, Phoebe was considered the reasonable one, also being the only member of the Lyle family involved in writing novels. Her rtionship with Elliana and Joy was neither warm nor cold, just fulfilling a sense of eldest sister duty.

 Chapter 16 - 15: Birthday Banquet

    <h4>Chapter 16: Chapter 15: Birthday Banquet</h4>

    The next day.

    The sun was shining brightly, nearing noon, with people gradually arriving at the Lyle Family¡¯s old residence.

    Elliana Lyle didn¡¯t go out to greet the guests; she stayed indoors chatting andughing with Joy Lyle, as Ada Lee had already fully taken over that task.

    The morning was indeed thrilling; she was falsely used by her aunt early in the morning, iming she was indiscreetly sleeping in the same room as Norman Bet.

    The old woman, with her conservative mindset, predictably got furious, scolding Elliana indiscriminately. The words that came out were quite amusing.

    Normally a kind-looking olddy, she could also utter insults like "slutty vixen."

    Fortunately, she slept with her motherst night, and Aunt Wu, who was sent by the olddy to take care of her mother, testified for her, settling the matter.

    Yet the olddy showed no remorse, treating the incident as if it hadn¡¯t happened.

    "Elliana, you¡¯ve been through a lot, but Grandma didn¡¯t intend to drive me away today." Joy¡¯s voice was gentle, like the continuous drizzle in Jiangnan.

    Elliana heard this and smiled lightly, then deliberately furrowed her brows in thought, before asking with a chuckle, "What reward should you give me, sis?"

    "Elliana, you can have whatever you want, as long as I have it." Joy always spoke tenderly, her smile delicate and beautiful.

    Elliana had already prepared several excuses yesterday, because one of the actors for South Wind Song was an esteemed veteran artist.

    This man¡¯s name was Qin Xian, a bright film star from the olddy¡¯s era, and when she learned that Joy was acting with Qin Xian and ying a righteous character, her opinion of Joy improved considerably.

    Previously, Joy only yed small roles, mostmonly as a courtesan, and identally rose to fame through one role.

    Of course, this wasn¡¯t the main reason the olddy disliked Joy; it was mainly because of Joy dropping out of school.

    She left a good military school before graduating to be an actor. Elliana wasn¡¯t surprised, as Joy had often shared her dreams of acting when they yed together as children.

    Knock, knock knock.

    "Joy, Elliana, the guests are almost here. You need to appear at the 12 o¡¯clock banquet. Get ready." Phoebe Lyle knocked on the door but didn¡¯t mean toe inside. After her voice fell, the sound of high heels leaving was heard.

    Joy looked at Elliana, who was still in a loose sports outfit, helplessly urging, "Quickly change into the dress you brought, otherwise, we¡¯ll really bete."

    Noon at 12.

    The birthday banquet officially began.

    Thirty tables were set up in the reception hall, with a stage arranged at the front where Belle King specially invited the old star Hui Mingfang to offer birthday wishes to the olddy.

    Today the olddy dressed elegantly, her outfit befitting her status¡ªa sapphire cheongsam paired with jade earrings from her aunt and an imperial green jade ne from her aunt-inw.

    Elliana¡¯s mother gifted a yellow jade bracelet, which was then seen on Ada Lee¡¯s hand.

    As soon as the Lyle Family appeared, Norman Bet¡¯s gaze focused on one person.

    The beauty with snowy skin, dazzling like a sky full of stars, naturally drew many people¡¯s attention.

    The olddy was satisfied with Elliana¡¯s appearance today, being presentable enough.

    Elliana was uninterested in the birthday banquet, watching Ada Lee, wondering what she might be up to.

    Indeed, Ada Lee was quite a rare beauty herself, her fishtail dress enveloping her shapely figure, her painted brows carrying a hint of allure.

    And in terms of height, Ada Lee naturally overshadowed her.

    After paying her respects to the olddy, Elliana remained focused on Ada Lee, guarding against any trouble she might stir up.

    Up to the afternoon cocktail party, Ada Lee seemed calm, politely chatting with somedies from distinguished families.

    Enough was enough; Elliana felt a headache from keeping an eye on her, saying to Joy, "Sis, I¡¯ll be right back," pointing towards Norman Bet¡¯s direction.

    "Alright, go ahead," Joy smiled softly.

    A certain young girl took a ss of champagne and walked slowly towards the group Norman Bet was chatting with.

    There were truly few people who genuinely came to bless the elder on her birthday; most wanted to take this chance to establish connections.

    After all, Norman Bet wasn¡¯t someone you could meet just because you wanted to.

    The guests the Lyle Family invited this time were all from Belle King¡¯s handwritten invitations, excluding the necessary few noble families; most were her family¡¯s unscrupulous rtives.

    In principle, these people shouldn¡¯t have been invited. For a major family gathering like this, it was not only a banquet but also aboutworking.

    Norman Bet had kept a cold face throughout as he drank, his handsome visage like eternal frost, finding the crowd noisy. If they were talking about business, perhaps he could engage with them.

    Watching Elliana approach from afar, Norman Bet put down his wine ss, stood up, and said, "Excuse me," before moving through the crowd towards Elliana.

    With Norman Bet¡¯s departure, no one dared to stop him. Raymond Wood, the assistant who came along, had been following his CEO closely, but with the CEO being with Elliana, he also felt awkward to continue following.

    Yet now, Raymond was encircled by a group of people.

    "Norman Bet, you¡¯re quite popr, huh?" Elliana teased.

    Norman Bet didn¡¯t reply, simply snatching the champagne from the young girl¡¯s hand, and reminded her, "No drinking."

    Elliana furrowed her brows in dissatisfaction, "I¡¯m already 20."

    "No." Norman Bet said, cing the champagne on the table, and taking Elliana to sit in a quieter ce.

    "The police have released Adrian Young and Luna due to insufficient evidence." Norman Bet spoke with a heavy tone, yet particrly concerned.

    He feared Elliana wouldn¡¯t be able to handle it.

    Elliana was indeed shocked, even though there weren¡¯t enough concrete murder evidence, they shouldn¡¯t have been released so quickly.

    Seeing the young girl not speaking, biting her teeth in anger, he exined, "Currently, there¡¯s no evidence to prove it¡¯s murder, and Aunt didn¡¯t suffer significant injuries. If we insist on convicting now, it would at most be an intentional assault charge, which wouldn¡¯t lead to a long sentence, and the matter can only be settled like this."

    Watching her sombre expression, she remained silent. Norman Bet gently touched her head,forting her, "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let them get away scot-free."

    "Mm." Elliana exhaled a breath and merely nodded, suddenly recalling the call from the detective two days ago. Although not entirely credible, she still wanted to find another person to help.

    She said to Norman Bet, "I¡¯m going to the restroom."

    "Alright."

    Every interaction between them was observed by Ada Lee, who lowered hershes, feeling odd. Clearly,st time Elliana and Norman Bet had quarreled fiercely; why was it different now?

    "Sister Ada, what are you looking at?" The voice belonged to Lan Cheng, beautifully spirited; her father was in finance and had long held a good rtionship with the Lyle Family.

    Ada Lee smiled warmly, not revealing much, and downed her champagne, nodding slightly to a few people, "Excuse me."

    ...

    Inside the restroom, Elliana dialed the previous number.

    "Hello, nice to speak to you."

    "Is this Ms. Kitty? So, have you decided?" The voice on the other end carried a hint of fatigue yet maintained arrogance.

    Elliana sensed this person might be simr to a domineering woman.

    "Yes, I want to investigate the criminal evidence of three individuals." Elliana believed those three wouldn¡¯t have done just one thing.

    "Add my WeChat, I¡¯ll text you." As soon as the voice dropped, the call ended.

    Following the text instructions, Elliana sessfully added the other¡¯s WeChat, whose username was Love Detective Agency, with a ck logo as the profile image.

    Love Detective Agency: "Hello, you can call me Luna, please provide me with the names, former addresses, and former phone numbers of those you want to investigate."

    Elliana sent just names, license te numbers, and a welfare organization¡¯s name. These three had a background as orphans from a welfare institution.

    Luna: "30,000."

    How... outrageous.

    Elliana didn¡¯t haggle, directly transferring the payment, and Luna acknowledged receipt and stated, "This is just the initial price. Depending on theplexity, I may ask for more."

 Chapter 17 - 16: Luring the Tiger Out of the Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 17: Chapter 16: Luring the Tiger Out of the Mountain</h4>

    "Elliana? Elliana, are you inside?"

    At this moment, Joy Lyle¡¯s voice suddenly came from outside the bathroom door.

    "Oh~ I¡¯m here, what¡¯s up?" Elliana Lyle felt her phone screen go dark as she responded from inside.

    Joy¡¯s voice was gentle, "Aunt was just looking for you, she said grandma wants you to visit her."

    "Okay, I¡¯ll be right there." Elliana finished speaking and deliberately pressed the flush.

    ...

    Ada Lee had already sat down slowly beside Norman Bet, her beautiful face breaking into a smile, as she made casual conversation, "Norman, how have you beentely?"

    "Hmm, sis." Norman replied politely, partly because Ada was a rtive of the little girl. Beyond that, his face showed no other expression, remaining as impersonal as ever.

    Ada didn¡¯t care about Norman¡¯s coldness, instead, she smiled and quipped, "I heard from Aunt that Elliana is staying at the Bet Family¡¯s house. She¡¯s really settled down quite a bit."

    "She¡¯s always been well-behaved."

    "Not even married yet, and he¡¯s already defending her." Ada covered her mouth with a light chuckle, herughter was gentle and crisp.

    Then Ada seemed lost in thought as if reminiscing. She sighed, "I rememberst time when Elliana found out she was going to marry you, she was extremely unwilling. She tried to get us together to avoid the marriage, even locked the two of us in."

    "It was so dark in the basement back then; you don¡¯t know how I¡¯ve been afraid of the dark since I was a child. If it were just me, I don¡¯t know what I would have done. Luckily, there were the two of us, otherwise, it would have traumatized me."

    "Hmm." Norman merely hummed in response, not continuing the conversation, but his brow furrowed lightly as he understood who Elliana was doing it for.

    Ada tilted her head slightly, her long curls falling naturally behind her shoulders, revealing her lovely corbone. She looked earnestly at Norman and said.

    "Norman, do you know you have a reassuring aura about you? I felt itst time. I thought it was an illusion due to fear, but now I can still feel it around you. I think if Elliana stays with you long enough, she¡¯d feel it too."

    "At that time Elliana even went on a three-day hunger strike for marrying Shane Southwell, don¡¯t know what charm Shane has...ter I don¡¯t know what happened to both of them." Ada suddenly stopped, as if realizing she misspoke, she quietly withheld the rest.

    Then Ada sighed lightly, as ifforting, "Norman, Elliana was immature back then. Now that you two have reconciled, she must have severed ties with Shane too."

    "Hmm." Norman¡¯s tone was emotionless, yet you could feel a heavier chill around him.

    "Alright, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore. Elliana has grown up now, understands that what her parents arranged is right. It shouldn¡¯t be too long before she marries you." Ada maintained a serene smile on her face, her eyes revealing a concerned look.

    What the parents arranged, huh!

    What he¡¯s always wanted was never Elliana herself. What he wants is her heart, her entirety. But her heart doesn¡¯t belong to him, so what¡¯s the point of having the person?

    It¡¯s just mutual torment.

    However, Elliana¡¯s change towards him was so sudden, sudden enough to catch him off guard.

    The little girl who used to say whatever she wanted, throw tantrums when unhappy, now seems to have unspeakable secrets.

    "She¡¯s my wife regardless of whether she marries me or not," Norman said heavily, taking a deep drink from his ss, a reaction Ada was willing to see.

    But Ada underestimated Norman¡¯s obsession with Elliana.

    Even in a past life where Elliana married Shane, Norman never had the intention to marry someone else.

    "My uncle¡¯s birthday is early next month, we¡¯ll host a banquet at Bright Cliff Sea. Elliana loves the beach; why not bring her then?" Ada used Elliana as a pretext to invite.

    Norman promptly refused, "Heading to North City for a business trip at the end of the month."

    "What a pity, well then, let Ellianae, and I¡¯ll take care of her for you, just the same." Ada still smiled warmly.

    "She¡¯ll being with me," Norman said.

    "I see, you¡¯ve already made ns. I wonder if it¡¯s a business trip or a vacation?" Ada teased naturally.

    Suddenly, Ada remembered something and continued, "I heard that South Wind Song is going to be shot in North City. It¡¯s one of my favorite novels. The lead role was supposed to be Joy¡¯s, but for some reason it was changed to an artist under Shane Southwell, Eleanor Llyod."

    "I¡¯ve heard... Shane Southwell seems to be in North City too. Norman, taking Elliana to North City on a business trip might be unwise, don¡¯t you think?"

    The implication was clear, is Elliana going on a business trip with you, or for other reasons?

    Just after Ada finished speaking, they heard Elliana¡¯s hurried voice.

    "Norman Bet!" The name was called with a hint of yful anger, as if dissatisfied with something.

    Elliana had just seen the olddy, who inexplicably scolded her.

    She didn¡¯t have time to ponder over what she had done wrong before sensing that something was amiss.

    Sure enough, Ada was already talking to Norman Bet, yet he didn¡¯t seem angry.

    Did Ada not have time to cause trouble, or was this life different from the previous one?

    "Elliana¡¯s here, just in time to apany Norman. I¡¯ll go entertain the others." Ada always maintained a gentle demeanor in front of others, making it difficult for anyone to turn against her, including Elliana.

    "You go ahead, cousin, I¡¯m here." Elliana forced a smile and then sat beside Norman, wrapping her arm around his.

    Elliana¡¯s reaction somewhat surprised Ada; had Elliana truly fallen for Norman or was she pretending not to have liked him before?

    She couldn¡¯t probe further, only nodded slightly with a smile, and turned away.

    Watching Ada¡¯s departing figure, Elliana finally sighed in relief. She looked up at Norman, softlyining, "I told you not to talk to her~"

    "She¡¯s your cousin; I can¡¯t very well ignore her." Norman gently stroked the little girl¡¯s hair, tenderly and patiently, as if smoothing out the fur of a porcupine.

    ...

    The night settled in, marking the day¡¯s end.

    Elliana didn¡¯t n on staying long; Joy had already left in the afternoon citing work.

    The car window was slightly opened, letting in a few strands of cool breeze with a grassy scent. Elliana, watching the enchanting nightscape outside, couldn¡¯t help but yawn.

    Norman, busy with hisptop, looked up and asked, "Tired?"

    The warmth in his voice had a soothing quality that made one want to drift into sleep.

    "Mm~" Elliana turned and murmured like a little cat with a softziness, closing her eyes as she leaned closer to the man.

    The man seamlessly closed theptop, setting it aside, and gently pulled the little girl into his arms with a light press of his strong hand.

    Entering this warm embrace tinged with a subtle lotus scent, Elliana inexplicably felt at ease.

    She couldn¡¯t help but whisper softly, "Norman Bet~, you grown man, wearing lotus-scented cologne~."

    "Don¡¯t like it?" Norman tended to the hair syed on her face, his voice low with a hint of hoarseness.

    "I like it~." Elliana said and snuggled in deeper, taking a long whiff of the man¡¯s chest, once more savoring the scent.

    "Norman Bet, you smell so good~ so fragrant~." The mingling of his cool and warm breath created an itch, making the little girl in his arms seem somewhat greedy.

    Driving them today was Raymond Wood, who only wished he were deaf right now.

    Meanwhile, Norman sat upright, his heartbeat strong and rapid, his stomach burning, tightening his grip on the little girl.

    "Even more fragrant than real lotuses~."

    "Stop talking~ go to sleep." Norman¡¯s voice was deep and restrained, the little girl undoubtedly was a fatal temptation to him.

    After some time, her face eased its tight press, light breathing signaled she had indeed fallen asleep.

    His gaze was profound as he stared at her half-soft profile. This fragrance was crafted for this little girl, yet it adorned him.

    He remembered the little girl saying in her childhood that she wanted to marry a man who smelled like lotus flowers when she grew up.

    This sentence, perhaps, had long slipped from her memory.

 Chapter 18 - 17: North City

    <h4>Chapter 18: Chapter 17: North City</h4>

    End of the month.

    Today is thest day of July, and Norman Bet has already arranged a trip to North City, which willst at least half a month.

    Upon arriving at North City Yonghe Airport, Elliana Lyle felt dizzy all over. She never gets carsick, but she does get airsick. That feeling of weightlessness made her stomach ufortable.

    Fortunately, Lana came along as well. Lana supported her into the restroom, gently patting her back, and after throwing up, handed her some mineral water to rinse her mouth.

    This meticulous care made Elliana really fond of Lana.

    Elliana remembered when she first heard Lana¡¯s name, she thought it was Nancy. Actually, the two were quite simr, but Lana was not Nancy.

    "Miss Lyle, I brought your favorite sour candy. Would you like one? It might help with the taste in your mouth." Lana had arge leather bag draped over her shoulder, mostly filled with things Elliana needed.

    "Okay, sure." Elliana replied weakly. She decided that when she returned, she would definitely take the high-speed train and never fly again.

    After leaving the restroom, Elliana went to the rest area to find Norman Bet.

    Seeing Elliana arrive, Norman got up from the sofa and looked at the petite girl with a slightly pale face, feeling a bit of heartache.

    "Feeling better?"

    "A little. Lana gave me some sour candy, so I don¡¯t feel nauseous anymore." Elliana slightly opened her small cherry-like mouth, showing Norman the glossy round candy on her tongue.

    If not for the people around, the little girl might have lost the candy in her mouth.

    Norman took her hand, saying, "Once we get to the hotel, you can have a good rest."

    ¡ª¡ª Vicars Hotel.

    This hotel belongs to The Bets, and although it doesn¡¯t have much to do with Melody Harmony, Norman Bet, as the heir to The Bets, naturally has an exclusive suite here.

    "Mr. Bet, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll excuse myself." The hotel manager, Snow Hu, said respectfully.

    Before Norman could respond, Elliana spoke first, smiling as she urged, "Go ahead, go ahead."

    Once everyone left, it finally quieted down, and Lana went into the maid¡¯s room near the door to organize things.

    Elliana said, "Lana, you¡¯re tired too, take a good rest. You don¡¯t have to worry about me."

    After speaking, she crossed the living room, passed by the open kitchen and leisure bar, and rushed eagerly into the master bedroom.

    The feeling of lying down was like sleeping on clouds, she didn¡¯t want to think about anything else, just wanted to have a good sleep.

    "Little girl, I need to go out for a bit, I¡¯ll be backter." Norman¡¯s voice sounded above her head, but she didn¡¯t want to respond.

    She only felt a gentle kiss fall on her forehead, followed by being held up...

    She didn¡¯t know how much time passed, but it was already dark outside.

    Elliana groggily woke up, habitually reaching for her phone by the bedside. Turning on the phone, the ring light hit her, forcing her to squint and adjust the brightness.

    It was already 9 PM.

    She didn¡¯t know whether Norman had returned, but she had several WeChat messages.

    Luna Detective: "Jiang Feng and Adrian Young both have quite a few shady dealings, but let me confirm. I¡¯ve run out of money, could you send me some money first?"

    Luna Detective: "George Lyle, this person is the manager of Rnd¡¯s marketing department, though I couldn¡¯t find anything, he seems like a clean person domestically, but there are several suspicious points."

    This George Lyle indeed seemed suspicious. The strange thing was how George made it out of the country through legal means in a past life.

    Kitty Cat: "Can you gather evidence?"

    Luna Detective: "There¡¯s nothing money can¡¯t aplish."

    ...

    Kitty Cat: "How much?"

    Luna Detective: "Start by sending me twenty thousand."

    If that¡¯s the case, it seems like more than twenty thousand. Elliana sighed, gritted her teeth, and transferred twenty thousand over.

    Luna Detective: "Wait for my news."

    Whew~ Elliana closed her phone and let out a deep breath, hoping Luna would pull through.

    These days, she¡¯s been dealing with Shane Southwell, and tomorrow would be the first of August.

    Yesterday, she told Shane she had obtained his dad¡¯spany¡¯s check, with the financial and legal stamps, and she would go to North City to transfer the money to Shane.

    Yet this lie had many loopholes, but Shane didn¡¯t seem to mind or fear being held ountableter. He firmly believed Elliana would take the me.

    At the time Shane said, "Elliana, I won¡¯t take your money for nothing. I¡¯ll write you an IOU."

    This sounded nice, but with an IOU, everything would be Elliana¡¯s fault.

    What a calcted move.

    At this moment, there were also several messages from Shane sent in the afternoon on WeChat.

    Rnd: "Elliana, have you arrived in North City?"

    It seemed like Shane was feeling anxious, after all, tomorrow was the first, the loan repayment day. She just wanted to make Shane worry a bit, even though she knew Shane had the means to repay, but if he did it himself, it would cost him dearly.

    Elliana replied on her phone.

    Kitty Cat: "Just arrived. We¡¯ll meet at Lotus Park tomorrow. I¡¯m going to rest now."

    Bzz bzz~

    Norman: "Are you awake?"

    Norman: "I¡¯ll be at the hotel in ten minutes,e downstairs, I¡¯ll take you out for dinner."

    Elliana replied with an "Okay" and quickly turned on the light, threw off the covers, and got out of bed.

    This must be a date~ Elliana felt inexplicably excited inside.

    Picking up the white gauze dress folded on the bedside table, she prepared to change into it, suddenly feeling something was off!

    Wait!

    Elliana suddenly froze. Wasn¡¯t this the dress she wore before going to sleep! Why was she now wearing... a nightgown? And why was her upper body bare!

    For a moment, she panicked, wondering who had...

    Don¡¯t overthink! Don¡¯t overthink, it must have been Lana!

    But... Elliana clearly remembered Norman still held her when she was groggy.

    No way! No way! Elliana¡¯s heart raced, a blush creeping onto her cheeks and ears.

    Ten minutester.

    Norman¡¯s car had arrived at the hotel entrance.

    Gradually, half an hour passed, yet there was no sign of Elliana. Norman finished reviewing the materials needed for tomorrow, closed hisptop, and checked his watch.

    "Boss, Miss Lyle is probably doing her makeup. Girls are always slow with makeup," Raymond Wood exined, knowing the boss disliked waiting.

    "Okay." From the tone, it was apparent Norman wasn¡¯t really upset.

    Of course, as long as it was Miss Lyle, the boss wouldn¡¯t mind waiting till the end of time without showing any displeasure.

    Then Norman asked, "Has the money from Rnd been transferred?"

    "Not yet, we¡¯re two days shy of the deadline," Raymond replied.

    Norman opened the car door; it seemed he had to personally fetch the little girl. Who knows what she was busy with.

    At this time, Elliana had exited the elevator and happened to see Norman walking over from the hotel lobby entrance.

    Upon seeing Norman, Elliana blushed, because she had confirmed Lana was resting. Since Lana looked very tired, she didn¡¯t wake her up.

    But... this didn¡¯t mean it was Norman who changed her clothes. It had to be Lana who changed her before resting.

    Yes, that must be it.

    ¡ª¡ª Fragrant Dreams of Osmanthus

    This was a high-end Chinese restaurant, a must-visit in Northleigh Town.

    Each dish was exquisite like a work of art, making it hard for one to take a bite.

    Halfway through the meal, Elliana couldn¡¯t help but speak up. A bit shy, she tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear and said, "Norman, can I ask you something?"

    "Sure." Norman paused his meal, focusing his entire attention on the little girl, attentive and dedicated.

    The more he was like this, the more difficult Elliana found it to speak up. A long while passed, and she still couldn¡¯t bring herself to ask, yet Norman wasn¡¯t in a rush, still waiting for her.

    "I... I want to ask if my... clothes were changed by you?" Elliana asked hesitantly, staring intently at Norman, just hoping he would quickly say no.

    On hearing the question, Norman was initially slightly stunned, then a subtle smile appeared at the corner of his mouth, light yet carrying a hint of teasing.

 Chapter 19 - 18: I Can Do It, Too

    <h4>Chapter 19: Chapter 18: I Can Do It, Too</h4>

    "You... Why are youughing!" Elliana Lyle was both angry and flustered, her face turning bright red.

    She had never seen Norman Bet smile before, that slight smile was like the sun in winter, shining down briefly, disappearing in a sh.

    Norman, with his cool and indifferent demeanor, looked so handsome when he smiled, yet his smile almost answered her question.

    Thinking that Norman gave her... Elliana suddenly wanted to freeze on the spot.

    "Let¡¯s eat first, after we¡¯re full, I¡¯ll tell you." Norman¡¯s tone was calm, devoid of any emotion, speaking lightly.

    What else could she do? She could only bow her head and eat!

    Norman¡¯s deep gaze turned gentle, casually serving the little girl food, while her earlobes turned crimson, her face showing a touch of anger.

    Indeed... her beauty was captivating.

    The meal dragged on for quite some time, and Elliana no longer wanted to get up from her seat, ying with thest bits of broli on her te.

    "Are you full now?" Norman asked, actually reminding her.

    "Oh, I¡¯m done." Elliana had no choice but to put down her chopsticks, her movements appearing somewhat yful and endearing.

    She half-expectedly nced at Norman, hoping he¡¯d tell her otherwise.

    However, even after returning to the hotel, Norman still hadn¡¯t given her an answer, and she was too embarrassed to ask again ¡ª it made her feelpletely frozen.

    She simply went back to the master bedroom, lying in bed while scrolling through her phone. She hadn¡¯t told Joy Lyle she was in North City; she nned to give her a surprise by visiting her on set.

    ¨D¨D¨D Macao, morous International, Wise Entertainment City.

    The room was enveloped in a soft, blue ambiance, where day paled and night enticed, in a private box where a noble man sat on the principal seat.

    Beside himy a long-legged beauty, alluring and captivating.

    Arge table was in the middle, surrounded by four men, each with their own woman in their arms.

    "Brother Shane, you¡¯re not having much luck today, hehehe." A bald guy with a cigarette between his lipsughed sleazily, pulling the money on the table over to himself, therge gold chain around his neck quite conspicuous.

    Shane Southwell furrowed his brows, displeased and even angered by Baldy¡¯sughter.

    Just a nouveau riche, what right does he have to call him brother!

    "Baldy, you¡¯ve had enough, haven¡¯t you? Who gave you the face to call Brother Shane your brother?" Shane¡¯spanion, Easton Wood, got angry, his demeanor fierce and his tone icy.

    Baldy¡¯sughter stopped abruptly. His body stiffened, he gave a dryugh, then looked down at Shane, trying to smooth things over: "Oh Shane, I¡¯m just a rough guy, drank too much today, please don¡¯t me me."

    "No harm, we¡¯re all friends." Although Shane said this, the malice on his face was evident.

    Baldy immediately sensed trouble, his eyes rolling like two big copper bells, hurriedly saying with a smile: "The money I won today, it¡¯s all to pay respects to Brother Shane, without Brother Shane taking care of us, we wouldn¡¯t be where we are today."

    "Let¡¯s head to Blue Night Charm for a drinkter." Shane¡¯s tone was nonchnt, but his gaze signaled the seductive woman leaning against him to take the money.

    "Sure, thank you, Brother Shane, for not minding us." Baldy wiped his imaginary sweat, realizing how difficult it was to please these wealthy and powerful people.

    Just then, Shane¡¯s phone rang. As he picked it up, the others tactfully moved away, keeping their distance.

    Cari: "Vice President, Elliana Lyle wants to meet you tomorrow at Lotus Park. She didn¡¯t mention a specific time, and when I asked Elliana, she didn¡¯t reply. Guess she¡¯s asleep."

    "Okay, got it." Shane hung up the phone, disdaining Elliana¡¯s overly respectful demeanor towards him, like a dog wagging its tail at anyone.

    Yet thinking about that lofty man, Norman Bet, who liked but couldn¡¯t get the woman, being so attentive in Shane¡¯s presence filled him with a sense of achievement.

    ...

    Midnight, 12 o¡¯clock.

    Elliana was still lying on the bed, looking at her phone, wide awake, though a headache began to throb at her temples.

    Her mouth dry, she thought to get up for some water. Walking to the open kitchen, she noticed a refrigerator, yet Norman was still working by the floor-to-ceiling window.

    Finding mineral water in the fridge, Elliana drank a whole bottle, then approached Norman.

    "Not sleeping yet?" Norman nced at her, then returned his gaze to theputer screen.

    "Can¡¯t sleep." Elliana¡¯s voice had azy tone as she naturally sat beside Norman.

    After a while, Elliana suddenly poked Norman¡¯s arm with her finger.

    "Hmm?" Norman¡¯s gazended on her fair face.

    Elliana slightly parted her lips but said nothing, lowering her head, maneuvering under his arm to sit on the floor, right in his arms.

    Enveloped by warmth and the scent of lotus, Elliana felt at ease.

    Norman said nothing, affectionately patting her head, gesturing for her to behave.

    On theputer screen were ns Elliana couldn¡¯t quiteprehend, a WeChat message shed in the lower right corner.

    Opening it, it was a schedule for tomorrow sent by Raymond Wood.

    As well as a list of the director and main actors for the South Wind Song investment.

    This investment by Rnd was quite significant, with both key actresses from Rnd Group.

    Raymond: "President, the director inquired about Rnd¡¯s payment. Though there¡¯s still a two-day grace period, should we urge Rnd?"

    This message was visible to Elliana, so Rnd hadn¡¯t paid yet? Meaning Rnd¡¯s investment in South Wind Song wasn¡¯t stable yet?

    From what she knew, the South Wind Song series would bring Rnd massive profits.

    This payment should have been transferred to the production team the day after the contract was signed; dying it until now would certainly indicate a major issue.

    She recalled this investment was entrusted to Shane Southwell by Rnd, and now dyed, perhaps Shane had embezzled the funds, known for his gambling habits and being a prodigal.

    In the past life, Shane had her as his money bag, living carefreely.

    If Rnd failed to pay, they¡¯d breach the contract, not only would Eleanor Llyod be kicked out, but Rnd would also owe a hefty penalty, which would only worsen the situation.

    "Norman, could you perhaps convince Rnd not to pay, to break the contract?" Elliana turned, looking up at him seriously, a far cry from a joke.

    Norman lightly furrowed his brows, responding with a question: "Do you realize the consequences of this?"

    His eyes were probing, curious about what the little girl was plotting.

    "There¡¯ll be less investment, but the penalty can offset some of it." Elliana analyzed seriously, knowing Norman had the capability, just a matter of notifying the ounting department.

    "From what I know, Rnd suffered severe losses in the first half of the year, this investment is quite crucial for them." Norman¡¯s voice was devoid of any emotion, making it hard for Elliana to gauge his thinking.

    Elliana was momentarily at a loss on how to persuade him. Should she mention her past life... no, Norman wouldn¡¯t believe her.

    Having alreadye this far, knowing Norman loved her, she wondered if pestering him might work...

    "I don¡¯t care, Norman, help me, please~ I know you can do it!" Elliana pressed her face against his chest, rubbing childishly.

    This delicate tone almost convinced Norman entirely, yet he remained rational, steadying her head, wanting her to look at him.

    He asked, "Give me a reason."

    A reason... Elliana hesitated before stubbornly turning her head, irrationally insisting: "I don¡¯t need to exin, just that Rnd can¡¯t sessfully invest, and Eleanor can¡¯t be the lead."

    "Alright, but if any issues arise during the two days of lead-time, you¡¯ll be responsible," Norman teased, lifting her into his arms.

    Hearing about responsibility, Elliana asked indifferently, "What kind of problems? Can¡¯t find a suitable actor?"

    The man just looked at her, saying nothing, doing little to disagree.

    "Eleanor and I are about the same height, and I¡¯m prettier, you know, if they can¡¯t find anyone suitable, I can step in myself." Elliana was half-joking.

    She knew Norman¡¯spany had artists under contract. In her past life, in the third year after marrying Shane, Norman¡¯s artist La remade South Wind Song.

    La¡¯s version far exceeded Eleanor¡¯s, gaining widespread acim, which is something Elliana had considered beforehand.

 Chapter 20 - 19: Lying

    <h4>Chapter 20: Chapter 19: Lying</h4>

    "Norman Bet, wait a moment, I¡¯m going to the bathroom. We¡¯ll talk when I get back." Elliana Lyle said and dashed off.

    Buzz buzz~

    Elliana¡¯s phone rang on the carpet, and a message popped up on the screen.

    Rnd: "Elliana, meet me at the caf¨¦ in front of Lotus Park at 1 PM tomorrow. You must be tired today, so get some good rest."

    Elliana came out three minutester, leaping into the man¡¯s arms and continued to coo, "Norman Bet, is that alright?"

    "Alright."

    Norman Bet agreed immediately, but his eyes grew darker.

    "Go to sleep. Tomorrow afternoon, apany me out." Norman Bet¡¯s tone wasmanding, with a chill like snowkes slipping down the neck.

    Elliana nestled in his arms, her big eyes staring at the man¡¯s distinct chin.

    She couldn¡¯t quite figure it out. Really... everything was fine just now, how did he suddenly get so fierce?

    Seeing the little girl a bit dazed, Norman Bet spoke again, "Don¡¯t make me repeat myself."

    "Oh... goodnight then!"

    Norman Bet¡¯s grim face was somewhat frightening to her, prompting her to obediently get up and run back to the room.

    She really found it strange, why did Norman Bet suddenly get angry? Was it because she was being unreasonable?

    Forget it, forget it, anyway, she already agreed.

    Sitting on the sofa, Norman Bet was lost in thought, his slender fingers tightly pinching his brow, still able to feel the lingering warmth of the little girl in his embrace.

    He had investigated the rtionship between Eleanor Llyod and Shane Southwell, not wanting the little girl to be deceived, and tried to stop it several times.

    Yet, she didn¡¯t trust him.

    Now she hated Eleanor Llyod so much, she must have known.

    Sometimes... he really wanted to let go, as long as she would be happy.

    But he was selfish, wanting to possess her alone.

    ...

    AM.

    Elliana sleepily ran out to get some water, perhaps because North City was too dry, making it hard for this girl who was raised in misty rain to adapt.

    After drinking water, she unsteadily returned to her room, habitually opening the door on the right. Whether at Norman Bet¡¯s house or her own, her room was always to the right.

    The person in the room was a light sleeper, easily awakened by the slightest noise.

    A pair of phoenix eyes, shrouded in darkness, opened, watching the little girl secure the door, climb into bed, and settle down after a couple of nudges.

    Elliana smelled the fragrance of lotus in her daze and turned towards the source, as if embracing arge elegant lotus blossom, holding it tighter with affection.

    With the gentle sound of breathing, Norman Bet found it utterly impossible to sleep. Beneath his eyes, as deep as a cold pool, were emotions invisible to anyone else.

    "Mm... Norman Bet..."

    "I like you... mm~..."

    The tender murmuring tightened the man¡¯s body.

    Exhaling heavily, Norman Bet turned to embrace the little girl.

    This little trickster always softened his heart.

    "Stay by my side forever, alright?" Norman Bet¡¯s voice was unusually gentle, like the breeze across distant spring mountains or the morning dew from a summer lotus.

    The next day.

    Elliana woke up in thete morning, cautiously eating the wontons Lana made at the dining table.

    From time to time, she would sneak a look at Norman Bet, who sat not far away, his face indifferent.

    The man sat on the sofa, long legs crossed, an icy gaze seemingly unfocused, engulfing him in a cold pool-like calmness.

    Sincest night, until now, Norman Bet¡¯s demeanor towards her was indifferent.

    And... when she woke up today, she found herself in another room. Could Norman Bet have moved her out in the middle of the night?

    "Are you done? If you¡¯re done, go and change clothes." Norman Bet¡¯s expression stern, his tone carried a hint of authority.

    "Oh~" Elliana finished herst sip of soup, pouting in frustration and ncing at Norman Bet with annoyance. What¡¯s the point of being so fierce!

    "Miss Lyle, Master had a few dresses sent over today. Let me take you to see them." Lana offered with a smile, assisting Elliana as she could sense the tension between the two today.

    She wondered what was going on, perhaps they had fought? Normally, Master wouldn¡¯t argue with Miss Lyle.

    ...

    North City, Night Banquet International.

    This was a ce for business gatherings, and Elliana didn¡¯t know why Norman Bet brought her here.

    She clung to the man¡¯s arm, tilting her head to ask, "Norman Bet, what are we doing here?"

    Norman Bet kept a cold face, showing no intention of acknowledging the little girl, noting her absentmindedness as she peeked at him asionally along the way.

    Perhaps he was too selfish; today, he deliberately didn¡¯t want her to meet Shane Southwell.

    With her question going unanswered, Elliana suddenly got a bit angry, letting go of his arm and muttering, "I don¡¯t want to go! I want to go back."

    Norman Bet stopped, his lips parting slightly, his tone frigid, "Do you really want to see him that badly?"

    "Huh? Who?" Elliana was left in confusion, who was Norman Bet talking about?

    "I don¡¯t like being lied to by others." Norman Bet looked down at her, a chill in his eyes.

    Elliana didn¡¯t know how to reply momentarily; she couldn¡¯t understand what Norman Bet meant by his words.

    When did she lie? She didn¡¯t.

    "Let¡¯s go." No sooner had Norman Bet¡¯s words fallen than he started walking on his own.

    Raymond Wood looked at their CEO, then at Elliana, hesitating before deciding to quickly follow Norman Bet.

    "..." Elliana bit her lip, unable but to follow.

    Entering the hall, through thevish corridor, Elliana continued to follow Norman Bet, not too close nor too far.

    It was only upon entering arge private room that she began to understand why Norman Bet hade.

    She might not recognize the others here, but one woman¡¯s face she could not forget!

    It was Eleanor Llyod.

    This seemed to be a business gathering for investors and the film crew.

    Elliana felt a surge of hatred upon seeing Eleanor Llyod, recalling how she and Shane Southwell treated her in her past life.

    And also recalling the truth Eleanor Llyod had long told her, that Shane Southwell married her for money, that the tonic he gave her was poison, and once she died, Shane Southwell would marry Eleanor Llyod.

    But back then, she was foolish enough to believe Eleanor Llyod was saying those things out of jealousy.

    "President Bet is here, please, take a seat," Director Thomas Lee hurriedly got up, warmly approaching Norman Bet. In his forties, his appearance was fairly conventional, with slightly sharp eyes.

    It¡¯s said that Thomas Lee was previously a spice seller, infamous for his high prices, which led to a tarnished reputation and the closure of his spice factory, prompting his switch to directing.

    Norman Bet was ushered to the main seat by Thomas Lee¡¯s enthusiastic wee, seated in the very center of the sofa.

    A few mboyantly dressed women then gathered around.

    Standing by the sofa, Elliana helplessly looked at Norman Bet, where should she sit?

    However, Norman Bet casually epted a drink from one of the women, elegantly swirling the ss, with no interest in acknowledging her.

    Raymond Wood was utterly stunned, hadn¡¯t ever seen other women around Norman Bet before; anyone who darede near would be thrown out.

    Moreover, beads of sweat started forming on Thomas Lee¡¯s face.

    If they angered Norman Bet, this business world King Hargreaves, his career as a director mighte to an end.

    But seeing Norman Bet take the drink from a female liaison, Thomas Lee, besides his astonishment, breathed a sigh of relief.

    Everything seemed to fall silent for a moment, and the attention shifted towards Elliana.

    In a little ck dress, the beautifully curved sweetheart neckline making her slender waist seem barely grabbable.

    Jet-ck locks fell straight down, covering her swan-like neck, exuding a hint of sensual allure.

    Eleanor Llyod, not recognizing Elliana at this moment, watched as she stood alone in the center, seemingly someone President Bet had brought along.

    She waved warmly at Elliana, "Sister,e sit."

    Simultaneously, a distinctive man seated to Norman Bet¡¯s left also spoke up, pointing at Elliana, raising an attractive eyebrow with a mischievous grin, "Come here, sit on grandpa¡¯sp."

    With that, he pushed the woman beside him away, opening his arms for Elliana toe over.

    This man was vice-president of Tian Sa Group, named Tian Ming, and besides Norman Bet, the biggest investor in South Wind Song.

 Chapter 21 - 20: Mine

    <h4>Chapter 21: Chapter 20: Mine</h4>

    Elliana Lyle didn¡¯t like such an environment. Even though the private room was spacious and the sunlight streaming through the ss windows was bright enough, she hated these frivolous people.

    "Little beauty,e over." Tian Ming didn¡¯t see Elliana Lyleing over, and his tone was a bit displeased.

    This was someone Norman Bet brought along. Although she didn¡¯t seem important, he had to have some fun today, wanting to rub Norman Bet¡¯s spirit the wrong way.

    Tiensa Group¡¯s annual GDP ranking was on par with Virginia Gavin¡¯s level, but Tian Ming couldn¡¯t stand Norman Bet¡¯s superior attitude.

    But he forgot that Virginia Gavin was founded single-handedly by Norman Bet, whose family¡¯s Bet Group was top-notch globally, whereas behind Tian Ming was only his father¡¯s Tiensa.

    The wine ss in Norman Bet¡¯s hand seemed about to shatter the next second. His little girl, since when could others order her around?

    Before Norman Bet could speak up for her, Elliana Lyle directly walked to him, angrily sitting right in hisp.

    Like a protective creature fiercely eyeing the female publicists, almost ready to bare her teeth at them.

    "Get down." Norman Bet was a bit taken aback seeing the little girl in his arms.

    Elliana Lyle pretended not to hear, instead burrowing further into the man¡¯s embrace.

    Those who knew Norman Bet gasped; did this girl have a death wish?

    But then they immediately thought of someone, the Lyle family¡¯s daughter, Elliana Lyle.

    Norman Bet didn¡¯t say anything more, just let the little girl hold onto him.

    "Get out, all of you!" Raymond Wood shouted at the female publicists.

    "Mr. Bet, thisdy must be Miss Lyle, right? Didn¡¯t I hear Miss Lyle wants to call off the engagement with you? For whom, exactly?" Tian Ming continued talking as he thought seriously.

    Then, as if he remembered, with a mocking tone, "Wasn¡¯t it said that Miss Lyle wanted to call off the engagement for Shane Southwell? So, thisdy must not be Miss Lyle, but your new me, Mr. Bet?"

    Yates Zander, an artist under White Goose, heard Tian Ming¡¯s sarcasm and naturally had to speak up for his boss, "Mr. Tian, it¡¯s just media spection, and you understand that the media is naturally unreliable."

    "Did I speak to you?" Tian Ming was greatly dissatisfied when a male artist interrupted.

    Elliana Lyle also looked at the person speaking for her, as if she had seen him somewhere, and then she remembered, it was the man who had helped her once at Virginia¡¯s.

    No wonder he looked familiar; he was Yates Zander, who had acted in romantic dramas before.

    Seeing the two biggest investors getting tense, Thomas Lee quickly spoke to mediate, "Mr. Bet, let me introduce you to Miss Eleanor Llyod, our leadingdy of South Wind Song."

    "Hmm." Norman Bet didn¡¯t even spare Eleanor Llyod a nce from beginning to end.

    Eleanor Llyod stood up, giving a sweet smile, dimples appearing on her cheeks, and her light mint green chiffon dress full of dreamy vibes.

    The style was quite ordinary, a strapless design, but the fresh color, extremely lightweight fabric, and the scattered sequin decorations on the hem gave the dress a mythical, fairy-tale-like ambiance.

    This was Eleanor Llyod¡¯s favorite outfit, as pure as a fairy-tale princess, making her look very clean at first sight.

    "Hello, Mr. Bet, I¡¯m Eleanor Llyod." Eleanor Llyod¡¯s voice was as sweet as a snow pear, polite and graceful.

    Elliana Lyle just stared at Eleanor Llyod, wanting to peel her skin off.

    In her past life, she had owned a cat, and Eleanor Llyod had deliberately dug her nails into the cat¡¯s eyes, then, after her arm was scratched by the cat, her cat was in such pain that it rolled on the ground.

    Then Shane Southwell came, and Eleanor Llyod, the viin,ined first. She watched helplessly as the cat was stomped to death by the furious Shane Southwell.

    Feeling the little girl¡¯s body stiffen, Norman Bet saw the tightly clenched fists of Elliana Lyle, red liquid oozing through her fingers.

    The more Elliana Lyle hated Eleanor Llyod, the more it seemed to him that Elliana Lyle loved Shane Southwell.

    Thomas Lee quietly judged Elliana Lyle, and for a moment, he thought Elliana Lyle was more suited to being an actress than Eleanor Llyod.

    Both had simr temperaments, the difference being that Elliana Lyle was more genuine.

    ¨D¨D¨DLotus Park, Whisper Caf¨¦.

    Shane Southwell had already been waiting for three hours, with Cari sending countless messages to Elliana Lyle.

    Cari: "Deputy Manager, still no reply from Elliana Lyle."

    "Elliana Lyle, you¡¯d better be dead!" Shane Southwell¡¯s gaze was icy; no one had ever made him wait this long.

    No matter how angry he felt, whenever he thought of Elliana Lyle getting the money, Shane Southwell decided to wait a bit longer.

    Half an hourter.

    Eleanor Llyod sent a message to Shane Southwell.

    Little Ellie: "Brother Shane, I saw Elliana Lyle today with Norman Bet, although I¡¯m not sure if it was really her."

    This messagepletely drove Shane Southwell out of control; he flipped the table, not forgetting to kick it once more.

    "Sir! What are you doing? You¡¯ll have to pay for the damages." The staff hurried to stop Shane Southwell from flipping another table.

    The other customers looked at Shane Southwell with curiosity; how could such a well-dressed person have no manners?

    "Get lost!" Shane Southwell was terrifyingly fierce, pping the staff hard before turning to leave.

    "Oh my God, how can someone be like this?"

    A girl held up her phone recording a video; if she uploaded it online, it would surely go viral.

    The other staff helped the pped employee up while the store manager started calling the police.

    "Hello, 110? We¡¯re at..."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    PM.

    Elliana Lyle had already followed Norman Bet back, and her hand was also bandaged.

    "Go rest, I¡¯ll have Lana send you back tomorrow." After saying this, Norman Bet had no further words and was about to turn and leave.

    Elliana Lyle couldn¡¯t understand, what was wrong with Norman Bet today?

    And what did he mean by saying he didn¡¯t like people lying? She didn¡¯t feel like she had lied at all.

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she got. As Norman Bet reached the door, she couldn¡¯t help but shout, "Norman Bet, exin yourself, when did I lie?"

    "I told you to go rest." Norman Bet repeated his earlier words, his tone now colder.

    "What do you mean? Exin yourself, when did I lie?" Elliana Lyle¡¯s temper red as she stood there, a stubborn look in her eyes.

    She didn¡¯t believe she had lied, and she didn¡¯t know what had upset Norman Bet to make him treat her like this.

    Seeing that Norman Bet didn¡¯t speak, Elliana Lyle¡¯s eyes started to sting, tears welled up uncontrobly, the first time she¡¯d felt wronged since her rebirth.

    "Get some rest, I¡¯ll send you to the airport first thing in the morning."

    As soon as the words were spoken, all that remained was the sound of the door closing.

    "Miss Lyle, would you like something to drink?" Lana couldn¡¯t bear to see Elliana Lyle like this.

    Even she felt that Mr. Bet had gone too far.

    Elliana Lyle just stood there, silent, biting her lip to stop herself from crying.

    After a long while, she wiped away her tears, only saying softly, "Lana, you go rest, don¡¯t worry about me."

    "What?" Lana wasn¡¯t unclear about what she heard; she wanted tofort Elliana Lyle, but the one who upset her was Norman Bet, and she didn¡¯t know how tofort her.

    "Lana, just go rest, I want to be alone for a while. If I¡¯m hungry, I¡¯ll call you." Elliana Lyle¡¯s voice was faint, and even a bit despondent.

    Lana pursed her lips and replied, "Alright, Miss Lyle, I¡¯ll take my leave then."

    After saying that, Lana returned to the maid¡¯s room.

    Elliana Lyle sniffed, turning around to sit by the bay window, but then she noticed the wine rack on the wall.

    She rarely drank alcohol and wasn¡¯t good at it, but she remembered apanying Nancy for some Erguotou in high school, and although it was hard to swallow, once drunk, it made everything feel light and forgetful.

    An hourter.

    Lana was still a bit worried and quietly opened the door to check, only to be horrified seeing Elliana Lyle drinking by the bay window.

    No less than two empty bottlesy on the floor, and Elliana Lyle sat on the floor, hugging a bottle of red wine, pouring it into her mouth.

    "Miss Lyle! You can¡¯t drink!" Lana hurried over to stop her without thinking.

 Chapter 22 - 21: Elliana

    <h4>Chapter 22: Chapter 21: Elliana</h4>

    "Miss Lyle,e on, let me help you up."

    Elliana Lyle was very light, which made it easy for Lana to help her onto the sofa.

    "Miss Lyle, I¡¯ll get some warm water to wipe your body, you sit for a moment." Lana was about to leave when Elliana grabbed her wrist.

    "Norman Bet, don¡¯t leave... don¡¯t leave... sob sob~..." Elliana whimpered, staggered to her feet, feeling like her whole body was being supported by soft clouds, wanting to lean but couldn¡¯t steady herself.

    "I¡¯m not leaving, I¡¯m right here, don¡¯t be afraid." Lana held Elliana steadily, gently soothing her agitated emotions.

    Elliana said nothing more, only clung to Lana and sobbed.

    "Come, let¡¯s sit for a while."

    Lana gently helped Elliana to sit down, noticing how Elliana¡¯s gaze was unfocused on the floor, but her emotions had calmed down somewhat.

    "Miss Lyle, I¡¯m going to the bathroom to get some warm water to wipe your body, I won¡¯t go far." Lana said, turning back every few steps towards the bathroom, worriedly.

    The sound of rushing water soon came from the bathroom.

    "Miss Lyle!" When Lana emerged with the water, Elliana was no longer on the sofa, and the door was open!

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City, Blue Night Bar.

    The environment here was dim, with only faint glimmers of light, not so dark as to be unseen, nor so bright as to see clearly.

    Unlike other lively bars, this one was rather quiet, with soothing music, ideal for conversations.

    "Bro, whye here? It¡¯s so quiet, wouldn¡¯t it be better to get a booth with me?" The voice sounded somewhat immature, full of youthful energy.

    It was Zane Bet, Norman¡¯s younger brother, looking like his elder brother but with a different personality.

    "Bro, say something, is it Grandfather who sent you to find me?" Upon saying this, Zane turned his head in displeasure, "I¡¯m not going back."

    Then Zane looked excitedly at Norman, eyes gleaming: "Bro, let me tell you, my friends and I are working on a game that will soon be in beta testing."

    "Mm." Norman responded barely, downing his drink in one gulp.

    Zane immediately lost his previous excitement, his brother was always so boring, as if nothing ever pleased him.

    "Bro, you¡¯ve only said three words to me so far, not even three sentences, why call me out?" Zane couldn¡¯t help butin, feeling like he was acting in a solo y.

    "You can leave." Norman said coldly, swallowing ss after ss of alcohol.

    Zane was taken aback, haughtily saying, "I... I¡¯m not leaving."

    Then jokingly asked, "Bro, are you in a bad mood? Did your wife run off with someone? Oh wait, bro you haven¡¯t..."

    As Zane spoke, there was a sudden bang, which startled him into silence.

    Norman¡¯s ss hit the table heavily, sttering his hand with liquor.

    "..." Zane pursed his lips, not daring to make a sound; among the Bet Family, his brother¡¯s temper was the scariest.

    Silence reigned, the atmosphere tense, as Norman stared at the chipped bottom of the star-shaped cup, his grip tightening painfully.

    Zane internally grumbled: called me out, then scolded me, what if I leave?

    He knew he had touched his brother¡¯s sore spot, guessed it was that wretched girl Elliana running off with Shane again.

    Suddenly, a phone started ringing, Zane instinctively covered his pocket, finding it wasn¡¯t his, then cautiously pointed at Norman: "Bro, your phone is ringing."

    Seeing Norman not reacting, he leaned closer: "Should I answer for you?"

    He took Norman¡¯s phone, seeing it was an unknown number, which was typical as Norman never saved contacts.

    "Hello, you¡¯re speaking to Norman Bet."

    "Young Master, it¡¯s Lana, Miss Lyle got drunk and ran out while I was fetching warm water, I¡¯ve searched everywhere but can¡¯t find her." A worried voice on the other end.

    Miss Lyle? Must be Elliana.

    Zane touched his nose, handing the phone to Norman: "Someone named Lana says your wife got drunk and ran off."

    In an instant, Norman grabbed the phone and dashed out of the private room, his speed akin to a sprint, leaving Zane momentarily stunned.

    He hurriedly shouted towards the door: "Bro, settle the bill before you go! I¡¯m broke!"

    ...

    Lana was already waiting at the hotel entrance, tears unable to stop streaming, hands clenched nervously.

    Luckily, Norman wasn¡¯t far away, returning within mere minutes.

    "Young Master, it¡¯s all my fault for not watching over Miss Lyle, all my fault..." Lana med herself, bowing her head.

    Norman said nothing, leading Raymond Wood to the surveince room.

    Despite his outward calm and indifference, his heart trembled underneath.

    Through the surveince, they saw Elliana initially take the elevator straight to the lobby.

    "Norman Bet~ where are you?" Elliana, eyes red from crying, looked around the bustling lobby.

    Her singr thought now was to find Norman Bet.

    However, at this moment, she was coincidentally encountered by Shane Southwell.

    "Elliana!" Cari looked at Shane in surprise.

    Elliana now, in a seductive strapless little ck dress, exuded enchanting charm, especially her flushed face and dreamy eyes from intoxication, enticing any man.

    Of course, Shane wasn¡¯t immune either, though annoyed at Elliana for standing him up, seeing her now, he was less angry.

    He used to think of her as a mere kid, since when did she be so alluring?

    "Take her to my room, I want to have a ¡¯good talk¡¯ with her!" Shane¡¯s eyes carried a sinister gleam; making him wait all afternoon deserved some consequences.

    Cari obeyed reluctantly, coaxing and tricking Elliana away.

    Though puzzled, Cari noticed Shane¡¯s obvious interest in Elliana.

    Shane preferred tall, leggy beauties, except for Eleanor Llyod, possibly because Elliana wasn¡¯t dressed childishly like before today.

    In the surveince room.

    Raymond promptly spoke for Elliana: "Mr. CEO, Miss Lyle clearly didn¡¯t want to, we..."

    "Bring the men."

    Norman led Raymond and several bodyguards towards Shane¡¯s room, 402.

    Norman¡¯s gaze was dark; no matter what, Elliana was his, nobody could take her, even if she was a deceitful little brat.

    Room 420.

    Cari pressed Elliana onto the sofa, Shane sat opposite, staring at her.

    "I¡¯ll ask you one more time, where¡¯s the money?"

    Elliana gave no response, only cried incessantly: "I want Norman Bet, I want Norman Bet~ sob sob."

    "Ha, Norman Bet? I¡¯ll ask you onest time, where¡¯s the money!" Shane raised his voice, evidently out of patience.

    "Vice President, please don¡¯t be angry, Miss Lyle is drunk." Cari soothed.

    Shane shrugged off his jacket, tossing it aside, approached Elliana step by step, holding her chin, forcing her to look up.

    Shane curled his lips into a smile: "What do you think Norman would do if I uploaded a video after sleeping with you?"

    At this moment, the door made noises and was then opened.

    Outside, Raymond held back several bodyguards: "I¡¯ll let you in, only then you go in."

    Seeing Norman, Cari stood up in fright: "How... how did you get in!"

    Elliana, held by Shane, kept pleading: "I want Norman Bet, I want..."

    Shane looked up at the man approaching him, provocatively saying: "Oh, isn¡¯t this the famous... ugh!"

    Before Shane could finish his taunt, his face took a solid punch, sending him sprawling to the floor.

    "Ah!!!" Cari screamed in fear, stepping back repeatedly.

    Norman, taking off his jacket, wrapped it around Elliana, picked her up, face stern, walked out without a word.

    "Spit!" Shane spat blood onto the floor, arge tooth followed.

    Raymond saw Norman leaving, instructed several bodyguards: "Make sure he pays dearly."

 Chapter 23 - 22: Drunken Nonsense

    <h4>Chapter 23: Chapter 22: Drunken Nonsense</h4>

    Elliana Lyle hid in the man¡¯s arms, but cried even more fiercely. However, she did not struggle, because this was Norman Bet, the one who made her feel at ease.

    All the way back to the suite, Norman Bet did not say a word.

    However, the little girl in his arms was clinging on tightly, so Norman Bet had no choice but to keep holding her.

    Lana, worried yet perceptive, quietly returned to the nanny¡¯s room, ready to take orders at any time.

    After a while, Norman Bet spoke the first sentence: "Have you cried enough?"

    The little girl in his arms was still sobbing uncontrobly. Norman Bet forced her to lift her head: "Look at me, stop crying."

    "Ugh~" Elliana¡¯s eyes were timid when she saw Norman Bet¡¯s cold face, as if she was truly frightened. She obediently stopped crying but couldn¡¯t help but sob.

    "Girl." Norman Bet softened his tone, his big hand smoothing out the messy strands of hair on her small face.

    Norman Bet gazed seriously at that flushed little face, speaking with certainty: "You can¡¯t escape now. For the rest of your life, you can only marry me."

    "Norman Bet, I didn¡¯t lie... I didn¡¯t lie." Elliana was drunk and hazy, seemingly not registering Norman Bet¡¯s words. She stubbornly wanted to know where she went wrong.

    "Ugh... Exin clearly, where did I lie? Why did you abandon me? Why do you also bully me, ugh..." The more she asked, the more aggrieved she felt. Elliana was immersed in her own world, lost in grief.

    She continued toment: "Shane Southwell killed my parents. Eleanor Llyod killed my cat, and now you don¡¯t want me either..."

    "What?" Norman Bet was obviously taken aback. He remembered the little girl had confidently said it was murder on the day of the aunt¡¯s car ident.

    "I shouldn¡¯t have married Shane Southwell... I finally reincarnated, prevented... my parents¡¯ car ident, finally..." Elliana spoke intermittently, striving to confide in Norman Bet.

    These words sounded like drunken babbling. Norman Bet pressed his thin lips together, quietly listening to the little girl¡¯s confessions in his arms.

    Elliana pouted, gesturing with her hands: "I bought a cat at Jiajia Pets, it was a white cat, with pink ears... I called it Lilypad."

    "But... butter, Eleanor Llyod gouged out its eyes, and Shane Southwell stomped it to death. At that time, I couldn¡¯t protect it, Lilypad died, Lilypad died..."

    His little girl seemed to have experienced many things, suffered many grievances, and now was trembling with sobs, crying so much that it broke his heart.

    "Shh, don¡¯t cry, I¡¯m here. I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you." Norman Bet held her tightly, letting the little girl¡¯s face bury in his chest.

    Rebirth is something Norman Bet didn¡¯t quite believe in, but he believed in Elliana.

    "Norman Bet~ Don¡¯t leave, okay? Don¡¯t leave... cough cough! Cough cough..."

    Ugh~

    Red liquid was vomited onto both of them. If it weren¡¯t for the smell of red wine and the wine bottle by the bay window, Norman Bet might have been scared to death by this girl.

    "Lana, take her to clean up." Norman Bet had always had a touch of a cleanliness obsession, although he found it hard to bear, he tolerated it because it was Elliana.

    Lana, always ready for action, quickly ran over, took Elliana from Norman Bet¡¯s arms, and carried her to the bathroom.

    The next day.

    "Elliana, how could you drink so much? I was terrified when I got the news." Joy Lyle patiently wiped her forehead, her tone full of concern despite its questioning nature.

    Elliana, lying t on the bed, felt like a dead fish. She didn¡¯t want to move, feeling like her brain would scatter with any movement.

    She couldn¡¯t remember what happenedst night, but she remembered Norman Bet leaving, and scolding her indiscriminately again.

    "Sis, I¡¯m thirsty." Elliana licked her lips and said.

    "Alright."

    Joy Lyle picked up a cup of water, using a small spoon, she took only a little water and slowly ced it at Elliana¡¯s lips, the water flowing down her tongue and throat.

    "You~ always like a little child, tell me, why did you suddenly drink so much?" Joy Lyle¡¯s tone was always gentle and soothing.

    The thought of Norman Bet gave Elliana a headache. Unable to resist, sheined to Joy Lyle: "He suddenly went crazy and yelled at me, said I was lying, and wanted to send me back. I don¡¯t even know what I did wrong."

    "Lying?"

    Joy Lyle¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, then sheforted: "Elliana, Norman is not an unreasonable person. Are you hiding something from him?"

    "Do I have..." Elliana was about to retort when she suddenly went quiet.

    Hiding something... Elliana recalled carefully. It seemed that Norman Bet¡¯s attitude changed after she went to the restroom.

    After returning to the room, she saw a message from Shane Southwell on her phone.

    ...

    Could it be that Norman Bet saw it too?

    No wonder Norman wanted to take her to meet the director in the afternoon. It turned out he didn¡¯t want her to meet Shane Southwell, but... she hadn¡¯t intended to meet Shane Southwell anyway!

    Now this misunderstanding is huge!

    "Sis, where is Norman Bet? I need to find him!" Elliana, despite her headache, just wanted to quickly find Norman Bet to rify.

    "He¡¯s outside, hey! Elliana, slow down!" Joy Lyle, without regard for anything else, hurried to follow.

    Elliana held her phone, wobbling and running to the living room, and sure enough, Norman Bet was sitting on the sofa, holding a document, but his eyes were on her.

    "Norman Bet, I¡¯m telling you, I didn¡¯t lie." She quickly ran over, sat next to the man, opened her phone, and showed the chat record with Shane Southwell.

    "Look!"

    Seeing Norman Bet¡¯s face turnpletely dark, Elliana quickly exined: "I tricked him. I wasn¡¯t going there in the afternoon, really. I knew he was short on money and was afraid he¡¯d find someone else to get money through, so I lied and said I¡¯d arrange money for him, but I wasn¡¯t going to give him any money."

    The little girl¡¯s speech was astonishingly fast, like a tongue twister, but Norman Bet understood.

    "Do you understand?" Elliana looked at Norman Bet expectantly. If he didn¡¯t understand, she could say it again.

    ...

    ¡ª¡ªNorth City Central Hospital.

    Shane Southwelly on the hospital bed, wearing a blue and white striped hospital gown, his right leg in a cast, no part of his face unscathed.

    Yesterday, the bank loan was barely paid off, but today is thest day for payment to the production team.

    Cari sat by the hospital bed, watching Shane Southwell with a worried face. She was still in shock, thankful that those people didn¡¯t hit her yesterday.

    "Vice President, why not... tell the president the truth, otherwise..." Cari was worried, if the payment can¡¯t be made today, they risk breaching the contract, and it would cause significant trouble for Rnd.

    Dong, dong dong!

    The hospital room door was knocked, and Cari, thinking it was the doctor, said: "Come in!"

    Click!

    The door opened, and two uniformed police officers walked in, presenting their credentials to Shane Southwell: "Are you Mr. Shane Southwell? Pleasee with us for a..." They didn¡¯t finish the word "trip".

    The two police officers looked at each other in surprise. ording to surveince, this person was smashing things and hitting people in a caf¨¦ yesterday. How could he be lying here today? And so severely injured!

    "Officer, what¡¯s going on..." Cari looked at the two police officers, puzzled.

    "We received a report from the caf¨¦ that you damaged tables and chairs and hit an employee. Mr. Shane Southwell, your actions constitute provoking and causing trouble."

    Shane Southwell had already been upset after being beaten up by Norman Bet¡¯s men. Now, with the police causing trouble, he was furious, his eyes practically bulging out.

    "Sir, ring at us won¡¯t help. You¡¯ve already broken thew. Given your current condition, we¡¯re going to take your statement here." The police officer said.

    Two hourster, Cari saw the police off, promising on behalf of Shane Southwell to pay for damages and apologize where necessary.

    "Vice President, it¡¯s still best to tell the president. The president must have a solution." Cari advised once again. This fund had already been allocated, but Shane Southwell gambled and bought luxury goods for Eleanor Llyod, spending it all.

    Initially, they hoped Elliana would help, but now, it¡¯s out of the question. The two of them were in a panic like ants on a hot pan.

    "Go, get... a loan, find Tyrant Dragon!" Shane Southwell said with some difficulty.

    This Tyrant Dragon was a loan shark, and Cari shook her head vigorously after hearing it: "Vice President, I¡¯ll go talk to the president, you rest well."

    Cari said this and walked out of the hospital room. She didn¡¯t care how angry Shane Southwell would be, because that loan shark was not to be borrowed from, even though she knew Shane Southwell and Tyrant Dragon were close.

 Chapter 24 - 23: Norman Bennett

    <h4>Chapter 24: Chapter 23: Norman Bet</h4>

    "Hey, Mr. President, it¡¯s Cari, about the vice president..."

    Cari carefully exined the situation to Cameron Southwell, hinting at the loss of money, but Cameron¡¯s angry shouts still came from the other end of the line.

    "You prodigal son! Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know, you must¡¯ve gambled it away again. Where is he? Get him to answer the phone!" Cameron was nearly bursting with anger, and even though the Southwell Family had some wealth, they couldn¡¯t withstand Shane¡¯s wastefulness.

    And the matter of Shane embezzling two million inpany funds had just been covered up, and now this!

    Cari held the phone a bit away from her ear, awkwardly saying, "Mr. President, the vice president is not in a good position to take the call."

    It¡¯s not just inconvenient, Shane can¡¯t take it at all; he had several teeth knocked out and finds it hard to speak.

    Even if he recovers, he probably won¡¯t grow new teeth and will need imnts.

    The thought of the usually cool and handsome Shane grinning with a mouthful of shiny gold teeth made her want tough.

    "Speak up! Why can¡¯t he answer my call? He¡¯s got the guts to spend, but not to face the consequences!" Cameron¡¯s anger made him curse even himself.

    Cari quicklyposed herself and said softly, "Mr. President, yesterday the vice president was..." She hesitated for a moment.

    It was Norman Bet¡¯s people, and with the Bet Group backing him, even telling Cameron would be pointless.

    Cameron: "What happened? Don¡¯t speak so hesitantly!"

    "The vice president was beaten up by Norman Bet¡¯s people yesterday, and he¡¯s currently at North City Central Hospital," Cari had no choice but to tell the truth.

    Cameron: "What? Norman Bet?"

    He sounded surprised but then realized it wasn¡¯t all that strange.

    Cameron already guessed it was about that girl Elliana Lyle.

    After all, Elliana¡¯s pursuit of Shane was widely known across the country.

    Though Shane wasn¡¯t an entertainer, his good looks made him a hot topic in the media, so he¡¯s quite famous.

    However, Shane hadn¡¯t been appearing in public muchtely.

    After some time, Cari heard a sigh from the other end of the call.

    Cameron couldn¡¯t stand up for his son, and even knowing it was Norman, there was nothing he could do.

    After all, Rnd wasn¡¯t even worth a fart in the Bet Family¡¯s eyes.

    Hearing their president¡¯s sigh, Cari pursed her lips, feeling a bit disdainful.

    Cameron: "Forget it, I¡¯ll let his mother visit him. I¡¯ll figure out the fund transfer; you take care of him for now, make sure he doesn¡¯t stir up more trouble."

    "Okay, Mr. President."

    But given Shane¡¯s current state, she didn¡¯t really need to look after him.

    After Cameron gave a nomittal response, he hung up.

    Sitting in the executive chair, Cameron suddenly looked much older, his stern yet kindly face almost sagging to the floor.

    He tiredly rubbed his brow, unwilling to say a word, only wishing he could string up his unfilial son and beat him.

    But at his age, in his forties, he only had Shane, who was brought up spoiled and pampered.

    After a long time, he picked up the phone and dialed his wife¡¯s number, but the moment it connected, he hastily handed the phone to his assistant.

    He couldn¡¯t bear to hear his wife¡¯s wailing, especially since they hadn¡¯t seen each other in months and he didn¡¯t know how to broach the topic.

    Meanwhile, Cari also breathed a sigh of relief. The publication and distribution of South Wind Song should have been Rnd¡¯s, but because of thepany¡¯s financial strain, there was constant indecision.

    This led White Goose Studios to snatch the publishing and distribution first. If Rnd breached the contract in such a loss, thepany¡¯s shareholders would certainly raise hell.

    Thankfully, the president agreed to help, though he had little choice.

    ¨D¨D¨D Vicars Hotel.

    Today, Norman Bet was almost free and rxed, as Joy Lyle, seeing the two of them reconcile, found an excuse of reading a script to leave.

    Elliana suddenly felt very sorry for Joy, knowing that if Rnd was kicked out, Joy, as an artist for Rnd, would also be ousted.

    But there¡¯s no perfect solution in the world, so she nned that after Joy¡¯s contract with Rnd ended, she¡¯d have Norman sign Joy over.

    "Norman, how¡¯d things go with what you promised me?" Elliana sat in the man¡¯sp, eager to know the result.

    She knew Norman was capable of it.

    "I said I would do it, and I won¡¯t make false promises."

    With Norman¡¯s reassurance, Elliana no longer worried about this issue. Once Rnd breached the contract, those shareholders wouldn¡¯t tolerate Shane.

    Though she knew Shane¡¯s father, Cameron Southwell, would cover for him, it wouldn¡¯t be without cost.

    Now her biggest worry was Luna.

    This Luna disappeared after taking the money, which understandably left her uneasy.

    "What? Worried?" Sensing the girl¡¯s distraction, Norman asked.

    Elliana was a bit startled, then chuckled.

    "No, when you handle things, I¡¯m confident."

    After yesterday¡¯s conflict, Elliana savored the current happiness, wishing Norman would never get angry again.

    This was good enough.

    She carefully cupped the man¡¯s face, finding it pleasing no matter how she looked at it, wondering how there could be such a handsome man in the world?

    Especially those soft, thin lips, appearing very kissable.

    "Norman, can I kiss you?" Elliana licked her lips with a grin.

    But she didn¡¯t realize her appearance deeply attracted him then.

    While waiting for an answer, Elliana suddenly found her head held by a pair ofrge hands.

    The cool, fragrant lips pressed down, and Elliana¡¯s breath quickened, caught off guard by the action.

    Her hands climbed to the man¡¯s neck, gripping lightly, as her head tipped back instinctively, responding clumsily yet passionately.

    When the man gently released her, she found herself lying on the sofa.

    Feeling nervous, Elliana suddenly found it thrilling, her big, almond eyes wide open, watching Norman intently.

    In truth, she was already dazed.

    Seeing the man¡¯s passionate gaze, Elliana only felt her heart drop into a void. The man¡¯s desire made her afraid.

    Seeing Norman about toe down again, she hastily raised her hand and shouted, "Norman, I need to go to the bathroom!"

    With that, she quickly pushed him off and scrambled up, running into the room like a frightened kitten.

    "Whew!" Norman was suddenly inexplicably annoyed, striding into the bathroom.

    Elliana hid inside, the lingering fear still present. It really scared her earlier; if she hadn¡¯t left, she might have frozen entirely.

    The bathroom was devoid of steam; the cool water from the showerhead trickled down the man¡¯s face.

    It took a long, long while before everything quieted down.

 Chapter 25 - 24: Refusal of Payment

    <h4>Chapter 25: Chapter 24: Refusal of Payment</h4>

    After finally calming down, Elliana Lyley in bed and didn¡¯t want to move at all, just like a salted fish.

    The girl¡¯s heart was always full of expectation, yet a bit afraid and shy.

    Buzz buzz~

    As she was thinking about all sorts of random things, her phone vibrated.

    She quickly opened it, and it was a message from Luna.

    Detective Luna: "I¡¯m heading to ind, going to North City, we can meet if it¡¯s convenient, also, I¡¯m out of money."

    Detective Luna: "I found some substantial information for you, along with the victim¡¯s contact info, but there¡¯s no progress on George Lyle yet, we¡¯ll have to wait patiently."

    Below were the files sent by Luna, which couldn¡¯t be opened by phone, but required aputer.

    Remembering that the study was next door, Elliana Lyle tip-toed to open the room door and carefully stepped out.

    Lana was brewing tea not far away, and Elliana gestured outside with her hand, asking where Norman Bet was.

    She really didn¡¯t want to run into Norman Bet right now, how awkward.

    Lana smiled slightly and pointed behind her.

    She instinctively turned around but saw no one. Lana meant that Norman Bet was in the study!

    This wasn¡¯t good, where would she find aputer? She had no choice but to walk over to Lana.

    Norman Bet had aptop, and since the desktop was in the study, she might as well ask Lana to get theptop for her.

    "Lana, could you help me get theptop from Norman Bet¡¯s room, please?"

    "Huh?" Lana was a bit surprised, as she had no idea what just happened between Elliana Lyle and Norman Bet, having been out getting fruit.

    "Oh, Lana, I¡¯m begging you~." Elliana Lyle shook Lana¡¯s arm.

    Lana could only reluctantly agree.

    The study.

    "Young master, Miss Elliana wants to use yourptop and asked me to get it from you." Lana put down the teacup and said.

    Norman Bet¡¯s eyebrows furrowed slightly and said, "Mm."

    It seemed he agreed.

    Lana carefully carried theptop out of the study and knocked on the master bedroom door.

    "Lana, thank you, love you~!" Elliana Lyle happily took it and couldn¡¯t wait to get back into bed.

    Upon opening the files, the first thing she saw was the personal information of William Lee and Adrian Young, which was quite thorough, even their hobbies were listed.

    "Both have a penchant for angelic girls, inviting 16-17-year-old girls every Friday to audition for Rnd¡¯s contracted artists."

    As she flipped further, Elliana Lyle¡¯s expression gradually became serious...

    ...

    --- 6 PM, White Goose Studios Ltd.

    The dry climate of North City made the weather even hotter. Wrapped in a standard work suit, Cari¡¯s curvaceous body seemed elegant, yet beads of sweat had already formed on her back.

    Today was truly unlucky; Cameron Southwell¡¯s online banking went down and needed to be reprocessed at the bank. Due to therge amount, the review had to wait until tomorrow.

    Now she had to personally run over to White Goose to deal with it, only to find that there wasn¡¯t even a parking spot nearby, forcing her to park further away and walk over.

    Upon reaching the White Goose finance department, after asking around, she was told to wait a while. Cari could only sit and wait, but after half an hour, no one even acknowledged her.

    Unable to sit still, Cari stopped a passing handsome young man, looking to be in his early twenties, dressed in neat work attire, seeming like a newbie.

    Cari politely said, "Could you please find out how much longer the cashier will be busy?"

    "Sure, I¡¯ll ask for you." The man, named William Lee, the cashier assistant, agreed.

    Another half hour passed, and by evening, 7 PM, Cari was anxious, with her long legs crossed and her fingers tightly interlocked.

    Just then, William Lee slowly rounded the corner, initially smiling, "Sorry for the wait, we were too busy earlier. But you¡¯ll have to wait a little longer."

    Hearing this, Cari¡¯s delicate brows furrowed into an inverted V, nearly bursting out in frustration, but she barely managed to hold it in, forcing a gentle smile and trying to reason.

    "I have an urgent matter, please, can you make an exception?" She added with a single-shoulder shrug and a slight head tilt, looking impossibly charming.

    "Cough! Sorry, please hang on a bit longer. If you¡¯re really busy, why not head back first?"

    William Lee nearly lost hisposure, quickly pulling himself together, feigning indifference.

    "Could you please ask again, I¡¯m begging you." Cari swallowed her frustration, still smiling charmingly.

    "No can do, miss, you¡¯ll have to wait." William Lee replied.

    Helpless, Cari had no choice but to continue waiting.

    She nced at the time, hoping... she¡¯d get there in time.

    --- Finance Department.

    Treasurer Yang Tuo was a thirty-year-old professional woman, her hair neatly parted in the middle, wearing a bean paste-colored lipstick. Her dimples when she smiled gave a very friendly impression.

    She was eating her just-arrived takeout, seeing someone enter through the door, she cheerfully asked, "Little Li, did she leave?"

    "Not yet, she¡¯s stubborn. I think she¡¯s a prettydy and suggested she head back, but she just wouldn¡¯t go." William Lee chuckled and shrugged helplessly.

    They both knew full well that today the funds must not be sessfully transferred to Rnd.

    PM.

    Cari finally couldn¡¯t sit still. Thepany kept replying aboutwork dys, causing her to head straight to the finance department.

    William Lee appeared at the right moment, smiling, "Sorry for keeping you waiting."

    It seemed things were less busy now, and Cari lost her earlier momentum, politely smiling, "It¡¯s okay."

    "Please follow me."

    ...

    "Not epting checks? Why?" Cari shot up, her tone unkind, truly pushed to her limit today.

    However, Yang Tuo remained smiling, "Sorry, ourpany has a clear policy against epting checks."

    "What? You guys! You..." Cari was left speechless, her chest heaving with anger, her pretty face contorted with frustration.

    The atmosphere was momentarily tense. After silently cursing within, Cari regained herposure and sat back down.

    It was gettingte. She softened her tone, "I¡¯m really in a hurry this time, please make an exception."

    "I¡¯m really sorry, ourpany is cautious about receiving bad checks, hence the policy. If we epted one, I¡¯d be held ountable, and I can¡¯t afford that risk." Yang Tuo showed no signs of yielding, still smiling, making Cari feel as if her punches werending on cotton.

    Even though everyone knew clear as day that Cari wouldn¡¯t give a bad check, employees had to follow orders from above.

    Seeing Cari¡¯s defeated look, Yang Tuo suggested, "Maybe you shoulde back tomorrow. At this hour,rge transactions undergo bank review, likely getting postponed to tomorrow."

    Cari knew exactly it would be dyed to tomorrow! That¡¯s why she came today.

    Realizing half an hour had passed again, Cari reluctantly called Cameron Southwell for instructions.

    On the other end, as soon as he heard things hadn¡¯t progressed, he exploded. Rnd had already transferred funds, and if told tomorrow about a breach, he really wouldn¡¯t know how to exin to shareholders.

    This embezzlement of funds couldnd him in jail.

    Cameron Southwell: "Hand her the phone, I¡¯ll talk to her."

    "Please take a call." Cari handed her phone to Yang Tuo.

    Yang Tuo smiled and took the phone, answering it, "Hello, nice to talk to you."

    "Telling me is useless; why don¡¯t you try speaking with our president?" Yang Tuo¡¯s words were firm, her face maintaining the signature smile.

    No matter how infuriated the person on the other side became, Yang Tuo showed no sign ofpromising.

    This truly was infuriating to the extreme.

 Chapter 26 - 25: Sitting at Home, the Script Falls from the Sky

    <h4>Chapter 26: Chapter 25: Sitting at Home, the Script Falls from the Sky</h4>

    The next day.

    In the early morning, the clock stopped at 6 o¡¯clock, the sky was already bright, and the orange-yellow warm sun shone on the ss window.

    A ray of light sneaked through the gap in the curtain that hadn¡¯t been pulled properly.

    Elliana Lyle, still in her dreams, was quickly woken up by Lana.

    After washing up, she was groggily drinking the shrimp porridge prepared by Lana while listening to Norman Bet describing today¡¯s schedule to her. The more she listened, the more something didn¡¯t seem right.

    "Wait a minute! Why am I going to the crew?" Elliana finally realized, staring at the man with puzzlement.

    "Eleanor Llyod and Joy Lyle are both artists under Rnd, but due to Rnd¡¯s breach of contract, neither of them can continue acting. So the lead female role will be yed by you."

    Norman Bet said lightly while sipping coffee, as if it wasn¡¯t a big deal to him.

    However, for Elliana, it waspletely different. She had never acted before, not even as an extra, so how could she y the lead role!

    She immediately thought of Luna, feeling a bit excited: "Norman Bet, I can¡¯t do it. I¡¯m telling you, there¡¯s someone named Luna who¡¯s suitable for the female lead. You should find her instead."

    "The entire crew is waiting for you. If you don¡¯t go for a day, they¡¯ll wait a day. If you don¡¯t go for a month, they¡¯ll wait a month."

    Norman¡¯s meaning was very clear; he wanted her, and only her.

    "No... Norman Bet, I don¡¯t know how to act, and if I y the lead, I¡¯ll probably be scolded to death." Elliana looked at Norman with grievance, hoping he would give up.

    Norman finally looked up at her and spoke indifferently: "Aren¡¯t you an intern in your senior year? It¡¯s good to find something to do. If you can¡¯t, learn. I¡¯ll support you."

    Elliana: "..."

    Suddenly, the porridge didn¡¯t taste so good anymore. She felt like she was being pushed into something against her will, and Norman didn¡¯t seem to be joking.

    After thinking for a long time, she felt it was true, in her senior year of internship, she never chose where to intern. Being an artist under Norman seemed like a good idea.

    So, she smiled and asked, "Will you pay me a sry?"

    Norman didn¡¯t speak, gesturing with his eyes for her to look at the table.

    Only then did she notice a credit card on the corner of the table beside her, indicating she could spend freely.

    ying the lead female role, just learn if you can¡¯t, what¡¯s the big deal.

    "Alright, I¡¯ll give it a try. If it doesn¡¯t work, then you find Luna, okay?" Elliana took a step back and agreed, quickly picking up the bank card and putting it in her pocket.

    "Alright."

    Seeing Norman agree, Elliana continued to drink the porridge happily.

    Looks like she has to postpone a lot of things today. She had transferred ten thousand dors to Luna yesterday, as if the money had been burning a hole in her pocket.

    Originally, she nned to meet Luna today, but it seems she won¡¯t have time and will have to reschedule.

    ¨D¨D¨D North City, City Central Hospital.

    "Son, your dad has no conscience. You¡¯ve been beaten like this, and he doesn¡¯t care. Tell me, who¡¯s beaten you up like this?"

    A plump woman sat by Shane Southwell¡¯s hospital bed, exuding a worldly air, a living image of a wealthydy.

    If not for her eyes and nose being very simr to Shane Southwell, it would be hard to tell she was his mother with all those excess facial fats.

    The woman¡¯s name is Rosy Brooke, who most detests being called Lady Southwell, so usually, Cari can only call her Mrs. Brooke.

    Seeing Shane Southwell¡¯s face full of annoyance, Cari spoke up: "Mrs. Brooke, the vice president still needs to rest. You¡¯re tired from taking care of him, how about I help you take a break?"

    "Tell me, who beat my son like this? I must settle the score with them!" Mrs. Brooke insisted, her gaze fierce.

    There were two tall bodyguards standing behind her, giving Mrs. Brooke a lot of confidence.

    "This... I don¡¯t know either." Cari had to say that, otherwise, Mrs. Brooke would probably make a scene again.

    The Southwell Family sure has her worried; if it weren¡¯t for being paid and Shane Southwell being good to her, Cari would have wanted to quit long ago.

    Last night, the remittance didn¡¯t go through until midnight, which made Cameron Southwell scold her for several hours.

    "You don¡¯t know? What do you do then? How can you not know?" Mrs. Brooke couldn¡¯t stand being given the runaround and after hearing Cari¡¯s words, she was instantly furious.

    Ring ring ring¡«¡«

    That was Cari¡¯s phone ringing; she seized it like a lifeline and said to Mrs. Brooke, "Mrs. Brooke, I need to take a call, it¡¯s work-rted."

    Saying this, she hurriedly covered the phone and rushed outside; as she just stepped out of the ward, she heard a scream from inside.

    "Son¡« how can you be bullied like this!"

    This cry made Cari almost think Shane Southwell was gone and it was time to order a coffin.

    "Hello, Yates." Cari answered the phone in the hospital corridor.

    Yates: "Cari, this is bad. You need to check the headlines quickly."

    "Alright!" Cari¡¯s heart sank; what could be worse than Rnd¡¯s breach of contract and two artists being kicked out of the crew?

    Shocking! The long-missing national husband Shane Southwell was caught beating up a barista in a caf¨¦!

    Seeing this headline, Cari knew she had her work cut out for her, yet another wave crashing in.

    But this is a small matter; recently Shane was overshadowed by a celebrity named Yates Zander.

    It¡¯s been a while since paparazzi followed him.

    Plus, this video isn¡¯t very clear; with much obscured, and taken from a distance, it¡¯s even blurrier.

    That being the case, she had her ways.

    She had shot some PR material for Shane previously, which now coulde in handy.

    Cari edited a message and sent it to Yates.

    Solemn Statement

    At 17:20 on August 2, 2019, aizen maliciously fabricated and openly spread a "false video of Mr. Shane Southwell attacking a barista at a caf¨¦."

    This unfounded news enabled widespread misunderstandings and serious consequences for Mr. Southwell.

    Therefore, Rnd Group states: Regarding this malicious rumor, Rnd Group hasmissioned North City¡¯s Miller & Partners legal office to handle it seriously and investigate ording to thew!

    South City Rnd Entertainment Co., Ltd.

    Writing such items was second nature for Cari, and with deploying some inte trolls to spread it around, along with a fake surveince video showing Shane getting injured while rescuing a kitten on the riverbank, the issue would be settled.

    After arranging things, Cari opened the ward door, only to find Shane Southwell still in shock.

    "Son¡«"

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨D South City, Rnd Group.

    Rnd held an emergency shareholders meeting for this contract breach incident.

    Sitting at the head of the table, Cameron Southwell looked worried, remaining silent, merely listening to the shareholders arguing.

    Subsequently, among the shareholders with thergest shareholding, Matthew Lee looked at Cameron Southwell and asked, "President, this matter was originally handled by the vice president. He reassured us everything was settled, but now things have turned out this way. You owe us an exnation."

    "What exactly happened, the vice president must exin!" another shareholder spoke coldly.

    Only then did Cameron Southwell start to speak: "Everyone, the vice president is young and inexperienced, which led to this loss. Therefore, the penalty will be settled from my personal ount."

    "What do you mean by that?" someone asked.

    "President, if you don¡¯t give us a clear ount, we will take legal action." Matthew Lee¡¯s expression was serious, not a hint of joking.

    Cameron¡¯s brow furrowed; if this went to court, Shane would likely end up in jail.

    These shareholders, usually easy to talk to, were now all pressing him.

    Helplessly, Cameron said, "Everyone, please be patient. In three days, I will get to the bottom of this and give you an answer."

    Cameron spoke serenely, but his heart was racing; this three-day period was merely a stall tactic.

    This bunch of old foxes, now that they¡¯ve got him cornered, were relentless, and all their talk of righteousness was merely for the sake of profit.

    After the meeting, the assistant looked anxiously at Cameron and asked, "President, what should we do now?"

    "How did I end up with such a mess of a son!" Cameron mmed the table fiercely, wishing he could drag Shane over now and whip him with a belt.

 Chapter 27 - 26: Horizon

    <h4>Chapter 27: Chapter 26: Horizon</h4>

    It¡¯s now 7:40 in the morning, and Elliana Lyle just got into the car to go to the film set. Norman Bet wasn¡¯t able to apany her due to some matters.

    She quickly sent Luna a message about rescheduling for another day, and unsurprisingly, Luna started asking for money again.

    This time it wasn¡¯t much, just 79 bucks, iming it was for amodation. Elliana didn¡¯t hesitate and directly sent over a hundred, after all, Luna had shown some skills this month.

    "Miss Lyle, here¡¯s the script and cast information. You can have a look." Victor King said as he handed her the materials.

    Victor King is the agent Norman Bet found for her, a twenty-seven-year-old woman with short hair.

    She was sitting next to Elliana.

    Perhaps due to long-termck of sleep, her eyes often carried a dark gray hue. Her features were symmetrical, and her eyebrows were sharply arched, giving her a rather strict appearance.

    "Thanks." Elliana took the materials and script. She couldn¡¯t help but internally remark: That Norman Bet, preparing so thoroughly, might have long wanted her to take on this role.

    She first nced at the actor files. Many of them she recognized, having seen them on the big screen.

    Elliana up till now hadn¡¯t felt nervous; on the contrary, she saw this as an interesting challenge.

    Joy Lyle had mentioned before that some areas of the entertainment industry were quite chaotic, advising her to be careful.

    She felt there was nothing to fear, as with Norman Bet backing her, no one would dare bully her.

    Currently still far from the film set, after finishing the materials, she began flipping through the script for South Wind Song.

    The original novel for South Wind Song is called "Searching for the Lychee Pavilion," authored by the now Soutnd. She had glimpsed it before, as it¡¯s a time-travel fiction.

    AM.

    Arrived at the film set located in Horizon Film City, where various film crews shoot, known as the film capital.

    Near an ancient gate stood a man in a vest holding amunication device and a script, who immediately approached Elliana as she arrived.

    "Ah, Miss Lyle is here. Have you read the script I sent you?" Director Thomas Lee personally came to greet her, his attitude very courteous.

    Originally, Thomas Lee wasn¡¯t keen on swapping actors, but had it not been for meeting Elliana, he might not have agreed.

    Elliana, aside from not meeting the height requirement, matched the novel character in other ways ¡ª vivacious.

    But considering the character development of the female lead, Thomas Lee merely promised Elliana a trial; if it didn¡¯t work out, they¡¯d seek another actor.

    "Hello, Director Lee." Elliana politely extended her hand.

    Other actors had long been in position, having photographed their styling. They were either memorizing lines or practicing scenes.

    When Thomas Lee led Elliana in, it garnered everyone¡¯s attention.

    Everyone thought simrly: So this is the new lead actress. She looks fine and quite well-known, but Miss Lyle has never acted before. This film might flop.

    Before Elliana could acquaint herself with these people, Thomas Lee was eager to have her taken to an antique-styled room, to have her makeup and styling done.

    There wasn¡¯t any shooting on the first day, just styling and makeup, and getting acquainted with everyone, considered making connections.

    Some of these people were currently popr stars, and the male lead Yates Zander frequently ranked first on trending lists.

    People referred to him as Brother Zander.

    Elliana got along smoothly with them. Initially, everyone expected her to have a diva temperament, but she surprisingly had a pleasant personality.

    Just then, Yates Zander approached as Elliana was chatting with two actresses ying the female lead¡¯s maids.

    The slimmer, more intellectual-looking one was Lily White, and the lively, spirited one was named Liu Lianlian.

    "Elliana, shall we run through Scene 26?" Yates spoke by her side, his terms of address somewhat intimate.

    Her first meeting with Yates was back at Norman Bet¡¯spany, and it was a striking moment.

    "Huh? But... I haven¡¯t seen Scene 26 yet." Elliana said, quickly flipping through the script.

    Scene 26 is the male lead¡¯s first appearance at a poetry gathering, but seemingly... the male lead doesn¡¯t interact much with the female lead during the poetry event.

    Most of it involves acting with eye expressions.

    Usually, film sets shoot scenes with the least screen time first; once filmed, that person¡¯s part is wrapped up.

    "No worries, let¡¯s try it first¡ªthis is our first coboration." Yates¡¯s voice always carried an aura of a refined gentleman, making one feel at ease, and naturally, Elliana found it hard to refuse.

    But this genteel, eye shade warm as jade man really fit the role of the cold, iceberg male lead Timmothy?

    At least Elliana had this doubt.

    However, truth proved her overthinking; once in character, Yates¡¯s face shed all smiles, as if exuding coldness from within.

    Elliana briefly felt an urge to ask how he managed it.

    Minutester, they finished a round.

    "Elliana, you did great; we got it in one take." After the scene practice, Yates returned to his gentle demeanor, generously praised her.

    Honestly, Elliana seemed as if she had a knack for it, having genuinely assumed the role of female lead Christine Grey a moment ago.

    Maybe it was the setting and attire; after all, today Yates indeed looked like an ancient gentleman.

    "Yes indeed, Elliana, your performance was impressive just now," Liu Lianlian¡¯s eyes curved into crescents with a smile, a very endearing youngdy.

    Some rejoiced while others fretted.

    ¨D¨D¨DCentral Hospital in North City.

    It was 4 PM, Eleanor Llyod had heard the news and came to the hospital.

    On Twitter, Shane Southwell¡¯s statement was already released, followed by a top-trending video of Shane, the favored ¡¯national husband¡¯, getting injured saving a kitten.

    Netizens split into two factions, a fierce debate was on the verge of erupting.

    However, Eleanor Llyod knew deep-down what kind of person Shane really was.

    "Brother Shane, the riverside is so dangerous. You could have asked the firefighters for help with the kitten rescue. You getting injured pains me," Eleanor¡¯s worried voice quivered slightly, directly softening Shane¡¯s heart.

    Mrs. Yi, after mourning the ordeal in the morning, returned to the hotel to rest, leaving Eleanor and Shane alone, while Cari sensibly stood guard at the door.

    "Eleanor, it¡¯s alright. It¡¯s I who caused you to lose the opportunity," Shane spoke indistinctly; listening closely, one could barely grasp the gist.

    Eleanor gently held the bandage resembling a hand, with tears perched on her longshes. She shook her head, saying, "It¡¯s not Brother Shane¡¯s fault; Eleanor is just worried for Brother Shane right now."

    Eleanor continued, "Brother Shane, I¡¯m not upset. Joy hasn¡¯t been affected at all; I can¡¯t be petty. I¡¯ve heard the new female lead for South Wind Song is Miss Elliana Lyle, apparently Joy¡¯s cousin."

    Seemingly mentioned in passing, Eleanor already had ns to take advantage of this chance to remove Joy Lyle from Rnd.

    Among Rnd Company¡¯s female artists, Joy Lyle outranked her in fan base andpany favoritism.

    "Joy Lyle?" At this, Shane felt something was amiss, immediately retorting furiously, "Ungrateful swine."

    "Huh? Brother Shane, what did you say?"

    "Nothing... Eleanor, you go back first. I¡¯ll keep youpany once I¡¯m better." Shane spoke with difficulty, but his face showed signs of improvement, at least revealing his original features.

    "Alright, then Eleanor is heading back. The assistant arranged a variety show appearance; I should prepare for that." With these words, Eleanor left a gentle kiss on Shane¡¯s forehead, then left with flushed cheeks.

    Cari didn¡¯t overhear anything, but Eleanor surely had more motives than merely checking on Shane.

    "Vice President, would you like some water?" Cari noticed Shane slightly raised his hand, and quickly inquired.

    "Come over here."

    Cari obediently walked to the bedside.

    "Terminate Joy Lyle¡¯s contract for me!"

    "What? Vice President, that¡¯s not possible." Cari knew Eleanor¡¯s visit spelled trouble.

    She advised, "Vice President, even though Joy Lyle¡¯s recent online reputation isn¡¯t great, she still has a substantial fan base. Perhaps let her take a break for a while?"

 Chapter 28 - 27: Tasting Oneâ€™s Own Bitter Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 28: Chapter 27: Tasting One¡¯s Own Bitter Fruit</h4>

    A bright moon rose in the night sky, a gentle breeze caressing the clothes, bringing with it a refreshing coolness.

    Joy stood alone by the balcony, her hands on the railing, gazing into the distance.

    She had returned to South City, staying at Elliana Lyle¡¯s house. Although she could no longer perform in South Wind Song, Joy¡¯s mood was not affected in the slightest.

    In fact, it was because of this that she had the time toe back.

    Now, without the busyness, it seemed like everything had calmed down.

    Knock, knock, knock.

    "Joy, are you asleep?"

    The voice of Be Hue, Joy¡¯s aunt, came from outside the bedroom door. Joy hurriedly went inside from the balcony to open the door.

    "Auntie." Joy said with a warm smile, seeing her aunt holding a doll about the same size as her.

    "Joy, I remember you were scared of sleeping alone when you were a child. Since Elliana is not home, I brought you one of her dolls." Aunt Hue said with a gentle smile, cing the doll on the bed after walking into the room.

    It was arge pink bear, and Joy remembered that it was a gift Elliana received for her 17th birthday.

    Back when she was 18, Elliana was just 17. After embarking on her acting career, she was not well-received by her family, but Joy¡¯s uncle and aunt¡¯s family treated her extremely well and even let her stay with Elliana for a year.

    It was from that time that the rtionship between Joy and Elliana started to be close.

    "Auntie, you¡¯ve really gone to great trouble." The smile on Joy¡¯s face deepened as she epted the doll without refusal.

    Being afraid to sleep alone was something from her childhood, but her aunt still remembered it fondly.

    "Joy, go to sleep early. I don¡¯t have much to do tomorrow either, so we can go out and shop."

    "Alright, goodnight Auntie."

    After escorting Aunt Hue out, as soon as Joy closed the door, her phone buzzed with a message notification.

    It was from Elliana.

    Elliana: "Sis, I just got back from the set. Are you at home yet? How¡¯s Mom¡¯s foot?"

    Even though Elliana had already asked Aunt Hue herself, she still felt a little uneasy.

    She always felt a bit indebted to Joy, but thankfully, Joy didn¡¯t stop liking her as a sister because of it.

    This morning, Joyforted her instead, telling her not to worry, as it¡¯s allpany matters and has nothing to do with them.

    Seeing Elliana¡¯s message, Joy smiled softly. Every time she nned to visit her uncle¡¯s house, Elliana would always ask "Sis, when are you getting home?"

    This time was no different as she asked if Joy had arrived, words that always warmed her heart.

    Joy replied: "I¡¯m home, getting ready to sleep. Auntie seems well and invited me to go shopping with her tomorrow."

    Elliana: "Then you should hurry and sleep because when Mom goes shopping, she can be pretty terrifying."

    ¨D¨D¨DIn North City, at Vicars Hotel.

    Elliana was curled up on the sofa, sending Joy a goodnight message on her phone.

    "Miss Lyle, have some warm milk." Lana ced the warm milk in front of her.

    She met many people on the set today, and Director Li said shooting would officially start in three days, giving her time to get familiar with the script.

    Norman Bet hadn¡¯t returned yet, sending a message saying he was busy and woulde backte.

    After drinking the milk, she settled into afortable position and started browsing Weibo on her phone.

    Seeing it scared her!

    She was trending on the headlines!

    Yet, surprisingly, the second trending topic was... Shane Southwell?

    "Shane Southwell rescued a kitten? That¡¯s not like him at all." Ellianamented as she read, her words slightly sarcastic.

    Lanaughed, saying, "This morning, it wasn¡¯t this; it was about Mr. Southwell getting involved in a scuffle with a caf¨¦ staff member."

    "What? There¡¯s that too?" With aplete ¡¯gawker¡¯ mentality, Elliana thoroughly looked through Weibo to understand the whole story.

    Whether Shane really saved the kitten was uncertain, but hitting someone was true because that caf¨¦ was the ce Shane had mentioned for their meeting.

    After getting the full scoop, Elliana began to focus on her own matters.

    The news wasn¡¯t good, and she was hesitant about dealing with it!

    South Wind Song urgently recing the female lead, shockingly with the originator of all gossip, Elliana Lyle!

    ...

    Alright, there¡¯s no need to look, it was obviously not good news.

    Then she opened her homepage. She¡¯d been verified as an actress suddenly, with her followers skyrocketing by more than three million. She suddenly realized it was probably Manager Wang¡¯s doing.

    Apart from that, Manager Wang also sent her a still and script notes...

    There were already numerousments, curiosity forcing her to open them.

    The most likedment, however, wasn¡¯t criticizing her.

    Heart of Snow: "Wow, I used to be a Snow fan, but Elliana looks so stunning, I¡¯m a fan of her looks now."

    Below were a few people quarreling.

    Bunny Radish: "Your morals follow your aesthetics? Elliana chasing Shane Southwell back then was disgusting, shameless. Our Shane brother never liked her."

    Second Camp¡¯s Italian Cannon @Bunny Radish: "What¡¯s wrong with her morals? Isn¡¯t she a good youngdy? Chasing love isn¡¯t unprincipled."

    Bunny Radish @Second Camp¡¯s Italian Cannon: "Wasn¡¯t it because of Shane brother¡¯s money that she was a gold digger?"

    Heart of Snow @Bunny Radish: "Please, stop being sour. Check out Elliana¡¯s family background, richer than Shane¡¯s family."

    ...

    Elliana felt speechless, wanting to find a crack in the ground to hide in. Please stop talking about Shane Southwell!

    Bzzz~

    Luna Detective: "Alright, see you tomorrow at Vito Steakhouse."

    ...

    When was this message sent? Responding only now.

    Kitten: "Alright."

    "Young Master, you¡¯re back."

    Lana¡¯s voice startled Elliana, who quickly sat up. She saw Norman Bet handing his coat to Lana before walking towards her.

    The scent of alcohol mixed with lotus fragrance wafted into her nose, prompting her to ask, "Norman, have you been drinking?"

    "Mm, social event."

    Norman sat beside her, loosening his tie with his long fingers. Lana had already gone to the bathroom to fill the tub with hot water.

    "Hold me." Elliana instinctively snuggled into the man¡¯s embrace. Even after drinking, Norman¡¯s face remained cold and aloof.

    Pressing her small face against his chest, she looked up and said, "Norman, the shooting officially begins in three days."

    "Mm."

    Norman held onto his little girl while pinching his brow, looking somewhat tired.

    Seeing this, Elliana got up from his embrace and obediently said, "I¡¯ll give you a shoulder massage."

    "Alright."

    While massaging his shoulders, Elliana slowly said, "Norman, I want to go out on my own tomorrow, can I?"

    "Mm, juste back early."

    By this time, Lana had already prepared the hot water. While Norman went to bathe, Elliana felt a bit sleepy but still wanted to wait for him.

    About half an hourter, Elliana had already fallen asleep on the sofa. Lana initially wanted to carry Elliana to her room but felt this was something she shouldn¡¯t do.

    "Little girl?" Freshly bathed Norman still had a lingering fragrance.

    He called once, but the little girl had no reaction, indicating she was truly asleep.

    He carefully picked her up and carried her to the main bedroom.

    Despite being as gentle as possible, cing her on the bed woke Elliana. Dazed, she looked at Norman and quickly rubbed her eyes.

    "Norman, you¡¯re done bathing?" Elliana¡¯s voice was hoarse yet soft.

    "Mm, sleep now."

    "Will you sleep with me? Please?" Not knowing where her courage came from, Elliana asked, desiring Norman¡¯s embrace as she fell asleep.

    Because it made her feel at ease.

    "No." Norman firmly refused her request.

    Not that he didn¡¯t want to, but he wanted it too much.

 Chapter 29 - 28: Superficial Brotherhood

    <h4>Chapter 29: Chapter 28: Superficial Brotherhood</h4>

    "Good girl, sleep, be good." The man patiently patted her back, along with his lulling tone...

    She tried hard to open her eyes, but she was really too sleepy...

    The next day.

    Vito Steakhouse.

    Elliana Lyle had already eaten two servings of pudding at table G, yet Luna was nowhere to be seen.

    They agreed to meet at 9, but now it¡¯s 11. She wasn¡¯t answering her phone, nor replying to messages. Elliana felt she had been stood up.

    Just as she was feeling frustrated, a little girl in Lolita walked by. She was short, cute, with pigtails.

    However, this little girl sat directly across from her, sucking on a lollipop.

    "Little girl, sorry, someone¡¯s sitting here. I¡¯m waiting for my friend," Elliana quickly said, not because she was stingy, but because there were still empty tables at the restaurant.

    The little girl frowned slightly, stared at her strangely, and finally said, "What? You have ns with someone else?"

    This voice had a certain pressure, who could have thought that a little girl would have the voice of a queen?

    Wait!

    This voice!

    Why does it sound so familiar to Elliana?

    She tentatively asked, "Are you... Luna?"

    "It¡¯s me. You seem very surprised to see me?" Luna said and waved the waiter over.

    Elliana was momentarily at a loss for words. She couldn¡¯t have imagined this little girl, looking not yet an adult, was a detective?

    "Big brother~ bring two servings of sirloin for me and my sister, I want mine with ck pepper, fully cooked, or I¡¯ll get a tummy ache."

    When Elliana heard Luna¡¯s cute yet unpretentious childlike tone, she was stunned. Was this a voice actress?

    Then Luna looked at Elliana and asked, "Sister~ what vor do you want?"

    "Uh... the same as yours."

    After the waiter left, Elliana still picked up her phone and sent a WeChat message to Luna, and the little girl¡¯s phone rang.

    Alright, ept the reality.

    Elliana truly didn¡¯t expect that Luna would be such a little child. Are kids this amazing nowadays?

    "Don¡¯t look at me with such odd eyes, I¡¯m twenty-eight." Luna said.

    "You maintain yourself very well, very well!" Elliana, having her thoughts seen through, awkwardlyughed.

    After finishing the steak, Elliana paid and followed Luna out of the restaurant.

    Luna said, "I have important matters today, you should head back first."

    "What¡¯s so important?"

    ...

    ¡ª South City, Rnd Brokerage Company.

    CEO¡¯s office.

    Knock, knock knock.

    "CEO, Mr. Lee has arrived," the assistant said from outside the door.

    "Pleasee in." Cameron Southwell took off his sses he had put down, sitting and waiting for the guest to enter.

    The assistant opened the door respectfully and bowed his head to let Matthew Lee in first.

    "Old Lee, have a seat." Cameron Southwell smiled affably, nothing like the gloomy demeanor of yesterday.

    Then he added, "Little Ye, serve some tea for Mr. Lee."

    "Oh, Cameron my old friend, you¡¯re being too polite." Matthew Lee sat across from Cameron Southwell, the two seemed like old brothers who haven¡¯t seen each other for years.

    Even their greetings were very friendly.

    In reality, many years ago, they were indeed good brothers, starting a business together, but as time passed, both valued personal interests over brotherly ties.

    "Mr. Lee, please enjoy the tea." The assistant, having received a signal from Cameron Southwell, put down the teacup and left the office.

    Matthew Lee picked up the teacup, taking a small sip and couldn¡¯t help but marvel, "Good tea, Cameron my old friend, is this from the old well of Lion Peak? Indeed, it¡¯s delicate yet far-reaching, fragrant and clear."

    "All bought by my son. Old Lee, if you like it, take some home with you. Shane is also someone you¡¯ve watched growing up." Cameron Southwell chuckled happily.

    "Sigh, Cameron my old friend, I¡¯m afraid you didn¡¯t invite me here today just to drink tea, did you?"

    Matthew Lee got straight to the point, knowing that Cameron Southwell must seek something from him today. Both were waiting for the other to state their terms.

    Seeing Matthew Lee being so direct, Cameron Southwell didn¡¯t beat around the bush, sighed and asked, "Ah, it¡¯s my failure in educating my son, Old Lee, name your conditions."

    Hearing Cameron Southwell say this, Matthew Lee appeared warm and pleasant, hurriedly saying, "Oh, Cameron my old friend, what are you talking about? Shane, that child, is someone I¡¯ve watched from a young age, and I saw potential in him back then."

    "As an uncle, naturally I don¡¯t hold grudges. Young people, who doesn¡¯t make mistakes?"

    With a shift in tone, Matthew Lee shook his head helplessly, "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t forgive him, it¡¯s that the other shareholders want to pursue the matter to the end. As leaders, you and I must provide an exnation to the others."

    "Ai, my son is still young, Old Lee, how about this: I¡¯ll give up ten percent of my shares to divide among our brothers, and let¡¯s settle this matter at that." Cameron Southwell reached out and patted Matthew Lee¡¯s hand.

    This ten percent share was a significant giveaway, considering Cameron Southwell owned fifty-five percent of thepany shares. Giving away ten percent left him with only forty-five percent.

    Matthew Lee showed a troubled expression, pondering for a long time before saying, "Alright, I¡¯ll talk to them about it."

    Hearing this, Cameron Southwell breathed a sigh of relief, but he wasn¡¯t a fool, knowing that the number of shares represented his influence.

    Seeing Matthew Lee agree, he added, "Old Lee, the shares being distributed should not be transferred further."

    Hearing this, Matthew Lee was visibly stunned. The ability to transfer or not was a world of difference.

    However, getting ten percent out of Cameron Southwell was good enough, and as they were all ostensibly brothers, they couldn¡¯t tear into each other.

    "Alright then, Cameron my old friend, I¡¯ll go tell them now. Whether it works out depends on everyone." Matthew Lee couldn¡¯t provide a firm reassurance to Cameron Southwell.

    Cameron Southwell remained unbothered, happily saying, "Alright, thank you for the trouble."

    Assistant Little Ye saw Matthew Lee off and returned to find Cameron Southwell looking serious and silent.

    "CEO, what do you think Mr. Lee means?" Little Ye couldn¡¯t help but worry.

    "Little Ye, I¡¯m tired. Arrange for the shareholder meeting the day after tomorrow, I need a break." Cameron Southwell spoke in a feeble tone, having paid a great price for his troublesome son.

    Giving away ten percent,bined with his son¡¯s five percent, left just fifty percent altogether.

    If those shareholders united, they would indeed be able to oppose him.

    What was temporarily advantageous was that one small shareholder with three percent was his wife¡¯s brother.

    But it was still early, and whether Matthew Lee would seed was unknown. If not, he would have to send Shane abroad to hide.

    ¡ª North City, 2 p.m.

    Elliana had already returned to the hotel, seated before herputer, contacting the victimized girls one by one.

    However, whenever she mentioned what Jianfeng and Adrian had done to them, Elliana was directly blocked by the girls.

    She needed to find a way to get these girls to sue Jianfeng and Adrian, not just for her own revenge, but also to reduce further victims.

    Initially, she didn¡¯t want to directly criminalize Jianfeng and Adrian. She wanted to uncover more.

    However, Jianfeng and Adrian were being instructed by George Lyle and could not reach Shane Southwell.

    George Lyle thus became the key, but nothing could be found about George Lyle.

    The man was inexplicably clean; ording to Luna, he was even a phnthropist who donated to an elementary school.

    Inability to uncover George Lyle¡¯s oddity meant there was no way to settle Shane Southwell¡¯s crimes either.

    Currently, Rnd¡¯s breach of contract issue didn¡¯t cause a shareholder uproar, indicating that Cameron Southwell already protected Shane Southwell.

    The only means to calm shareholder anger would likely be shares. She did not know how much Cameron Southwell offered, but she regretted not seeing Shane go to jail.

 Chapter 30 - 29: Save Me

    <h4>Chapter 30: Chapter 29: Save Me</h4>

    Fleeting seconds ticking by.

    Elliana Lyle rests her left hand on her cheek, while her right index finger taps rhythmically on the table.

    The youngest victim is only 12 years old, and the oldest is just 18.

    They are terrified of people finding out that they were forcibly vited.

    If anyone discovered, they would not only struggle to face their parents, but would also be ostracized by those around them.

    Elliana Lyle cannot preserve these girls¡¯ reputations, but she can help them getwyers and punish the culprits.

    After much contemtion, Elliana decided on a n of action: anyone willing to sue Adrian Young and Raymond Wood would receive a sum of money aspensation.

    It¡¯s entirely voluntary, and she¡¯s not going to force anyone who isn¡¯t willing.

    She had a n, but where would the moneye from? Though her family is wealthy, she didn¡¯t know what reason she could use for asking.

    Indeed, it¡¯s better to earn money on her own.

    But... she still had the card given by Norman Bet in her possession; borrowing it might be...

    Suddenly, a WeChat message notification sounded ¡ª it was from a newly added victim.

    I Saw the Light: "Who are you people exactly? I told you this morning, I¡¯m not willing, if you want to sue, do it yourself, don¡¯t drag me into it."

    What did this mean? This morning?

    The information in this message was quite revealing. Is someone else doing this?

    Knock, knock.

    As she pondered, the door to the study was knocked upon. Elliana quickly exited the WeChat page and said towards the door, "Come in."

    Norman Bet approached her, his cold demeanor carrying a touch of seriousness.

    Elliana smiled, "Norman, you¡¯re back."

    "Mm."

    Norman sat beside her, pulling her into his embrace, "There¡¯s been progress with Adrian Young and Raymond Wood¡¯s case; Raymond Wood has found quite a few victims, and they¡¯re nning to sue."

    He didn¡¯t tell Elliana what he had uncovered; such disgraceful matters were not something he wanted her to know.

    So it was Norman Bet! Elliana only then realized.

    She had only nced at the list Luna sent using herptop, and then deleted the cache.

    This meant that all of this was discovered by Norman himself.

    Elliana felt somewhat moved; Norman really cared about her.

    "Norman." Elliana suddenly broke down, her eyes inexplicably stinging and misting over, "Thank you."

    "No crying," he said somewhat dominantly, though his hands tenderly wiped the tears from her eyes.

    Elliana seemed to recall something, quickly speaking, "Norman, don¡¯t force them to sue, these are all wounded girls, and the reason they endure without speaking is mostly for reputation, for girls...."

    "You knew?"

    "Huh?" Elliana was momentarily confused by Norman¡¯s words.

    "Twenty thousand, with no media exposure, won¡¯t have too much impact on their lives."

    Normanforted her; he didn¡¯t want his little girl to think too much.

    "Mm." Elliana then felt relieved, thinking, indeed, how could Norman not have considered the issues she could think of?

    Now, it seems the only thing left is to quietly await the oue; Adrian Young and Raymond Wood will undoubtedly face justice.

    Yet, up till now, Elliana still couldn¡¯t understand why Shane Southwell insisted on directing George Lyle to kill her parents. Before she was reborn, she was clearly always getting money for Shane Southwell.

    Could it truly be just for more money?

    She had been married to Shane Southwell for three years, and her understanding of him boiled down to: aloof, a preference for tall beauties, and a violent temperament ¡ª these three.

    She felt like she never truly loved Shane Southwell; it was merely a fondness at the start, like... a little girl admiring a celebrity.

    After getting married, she had to try to love Shane Southwell and adapt to his family.

    These were tragedies she couldn¡¯t change in her past life; everything was her own fault.

    She really hated Shane Southwell for all the harm he¡¯d done to her.

    "Norman~." At this moment, Elliana felt like a deted balloon, only wanting to quietly nestle in Norman¡¯s arms, devoid of any desire to act.

    Having passed the first hurdle, what follows is even tougher.

    "Tired?" Norman lifted her out of the study.

    ¨D¨D¨D¨D Nightfall.

    Elliana hadn¡¯t yet slept, lying half reclined in bed, chatting with Luna.

    Luna Detective: "George Lyle was originally just an ordinary college student. After his parents¡¯ tragic passing, he went abroad, then returned and joined Rnd. He climbed up from a low-level employee, showing no obvious issues."

    Luna Detective: "For now, this is all that can be found; keep waiting for more news."

    Kitty: "Okay."

    These things were simr to what Norman Bet had told her. Luna couldn¡¯t find any criminal records for George Lyle, and neither could Norman, nor could the police.

    What exactly is George Lyle¡¯s true identity? Is he really innocent?

    Ding~

    QQ message notification; it¡¯s one of the victim girls, the sole one without WeChat contact.

    She¡¯ve been added without needing verification, yet there¡¯s been no response until now.

    Ding-dong Cat: "Help me, I¡¯m being"

    Upon seeing this message, Elliana immediately sat upright from her half-reclined position ¡ª what is happening!

    She quickly sent a message inquiring, yet the QQ was offline.

    Helplessly, she turned to Dingdong Cat¡¯s QQ space, where there was a selfie of a little girl, very young, beautiful as a porcin doll, looking happy, but it was posted several months ago.

    Cross-referencing the list, the girl¡¯s name is Rupert Zeller, 12 years old, residing in North City, Daan District, Whitesun Town, New Street 29.

    She briefly considered calling the police for the girl when the girl came online again.

    Ding-dong Cat: "Leave me alone, just get lost, there¡¯s no such thing."

    How peculiar, these words don¡¯t resemble those a 12-year-old would say. Her intuition tells her there¡¯s definitely something wrong.

    But Ding-dong Cat went offline again after speaking, leaving her unable to follow up.

    Thus she screenshot the message and sent it to Luna.

    Soon, Luna replied to her.

    Luna Detective: "You want me to investigate her?"

    Kitty: "Yes."

    Luna Detective: "2,000, I¡¯ll get back to you tomorrow."

    ...

    Elliana was running out of money. She had a total of 200,000 in savings, now there¡¯s only about 100,000 left, and given Luna¡¯s spending habits, it likely won¡¯tst long.

    Thinking of this, she turned to her scripts; earning money quickly was necessary.

    ¨D¨D¨D¨D The next day.

    North City Central Hospital.

    "Cough, cough!" Ellianay in the hospital ward, and Lana fed her porridge. She was unfortunately suffering from a cold.

    Due tost night¡¯s rain and temperature drop, along with the AC set too low in the bedroom, she developed a high fever by midnight.

    When Lana woke up to turn off the AC, she heard her coughing.

    She remembered Norman Bet was really panicked at the time, carrying her out of the hotel, then sending her to the hospital.

    Norman stayed by her side throughout the night and left the hospital at 7 AM, probably due to other engagements.

    "Lana, can I be discharged now?" Elliana asked.

    "Yes, Dr. White said you could; I¡¯ll take Ms. Lyle back to the hotel soon."

    Half an hourter.

    Elliana walked out of the hospital ward, feeling somewhat surprised upon entering the elevator.

    Inside the elevator stood a tall woman, someone she knew.

    Cari from Shane Southwell¡¯s circle.

    Elliana had a rather favorable impression of Cari in her past life. On one asion, when Shane Southwell kicked her out, Cari took her to her own home.

    "Ms. Lyle, what a coincidence, you¡¯re ill?" Cari greeted her first.

    Elliana responded, "Mm, just a minor cold, nothing serious."

    "Our Vice President is on the sixth floor." Cari intentionally gave a reminder; sometimes, she truly pitied this girl for her foolishness.

    Lana looked at Elliana, fearing that she might head to the sixth floor.

    "Really? Has he started interning at the hospital?"

    Elliana casually mocked and showed no intention of going up; when the elevator reached the ground floor, she directly exited, leaving Cari behind.

    It seems that Ms. Lyle doesn¡¯t care much for the Vice President.

    At least notpletely foolish.

 Chapter 31 - 30: Whitesun Town

    <h4>Chapter 31: Chapter 30: Whitesun Town</h4>

    Back at the hotel, Elliana rushed back to the master bedroom impatiently. Her phone was still charging at the bedside.

    As expected, Luna had already sent her a message.

    Luna Detective: "It¡¯s too remote, I didn¡¯t find much. I¡¯m nning to go to Whitesun Town. If you care, I can take you with me to check it out."

    Going in person?

    Elliana hadn¡¯t considered it, but she really wanted to know how Rupert was doing. The cry for help indicated that she was being mistreated.

    Cat: "Okay."

    She was someone who acted as soon as she decided to do something. No matter what, once she made up her mind, she would go through with it.

    However, the hurdle of Norman Bet was a bit difficult.

    "Lana, I¡¯m going to stay at my sister Phoebe Lyle¡¯s house for two days. Her cat had kittens, and I want to go see."

    She told Lana, knowing that Phoebe had rented an apartment in North City, supposedly to write in peace and moved out of the old Lyle family house.

    "Huh? Miss Lyle, don¡¯t you want to tell the young master?" Lana couldn¡¯t make the decision and couldn¡¯t stop Elliana from seeing her own family, so she had to ask.

    She smirked: "You tell him, I¡¯m off now."

    Quickly slipping away! Elliana, as if her feet were greased, headed straight for the door.

    "Hey! Miss Lyle! Take your medicine with you!"

    "Oh, right." Elliana picked up the medicine on the table and left hurriedly.

    Watching the already closed door, Lana didn¡¯t know what to do for a moment and could only quickly call Raymond Wood.

    "Hello, is this Assistant Wu..."

    ...

    North City, Melody Harmony¡¯s branch office.

    Norman Bet was in a meeting when Raymond received Lana¡¯s call and couldn¡¯t ignore it.

    He could only go and knock on the conference room door.

    "Come in."

    The people in the meeting watched as Raymond entered, and no one said a word.

    Raymond walked to Norman Bet¡¯s side and whispered in his ear.

    One could see Norman Bet¡¯s brows furrowing, "Verify it."

    He wouldn¡¯t stop Elliana from doing what she enjoyed, but he was afraid of being tricked by this little con artist again.

    "Yes." Raymond left the conference room and quickly went to find Phoebe Lyle¡¯s phone number.

    ...

    Meanwhile, Phoebe Lyle, who was typing on herputer, received an unfamiliar phone call.

    She didn¡¯t hesitate and picked up the phone directly.

    "Hello."

    The voice of a man came from the other end, and Phoebe was obviously skeptical upon knowing who it was.

    But what the other party said made her more and more confused.

    Her cat indeed had a few kittensst month, but she hadn¡¯t told Elliana, nor did Elliana mention wanting to see the cat.

    After thinking for a bit, she still said, "Yes, Elliana did say she wasing."

    After hanging up, Phoebe quickly called Elliana, and it connected promptly.

    Before the person on the other end could speak, Phoebe impatiently said, "Elliana, I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re doing. Assistant Wu just asked me, and I covered for you. I hope you¡¯re not going to see Shane Southwell. You and Norman Bet are engaged; I hope you show some respect."

    Elliana: "..."

    She was just about to call Phoebe to talk about it... Unexpectedly, Norman acted so fast! Luckily, Phoebe helped her out.

    "No, Sister Phoebe, I¡¯m not going to see Shane." Elliana quickly exined.

    Hearing Elliana say that, Phoebe¡¯s tone softened a lot, and she said, "Good, if not. After you¡¯re done,e by and visit. My address is in North City Peacheast New District, Star River Court. Call me when you¡¯reing, and I¡¯ll pick you up."

    "Okay, thank you, Sister Phoebe~" After saying that, she heard a beep, and the call ended.

    "Are you ready? Get in the car." Sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, Luna was apparently running out of patience.

    This car was rented by Luna, and after thinking it over for a bit, Elliana got in.

    The car started, and Luna suddenly spoke: "Rupert is a first-year student who was lured to Adrian Young and Raymond Wood in February this year, and then she dropped out in April."

    Elliana thought for a moment and asked, "Do we know why she stopped attending school?"

    "Hard to say. In this small ce, many things are hard to find out. We¡¯ll know once we get there," Luna said.

    ¨D¨D¨D Daan District, Whitesun Town, New Street.

    The two of them parked at the corner of the intersection in this remote town. The streets were fairly clean, but with few people around, it seemed a bit deste.

    From there, they could see shop number 29, a liquor store called Phoenix Prosperity, with a group of people sitting at the entrance, both old and young, watching a few people ying poker.

    This must be the liveliest spot on the street.

    Luna first used binocrs to observe from the car.

    "Do you see them? The one in yellow, and the one in a ck-trimmed short sleeve, those are Rupert¡¯s parents."

    Following Luna¡¯s direction, Elliana saw the smiling middle-aged couple, the husband ying cards while the wife watched.

    She was a bit puzzled: "They don¡¯t look the part; if their daughter was being mistreated, how could they be so happy?"

    Luna didn¡¯t answer her but continued, "See the little chubby kid ying with a phone inside the store? That¡¯s their younger son, just started middle ss in kindergarten."

    "Also, Rupert¡¯s QQ was logged in here, using a Xiaomi MIX2S, so technically, Rupert should be here."

    Elliana nodded and suggested, "Shall we go down and ask?"

    "We shouldn¡¯t ask her parents. Based on the chat logs,ter messages are likely sent by her parents," Luna said, pointing to an elderly man smoking alone on another street.

    Elliana immediately understood Luna¡¯s intent, and the two of them got out of the car.

    The smoking old man was a bit far away, and by the time they walked over, he had already smoked one and was rolling another.

    "Grandpa, do you know Rupert?" Elliana slightly bent down, addressing the shabby-looking old man.

    "Rupert?" The old man first nced at Elliana, frowned his bushy white eyebrows, and said, "Yes, what do you want with her?"

    The old man spoke with a frown, his cloudy eyes full of wariness.

    "It¡¯s like this." Elliana tugged at Luna and said with a smile, "Grandpa, my sister is Rupert¡¯s ssmate, here to visit her."

    "Oh~" The old man nodded in understanding, lowered his head to continue rolling his cigarette, and regretfully said, "You can¡¯t y with her; that girl went crazy. Her mom and dad say she got a mental illness."

    The old man pointed behind them, "It¡¯s the shop at the corner."

    Mental illness?

    Elliana instinctively turned to look at Luna.

    The old man continued, "I heard she went crazy after the Tomb-Sweeping Day. Probably saw something unclean and got entangled." He clicked his tongue twice in pity after speaking.

    Half an hourter.

    The two had asked quite a few people in the vicinity, and everyone said much the same¡ªthe unanimous conclusion was that Rupert had developed a mental illness.

    At this moment, Elliana was heading towards Rupert¡¯s house, feeling a bit nervous, asionally ncing back at Luna in the car.

    She saw Luna give her an okay gesture.

    Elliana gathered herself for a moment and started walking towards the group of people, nning to pretend to pass by the shop.

    As she was dressed in a silk white dress and her appearance stood out in this small town, the card yers naturally noticed her.

    A middle-aged man whispered, "This city girl is indeed pretty, dressed so fashionably."

    "Quiet down, don¡¯t let her hear."

    Just then, as Elliana passed the shop, she suddenly turned around and walked back. The group ying cards thought she had heard them and wasing to confront them.

    Seeing Elliana getting closer, not only was she nervous, but the middle-aged man who just spoke was also nervous.

    When Elliana reached the shop, she instead approached the chubby kid sitting at the door.

    Upon seeing this, the Rupert couple immediately stood up from their small stools.

    "Oh, Jiacheng, it¡¯s really you. Teacher almost thought she was seeing things." Elliana squatted in front of the chubby kid, her voice gentle, her smile warm, like a spring breeze.

    Hearing this, the little boy¡¯s mom rxed; so, this person was a kindergarten teacher.

    They had sent their son to a city kindergarten, and this self-proimed teacher must be from there.

    Their son seemed to have no memory of such a good-looking teacher in the kindergarten.

    Seeing the little boy¡¯s confused expression, Elliana felt both awkward and nervous, quickly adding, "What? Little Jiacheng doesn¡¯t remember Teacher Lyle?"

    After a while, the little boy still didn¡¯t respond. He simply couldn¡¯t recall any Teacher Lyle, bing even more confused.

    """

 Chapter 32 - 31: Little One

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter 31: Little One</h4>

    Seeing the child¡¯s confusion growing, Elliana Lyle¡¯s face almost froze with a smile. This month, what kind of lousy idea was this!

    She noticed that the phone in the child¡¯s hand was a Xiaomi MIX2S, probably belonging to his parents.

    However, Luna had sent her to inquire and investigate Rupert Zeller, and to observe the situation of this couple.

    At this moment, Johnny Zeller¡¯s mother walked over and couldn¡¯t help but scold her son, "Johnny, why didn¡¯t you greet the teacher? So rude!"

    "Hello, Teacher Lyle." The chubby little boy quickly called out, but his small eyes were still filled with big doubts.

    But seeing this gentle smile from Teacher Lyle, the chubby little boy also smiled back at her.

    "Oh dear, Teacher Lyle, my son is just a bit of a blockhead. He¡¯s never liked to greet people since he was little," Johnny¡¯s mother said with a smile, very politely.

    Seeing nothing amiss, the others continued their card game.

    Johnny¡¯s mother was a gentle-looking woman, wearing simple silver jewelry, her face without any makeup, and her honest smile appeared quite amiable.

    "Not at all, Johnny behaves very well in kindergarten." Elliana Lyle said with a smile, looking at the chubby little boy, and asked with a smile: "Johnny, didn¡¯t you tell the teacher you have a sister? Why don¡¯t you y with her?"

    As soon as she said this, Johnny¡¯s mother¡¯s face stiffened, even his father stopped his actions and nced over from the corner of his eye.

    The chubby little boy replied without thinking, "Teacher Lyle, my sister was..."

    Before he could finish, Johnny¡¯s mother interrupted him,ughingly saying to Elliana Lyle, "His sister is sick, she¡¯s resting upstairs now."

    Johnny¡¯s mother said this while pulling Johnny up, snatching the phone from his hand, and scolded, "All you know is ying with your phone, get in there and do your homework!"

    "Oh~" The little boy reluctantly went into the shop.

    After the chubby little boy left, Elliana Lyle also stood up, still wearing a gentle smile as she watched him go inside, seemingly trying to see through the building.

    She then withdrew her gaze, looked at Johnny¡¯s mother, and softly said, "Johnny¡¯s mom, don¡¯t be too hard on the child. I assigned some parent-child interactive homework¡ªto help mom wash her feet. Did Johnny do it?"

    Such a homework assignment, teachers across the country would surely assign.

    "He did, he even washed his dad¡¯s feet once," Johnny¡¯s mother replied cheerfully, but there was still a hint of wariness in her eyes.

    Elliana Lyle could naturally sense this, knowing that a kindergarten teacher from the city wouldn¡¯te here for no reason.

    So she quickly thought up a line to ease Johnny¡¯s mother¡¯s suspicion.

    "Johnny¡¯s mom, can I ask you something, is there any affordable house for rent nearby?" Elliana Lyle asked.

    "Affordable housing?" The sudden question left Johnny¡¯s mother momentarily stunned.

    Elliana Lyle tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, somewhat embarrassed, and said, "It¡¯s like this, my sister just got a heart transnt and she¡¯s most afraid of disturbances. The city is so noisy, and suburban rents are expensive. I spent a lot of money for my sister, and recently I¡¯m a bit short on money. I heard it¡¯s cheap and quiet here, so I came to find a ce."

    This exnation didn¡¯t offer much credibility, but Elliana¡¯s hint of distress, embarrassment, and even intentionally lowered voice led Johnny¡¯s mother to believe she was genuinely looking for a ce, feeling a bit embarrassed because she didn¡¯t have much money.

    This Teacher Lyle wasn¡¯t as morous as her appearance suggested.

    Otherwise, why would shee all this way to find a ce?

    Johnny¡¯s mother immediately said, "You want cheap? Here we have ces that range from 600 down to 200 a month."

    "Then the best would be the 200 one." Elliana appeared a bit anxious, then smiled with some embarrassment, her ears turning slightly red.

    However, this behavior, in Johnny¡¯s mother¡¯s eyes, was a sign of a city person down on their luck.

    Elliana hadn¡¯t expected Johnny¡¯s mother to think this way; she was merely covering up her lie.

    "There is one, just ahead, turn right, there¡¯s an olddy who runs a wonton shop. She lives alone and wants to rent out the second floor," Johnny¡¯s mother warmly directed Elliana and even took her to the corner.

    Johnny¡¯s mother pointed ahead, "It¡¯s over there, Teacher Lyle, you can go and ask."

    "Okay, thank you, Johnny¡¯s mom." After bidding farewell to Johnny¡¯s mother, Elliana truly went to the wonton shop.

    A few minutester, she called Luna and said, "Hey, Luna,e around this way. Come have some wontons. I¡¯ve sent you the location."

    "Alright, wait for me."

    Before long, Luna parked her car at the wonton shop¡¯s entrance and walked in.

    The olddy brought over Luna¡¯s wontons, smiling without saying anything.

    "So, did you notice anything?" Luna asked, drinking the wonton soup, waiting for Elliana to recount.

    Once the olddy was far enough away, Elliana said, "The phone model is correct, and Johnny Zeller¡¯s mom seems very sensitive about mentioning Rupert Zeller, as does his dad."

    "Hmm." Luna responded lightly.

    Elliana continued in a low voice, "Little Johnny was originally attending Whitesun Town Kindergarten. After Rupert Zeller¡¯s incident this year, they sent their son to the city. I noticed his mom¡¯s jewelry looks very new, as if it was recently purchased, and even the air conditioning unit in their house is new. So, they definitely know something happened to Rupert Zeller."

    "Hmm." Luna responded softly again.

    Adrian Young gives each victim between thirty to eighty thousand hush money, enough to buy these things.

    Half an hourter.

    Elliana Lyle rented the second floor from the olddy for 600, renting it for a quarter.

    All this Luna watched, allowing herself a rare smile to Elliana, "You didn¡¯t have to."

    "Put on a full act." Saying this, Elliana suddenly furrowed her brow and asked, "Investigating Rupert Zeller, will we be...?"

    "No!" Luna directly denied it.

    All they asked were old folks, who keep to themselves and wouldn¡¯t bother to say anything.

    Luna suddenly said, "Your medicine is in the car, it¡¯s noon."

    The two took the opportunity to settle on the second floor of the wonton shop, which was cleaned spotless.

    Just like the wonton shop downstairs.

    The olddy apparently loved cleanliness.

    After taking her medicine, Elliana saw Luna sitting on the sofa looking at a tablet and went over to join her.

    "What are you looking at?"

    The screen showed Rupert Zeller¡¯s house, but it didn¡¯t quite match the current scene. Soon, a little girl opened a second-floor window, sat by it, dazing for a moment, then left.

    "Old surveince." Luna switched to the next day, and the little girl would still sit by the window, dazing.

    Elliana was suddenly a bit surprised, "Where did you get this from?"

    Luna only nced at her sideways and continued staring at the screen.

    ...

    For a moment, she was speechless and had to quietly watch.

    As the speed increased, the scene jumped to February of this year, the day the little girl had the ident. It seemed normal. Aftering back, she would still daze at the window.

    Until May 7th, the girl never appeared by the window again.

    Was she sent away? No, that didn¡¯t seem right. You could see the little girl came back, with no signs of leaving. So how could she vanish?

    If she didn¡¯t leave, how could someone suddenly change their habits?

    The little girl¡¯s login range yesterday was in Whitesun Town. Maybe the range was a bit broad.

    The scene froze in June. Beyond that, the surveince was inessible.

    Luna closed the tablet, leaned back on the sofa, and slowly closed her eyes.

 Chapter 33 - 32: Investigation

    <h4>Chapter 33: Chapter 32: Investigation</h4>

    North City, Vicars Hotel.

    Norman Bet sat alone in the living room, a cup of unsweetened ck coffee by his side.

    Just then, his cell phone buzzed with a message.

    Raymond Wood: "President, Mr. Reeves has invited you to a party at Sunny Grace Manor the day after tomorrow."

    Norman Bet just gave it a nce without any intention of refusing.

    The Reeves family is a business giant in North City. The Bet and Reeves families have never crossed paths, but this could be a good opportunity to get acquainted.

    Seeing that it was almost time, he had to head to the next meeting. He wondered what his little girl was up to at the moment.

    ¨D¨D¨D1:00 PM.

    Whitesun Town.

    Elliana Lyle hade again to Rupert Zeller¡¯s family store, pretending to shop as she browsed through the items.

    Rupert¡¯s mother naturally didn¡¯t suspect anything. The chubby kid was sitting at the counter ying with a phone, but it wasn¡¯t the Xiaomi MIX2S from the morning.

    This wasn¡¯t a big deal, but when she saw Rupert¡¯s father holding the phone, Elliana suddenly recalled something.

    She remembered a corner of a ck phone poking out from Rupert¡¯s mother¡¯s jeans pocket, exactly like the one the kid was holding.

    She had unintentionally noticed it when she was chatting with Rupert¡¯s mother earlier in the morning.

    If the kid had his own phone, he wouldn¡¯t be ying with his parents¡¯ phone.

    Seeing Elliana stop at the local walnut section, seemingly lost in thought, Rupert¡¯s mother introduced, "These are our local specialty, good for health."

    "Really? I¡¯ll take a bag." Elliana smiled as she picked up a bag and nced at the chubby kid, telling Rupert¡¯s mother, "Mrs. Zeller, your child is still young. It¡¯s best not to buy a phone for them to y alone. They can easily get addicted."

    Hearing this from Elliana, Rupert¡¯s mother quickly replied, "We didn¡¯t buy him a phone, that¡¯s mine."

    After saying this, Rupert¡¯s mother snatched the phone ying a game from the chubby kid, saying, "All you do is y on the phone, you don¡¯t even look at the drawing book I bought for you! Go look at your drawing book."

    After paying, Elliana noticed among the card yers was a middle-aged woman holding the Xiaomi MIX2S!

    What does this indicate?

    Even Elliana wasn¡¯t sure. She rushed back to her rented room, but Luna had already left, and she didn¡¯t know where she went.

    With no other choice, she could only call Luna to inform her about this.

    Luna on the other end of the call wasn¡¯t concerned and merely responded perfunctorily, "Okay, I got it."

    ...

    By 6 PM, Luna had still not returned, and Elliana had no idea where she had gone. The longer the time dragged on, the more uneasy she felt.

    Knock, knock!

    Just then, there was a knock at the door.

    She opened it, and it was Luna who had returned.

    Seeing Luna¡¯s dirty feet, apanied by a strange smell, Elliana asked curiously, "Where did you go?"

    Luna didn¡¯t respond, just walked to the sofa and sat down.

    "I went to handle some other business, and the woman you mentioned lives next to Rupert Zeller¡¯s ce."

    Hearing Luna¡¯s words, Elliana thought for a moment and asked in surprise, "Did Rupert¡¯s neighbor kidnap Rupert?"

    "What makes you say that?" Luna did not answer but questioned back.

    Elliana said, "Didn¡¯t you say Rupert was using the same model phone as..."

    Before Elliana could finish, Luna interrupted, "There are many people using that model of phone."

    "Alright, I¡¯m going to take a shower."

    Elliana said, "There doesn¡¯t seem to be a water heater here..."

    Luna: "Then let¡¯s go out and inquire again."

    The two had just left the room and went downstairs from the side of the building to the first floor.

    Soon after, they drove to the entrance of the town, where quite a few elderlydies were already sitting.

    They were chatting noisily, creating a lively atmosphere.

    There was also a tiny shop here, filled with small snacks, some of which might have already expired.

    At this moment, Luna led Elliana in a brisk walk directly to the shop¡¯s counter.

    The shop looked kind of dirty, but then one of the elderlydies stood up, hunch-backed, approached, and asked, "What do you want to buy?"

    "Grandma, I want this tub of lollipops. Can you count them for me?

    Luna acted like a nouveau riche, but in the end, it was still Elliana who paid. Luckily, she didn¡¯t rely solely on mobile payments and had a few hundred in cash.

    After paying, Luna started asking, "Granny, may I ask you something? Do you know why Rupert Zeller withdrew from school?"

    On hearing this question, the granny got spirited but asked in return, "Why are you asking about her? Who are you to her?"

    "It¡¯s like this, I¡¯m a ssmate of Rupert¡¯s. Her sudden withdrawal seemed strange to me." Luna exined.

    "Then you¡¯vee to the right person!" The granny replied with disdain, "How else could she have withdrawn? She got knocked up."

    "Ah?"

    Seeing Elliana¡¯s disbelief, the granny continued, "Don¡¯t disbelieve it. That young girl has always had a tempting look. Around New Year, I saw her get off a small car with two men. I greeted her, but she didn¡¯t reply and just left. Even the way she walked was off. A few monthster, her parents made her leave school. If it wasn¡¯t because she got pregnant, then what?"

    The granny spoke confidently. After hearing this, Luna and Elliana left.

    Sitting in the car, Elliana felt a bit helpless. Sometimes she thought Rupert was just staying well at home.

    If she were really pregnant, maybe Rupert secretly had an abortion at home. So, was Rupert¡¯s cry for help just a prank or genuine?

    Soon, Luna stopped the car at an intersection, "Get out."

    "Where are we going?"

    "Behind Rupert Zeller¡¯s house."

    The sky was gradually darkening. They made their way down an alley, finding the back of Rupert Zeller¡¯s house, surrounded by an open field and a few old-fashioned houses.

    Following Luna, Elliana arrived at the back of Rupert Zeller¡¯s house. There indeed was a back door.

    "If Rupert left from here, it would be believable," Elliana said.

    "Not quite!" Luna squinted her eyes, reaching out to touch the rusted iron door, then tiptoed to the window and shone her phone shlight inside.

    "Hey~ What are you doing? Aren¡¯t you afraid of being discovered?" Elliana hurried to pull Luna away, fearful of being mistaken for a thief.

    However, Luna didn¡¯t heed Elliana¡¯s words, gently pushing the window.

    The creaking sound of the window made Elliana¡¯s heart feel jittery. She looked around, dreading being discovered.

    Luna suddenly said, "Give me a boost."

    ...

    "Take off your shoes before stepping on my shoulders."

    "Ouch, you¡¯re heavy. Please hurry up!"

    Suddenly, Elliana felt her shoulder lighten up. Huh?

    Looking up, Luna had disappeared!

    Where is she?

    Did she go in?

    Before Elliana could react, the iron door cracked open, followed by a faint noise as the door opened.

    Elliana: "..."

    Luna said, "Come in."

    "No way!" Elliana shook her head, trying to persuade Luna to leave.

    Such behavior, if discovered, wouldnd them in a police station!

    "Shh! Listen." Luna gestured for silence, indicating Elliana should be quiet.

    Whimpering...

    Whimpering...

    It seemed, there was crying!

    Luna was already walking inside, Elliana¡¯s heart raced, scanning her surroundings. Seeing no one noticed, she reluctantly followed.

    "Luna~Luna~"

    "Shh! Follow me." Luna took her hand, carefully leading her inside. This didn¡¯t seem like the first floor, as Elliana didn¡¯t see any shelves.

    Nevertheless, the sobbing seemed even more distinct here.

    Once Luna felt it was safe, she turned on the shlight, and the whole room was immediately illuminated.

 Chapter 34 - 33: Donâ€™t Be Afraid, I Found You

    <h4>Chapter 34: Chapter 33: Don¡¯t Be Afraid, I Found You</h4>

    Elliana Lyle finally saw clearly that this was a room filled with misceneous items, with walls and floor made of simple cement, no decoration at all.

    In a corner of the room, there were stairs leading to the shop upstairs, as well as stairs going down to the lower level.

    Without a word, Luna headed straight downstairs, and Elliana nced back at the dark night outside the iron door. After hesitating for a moment, she chose to follow.

    The lowest level still had cement walls and floor but was almost devoid of any clutter.

    There was a door on the wall, likely leading to another room, beneath which dim light seeped through an ordinary wooden door. It was locked from the outside, but a key hung on a nail beside the door frame.

    Crying. It seemed to being from inside!

    Luna grabbed the key and unlocked the door.

    As the door opened, a strange stench wafted out. She saw a girl sitting on a small bed, tears running down her face, staring at them in shock.

    "Ah!" Elliana quickly covered her mouth, startled by the dim light and the girl¡¯s disheveled appearance. She almost screamed.

    This girl was none other than Rupert Zeller.

    Luna stepped inside. Even the light from her phone¡¯s shlight was brighter than the small light bulb in the room. The furnishings were simple, an iron bed frame, a small table by the bed with empty bowls from leftover meals.

    In the corner, a paint bucket served as a waste bucket, already overflowing.

    Elliana finally saw this little girl clearly. She had injuries, bruises on her face, a mix of yellow and green hues. Her bright eyes were filled with fear, yet seemed to hold a glimmer of hope.

    In this cold, damp basement, the girl was wearing only a in white tee, stained with blood. Fortunately, the nket was thick.

    "Who... are you?" Rupert looked at the two, speaking in dialect, her voice hoarse and cracked.

    Elliana¡¯s eyes were filled with sympathy. She replied softly, "It¡¯s me. You sent me a plea for help. Do you remember?"

    Upon hearing Elliana¡¯s words, the girl¡¯s pupils shrank as if recalling something, nodding quickly, and burst into tears.

    It turned out someone really dide to save her. She had regretted not contacting her uncle first.

    On the day she sent the distress message, her younger brother was delivering her meals, possibly busy because it was a market day, and her parents were upied.

    And her younger brother happened to be ying with a phone. She took the opportunity to get the phone, logged into the QQ ount given by her uncle, hoping her uncle would rescue her, only to see a message from a stranger.

    Just after typing a few words, she heard sounds in the stairwell. Terrified, she exited QQ immediately but was still caught by her father, which led to a severe beating.

    Even now, her face still hurt.

    "Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be afraid. I found you." Elliana sat by the bed, reaching out to hold the little girl in her arms.

    This girl was emaciated, trembling all over as she cried. Elliana¡¯s eyes involuntarily reddened, gently patting the little girl¡¯s back, silentlyforting her.

    "Enough, it¡¯s not the time to cry, Rupert. I have something to ask you." Luna directly faced the phone towards Rupert, asking, "Do you know this person?"

    Who?

    Elliana was curious too, only to see a middle-aged woman on the phone screen, with nothing remarkable about her appearance, but dressed gaudily.

    The little girl lifted her head from Elliana¡¯s embrace, looking at the phone screen, her eyes gradually filled with hatred.

    "Yes." Rupert nodded initially, then reluctantly gritted her teeth, "She¡¯s my aunt."

    Having received Rupert¡¯s answer, Luna signaled Elliana to move aside. She began recording video and asked, "Why are you locked in here?"

    Rupert did not answer immediately, instead casting a pleading look at Elliana.

    Luna had to stop recording, saying earnestly, "I won¡¯t harm you."

    Not knowing what Luna intended, Elliana still encouraged by nodding at the little girl.

    Luna asked again, "Why are you locked in here?"

    "I... I¡¯m pregnant. My mom was originally going to have an abortion for me, but... an abortion requires signing, and my mom said she couldn¡¯t bear the disgrace," Rupert spoke slowly, with a slight cough, frequently ncing towards the door, as if fearing something.

    "Go on, does this have anything to do with your aunt?"

    "Yes." Rupert nodded, continuing, "My aunt said if I gave birth, she could sell the child for a lot of money, then split it with my family. My parents agreed, but I don¡¯t want to have a baby. I want to go to school.

    "Later...ter, my dad locked me down here." Rupert couldn¡¯t help but cry again at this point, sobbing, "Mom called me a disgraceful thing, and every time Dad came down, he would do the same thing with those two..."

    "Luna, stop recording. I want to take her out!" Elliana said, moving to hold Rupert.

    "No."

    Luna turned off the phone, stopping Elliana, her baby-face coldly stern. She looked at Rupert, speaking severely, "Listen, I will call the police for you. The police wille to save you. Remember, your aunt is a trafficker, and your parents are even worse. When the police arrive, just tell them the truth, do you understand?"

    "I... I understand." Facing Luna, Rupert nodded fearfully.

    Upon receiving Rupert¡¯s response, Luna prepared to leave. Elliana felt reluctant, full ofpassion for the girl. Before leaving, she told her, "Remember, my name is Elliana. Remember to contact me in the future, okay? I will help you."

    The girl held her hand tightly, sobbing with fear, "Sister, could you please take me with you too? My dades down every midnight, he¡¯ll be down soon..."

    Hearing the girl¡¯s words, Elliana looked at Luna, "Luna, did you hear that, she..."

    Luna, somewhat impatient, pulled Elliana and told Rupert, "Going with us makes no sense for you. You¡¯d only endanger her!"

    Then Luna pointed at Elliana, saying, "Little girl, remember, she¡¯s the one who came to save you. This originally had nothing to do with her. If she hadn¡¯t responded to your plea for help, no one would know you were here, understand? I will call the police for you, and they wille soon!"

    The girl simplyid her head on Elliana¡¯s hand, crying, without saying more. Over time, the hand she held tightly gradually loosened.

    Luna locked the wooden door again.

    When they came out, neither spoke. After a while, Elliana took out her phone to report to the police about Rupert.

    Luna wanted to drive away overnight, but Elliana was not reassured. Luna had to park the car at the intersection until the police arrived.

    "Are you relieved now? She¡¯s not your rtive. Why do you care so much? Waste of time." Luna steered the car, her words carrying some mockery.

    Elliana turned her head to look at Luna, not answering but instead asking, "You came to rescue her too, didn¡¯t you?"

    Seeing Elliana¡¯s reddened eyes, Luna found it hard to smile. She focused on driving seriously, saying, "I¡¯m doing it for money, what about you? Good heart? Someone as foolish as you will get yourself into trouble one day!"

    Faced with Luna¡¯s words, Elliana chose to say nothing more.

    She couldn¡¯t understand how parents could treat their daughter like this. From childhood until now, no matter how big a mistake she made, her parents never really hit her.

    And Rupert¡¯s parents, what kind of people are they...

    "Luna, take me to North City Peacheast New District, Star River Court."

    "Alright, 300."

    Hearing Luna immediately talk about money, Elliana felt a bit agitated despite her initial low spirits.

    She took out her phone, quickly transferred 300 to Luna, and couldn¡¯t help saying, "You¡¯re all about the money, aren¡¯t you?"

    "I didn¡¯t want to charge you initially, but your destination is quite far from where I¡¯m heading, and time is money," Luna rarely engaged in small talk.

    Yet at this moment, Elliana said nothing more, staring at her phone screen with several missed calls and messages from Norman Bet.

    She had left her phone in the car when she went to save someone with Luna,

    She quickly replied, "Norman Bet, I¡¯m here."

    Bzzz~ Bzzz~

    Norman Bet: "You finally respond? What were you doing in Whitesun Town?"

 Chapter 35 - 34: Explanation

    <h4>Chapter 35: Chapter 34: Exnation</h4>

    Elliana Lyle stared at her phone, not knowing how to reply, and the sadness from earlier had dissipated quite a bit.

    She nervously bit her fingernails, her eyes fixed on the screen.

    What to do! What to do!

    After thinking for a long while, Norman Bet had already sent several more messages. She had no idea how to exin to him.

    It seemed she still needed to hide at Phoebe Lyle¡¯s ce, then head straight to the film crew in two days. As long as she didn¡¯t see Norman, everything could be resolved!

    Buzz buzz~

    Norman Bet: "You better give me a reasonable exnation."

    Luna looked at Elliana¡¯s anxious and flustered expression, sighed, and said, "Don¡¯t worry, Rupert Zeller will be fine. She still has an uncle who cares for her. I¡¯ll send you the resultster and won¡¯t charge you."

    Ring ring~

    Immediately, Norman Bet called via video. Elliana was stunned.

    She took a deep breath and then answered the call.

    "Hey hey, Norman..." Elliana grinned. It¡¯s often said that a smiling person won¡¯t be hit; with the dim light, nothing seemed amiss with her.

    At first, Norman Bet¡¯s gaze was somber, but when he saw her, his expression softened.

    At least this girl was safe for now.

    "Where are you now?" Norman looked at the cheerful little girl on the phone screen, and seeing her smile made him less angry.

    Elliana moved the phone screen further away, aiming it at Luna, and said, "I¡¯m here ying with my ssmate."

    Luna nced at the phone with the corner of her eye, teasingly said, "Your dad is really young."

    "No! He¡¯s not my dad; he¡¯s... he¡¯s my not-yet-married husband!" Elliana exined to Luna.

    When he heard the word "husband," Norman was stunned for a moment, his heart in chaos as if his heart was bouncing around unpredictably.

    However, Elliana sensed something was off and corrected herself, "I misspoke, I meant fianc¨¦."

    "You¡¯re in the car, where are you going?" Norman regained his usual aloof tone, his voice carrying an unspoken pressure.

    Elliana looked at the phone and smiled, "I¡¯m going back to Sister Phoebe¡¯s ce, I¡¯ll take a taxi to the film crew myself in two days."

    As soon as she said this, Norman immediately rejected her decision, saying, "I¡¯lle to pick you up."

    "No need! I really am going to Sister Phoebe¡¯s house. Once I get there, I¡¯ll share my location with you, really, I¡¯m not lying." Elliana was flustered, like a child who had done something wrong and had no desire to meet the parent.

    Seeing the little girl¡¯s pleading expression, Norman¡¯s gaze turned even colder.

    This look made her panic.

    "Norman... if you don¡¯t say anything, then shall I hang up?" Without giving the man time to react, Elliana immediately hung up.

    She quickly sent another message, "Norman, I¡¯m sorry," and then slumped back into the chair.

    After a while, she sent a message to Phoebe Lyle, and luckily, Phoebe hadn¡¯t slept yet.

    It¡¯s 10 o¡¯clock now; she would probably arrive at her destination at midnight. It¡¯s much further than directly returning to the Vicars Hotel.

    ¨D¨DNorth City, National Highway 301.

    Norman Bet sat in the car, finding Elliana¡¯s actions somewhat amusing; when would this girl stop lying to him?

    If Shane Southwell weren¡¯t still in the hospital, he would¡¯ve dragged Elliana back as soon as he found out she went to Whitesun Town.

    Now that the little girl is an adult, he would give her some leeway.

    "Raymond Wood, head to Taodong New District," Norman said.

    Raymond was a bit surprised, then remembered something and asked, "President, there¡¯s no need to entertain such a smallpany, is there?"

    After saying this, Raymond suddenly remembered something else, that Phoebe was in the Taodong New District, and he¡¯d just heard Elliana was going there.

    "Is the President going to pick up Miss Elliana?" Raymond had already started to turn the steering wheel.

    ¨D¨D¨DWhitesun Town Police Station.

    Rupert Zeller had been taken to the hospital, while the Zhao couple was brought back to the police station.

    "It was all your sister¡¯s idea, selling a child! If it weren¡¯t for her, I¡¯d have taken my daughter to the city for an abortion long ago." Chloe Zeller, at this point, didn¡¯t want to admit to any crime and began ming her husband.

    Rupert¡¯s father was instantly agitated, "What do you mean it was all my sister? She said we¡¯d split the money from selling the child, and you agreed too!"

    "What do you mean I agreed? Didn¡¯t you agree too? It wasn¡¯t your big mouth talking to your sister?"

    "Silence! This is not the ce for your argument." Officer White eyed the couple.

    The couple immediately quieted down, both looking away from each other, unwilling tomunicate.

    "I¡¯m asking you, who is this sister you mentioned? Is she Rupert¡¯s aunt? What¡¯s her name, and what does she do?" Officer White directed his question at Chloe.

    "I know, his sister is in the city; I don¡¯t know what she does; her name is Chloe Zeller." Flora King bluntly replied, then added, "This matter has nothing to do with us; when can we leave?"

    Officer White chuckled coldly, "Not anytime soon; once the little girl is checked, the two of you will be prosecuted ording to thew."

    He found the pair utterly disgusting; Rupert had cried to the officers, revealing all her parents¡¯ crimes when she was rescued.

    At the time, several police officers were shocked.

    "What... what crimes could we havemitted?" Rupert¡¯s father was immediately flustered, standing up right away.

    The officer next to him who was taking notes said, "Please sit down!"

    Officer White¡¯s demeanor turned cold, "Besides your assaults on your child, Rupert, you¡¯re also suspected of rape!"

    Rupert¡¯s father widened his eyes, pointing at Officer White angrily, "She is my daughter; how I treat her is my right..."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DTaodong New District.

    At midnight.

    Elliana had already fallen asleep in the car, and it took Luna a while to wake her up.

    "Ah, we¡¯re here?" Elliana groggily reached to unbuckle her seatbelt, then grabbed her phone and medication before getting out of the car.

    Luna didn¡¯t linger at all and drove off as soon as Elliana exited the car.

    "..."

    For a moment, Elliana didn¡¯t know what to do, standing there for quite some time before she reacted and hurriedly called Phoebe.

    "Hello, Sister Phoebe, I¡¯m here."

    "Yeah, I¡¯m right behind you."

    Elliana honestly turned around, and sure enough, she saw Phoebe standing at the entrance of themunity, wearing a khaki trench coat. Her long hair was pinned upzily.

    A neutral face with a hint of coldness, she beckoned Elliana toe over.

    Elliana quickly jogged over, smiling as she called out, Sister Phoebe.

    "Hmm, wearing so little, aren¡¯t you cold?" Phoebe asked and started removing her coat.

    With a flourish, the coat settled on Elliana, though a bit long, as Phoebe¡¯s height of 178 cm had the coat reaching her knees, whereas it reached Elliana¡¯s ankles.

    "I¡¯m not cold, achoo!" Elliana said just before sneezing; she felt a bit dizzy, perhaps from sitting in the car too long.

    "Stubborn as a mule, let¡¯s go." Phoebe turned and walked into theplex, slowing down a bit as she walked.

    At Phoebe¡¯s house, the first thing Elliana noticed were the kittens running around the floor and the mama cat lounging on the sofa.

    "Wow! So many kittens." Elliana couldn¡¯t resist picking one up to pet.

    "Sophie White had five kittens; I haven¡¯t sent them out yet. If you want one, you can take it." Phoebe said, heading into the kitchen.

    Elliana shook her head immediately after hearing this, "No need, I have Little Lotus; if I get another cat, she¡¯d be upset."

    At this point, Elliana¡¯s eyes fell, a touch of sadness in them. She never wanted to raise a cat again.

    "After you bathe, drink the milk from the microwave; the room is ready for you¡ªit¡¯s behind you. There¡¯s a bathroom in your room."

    With everything arranged, Phoebe went into her room.

    Elliana entered the room behind her, noticing the cat-themed bedspread; Sister Phoebe really loved cats.

    After her shower, she drank some milk and started texting Norman Bet.

    Cat: "Norman, I¡¯m at Sister Phoebe¡¯s ce."

    Then Elliana also shared her location. Shortly after, Norman joined the share.

    She opened it and immediately froze.

    Norman was at Nanjing International Hotel, just a street away.

    Norman: "Go to sleep; I¡¯ll pick you up at themunity gate in the morning."

    No, please!

    Elliana was instantly on the verge of tears; Norman undoubtedly still remembered her hanging up on him...

 Chapter 36 - 35: Nancy

    <h4>Chapter 36: Chapter 35: Nancy</h4>

    "Meow¨D¨D¨D"

    "Meow¨D¨D¨D"

    o¡¯clock in the morning.

    Elliana Lyle groggily woke up, able to hear the cat in the living room howling fiercely.

    She squinted her eyes and sat up, then got out of bed and opened the door to check. The big cat paused for a moment when it saw Elliana, slowly closing its wide-open mouth.

    Then it started licking its paws as if nothing had happened.

    Seeing nothing was wrong, Elliana closed the door and went back into the room, sitting on the bed and opened her phone, the first thing she saw was a message from Norman Bet.

    "Meow¨D¨D¨DMeow¨D¨D¨D"

    ...

    Why did it start howling again?

    Elliana went to open the door and looked again. The big cat saw hering out and started licking its paws.

    She simply leaned against the doorway, the kitten¡¯s howling made her feel irritated, she looked at Norman Bet¡¯s message, thought for a while, and came to a decision.

    It¡¯s still early now, if she takes a taxi back to the hotel herself, it would be better than sitting together with Norman Bet.

    The reason she¡¯s afraid of Norman Bet is because of what happened in the past.

    I remember when Norman Bet was 24 years old, she was sent to his home by her parents.

    At that time, she pretended to be sick to escape from Norman Bet, and after getting into the hospital, she climbed out through the restroom window, ending up hanging on the 13th-floor wall.

    When Norman Bet saved her, his face was dark with anger. He came over and pped her hard on the butt, making her cry out in pain, and said, "I don¡¯t like people lying to me."

    It seemed that after that, Norman Bet hardly ever spoke to her voluntarily, until she was reborn.

    Ka-chunk~

    The main bedroom door opened, Phoebe Lyle came out in loose gray pajamas, squinting and frowning at Elliana, herzy, neutral voice: "Morning, what do you want for breakfast?"

    "I¡¯m not eating, I... I¡¯m leaving." Elliana leaned against the door, smiling awkwardly.

    Upon hearing she was leaving, Phoebe Lyle paused, then slowly nodded: "Alright, wait for me to get dressed, I¡¯ll take you downstairs."

    Elliana was still wearing Phoebe Lyle¡¯s T-shirt, which was long enough to look like a dress, but her clothes from yesterday were dirty, she was a bit embarrassed.

    If worsees to worst, she¡¯ll have to make do with it.

    At this point, Phoebe Lyle came out of the room, already dressed. She looked at Elliana and said, "It¡¯s long enough, you can go out in it, go put on your shoes."

    Following Phoebe Lyle all the way out of theplex gate, Elliana looked around, afraid Norman Bet might notice her.

    Phoebe Lyle looked at her expressionlessly, scanning her from top to bottom, as if confirming something, she slightly tilted her chin: "Go ahead,e back when you have the time."

    "Okay, Sister Phoebe, goodbye." As Elliana turned she ran into a man¡¯s arms.

    She wrinkled her nose in pain, that scent! Norman Bet! She instinctively wanted to back away.

    However, Norman Bet didn¡¯t give her a chance to leave, with arge hand he directly trapped the little girl¡¯s slim waist.

    Elliana had no choice but to lean close to Norman Bet, her face pressing against his chest, feeling a bit of warmth.

    "Sister, thank you for taking care of her." Norman Bet said politely to Phoebe Lyle, with a hint of respect in his words.

    Seeing this, Phoebe Lyle lightly curled her lips, then raised her hand to cover it, she said, "Take her back."

    "Norman Bet~ let go of me~"

    Elliana frowned, tilting her head to re at him, but his lowered gaze was cool.

    Alright, looks like she¡¯s in trouble.

    After bidding farewell to Phoebe Lyle, Elliana was taken into the car, she sat uneasily pressing against the car door.

    But such small movements were useless, the man casually pulled her, and she was like a moth to a me, directly into his arms.

    Who said she was light?

    "Sit on myp." Norman Bet patted his own leg, indicating for Elliana to sit on hisp.

    "Oh~"

    Elliana obediently sat up, she looked at Norman Bet¡¯s eyes without the slightest ripple, suddenly feeling intimidated, "Norman Bet... I can exin..."

    "Exin what?" Norman Bet looked at her with a teasing smile, waiting for her to continue.

    "I... I initially wanted to go to Whitesun Town, but it¡¯s not for anything bad, I was... just going to have fun." Elliana was still afraid to tell Norman Bet the truth.

    Upon hearing this exnation, Norman Bet showed no emotional change, only a calm expression, "You still haven¡¯t told me the truth."

    "Ah~ Norman Bet, I was wrong." After saying this, Elliana shamelessly pecked on the man¡¯s face.

    Originally she thought that doing so would calm her down, unexpectedly she sat face to face with him, hooking her hands around his neck.

    Norman Bet didn¡¯t move, just lowered his eyes watching her every move.

    Eyes meeting, Elliana buried her face in the man¡¯s chest and ceased her movement.

    Norman Bet raised his eyebrows slightly, what exactly was he anticipating?

    "Norman Bet, you¡¯re not mad, right? I will be better from now on." Elliana said in a cute voice, her forefinger mischievously drawing circles on the man¡¯s chest.

    "Get down!" He reprimanded.

    "I won¡¯t!" Elliana pressed her face closer.

    The next second, her chin was forced up, and the man¡¯s cold lips descended, but inside was warm.

    Her delicate little hands naturally wrapped around the man¡¯s neck, willing to let the man take his fill.

    Until the little girl in his arms softened, losing all strength, only then did the man let her off.

    Elliana, like a goldfish,y in the man¡¯s arms, gasping for air with her mouth open.

    Her swollen lips felt numb, yet somewhat painful.

    Perhaps she didn¡¯t pay much attention just now, Elliana¡¯s T-shirt had crawled up slightly. Noticing the man¡¯s gaze, Elliana shouted, "Norman Bet!"

    Then hurriedly pulled it down, her angry appearance was irresistibly cute.

    "There¡¯s been progress on Nancy¡¯s situation," Norman Bet said.

    Elliana quieted down immediately, quickly asked, "How is it? Where is she now?"

    "No record of her going abroad, herst activity was at Lotus Park in North City, she hasn¡¯t left any traces in recent years, either she smuggled or she¡¯s still in the country." Norman Bet told her.

    This news was definitely unwee to her, how could Nancy have possibly smuggled, if she¡¯s in the country why hasn¡¯t she contacted anyone?

    With Nancy¡¯s personality, she wouldn¡¯t neglect contacting her aunt, nor ignore her for no apparent reason.

    She¡¯s somewhat suspicious, could it be Nancy is in trouble?

    "It¡¯s best to report it to the police." Norman Bet suggested.

    Elliana nodded, when she gets back, she¡¯ll call her aunt.

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    Elliana returned and immediately changed clothes, but Norman Bet went out again, he had to deal with yesterday¡¯s umted matters.

    After changing her clothes, she quickly called her aunt.

    seconds of ringing before the call connected.

    "Hello, who is it?" A voice from the other end.

    Elliana quickly said, "Aunt, it¡¯s me, Elliana."

    Upon hearing it was Elliana, her aunt was clearly a little excited: "How¡¯s it going? Is there news about my daughter?"

    "Aunt... There¡¯s no record of Nancy going abroad, so I¡¯m thinking... we should report it to the police." Elliana hesitated to say, knowing her aunt would be even more anxious upon learning this.

    Suddenly, the line went silent for a while before the voice came, "My daughter didn¡¯t go abroad? Then... Where is she?"

    The tone was shaky, filled with anxiety.

    "Aunt, Nancy may be missing..."

    No sooner had Elliana said this when her aunt eximed, "Girl, please help your aunt, my daughter is all I have..."

    "Aunt, listen to me, you should first go to the police and report that Nancy is missing, don¡¯t worry, if you need me, I¡¯ll definitely help you." Elliana patiently exined to her aunt.

    "Yes, yes, I will report it, I will report it."

    ...

    After hanging up, Elliana stared nkly for a moment, then suddenly remembered something, hurriedly went to grab the script.

 Chapter 37 - 36: Day 1

    <h4>Chapter 37: Chapter 36: Day 1</h4>

    ¡ª¡ªSouth City.

    Jiajia Community.

    This is considered the most rundownmunity in South City. Auntie Nian rushed out of one of the buildings.

    Her wrinkled eyes were brimming with tears, clutching an old-fashioned keypad phone in one hand and holding onto her canvas bag while running out.

    She didn¡¯t stop until she reached the za near the public security bureau. She sat down on the concrete steps, panting for breath.

    This run hadsted two hours. Her back was drenched, and even her hair was disheveled from running.

    She was illiterate and didn¡¯t know how to take the bus, so she could only ask for directions while running. Gazing at the distant public security bureau, her cloudy eyes seemed lost.

    Suddenly, she felt a bit of despair.

    Having lived most of her life, the changes between the city and their rural area had be far too significant.

    Getting up, she continued walking towards the public security bureau, her thin legs wobbling inside the not-so-wide gray pant legs, still tightly clutching her keypad phone and protecting her canvas bag.

    First, she looked up at the big characters of the public security bureau. She couldn¡¯t recognize the words, only confirmed by the symbol she saw.

    "I want to report a case, young man, I want to report a case." Auntie Nian grabbed the hand of a police officer, pleading in her eyes.

    "Oh dear! Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t worry,e with me." The officer saw Auntie Nian¡¯s urgency and hurriedly led her inside.

    An hourter, Auntie Nian came out from the public security bureau and started heading back.

    She returned to themunity, back to her rented room, just a small space two meters long and one meter wide.

    In the corner was a sack of dried buns and a bucket of tap water. On the floor were some clothes and a faded, gray nket.

    She had picked up this nket next to a garbage bin.

    With dusk approaching outside, she ate a dry bun, drank two mouthfuls from the bucket, rested for a bit, then took her canvas bag and a tarpaulin bag out the door.

    During the day, she wasn¡¯t allowed to rummage through garbage bins for bottles, so she changed to doing it at night, with the scrap collectors just across themunity.

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City, Vicars Hotel.

    Elliana was engrossed in her script, practicing while reading, and didn¡¯t notice when Norman Bet returned.

    "Young master, Miss Elliana has been looking at it all day and hasn¡¯t had time for lunch." Lana said, holding a bowl of lean pork porridge toward Norman Bet.

    "Give it to me." Norman Bet took the porridge and walked beside Elliana, directly taking away her script, his tonemanding: "Eat."

    "Ah? Norman Bet, return it to me first! Let me finish thest segment!"

    "Be good!"

    ...

    AM.

    Rumble! Rumble! Crack!

    The rolling thunder was like a mountain copsing, apanied by shes of lightning...

    A little white cat ran to her feet, and Elliana joyfully picked up the kitten, "Hello, Little Lotus, you¡¯re so obedient."

    "Meow¡«"

    In an instant, the Little Lotus in her embrace changed, its right eye became a bloody hole, continuously seeping, its white fur dyed a soggy red.

    Elliana jolted awake, sitting up in panic, her heartbeat conspicuously resonating in the room, thumping loudly.

    At that moment, a deep thunder pealed into her ears, startling her heart with a tremor.

    Yet the thunder paused only for a moment before the next one came again.

    "Norman Bet¡ª¡ª¡ªNorman Bet¡ª¡ª! I want to sleep with you, Norman Bet¡ª¡ª!"

    Elliana pounded the door, and within seconds, it opened. She stumbled into the man¡¯s arms.

    "Norman Bet, I¡¯m scared!" Elliana clung tightly to the man¡¯s waist, her hands sped firmly, holding him tightly.

    Norman Bet was a bit choked by her grip. He gently patted the girl¡¯s back, soothingly saying, "Don¡¯t be afraid, it¡¯s just thunder."

    "I want to sleep with you!"

    "Go back to the room, I¡¯ll watch you sleep, okay?" The man gentlyforted.

    Elliana shook her head like a rattle drum, "No, I want to sleep with you."

    "Be good, we still..." Before Norman Bet finished, the girl in his arms already slipped into the room from his hold.

    Like a rabbit burrowing into the covers, leaving only a pair of big eyes staring at him.

    The man took a deep breath, feeling quite helpless.

    This night was peaceful, at least ording to Elliana.

    However, the man beside her remained awake all night.

    In her unconscious state, her legs asionally wrapped around the man¡¯s waist, and her feet kicked aimlessly.

    AM.

    Elliana woke up, but Norman Bet was no longer in bed, and the sound of running water came from the bathroom.

    She muttered, "Taking a bath so early in the morning?"

    Getting off the bed, Elliana tiptoed on the floor, carefully approaching the bathroom. Just as she pressed against the bathroom door, the water stopped.

    She was still puzzled when suddenly! The door opened from inside!

    The man, showing his chest and wrapped in a towel, looked down at her. His tone carried a hint of teasing, "What are you trying to do?"

    Elliana blushed, dering boldly, "I...I just wanted to see what you were doing! Can¡¯t I?"

    After breakfast, Victor King came to pick her up, saying nothing much other than telling her not to be nervous.

    But today was truly unlucky, encountering a traffic jam halfway, hastening all the way to the crew, she was stillte...

    "Director Lee, I¡¯m sorry, I was stuck in traffic."

    Elliana felt very apologetic, but Thomas Lee didn¡¯t seem to hold it against her at all, instead politely saying, "It¡¯s okay, d you¡¯re here."

    However, the second female lead, Timara Zephyr, red disdainfully at Elliana upon her arrival.

    She sneered, "Just a neer, yet thinking she¡¯s a big deal, isn¡¯t it just because someone is backing her?"

    Victor King was worried that Elliana might get into a dispute with Timara Zephyr, making things awkward for everyone, so he whispered into Elliana¡¯s ear, "Timara Zephyr is an artist under East Glory Film Brokerage Company, which is currently thergest filmpany in the country."

    The meaning was clear, Victor King was advising her not to cause trouble for Norman Bet.

    Elliana knew she was at fault and didn¡¯t intend to argue, only apologized to everyone.

    "Quickly take Miss Elliana to change costumes..."

    After Elliana followed the staff to leave, Timara Zephyr impatiently said, "Director Lee, if Elliana doesn¡¯t work out, wouldn¡¯t she dy everyone¡¯s progress?"

    "Oh, whether she works out will be seenter, please calm down, she¡¯s under Manager Shen¡¯s people." Thomas Lee smiled pestily, trying to use Norman Bet to pacify Timara Zephyr.

    However, hearing this further infuriated Timara Zephyr.

    ...

    The first scene was where the female lead, as the eldest daughter of the Gu family, slips and falls into the water, while the second daughter, ra Grey, does nothing to save her, leading to the female lead¡¯s death and subsequently being possessed by a time traveler.

    Coincidentally, ra Grey was yed by Timara Zephyr.

    "Big sister, if you¡¯re fine, I¡¯ll head back first." Timara Zephyr¡¯s portrayal of ra Grey was one of a delicate youngdy from a noble family.

    "Stop! What are you running for? Are you afraid of me?" Elliana pointed at Timara Zephyr ahead, proudly, with her facial expressions and tone perfectly matching the original character.

    "Afraid of you?" Timara Zephyr might have been provoked, turning around and directly shoving Elliana.

    "Cut!" The director hastily shouted to stop!

    Elliana struggled a few times, ultimately swimming herself back to the shore.

    Thomas Lee instantly dissatisfied, said to Timara Zephyr, "She¡¯s supposed to slide herself into the water, not be pushed by you. Did you even read the script?"

    "Director Lee, I made a mistake just now, apologies." Timara Zephyr¡¯s nonchnt response was a in denial of her anger for pushing Elliana into the water.

    However, Thomas Lee wasn¡¯t truly intending to pursue anything, likely only pretending for the crowd and Elliana¡¯s sake.

    Elliana swam up from the water herself, fortunately she could swim, just identally swallowed a mouthful of water, which tasted evidently disgusting, causing her to want to vomit.

    Li Mian Mian hurriedly helped her up, full of concern: "Elliana, are you alright?"

    "I¡¯m fine!" Elliana lifted her head, ncing once at Timara Zephyr, saying nothing more.

    Little wench, you¡¯re done for, I¡¯m telling you!

 Chapter 38 - 37: Elliana

    <h4>Chapter 38: Chapter 37: Elliana</h4>

    "Hey, Aunt South, how did it go?" Elliana Lyle answered Aunt South¡¯s call in the bathroom at 5 PM.

    But there was no sound on the other end of the phone.

    "Aunt South? Are you there, Aunt South?" Elliana was a bit baffled. Why isn¡¯t she speaking? Did she dial by mistake?

    After waiting for about five minutes and still hearing nothing, Elliana had no choice but to hang up the phone.

    Just as she was about to open the door and leave, she heard someoneing, sounding like Timara Zephyr.

    "You probably don¡¯t know this, but Elliana was already Norman¡¯s fianc¨¦e when she was chasing Shane. Such women, I tell you, are just fickle," Timara said disdainfully.

    The actress next to her, Holly, heard this and immediately mocked, "Some women unt their beauty to be coquettish. How can Norman stand her?"

    "Ah, it¡¯s just rich people¡¯s marriage alliances,..."

    Squeak~

    Elliana pushed the door open and walked out, catching the two who were touching up their makeup off guard.

    However, Timara still rolled her eyes; she wasn¡¯t scared of Elliana overhearing, after all, Elliana couldn¡¯t do anything to her.

    Elliana slowly approached, washed her hands, and gracefully picked up some hand soap, pressing it multiple times onto her hands.

    Taking advantage of Timara applying lipstick, Elliana pped her hand against Timara¡¯s mouth and forcefully shoved the soap in: "Wash that foul mouth of yours properly!"

    "Ah!!" Timara recoiled repeatedly, supported by Holly.

    She spat the hand soap viciously and was about to charge!

    "Let me tell you, if you dare retaliate today, I guarantee you¡¯ll be cklisted in the entertainment industry," Elliana said calmly, washing her hands at the faucet.

    Timara hesitated for a moment and stopped; she was merely an actress, not yet at the level to challenge Elliana¡¯s family.

    Today she pushed Elliana into the water, thinking it would be easy to bully.

    Before leaving, Elliana nced back at the furious Timara, her faceically covered with a mix of hand soap and lipstick; she chuckled, "Remember to wash it clean."

    With that, Elliana turned away.

    "Ah!!!!"

    Timara¡¯s shriek echoed behind her, but Elliana felt no satisfaction; she thought of the things she used to do.

    A man like a deity, mocked by all, because of her; even recent news called Norman an eternal cuckold.

    It appeared he never cared, always loving her without a bit less.

    She filmed a lot today, almost every scene involved her, and she was serious about it, earning Thomas Lee¡¯s approval; now it counted as off work.

    "Elliana, someone¡¯s here to pick you up outside; it¡¯s Mr. Norman." Michelle Liu rushed over flustered, smiling like an aunt.

    Upon hearing this, Elliana couldn¡¯t help but smile, her husband came to pick her up, "Got it, Michelle. See you tomorrow."

    "Okay."

    Outside the corner, on an ornate chair sat a man, Thomas Lee bowing and scraping before him.

    The man sat casually,manding the gaze of everyone around.

    "Norman, you came to pick me up." Elliana excitedly ran over. As the man rose, she dove directly into his arms.

    Snuggling in his embrace, she murmured, "Mmm~ Norman, I missed you~"

    "Good," Norman enjoyed Elliana¡¯s initiative, especially in front of so many people.

    "Ugh..." Thomas awkwardly chuckled twice, cheerfully saying, "I won¡¯t disturb you two then," and swiftly left.

    At this moment, Timara also emerged from the corner, nostrils red with anger watching the scene.

    Holly kept silent, lips pressed together, knowing Timara must¡¯ve been infuriated.

    Others didn¡¯t know Timara liked Norman, but Holly was aware; Timara¡¯s phone wallpaper was this man.

    "Norman, carry me out, would you?" Elliana said, ncing subtly at Timara in the distance.

    My man loves me the most; what right do you have to talk and gossip?

    However, Norman said nothing, simply lifting her in his arms. Elliana, a bit caught off guard, hurriedly hooked her arm around his neck.

    "Wow..."

    There were some strange sounds from the crowd...

    In the car, she sat on Norman¡¯sp, still excitedly gesturing and sharing interesting things from the day.

    The man¡¯s face remained calm, yet his gaze focused on her, quietly listening to the chirping little girl.

    "Norman, why aren¡¯t you speaking?" Elliana paused after finishing, thinking Norman must¡¯ve been annoyed by her chatter.

    Norman touched her head, gently asking, "Did you get tired today?"

    "Not really, I¡¯m not very tired," Elliana replied.

    "Then apany me to a banquet."

    "Sure!"

    ¨D¨D¨D8 PM.

    Sunny Grace Manor.

    This was a hidden paradise in Flower Hill, where even the distant breeze carried the fragrance of flowers.

    Elliana wore a simple white long dress, her hair cascading down her back, with two locks hanging on the left, making her skin appear even fairer.

    Adorned only with a simple lily brooch, yet she looked even more pure and refreshing.

    She held Norman¡¯s arm, walking forward step by step.

    Norman¡¯s appearance was naturally unparalleled; no one in the countrypared to him.

    Yet such a perfect man belonged only to her.

    To close the height gap with Norman, Elliana deliberately wore a pair of 10-centimeter heels, but her feet already started to hurt after just a short walk.

    "Please present your invitation." The greeter spoke respectfully at the entrance.

    Norman handed over the invitation, the greeter checked and found no issues, respectfully saying, "Mr. Norman, please!"

    "Wait a minute!"

    A familiar female voice came from behind, and Elliana¡¯s head immediately ached upon seeing who it was.

    No one else, just Timara.

    Truly a haunting presence, she¡¯s everywhere.

    Timara approached them: "Mr. Norman, does thedy beside you have an invitation? If not, she can¡¯t enter; everyone present has an invitation."

    The greeter quickly said: "It¡¯s permissible to bring a spouse."

    "But! Miss Elliana, what are you to Mr. Norman? Are you considered family?" Timara said word by word, chin raised slightly, expecting Elliana to be speechless.

    "..."

    Elliana was momentarily at a loss for words, ignoring Timara and instead looking up with puppy eyes at Norman, pitifully asking, "Honey~ who is she? Why does she say I¡¯m not your family?"

    "Irrelevant person, let¡¯s go."

    Even as they left, Norman didn¡¯t spare even a nce at Timara.

    The greeter, of course, politely led the two inside, even mocking Timara¡¯s audacity inwardly.

    Who didn¡¯t know who Norman was? Whatever he wanted to bring in, he¡¯d bring it in, even if it was a Tibetan Mastiff, they wouldn¡¯t utter a word.

    "Hello, please present your invitation." The greeter said to Timara.

    Timara red at the greeter; she had no invitation, only knew Samuel Reeves, yet the invitations were personally written by the Reeves patriarch.

    "Madam, please..."

    "Can¡¯t I wait for someone?" Timara angrily red at the greeter.

    Shortly, a man in a pure white suit emerged; he was Samuel Reeves.

    Thick eyebrows andrge eyes, exuding a bad-boy charm.

    "Miss Timara, apologies for the wait." Samuel approached Timara with a smile.

    Timara also donned a gentle smile, replying softly: "It¡¯s okay."

    The greeter nced elsewhere, quietly grumbling: You don¡¯t have the patriarch¡¯s invitation either, right?

 Chapter 39 - 38: My Wife

    <h4>Chapter 39: Chapter 38: My Wife</h4>

    "Norman, your presence truly brings great honor to our humble abode." Old Mr. Reeves smiled benevolently. He was a famous phnthropist in North City, his white hair shining brightly, giving him an almost ethereal presence.

    Beside him stood a young woman, looking quite graceful, especially with those almond-shaped eyes carrying a gentle, spring-like warmth.

    "You¡¯re too kind, Mr. Reeves," Norman Bet replied with a tone somewhat distant; he didn¡¯t particrly like Mr. Reeves¡¯ ways.

    Calling himself a phnthropist while indulging his son to be an unscrupulous businessman.

    "Suwan, this is Norman Bet, the son of your Uncle Bet." Old Mr. Reeves said to the young woman beside him.

    The introduction seemed intimate, yet the Bet Family and the Reeves Manor had no real connections. Norman Bet¡¯s attendance was merely to show respect to Old Mr. Reeves.

    The young woman was named Suwan Reeves, the granddaughter of Old Mr. Reeves, and the most sought-after socialite in North City.

    "Hello, Brother Norman." Suwan Reeves greeted gracefully, her voice even sweeter than a songbird¡¯s.

    However, Elliana Lyle felt a twinge of danger. She instinctively looped her arm through Norman Bet¡¯s and politely said, "Hello Mr. Reeves, I am Norman Bet¡¯s fianc¨¦e, Elliana Lyle."

    "Oh, hello." The smile on Old Mr. Reeves¡¯ face faltered upon hearing Elliana¡¯s self-introduction.

    He hadn¡¯t expected Norman Bet to bring Elliana along, knowing that today¡¯s event was meant for finding a husband for his granddaughter.

    Norman Bet was naturally the first choice.

    Seeing Old Mr. Reeves¡¯ attitude, Elliana Lyle clearly sensed his displeasure toward her.

    "Miss Lyle, nice to meet you." Suwan Reeves still spoke up to greet Elliana.

    At this point, more guests arrived to greet Mr. Reeves.

    Seeing Mr. Reeves needing to entertain other guests, Norman Bet nodded slightly to Mr. Reeves and then left with Elliana.

    Suwan Reeves stared at Norman Bet¡¯s departing figure with her watery eyes, feeling a sense of indescribable difort.

    Everyone knows Elliana is unhappy with the engagement, so why did it suddenly seem alright?

    After entertaining the guests, Old Mr. Reeves looked at Suwan, smiled somewhat wisely, and said, "Jealous, are you? Sometimes you have to fight for what you want, otherwise how will you know if there¡¯s a chance?"

    After hearing this, Suwan Reeves smiled, "Grandpa, I understand."

    She¡¯s just a fianc¨¦e, not married, and Elliana doesn¡¯t truly love Norman Bet. There is still a chance for her.

    ...

    "Norman Bet, why do I feel weird?" Elliana Lyle felt inexplicably angry, but didn¡¯t know why.

    "What?"

    The man¡¯s tone had a clear sense of knowingly asking.

    Elliana pursed her lips, deciding not to engage, picked up a small cake beside her, took a bite, savoring the mango bits inside.

    Just then.

    Suwan Reeves approached with a ss of champagne, "Mr. Bet, may I have the honor of sharing a drink with you?"

    "Miss Reeves, you¡¯re too kind." Norman Bet took the ss.

    Although Norman Bet always had an indifferent demeanor, Suwan Reeves liked such an aloof man.

    Unlike others, who couldn¡¯t wait to grin like a Cheshire cat upon seeing her.

    Seeing someone chatting up her man, Elliana Lyle felt a bit irritated, but said nothing, just grabbing a small mango cake and stuffing it into her mouth.

    Out of sight, out of mind.

    But the small cake was indeed delicious.

    For quite a while, Suwan Reeves continued chatting with Norman Bet, leaving Elliana with the feeling that Suwan was coveting her man. She nced at Norman Bet out of the corner of her eye.

    The meaning was: Man, stop flirting around!

    Norman Bet noticed Elliana¡¯s demeanor but found it amusing. Today wasn¡¯t an especially important event, especially knowing what Mr. Reeves intended.

    Norman Bet pulled Elliana over and said, "My wife is feeling a bit ufortable, we¡¯ll take our leave."

    "Ah?" Elliana chewed her little cake, looking strangely at him.

    She wasn¡¯t ufortable at all.

    "Then, well okay," Suwan Reeves was momentarily at a loss for words.

    Upon leaving, Elliana didn¡¯t forget to grab another cake, realizing inside the car that it was apple-vored, which she didn¡¯t quite like.

    "Norman Bet, you have this," Elliana handed the small cake directly to his mouth.

    Looking at the small cake she had bitten into, Norman Bet said expressionlessly, "I don¡¯t enjoy sweets."

    "Oh~" Elliana then brought the cake back to her own mouth, taking a big bite.

    Eating sweets really makes one happy, her little feet swinging happily.

    "Norman Bet, let me tell you something," Elliana shook her legs, then looked seriously at him.

    "Yeah, tell me."

    Elliana smiled gently, "Let¡¯s get married."

    "What?"

    Elliana¡¯s smile faded, and she said solemnly, "Let¡¯s get married."

    The man gave no immediate reaction, simply watching her coldly, making Elliana feel slightly insecure.

    She suddenly feared Norman Bet would reject her, internally shouting: Say something!

    "Okay."

    This was the single word the man took quite some time to utter.

    Elliana breathed a sigh of relief, her face bright with a smile, she leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, saying, "Then someday you¡¯ll belong to me, Elliana Lyle."

    As to why she thought of marriage today, it was because she felt Norman Bet had been flirtatious.

    Yet this decision was quite significant.

    Elliana nestled in his arms, saying, "Then after I finish filming, we¡¯ll get married, okay?"

    "Okay."

    ...

    ¡ª¡ª¡ªNorth City, Central Hospital.

    Shane Southwell had clearly recovered considerably, at least the bandages on his hand had been removed. He answered a call from his father Cameron Southwell.

    "I¡¯ve taken care of this matter for you, behave yourself for the time being!" Cameron Southwell¡¯s voice remained as furious as ever.

    To Shane, this father had never been gentle, though he never hit him, he shared an annoying habit with his mom ¡ª shouting.

    "Yes, I understand." Shane Southwell replied, already extremely impatient, even wanting to hang up directly.

    "Alright. That¡¯s it, hang up now! You rascal..."

    Beep!

    Without waiting for Cameron Southwell to finish, Shane Southwell hung up directly, casually cing the phone on the small cab.

    He had no interest in listening to such nonsense.

    Cari pursed her lips beside, then said, "Vice President, Joy Lyle doesn¡¯t seem intent on renewing her contract with Rnd."

    "Heh, found a new patron? Let her go." Shane Southwell sneered, but did not lose his temper.

    It seemed Shane Southwell¡¯s temperament improved quite a bit since he took a beating.

    "Vice President, you¡¯re letting Joy Lyle go?" Cari appeared somewhat surprised. Shane Southwell amodating others wasn¡¯t like his style.

    Shane Southwell looked sternly at Cari, "I said let her go, not leave!"

    "Understood, I¡¯ll make the arrangements now." Cari said as she left the ward; she had some ties with Joy Lyle, having reminded her many times.

    However, since Joy Lyle had no intention of renewing, the fault was not on her for ignoring their connection.

 Chapter 40 - 39: Investment

    <h4>Chapter 40: Chapter 39: Investment</h4>

    Vicars Hotel.

    Elliana Lyle had just pushed the door open and was about to greet Lana, who was pouring water, when she saw another man sitting on the sofa.

    A white hoodie, khaki pants, a campus-style Morgan spiked haircut¡ªa more sunny version of Norman Bet!

    "Brat?" Zane Bet was somewhat surprised. What was Elliana doing here? Living with his brother?

    He thought: Impossible, unless Elliana has gone mad!

    "..." Just by his opening, Elliana was sure, it was undoubtedly Zane Bet.

    Elliana didn¡¯t know how to respond for a moment. Zane had been calling her a brat since they were little, and she wasn¡¯t polite either, always calling him "Hanging Ghost."

    Because Zane¡¯s name sounds like "self-hanging" in Chinese.

    However, after calling him that a while, she felt it wasn¡¯t good, so she simply called him "Big Brain."

    Seeing Zane¡¯s surprised expression, Elliana rolled her eyes secretly, said nothing, and walked straight in, with Norman Bet following behind her.

    Unlike Zane, Norman was mature and steady. His side-parted hair, revealing his forehead, made him appear unapproachable.

    "What did you just call her?" Norman¡¯s eyes swept coldly over Zane.

    Realizing his older brother was angry, Zane quickly apologized, "...Brother, I was wrong."

    He had just called out in surprise.

    "Apologize to her."

    Norman walked straight in, still carrying that oppressive aura. In the Bet family, perhaps Zane was the one at the bottom.

    Where there is oppression, there is resistance, but one¡¯s arm can¡¯t twist the thigh.

    "Sister-inw, I was wrong!" Zane apologized weakly, without a hint of sincerity in his manner.

    He hadn¡¯t forgotten thest time Norman made him drink for Elliana, and he was the one who paid the bill! He basically had no money...

    Elliana took the warm water that Lana poured for her, took a sip, and then said with an air, "It¡¯s okay, as a sister-inw, how can I quarrel with a child like him."

    Ha! Zane turned his head disdainfully.

    Wait!

    What did she just say? Zane slightly furrowed his brows, his sharp eyes staring at Elliana. If he didn¡¯t hear wrong, didn¡¯t this brat just call herself sister-inw?

    "Why are you here?" Norman asked, sitting on the sofa as Lana came over with a freshly brewed coffee.

    This reminded Zane of the matter at hand, nearly making him forget the main issue.

    "Bro~ I¡¯m out of money, can you invest a little in me?"

    A grown man acting all cute and pitiful, it was quite disgusting.

    Norman put down his coffee cup, finally giving this brother a serious look, and asked, "Who was it that said back then..."

    Before Norman finished, Elliana, ever the spectator, couldn¡¯t miss a good show. She animatedly mimicked, "I, Zane Bet, will never take a dime from the Bet family again! Even if I die outside, I won¡¯t let you collect my body!"

    Hearing Elliana¡¯s mimicry, Zane froze but then blurted out, "How do you know that?"

    Strange! How did this brat know about his business? Then he instantly figured it out, looking at his brother.

    However, Norman didn¡¯t seem surprised by this kind of thing.

    ...

    This made Elliana awkward, unsure how to exin. After all, in a previous life, Zane himself had told her this when he came to borrow money from her... back when she was already married to Shane Southwell...

    "I...I heard it from your brother!" Elliana quickly shifted the me onto Norman and then quietly drank her water.

    "Ah, brother! How can you be such a bbermouth, telling her everything! You weren¡¯t like this before!"

    "Hmm?" Norman didn¡¯t deny it, naturally epting the me Elliana threw his way.

    Zane was about to cause a fuss but suddenly realized he was getting sidetracked! He quickly got back on topic: "Brother, could you invest a little in me? I got scammed, everything¡¯s fallen apart, and I want to start over."

    "I¡¯m also part of the Bet family."

    Norman refused this brother¡¯s request very obviously.

    "..." Seeing Zane hit a wall, Elliana chuckled lightly to herself. Actually, Zane really has managed to make something of himself. Why not give him a hand, buy some shares, and make money too?

    She looked at Zane, smiling sweetly, and said, "Jingyi, if you call me sister-inw, I¡¯ll help plead with your brother, how about it?"

    "Sister-inw."

    Zane immediately said, though reluctantly. But knowing how to adapt to circumstances is wise!

    He knew, even if Elliana wanted the moon, his brother would help her get it.

    "Cough, cough!" Elliana almost choked on water, shocked at how easily he could bend and stretch.

    However, Norman raised an eyebrow slightly, ncing sideways, eager to see how this girl would plead with him.

    Faced with Norman¡¯s cold gaze, Elliana felt a bit daunted; what if Norman didn¡¯t give her face?

    "Hehe... Norman, just help him out, will you? This kid has been clever since he was little; investing in him won¡¯t be a loss."

    Words alone couldn¡¯t persuade Norman, so she walked to the man, ignoring others¡¯ presence, and sat directly in hisp, softly pleading, "Please, Norman."

    "No manners! Get down!" Norman¡¯s tone sounded... a bit angry.

    Zane, standing to the side, internally mocked: Did she mess up?

    Yet, Elliana showed no intention of getting down. Instead, she nestled morefortably in his arms, turned her head directly to Zane, and said, "Done, go back and wait for the transfer."

    "???"

    What was done? Zane hadn¡¯t seen his brother agree.

    However, Norman did not deny it either. For his little darling, it was worth giving some face.

    Seeing this, Zane quickly said, "Thanks, brother. But there¡¯s one more thing, brother, I don¡¯t have a ce to stay. I just got kicked out by myndlord."

    Zane spoke very quickly.

    Sure enough, Elliana saw the suitcase to one side.

    Thinking quickly, she generously said, "You can stay in the guest room. Tonight, I¡¯ll sleep with your brother." She winked at him to hurry up and go.

    "Thanks, sister-inw, thanks, brother!" Zane, naturally understanding Elliana¡¯s meaning, hurriedly dragged his suitcase towards the guest room.

    Great, tonight she could sleep openly with Norman.

    "Are you sure you want to sleep with me?" Norman gazed at the girl in his arms, and the words seemed to grind out from between his teeth. Sometimes he really wanted to just devour her.

    But Elliana didn¡¯t sense anything strange. Sleeping together was great; she wouldn¡¯t have to fear nightmares and could sleep soundly.

    "What¡¯s the matter? Can¡¯t I?"

    Seeing the littledy¡¯s towering manner, he felt somewhat helpless, didn¡¯t say more, and just said, "Alright, I have a meetingter, and I¡¯lle backte."

    "Okay, I¡¯ll wait for you."

    After Norman left, Zane quietly sneaked out from the room, pping for Elliana, wagging his head and saying, "Brat, you really wrapped my brother around your finger."

    Then Zane asked, "Don¡¯t you like Shane Southwell anymore?"

    Lana was stunned upon hearing this; how dare this second young master speak this way, luckily the eldest wasn¡¯t around.

    "..." Elliana threatened fiercely, "Big Brain, listen up. If you ever mention him again, the investment is off!"

    On hearing he might lose the investment, he quickly changed his tune, "Fine, I won¡¯t say it, but I must also tell you, my brother is truly devoted to you. If you let him down again, we¡¯re done."

    "I would never." Speaking of which, Elliana felt a bit guilty; she really had mistreated Norman in the past.

    Seeing Elliana¡¯s downcast eyes and poor expression, looking almost about to cry, Zane panicked, "Hey! Don¡¯t cry, I was just joking! I didn¡¯t bully you!"

    "It¡¯s you who¡¯s crying!" Elliana retorted at once.

    Then she thought of something, and a gleam shed in her eyes. She said, "Big Brain, how about I propose a deal to you?"

    Zane¡¯s face stiffened, looking at Elliana with wary eyes, staring at her curiously and asking, "What?!"

 Chapter 41 - 40: Not Taking the Sweet Date

    <h4>Chapter 41: Chapter 40: Not Taking the Sweet Date</h4>

    "I¡¯ll let you buy shares. If you need money, just ask me. When you make a profit, give me dividends. How about it?" Elliana Lyle calcted well because she knew Zane Bet would establish a gamingpany in the future, which would be a global sensation that year.

    But at that time, she was too caught up with the Southwell Family to pay attention, and Zane Bet even told her he had found the love of his life.

    "Really! You¡¯re not lying to me?" Zane Bet seemed a bit incredulous.

    "I¡¯m not lying. When have I ever lied to you?" Elliana Lyle said and then gossiped, "Have you got a girlfriend?"

    Zane Bet suddenly got impatient: "...You¡¯re just like my dad!" Then he felt something was off and quickly spat twice to dispel the thought.

    "If you don¡¯t, then you don¡¯t. You should tidy up. I have to go to the film set tomorrow."

    "You¡¯re actually acting now? Well, I wish you be a big star soon." Zane Bet rarely said something decent.

    "Thanks for the kind words!" Elliana Lyle said as she returned to the master bedroom.

    Lana looked at Zane Bet and said, "Young Master, I¡¯ll tidy your room. Do you need me to put away the things in your suitcase?"

    Upon hearing someone wanted to touch his suitcase, Zane Bet got anxious: "I¡¯ll handle my suitcase myself, don¡¯t touch it!"

    "Understood, Young Master." Lana nodded respectfully.

    ...

    After taking a shower, Elliana Lyley in bed scrolling on her phone. Having missed out on gossip for a few days, there seemed to be quite a bit on Weibo.

    One of the headlines caught her eye.

    Title: Shocking! Business mogul Norman Bet visits the South Wind Song set to support his fianc¨¦e. The two were spotted!

    The content was just them hugging¡ªwhat¡¯s the fuss about, yet it was still the third trending topic.

    My sweet couple: "I¡¯m so envious, I¡¯m shipping them!"

    Heart Fluttering Breeze: "It¡¯s so strange, how did these two get together? Wasn¡¯t Elliana Lyle chasing Shane Southwell a while ago?"

    Little Sakura @Heart Fluttering Breeze: "She got rejected by Shane Southwell."

    Seeing thements fromizens, Elliana Lyle didn¡¯t care. As a public figure, one must have a thick skin against public opinion.

    Looking at the photo of Norman Bet hugging her, she unknowingly smiled. Norman Bet looked handsome from every angle!

    However, thest trending topic made her heart skip a beat!

    Joy Lyle got terminated by Rnd, iming it¡¯s due to poor character!

    "???"

    She might believe that the president of Rnd has poor character, but how could Joy Lyle be of poor character?

    Without checking further, she called Joy Lyle directly.

    "Sis, did you see the trending news? What¡¯s going on?" Elliana Lyle¡¯s tone was a bit anxious, tinged with worry.

    Yet Joy Lyle didn¡¯t seem affected at all and calmly said, "I saw it. I don¡¯t intend to renew my contract with Rnd, so Rnd sold my contract to the Art Elegance streamingpany, and since they won¡¯t resell it, I think I won¡¯t have a chance to appear this year."

    "What? Shane Southwell is just disgusting." The more Elliana Lyle thought about it, the more upset she got. Not only did Shane Southwell nder and defame, but he also sold her off.

    If nopany could buy Joy Lyle out, then she¡¯d just be stuck in the streamingpany all year.

    In this rapidly evolving era, who would remember anyone by next year?

    "Alright, don¡¯t worry, Elliana. I¡¯ll be fine. Focus on your acting. It¡¯s your first role ever, so give it your best." Joy Lyle gentlyforted her, not wanting Elliana to do anything for her sake.

    Elliana Lyle had more to say, but Joy Lyle interrupted her: "Alright, Elliana, it¡¯ste. It¡¯s time to sleep. Listen to your sister, okay?"

    "...Okay, good night, sis."

    "Mm, good night."

    Elliana Lyle hung up, then received a message from Luna, immediately feeling her wallet was not safe.

    Surprisingly, Luna wasn¡¯t asking for money.

    Detective Luna: "Something hase out about Rupert Zeller. The child was aborted, and the parents will be imprisoned for their crimes. The sentence isn¡¯t out yet, but it¡¯s confirmed. Her uncle is applying for legal guardianship."

    Kitty: "Thank you for telling me."

    Rupert Zeller getting a new guardian is a good thing. Hopefully, this child will have a better future.

    Detective Luna: "You¡¯re wee. By the way, I found out something about George Lyle. Before he went abroad, he returned every year to pay respects at his parents¡¯ graves. Ever sinceing back from abroad, he hasn¡¯t returned home."

    Hasn¡¯t returned home at all? Would going abroad cause such a drastic change in character?

    Detective Luna: "I need to check what George Lyle did overseas. It¡¯ll cost 300,000."

    Asking for 300,000 just like that, why don¡¯t you go rob someone?

    Of course, Elliana Lyle only thought that to herself. Conveniently, her mother had transferred her 400,000 for living expenses yesterday, so she sent the money over rather straightforwardly.

    Midnight at 12.

    Elliana Lyle still hadn¡¯t gone to sleep, squinting at her phone, waiting for Norman Bet to return.

    But she was on the verge of losing it, so she decided to go wait in the living room. Lana and Zane Bet had already rested.

    At that moment, she was the only one in the living room.

    Sure enough, fortune favors the patient, and Norman Bet returned at 12:12 a.m.

    Norman Bet walked in a bit tired, while Elliana Lyle eagerly took his jacket, holding it in her arms and sniffing it.

    Smells really good.

    Such behavior from the little girl made Norman Bet a bit exasperated. He couldn¡¯t bear to scold her, yet it seemed like she wasn¡¯t afraid in the least.

    "Why aren¡¯t you asleep?" he asked.

    Elliana Lyle tilted her face up and replied with a grin, "I¡¯m waiting for you, Norman Bet. Want me to run you a bath?"

    "Sure."

    With his consent, Elliana Lyle put down the jacket and dashed to the master bathroom, adjusting the water temperature to fill the bathtub.

    However, the man had alreadye in and stood behind her; she just hadn¡¯t noticed yet.

    Seeing the water level rise, she thought it was about enough. She stood up, and when she turned around, the man scared her so much she stumbled.

    Stepping back, she fell directly into the bathtub, causing water to ssh everywhere!

    "..."

    The man¡¯s pupils contracted, initially wanting to pull her up but retracted his hand when he saw Elliana stabilize herself and thenfortably squat in the tub.

    Cough, cough!

    After coughing up some water, Elliana Lyle looked up at the man, who was looking down at her, appearing elegant and noble, with water droplets still falling from his body.

    "Why are you always so clumsy?" The man¡¯s tone, though stern, held a touch of indulgence.

    However, in the next second, the man¡¯s expression changed. Elliana¡¯s sleepwear had gotten wet, bing slightly see-through. He turned his head away and sternlymanded, "Get out."

    ...

    It¡¯s not like she can¡¯t get scared¡ªwhy be so harsh?

    Elliana stood up from the tub, soaked entirely, as the man wrapped her in a towel and instructed, "Go dry your hair. Don¡¯t catch a cold."

    Seeing the girl¡¯s displeased face, the man realized his tone had been harsh and said, "Be good."

    She didn¡¯t buy the sweet talk, dodged the man¡¯s approaching hand, and left the bathroom in a huff.

    In less than three seconds, she returned, not forgetting to close the door for the man even in her anger.

    When Norman Bet came out from his shower, the girl seemed to have already fallen asleep.

    Carefully, he climbed onto the bed, lying at the edge, slowly moving closer, gently pulling her into his embrace as she slept.

    Her hair was still damp, only about sixty percent dry.

    "Elliana! Didn¡¯t I tell you to dry your hair? Did you think my words were meant to be ignored?"

    The girl in his arms slept deeply, unaware and unable to respond to him.

    Sigh...

    The sound of a hairdryer suddenly startled Elliana Lyle awake, and she found Norman Bet holding her... drying her hair.

    She looked up to see only seriousness on his face.

    "What did I ask you to do when you came out?" Norman Bet asked, his face returning to its usual icy demeanor, possibly with a hint of anger.

    "Uh..." Elliana Lyle thought for a moment, unsure, "Dry my hair?"

    "No more doing this!"

    "Oh~"

    In no time, her hair was fully dried, and the drowsiness that had been weighing on her eyelids finally allowed her to sleep.

    At first, the man just held her, but Elliana Lyle kept shifting to find the mostfortable sleeping position, moving restlessly the whole time.

    A soft smacknded on her behind, followed closely by a deep voice from above: "Sleep, don¡¯t move!"

    Sure enough, it worked wonders. The little girl in his arms settled down, soon followed by the soft sound of her breathing.

 Chapter 42 - 41: Livestream

    <h4>Chapter 42: Chapter 41: Livestream</h4>

    The morning light was dim.

    In a daze, Elliana Lyle woke up and felt she couldn¡¯t open her eyes. This feeling made her ufortable, as if she was awake but still felt asleep.

    After a while, she instinctively reached to the side and noticed something was missing, then half-opened her eyes. Norman Bet was already out of bed.

    Up so early!

    Elliana had developed the habit of checking Weibo as soon as she woke up; she hadn¡¯t seen Joy Lyle¡¯s trending topic from yesterday.

    As she imagined, it was filled with baseless spections, nothing substantial. But often when there¡¯s no concrete proof, people discuss it more fervently.

    User137876: "What else could it be? If Rnd doesn¡¯t want Joy Lyle, there must be something wrong with her. Didn¡¯t Eleanor Llyod offend investors for Joy Lyle not long ago? Eleanor was even backstabbed by Joy. I think Joy is definitely not a good person."

    Most of thements were sarcastic and insulting; Elliana didn¡¯t want to read further and directly opened Rnd¡¯s official Weibo.

    Statement

    To all friends concerned about Rnd and Joy Lyle:

    Rnd and Ms. Joy Lyle ended their management rtionship on August 9, 2019. After three years of mutual support, it ends today. We hope everyone continues to follow and support Joy Lyle¡¯s acting career, wishing her a bright future and ever-increasing sess!

    South City Rnd Agency Co., Ltd. August 9, 2019.

    This sounds nice, but among all the rumors online, it¡¯s either Rnd or... Eleanor Llyod pulling the strings.

    Sure enough, below were fans of Joy Lyle feeling indignant.

    "Sounds nice, but why did you sell her contract behind her back? Ignoring years of friendship?"

    "Rnd acts ugly, selling a contract within half a year?"

    The more she looked at these messages, the more irritable she became, so she simply stopped looking.

    She got out of bed and went to the living room, but didn¡¯t see any sign of Norman Bet, only Zane Bet sitting on the sofa ying games.

    Zane Bet is good at keeping habits, never sleeping in.

    "Up already? My brother just left." Zane spoke while focusing on the phone screen, looking quite busy.

    After breakfast, Elliana took a car to the film crew.

    ¡ª South City, Lyle Family.

    Joy Lyle was starting her live-streaming career today, inviting Elliana and her elder sister Phoebe Lyle to be the moderators.

    Sitting in front of theputer, she turned on the camera, all set up.

    She only needed to stream for four hours a day, aside from being an actress, she could sing and such.

    "Hello everyone, I¡¯m Joy Lyle."

    The atmosphere was lively as soon as the stream started, many people were waiting for this moment, but there were plenty of provocativements.

    "Terrible woman, disgusting, Eleanor doesn¡¯t deserve this!"

    "Eleanor took you as a good sister!"

    "Oh, a big star doing live-streaming now, still proud?"

    "Just a passerby, why was she terminated? Really bad character? And who is Eleanor?"

    Joy didn¡¯t pay much attention to these, her face still carrying a gentle smile, she exined softly about the questions in the chat, "The termination was because I didn¡¯t want to renew with Rnd, as for those spective rumors, I deny them."

    However, more and morements appeared, still filled with overwhelming insults.

    Clearly, the live stream was not going smoothly, even someone asposed as Joy Lyle felt helpless.

    No matter what she said, it didn¡¯t seem to work;izens always stuck to their own beliefs.

    Although there were many insults, there were also many gifts being sent, perhaps wanting her to see what they were saying.

    Very quickly, the top supporter spoke.

    Fragrant My Wife: "If you take off a piece of clothing, I¡¯ll gift you a rocket, how about that?"

    As a moderator, Phoebe Lyle naturally saw thisment and immediately banned the person for 365 days.

    Then thements started to change, gradually going in a better direction.

    Especially since Phoebe Lyle had started silencing and banning people, going on a spree.

    "666" "Actually banned the top supporter" "Bold, I like it."

    After banning some trolls, real fans began to surface.

    "Great job, Joy! Those filthy mouths deserved to be banned!"

    "Sing for us, Joy. We support you. Rnd¡¯s behavior is disgusting!"

    Bzzz¡«

    Joy Lyle¡¯s phone rang; it was a message from her elder sister, Phoebe Lyle.

    Elder Sister: "You don¡¯t need to pay attention, I¡¯ll handle inappropriatements, just focus on the stream."

    ...

    PM.

    South City Airport.

    Cari pushed a wheelchair out of the airport, and the person in the wheelchair was Shane Southwell, just out of the hospital.

    Even in a wheelchair, wearing sunsses, Shane Southwell still had the charm to attract thousands of girls.

    A high nose bridge, a jawline like chiseled features, the face of a typical star.

    Unlike the publicly recognized nation¡¯s top-handsome Norman Bet, whose aloof demeanor is truly intimidating, Shane had an approachable aura. Who would have guessed that behind this handsome and kind appearance was someone truly violent and willful?

    Especially the cat rescue incident, which gained Shane several million fans and universal praise fromizens.

    "Brother Shane~ Look over here..."

    "Can I get an autograph, brother?"

    If not for the security guards and staff beside Shane, those fans might have directly snatched the wheelchair.

    In fact, most of these enthusiastic fans were arranged by Cari, though there might still be one or two genuine die-hard fans.

    "Deputy manager, Miss Llyod said she won¡¯t being to pick you up today, she¡¯s already at the Essen Vi." Cari said, not forgetting to observe Shane Southwell¡¯s expression discreetly.

    Eleanor Llyod never wanted to expose her rtionship with Shane Southwell, always talking nicely how she was just a small artist unworthy of Shane, in reality, she just sought more resources.

    "Hmm."

    Shane responded lightly, feeling a little sorry for Eleanor. His Eleanor was wronged, even fearing the headlines just for picking him up.

    ¡ª Essen Vi.

    This was Shane Southwell¡¯s private vi, he didn¡¯t want to stay at home, much preferring to avoid his two loud parents.

    Eleanor still didn¡¯t step out to greet Shane, simply waiting for him toe inside.

    Today, she intentionally wore an elegant yet pure white dress, perfectly covering yet revealing just enough, with her long straight hair tucked behind her ears, inadvertently covering her exposed corbone, giving her a hint of chaste allure.

    Seeing Cari pushing Shane inside, she immediately reced her worried look with a bright smile and ran over to take over from Cari.

    "Brother Southwell, sorry I couldn¡¯t pick you up." Eleanor apologized, her tender face evoking pity.

    "Then I must punish you." Shane¡¯s lips curled slightly, his words teasing.

    Eleanor followed along with a cheerful smile, "As long as Brother Shane isn¡¯t angry, anything is fine."

    Standing not far away, Cari lowered her eyes, inevitably a bit disappointed, knowing it was time for her to leave.

    What punishment could Shane possibly give Eleanor in his condition anyway?

    At the same time, she felt a bit angry, sometimes just wanting to give Shane a wake-up p, knowing what kind of person Eleanor was.

    Yet Shane just liked someone like Eleanor who seemed innocent yet fragile.

    Regarding the online nder against Joy Lyle, Shane even thought it was her doing, when she hadn¡¯t managed to do anything, it was all orchestrated by Eleanor.

    The issue of Joy offending investors for Eleanor was flipped around by Eleanor¡¯s tears, ck turned to white, what wouldn¡¯t Eleanor do?

    Watching their figures disappear around the corner, Cari couldn¡¯t help but sigh. What exactly did Shane¡¯s fondness for her mean anyway?

    Calling her Shane¡¯s lover isn¡¯t quite right, just an assistant paid regrly.

    But Shane depended on her, she knew everything of his, and perhaps this was what set her apart from others.

    But this distinctness, what use did it have?

 Chapter 43 - 42: Set Visit

    <h4>Chapter 43: Chapter 42: Set Visit</h4>

    Inside the vi.

    Shane Southwell and Eleanor Llyod were passionately kissing, almost inseparable, but when Shane wanted to go further, Eleanor forcefully pulled away.

    "Brother Shane, we... we¡¯re not married yet, it¡¯s not appropriate."

    Eleanor might not be ideal in other areas, but with Shane, she indeed showed self-respect. Since she couldn¡¯t force Shane into marriage, she wouldn¡¯t let him touch her either.

    "Alright,e here, don¡¯t stay so far from me," Shane smiled indulgently, reaching out for Eleanor toe over.

    For Eleanor to enter the Southwell Family was still a distant dream. This was why even after winning Shane¡¯s heart, she still wanted to climb higher.

    Eleanor nestled against Shane obediently and shyly, then after some thought, she said slowly, "Brother Shane, could you help me get into the next next season of Survival Ind?"

    As she said this, there was a hint of expectation mixed with caution in her eyes, as if fearing Shane might get angry.

    Survival Ind is a variety show that has be insanely popr recently, making many stars famous. It isn¡¯t truly about survival; it¡¯s a program with excellent safety measures.

    She always wanted to seize this opportunity. Right now, she¡¯s only somewhat known online, mainly becauseizens cursed Joy Lyle, leading more people to know her.

    Even though she¡¯s currently buying fake ounts to attack Joy, this kind of fame wouldn¡¯tst forever, and she still couldn¡¯tpete with top-tier artists.

    After Rnd¡¯s breach of contract, Elliana Lyle reced her, and she couldn¡¯tnd any major roles now.

    She tried orchestrating online attacks against Elliana, but strangely, there was no effect.

    So, she must get on Survival Ind. By then, all she needs to do is establish her persona.

    Shane immediately agreed, pinching Eleanor¡¯s nose affectionately, "Sure, whatever my dear wants, no need to wait for the next season. Let¡¯s aim for the uing one."

    "Huh?" Eleanor seemed a bit stunned, then hurriedly shook her head after realizing: "No, no, the uing season is Sister Summer¡¯s schedule. I only want to fight for the one after..."

    "So what? I¡¯ll give it to you; just take it, okay?"

    Then Shane called Cari and entrusted her with the task.

    When Cari received the call, she was internally copsing.

    Thepany had already arranged for the promising Ning Xia Xia to ept the next season of Survival Ind. Why was this second-tier artist, Eleanor, who had never yed a leading role, getting involved?

    But if she didn¡¯t help arrange it for Eleanor, she feared she¡¯d face consequencester.

    "Damn!" Cari couldn¡¯t help but curse.

    ---

    Horizon, on the set of South Wind Song.

    It was break time, and Elliana Lyle was so tired shey slumped in a chair, while Victor King thoughtfully brought her milk tea.

    "Miss Lyle, recently due to Joy Lyle¡¯s influence, you¡¯ve also been implicated in attacks. Do you want to issue a statement?" Victor asked, though it was more of a suggestion as the decisiony with Elliana.

    This made Elliana sit up immediately. She didn¡¯t respond right away; instead, she took the phone Victor handed her.

    Sure enough, the fake ounts were already attacking her too!

    "Yes, I¡¯ll face it alongside my sister!" Elliana dered firmly.

    "Well..." Victor initially nned to advise Elliana to distance herself, so he said, "Miss Lyle, perhaps staying silent would be better."

    ...

    During this downtime, Elliana checked her social media. Ever since she started in this industry, she seemed to need to keep up with trending topics constantly.

    Art Elegance paid 150 million to buy Rnd¡¯s former signed artist Joy Lyle¡¯s six-month contract!

    million?

    This post was local, so not many people saw it. She quickly clicked to look and found a screenshot of thement under Rnd¡¯s official ount.

    angel: "I heard Art Elegance spent 150 million on a six-month contract. No official exnation? Is this moneyundering?"

    There were just a few scattered replies under this post: "Even though Joy Lyle is somewhat famous, 150 million is excessive. If it¡¯s not moneyundering, there¡¯s a ghost involved."

    Before she could read further, the post was blocked!

    ...

    That night, back at Vicars Hotel, Zane Bet was still gaming, and it seemed Norman Bet hadn¡¯t returned yet.

    "Lana, how long has he been ying?" Elliana asked, changing her shoes.

    Lana nced at Zane, then whispered, "A whole day. He barely ate lunch."

    "Smart guy! Stop ying. Aren¡¯t you making a game? Why y someone else¡¯s game?" She spoke with some exasperation, hoping for Zane to earn money!

    Zane, avoiding the question, replied, "You¡¯re back. Did things go smoothly today?"

    "Smart guy! It¡¯s hard to invest in you with this attitude!"

    "Oh, right! You go ahead and eat," Zane replied absentmindedly, clearly not listening!

    ---

    Next day, on the set of South Wind Song.

    Today¡¯s scene was a kiss between the female lead and male lead. Elliana refused to perform it for real, even though Yates Zander was nice and gentlemanly.

    Timara Zephyr stood by, arrogantly saying, "Could you be more professional, please?"

    "..." Elliana really couldn¡¯t imagine how Norman would react if he knew.

    "Director Lee, can we use stand-ins?" Using stand-ins was Elliana¡¯s finalpromise.

    Upon hearing this, Timara impatiently said, "Elliana, can you stop holding up everyone¡¯s progress? Shooting a kiss scene won¡¯t kill you, right?"

    "Yes, it would!" Elliana replied honestly.

    At that moment, Victor stepped in and said, "Director Lee, you haven¡¯t forgotten the contract terms, have you?"

    Initially, Thomas Lee sought authenticity but when he heard "contract," he quickly smoothed things over, "Then let¡¯s use stand-ins, get ready everyone."

    This scene couldn¡¯t waste more time.

    Yates wrapped an arm around her waist, and Elliana had no choice but to lean into him, drawing closer until they were nearly touching.

    Yates was undeniably handsome, with great skin, though he carried a jasmine scent, a thoughtful touch given his character¡¯s love for the flower.

    "Closer!" Thomas Lee called out.

    "Is there no stand-in in the crew?" A voice, cold and oppressive, came through, making Thomas Lee shiver.

    Norman Bet arrived, checking on his little girl, coincidentally walking in!

    Elliana quickly retreated a few steps, putting distance between herself and Yates.

    The authoritative man walked straight toward her with an unmistakably angry expression.

    Elliana stood there feeling uneasy, she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong! She could exin!

    The man approached, dominantly pulling her into his arms, making a direct deration of ownership, then said to Thomas Lee, "In the future, her romantic scenes, use a stand-in!"

    "Yes, yes, yes!" Thomas Lee nearly broke a sweat; he forgot that Elliana was engaged to this man.

    Thomas Lee assumed Norman wouldn¡¯t often visit Elliana on set, but clearly, he was wrong.

    Timara watched the intimate interaction between the two, her eyes revealing unconcealed jealousy, but she saw clearly Norman would never pay her any mind!

    Elliana looked up at the man, exining, "Norman, I was just kissing."

    In her flustered state, Elliana mistakenly said "kissing" instead of "using a stand-in," and the man¡¯s face turned even darker, looking extremely grim.

    This little girl! She really said it!

    She hurriedly exined, "Ugh! I meant we were pretending to kiss! It wasn¡¯t real!"

 Chapter 44 - 43: Snow Fans Stirring Up Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 44: Chapter 43: Snow Fans Stirring Up Trouble</h4>

    After finishing today¡¯s scenes, she could rest for a day. However, when sitting in the car with Norman Bet, she felt a bit anxious.

    "Norman Bet..."

    The man held her slender waist tightly, and upon hearing the little girl in his arms call him, he reluctantly loosened his grip.

    He somewhat regretted sending the little girl to act, as it¡¯s not like he couldn¡¯t afford to support her.

    "Norman Bet, what¡¯s wrong with you?" Elliana Lyle stared at him with big eyes, looking at him intently.

    Asking knowingly.

    The man didn¡¯t answer her, he just focused his gaze on her lips.

    Mmh~

    The sudden kiss caught Elliana off guard, the man wrapped her waist in his arm, and pressed the back of her head with one hand.

    Unlike before, it was not gentle but aggressive with a hint of dominance.

    Ten minutes passed...

    Elliana felt severelycking oxygen, her body went limp, leaning against the man like water.

    The journey was still long, Elliana rested for a while before starting to y on her phone.

    She habitually opened Weibo, and at first nce saw a familiar name. Joy Lyle was once again trending on the hot topics.

    Following closely behind was Eleanor Llyod. Upon opening it, the news was unfavorable to Joy!

    It was still the matter of Ada Lyle offending an investorst time, and Eleanor¡¯s fans wouldn¡¯t let go, brewing it into usations of Joy being ungrateful.

    Thements below were all people standing up for Eleanor.

    Snow Ball: "Joy is a piece of trash, she offended the investor on her own, which left our Eleanor and other Rnd artists without roles to act. She just walked away,pletely ignoring the years of cultivation and resource pouring by thepany, and even during thepany¡¯s crisis, went to a live streamingpany to make money!"

    Snow Jewel: "Joy is a backstabber! Such a person isn¡¯t fit to be a public figure, suggesting a total ban!"

    This matter was already very serious, more influential than the usual drama that urred before!

    Elliana quickly took a screenshot and sent it to Joy.

    Cat: "Sis, what exactly is going on?"

    Joy was a bit surprised to see the message from Elliana.

    She didn¡¯t know she was trending again, as she rarely paid attention to these things.

    Seeing these spective discussions and personal attacks, she frowned deeply. Although she remained calm, even she couldn¡¯t help but get angry.

    Soon, Elliana received a reply from Joy.

    Sis: "Elliana, even I didn¡¯t know about the transfer to Art Elegance Media at first. Rnd sold my contract and only informed me afterward."

    Elliana knew Eleanor Llyod well, she loved to y the victim and was skilled at getting her fans to tear into other female artists, while she herself stayed silent.

    Cat: "Sis, you should issue a statement, can¡¯t let Eleanor¡¯s fans keep talking."

    Now issuing a statement was the best way, couldn¡¯t stop the public opinion, also couldn¡¯t let the uninformed benefit from one-sided gossip.

    Sis: "Alright."

    Not long after, Elliana saw Joy¡¯s new post on Weibo, she publicly disclosed the reason for the change in her contract!

    Statement:

    Regarding the change in contract and leaving Rnd, I hereby exin:

    Rnd did not discuss with me directly and transferred my remaining contract to Art Elegance Media Company, separating with Rnd was peaceful, and there is no grudge.

    To support her sister, Elliana also left ament under the statement.

    Really wish these rumors would settle down quickly.

    Norman Bet observed her busyness quietly, the entertainment circles were ustomed to such happenings, here there is no right or wrong, only interests.

    Seeing the little girl finally put down the phone, wearing a look of anger, he said: "Rest if you¡¯re tired, it¡¯s still early."

    "Norman Bet, I¡¯m so mad, they don¡¯t know anything yet are scolding there!" Elliana began toin to the man.

    Then she looked up at the man, asking: "Do you think they are just bored?"

    "Hmm."

    ...

    Returning to the hotel, Zane Bet was still sitting on the sofa, not ying on the phone, eyes focused on theputer screen.

    Elliana had no idea what he was doing, so she chose not to interrupt and directly sat on the other side of the sofa.

    Lana immediately brought her lemon water.

    "I¡¯ve bought you a house, now, move out!" This was the first sentence Norman Bet said when he returned, and it was directed at Zane Bet.

    Busy Zane Bet, hearing his brother bought him a house, immediately shut theputer down, "Thanks, brother!"

    He happily received the key card from Norman, and rushed past the living room, starting to pack his things promptly.

    Elliana just sat on the sofa silently watching, not saying a word.

    She was thinking, is Norman Bet angry? Does he not n on sleeping with her tonight?

    After sending off Zane Bet, Elliana instead felt a bit bored. Norman was busy with work, she had no choice but to stay beside the man continuing to browse through Weibo.

    The mood was settling, Joy¡¯s fans already started to retaliate against Eleanor, after all, Joy was an A-list artist, her fan count was significantly more than Eleanor¡¯s.

    Better as ever: "Eleanor only attained her current status by selling herself through hidden deals, yet has the audacity to scold my sister here?"

    Dream West Coast@Better as ever: "Speak with evidence, are you just ranting mindlessly?"

    Late arrival@Dream West Coast: "How is there no evidence? Your Eleanor was originally a hostess years ago, there¡¯s evidence with pictures, just Google it yourself!"

    Subsequently, Joy released an announcement, urging fans not to be too aggressive, her contract with Rnd was over, and she no longer had any partnership with Rnd.

    Then Elliana saw a push notification video, a middle-aged man said: "Joy¡¯s fans are standing up for Ada Lyle in Rnd¡¯s official statement, who is right and who is wrong, Big Mouth has opinions!"

    Elliana decisively closed the video, she wasn¡¯t there to listen to anyone¡¯s opinions, she would check it out herself.

    Under the Rndpany¡¯s statement, she saw thements left by Joy¡¯s fans.

    "What does Rndpany mean by selling Joy¡¯s contract at this critical moment? Even sold it to a live streamingpany? You¡¯re essentially ending my Joy¡¯s acting career by making herpletely obey the live streamingpany¡¯s arrangements for the next six months, having to live stream each day, and when the contract ends half a yearter, who will remember my Joy is an actor? To turn Joy into a streamer?"

    Seeing these, Elliana feltforted, Joy¡¯s fans at least were standing by Joy, preventing a sheer one-sided situation.

    At the same time, she also felt worried, would she also get caught up in such things in the future?

    Night fell.

    After bathing, Elliana nned to sleep early, to her surprise, Norman Bet had no intention of going to the other room.

    "Hehe!" Elliana scooted over to the edge, patting the bedsheet beside her.

    Norman remained unmoving, standing straight by the bed, lost in thought.

    "Sleep early," was all he left saying, leaving without turning back.

    "..."

    Elliana suddenly felt a bit upset, she had kindly given up the spot!

    If you¡¯re noting, I can go to you, right?

    So she went directly, getting off the bed, heading straight for the other room.

    Without knocking, she barged in, Norman was visibly irritated by such conduct.

    He was holding back, so what was she doing?

    "Norman Bet, I want to sleep with you!" Elliana clutching her carrot pillow, stood at the doorway, closing the door in the process.

    The man approached her step by step, cornering her into a very tight spot, with one hand against the wall and looking down at the little girl who had nowhere to escape, he said: "Do you know what you¡¯re doing?"

    "Huh? What did I do?" Elliana quickly recalled, she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong.

    The man looked somewhat helpless, seriously cautioning: "Girl, I¡¯m a man, you¡¯re still young, I don¡¯t want to take advantage of you."

    "...Elliana took a while to react, she may be young but she surely knew what was going on!

    So she quietly replied: "You can choose not to eat the pork, just watch the pig run."

    This made Norman Bet amused, grabbing her horizontally and hurling her onto the bed!

    A warm kiss descended.

    ....

    After a very long time...

    The man finally let her go, but did not proceed further, just holding her in his arms, gently patting her back.

 Chapter 45 - 44: Still Fermenting

    <h4>Chapter 45: Chapter 44: Still Fermenting</h4>

    The next day.

    When Elliana Lyle woke up, it was already broad daylight, another day waking up to find Norman Bet absent from the bed.

    After breakfast, Norman looked at her and asked, "I have free time today to apany you, is there somewhere you¡¯d like to go?"

    "Are you saying you want to take me out?" Elliana was a bit excited; she had nned to y on her phone all day, but she didn¡¯t expect Norman to be free today.

    "Yes." The man nodded slightly.

    Now... she had to think carefully. What¡¯s fun in North City?

    The tourist spots were nothing special, but the food at Deer Park Amusement Park was famous, and she hadn¡¯t been there yet.

    She grinned at Norman and said, "I want to go to Deer Park Amusement Park!"

    However, as soon as Norman heard, he said directly, "Too noisy, choose another ce."

    "Why? No, I want to go to Deer Park Amusement Park!" Elliana quickly clung to the man¡¯s arm and pleaded, an expression of appeal on her face.

    "Please, Norman."

    The man slightly lowered his gaze, "How will you convince me?"

    How to convince him?

    That question left Elliana at a loss; seeing the little girl¡¯s momentary pause, the man watched her calmly.

    Smack~

    The little girl hugged his neck and nted a kiss on his cheek, a firm one, leaving his face a bit moist.

    Seeing the saliva on the man¡¯s face, Elliana giggled, "Let me wipe it for you."

    Just as she reached out her hand, the man pulled her into his arms for a gentle and lingering kiss...

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City, Deer Park Amusement Park.

    This ce, filled with hundreds of mixed sounds, was what Norman disliked the most, but since the little girl holding his hand liked it, he reluctantly epted it.

    The two of them stood out here not only because of Norman¡¯s natural aura but also because Raymond Wood had arranged two bodyguards.

    "Norman, I want a balloon!"

    "Okay."

    "I want to eat that grilled squid!"

    "Okay."

    ...

    After a round, Elliana visited all the food stalls and showed no interest in the roller coasters and such.

    Of course, she was the only one eating, and after a forceful feeding session, Norman grudgingly took a couple of bites.

    This forced feeding was done with...!

    Feeling tired from walking, she spotted a coffee shop in the distance with a pure, simple, ck and white sign.

    "Norman, let¡¯s go in and have a seat," Elliana pointed ahead, her legs aching from walking.

    "Okay."

    Whatever she said, he agreed to everything, and hand in hand, they were a scenic view at the amusement park.

    "Isn¡¯t that Elliana?"

    "Seems like it!"

    "The man beside her must be Norman; he¡¯s really handsome in person!"

    "I want an autograph..."

    A girl was just about to approach them, but a chilling nce from one of the bodyguards instantly scared her away!

    ...

    The coffee shop was quieter than outside, and Elliana ordered two cups of unsweetened bitter coffee. She wanted to taste the coffee Norman drank every day.

    "So bitter, so bitter!" Elliana took a sip and instantly found it hard to swallow.

    In contrast, Norman was elegant, calm, and dignified; just sitting there seemed to elevate the entire coffee shop¡¯s ss.

    At that moment, a group of girls walked in, chatting animatedly about something.

    It seemed like they were discussing Joy Lyle.

    "Whoa, a sky-high contract; I don¡¯t think Joy is worth that much!"

    "Exactly, the entertainment industry is really chaotic now!"

    A sky-high contract?

    The 150 million one? She had identally seen it a few days ago; could it be true?

    Without time to think, she quickly took out her phone to check the situation.

    The inte was in an uproar again, with the current contentpletely different from yesterday¡¯s.

    ording to an insider¡¯s tip, Joy¡¯s half-year contract was sold for a sky-high 150 million.

    Netizen 107: "150 million? Oh my, are celebrities worth that much now? A half-year contract for 150 million?"

    Miss Butcher: "Could it be Joy, Art Elegance, and Rnd areundering money?"

    Netizen 4267@Miss Butcher: "No doubt about it, if it¡¯s not moneyundering, then there¡¯s definitely something fishy!"

    Moneyundering is no small matter; it¡¯s a financial crime. She quickly messaged Joy.

    Kitten: "Sis, did you see? What¡¯s going on with the sky-high contract online?"

    Sis: "I just saw it too; I don¡¯t know. The contract was signed by Rnd and Art Elegance without my knowledge."

    "Norman, the inte says my sister signed a sky-high contract!" Elliana handed her phone to the man.

    Norman nced at it and then said, "Hmm, do you believe it?"

    "No, of course, I don¡¯t believe it!"

    "There¡¯s nothing to discuss about uncertain things," Norman said calmly, contrasting with Elliana¡¯s anxiousness.

    "Oh!" Even though Elliana was still a bit worried and had lost the mood to keep ying, she could only say, "Norman, let¡¯s go back."

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    After returning, Elliana checked the onlinemotion again.

    Rnd, Art Elegance, and Ada came forward with urgent denials as things started to spiral out of control.

    Rnd:

    Solemn Statement:

    Joy Lyle¡¯s contract was transferred to Art Elegance Media Company for Joy to be a gship host. Ourpany and Art Elegance Media Company have conducted a peaceful, reasonable, andwful contract transfer.

    An original photo of the contract change was disyed below the statement, clearly stating that the contract transfer fee was 3 million.

    At the end was awyer¡¯s letter stating full responsibility would be pursued against anyone spreading rumors. We urge everyone not to create or spread rumors.

    Simultaneously, Art Elegance Media also denied the rumors online, stating they would seek legal action against those spreading rumors, iming it seriously defamed theirpany image and would seekpensation. Please do not believe or spread rumors!

    But what caught her attention was Joy¡¯s statement.

    Joy Lyle:

    I was not aware of the contract matter beforehand. Although I am somewhat displeased with my contract being transferred, it is reasonable andwful. I will fulfill my duties as stated in the contract strictly.

    Regarding the sky-high contract, I am unaware of the details, but I will pursue legal responsibility against those speaking and spreading nder. I hope everyone will not believe or spread rumors!

    Elliana initially thought the three-party statements would calm theizens, but someone posted a contract online showing indeed a 150 million transfer fee!

    Initially suspected to be photoshopped, Elliana felt like she couldn¡¯t help much and was left anxious.

    The following day.

    Elliana returned to the film set feeling a bit worn out. She hadn¡¯t slept well until after midnightst night, and now she was basically listless.

    "Alright, there¡¯s a scene with spicy duck headster. Elliana, prepare yourself and try to pass in one take," Thomas Lee instructed from one side.

    Elliana summoned all her energy and prepared herself.

    "Okay! All departments in position!"

    Holding the oiled paper bag with bright red spicy duck heads, Elliana thought this scene would be great.

    With the director¡¯s signal, she started eating, but as soon as she tasted it, she realized something was wrong. The spiciness made her entire mouth feel as if it was being scorched byva!

    Cough, cough...

    The spicy duck heads scattered on the ground; she could hardly speak from the pain, hunched over the table, coughing continuously!

    "Can you be a bit more professional?" Timara Zephyr said disapprovingly.

    "Cough, cough! No, it¡¯s too... too spicy! Water..."

    Yates Zander noticed something was wrong and quickly ran over with a bottle of mineral water, gently holding Elliana and carefully feeding her the water.

    The one drinking had red eyes and continuously swallowed, quickly finishing the whole bottle.

    "Are you okay?" Yates asked with concern.

    "I¡¯m... I¡¯m fine..." Elliana finally felt alive again, going limp in Yates¡¯s arms, gasping for air.

    Victor King quickly came over to support Elliana.

    Yates picked up the spicy duck head from the ground and tasted it, instantly furrowing his brow, "Director, there¡¯s something wrong with this prop!"

 Chapter 46 - 45: Setting an Example

    <h4>Chapter 46: Chapter 45: Setting an Example</h4>

    "Is there a problem? What kind of problem?" Thomas Lee was somewhat surprised. He initially thought Elliana Lyle couldn¡¯t handle spicy food, causing the incident halfway through. However, since Yates Zander mentioned there was an issue, he had to take a look.

    He first picked up one of the intact spicy duck heads and carefully licked it.

    Everyone watched as Thomas Lee¡¯s face turned beet red, spitting several times on the ground!

    Even tasting it a little made his tongue hurt, let alone Elliana Lyle who put the whole thing in her mouth and chewed a few times¡ªthe difort must have been unimaginable!

    Meanwhile, Thomas Lee was also panicking. If something happened to Elliana Lyle, Norman Bet would get back at him!

    He shouted in anger, "Props team, how are you handling things? Who the hell did this?"

    A girl with short ear-length hair stepped out, visibly flustered. She had no idea what the problem with the props was either.

    She said, "Director Lee, this was prepared yesterday. It was stored in the fridge overnight, so it shouldn¡¯t have any issues. You even ate one this morning, remember?"

    Thomas Lee remembered he indeed ate one this morning because he was hungry at the time.

    At this moment, the head of the props team, Lewis Wang, spoke, "Director Lee, the props I prepared couldn¡¯t possibly have a problem. Even if they turned a bit sour, it¡¯s not to the point of being unbearable. Most actors have been doing fine with them."

    Implying Elliana Lyle might be too sensitive.

    Victor King was still feeding Elliana Lyle water. She held the ice water in her mouth, afraid to spit it out or swallow.

    She stared intently at Timara Zephyr, who was standing not far away. Timara, who usually loved pointing out faults, was surprisingly silent this time and averted her gaze when meeting Elliana¡¯s eyes.

    Director Lee had already handed the spicy duck head to Lewis Wang and angrily said, "You eat it yourself! Don¡¯te tomorrow! Rece the head of the props team!"

    "No! Director Lee! I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on either. This is..."

    "No need to exin! The props had issues, and you¡¯re the main responsibility!" Thomas Lee didn¡¯t give him any chance to defend himself and directly dismissed Lewis Wang.

    Helplessly, Elliana Lyle couldn¡¯t speak, just stared nkly.

    Lewis Wang was furious, shouting, "Fine then, I quit! This lousy crew¡ªI didn¡¯t want to work here anyway!"

    He left without looking back, and nobody attempted to persuade Thomas Lee otherwise, knowing offending Elliana Lyle was equivalent to offending Norman Bet.

    And Thomas Lee saw through it clearly; it was unlikely the props team was at fault. He simply didn¡¯t want to escte the situation and make it ugly in the end.

    "Elliana, try drinking some milk; see if it helps ease the difort." Yates Zander thoughtfully brought some whole milk and, with a worried face, said to Victor King, "Sister Wang, it¡¯s best to take Elliana to the hospital."

    "Okay." Victor King responded. She hadn¡¯t tried the spicy duck head, but seeing Elliana¡¯s forehead sweat knew it was serious.

    Thomas Lee naturally had no objections, hoping Elliana would mention fewer words to Norman Bet on ount of firing the props leader.

    "Sister Wang, let me." Yates Zander took Elliana Lyle from Victor King¡¯s arms, carefully lifting her with a gentlemanly hand supporting her waist.

    There was quite a distance to her car, and Victor King, along with several members from Elliana¡¯s studio, followed.

    In the car, after settling Elliana, Yates Zander stepped out, and Victor King said to those behind, "You have the day off today."

    ...

    "Cough, cough!" Elliana repeatedly held the ice water; though it eased the pain slightly, it wasn¡¯t very effective.

    Despite the pain, it was better than before, at least allowing her to speak.

    Victor King had already contacted Norman Bet, but when he heard the news, he immediately hung up.

    Upon arriving at the hospital, the first person she saw was Norman Bet!

    The man said nothing, quickly lifting her up, striding swiftly inside, and soon finding the otorhinryngology department.

    "Ah, open your mouth, yes." Doctor ire White carefully examined her, finally applying some medication.

    She said to Norman Bet, "There¡¯s nothing serious. Just need to be careful in the future, and watch your limit with spicy food."

    ire White was a college mate of Norman Bet and also treated Elliana¡¯sst cold.

    He seemed gentle and friendly, with a schrly ease about him, yet spoke with an air of seasoned warmth.

    "Hmm." Norman Bet profoundly exhaled in relief; receiving Victor King¡¯s call earlier had put him in a panic.

    Fortunately, his little girl was alright.

    "Lewis, take this prescription and get the medication." ire White called out to someone outside.

    ...

    Back at the hotel, Lana was already brewing pear and rock candy syrup. Seeing Elliana Lyle return safely, she too sighed in relief.

    "Miss Lyle, you¡¯re back. I made you pear and rock candy syrup; it¡¯ll be ready soon." Lana said.

    Elliana Lyle didn¡¯t say anything, just nodded in acknowledgment; she really didn¡¯t feel like speaking.

    "Dear, rest well at the hotel. I have some matters; I may returnte tonight, but I will be back." Norman Bet ced Elliana on the couch, earnestly advising her.

    Elliana just nodded, gave him a hug, signaling him not to worry.

    Norman Bet soon left in a hurry, and she suddenly realized how busy he seemed, unlike before when she naively thought he had nothing to do.

    Now... she felt Norman Bet was too busy.

    Half an hourter, Lana brought the pear and rock candy syrup to her, feeding Elliana spoon by spoon.

    "Miss Lyle, do you feel any better?" Lana observed her with hopeful eyes, hoping she was better.

    Elliana merely nodded in response. Though she wasn¡¯t hurting as much at the moment, she still felt swollen and ufortable, more annoying than when she had a cold.

    Pikachu?¡«...

    The phone rang, and Elliana saw it was her mother calling.

    "..."

    So she set the call to speaker and gestured to Lana to take it.

    "Hello, Mrs. Lyle. I¡¯m Lana." Lana courteously greeted.

    Upon hearing her, Elliana¡¯s mother quickly asked, "Hello, is Elliana there?"

    "Here¡¯s the situation, Mrs. Lyle. Ms. Lyle has a sore throat; she¡¯s right next to me." Lana responded.

    "Elliana, Joy just got taken by the police, saying something about financial crime! I¡¯ve already asked your dad to figure it out. Can you ask Norman for help? I can¡¯t believe Joy would do anything criminal!"

    This news utterly shocked Elliana. She couldn¡¯t process it; how could Joy get taken by the police overnight?

    "Mom~ what¡¯s going on~ huh?" Elliana¡¯s voice was hoarse, like a duck.

    Elliana¡¯s mother was stunned and quickly asked, "Elliana dear, what¡¯s wrong with your voice? Did you catch a cold? It¡¯s autumn, and the temperature differences in North City are big; take care of yourself, have you seen a doctor?..."

    After about ten minutes, Elliana ended the call with her mom.

    Despite questioning for so long, her mom didn¡¯t know what exactly transpired.

    Seeing it was gettingte, Elliana figured Norman Bet must be busy, so she sent him a couple of messages.

    About an hourter, Norman Bet replied.

    Norman Bet: "Currently detained for suspected financial crimes pending investigation results."

    Norman Bet: "Don¡¯t worry, as long as I¡¯m here, your cousin won¡¯t be in danger."

    Despite the man¡¯s assurance, Elliana couldn¡¯t help but worry.

    Why did it have to be Joy? She worried Joy might get into trouble. Now in North City, going back wasn¡¯t easy.

    She¡¯s feeling anxious and disturbed.

    She checked her social media, and the South City Police Department had posted an announcement.

    South City Police Department

    #Situation Report#

    Concerning the online reports of "Joy Lyle¡¯s overpriced contract suspected financial crimes" and rted issues, after police investigation, Joy Lyle (female, 21 years old) is suspected of financial crimes and has been legally detained and summoned by the South City Police Department. The case investigation continues.

 Chapter 47 - 46: Assistant

    <h4>Chapter 47: Chapter 46: Assistant</h4>

    As soon as the South City Police Department announced the news, theizens went into a frenzy.

    User7654: "See, I told you she wasn¡¯t any good. Now she¡¯s been caught! That woman was really pretending!"

    Beacon Fire Tower: "Serves her right, the malicious and filthy woman from the entertainment industry. I suggest a total ban! My dear Eleanor suffered so many attacks, and now the truth is out."

    All Joy and Goodness: "So Joy Lyle was really that kind of person. I regret supporting her, it makes me sick."

    The one called All Joy and Goodness, Elliana Lyle had seen this person¡¯sments before.

    Now it¡¯s like everyone¡¯s piling on.

    At this moment, she thought of Luna and quickly opened WeChat.

    Moon Detective: "I¡¯m busy, what¡¯s up?"

    Kitty: "I want to investigate the online issue of Joy Lyle¡¯s overpriced contracts."

    Moon Detective: "Sure, 20k, no bargaining."

    Elliana agreed, and Moon continued:

    Moon Detective: "I can¡¯t handle it alone, meet me at Times Square at 6 PM."

    It was just noon now, still early, seems she¡¯d have to wait.

    Ding Ding!

    It was QQ notification Elliana hadn¡¯t heard in a while.

    It was Rupert Zeller.

    Rupert Zeller: "Sis, my aunt just bought me a phone. I went to the hospital and had an abortion, and now my aunt wants me to rest."

    This result didfort Elliana, but she also thought of something worrisome.

    Though Rupert is living at her uncle¡¯s house now, the girl is essentially living under someone else¡¯s roof, which might not be easy going forward.

    Elliana: "Please take good care and rest, it¡¯s important right now. You should be able to continue schooling this year, don¡¯t y too much with your phone during school."

    Rupert Zeller: "Yeah, my uncle is transferring me to another school because he¡¯s scared my previous ssmates will make fun of me."

    Hearing this, Elliana decided to sponsor Rupert¡¯s education, so she asked Rupert about her new school¡¯s name and ss.

    After their chat ended, Elliana found the contact information of Rupert¡¯s new homeroom teacher, Jane Foster, on the education website and had Lana discuss sponsoring Rupert¡¯s tuition and living expenses.

    On the other end, Jane Foster said: "Alright alright, may I ask for your name so I can inform the student¡¯s parents?"

    What¡¯s inconvenient about doing a good deed? Elliana nodded directly, and Lana reported Elliana¡¯s full name.

    She had just transferred the money, and within half an hour, she received a message from Rupert.

    She didn¡¯t expect Teacher Foster to contact so quickly; Rupert¡¯s uncle already knew and came to thank her.

    Very warmly, Elliana also hoped Rupert¡¯s uncle would continue to treat her well.

    ...

    PM

    Times Square.

    A graceful music coffee shop, a favorite ce for girls.

    But most whoe here are couples.

    Elliana sat by the window waiting for Luna, the half-sunken sun cast warmth upon her fair, smooth face.

    The white dress flowed like water, her delicate hands were captivating even as she held a ss of water.

    She had already been waiting here for nearly half an hour, Luna still hadn¡¯t shown up, but she was recognized and signed several autographs.

    Some even asked about Joy Lyle¡¯s situation...

    "Sorry! I¡¯mte!" Luna looked stylish today, in Han elements with a Lolita style, and still sucking on a lollipop.

    The whole demeanor radiated cuteness; no other word seemed fitting.

    Seeing Luna sit down, Elliana slowly spoke: "You¡¯re here."

    Luna paused, then curiously said: "What on earth is wrong with your voice? Sounds like a duck, caught a cold?"

    ... Elliana neither denied nor admitted, she went straight to the point: "Let me tell you the situation. The official Rnd and Art Elegance agreements are indeed 3 million, but this mysterious overpriced contract rmed the police. Someone anonymously reported, and now Joy Lyle has been detained."

    "That¡¯s tricky. We need to find the actual overpriced contract¡¯s original. How about this? Youe with me to find the specific contract!" Luna said easily, looking quite rxed.

    Elliana asked: "How do we find it?"

    "Of course, go to Rnd¡¯spany, am I supposed to conjure it up for you?" Luna¡¯s words were yful today.

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City Rnd Agency Limited Branch.

    The two arrived at Rnd branch entrance. ess was restricted.

    Luna nced around, said: "Forget it, such buildings don¡¯t have anything substantial."

    Hence Luna changed her n, deciding to go to Art Elegance culture mediapany.

    Elliana tried not to speak if possible, she followed whatever Luna said.

    Half an hourter.

    They arrived below Art Elegance Culture Media headquarters.

    Several guards stood watch at the entrance, it seemed like work hadn¡¯t ended yet.

    After observing the area thoroughly, Luna said: "Okay, apany me for some barbecue, we¡¯lle backter."

    ...

    Elliana thought Luna seemed like a thief scouting the spot, but she was eager to find the evidence.

    They went to the barbecue ce Luna named, sitting face to face, Luna considerately ordered her a dish of iced sugar stewed pear.

    Luna ate heartily, tempting her a bit, but she dared not swallow food.

    "Luna, what have you been busy withtely?" Elliana held the spoon, crushing the pear flesh.

    Chewing a mouthful of meat, Luna replied: "It¡¯s an extramarital affair, let me tell you, if I confirm it, a major figure in North City might be in big trouble!"

    "What do you mean by that?" Elliana suddenly grew curious.

    "Most extramarital affairs involve bigamy crime. Think about it, he¡¯s wealthy and influential, but his wife isn¡¯t a pushover either." Luna stopped at this.

    Elliana somewhat envied Luna¡¯s life, how to say it, quite thrilling!

    Half jokingly and half seriously said: "Luna, take me along for case investigations, okay?"

    "Take you? You want to join us?" Luna looked at her with a somewhat suspicious gaze.

    Elliana followed up: "Can I?"

    "Well..." Luna hesitated for a moment, then seemed to have some spark in her eyes, like a weasel.

    "Alright! Be my assistant from now on, I won¡¯t have to handle trivial stuff, I¡¯ll give you a 9.8% discount on your matters from now on."

    It sounded like a supermarket promotion, but could save some money; Elliana dly epted.

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City Melody Harmony Group Branch.

    Knock, knock knock.

    "President, it¡¯s Raymond Wood."

    "Come in."

    Hearing the response inside, Raymond Wood entered, "President, Lana called saying Miss Lyle went out and hasn¡¯t returned to the hotel."

    "Where did she go?" Norman Bet asked sternly, feeling helpless. Why did his little girl always love running around?

    He didn¡¯t stop his little girl¡¯s lively free spirit, but sometimes wished he could tether her beside him.

    Raymond quickly replied: "Near the Art Elegance Culture Mediapany¡¯s barbecue restaurant, with that girl fromst time."

    "Keep an eye, don¡¯t let anything happen."

    Norman Bet¡¯s tone was unreadable, Raymond also breathed a sigh of relief, handed over several blue folders, "President, please review these documents, also, I¡¯ve arranged tomorrow¡¯s meeting schedule for you."

    "Okay, leave them."

 Chapter 48 - 47: Little Liar

    <h4>Chapter 48: Chapter 47: Little Liar</h4>

    11:00 PM.

    asionally, a few barks could be heard from the street, and the barbecue shop was about to close.

    Elliana Lyle paid the bill and followed Luna out.

    Their shadows were stretched long under the streetmps; it had been a while since Elliana was out thiste.

    Lana called her once, but she just brushed it off.

    "Turn off your phone," Luna instructed.

    "Why?"

    Luna replied frankly, "It¡¯s in the way."

    Just as she turned off her phone, Luna suddenly grabbed her arm. Elliana was startled for a moment and was about to ask what was happening when Luna pulled her along the corner!

    "Luna!... Luna, what are you doing?" Elliana¡¯s wrist was tightly gripped by Luna, unable to break free, she had no choice but to follow and run!

    Cool wind whistled past her ears, Luna did not answer her question, instead leading her to turn here and there.

    At this moment, she only felt like a mouse!

    Finally, the two entered a narrow alley!

    Once inside the alley, there was no more path; at the end stood a gaudy hotel, exuding a vulgar charm.

    At the entrance stood a coquettishndy, wearing a well-tailoredrge peony cheongsam, her curly ck hair draped over her shoulders, beautiful yet somewhat indescribable.

    She looked at the two young girls arriving, fanned herself twice, and lightly opened her red lips, "What are you two doing here?"

    "Is there a back door? We¡¯re here to spend," Luna said, ncing back as if worried about something.

    "Heh~" Thendy sneered, giving the two a meaningful look before saying, "Yes! Pleasee inside."

    Luna pulled Elliana along, and soon someone came to wee them.

    "Where¡¯s the back door?" Luna wasted no time, directly asking.

    "Right over there, don¡¯t worry... huh? Why running?" Before the woman finished speaking, Luna was already pulling Elliana towards the back door!

    After exiting the door and running for a while, Luna slowed down.

    "I can¡¯t! I¡¯m exhausted, dying!" Elliana plopped down onto the ground, struggling to catch her breath, almost rolling her eyes and fainting.

    "Someone was following us. I¡¯m not sure if they were after you or me," Luna exined.

    Elliana clutched her chest, paused momentarily, and looked up at Luna, "It must be after you! Or are they... the paparazzi?"

    "Alright, let¡¯s go." Luna walked up to her, looking down from above, "Get up quickly, it¡¯s not early, let¡¯s finish what we need to do quickly so I can sleep early."

    "Oh, give me a hand!"

    "Get up yourself."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨D North City Melody Harmony Branch.

    "Boss! We still haven¡¯t found Miss Lyle..."

    Norman Bet stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, receiving a call from his subordinate.

    Ten minutes ago, Elliana¡¯s phone was already off.

    He overlooked this city, his eyes forming into ice.

    He thought, from now on, the little girl wouldn¡¯t leave him anymore.

    Little liar...

    "Keep looking!" Norman Bet left these simple three words, but they were a firmmand.

    He turned back to his chair, his slender fingers pinched a cigarette, about to light it, then put it down.

    The little girl doesn¡¯t like the smell of smoke...

    ¨D¨D¨D Midnight, 12 o¡¯clock.

    Late at night, not even the cicadas were chirping.

    Elliana followed Luna back to the back door of the Art Elegance Media Company.

    "Luna, this iron gate is locked, are we really going to go in from here?"

    Elliana looked around nervously, afraid someone woulde, then heard the sound of a lock being picked.

    Turning back, she was a bit surprised, "You can do this?"

    "Yeah, I used to unlock locks," Luna said jokingly, finding Elliana a bit... silly.

    Once inside, Elliana followed Luna, who led her straight to the surveince room, using the same method to unlock it.

    Inside the surveince room, she saw Luna plugging a USB-like device into theirputer.

    She stood guard at the door nervously, not knowing how much time had passed; Luna came out, "Alright, let¡¯s go."

    Luna said, then wiped the door frame she had just touched, and remarked, "Don¡¯t touch around, I brought gloves."

    "Oh! Okay."

    Luna seemed very familiar with this ce, and quickly led her to the archive room.

    Elliana was curious and couldn¡¯t help but ask.

    "You seem very familiar with this ce?"

    "You think I was really just here to eat barbecue? Fool!"

    ...

    "You hold this, I¡¯ll look!" Luna handed her a small shlight for illumination.

    It¡¯s very dark all around, except where the shlight shines.

    Luna rummaged through a pile of files, there were simply too many!

    These documents were as numerous as cow¡¯s hair, even the recent files numbered in the thousands, seeing them required effort.

    After nearly half an hour, Luna finally found Joy Lyle¡¯s transfer contract.

    "Quick, open it and take a look!" Elliana leaned her head closer.

    After some unraveling and opening, there seemed to be no issues, it was indeed 3 million.

    "Looks like someone really made rumors!" Elliana said, suddenly relieved, surely Joy would be fine soon.

    Then Luna pulled out other documents, casually flipping through them for a while, "Predatory uses."

    "Luna, let¡¯s go, the contract seems fine," Elliana said.

    "No," Luna shook her head at this moment, "Do you think the police would summon and detain just because of rumors? Heh, thispany is interesting, not doing its proper business."

    "What do you mean?" Elliana furrowed her brows.

    Luna did not respond, just took some pictures of several contracts, then returned them to their ce, "Follow me, what you are looking for isn¡¯t here."

    After locking the archive room door, Luna paused for a moment, then said, "Someone¡¯sing, let¡¯s go!"

    Saying this, she led Elliana toward the emergency exit.

    The timing was almost perfect; as they reached the stairwell, the elevator door opened, and a tall security guard stepped out, made a round on this floor, and then continued to ride the elevator up.

    "Go!"

    "Where are we going?"

    "Someone¡¯s in the elevator, we have to take the stairs. If you¡¯re scared of tiring out you can wait here for me," Luna said.

    Of course, Elliana was unwilling to stay alone, without saying anything, she followed Luna¡¯s pace.

    Nine floors of stairs were no joke; climbing up, Elliana only felt her legs trembling.

    "Shh! I¡¯ll go take a look first, you wait here," Luna left this sentence, and without caring about her opinion, directly exited the emergency door.

    After about a minute, Luna returned, but to Elliana, that minute felt extremely tormenting!

    This floor was Art Elegance¡¯s CEO office.

    The door was easy to open, the room was decorated old-fashioned, indicating Art Elegance¡¯s owner was quite old.

    Luna found a safe with abination lock in the corner, square and firm.

    "Looks like this is it, go watch the door, I¡¯ll open it."

    Luna put her ear to the safe, starting to try unlocking it.

    As time ticked away, the ticking of the clock became increasingly noticeable.

    Click¡«

    In the silence came a slight sound; Elliana was drawn to it too, seeing Luna indeed opened the safe!

    "Come take a look, this is the exorbitant contract." Luna waved at Elliana, signaling her toe over.

    When Elliana saw clearly, she was so surprised she opened her mouth wide, "Why is it like this? Two contracts?"

    "It¡¯s a Yin-Yang contract, nothing strange about it," Luna said, taking more pictures.

    Elliana furrowed her brows and pondered; there really was an exorbitant contract, and this contract was signed by Rnd and Art Elegance, with Rnd¡¯s seal on it.

    Shane Southwell¡¯s leverage was indeed not ordinary.

    "I¡¯ve sent the photos to you," Luna said after finishing taking the pictures.

    Elliana responded, atst saying, "Oh! Good."

    Leaving the CEO office, taking advantage of the emptiness, Luna still took her by the elevator; climbing stairs was truly exhausting.

    Ding¡«

    The elevator opened on the sixth floor! Blue uniformed security guards appeared before them!

 Chapter 49 - 48: I Love You

    <h4>Chapter 49: Chapter 48: I Love You</h4>

    ----- North City, Zhongxing North Street.

    This is the street near Art Elegance Media Company, where a tall and upright man walks, his expression serious.

    As he walks down the street, he wishes he could shake the whole ce upside down.

    It¡¯s already one in the morning, and the girl¡¯s phone is still off. All the surveince around that could be checked has been checked, yet there¡¯s no sign of Elliana Lyle.

    At this moment, his phone rings.

    "Boss, neither the airport nor the south and north stations show any trace of Miss Lyle."

    "Keep looking!"

    This isn¡¯t the first time Elliana has suddenly disappeared. He always remembers the time she was trapped outside the hospital¡¯s high floors.

    He never intended to let her go; he was just afraid she would get hurt.

    When Elliana said she liked him, he believed it, but how could someone suddenly change their mind? He was just deluding himself.

    Seeing Norman Bet¡¯s face grow darker, Raymond Wood cautiouslyforted him, "President, surely Miss Lyle will be alright."

    Norman Bet didn¡¯t speak, his face cold enough to freeze the moisture in the air.

    ----- Meanwhile, at Art Elegance Media.

    The security guard, initially lethargic from staying upte, perked up immediately upon seeing the pair!

    "Who are you two?! What are you doing here in the middle of the night?" He remarked, looking at the two delicate girls without being too harsh.

    Elliana was stunned, expression nk, stood there motionless, unsure of what to say.

    While Luna hid behind her, lowering her head slightly with only her big eyes showing, she said, "We¡¯re newly signed broadcasters, stayed up all night broadcasting until this afternoon, dozed off and fell asleep when we ended."

    As she spoke, Luna shyly buried her head in Elliana¡¯s back.

    The security guard, who had been around for three years and seen all kinds of broadcasters, found nothing unusual about Luna¡¯s behaviors. He simply thought Luna was one of those socially anxious people.

    "Well, you two should leave first." The guard had no suspicion and stepped back from the elevator.

    After all, could two pretty youngdies really be bad people?

    It wasn¡¯t until the elevator door closed again that Elliana whispered, "That scared me to death... Luna..."

    "Spineless ¡ú_¡ú" Luna nced at Elliana ungraciously.

    Elliana muttered, "We¡¯re not exactly here out in the open and clear..."

    After exiting the elevator, the two strode openly through the front door, since they didn¡¯t have ess, the security guard at the front even helped them with it.

    Came sneaking, left openly.

    "Alright, you head back by yourself, I need to head back too; we don¡¯t live in the same direction." Luna walked ahead, waving her hand back facing her.

    Only then did Elliana turn her phone on, and after unlocking it, a slew of messages and missed calls left her stunned.

    missed calls...

    Almost all were from Norman Bet, and a few from Lana.

    "That¡¯s it, I¡¯m done!" Elliana patted her forehead; how would she exin to Norman Bet?

    Edit several texts, then deleted them all, standing in the empty street dazedly staring at her phone.

    Forget it! Just call directly.

    "Hello, Norman Bet... Have you finished your work?"

    No sound came from the other end of the line, only footsteps.

    "Norman Bet, can you hear me? Hello?" Elliana tried again.

    Still no response, but she sensed someone by her side, suddenly turned her head, it was Norman Bet!

    Behind the powerful man were several bodyguard-like figures, looking rather striking in formation.

    "Norman Bet!" Elliana¡¯s face lit up, running towards him, crashing directly into his arms.

    She wrapped her arms around his waist, looking up at him with a silly grin.

    Elliana silently recited: Don¡¯t hit a smiling face! Don¡¯t hit a smiling face!

    Time ticked away, the man remained silent, coldly looking down at the little girl¡¯s face.

    "Norman Bet~ I love you~"

    ...

    "Are you cold?"

    These words were Norman Bet¡¯s first since his silence, finally softening his heart towards her cunning smile; he couldn¡¯t bring himself to be angry.

    "Cold, hold me." Elliana opened her arms, signaling him to embrace her.

    The man didn¡¯t give in, merely taking off his coat and draping it over her shoulders.

    Elliana pursed her lips, took the initiative to hold his hand, and said, "Norman Bet, let¡¯s go back."

    "Okay."

    ...

    Not a word was spoken along the way, even at the hotel Norman Bet didn¡¯t speak to her, Elliana knew he was angry.

    Lana standing by didn¡¯t dare speak either, just quietly poured a ss of warm water for Elliana.

    "Lana, it¡¯ste, go to sleep." Elliana said.

    "Okay, good night Miss Lyle." Lana bowed slightly, relieved, returning to the caretaker¡¯s room.

    At this point, Norman Bet had already entered the master bedroom, Elliana sipped some water and hesitated in the living room, finally deciding to enter the master bedroom to sleep.

    She knew Norman Bet was angry, yet she had no idea how to soothe this man.

    Norman Bet at the time was showering; the sound of rushing water came from the bathroom.

    She thought for a moment, left the master bedroom and went to therge bathroom, after her shower, Norman Bet had alreadyin on the bed.

    Standing at the doorway, hesitant to enter, she was wrapped only in a towel; she had forgotten to take a nightgown, which now resided in the master bedroom.

    Gradually feeling the chill, she cautiously pushed the door open and stepped inside.

    The man first nced at her, then his elegant eyes unexpectedly startled into almond-shaped!

    "Norman Bet..." Elliana approached him somewhat awkwardly; her nightgowny folded beside the bed.

    Gently crawling onto the bed, reaching out to take the clothes.

    "Norman Bet! What are you doing?"

    Suddenly held in Norman Bet¡¯s embrace, Elliana panicked, she still...

    No...

    His warm lips pressing against hers, they were incredibly close, incredibly close...

    ...

    A restless night.

    The next morning, Elliana still didn¡¯t see Norman Bet; nothing happenedst night after all.

    Just...

    Dressed and out of the master bedroom, intentionally covering her neck, carefully approaching the cold man.

    The man remained indifferent, as ifst night¡¯s fervency wasn¡¯t from him!

    "Norman Bet, let me show you something." Elliana held the phone, transferring the picture Luna had sent her to him.

    "Where did you get this from?" Norman Bet frowned, slightly underestimating his little girl.

    Her boldness had grown!

    "I... don¡¯t mind these details, can you help me..."

    "Okay, I¡¯ll help you." Norman Bet strangely felt anger, yet couldn¡¯t bear to scold her, only agreeing.

    ...

    ----- Art Elegance Media.

    Art Elegance¡¯s president Frank Leaf red at the head of security, asking sternly, "What happenedst night? How did surveince cameras get hacked? What are you doing!"

    Frank Leaf¡¯s face, filled with rage, trembled along with hisrge beer belly, eyes growing harsh.

    The head of security kept his head down, unsure of what had happened, stammering, "Boss... we didn¡¯t notice anything unusualst night... we..."

    "A bunch of useless!" Frank Leaf was infuriated; if nothing had turned up missing during inspection, he might have smashed the ashtray into the security guard¡¯s head!

    "Was there anything unusual?" Frank Leaf continued to interrogate.

    "N-nothing..." The security head suddenly seemed to remember something, quickly added, "Two broadcasters left in the middle of the night."

    "Broadcasters? What type?"

    "Said to be new contracts."

    Frank Leaf frowned, his gaze slowly shifting towards the safe.

 Chapter 50 - 49: Thankless Effort

    <h4>Chapter 50: Chapter 49: Thankless Effort</h4>

    "You can leave now!"

    Frank Leaf, who was initially angry, suddenly changed his expression, as if he no longer wanted to pursue the security guard¡¯s responsibility.

    "Yes, boss." The security guard left the office uneasily, not knowing what the boss meant and could only wait for the final criticism.

    "Xiao Wang, book me a ticket to the United States, as soon as possible." Frank Leaf said to the secretary, and then quickly packed a few things.

    Frank Leaf was already panicking, cold sweat beading on his forehead. It seemed like he couldn¡¯t stay here any longer, so he chose to abandon everything he could.

    After packing his things, he hurriedly left the office with Secretary Wang.

    When he reached the door on the first floor, Frank Leaf saw several police officersing in!

    The corpulent man was shocked! Oh no!

    Instinctively, he wanted to hide and leave through the back door, but was still noticed by those police officers!

    ¨D¨D¨DHorizon, South Wind Song crew.

    Elliana Lyle had just arrived at the crew and hadn¡¯t even had time to get out of the car when she received a message from Norman Bet.

    Norman Bet: "Arrest warrants have been issued for Jiang Feng and Adrian Young, just waiting for the verdict."

    Elliana felt a bit relieved, as things were moving in a good direction. The sky-high contract incident wouldn¡¯t let Rnd escape either.

    "Elliana, you¡¯re here. Are you feeling better?" A pleasant gentleman¡¯s voice sounded in Elliana¡¯s ear, as gentle and warm as the person himself.

    Yates Zander actually came to greet her, which surprised Elliana a bit. She smiled and said, "It¡¯s nothing, I¡¯m much better."

    Her voice was slightly hoarse, with a few patches of color on her fair neck, visible even with foundation.

    "Hmm, you do look much better." Yates Zander¡¯s face carried a gentle and elegant smile, but it froze for a moment upon seeing the uncovered colors on Elliana¡¯s neck.

    But it was only for that moment.

    The two walked into the crew side by side. Thomas Lee saw Ellianaing and his face was full of smiles.

    Yesterday, Norman¡¯s people dide to inquire, but didn¡¯t make things difficult for him, which he thought was Elliana¡¯s satisfaction with his approach.

    If Thomas Lee¡¯s thoughts were known to Elliana, she might wonder why Thomas Lee was afraid?

    For someone like her, facing Norman was nothing to be afraid of, just a bit of acting cute, nothing major.

    Timara Zephyr was drinking tea from her thermos not far away. When she saw Elliana, she acted as if she didn¡¯t see her.

    But Elliana¡¯s reason foring today wasn¡¯t just for fear of falling behind on progress; although she had no evidence, her intuition told her it was Timara Zephyr.

    Timara Zephyr continued to lower her eyes while drinking water until Elliana walked up to her. After pausing for a while, she naturally looked up and smiled, "Why are you here today? Are you feeling better?"

    "Yes, I¡¯m doing well," Elliana replied with a smile. She wanted to see how Timara would act next.

    "It¡¯s good that you¡¯re okay."

    Timara¡¯s shallow smile, even her eyes, were full of kindness.

    This attitude only made Elliana feel puzzled, it¡¯s so strange, really strange.

    Could it be a guilty conscience?

    ...

    At this moment.

    South City, Rnd Brokerage Co., Ltd.

    Vice President¡¯s Office.

    Shane Southwell was still sitting in a wheelchair, but he looked furious, veins bulging on his forehead, and his eyes seemed to be burning.

    Pieces of the flowerpot were scattered on the ground, making the entire office look a mess, even theputer screen was tipped over on the ground.

    Cari had a trickle on her forehead, dripping down her cheek as she stood in front of Shane Southwell, but her face no longer held respect, now reced with indifference.

    She was really just thankless; though she knew about the contract, she would never leak it.

    However, Shane Southwell indiscriminately believed it was her, just because she mentioned, "Miss Llyod also saw the contract."

    "Get out! Find someone to clean this mess!" It was Shane Southwell¡¯s first sentence after his angry roar, spoken very calmly.

    "Okay, Vice President." Cari gave a shallow bow and turned to leave.

    "Wait a minute!"

    The man stopped her, and as Cari turned back, Shane Southwell threatened, "Don¡¯t gossip to the president, or you know the consequences!"

    This sentence made Cari feel disheartened, but she still replied, "Okay, Vice President."

    She walked out of the office in seven-centimeter heels, and when thepany people saw her in such a sorry state, they instinctively avoided her.

    No one would show her any concern.

    Reaching the restroom, Cari texted people to clean Shane Southwell¡¯s office, then faced the mirror, getting lost in thought.

    The injury on her forehead was from being hit by a mouse, and this was the first time Shane Southwell lost his temper at her because of Eleanor Llyod.

    Pa!

    She pped herself hard, the burning sensation on her face sobering her up a lot. What was she doing this for? For Shane Southwell¡¯s pitiful bit of affection?

    No, she was here for the money.

    Cari let out a long breath. To her, liking Shane Southwell was not as worthwhile as liking his money.

    Having realized this fact, she turned on the faucet, cleaned her wound, dried the water drops, and applied lipstick. She smiled at the mirror.

    Both enchanting and radiant.

    ...

    p.m.

    This was when the crew was about to wrap up, more precisely, it was Elliana¡¯s wrap-up time.

    Norman had given Thomas Lee an order that by 6 p.m., Elliana must wrap up.

    Today went exceptionally smoothly, Timara Zephyr didn¡¯t act up, even showing concern for her instead of antagonizing her.

    As Elliana was about to leave, Timara Zephyr called out to her.

    "Elliana, may I call you that?" Timara Zephyr asked with a smile.

    Elliana: "..."

    She really wanted to ask Timara: Did you take the wrong medicine?

    But with so many people around, she could only nod, "Whatever, call me whatever you like."

    "Elliana, I used to think of you as a neer who came in through the back door, which was why I was aggressive toward you. Now that I¡¯ve seen your abilities, I apologize." Timara Zephyr said, lowering her head, appearing ready for Elliana to retaliate.

    Standing beside them, Liu Mianmian was just shy of jumping up and yelling: Look at that weasel, it¡¯s pretending to be generous!

    "You weren¡¯t wrong, I dide through the back door." Ellianaughed, her tone toward Timara was aggressive, not giving any pleasant words in return.

    Eleanor Llyod had also treated her this way before.

    And Timara Zephyr¡¯s poor acting skills made it hard for anyone to resonate with it.

    Hearing Elliana¡¯s words, Timara Zephyr¡¯s face showed slight embarrassment but she awkwardly pinched her lips to hold back, "Elliana, you could forgive me, right?"

    "Forgive you? Does that mean you did something wrong to me?" Elliana answered with a question.

    Timara Zephyr was momentarily speechless, as Elliana¡¯s whole demeanor today was prickly, leaving her at a loss for what to do.

    "If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯m leaving."

    Elliana said, directly walking past Timara, Liu Mianmian quickly followed, "Elliana, I¡¯ll see you off."

    ...

    "Elliana, don¡¯t pay attention to her, she¡¯s not really trying to apologize to you," Liu Mianmian said, following behind Elliana, muttering, afraid Elliana might believe Timara¡¯s words.

    That made Elliana find it amusing, "How do you know?" she asked with a smile.

    "Just one look and you know she¡¯s a weasel, my grandmother taught me to read faces," Liu Mianmian exined seriously.

    That made Elliana find Liu Mianmian both amusing and adorable, so she stopped, slightly looking up at Liu Mianmian, and asked earnestly, "Then what do you see in mine?"

    "Hmm..." Liu Mianmian bit her lip and really looked carefully, saying after a while, "Your face is smooth, eyes are almond-shaped and peach blossom-like. It¡¯s a face of past-life sadness, this-life fortune. Elliana, you¡¯re destined for good fortune in this life."

    When Elliana heard this sentence, she was stunned, past-life sadness, this-life fortune.

    It seems like she¡¯s hearing the truth.

    "Mianmian, I¡¯m starting to believe in metaphysics!"

    Liu Mianmian scratched her head, she had just learned it from the book her grandmother read, but she herself didn¡¯t know if it was true or not.

 Chapter 51 - 50: Norman Bennett, Are You Impotent?

    <h4>Chapter 51: Chapter 50: Norman Bet, Are You Impotent?</h4>

    Saying goodbye to Cotton, Elliana Lyle was now on her way back to the hotel.

    She leaned back in the car seat, tiredly rubbing her temples. She had sleptte the night before and had been worn out by Norman Bet, so today she relied on medicated oil to refresh herself.

    She felt like her brain was boiling, with a kind of indescribable headache.

    "Miss Lyle, if you¡¯re feeling tired, why not take a day off tomorrow?" Victor King suggested with concern.

    "No need, Ms. Wang." To be honest, Elliana rarely initiated small talk with Victor King, preferring not to distract her from her diligent work.

    Just then, her phone rang. It was Zane Bet calling.

    Strange, why would he call her at this time?

    "Hello, big brain!"

    Zane Bet¡¯s ingratiating voice came from the other end, "Sis, lend me 600,000 yuan, please."

    "...What! Didn¡¯t Norman Bet already give you 4 million? Have you spent it all?" Elliana was shocked at how quickly he came to ask her for money.

    "Sis, the game I¡¯m creating is high-end, so the expenses are naturally a bit fast," Zane Bet exined confidently.

    Elliana, with a headache, repliedzily, "I don¡¯t have it now, so wait for it."

    "Don¡¯t have it? What do you mean? Are you lying to me, you little brat?"

    ...

    Bearing it, Elliana replied word by word, "If you dare to call me that again, do you believe I¡¯ll cut off your financial source? Show some respect."

    "Sis! Then I¡¯ll wait for you to send me the money." Zane Bet was always adaptable.

    ¨D¨D¨D Vicars Hotel.

    Norman Bet hadn¡¯t returned yet, and Lana had thoughtfully stewed rock sugar pear soup for Elliana.

    While drinking the pear soup, she pondered over the bank card Norman Bet had given her and finally decided to use it to send money to Zane Bet.

    ...

    At 10 PM, Norman Bet returned.

    She ran over and hugged him voluntarily. It was still the lotus scent she liked, but stronger than usual. However, Elliana keenly detected a hint of tobo!

    "Norman Bet, did you smoke?" Elliana looked up at him, and even her smile disappeared.

    "I¡¯ll go take a shower; the smell will be gone soon." He gently patted her head, indicating to soothe her.

    Elliana didn¡¯t let go, instead hugging him tighter. She said, "Norman Bet, smoking is bad for your health. Can you give it up in the future?"

    Her voice was soft, with a touch of grievance and sadness. She knew he wasn¡¯t a smoker but only started because she escaped from the hospital once.

    "Okay, I won¡¯t smoke anymore." A glint of a smile appeared in his eyes. He actually hadn¡¯t smoked today but had just been at a gathering where he got the smell on him.

    Seeing him agree, Elliana beamed with joy, "Then I¡¯ll run the bath for you."

    "No need! Let¡¯s go together." With that, he picked her up in one swift move, giving her no time to react.

    Elliana was stunned for a moment, then immediately began struggling, but was afraid of falling, so she had no choice but to hold onto his neck.

    With her strength, she couldn¡¯t possibly escape! So, she started protesting, "No! I don¡¯t want to! Norman Bet, let go of me! Put me down..."

    The more fiercely the little girl protested, the faster he walked, heading straight for the master bedroom.

    Lana, who was cooking the second batch of pear soup, pretended not to hear or see anything, but couldn¡¯t help smiling.

    At this rate, Grandma Bet might soon have a great-grandchild.

    An hourter...

    Elliana rushed out of the bathroom in a panic, wrapped in a towel, grabbed her clothes, and ran to the guest room, finally locking the door.

    Oh, great!

    Norman Bet had finished every drop of the soup! She had seen everything, both things she should and shouldn¡¯t have seen!

    Only then did Elliana start to feel a little afraid. Even though she knew it was inevitable, having never experienced it before, apart from a tiny bit of anticipation, she was mostly scared.

    Knock, knock knock.

    "Miss Lyle, the pear soup is ready, it¡¯s cooled down, you can have it now." Lana called from the door.

    Elliana didn¡¯t feel like going out at all, and only after stewing for a long time did she finally open the door.

    Norman Bet was sitting on the sofa in a pure white pajama set, looking aloof and proud, his slightly damp hair draping down, making him look different than usual, but still handsome.

    This man! Seriously!

    Always acts like nothing happened!

    Feeling irritated, Elliana picked up the bowl and sat next to him.

    If he¡¯s not shy, why should I be? Elliana thought to herself.

    "Did you send the money to Zane Bet?" Norman Bet asked.

    Elliana paused and then quickly nodded, "Yes, I¡¯ll pay you back once I earn some money."

    "No need, I won¡¯t give you the payment from your acting jobs. Just use that card from now on, use as much as you like."

    This statement should have been a happy one, but Elliana wasn¡¯t happy at all!

    Wouldn¡¯t that mean he knows everything she does!

    "What? Does it have to be this way? But... then I won¡¯t have any privacy!" Elliana pouted, even her longshes seemed to protest.

    "Do you have any secrets I don¡¯t know about? Hmm?" That final "hmm" was incredibly suggestive, as if hinting at something.

    Sensing the implication in his words, her face flushed, and she muttered angrily, "Norman Bet, you¡¯re a rogue!"

    With that, she downed the pear soup in one gulp and stormed back to the master bedroom, not even leaving the door open for him.

    She figured wisely. Investing in Zane Bet was the right choice! This way, she could just say she¡¯s investing in Zane Bet whenever she used money!

    Pikachu ?¡«

    Her phone rang in the living room, forcing Elliana to step out from the master bedroom, where Norman was holding her phone.

    "Norman Bet, give me my phone!"

    However, he mischievously held it higher, forcing the frustrated little girl to climb onto the sofa and kneel on hisp, reaching for her phone.

    Just as the call was about to hang up, Norman handed it to her.

    It was Joy Lyle calling. Without thinking, she quickly answered it.

    "Hey, sis, how are you?"

    Joy said, "I¡¯m fine, I just got out of the police station."

    "Ah! Norman Bet, what are you doing? I¡¯m on the phone!"

    Just then, Norman unexpectedly wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close, causing the surprised Elliana to exim.

    "...Oh, my brother-inw is there too. You guys carry on, I won¡¯t disturb you."

    Elliana could hear strangeughter on the other end, though faint, she still heard it.

    Then there was a beep from the phone, and Joy had hung up.

    "It¡¯ste, time to sleep!" he took the phone from her and carried her back to the master bedroom.

    Elliana struggled hard, "No, Norman Bet, I won¡¯t sleep with you tonight!"

    Did struggling help? The answer was no!

    Just as she was about to obediently give in, Norman held her gently and whispered in a hoarse voice, "Be good, sleep."

    Elliana was stunned, and in a sudden bout of impulsiveness, asked a silly question, "Norman Bet... are you unable to do it?"

    Why does he always stop just in time?

    Of course, she didn¡¯t dare say thest part out loud.

    "What did you say?" His eyes narrowed slightly, and Elliana sensed danger!

    He pinned her down and said every word clearly, "Why don¡¯t you try and find out?"

 Chapter 52 - 51: Escaping a Calamity

    <h4>Chapter 52: Chapter 51: Escaping a Cmity</h4>

    "Stop! I¡¯m just joking!"

    At this moment, Elliana Lyle¡¯s panic was like being chased by a dog, unable to climb the tree!

    Seeing his hand moving around, Elliana had a quick idea and grabbed her stomach, "Norman Bet, I... I have a stomach pain, it really hurts a lot..."

    She had stomach issues since childhood, Norman Bet knew about it!

    Sure enough, the man stopped, scrutinizing the person in his arms for a moment before deciding to test if it was true.

    "It hurts..." Elliana¡¯s delicate face grimaced.

    Only then did Norman Bet sit up quickly, holding the little girl in his arms,forting her while calling, "ire,e over here."

    At this time, Elliana¡¯s stomach really started to hurt! More and more like a cramp! Unlike a stomach pain, it felt like...

    She subconsciously looked at the bedsheet!

    Sure enough!

    "Norman Bet... let me down, I need to take a shower..."

    "Don¡¯t make a fuss, darling, the doctor will be here soon." With that said, Norman Bet gently rubbed her stomach.

    Elliana couldn¡¯t afford to worry about much else, she counted in her mind three two one, and slipped out of the man¡¯s arms like a loach, rushing straight to the bathroom.

    Watching the little girl¡¯s flustered back and the pajamas he was wearing, Norman Bet understood. He didn¡¯t mind at all, ringing for Lana and then getting up to walk toward the bathroom.

    "Norman Bet, what are you doing! Don¡¯te in."

    ...

    When the two came out of the bathroom, Lana had already tidied up everything in the room, putting up new bedsheets.

    "Master, Young... Madam." Lana greeted them with a respectful smile.

    The term "Young Madam" made Elliana blush a little; she suspected that Lana had misunderstood.

    However, Norman Bet seemed very satisfied with Lana¡¯s way of addressing Elliana, "Continue addressing her like that in the future."

    "Yes." Lana replied.

    Elliana had no choice but to seek help, somewhat awkwardly walking up to Lana, softly asking, "Lana, do you have any sanitary..."

    "Yes, Young Madam, please wait a moment."

    A few more minutester, ire White arrived, still looking as approachable as ever, without the slightest displeasure for being called over in the middle of the night by Norman Bet, his gentle smile making people feel warm.

    After an examination, ire White slowly said, "Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s nothing serious, drinking hot water will help, only take medicine if the pain bes unbearable."

    Then ire White seriously told Norman Bet, "You should hold off for a few days, otherwise it might harm Miss Lyle."

    "..." Elliana¡¯s face turned red immediately, she wished she couldn¡¯t understand what he implied!

    "Hmm." Norman Bet¡¯s response was natural, his demeanor exceptionally calm.

    After sending off ire White, Norman Bet watched her drink a cup of warm water before carrying her back to the room to sleep.

    That night was peaceful, Elliana could feel a pair ofrge hands cradling her abdomen the whole time, a warm sensation, easing much of the pain.

    The next day.

    When she woke up, Norman Bet was already up, leaving her alone in the room.

    After dressing for a while, she walked out of the master bedroom, instinctively looking at the sofa, there was no man drinking coffee.

    Lana told her that Norman Bet had already left, for some reason, she was instantly enraged, deciding she had to get up earlier than Norman Bet next time!

    Meanwhile, at South City Rnd Brokerage Company.

    In the deputy general manager¡¯s office.

    Two men sat facing each other, the atmosphere a bit tense.

    A skinny middle-aged man anxiously sped his hands together, the white shirt draping over his frame made him look even thinner, his slightly bulging eyes staring at the lower left corner of the floor.

    "Have you thought it through? Five million, enough for your family to spend a lifetime."

    "Deputy... Deputy General Manager! But that¡¯s a prison sentence!"

    The frightened skinny man named Qian Gui was the finance director at Rnd, now facing Shane Southwell¡¯s coercion and temptation!

    Shane Southwell sat half leaning on a wheelchair, appearing a bitzy, yet with calm yet fierce eyes, shooting straight onto Qian Gui¡¯s forehead.

    "At most five years, a million a year, after you¡¯re out, you won¡¯tck for anything, your family will be happy instead." Shane Southwell¡¯s voice was cold, nearly losing patience.

    Qian Gui still shook his head, declining, "Deputy General Manager... my son is about to take the civil service exam, I can¡¯t let my son have a blemish!"

    "Ha!" Shane Southwell chuckled coldly,pletely out of patience, frankly saying, "Do you think I¡¯m here to negotiate a deal? Your son is at Central Harmony University, right? I¡¯ve already sent someone to find him."

    Qian Gui immediately broke into a cold sweat, he only had that one son! Anxiously standing up, "Deputy General Manager, I agree, I agree, just don¡¯t harm my son!"

    "A man who knows the times is a wise man!" Shane Southwell smiled satisfied, then added, "I¡¯ll transfer the money to your wife¡¯s ount, rest assured."

    The conversation was over, and Qian Gui left, feeling lost. Then, Cari came in.

    "Deputy General Manager, I have helped Miss Lu applied for the survival show on the ind, but the president found out and said he disagrees."

    "Old bastard!"

    Cari took a deep breath, continuing, "Also, the president asked you toe over."

    ...

    At noon.

    Although the sun wasn¡¯t too fierce in the autumn, it was still enough to give a headache.

    On a break at the filming set, Elliana Lyle was holding a thick winter coat with one hand and a small fan with the other, acting in a winter scene on such a hot day was unbearable.

    "Elliana, let me take that for you, have a bottle of water first." Timara Zephyr handed her a bottle of iced mineral water, taking the thick winter coat from her hands.

    The bottle cap was pre-opened, yet Elliana didn¡¯t seem inclined to drink it.

    Seeing her unease, Timara Zephyr took the mineral water, tilted her head and poured a mouthful into her mouth, and then smilingly handed it back to Elliana, "It¡¯s iced."

    "Thank you." Elliana really couldn¡¯t understand what Timara Zephyr was trying to do, did she want to reconcile?

    "Elliana, the spicy duck head incident... was my doing."

    Did she just admit it herself? Elliana was stunned, staring suspiciously at her, trying to figure out what else she had to say.

    "Elliana, I¡¯m sorry, I hope you can forgive the harm I caused you in the past."

    After a long time, Elliana sighed helplessly, responding, "Hmm."

    Timara Zephyr then smiled unusually happily, while Elliana still kept her guard up, but seeing Timara¡¯s sincere smile, she thought: Well, if it¡¯s possible to get along, then let¡¯s get along.

    Elliana didn¡¯t be warm because Timara apologized, remaining as distant as possible, with no need to be too close.

    Just consider it working as colleagues, without any friendship involved, Timara¡¯s attentiveness won¡¯t increase her goodwill, quite the contrary, it made her ufortable.

    At 6 p.m., after wrapping up, Elliana sat in the car, scrolling through Weibo as usual.

    South City Police Department

    #Situation Report#

    In response to online allegations of "Joy Lyle¡¯s exorbitant contract suspected of financial wrongdoing," thetest notice, after verification, there was a 150 million contract transfer fee between Art Elegance Culture Media Company and Rnd Brokerage Company, Art Elegance Culture Media is now suspected of financial crime and temporarily sealed, its president Frank Leaf has been administratively detained ording to thew.

    Rnd Brokerage Company, after police verification, finance director Qian is suspected of assisting Art Elegance Culture Media in moneyundering and has been administratively detained ording to thew, further verification found Rnd illegally avoided taxes by 800 million, please make up the amount within 15 days,stly, after police investigation and handling, Joy Lyle is not involved in the case.

 Chapter 53 - 52: Blue Whale

    <h4>Chapter 53: Chapter 52: Blue Whale</h4>

    Elliana Lyle looked at the Weibo messages and breathed a sigh of relief. Joy Lyle was proven innocent, but she hadn¡¯t expected Rnd to get away so easily.

    At this moment, Victor King said, "Ms. Lyle, the crew will give you a day off tomorrow. You can take a rest for a day."

    Back at the hotel, Lana mentioned that Norman Bet hadn¡¯t been back all day. Sure enough, Elliana soon received a message from Norman!

    Norman Bet: "Girl, I have something to do tonight. I¡¯ll be backte. Go to bed early."

    CatCat: "Oh!"

    Elliana replied somewhat unwillingly and perfunctorily.

    That night...

    Elliana sat at the bedside waiting for the man to return. However, she only managed to stay awake until one in the morning...

    The next morning.

    Elliana woke up at seven, no sign of the man beside her, but the warmth left behind confirmed he had been there.

    She quickly put on her shoes and ran out to check, only to find Lana making wontons, and Norman Bet was gone again! Truly like a dragon whose head you see but body is invisible!

    Just then, she received a call from Luna.

    "There¡¯s no news on George Lyle¡¯s matter yet, but I¡¯m out of money," Luna seemed to have just woken up, her voice soft and sleepy.

    Elliana: "How much?"

    Luna: "Three hundred thousand."

    Hearing this number, Elliana nearly spit out a mouthful of blood. That¡¯s a damn money-burning job!

    She couldn¡¯t help but ask, "What have you been doingtely? Why is it so expensive?!"

    "I¡¯m currently investigating a wealthy businessman¡¯s scandal, I just bought some equipment and ran out of money. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t dy your matter on purpose," Luna promised.

    A scandal? Elliana was immediately interested and hurriedly asked, "How¡¯s the investigation going? It¡¯s the one you mentionedst time, right?"

    Luna: "Yes, I¡¯m tailing the businessman. I might have some gains tonight."

    Remembering Luna had promised to be her assistant, and with Norman Bet not home today, she felt bored.

    "I want to go too."

    "No way." Luna outright refused, clearly unwilling.

    Elliana threatened, "If you don¡¯t let me go, I won¡¯t give you the money!"

    There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Luna reluctantly said, "Fine,e over. The location is Blue Whale Grand Hotel, Room 811. Bring some lollipops, spicy duck necks, duck heads, chicken feet, and maybe a bottle of soda too."

    "What? You think I¡¯m your gofer?"

    Luna coldly replied, "Hmph! Up to you. But if you don¡¯te, don¡¯t regret itter."

    Beep!

    Elliana hung up the phone, went back to the master bedroom to change, and intended to leave immediately, but seeing the wontons Lana finished, she stopped and decided to eat first.

    After finishing, she said to Lana, "Lana, I¡¯m heading out for a bit. Don¡¯t tell Norman Bet!"

    "Mistress..." Lana said, pointing to the surveince camera above the door.

    "Damn!"

    Elliana covered her forehead, speechless. Whatever, let it be known.

    "Lana, I¡¯m off now."

    "Okay, Mistress,e back early."

    ...

    An hourter.

    Blue Whale Grand Hotel.

    Elliana walked in carrying bags, only to be stopped at the door!

    "Sorry, miss, our hotel requires a reservation. Do you have one?" A woman in a suit with white gloves asked, her eyes filled with disdain.

    "...No, but I have a friend upstairs."

    "Then have your friende down to get you." The woman in the suit showed no intention of letting her in, judging from Elliana¡¯s casual appearance that she couldn¡¯t afford the hotel.

    Just as Elliana was thinking of asking Luna toe down, she bumped into Yates Zander.

    "Elliana? What are you doing here?" Yates was quite pleased to see her, his smile warm and growing brighter.

    "I came to meet a friend. I bought some stuff but couldn¡¯t get in without a reservation."

    Hearing this, Yates turned cold and said to the suited woman, "This is my friend."

    "My apologies, Mr. Zander. I didn¡¯t know she was with you." The woman in the suit bowed apologetically, appearing frightened.

    "Alright, go in. I¡¯ll help with the bags."

    Elliana epted the help as she couldn¡¯t carry everything, and thought the bodyguards behind Yates would do it, but Yates helped her himself.

    When they reached Room 818, Elliana knocked, and Luna quickly answered, frowning upon seeing the men behind her: "Why¡¯d you bring so many people?"

    "No, he just helped me with the bags," Elliana exined.

    Luna nodded in understanding, casually taking the bags from Yates, teasing, "Of course you¡¯de out with a name-worthy bodyguard, Missy."

    "No! He just helped with the bags..."

    "No worries," Yates interrupted Elliana, adding, "Elliana, I¡¯ll head off now. Call me if you need anything."

    As Elliana was about to say goodbye, Luna grabbed her arm and pulled her in: "Get in here already!"

    Bam! The door closed behind them.

    Inside, Lunay on the bed, lifted a corner of the nket, and patted the spot beside her, "Come up!"

    The two snuggled on the bed, pulling over the bed table andying out all the snacks, as Luna began to speak, "I¡¯ve been tailing the businessman these days. I haven¡¯t captured any evidence, but today I found a gap and installed a bug in the room upstairs."

    "Bugs? Why not just install a camera?"

    Luna rolled her eyes, "You think cameras won¡¯t get spotted? Anything big enough for good positioning will be discovered."

    "Oh oh! Go on."

    "Learn something, will you? The businessman rarely stays out overnight, but this morning his men reserved a presidential suite here. I found the room and snuck in to nt the bug. Now, we wait."

    ...Two hourster.

    "Luna, I¡¯m sleepy," said Elliana.

    The bed table was a mess, littered with bones, and Elliana, feeling tired, hadn¡¯t slept well the previous night.

    "Sleep, I¡¯ll wake you when the timees."

    ...

    At 9 PM, Elliana was sitting and eating takeout, while Luna ordered her some non-spicy old duck soup.

    Just then, the sound from the phone alerted them that someone had entered the room!

    Soon, they heard sounds of pleasure, making Elliana blush deeply!

    Realizing what it was, Elliana wanted to turn it off, but Luna stopped her.

    "What¡¯s the big deal? Just eat and listen," Luna said.

    Finally, twenty minutester, they awkwardly finished eavesdropping, yet Luna remained unphased.

    After the passionate session, they finally heard normal conversation.

    A sweet, coquettish voice rang from the phone, "Daddy, you were amazing today."

    Elliana felt the voice was highly familiar but couldn¡¯t ce it and continued to listen.

    Then, they heard a middle-aged man chuckle, "You little vixen! How¡¯s the thing I asked you to do?"

    "Oh~ Daddy, you¡¯re so heartless. I just took care of you, and now you¡¯re thinking of other women, hmph~."

 Chapter 54 - 53: Childish Tricks

    <h4>Chapter 54: Chapter 53: Childish Tricks</h4>

    I heard the manughing heartily: "I¡¯ve already lined up the next film for you, sugar daddy is always thinking about you. Take care of the things I hand over to you, and you¡¯ll be the leadingdy in the next film."

    "Thank you, sugar daddy, but...that Elliana Lyle doesn¡¯t seem to be buying it."

    Elliana overheard her name and immediately realized¡ªwasn¡¯t that Timara Zephyr?

    She looked at Luna sitting next to her, who raised an eyebrow at her, a faint smile ying on her lips.

    Luna must have known all along, Elliana suddenly understood, no wonder Luna demanded a hefty 300,000 today.

    "Luna..." Elliana was about to ask when Luna made a hush gesture, raised her chin slightly, signaling for her to keep listening.

    ¨D¨D¨DPenthouses suite upstairs.

    A strong middle-aged man held a delicate woman in his arms. The man, named Simon King, looked like he was over forty, his body muscr and evenly built. Though not conventionally handsome, his uncle-like face was more appealing than most.

    Simon King¡¯s expression changed slightly, his eyes filled with anger: "Thomas Lee, this fool! I¡¯ve given him so many benefits, yet he can¡¯t get anything done. He actually let that neernd in Norman Bet¡¯s bed! How many times have I hinted at him?"

    Simon King had no idea what Elliana¡¯s identity was, and naturally, given Timara and Elliana¡¯s rtionship, she wouldn¡¯t disclose it either.

    "Oh~ calm down, sugar daddy. The director might find it hard to exin things to Mr. Bet." Timara soothed him with a seductive smile.

    Simon said arrogantly: "Humph! That Norman Bet just relies on his family¡¯s power and influence. If he lost the Bet Family¡¯s backing, would I really fear him?"

    This made Timara roll her eyes secretly. Even without the Bet Family, the Melody Harmony Group alone was more formidable than this nouveau riche tycoon.

    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t dare say these things out loud. She couldn¡¯t anger the man; she still needed his help to climb up thedder.

    So she said, "Sugar daddy~ I heard Mr. Bet really likes that neer. If you truly want her, I might have a way."

    "What way?"

    Probed by Simon King, Timara deliberately kept him in suspense, not revealing the rest.

    "You little minx, go ahead, what do you want?" Simon King naturally understood what she meant.

    Timara wasn¡¯t particrly pretty, but her bedroom skills were well-rehearsed, something Simon King quite enjoyed.

    "Sugar daddy, I want a ticket to the Night Talk Red Carpet next time." Timara¡¯s request wasn¡¯t excessive, as she indeed had the ability to attend, but the spots were limited and could be taken by others with connections.

    "Alright, it¡¯s a deal! Now tell me." Simon King readily agreed, eager to hear her out.

    Timara gently rested her jade-like arm on his shoulder and said: "Director Li is anxious because the previous incident caused dys. So he¡¯s nning to release an episode next week to maintain the hype and respond to the doubts surrounding Elliana. There will be a celebratory banquet then, which I¡¯ve heard will be at the second floor of the Vicars Hotel. You just need to wait in a room upstairs, and I¡¯ll have someone send that girl to your bed once you get me some of that same drug asst time."

    Simon King paused, asking: "Drug? What drug."

    "Well, the kind you used on me~" Timara appeared even more bashful; she ended up in Simon¡¯s bed because she was drugged!

    "Heh heh! I get it; I¡¯ll deliver it tomorrow."

    ...

    The phone receiver was filled with wickedughter.

    Elliana was shocked and furious. Timara Zephyr actually nned to harm her! She intended to send her to that old man¡¯s bed!

    "I¡¯m so angry; I¡¯m going to call the police!" Elliana eximed.

    "Wait up!" Luna quickly stopped her, whispering a strategy into her ear.

    The more Elliana listened, the more sense it made, calming her down considerably, and she ultimately nodded in agreement.

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    Elliana had just arrived at the hotel entrance when she ran into Norman Bet!

    The man gazed at her; it was already 11 p.m., where had this girl beening back from?

    He asked sternly, "Where have you been?"

    "I went out for some fun..." Elliana replied nonchntly, and ran over to take his hand, giggling, "Norman Bet, let¡¯s go back home. Love you."

    The man, helpless, could only hold her little hand in return and lead her back home.

    Lana, seeing Elliana and Norman Bet return together, breathed a sigh of relief. She had reminded Elliana toe back early.

    As long as it wasn¡¯t the young master¡¯s return before the young mistress¡¯s, there was no big issue.

    Norman Bet went to the bathroom for a shower, leaving the idle Elliana to curl up on the sofa to watch some TV; she hadn¡¯t watched TV in a long time. She wasn¡¯t interested in dramas but rather cartoons.

    After showering, the man approached her, reminding, "Girl, it¡¯s time for bed."

    "Ah? Let me finish this episode!" Seeing that the man seemed unwilling, she coquettishly pleaded, "Please, Norman Bet~"

    The man said nothing, simply going to her side and holding her in his arms, implying that he¡¯d watch with her.

    Though Elliana initially felt nothing, when Norman Bet rested his chin on her shoulder, her face turned red instantly as the ticklish breath made her involuntarily recall Timara¡¯s...

    The deeper she thought, the redder her face became.

    Seeing her face so flushed, Norman Bet asked, "What¡¯s wrong? Are you ill?"

    "I...I¡¯m just embarrassed~ You...you smell good." Elliana didn¡¯t know what nonsense she was babbling.

    "Oh? Do I?"

    The man couldn¡¯t help but give her a quick peck on the face.

    But the little girl in his arms seemed to have reacted somehow, as her entire neck flushed red.

    Elliana snuck a nce at the man; only then did she realize that his eyes were filled with wild desire, looking like he wanted to devour her.

    "Norman Bet, there¡¯s a UFO behind you!"

    "Childish trick!"

    ...

    The next day.

    Early morning.

    As soon as she arrived at the set, Timara was once again feigning friendliness, tending to her clothes and asking if she was tired.

    Elliana saw clearly in her heart that this woman was no good! But remembering Luna¡¯s n, she swallowed her anger and pretended to y along.

    After work, when she got back to the hotel and entered the master bedroom, something felt off. Rushing back to the living room, she saw a woman in a chic, warm-toned, fitted dress sitting on the sofa. That unparalleled elegance could only belong to Joy Lyle.

    When Joy looked at her, her eyes curved with a teasing smile: "Just now realized my presence?"

    "Sis! Why are you here!" Elliana eximed in sheer joy, rushing over to hug her.

    "Oh my~" Joy almost lost her bnce as Elliana threw herself at her.

    Lana brought in some fruit, smiling, "The young mistress didn¡¯t notice you earlier, Miss Joy."

    "Indeed, I was wondering when this little girl would spot me." Joy gently patted Elliana¡¯s back.

    As they separated, Elliana remarked, "I thought I saw something earlier."

    "Elliana, you seem to have grown quite a bit." Joy said to the girl in front of her.

    Hearing this, Elliana beamed, touching her head, "Really! It seems like I can still grow taller."

    They sat down together for some heartfelt conversation, and Elliana learned that after Art Elegance was closed down, Joy was practically a jobless wanderer. Although two variety shows had approached her, Joy turned them down.

    Joy said she intended to take the opportunity to unwind.

    However, Elliana felt even more guilty; if it weren¡¯t for dealing with Eleanor Llyod, Joy wouldn¡¯t have missed her opportunity with South Wind Song.

    By the evening, Joy stayed in another guest room at the hotel. Despite Elliana¡¯s efforts to have her stay, Joy onlyughed, iming she didn¡¯t want to disturb the couple.

    At midnight,

    When Norman Bet finally returned, Elliana quickly rushed over to ask: "Norman Bet, Norman Bet! Can you sign my sister to yourpany?"

 Chapter 55 - 54: The Banquet

    <h4>Chapter 55: Chapter 54: The Banquet</h4>

    "You can sign your cousin directly into your studio; it¡¯s better than signing directly with thepany."

    After saying this, Norman Bet patted the little girl¡¯s head and continued, "For such small matters, you can decide on your own."

    "Hehe, Norman Bet, you¡¯re really nice." Elliana Lyle thought for a while and decided to ask Joy Lyle if she was willing first.

    So, she quickly sent a message to Joy Lyle and soon received a reply.

    Sister: "Of course, we can look out for each other. Oh, I was just about to tell you, I¡¯m going to visit our eldest sister tomorrow."

    Kitty: "Hmm, Sister Phoebe¡¯s house has many cats! I¡¯ve visited before."

    ...

    Time flew by, a weekter.

    That day, after Elliana finished filming, it was already noon.

    Thomas Lee called everyone to stop and was unusually cheerful. He announced, "Everyone¡¯s worked hard. Our premiere starts tomorrow, so today we¡¯ll wrap up early. I¡¯m treating, and the venue is provided by Mr. Shen, on the second floor of Vicars Hotel. It¡¯s all ours, except for post-production staff who have to work a bit harder. Everyone who cane, please do!"

    The actors and staff present all apuded enthusiastically. Timara Zephyr stood among them, sneakily ncing at Elliana, her eyes scanning up and down, with a smile that carried an ambiguous meaning.

    "Elliana, I remember you¡¯re staying at Vicars Hotel. How about giving me a ride?" Yates Zander approached her, speaking half-jokingly.

    Elliana did not refuse: "Sure."

    To Elliana, Yates was a very nice person¡ªgentle, polite, and gentlemanly. Most importantly, they were both artists under Norman Bet¡¯spany.

    So Elliana didn¡¯t think Yates¡¯s attention towards her was driven by any personal motive.

    "Alright, Elliana, wait a moment while I make a call," Yates said.

    Elliana nodded slightly: "Sure, no problem, I¡¯ll wait."

    ...

    Since Victor King was also in the car, Yates Zander didn¡¯t chit-chat much with Elliana.

    Conversely, Victor King felt a bit strange. She suspiciously stared at Yates in the front seat. Even though he was in the samepany as Elliana, didn¡¯t Yates have his own car and driver? Why insist on catching a ride with them?

    Upon returning to the hotel, Elliana dropped Yates off on the second floor, and they parted ways.

    She hurried back to her room and couldn¡¯t even talk much with Lana before quickly calling Luna to check on her preparations.

    Ring... Ring... Ring...

    "Hello, the number you dialed is temporarily unavable. Please try againter..."

    She called three times, but there was no answer. Elliana sighed, not knowing what Luna was up to, and had no choice but to start changing into her pre-arranged gown.

    Lana: "Madam, do you need me to curl your hair a bit? I think slightly wavy hair would look really nice on you."

    "Sure." Elliana had never curled her hair before, but hearing Lana suggest it, she wanted to give it a try.

    ...

    Vicars Hotel, second floor, the hall.

    There weren¡¯t many people at the moment, with more than an hour until the party started. In a corner, there were two women in dresses.

    "Later, put this in a drink and serve it. Once it¡¯s done, you definitely won¡¯t be a minor character in my next lead role film."

    "Don¡¯t worry, Sister Yun!"

    ...

    When the party started, Thomas Lee stood at the top and addressed everyone who hade: "Everyone, we¡¯re very pleased to gather here today. Before the party starts, I want to thank everyone for their hard work on South Wind Song..."

    The director spoke as Elliana kept calling Luna, but still couldn¡¯t reach her.

    Amid a loud apuse, the party officially began.

    With Luna not answering the phone, Elliana felt a bit anxious and decided it was best to keep her distance from Timara Zephyr.

    Ever since eavesdropping on Timara Zephyr with the businessman, Elliana had been extremely wary.

    No matter what Timara Zephyr offered her today, she would not eat or touch it!

    Gradually, investors and reporters approached her, the lead actress, to toast, even though today wasn¡¯t the premiere. Most reporters had caught wind of the news and came to get acquainted.

    Elliana wore an elegant long ck dress, with naturally draped, half-concealing wavy long hair. Whether in appearance or demeanor, she stood out at the party.

    This gave the reporters plenty to talk about, with everyone praising her appearance, since the premiere hadn¡¯t aired, and they couldn¡¯tment on her acting.

    Elliana smiled awkwardly yet politely, responding to each person, although she drank little each time; she still ended up drinking quite a bit due to the sheer number of people, leaving her slightly tipsy, with her cheeks slightly flushed.

    Then, other crew members came to toast her, and Elliana, fearing she might do something wrong if she drank too much, only took a small sip each time as a gesture.

    Midway through the event, Timara Zephyr, wearing a backless white trailing gown and holding a ss of red wine in both elegant hands, was walking towards her.

    Elliana¡¯s heart skipped a beat, determined not to touch any of the sses in Timara Zephyr¡¯s hands.

    Logically, it would take Timara Zephyr some time to walk over, but as the lead actress, she couldn¡¯t leave; she could only watch as Timara Zephyr approached.

    She saw Timara Zephyr chatting andughing with other crew members as she made her way over, slightly tipsy, with a flushed oval-shaped face.

    Timara Zephyr smiled and said, "Elliana, we¡¯ve been filming together for so long,e, let me toast you."

    Everyone around smiled, watching the two of them, as Elliana smiled and nodded, bracing herself to say, "Sister Yun, you¡¯re too kind."

    Elliana raised her ss only to realize it was already empty.

    Suddenly, an unknown hand appeared out of nowhere and took her empty ss, and Timara naturally extended a ss of wine to her.

    Timara looked at her with a full smile, gesturing for her to take the ss. Elliana¡¯s hand paused in the air, feeling as if the ss in Timara¡¯s hand was an abyss.

    But as the lead actress of South Wind Song, Elliana attracted too much attention. If she didn¡¯t take it, Timara would surely have something to say, so she awkwardly epted the ss from Timara.

    Seeing Elliana ept it, Timara¡¯s smile grew wider, "Elliana, may our South Wind Song be a big hit. I toast to you with this ss."

    Elliana maintained her smile and said, "Sister Yun, you¡¯ve worked hard too," secretly thinking: "As if I¡¯d believe you!"

    As their sses clinked, Elliana pretended to slip, losing her bnce, and the ss in her hand dropped to the floor.

    The red liquid soaked into the light-yellow carpet, quickly leaving a dark red stain.

    "Elliana, are you alright?" Concerned people gathered around, wanting to show their care.

    Supported by Timara, Elliana shook her head and smiled at them before turning to Timara and saying, "Sorry."

    "It¡¯s fine." Timara said, helping her up.

    Once Elliana regained her footing, someone unexpectedly handed her another ss of wine. Turning to see who, it was May Lewis, who yed the role of Cailin.

    She looked seventeen or eighteen, pure and youthful, this girl seldom spoke in the crew, ying a small maid role.

    Elliana took the ss and kindly said, "Thank you."

    "Elliana, you¡¯re too polite," May Lewis shyly bowed her head.

    After thanking May Lewis, Elliana raised her ss and addressed the surrounding staff and actors: "Everyone has worked hard, let¡¯s have a toast. May our work keep getting better and better,"

    With that, Elliana slightly tilted her head back and downed the wine in one go.

 Chapter 56 - 55: May Lewisâ€™s Gentleness

    <h4>Chapter 56: Chapter 55: May Lewis¡¯s Gentleness</h4>

    After socializing with everyone, Elliana Lyle felt she was already drunk, her head heavy and feet light, her whole face burning.

    Worse yet, she felt hot all over, a deep unease and agitation spreading through her heart, a bad premonition looming.

    But she soon dispelled it.

    Then she called Luna again, but still no answer. Having no choice, Elliana could only walk out of the party to the window outside, open it, and let a cool breeze wash over her, making her feel much clearer.

    Leaning against the window, she looked at her phone, unsure if she should call Luna once more.

    At that moment, an unfamiliar number appeared on the screen. She squinted to look at it and finally decided to answer.

    "It¡¯s me, Luna!"

    Hearing the familiar voice, Elliana was momentarily broken down. She asked eagerly, "Where have you been?"

    "Something urgent happened here. Where are you?" Luna said smoothly, her voice interspersed with panting, as if running yet not quite.

    Elliana ran her fingers through her hair and said, "I¡¯m at Vicars Hotel, on the second floor."

    "Wait there, don¡¯t drink anything. I¡¯ming to find you."

    "Hmm~" Ellianazily leaned against the window, watching the cars driving on the street outside, her eyes bing vacant and powerless.

    In a daze, she recalled thest time Norman Bet held her in his arms, pressing down on her, his cold eyes filled with wild desire,pletely different from his usual self.

    Thinking of this, Elliana chuckled to herself, feeling even more agitated and restless. Her delicate hands weakly tugged at the hair covering her corbone.

    Her blurry vision watching the buildings outside shrink, almost turning into mirages...

    Just then! Someone came from behind and tapped her on the shoulder, jolting her awake. She turned around, nearly losing her bnce.

    She felt someone steady her, a faint scent of blood drifting into her nostrils. After rubbing her eyes, Elliana finally saw the person in front of her¡ªit was Luna.

    Looking rather disheveled!

    Her hair was messy, her forehead had a dirty wound, half of her face was smeared with blood, her arms exposed from her short-sleeved shirt showed severe abrasions.

    Luna looked at Elliana with worried eyes, seeing Elliana smiling idiotically, her face flushed, eyes zed.

    "Did you drink?" Luna asked.

    "Embrace me~"

    Luna frowned, ignoring Elliana¡¯s nonsense, directly snatched her phone, and unlocked it with her hand.

    While Elliana was being difficult, she identally grabbed the wound on Luna¡¯s arm. Luna didn¡¯t cry out, just gritted her teeth and then pped Elliana¡¯s rear with her backhand.

    "Ouch~ It hurts~"

    Luna called Norman Bet and said, "Come quickly to pick up your wife, or she¡¯ll be snatched by someone."

    After saying this, she handed the phone to Elliana, who stupidly put it to her ear, hearing nothing but Norman Bet¡¯s voice.

    Elliana foolishly said, "Norman Bet,e quickly, I want to devour you."

    Norman Bet, hearing this, just took it as Elliana being too drunk at the party and said, "I¡¯ming right back."

    Beep!

    The phone was hung up, Elliana pouting with some grievance. Luna looked around warily, grasped Elliana¡¯s shoulder, and instructed, "Wait here for Norman Bet, don¡¯t go anywhere."

    Finished instructing, Luna opened the window to the maximum and directly flipped out in front of Elliana.

    "Eh?" Elliana dumbstruckly stuck her head out the window, but Luna had already vanished, while downstairs, fragrance wafted out from the window.

    At this moment, a few people emerged from the party hall, most were backstage crew, and after some left, only two remained.

    Those two looked around and ultimately focused on Elliana by the window.

    "Elliana, we¡¯ll help you upstairs to rest," the two said.

    "Hmm?" Elliana tried to maintain that tiny bit of rity in her mind, but her whole body felt limp, with almost no strength at all.

    She was half-pushed, half-pulled into the elevator by them, and just as the doors were about to close, Elliana grasped the door, which lightly pinched her hand before opening again.

    Blurgh~

    Seeing Elliana about to vomit, the two quickly let go to avoid her, their faces showing disdain.

    Elliana couldn¡¯t hold back any longer, stumbling out of the elevator, running to a nearby trash can.

    Her legs somewhat weak, she clung tightly to the trash can and, with a loud gag, vomited most of the red wine out of her stomach.

    Hearing the two chasing her from behind, Elliana touched her head, feeling a bit clearer with the alcohol being expelled, she mused she couldn¡¯t go upstairs...

    Understanding this, Elliana then realized those behind her didn¡¯t actually want to take her to rest. She wanted to run away, feeling like she was flying, her whole body burning like a zing phoenix.

    Flying, she pushed open a door, turned around and used herst bit of strength to close it.

    "Elliana? Elliana? Open the door!"

    Outside was the sound of knocking, Elliana slumped against the door, sliding down to sit on the floor, despite the knocking outside.

    "I didn¡¯t drink much..." Elliana felt anxious and panicked, quickly pulled out her phone, shakily pressed it to call Norman Bet.

    "Hello~ Norman Bet~ Help me... save me... wah..." Elliana said and immediately started crying.

    On the phone, Norman Bet¡¯s anxious consoling voice said, "Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯ming right away. Tell me, where are you now?"

    "I... I¡¯m... behind the door."

    "Which door are you behind?"

    ...

    On the expressway circling the city, a ck car was speeding, Norman Bet gripping the steering wheel with one hand, eyes full of worry, his palms sweaty.

    He quickly called the manager of Vicars Hotel: "Get everyone to find Elliana!"

    "Okay, Mr. Bet."

    ¨D¨D¨DAt Vicars Hotel, currently chaotic from top to bottom, whether there were people or not, doors were being opened and checked one by one.

    Manager Hu Xue was also leading people to check each floor, outside thepetent female manager was already cursing mentally.

    If anything happened to the youngdy at her hotel, she couldn¡¯t imagine the consequences.

    At this time, Elliana was still behind the safety exit door, the two outside had long left, no longer knocking.

    Elliana¡¯s face was flushed, feeling hot and restless all over, her shoes were already off, legs rubbing against each other, trying to keep herst bit of rity. She had to leave here fast.

    Supporting herself on the stair railing, she managed to stand up, suddenly hearing someoneing up from downstairs, footsteps getting closer.

    The twoing up were the ones who wanted to take her just earlier.

    Elliana recognized one, the one who handed her the drink, May Lewis!

    "No..." She struggled to climb up, but her legs were utterly powerless, like walking through water with abnormal resistance.

    "Elliana, we¡¯ll help you rest." May Lewis said once more, her eyes guilty but quickly concealed.

    Elliana wanted to call for help, but opening her mouth produced no sound, her throat dry and hoarse as if filled with sand.

    May Lewis and the other unidentified person exchanged nces, and forcefully pulled Elliana up, trying to take her upstairs.

    However, Elliana¡¯s constant resistance made it not so easy to get her upstairs.

    p!

    A pnded harshly on Elliana¡¯s face!

    May Lewis was shocked! "What are you doing! How can you hit her!"

    "Make her behave, it¡¯s not like she¡¯ll die from it."

    Pain, instead, caused a moment of rity for Elliana, knowing if she were taken, she¡¯d be doomed!

    "Elliana, don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯ll take you upstairs to rest, don¡¯t be scared~" May Lewis began tofort her, her voice soft and gentle like a stream.

    "Let go of me... let go~" Elliana continued to resist.

    "Stop talking, just take her upstairs," the other woman said and dragged Elliana up.

 Chapter 57 - 56: Reporter

    <h4>Chapter 57: Chapter 56: Reporter</h4>

    A petite server came out of the restroom, and upon a closer look, it was none other than Luna.

    Her forehead wound was simply treated, covered by her bangs. She adjusted her clothes, with a slight curl at her lips, and walked into the second-floor hall party carrying a tray.

    Ten minutester.

    The party was nearing its end, and a group of reporters gathered in the corner, whispering.

    Someone suddenly started a rumor, and the group, each with their gear, ascended to the third floor.

    They had just received a tip that an actress from South Wind Song was upstairs having an affair with a wealthy man.

    Excited by such gossip, they were quite interested.

    Upon arriving at the mentioned room 6112, all the reporters readied their equipment, exchanging looks, uncertain about the authenticity of the tip. No one dared act rashly in case it was a prank and found others inside; they would all faceints.

    The hard-won status could be lost.

    At this moment, a short figure appeared¡ªa server, hair falling over the face. She squeezed through the crowd and gently pulled the door handle. Room 6122¡¯s door swung open.

    Everyone was startled¡ªit wasn¡¯t locked!

    "The news is inside, seize the opportunity." The petite server said this and left directly.

    The group had already assumed it was a setup¡ªhow could there possibly be news in there?

    However, seeing a few reporters entering ahead, the rest followed with their cameras.

    Upon entering the room, the scene before them filled them with joy. Raising their cameras, they snapped away wildly. On the bed, a couple was entwined, and upon hearing themotion, a man let out a sharp scream.

    The passionate moment of the two had already been captured by the reporters.

    "Get out!" the man roared angrily, wrapping himself in the sheets. But the naked woman beside him, like a snake, continued clinging to him, ignoring the reporters.

    The woman raised her head, her face blushing down to her chest, her eyes filled with longing. She stared nkly at the reporters, only to realize and scream, burying herself under the covers.

    "Mr. Wang, does your wife know about your affair with a popr actress?"

    A bold reporter dared to ask.

    This question made the man¡¯s face flush red with rage, his veins bulging, and he roared angrily, "Get out, all of you!"

    At this point, a group of bodyguards rushed in at the door, menacingly trying to drive the reporters out. They had just gone to catch the girl who had been stealthily following and photographing them earlier, but failed to catch her!

    However, with more people, the reporters had no intention of leaving. A few bodyguards dared not cause a scene there, afraid to use force.

    "Ms. Timara Zephyr, did you know Mr. Wang is married?"

    "Ah!!! Stop asking! Get out! Get out! Ah!!!!" Timara Zephyr screamed, holding her head in despair!

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨D Ten Minutes Ago.

    Luna walked into the party with the drinks, while a slightly tipsy Timara was chatting with Holly,pletely unaware of Luna approaching her.

    "Ms. Zephyr, here¡¯s the drink Mr. Wang ordered for you. He asked me to tell you that you¡¯re very professional." Luna handed over the drink.

    Timara¡¯s expression was not good, especially with Luna mentioning Mr. Wang in front of so many people, making her uneasy even though Luna didn¡¯t say much.

    "Okay, thank you."

    ¨D¨D¨D Meanwhile, Norman Bet returned just in time and ran into the two people escorting Elliana Lyle!

    "Norman Bet~"

    May Lewis and herpanion were startled, loosening their grip.

    Taking advantage of their rxed hold, Elliana managed to break free with some effort, wobbling towards Norman Bet, though she barely took a couple of steps before her legs gave out!

    Norman Bet¡¯s pupils dted, and he rushed over in two steps, catching Elliana just before she hit the ground.

    "I¡¯ve got you." He held her soft body close, feeling Elliana¡¯s feverish heat, her eyes dazed yet sparkling with tears.

    Smelling the familiar lotus scent, Elliana felt she had found support, winding her arms clumsily around the man¡¯s neck, going straight in for a kiss.

    Norman allowed the little girl to kiss him, but his gaze over her shoulder turned furious, sharp as a knife towards the two people.

    May Lewis quickly exined, "Elliana had too much to drink, we... we were just going to take her to rest."

    Stammering, her words hardly convinced herself, knowing full well that Norman Bet was a terrifying man, causing her legs to shake!

    Without a signal from Norman, Raymond Wood knew what to do, and with a wave of his hand, the bodyguards surrounded those two immediately!

    Elliana was restless in Norman Bet¡¯s embrace, moving like a water snake.

    "Let¡¯s go, be good." Norman held her tightly, filled with fear at the close call, that his little girl almost got into trouble!

    ...

    Back in the room, Lana was still unaware, but seeing Norman Bet¡¯s expression, she knew something had happened!

    Norman carried her into the master bedroom, nning to call ire White, but Elliana knocked the phone away!

    She tangled like yarn, touching his face randomly, whispering into his ear...

    "Norman Bet, I feel awful..."

    "Be good, I¡¯ll call the doctor for you."

    However, as if she couldn¡¯t hear, the girl in his arms grew more restless.

    She pulled open his suit further, clutching the man¡¯s face, demanding a kiss. Caught off bnce, Norman was pushed onto the bed by Elliana.

    Like a climbing kitten, shey on him, "Norman Bet..."

    Without finishing, she kissed him.

    Norman was slightly angry and helpless, flipping over to pin Elliana down, holding her iling hands and lifting her up.

    "Don¡¯t move!"

    Muffled sobs...

    His low growl made the little girl cry.

    "It¡¯s okay, be good." Normanforted, carrying her horizontally into the bathroom, the cold water dousing the feverish heat, helping Elliana regain some rity.

    She looked at Norman¡¯s angry eyes and said, "Norman Bet, I feel awful."

    "Stand still!"

    He ran cold water into the bathtub and ced Elliana inside.

    "Lana,e in!" Norman called.

    Lana had been waiting at the door, rushed in when Norman summoned.

    Half an hourter.

    ire White prescribed medication for Elliana, then turned to Norman Bet with seriousness, "This kind of thing, it¡¯s best not to give it to Mrs. Elliana in the future. If you can¡¯t handle it, it¡¯ll only harm her."

    ...

    Hearing this, Norman Bet¡¯s face darkened profoundly, what does he mean he couldn¡¯t handle it?

    He was just afraid the little girl would think he was taking advantage of her.

    Elliana, having taken the medication by now,y nestled in Lana¡¯s arms asleep, her face tender, her breathing soft.

    ire White packed his medical kit and patted Norman on the shoulder, "Alright, I¡¯m off. You shoulde see me about your kidneys when you have time."

    Norman Bet: "..."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 58 - 57: Shock

    <h4>Chapter 58: Chapter 57: Shock</h4>

    When Elliana Lyle woke up, it was already the next morning. She felt groggy from sleep, with multiple areas of her body feeling sore and weak, especially her left cheek, which was faintly aching and seemed swollen.

    She twisted her body to sit up from the covers, grabbing her phone off the nightstand. The ring white light from the phone shone on her face, making her appear unusually pale in the dim environment with ckout curtains tightly drawn.

    Elliana¡¯s first reaction: It¡¯s 7 o¡¯clock, time to get up and head to the film crew.

    In her phone¡¯s message bar, there were several notifications from Weibo.

    Shock! Business Tycoon Simon King caught having an affair with a popr actress in a hotel...

    "Who is it?" A confused Elliana was immediately piqued with curiosity and realized who it was after clicking into the page!

    An indecent photo of a man and woman had been exposed, showing Simon King with eyes zing in anger and Timara Zephyr¡¯s eyes blurry, filled with lust. The carefully ced mosaic preserved thest shred of dignity for Timara.

    Thements below were dense; without insults, they consisted of appalling vulgarities,beling Timara as a slut.

    Elliana bit her lip, unable to suppress the urge to pat her chest in relief, thankful that it was Timara and not her.

    She recalled that she had also been drugged, and her clothes had already been changed, sending a chill through her heart!

    But slowly recollecting, it seemed... it was Norman Bet who had saved her, providing a measure offort in her heart.

    She turned on the light, got out of bed, and wearing slippers, stepped out of the master bedroom. Upon seeing here out, Lana hurriedly went to support her.

    "Ma¡¯am, are you feeling better?" Lana¡¯s action in supporting her was gentle, her eyes filled with concern.

    Elliana shook her muddled head, "It¡¯s nothing, Lana. How did I get back yesterday?"

    Seemingly noticing Elliana¡¯s doubts, Lana exined, "It was the young master who carried you back, Ma¡¯am, rest assured."

    "Oh~" That¡¯s good, that¡¯s good!

    Elliana sat on the sofa and casually asked, "Where¡¯s Norman Bet? Has he gone out again?"

    "Yes, it seems the young master has something important to handle and might be backter." Lana said.

    Sunlight shone in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, and Elliana felt like sitting on the tatami mat to bask in the sun.

    Looking down from the transparent ss window at the bustling street below, she saw arge crowd gathered downstairs.

    Strange, why are there so many people outside Vicars Hotel? Crowded, forming a circle with an empty space in the middle.

    They were all looking upward.

    The sky?

    Elliana instinctively looked up but saw nothing.

    "Lana, what happened downstairs?" Elliana asked while unlocking the window and giving it a push!

    Instantly!

    The noise rushed to her ears; she could hear the shouts from downstairs but couldn¡¯t discern what they were specifically shouting.

    Soon, she saw in the distance arge red truck, ring sirens as it approached ¡ª a fire truck, still rtively far away.

    Lana put down what she was holding, quickly ran over to take a look, and then ran to the door to call the front desk upstairs.

    "Hello, what happened downstairs?"

    After a few seconds, Lana hung up the phone. By this time, Elliana was already staring at her, looking eager to know what had happened.

    "Ma¡¯am, the front desk said that actress Timara Zephyr is about to jump off from the rooftop terrace!" Lana¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t good,forting the slightly stunned Elliana who had heard the news: "Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t be afraid."

    Timara is going to jump off the building!

    Of course, how did she not think of it, such a big scandal, Timara must feel like she can¡¯t live any longer!

    Thinking to quickly phone Luna, but still couldn¡¯t get through; she remembered Luna¡¯s phone hadn¡¯t been reachable all day yesterday, and Luna had called back via Inte phone¡ªit was impossible to call back.

    "Lana, I need to go up and look!" Elliana said and headed for the door.

    Lana knew she couldn¡¯t stop her, so she said, "Ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll go with you."

    The door opened, and Elliana was stunned to see several burly men in suits outside! With a bang, she mmed the door shut again!

    ...

    After a while, Elliana opened the door again, heading for the rooftop-essible safe passage, with Lana and six strong bodyguards following her.

    Vicars Hotel rooftop.

    A lot of staff were already standing at the furthest distance from Timara, trying to persuade her, provoking Timara into yelling at them. They dared not approach, fearing Timara might die there, which would be unlucky and bad for business.

    Since the scandal broke, everyone¡¯s attitude had changed; she was no longer a popr actress. She was now just an adulterous mistress scorned by everyone.

    At that moment, Timara was quietly sitting at the edge of the rooftop, the cold sunlight shining on her smooth skin. She was merely wrapped in a robe that didn¡¯t cover much; at this point, did it matter what she wore?

    It didn¡¯t matter anymore.

    She was waiting for someone, but she wasn¡¯t sure if she was waiting for someone to push her to jump or someone to save her life.

    "Timara!"

    This crisp yet somewhat harsh voice startled Timara. She slowly turned her head; it was that "clean" woman, Elliana.

    Clean to the point of being blinding, Timara¡¯s deathly pale face first showed jealousy, then anger, then emptiness. She was about to die; what else could she hate?

    She ultimately waited for someone who made her want to die.

    Her dangling feet heavilynded on the extra tform. Timara stood up, just a step away from death.

    "Timara! Wait! You can¡¯t!" Elliana was truly urgent, admitting she hated Timara¡¯s vicious n, admitting that seeing the news gave her a sense of relief, but she never thought Timara would seek death.

    Life is genuinely fragile, unbearable of setbacks.

    "Timara, listen to me..."

    "Say what? You¡¯ve seen my joke? Are you happy now?" Timara interrupted Elliana, turning her head to stare intently at the anxious girl.

    Elliana shook her head; she dared not approach but continued, "Listen to me,e down first, if there¡¯s a problem, let¡¯s solve the problem. Don¡¯t you dislike me? If you die, how can you continue disliking me?"

    Timara said nothing, still staring at her, yet a flicker of light passed through her empty gaze. It seemed like she didn¡¯t really want to die, but how... could it be possible?

    "Don¡¯te over!"

    Intending to sneak closer while Timara was distracted, Elliana immediately stopped.

    Timara brushed away the hair that fell on her face, revealing a sneer, "You know what? Initially, the one meant to sleep with Simon King was you! I drugged you, why didn¡¯t you go? If today¡¯s news was about you and you were the one jumping, I¡¯d definitelye to see you make a fool of yourself!"

    The tone was like mocking an idiot, making Elliana inexplicably angry, yet she dared not provoke Timara.

    She was acting out of humanitarian concern; at this moment, she saw Timara as a peer, as a life.

    And if Timara¡¯s n had seeded, it would be her walking the dead-end road.

    What would it mean if Timara just died like this now? She wanted her in jail, to repent properly, and never rise again.

    "Timara, do you know what it feels like to be dying?"

    Elliana asked with a gentle tone, but Timara was stunned. She didn¡¯t know what Elliana was trying to say.

    "Painful, dark, you can¡¯t see, you can¡¯t hear, you can sense life as a thin thread, but you can¡¯t grasp it. You¡¯ll remember all the beauty in life, then you¡¯ll be scared, you¡¯ll regret... But all these are transient. The most painful thing is when you want to regret, yet it¡¯s toote."

    As she spoke, Elliana¡¯s eyes reddened, deeply remembering Norman Bet holding her in that rainy night; she truly wished to stay, but it was all toote.

    "What do you mean? Are you pretending to be a good person?" Unconsciously, Timara already shed two lines of tears. She kept shaking her head, not believing Elliana; the woman trying to persuade her was probably just trying to set up a persona, to gain attention, yet she couldn¡¯t let her seed, could she?

    "Dying is the least worthwhile thing; trust me this once, just this once, okay?" Elliana slowly extended her hand, just stopping there.

    However, the hotel staff recording with their phones behind Elliana deeply stabbed at the heartfelt Timara.

 Chapter 59 - 58: Wind

    <h4>Chapter 59: Chapter 58: Wind</h4>

    "What do you understand? You understand nothing, a person like you who grew up with a silver spoon! What can you understand¨D¨D¨D!" Timara Zephyr shouted at her with heart-wrenching anger.

    Elliana Lyle stood against the wind, her hand still not withdrawn, though she was somewhat warmly angry: "Timara! Does your situation have anything to do with my silver spoon? Have you really seen yourself clearly?"

    "Do you really not want me to die? Hahaha..." After Timaraughed, she pointed to the people behind Elliana and cursed angrily: "Look at the pack of dogs behind you, they are apuding your kindness! So good at paving the way for you!"

    Hearing this, Elliana immediately reacted, with a gesture of her eyes, six tall and strong people snatched the recording phones and handed them all to her.

    Faced with Elliana, these people naturally dared to be angry but not speak up.

    Elliana took a slight step forward, sliding all the phones under the railing, making her intentions very clear.

    Timara looked at the phones on the ground and frowned slightly, "What do you mean?? Are you really trying to persuade me?" She was full of disbelief, even thinking it impossible.

    Elliana did not speak, she just extended her hand again, although still too far to grasp anything.

    "Jump already! What¡¯s the holdup?"

    From downstairs, someone shouted with a loudspeaker, Elliana¡¯s heart suddenly sank, she quickly said: "Don¡¯t listen to them, if you listen to them, won¡¯t you just be doing what they want? Where is your pride? How can you let them get their way?"

    "Pride, what pride? Elliana, look at the phone, see what¡¯s on it, see what they are saying about me, see what my studio said, read it to me." Timara¡¯s tone was very calm, as calm as dead water.

    "Timara..."

    "Read it to me!" Timara suddenly became furious, her state changed as if a fierce beast had burst out of the dead water.

    To avoid provoking her, Elliana had to pick up the phone, open Twitter, and start reading: "Thispany has already terminated the contract with Timara Zephyr..."

    "See, everyone pushed on the fallen wall!" When Timara heard the news from Elliana¡¯s mouth, she bent over and cried bitterly.

    "Why do you still care about this now? Think about your parents, they would be heartbroken over you, living without being an actress is not impossible." Elliana immediately put away the phone, deciding to stop reading, reading further would only agitate her more.

    Mentioning the words ¡¯parents¡¯, Timara became incredibly agitated, her parents! Just this morning, called her asking for thest sum of money.

    ...

    "Xiaoyun! You know your brother¡¯s illness, transfer all your remaining money." Her father Wane Zephyr sighed.

    Timara sat on the bed with vacant eyes; there was no more Simon King, no gossiping reporters asking questions, on the empty big bed there was only her.

    Listening to her father¡¯s voice through the phone, she began to sob softly as if a puppet injected with a soul, choking: "Dad, I¡¯m in trouble, I...I don¡¯t want to live anymore."

    Before her father could respond, her mother¡¯s voice rang out on the phone: "Hurry up and send the money! Always talking about dying, if you want to die, do it outside, send all the money you earned to me."

    The words like a bolt from the blue were so cold-hearted, her hand holding the phone trembled lightly, her slightly open mouth forced to remain silent.

    She hung up the phone, threw it aside, opened the door, and went to the hotel rooftop.

    Recalling her parents¡¯ words, Timaraughed until she cried, crying uncontrobly, perhaps she was never living for herself, her purpose of living was to earn money to prolong her brother¡¯s life with congenital heart disease.

    Her mother always said daughters are unreliable, the son must be saved.

    "Elliana, do you know? I envy you, I don¡¯t understand, I worked hard for so long, I could give up everything to not be the lead role, why did you easily rise to the top as soon as you came, you have money and power, but I... I have nothing, I walked step by step on my own, and when you came, all my efforts were in vain!"

    Hearing these words, Elliana sighed deeply, her eyes cold: "So you think, your situation, your imbnce, makes it right for you to help Simon King to harm me? Is this your effort?"

    This question went straight to the soul, Timara was momentarily deted, her eyes unfocused, bing dull and lifeless, she didn¡¯t know, she really didn¡¯t know...

    "That¡¯s all I have to say, youe up, you can delete their recorded videos, you don¡¯t want me to ride your wave of attention, do you?" Leaving this sentence, Elliana turned and left.

    By then, the firefighters had arrived, pulling out a big air cushion downstairs! An ample space was cleared around, and a yellow police line was stretched up!

    Her persuasion to Timara was not confident, she only wanted to dy time, she did not have the ability to rescue, staying here was pointless.

    Timara stood at the cold wind entrance, listening to the shouts of firefighters with loudspeakers downstairs, suddenly she realized everything she had was like the wind.

    The wind in her ears took her back to when she was 18, finally free from her home, entering university, that was the brightest moment in her life she felt.

    At that time, the senior¡¯s gaze was gentle, everything was full of hope.

    After finally graduating, with longing for the future life, everything was ruined that night.

    She entered an ordinary managementpany, got her first job, as an assistant to an 18th-tier little celebrity.

    She worked hard, only hoping the artist she served would be popr, then her sry would also increase more and more.

    But things didn¡¯tst long, on one asion, two talent scouts discovered her, and thus she got her first role, although a small role, she still felt the future was promising.

    She felt like she was turning over a new leaf, dreaming of having lots of money in the future, freedom, traveling the world with her loved one.

    Until she was noticed by a man named Simon King, her nightmare began.

    She was drugged, taken to that man¡¯s bed, recorded on video, and threatened.

    Facing Simon King¡¯s threat, she had topromise, she dared not call the police, dared not tell anyone.

    That night, she took a shower for a long time, her whole body wrinkled and white, swollen, she continued washing.

    So filthy, really filthy, that man¡¯sughter, so disgusting!

    The next day, she officially broke up with the senior, feeling she no longer deserved his gentleness.

    Simon King visited her from time to time, she wanted to escape, but couldn¡¯t, just when she wanted to end it all!

    Her parents again started asking her for money, and on the table, was the check Simon King left.

    She disdainfully wanted this dirty money.

    That night, she stared at the check for a long time, her brother needed treatment, initially, her parents didn¡¯t let her go to college, and her promise was: after I go to college, get a better job, earn more money to treat my brother¡¯s illness.

    Later, she became a different person, the former Timara Zephyr was never found again, she started bing ugly, knowing Simon King had money, she started enduring disgust to please him, unknowingly, also got used to it.

    Later, she only thought about clinging to people with more power and influence, attempting to attach to Shane Southwell, trying to cling to Norman Bet, countless times...

    From the moment she used the check, she waspletely trapped.

 Chapter 60 - 59: Exposed

    <h4>Chapter 60: Chapter 59: Exposed</h4>

    Elliana Lyle returned to the room and quickly wrapped herself in a small nket. She was nearly frozen to death up on the rooftop; despite the bright sun, the wind that blew was still cold.

    At this moment, in the abandoned warehouse of the Vicars Hotel.

    Two women in formal dresses were tightly bound and lying on the ground; they were May Lewis and Lisa Johnson, the ones who tried to take Elliana away.

    A bodyguard in a suit stared intently at them. Since they were tied upst night by Norman Bet¡¯s people, they hadn¡¯t seen Norman since.

    Unlike Lisa Johnson, May Lewis remained very quiet, not cursing but sobbing secretly.

    Lisa Johnson, on the other hand, only moved slightly on the ground, twisting her body with effort. She no longer had the energy she had at the beginning. After being tied up for so long, she was almost at her limit.

    Squeak¨D¨D¨D!

    The sound of the iron door opening was dull and piercing. Blinding light quickly flooded in as a strikingly handsome man walked in against the light, exuding a demeanor of a judge.

    He was followed by several bodyguards.

    Raymond Wood brought a clean chair, cing it four meters away from the two women, and Norman Bet sat down next to it, his gaze coldly fixed on the two writhing on the ground.

    Norman was too busyst night to deal with them. ording to Dongzi, these two had refused to speak the truth sincest night.

    Being tied up overnight, they seemed a lot more docile.

    "Mr. Bet, it wasn¡¯t me! It really wasn¡¯t! It was her! She was the one who made me do it. She even pped Miss Lyle! I never bullied Miss Lyle!" May Lewis finally had the chance to exin to Norman Bet as he arrived, desperately looking up at him, hoping he would let her go.

    Lisa Johnson, upon hearing this, instantly turned red with rage, "You little bitch, what do you mean I made you do it! Weren¡¯t you also trying to please Timara Zephyr? You were the one who gave Elliana the drink!"

    "You just said, who did she hit?" Norman Bet asked this in a calm, knife-sharp voice.

    Of course, he had seen the surveince.

    "She hit Miss Lyle! She did it right in the hallway, Mr. Bet! She called me over to support Miss Lyle. That¡¯s all I know!" May Lewis exined desperately, her eyes full of pleading and innocence.

    "Raymond, hit her."

    "You! What are you going to do! Don¡¯t you have any respect for thew... No! Don¡¯te any closer¨D¨D¨D!" Lisa Johnson¡¯s once fairly pretty face was filled with terror, her eyes trembling!

    The sound of ps fell continuously, mixed with ghostly screams!

    Terrified by the scene, May Lewis trembled, not daring to look more.

    "You speak." The man¡¯s voice was as cold as the King Hargreaves judging spirits. Any ordinary young girl would probably be reduced to tears by now.

    "It was Timara Zephyr who asked me to hand Miss Lyle the drink. She said I¡¯m new and should be sensible. I kept holding the drink Timara gave me, waiting for a chance to make Miss Lyle remember me. Later, when Miss Lyle epted the drink from me, I was quite happy." Talking about it, May Lewis burst into tears, "I... I didn¡¯t expect it to turn out this way..."

    But Norman Bet wasn¡¯t buying her story. It was strange; he could see through anyone¡¯s lies, yet Elliana could always deceive him.

    "Raymond, you know what to do." Norman stood up, not giving these two a shred of pity.

    May Lewis didn¡¯t understand Norman¡¯s intention; startled, she stared at the man heading towards the iron door, his back so indifferent that she couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill in her heart.

    "Enough!" Raymond called out and waved his hand, prompting the bodyguard Dongzi, who was still pping Lisa Johnson, to immediately stop.

    Dongzi took half a step back, standing beside Lisa Johnson, revealing her face swollen like a pig¡¯s head, red as burning coal.

    "..." Lisa Johnsony there motionless, dizzy from the beating, with only a buzzing sound in her ears; she felt as if her face no longer belonged to her.

    In her state, May Lewis was naturally terrified, her eyes welling up with tears, shaking and sobbing; not out of pity for Lisa Johnson, but purely out of fear. Norman Bet didn¡¯t believe her at all!

    "Dongzi, handle it properly." Raymond handed the task to Dongzi; he didn¡¯t have time to deal with these two.

    Dongzi was taken aback, then asked, "Brother Raymond, should I send them to the police station?"

    "Idiot!" Raymond shot Dongzi a frustrated re.

    Noon, 12 o¡¯clock.

    Elliana Lyle was curled up on the sofa, the TV ying cartoons, but her eyes stayed fixed on her phone. Only Lana, who had finished her chores, watched the TV diligently.

    The premiere of South Wind Song was forced to cancel today, and ire Cotton sent her a message.

    ire: "Elliana, the director threw a huge tantrum today."

    Then followed a video.

    In the video, Thomas Lee was smashing arge teacup, shouting at the air, as though he were not on the set but in a study.

    "His grandma¡¯s! Always stirring up trouble for me! Damn it to hell!" Thomas Lee¡¯s yelling bore some resemnce to a raging gori.

    But what puzzled Elliana was, how did ire Cotton get that video?

    Buzzing¡«

    ire: "Elliana, haven¡¯t you looked at Weibo? This was uploaded by aizen."

    Next followed the Weibo link.

    "???" The currentizens are really something! Indeed, the video¡¯s angle was shot from outside the window, the camera shake revealing the reflection of the ss.

    She quickly looked outside, seeing only high rises, as there were no "desperate fugitives."

    Now Timara Zephyr could no longer y ra Grey¡¯s role, and having hit another trending topic for a failed suicide attempt, she¡¯s currently in the hospital, with reporters who follow relentlessly reporting she¡¯s okay.

    Because of the cheating mistress scandal, Timara Zephyr was cklisted across the inte, her rted works taken down, affecting South Wind Song.

    It seems the second female lead would have to be reced. Elliana thought of bringing Joy Lyle back, though unsure if Thomas Lee would be pleased.

    Thinking it over, letting Norman Bet handle it seemed safer!

    Pikachu?¡«

    At this moment, a call came in from an unfamiliar North City number.

    "Hello, who¡¯s this."

    "It¡¯s me, Luna."

    Upon hearing that familiar sultry voice, Elliana instantly exploded, sitting upright, her tone very aggressive, "You still have the nerve to call me! Weren¡¯t you supposed to have everything under control? Where did you run off to? Do you know I nearly bought the farm?"

    "Don¡¯t shout, don¡¯t shout, cool off a bit, you¡¯re making my ears ring." Luna¡¯szy tone only made Elliana more furious.

    Luna continued, "I ran into some issues at the time, little assistant, why don¡¯t youe see me? I happen to have something I need your help with."

    "What could you possibly need my help with?" Hearing Luna needed something, Elliana had a bad premonition, yet she indeed was Luna¡¯s assistant.

    Luna replied, "Come on,e over, and I¡¯ll tell you. I¡¯m not far, just 700 meters to the left from the Vicars Hotel at the Fengxiang Business Hotel, Room 084."

    "Noting!" Elliana hung up immediately.

    ...

    minutester.

    Fengxiang Business Hotel, Room 084.

    "Oh my goodness! How did you end up like this? Were you chased by a dog?"

    Elliana was stunned. At this moment, Luna was changing bandages, wearing just a small tank top, her bangs clipped up, revealing the wounds on her forehead.

    The abrasions on her arm were especially shocking.

    "Pretty much, chased by dogs, or King¡¯s dogs," Luna said casually as she applied medicine to her wounds, her expression not changing at all.

    King¡¯s dogs? Elliana didn¡¯t understand, so she asked, "What do you mean? Were you discovered by Simon King¡¯s people? By the way, you should have gotten the evidence, right?"

    Luna nodded, "Yes, but it¡¯s not enough, so I want you to do me a favor." Then she looked directly at Elliana.

 Chapter 61 - 60: Unfilial Son

    <h4>Chapter 61: Chapter 60: Unfilial Son</h4>

    "What¡¯s up?"

    Seeing Luna¡¯s serious look, Elliana Lyle instinctively touched her bag.

    "I¡¯ve been exposed, so it¡¯s not good for me to continue tailing Simon King. You help me follow him," Luna said, reassuringly. "Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be nearby following you. You¡¯ll be fine."

    Elliana kept shaking her head at this request. Was this some kind of international joke? Asking her to tail Simon King? She almost got eaten alive by Simon King, okay!

    "Tch, coward!" Luna pouted and shook her head, looking disdainful, and continued applying ointment to her wound.

    Coward? Has Elliana ever been afraid of anyone?

    "It¡¯s just tailing Simon King! How hard can it be?" Elliana patted her chest. "Leave it to me!"

    "Mm." Luna raised an eyebrow and smiled, everything within her grasp.

    ¨D¨D¨DSouth City, Rnd Brokerage Co., Ltd.

    Meeting room.

    This was a very important shareholders¡¯ meeting. The finance manager, Mr. Qian, had been sentenced to five years in prison for helping the Art Elegance bossunder money.

    Although Rnd hadn¡¯t suffered a fatal blow, its reputation took a hit due to illegal tax evasion, and it had to pay back a lot of taxes.

    All the shareholders attributed everything to Shane Southwell.

    The secondrgest shareholder, Matthew Lee, wore a grim expression. He didn¡¯t speak up, but instead, a shareholder with only three percent stood up.

    "Since the vice president took office, not only has thepany failed to develop in a positive direction, but it¡¯s also losing money, causing significant shareholder losses! President, this time the finance manager broke thew! Thepany evaded taxes! Where did the evaded taxes go?"

    "Yeah! Whose pocket did the evaded taxes go into? It couldn¡¯t have been with the finance manager, could it?"

    As soon as these words were spoken, everyone¡¯s eyes were glued to Shane Southwell¡¯s face, like wolves eying a sheep.

    Shane Southwell was still sitting in his wheelchair. His expression, which could hardly be described as sullen, had ckened to the point of resembling coal, with a barely contained fury ready to explode.

    Even Cameron Southwell, at the top, said nothing. What was there to say? What could he say? If this was investigated, ten of Shane¡¯s heads wouldn¡¯t be enough to save him.

    As a father, he only learned of such things after the incident. If someone imed Shane had no business acumen, he wouldn¡¯t believe it.

    He managed to evade so much tax behind his back, and gambled away all the money! He wished he could hang this wayward son up and beat him!

    "Ladies and gentlemen, indeed, it is the young vice president¡¯s inexperience in managing his subordinates. Rest assured, the repaid tax will not trouble you," Cameron Southwell said slowly, filled with frustration. When had he ever been humiliated like this?

    Thinking about this, he nced at Shane again, all because of this ipetent son!

    "President, I¡¯m afraid this isn¡¯t quite an exnation, is it?"

    Bang!

    The sound of a porcin cup shattering to the ground silenced the entire conference room. The one who threw it was none other than Shane Southwell, unable to endure any longer.

    "A bunch of noisy old fools!" Shane¡¯s gaze was cold. If his legs were healed now, he would probably beat these people so badly their own mothers wouldn¡¯t recognize them.

    Matthew Lee seemed to have gotten the reaction he wanted, mming the table, sternly stating, "Shane Southwell! Watch your words! Everyone here is either older or more senior than you!"

    "Enough!"

    Shane sneered with contempt, wanting to continue, but was interrupted by Cameron!

    "Remove the vice president from his position, to be decided by a vote from all shareholders!"

    "Dad! Are you out of your mind?" Shane was incredulous. His father wasn¡¯t supporting him?

    Cameron didn¡¯t pay any attention to this rebellious son, merely shouting, "Vote now!"

    "I agree!"

    "I also agree!"

    Out of those present, only one or two shareholders disagreed. One could only imagine how little support Shanemanded.

    Cameron Southwell had his own considerations. He had no choice but to do this; the matter had to be smoothed over, or his rebellious son¡¯s only fate would be prison!

    However, with the vice president¡¯s position revoked, it seemed Shane would also have to relinquish his shares!

    Cameron nced at Cari standing at the door: "Escort him out!"

    "Yes, President." Cari quickly stepped forward, hurriedly pushing the man, who was almost hyperventting with anger, out the door.

    Without the vice president¡¯s position, how could she still be his assistant?

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City, Vicars Hotel.

    When Elliana Lyle returned, she found Norman Bet already back.

    "Where did you go?"

    As soon as she entered, she was questioned by the man sitting on the sofa, his tone and attitude somewhat icy.

    "I went to Fengxiang Business Hotel to see my friend." Elliana answered very honestly; she didn¡¯t feel there was anything to hide.

    Hearing the girl¡¯s honest reply, the man¡¯s expression softened quite a bit, and he gestured, "Come here."

    Elliana obediently went over to the man and naturally sat in hisp.

    The man caressed her face, which still bore faint red marks, his heart aching. He asked softly, "Does it still hurt?"

    "Hurt from what?"

    Elliana stared nkly at the man, then squirmed, her expression growing more awkward: "Norman Bet, the way you said it, I feel pain everywhere!"

    "This won¡¯t happen again. I¡¯ll protect you." Norman¡¯s eyes, once intimidating, grew gentle, like the first snow melting in his palm.

    "Norman Bet~ I was so scared at the time." Elliana snuggled deeper into his arms, pressing her face against his neck, inhaling the unique scent of Norman.

    The man gently patted her back, "I know, it won¡¯t happen again."

    The gentle, lingering enunciation always felt familiar to Elliana, reminiscent of a deration from a past life: Elliana! Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯ll take you home, and I¡¯ll never let go!

    "Norman Bet~ I love you, really, really love you." Elliana couldn¡¯t help but hold him tighter.

    "Really?"

    The man¡¯s tone was somewhat dismissive. When Elliana looked up, she found a smile on Norman Bet¡¯s face, a charming and indescribably beautiful sight.

    Using a metaphor, Norman Bet at this moment was like a proud white peacock, noble and aloof, with a soft smile drawn just for her.

    "Norman Bet~ kiss me."

    ...

    After a lingering entanglement, Elliana was nearly out of breath, her face reddened, panting slightly.

    She pouted, "Norman Bet, you can¡¯t kiss for so long, you¡¯ll leave me breathless!"

    "I know my limits." The man cupped her face again, affectionate: "I want more."

    Elliana: "..."

    Seeing the man¡¯s face drawing near, Elliana pushed against his chest: "Wait! Promise me one thing first, and then I¡¯ll let you kiss as much as you want!"

    The man raised an eyebrow, simply saying, "Say it!"

    "Can I have my sister take over the second female lead in ¡¯South Wind Song¡¯?"

    "Alright."

    Elliana instantly grinned, "Then help me talk to Director Li, okay? You¡¯ve got influence."

    "Sure, anything else?" the man asked.

    After thinking for a moment, Elliana shook her head: "That¡¯s it!"

    "Mm~"

    ...

    "Norman Bet, where are you putting your hands!!!"

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 62 - 61: Wait to Be Bailed Out

    <h4>Chapter 62: Chapter 61: Wait to Be Bailed Out</h4>

    The next day.

    Joy Lyle received arrangements from her "boss" and left Phoebe Lyle¡¯s house, heading straight to the film crew.

    In cases like these where there¡¯s a sudden change of actors, they need to quickly reshoot the previous scenes, followed by post-production editing.

    Elliana Lyle, however, had some free time. Thomas Lee said she didn¡¯t need to go to the set for a week, so she thought she could finally spend some quality time with Norman Bet.

    However, things didn¡¯t go as nned. Norman Bet was so busy he couldn¡¯t pay any attention to her. She wouldn¡¯t even see a glimpse of him during the day, only seeing him at night!

    Still, Norman Bet did bring her some good news: Adrian Young and Luna had been imprisoned.

    She breathed a slight sigh of relief, feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders.

    On the third day of her break, Luna proactively invited her to meet, again at the Fengxiang Hotel.

    Luna took out a photo and said, "This is Simon King. Take a good look at him."

    "At 9 o¡¯clock today, he will leave thepany. ording to my observations and intelligence, he will be meeting another lover today. You need to follow him."

    After speaking, Luna handed her a new phone, "I¡¯ve installed a tracker."

    Looking at the sky-blue mirrored phone, Elliana Lyle hesitated for a few seconds before epting the phone from Luna. Running away at thest minute was not her style.

    "Alright, leave it to me." Elliana Lyle agreed right away, showing great courage.

    It was already past 8 o¡¯clock, and she had to hurry and catch a cab to the stakeout point. The address was Lan Dongting Real Estate Development, which wasn¡¯t far; a cab ride would take just ten minutes.

    ¨D¨D¨DLan Dongting Real Estate Development.

    Elliana Lyle bought a cup of milk green tea and a burger, sitting on a bench by the roadside, waiting. She wore a fluffy white dress and a lemon-yellow bucket hat, with fashionable oval burgundy sunsses on her cute face.

    This outfit made her look like a little girl out for shopping.

    Around 9:10, she finally saw Simon King at the revolving door!

    The man in a ck suit was followed by two strong bodyguards. Elliana Lyle hesitated for a moment, thinking if she got caught red-handed, it would be the talk of themunity!

    As Simon King headed toward the vehicle, Elliana Lyle quickly stood up, tossed the burger box, and walked unhurriedly to the roadside, quickly hailing a taxi.

    There were plenty of taxis on this stretch, no wonder Luna said there was no need to worry about transportation.

    "Little girl, where to?" The taxi driver was a middle-aged man, looking kind and amiable.

    By this time, Simon King had already gotten into his car, and his two bodyguards were still scouting the area.

    "Uncle, please follow that ck car." Elliana Lyle pointed to the ck vehicle in front,

    The taxi driver, seeing she was just a young girl, assumed she was following a boyfriend and didn¡¯t ask many questions, simply followed her instructions.

    After about ten minutes, Simon King¡¯s car stopped by the roadside, and Elliana Lyle quickly told the driver, "Uncle, stop at that advertisement board ahead!"

    The billboard was ten meters away from Simon King¡¯s car. After paying, Elliana Lyle got out of the car with a sense of unease, stood right at the billboard, snapped a selfie with her phone, then pretended to lower her head to send messages.

    After these acts to cover up her actions, Elliana Lyle looked towards Simon King¡¯s side. Not only was there a bus stop here, but there was also a shopping center behind it.

    Simon King slowly got out of the car. The bodyguards didn¡¯t follow, and he walked towards the shopping center alone.

    But Luna had warned her to be cautious since Simon King would not be too mboyant outside, but that didn¡¯t mean there were no bodyguards; they would be lurking in the shadows.

    She then followed, maintaining a reasonable distance in the crowd of the bustling shopping center square, her small figure weaving through the crowd, barely keeping up with Simon King¡¯s pace.

    When Simon King entered the shopping center¡¯s main entrance, he disappeared from her view. Her heart sank, and she hurriedly quickened her pace to catch up.

    Luckily, she didn¡¯t lose him. She spotted the man in the suit in the distance, and currently, he was the only suited man she could see.

    Half an hourter...

    After following him all the way, Elliana Lyle discovered Simon King had arrived at a rtively less crowded area, with the sound of incessant traffic in her ears and only the two of them in the pedestrian passage.

    Being far away, Elliana Lyle could hardly see the person in front clearly, so she quickened her pace.

    Suddenly, Simon King in front pulled out a phone from his briefcase, then stopped to make a call.

    Elliana Lyle also stopped by the streetmp, not daring to look around, only ying on her phone with her head down.

    When Simon King continued walking, she followed again.

    "Is this the police? Someone is following me!"

    The man ahead of Elliana Lyle sounded panicked, withrge beads of sweat on his forehead, wearing a Bluetooth earphone with a faint glow.

    This man was not Simon King; he was just a middle-aged man fired by thepany, timid and cowardly.

    On the other end, the police immediately responded, "Sir, please state your current location!"

    "Wanhua Road..."

    "Sir, please remain calm and try to head towards a more crowded area. Our officers are on the way!"

    Elliana Lyle continued to follow at a safe distance, utterly unaware that the man ahead had already alerted the police. At the same time, she wondered if Simon King took his briefcase when he got out of the car?

    ...

    North City Police Station.

    Elliana Lyle sat on a red-painted chair, in front of her was a paper cup with the words "Police Station" printed on it.

    She really had no way to honestly exin to the police officer in front of her, so they were at an impasse.

    When the tea had gotten cold, finally, someone came to get her out. To her surprise, Norman Bet also showed up!

    She had clearly called Luna earlier!

    ...

    "Get in the car!" Norman Bet demanded, face stern.

    Elliana Lyle dared notin, obediently getting into the car, as she didn¡¯t know how to exin things to Norman Bet.

    With a bang, the car door closed, but Norman Bet didn¡¯t get in. He merely instructed the driver, "Drive!"

    "Huh? Norman Bet, aren¡¯t youing back with me?" Elliana Lyle rolled down the window, reaching out to grab the man¡¯s arm.

    Norman Bet looked down at her, appearing genuinely angry.

    "You¡¯d better go back and think carefully about what excuse you¡¯ll use to deceive me."

    "I just thought of it! Uh..." Elliana Lyle realized she had misspoken, suddenly closing her mouth, making the atmosphere slightly awkward.

    "..." The man lightly frowned, really unsure what kind of thoughts upied this girl¡¯s mind.

    "Not really~ What I mean is, I will exin to you."

    "Let go!" Norman Betmanded coldly.

    Elliana Lyle pouted and shook her head, "No, Norman Bet, don¡¯t be mad. I¡¯ve already told you, I did follow someone, but I followed the wrong person."

    "Who were you initially supposed to follow?" the man asked.

    Elliana Lyle answered honestly, "Simon King."

    After hearing this answer, Norman Bet¡¯s expression noticeably softened. This little girl wasn¡¯t lying to him, at least not entirely.

    "Alright, you go back first. I¡¯lle backter to apany you, be good." Norman Bet gently patted her head, like smoothing the fur of a kitten.

 Chapter 63 - 62: Just Replace Them

    <h4>Chapter 63: Chapter 62: Just Rece Them</h4>

    After the car left Norman Bet¡¯s sight, he turned to look at the girl in Lolita fashion, short and sucking on a lollipop, leaning against the flowerbed.

    "When did you return to the country?" Norman Bet¡¯s tone was devoid of any emotion, yet carried a cold oppressive feeling, like a stern elder.

    Luna took the candy out of her mouth, staring at the red candy ball, nonchntly said, "Just these past few days."

    "Let¡¯s talk?"

    "Sure, what do you want to talk about?" Luna slightly tilted her chin, signaling the man to speak up quickly, maintaining an indifferent attitude towards this cold man. She definitely wasn¡¯t like that coward Elliana.

    Norman Bet had no intention of wasting words, directly said, "I don¡¯t care what she has you do, from now on, your own affairs, don¡¯t involve her, otherwise, even if Yuntianes, I¡¯ll still throw you out."

    Upon hearing the name Yuntian, Luna¡¯s expression changed slightly, clearly stunned for a moment, then recovered with a look of disdain, "Tch."

    Norman Bet said indifferently, "You¡¯re wee to try."

    Before Luna could retort, her phone rang; it was a call from her brother overseas.

    Why is there a call now?

    Upon answering, an anxious male voice came through the phone: "Luna, I asked you to return to the country to have fun, don¡¯t cause any trouble! Norman Bet has a bad temper, don¡¯t provoke him anymore!"

    Luna lifted her eyelids to nce at Norman Bet, responding into the phone, "Oh, hanging up!" Then she immediately hung up the phone.

    She was silent for a moment, finally said to Norman Bet, "I got it."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    It¡¯s already 7 PM, and Norman Bet hadn¡¯te back yet. Just as she was about to text him about when he¡¯d be back, Elliana received a call from Luna.

    "Coward, you¡¯re my official assistant from now on." Luna directly said this, leaving Elliana momentarily speechless.

    Luna¡¯s inner thoughts: Dare to threaten me? I¡¯ll turn your wife into my ally!

    Elliana, who was stunned for a while, was somewhat pleased. She originally thought Luna would fire her directly, "I¡¯m sorry, I followed the wrong person today, don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t make the same mistake again."

    The other end was silent for a moment, then Luna sighed helplessly, "Forget it! You don¡¯t need to bother with this, just send me some money, I¡¯ll hire someone else, and you¡¯ll get a share of the profitster."

    "Sure!" Elliana dly agreed, and then heard the sound of the door opening. She instinctively turned her head to see Norman Bet was back!

    Elliana quickly covered the phone and whispered, "Got to go! Norman Bet is back!"

    Beep!

    The call ended.

    Luna looked at the phone in her hand with a bit of disdain, "Coward."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DSouth City, Weyfar Manor.

    This was where Shane Southwell had lived since childhood. At this moment, he was sitting on the sofa, expressionless; in this house, he couldn¡¯t out-argue anyone.

    In the middle of the sofa, Cameron Southwell and his wife, Mrs. Brooke, were having a big argument.

    "You think I don¡¯t know who Nathan Dawn is? Isn¡¯t he the bastard you had with some whore! You brought him back to be vice president! What about Shane? You¡¯re his real dad!" Mrs. Brooke yelled loudly, as if on explosives, her voice louder than New Year¡¯s firecrackers.

    Cameron Southwell had a dark expression: "Don¡¯t be so harsh with your words! Nathan is also my son, of course I need to bring him back!" Then he pointed at Shane Southwell: "Better than this good-for-nothing."

    "Oh! Oh! Bringing a bastard back and insulting your own son! Cameron Southwell, are you still human? You¡¯re worse than a pig or dog!" Mrs. Brooke¡¯s face trembled with rage, her expression fierce as if she might devour someone.

    "Rosy Brooke! Watch your mouth, what bastard, that¡¯s my son! He¡¯s Shane Southwell¡¯s elder brother!"

    Cameron Southwell had many illegitimate children, most dealt with by paying them off, but Nathan was different, born to him and his college sweetheart, so he sent this son abroad for education.

    Now Shane Southwell isn¡¯t doing well, but Cameron hadn¡¯t nned to abandon him, he just wanted to send him abroad to manage other properties.

    It¡¯s also a chance to have Nathan return, including his beloved first love.

    Thinking of this, Cameron Southwell looked seriously at Shane Southwell, said, "You¡¯ll go abroad yourself, I¡¯ll have George Lyle meet you."

    "What?" Shane Southwell exploded at the words: "You want me to follow George Lyle in shady business?"

    "You still think it¡¯s shady? What you¡¯ve done here can¡¯t see the light of day!" One sentence from Cameron Southwell rendered Shane speechless.

    No! This can¡¯t happen!

    Shane Southwell clenched his fists; under no circumstances did he want to work with George Lyle. That kind of life was definitely not what he wanted.

    Mrs. Brooke also knew what George Lyle was about and immediately raged, shielding her son, "Cameron Southwell, are you even human? You actually want to turn our son into a sewer rat?"

    "Hmph! Foolish ignorance!" Cameron Southwell pointed at his defiant son, said, "If you don¡¯t go out yourself, be prepared to spend your life in prison!"

    "Let¡¯s go!" Cameron Southwell wasted no more words and directly left the mansion.

    Mrs. Brooke¡¯s furious scolding didn¡¯t cease, while outside, the serene night was much moreforting than the tense atmosphere inside the mansion.

    Cameron Southwell forcefully hit his ears to feel better. Indeed, old age couldn¡¯t endure such vocal assaults.

    Inside the mansion, Shane Southwell finally reached a boiling point, raising a ceramic teapot and smashing it to the ground!

    ...

    At this time, Rnd Brokerage Company.

    Vice President¡¯s office, private lounge.

    Nathan Dawn came out of the bathroom, half-naked, revealing his distinct eight-pack abs. He looked at the woman on the bed, "Leave on your own, I don¡¯t have time to send you."

    "Brother Nathan~ I¡¯m in pain..." Eleanor Llyod partially covered her face, her eyes red from crying.

    Nathan Dawn frowned slightly. He hadn¡¯t realized that Eleanor Llyod was a virgin. Now turned legitimate, he had set his sights on Shane Southwell¡¯s woman, Eleanor Llyod!

    Thinking she was used up but turned out to be fresh, gave him a greater sense of aplishment, making him even more pleased.

    "Then stay here tonight." Nathan Dawn said, leaving the lounge directly; having just been promoted, he needed to seize a lot of things swiftly.

    Seeing Nathan Dawn leave, Eleanor Llyod breathed a sigh of relief, feeling somewhat d. She had been worried about Shane Southwell¡¯s downfall, and now she was Nathan¡¯s woman.

    Before she could continue dwelling on it, her phone lit up; it was a message from Shane Southwell.

    Shane Southwell: "Eleanor, my father wants me to go abroad, are you willing toe with me?"

    ...

    Eleanor Llyod coldly looked at the message from Shane Southwell with no reaction, but at this moment she couldn¡¯t afford to offend Shane Southwell.

    Thinking it over, she decided to ignore it; Shane Southwell was no longer of any use to her.

    The already troubled Shane Southwell had not received a reply from Eleanor Llyod, growing even more anxious, but thinking she was likely asleep.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 64 - 63: Working Girl, Joy Lyle

    <h4>Chapter 64: Chapter 63: Working Girl, Joy Lyle</h4>

    The wind blows and the days pass, time flies westward, day by day, and in the blink of an eye, it¡¯s a monthter.

    Season one of "South Wind Song" was hurriedlypleted and is set to premiere on September 21st.

    Under the quiet night, it¡¯s already one o¡¯clock in the morning, today is the day of the premiere event, and after it ended, the director treated most of the cast to a banquet which has just ended now.

    Elliana Lyle, limp as if boneless, slumped in Norman Bet¡¯s embrace, the car speeding along the highway, she was so exhausted today that she hadn¡¯t even changed out of her event dress.

    "Norman~ it¡¯s a bit stuffy, help me open a window," Elliana saidzily, not even bothering to lift her eyelids.

    There was a soft noise, and then a refreshing cool breeze blew by her ears, tousling the hair at her forehead.

    "If you¡¯re tired, sleep for a while, be good."

    The next day, 12 noon.

    Elliana finally woke up, groggy and feeling the curtains blocking all natural light. She reached out to turn on themp and when she checked her phone, she realized it waste.

    She opened Weibo and discovered that she had gained 800,000 followers overnight, and this is after just one episode aired.

    Pikachu?¡«

    Victor King¡¯s phone call came in.

    "Hey, Victor."

    "Elliana, the studio has set up three endorsements for you. I¡¯ll pick you up at 3 PM today," Victor said.

    Endorsements? More money to be made! But...

    Elliana wanted to feel happy, but she couldn¡¯t. She didn¡¯t earn a penny from this movie, and although Norman gave her a card to use freely, she always felt like every time she spent money, Norman would know!

    Hearing Elliana not speaking, Victor thought it was not doable, so he said, "Then Elliana, tomorrow morning works too, you should rest well today."

    "No need, no need, Victor, let¡¯s do it today," Elliana quickly replied.

    After she attended the premiere, Victor changed the way he addressed her, from Miss Lyle to Elliana, which made her feel like a bit of a celebrity, though it felt strange having someone older call her Elliana.

    ...

    Bailey Lemon Tea photography studio.

    The ce was filled with equipment, light panels, green screens, you name it.

    Elliana changed into a lemon-yellow short dress, with lemon slice decorations even on her ponytail, posing for the camera as the photographer instructed.

    "Great work today, Elliana, truly tireless."

    With each update of "South Wind Song," Elliana received more endorsements, and by the time the first season ended in October, she had over ten million followers on Weibo. Her sweet and cute screen image had won the hearts of many, earning her the affectionate title of the nation¡¯s darling.

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    With the sound of the door opening, Elliana knew Norman was back. She was too busy to look at him, just symbolically saying, "Norman, you¡¯re back!"

    Elliana was sitting on the sofa, busy with a small mirror, swiftly touching up her lipstick, and getting up to leave.

    "Where are you going?" The man had already approached, his tall figure blocking her way.

    Elliana stood on tiptoe, gave a swift peck on the man¡¯s cheek, then deftly slipped past him to the door, changing her shoes as she said, "Norman, just go to sleep by yourself, several endorsements are pushing me, bye-bye!"

    Bang!

    The door closed.

    The man stood dazed on the spot, btedly touching the cheek that had just been lightly kissed by the littledy, with a crimson hue left on his fingertips.

    The next day, 10 AM.

    Victor King only brought Elliana back at this time, and after arriving at the door, he left as Lana opened the door for her.

    "Young Madam, you¡¯re back!" Seeing Elliana return, Lana beamed with joy.

    Truth be told, Elliana had been incredibly busytely, hardly ever home, even busier than Norman.

    After gaining massive poprity, she started taking on international brand endorsements with hardly any time toe back home. No sooner had she changed her shoes than she saw the man sitting on the sofa, his usual coffee andptop attendant.

    "Norman, you¡¯re not gone yet? Aren¡¯t you busy?" Elliana asked instinctively.

    The man watched the littledy ignoring him as she walked towards the inside, saying coldly, "Come here."

    "I haven¡¯t slept all night, I¡¯ll wash my face and go to bed, Lana, no need to call me for lunch."

    Elliana virtually dismissed Norman¡¯s words, wobbling towards the master bedroom on her own.

    With the sound of the master bedroom door closing, the man seemed angered, mming theptop shut, and minutester, Elliana, wrapped in a nket like a sushi roll, was carried out by the man.

    "Norman~ I¡¯m sleepy, I want to sleep~"

    The man said nothing, simply carrying her to theputer, seemingly wanting to cuddle with her while working, getting the best of both worlds.

    Today, he had specially declined a few meetings just to spend more time with this littledy.

    ...

    As the days passed, Norman got busier, and the two saw each other less and less.

    The Melody Harmony Group branch office.

    "Who arranged her schedule?" Norman asked with a cold face, his aura radiating an intimidating chill.

    Disyed on theputer in front of him were all of Elliana¡¯s engagements, with as many as seven or eight in a single day.

    Raymond Wood exined cautiously, "Sir, these were all booked by thepany, then I arranged the schedule."

    After saying this, Raymond held his breath in tension.

    "Without my permission, don¡¯t allow her to take these nonsensical endorsements! Prepare the car, to the Kia photography studio."

    Upon hearing this, Raymond felt a reprieve, immediately nodding, "Yes, I¡¯ll arrange it now."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City Kia photography studio.

    Elliana was sitting in a chair, tiredly rubbing her temples, listening to Victor King exin her uing schedule.

    "Elliana, here¡¯s the list of uing engagements," Victor said.

    "..."

    Elliana said nothing, her eyelids drooped, her eyes lifeless. She hadn¡¯t rested well recently and really wanted to sleep properly.

    Since she was heading to Sanya soon, she decided to send Norman a message.

    "Hello, Mr. Norman."

    With polite greetings continued, Elliana finally raised her head, seeing Norman striding towards her, his usually cold face with slightly furrowed brows, emanating an aura of decisive action.

    "Nor..."

    Before she could speak, Norman had already pulled her into his arms.

    Seeing her exhausted face, the coldness in his eyes melted away, reced by tenderness and heartache.

    "Raymond, cancel all her remaining endorsements." Norman¡¯s brows furrowed with righteous indignation, his tone implicit with sternness.

    Raymond hesitated for a few seconds before responding cautiously, "Sir, the others are manageable, but Glory Inc. and Melody Harmony have always had close cooperation."

    He didn¡¯t finish the sentence, knowing how angry Norman was today. If Miss Lyle wasn¡¯t present, Norman might have stormed the studio!

    "Leave just this one," Norman said, then promptly lifted Elliana and carried her away.

    Victor and Raymond exchanged nces, with Victor respectfully saying, "Assistant Wu, why didn¡¯t you mention several international brand endorsements? They would benefit Elliana¡¯s reputation."

    "I¡¯d like to keep my job for a few more years; the rest you arrange yourself."

    Victor was stunned but soon understood Raymond¡¯s implication, replying, "Then Assistant Wu, I¡¯ll attend to it now."

    Half an hourter.

    Joy Lyle received a call from Victor telling her of the arranged schedule.

    Looking at the itinerary Victor sent, she was stunned.

 Chapter 65 - 64: Who Dares Threaten Me? Iâ€™ll Go After His Wife

    <h4>Chapter 65: Chapter 64: Who Dares Threaten Me? I¡¯ll Go After His Wife</h4>

    "Mmm... Norman Bet~ I¡¯m sleepy..." Elliana Lyle murmured, voiceced with heavy drowsiness.

    The man immersed himself in kissing her lips, softly saying, "You sleep, I¡¯ll be gentle."

    ...

    Elliana squinted at the man, cing her hands on his chest to create some distance, "I need to breathe even when I¡¯m sleeping!"

    "I know, you sleep, I¡¯ll just hold you." Norman Bet relented.

    ...

    Returning to the hotel, Elliana was still nestled in the man¡¯s arms, sound asleep, with no intention of waking up.

    It wasn¡¯t until she felt a warmth that she slowly opened her eyes, greeted by the man¡¯s well-defined upper body and his damp hair.

    It looked like he was bathing, and she seemed to be in the bathtub herself.

    Wait! Bathing?

    "Ah!!!"

    "Norman Bet, get out!"

    Norman looked at the person hiding her chin in the bathtub water, her big eyes and puffy face tinged with a rosy hue.

    "Be good, I know, I keep my promises."

    Norman¡¯s words made Elliana¡¯s face even redder, recalling the incident from half a month ago when Norman came back half-drunk and almost went too far, making her cry.

    After that, Norman promised that he wouldn¡¯t touch her until they were married.

    Norman¡¯s slender hand reached out to her, tapping her nose with his fingertip, saying, "I¡¯ve already washed you, do you want to get up now or soak for a while longer?"

    "You... you get out! I¡¯ll get up myself."

    "So you want to get up?" Saying that, the man effortlessly lifted the person from the water and wrapped her in a thick bath towel.

    This series of actions was so smooth that Elliana didn¡¯t react at first, just stared at the man¡¯s chiseled jaw in astonishment.

    It was still broad daylight, and Elliana originally nned to stay awake to get back to a normal schedule, but the man¡¯s embrace was so cozy, so warm~ so sleepy.

    ...

    a.m.

    "Norman, are you asleep? I can¡¯t fall asleep..." Elliana murmured softly, her tone a bit aggrieved as the man had confiscated her phone, leaving her to stare nkly in his embrace.

    Clearly, the man had already fallen asleep.

    Elliana tentatively reached out in the dark, lightly kissed the man¡¯s thin lips, and seeing he truly didn¡¯t react, she decided to slip away.

    Just as she felt she could escape the man¡¯s hold, a strong hand pulled her back against his chest.

    "Where are you going?"

    "...Nowhere, just turning over."

    Even so, she couldn¡¯t fall asleep until 9 a.m. when drowsiness finally hit her.

    "Young Madam, you can¡¯t sleep, how about a cup of coffee?" Lana suggested as she watched Elliana¡¯s drooping eyelids from the sofa, following Norman¡¯s instructions to help adjust Elliana¡¯s schedule.

    "Huh? Coffee sounds great." Elliana quickly straightened up and rubbed her eyes.

    After having some bitter coffee, she reluctantly perked up and started scrolling on her phone.

    Buzz buzz~

    Zane Bet: "Sis-inw, could you lend me 200,000?"

    Seeing this message, Elliana didn¡¯t hesitate, knowing Zane Bet was a promising investment, high risk, high reward.

    Before she could transfer the money, Luna sent a message.

    Luna (Master): "I¡¯ve found a nice ce, 2 million a year, minimum one-year lease."

    Cat: "...Isn¡¯t that a bit too expensive?"

    Luna (Master): "High investment, high returns."

    The details go back to about a month ago on a sunny afternoon...

    Fengxiang Business Hotel.

    "I have a n, you provide the money, I provide the effort, let¡¯s partner up to open a detective agency." Luna said earnestly, clearly not joking.

    Elliana was taken aback, thinking Luna had invited her today to solve a case.

    "Huh? Start apany? But... won¡¯t that cost a lot?" Elliana felt she had already spent quite a lot recently...

    Luna raised her chin and said, "High investment for high returns, my brother is the most famous head of a detective agency at XRB."

    "...Really?" Elliana was visibly skeptical.

    "You can look it up, my brother¡¯s name is Owen Sutton."

    "Owen Sutton, male, 28, famous detective and head of XRB, personal detective, royal advisor, known as a sister adorer, once bought a billion-dor mansion for his sister Luna..." Elliana looked at Luna in amazement, saying, "You seem even wealthier than me!"

    "Your family is wealthy too, and your husband Norman Bet practically oozes money. I, on the other hand, don¡¯t want to rely on my family, so I intend to be independent." Luna said coolly.

    These words resonated well with Elliana, earning Luna her admiration. "Ambitious!"

    Luna continued, "Each year, Tiansky Agency handles arge number of detective cases and is thewyer for ¡¯Tokyo Top Tenpanies,¡¯ earning 1.5 billion annually just from these."

    "Wow! That¡¯s lucrative!" Clearly, Elliana was tempted.

    "Moreover, I¡¯ve already selected some top talent as a starting team." Luna finished, showing her phone.

    Pablo Jose Juan, 31, internationally renowned detective, often called the Sherlock Holmes by Sera Riverside, became famous for solving the century-old 381 case,ter expelled for affairs with royalty.

    Andrew Hue, 32, top maindwyer, known for winless defenses, cklisted by various judicial bodies, infamous and thick-skinned, called ¡¯the ouw.¡¯

    Tommy, 42, notorious paparazzi in the entertainment industry, iming he can sneak any person or thing, his scoops could circle the earth twice, albeit with a few bad apples.

    ...Elliana kept her tongue in check, wondering what kind of extraordinary figures these were!

    For uracy, Elliana specifically searched on her phone, confirming everything was true.

    Elliana still felt it was risky, so she hesitated, "I have no experience. What if we incur losses?"

    "Even if youck experience, I do. I¡¯ve been alongside my brother for years, I know the process." Sensing Elliana¡¯s furrowed brows, Luna reassured her, "Trust me, have I ever tricked you?"

    These words somewhat troubled Elliana, who took a long pause to think, saying, "I¡¯ll go back and consider it."

    "Alright."

    Returning to the hotel, Elliana hadn¡¯t even settled in before seeing her headline¡ªTommy exposed her as the secret lover of business tycoon Norman Bet, with mostizens suspecting she used him to climb up!

    There was more¡ª¡¯The nation¡¯s sweetheart made her mark young, and married into a wealthy family!¡¯

    Elliana: "..."

    It was truly pervasive, she and Norman¡¯s rtionship hadn¡¯t reached the level of public knowledge, but now the whole nation knew.

    Although such headlines would copse on their own, she was still a bit agitated. That Tommy!

    "Hello! Is it Luna? I agree! How do we start?"

    Luna said, "You don¡¯t have to worry about any of that, just provide the funds. Once we set up thepany, we¡¯ll split fifty-fifty."

    "Alright!"

    As Elliana readily agreed, Luna raised an eyebrow, thinking that she couldn¡¯t tackle the big one, so she¡¯d handle the small one. She had never been threatened by anyone before; Norman Bet was the first!

    ...

    And that¡¯s how she agreed to partner with Luna to start apany.

    At that moment, looking at the numbers Luna mentioned made Elliana a bit anxious. Although putting out 2 million wasn¡¯t too hard, she wondered how she¡¯d exin it if Norman asked, especially since Luna had told her not to let Norman know.

    Just at this conundrum, a sudden inspiration struck!

    Cat: "Genius, could you give me one of your bank cards?"

    Zane Bet: "Why?"

    Cat: "I need it, every cent I spend now, your brother knows. You should understand my predicament, right?"

    Zane Bet: "Got it, I¡¯ll send it overter, we¡¯re in this together now."

    All set!

    So she replied to Luna, "Okay, but I¡¯ll transfer the money in installments, it¡¯s toorge, I¡¯m afraid Norman might suspect something."

    Luna (Master): "Sure, no rush."

    Elliana switched off her phone, lying on the sofa and sighed: Everything is going ording to n! Nice.

    "Young Madam! You can¡¯t sleep!"

    "..." Elliana was speechless, quickly sitting up, realizing Lana really kept a close watch on her! Like having Norman¡¯s eyes on her all the time.

    Elliana thought for a while, then smiled and asked, "Lana, do you listen to Norman more or me?"

    "This... Young Madam!" Lana found this question difficult, for the Young Master was technically her main employer. But since the Young Master listened to the Young Madam, she should, therefore, listen to the Young Madam first!

    She was just asking casually but didn¡¯t expect Lana to take it so seriously, biting her lip, frowning, looking extremely troubled.

    Naturally, she knew Lana was originally from the Bet Family, and certainly would listen to Norman.

    Before she couldfort her, Lana unexpectedly said with determination, "I listen to the Young Madam. If you¡¯re truly sleepy, you can take a two-hour nap first."

 Chapter 66 - 65: Hainan

    <h4>Chapter 66: Chapter 65: Hainan</h4>

    After thinking it over, Elliana Lyle still refused Lana¡¯s suggestion, perseverance leads to sess, how could she give up halfway?

    To avoid falling asleep, Elliana had several more cups of bitter coffee and turned on the TV, watching until noon, when Zane Bet sent someone to deliver a bank card to her, which finally lifted her spirits a bit.

    After getting the card, she decided to transfer 500,000 into it first, and repeat this process in a few days, which should be fine.

    ...

    That night.

    Relying on coffee to stay awake, Elliana only made it to 8 PM before copsing into bed, utterly exhausted into a deep sleep.

    The next day, when Elliana woke up, it was already 7 AM; the only thing left on the bed was the faint scent of lotus from the man, yet another morning of waking without seeing Norman Bet.

    Today, she had an endorsement shoot to go to, and after breakfast, Victor King came to pick her up.

    ...

    By the time the endorsement ad for Shengyan was finished, it was already 3 PM. Walking out of the Shengyan Group¡¯s entrance, she feltpletely at ease with the noise of the cars outside and the natural cool breeze.

    During the shoot, her face almost froze from smiling too much, and as soon as she got in the car and before she could rx with her headphones, Victor King said, "Elliana, in a few days, there is a reality show invitation that thepany epted for you."

    "Elliana, take a look at this." Victor King handed the tablet he was holding to Elliana.

    She received an invitation for one of the biggest reality shows in the country, "Riding the Waves Ind Survival," which was set in Hainan. Looking at the guest list, there were quite a few famous male and female celebrities, including her favorite female singer, Fenny Grey!

    "Okay, I got it." Elliana said as she continued to read.

    She had watched the show before and was quite looking forward to it. Although it was named a survival show, it was actually more of a fun program where a group yed games and experienced catching seafood by the seaside.

    The car was traveling down the avenue, with the driver taking her straight back to the hotel, and coincidentally, Norman Bet was waiting for her at the hotel entrance.

    "Norman Bet~" After a busy day, seeing the person she loved most always brought joy, and Elliana ran towards him with a bright smile.

    Norman Bet fondly patted the little girl¡¯s head and naturally pulled her into his arms, asking, "Are you tired today?"

    "Not tired at all. By the way! Norman Bet, I¡¯m heading to Hainan; I¡¯ve been invited to a reality show." When Elliana mentioned this, her eyes sparkled, as she had always longed for the sea but hadn¡¯t been there many times.

    Norman Bet looked down at her and nodded slightly, "I know, I¡¯ll arrange more people to apany you on that day. I¡¯ll finish my work here and then join you; I¡¯ll arrive a few dayster."

    "Huh?" Elliana was initially surprised, but then she quickly became ted and hugged the man¡¯s waist, pouting, "Norman Bet, you¡¯re the best!"

    ...

    October 17, North City Yonghe Airport.

    A group of bodyguards in suits and sunsses surrounded the two as they entered the airport, with Norman Bet holding his little beloved¡¯s hand, even slowing his steps.

    It was deep autumn, with significant temperature differences between morning and night. Elliana wore a short beige wool sweater with a high-waisted pencil-knit skirt paired with mid-calf socks, making her appear a few centimeters taller.

    But the man holding her hand was too tall, with an overwhelming aura, making her outfit¡¯s height-enhancing effect negligible.

    "Norman Bet, I¡¯m leaving." For some reason, she felt a sense of reluctance, pouting slightly and lowering her tone.

    "Alright, be good. I¡¯ll be there a few dayster to apany you." The man habitually tapped her nose with his index finger, though his gaze lingered on her soft red lips.

    Were it not for the crowd, Elliana might not have escaped an embrace.

    On the ne, Elliana appeared somewhat anxious. Without Norman Bet and Lana, her fear of the weightlessness during takeoff intensified, tightly clutching her clothes with her delicate, jade-like hands.

    During the takeoff, she couldn¡¯t help but feel panicked, her stomach feeling like the tides were rising.

    "I¡¯d like a cup of ice water, thank you."

    ...

    Four hourster.

    Hainan Phoenix International Airport.

    "Ugh~ cough, cough..."

    At this time, in the restroom, three people watched Elliana vomit, including her manager, Victor King, and two assistants, Peony and Mumu.

    Mumu was a young girl in her early twenties, while Peony was around Victor King¡¯s age, a more senior professional but with greater warmth.

    Seeing Elliana almost finished throwing up, Mumu quickly handed over a bottle of mineral water, "Elliana, here, rinse your mouth."

    "Thanks." Elliana grabbed the bottle of mineral water, and after rinsing her mouth, she lookedpletely drained, weakly saying, "I swear, if I get on a ne again, I¡¯ll be a mouse!"

    The other three exchanged nces, learning for the first time that Elliana got airsick.

    ...

    After boarding the car sent by the show, Elliana leaned on Mumu¡¯s shoulder and fell asleep while they were heading to the hotel arranged by the crew, with the filming starting officially the day after tomorrow.

    Unbeknownst to her, three hours passed as Elliana dozed in a fog until a phone call woke her up.

    It was Joy Lyle on the line.

    "Hello~ Sis~"

    Joy¡¯s gentle voice came from the phone, "Elliana, have you arrived in Hainan?"

    "Yes, I called you this morning, but you didn¡¯t..." Elliana answered groggily into the phone, speaking purely on instinct.

    Soon after, she didn¡¯t hear Joy¡¯s voice but heard someone else shouting, "Joy, have you rested enough yet? We¡¯re about to start."

    "Alright, just a moment. Elliana, I have something to do, I¡¯ll contact youter."

    Beep!

    The call ended.

    After another hour passed, Elliana finally woke up fully, with her head facing the car window, enjoying the evening breeze following the setting sun.

    The wind carried a salty tang and a mineral feel reminiscent of rocks.

    The car eventually stopped at a seaside vi. The crew originally nned to stay at a hotel further away, but Norman Bet had arranged for a luxurious seaside vi for her, enough to amodate the entire crew.

    Elliana¡¯s room was in the center of the second floor, the one with therge balcony and swimming pool.

    "Miss Lyle, we¡¯re d you coulde. I¡¯m the director, Heng Sheng." The director, Heng Sheng, was a man under 30, not particrly tall but noticeably shorterpared to others in the crew.

    "Hello, pleased to meet you," Elliana politely shook the director¡¯s hand, her expression faltering as she saw someone unexpected.

    Among the crowd stood an unexpected figure who wasn¡¯t on the original guest list, Eleanor Llyod.

    After the director introduced everyone, Elliana learned from Victor that Ning Xiaxia had been injured and Eleanor Llyod was thest-minute recement.

    "Elliana, nice to meet you. I¡¯m Eleanor Llyod, but you can call me Eleanor." Eleanor stepped forward to greet her with an innocent and gentle smile, her eyes adorned with blue contact lenses, making Elliana grit her teeth in anger.

    Her beloved Lotus had blue eyes, and although she didn¡¯t own Lotus in this life yet, Eleanor¡¯s blue eyes felt like a stabbing pain.

    Eleanor¡¯s hand hung in the air, with Elliana not responding.

    Elliana¡¯s wide eyes slightly narrowed, drawing closer, her eye sockets a barely noticeable light red, and tension could be felt in her facial muscles.

    "Elliana, this is Eleanor Llyod, an artist from Rnd," Heng Sheng, knowing of their past grudges, hastily interjected with a smile to smooth things over.

    With Heng Sheng¡¯s words, Elliana retracted the hatred in her eyes, the anger dissipating as she stered a smile that didn¡¯t reach her eyes, "Yes, hello."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 67 - 66: Pain

    <h4>Chapter 67: Chapter 66: Pain</h4>

    Entering the vi, Elliana Lyle was surrounded by a crowd, which made her somewhat ufortable, mainly because it was noisy!

    At this moment, a gracefully elegant woman slowly walked down from the crystal-ented white wooden curved staircase, with side-swept curly hair, wearing a graceful red fishtail gown, her face slender yet radiant, adorned with a cold, proud smile.

    This was the person Elliana most wanted to meet here.

    The female singer Fenny Grey.

    "Sorry, I¡¯mte," Fenny Grey¡¯s voice was very cool, carrying a distant politeness.

    However, Elliana was delighted, smiling at this queen-like "big sister" in front of her, saying, "Sister Fenny, hello, I¡¯m Elliana Lyle, I really like your songs."

    Elliana¡¯s attitude startled Fenny Grey a bit; she thought this rising "national sweetheart" would be some formidable character, but unexpectedly... just a naive girl.

    This made Fenny Grey secretly disdain her, yet she maintained a slight smile on her face: "It¡¯s fate, your new drama is well done too."

    Elliana¡¯s smile grew wider, because what does it feel like to be praised by an idol? Of course, it¡¯s like flying with joy.

    As early as four years ago, before Fenny Grey gained much fame, Elliana started listening to her music. As these years passed, Fenny Grey gradually became very popr, a rising star in the music scene, even being invited by the "Voice Energy" program group as a mentor this year.

    "Sister Fenny! Can I ask you for an autograph?" Elliana looked at Fenny Grey expectantly, her eyes sparkling.

    Fenny Grey gently stroked her hair by her ear, nodding slightly, "Sure."

    Given Fenny Grey¡¯s permission, Elliana quickly looked behind her, and Luna promptly handed her a somewhat worn-out notebook she had taken out earlier. This was the lyrics notebook Elliana copied during her freshman year, mostly containing Fenny Grey¡¯s songs.

    At that time, she really liked Fenny Grey.

    ...

    At the beach party at night, Elliana was warm and polite to everyone, except she less frequently spoke to Eleanor Llyod, who proactively approached.

    If youe over again, I might not be able to resist gouging out your eyes! Elliana thought to herself, but she knew that would be illegal.

    "Miss Eleanor, excuse me," Elliana tried her best to smile, controlling her impulse, then moved away from Eleanor Llyod towards Fenny Grey.

    After getting along, aside from Eleanor Llyod, Elliana¡¯s impression of everyone was good, thinking that these two weeks would be pleasant.

    But liking Elliana naturally means some dislike her. Most people found Elliana cheerful, lively, cute, and polite.

    Of course, some people thought she was just an inexperienced neer whose sess relied solely on wealth. They smiled at Elliana on the surface, but internally they were very disdainful.

    ...

    "Why does she get to stay in the best room? This vi was provided by Shen Zong of Melody Harmony, shouldn¡¯t it be the ace Sister Fenny living there?" An assistant wearing a white short sleeve and sses discussed with someone nearby.

    At this time, a videographer passing by with a camera named Liam Zander stopped and refuted them: "Don¡¯t you know, Elliana is Shen Zong¡¯s fianc¨¦e, the princess of Xiangtian Group. Even I, a guy, know that you don¡¯t check Weibo?"

    After hearing this, they were stunned for a moment, then sneered, one of them spoke sarcastically: "No wonder, I was wondering why there¡¯s such a smell of money, like someone who¡¯s never seen the world, asking people for autographs upon meeting."

    Liam Zander raised his eyebrows, without intending to argue with them.

    He was still holding the camera filming videos of Miss Lyle for the president, but he happened to also capture the two of them.

    ...

    On the third day.

    The program team¡¯s preparations wereplete, and Elliana changed into a white t-shirt with matching pants today, tying her long hair into a bun, looking fresh and clean.

    A dozen people stood in a row on the beach, first starting to form groups, with groups of three. Elliana luckily teamed up with Fenny Grey, yet unfortunately also teamed with Eleanor Llyod.

    After exining the rules, the director instructed each group to act separately, needing to catch enough seafood for three before 12 o¡¯clock or they would have to go hungry.

    Fenny Grey seemed a bit disdainful of doing such things, her cool face furrowing her brows, hesitating to go towards the rocks.

    "Sister Fenny,e on." Elliana was already in the water, holding pliers, gesturing to Fenny Grey still on the shore.

    "Alright, you go ahead, we¡¯ll split up to find it, it should be faster." Fenny Grey maintained a gentle smile, their rtionship brought closer than before.

    Eleanor Llyod quickly approached Elliana, "Sister Elliana, let¡¯s go together." This was not for anything else but because Elliana¡¯s camera time would surely be much.

    "As you wish." Naturally, Elliana didn¡¯t give her a good face.

    Although it seemed like they were catching seafood, actually, Elliana had many people around her, plus a group around Eleanor Llyod, making up a total of over ten people.

    "Little crab!" Elliana barefooted on the uneven rocks, her eyes fixed on a big red crab in the crevice not far away.

    The crowd quickly followed, Elliana was small, nimble in this uneven, bumpy rocky ce, almost outrunning them.

    Until she stepped on a raised rock and stopped.

    "Sister Elliana, pleasee down, this is dangerous!" Luna hesitantly advised Elliana with a small voice.

    The rock behind her was a deep water area, but with so many people around, she thought it certainly couldn¡¯t be dangerous.

    The ce where the crab was hiding wasn¡¯t advantageous for it, trapped in a crevice, surrounded, unable to advance or retreat.

    Just when Elliana was carefully trying to catch the crab with pliers, she suddenly felt a strong pinch at her waist! She lost her bnce and fell into the sea, and with her, photographer Liam Zander also fell!

    "Sister Elliana!!"

    ...

    "Nothing serious, the worst is a minor fracture in the ankle,tely don¡¯t move," a doctor in a white coat said.

    This was a nearby small hospital, with simple surroundings, Elliana nowy on a pure white hospital bed, staring at the ceiling, her ankle bandaged, as was her forehead.

    The ankle injury was from bumping in the water, and the forehead from hitting the camera. Everyone med photographer Liam Zander, but after speaking to him properly, she helped him clear the me.

    Because she didn¡¯t believe it was the photographer who pushed her down; carrying a camera, it wouldn¡¯t be possible for him to have a free hand to pinch her waist, would it?

    The people around the bed all wore worried expressions, especially seeing Elliana nkly staring at the ceiling, clenching her teeth, thinking her head had issues. After all, such a big wound on her forehead.

    Actually, she was just feeling the pain now as the anesthesia wore off, yet in front of so many people, her pain made her afraid to voice it.

    Her rounded eyes stared at the ceiling for a moment, and upon hearing Eleanor Llyod speak, directly shifted to stare at Eleanor Llyod, very suspecting it was Eleanor Llyod¡¯s ploy! But she had no evidence, because Eleanor Llyod had jumped in to save her.

    "Sister Elliana, are you feeling better?" Eleanor Llyod inquired.

    Elliana did not speak, continued gritting her teeth, ring fiercely at Eleanor Llyod.

    At this moment, urgent footsteps echoed from the corridor outside the ward, not just one pair.

    Only to see a man enter from the ward door, the person she was longing for, Norman Bet! Suddenly she felt so aggrieved,ing out only to be bullied...

    "... Norman... boohoo... Norman Bet... it hurts... wah..."

    The young girl, who had been gritting her teeth and staring, upon seeing Norman Bet, burst into tears, crying like a newborn baby, a heart-wrenching sound.

    Others were shocked, thinking Elliana¡¯s good acting skill is surely genuine! Indeed deserving of her reputation!

    "Everyone, please step out for a moment." Raymond Wood sensibly ushered the people out.

    The door closed softly, leaving only the two of them in the ward.

    "Boohoo..."

    The man furrowed his eyebrows tightly, lightly touching the small girl¡¯s teary face, his expression showing gentleness along with some anger, but mostly heartache.

 Chapter 68 - 67: What Kind of Earthly Suffering Is This?

    <h4>Chapter 68: Chapter 67: What Kind of Earthly Suffering Is This?</h4>

    Haikou Phoenix Airport, exactly 6 in the morning.

    Due to Elliana Lyle¡¯s injury, which isn¡¯t light but not too severe either, she can no longer continue recording the show.

    Norman Bet, to ensure she recuperates well, is now pushing her towards the airport, ready to head home.

    "Norman Bet, don¡¯t be mad, I really didn¡¯t fall because I was fooling around." Seated in the wheelchair, Elliana continues to fidget, twisting her head and gesturing animatedly to exin to the man behind her.

    However, the man with a cold face only gives her a sidelong nce from under hisshes and then ignores her.

    He quietly pushes the wheelchair forward, his thin lips tightly pressed, showing no intention of speaking with her.

    Seeing that the man still ignores her, Elliana can¡¯t help but pout, filling her mouth with air. Apart from his initial worry when he saw her, Norman Bet has since kept a cold expression towards her.

    "Norman Bet~ were you raised on ice cubes?" With a sore neck, Elliana wants to turn aroundpletely.

    Seeing this, Norman furrows his brow, his face showing mild anger as he softly scolds, "Sit properly, don¡¯t move around!"

    "... You¡¯re so fierce."

    Following along with the team, Victor King feels a mix of emotions, thinking that this variety show was Elliana¡¯s bigger chance.

    North City, Vicars Hotel, Room 201.

    Joy Lyle, dressed in a khaki trench coat, stands by the transparent ss window, rxedly gazing at the temperature-dropped North City. Unnoticeable cold breezes slip in through the slightly open window cracks.

    Just then, her phone rings from the bedside table not far away.

    "Hello, Sister Wang." Joy Lyle is a bit puzzled as to why Victor King would call her now.

    ...

    "Alright, I got it." Nodding as she hangs up, Joy Lyle quickly calls Elliana.

    "Hello, the number you dialed..."

    After considering for a moment, she decides to send a few greeting messages instead. With Norman around, everything should be fine.

    She walks straight to the wardrobe, calmly pulls out her suitcase, and starts packing her things.

    Victor King asked her to take over Elliana¡¯s show, and coincidentally, she has amercial in Sanya, it¡¯s just that her schedule has be tighter.

    ...

    Twenty-one dayster.

    North City Central Hospital.

    Elliana has been lying in bed for a full twenty-one days, and today is the day to remove the cast. Norman Bet has specifically taken time off work to apany her to the hospital.

    At this moment, ire White is holding a few X-ray films, carefully examining them. After pushing up her sses, she says, "Recovery is going well, it¡¯s best not to put any weight on the injured foot for now."

    "But it feels itchy inside the bone," she says while seated in Norman Bet¡¯s arms, her almond-shaped eyes staring intently at her ankle, pale and bloodless from the cast removal, trying to move it.

    Hiss~

    It still hurts!

    Seeing Elliana grimacing in pain as she tries to move her ankle, ire White chuckles lightly and says, "The growth of bone callus can cause itching. I rmend applying a heated towel for relief."

    Leaving the hospital, Norman Bet carries the little girl in his arms, walking smoothly and steadily towards the car.

    Just as she sits down, she hears the man¡¯s phone ringing.

    "Hello, I¡¯m at the airport. Come pick me up."

    "Uh-huh, okay." Norman Bet says and hangs up the call, then tells Lana, "Take good care of her."

    "Don¡¯t worry, young master."

    Elliana frowns, her eyes flickering as she looks at Norman Bet. Just as the man is about to leave, she quickly calls out to him, asking, "Norman Bet, who are you picking up?"

    From the phone earlier, she heard a woman¡¯s voice. Who could prompt Norman Bet to personally pick her up?

    "Can Ie with you?" Elliana tentatively asks again.

    Hearing this request, Norman Bet reluctantly pats her head, "Be good, just go back and rest."

    After saying this, Norman Bet shows no intent to linger and quickly disappears from her sight.

    "..." Elliana doesn¡¯t have time to say anything.

    The car starts, driving on the wide road. She¡¯s a bit upset, though she doesn¡¯t quite know why.

    "What¡¯s wrong, ma¡¯am?" Noticing Elliana¡¯s mood, Lana looks at her with concern.

    "Lana, who is the woman that Norman Bet is picking up?" Elliana can¡¯t help but ask.

    Hearing Elliana¡¯s question, Lana thinks for a moment, then says uncertainly, "The woman... it seems that the only one young master would personally pick up is Miss Hannah Collins."

    "Hannah Collins? Who is Hannah Collins?" Elliana has never heard this name before.

    Lana blurts out without thinking, "Miss Hannah Collins was young master¡¯s childhood ymate. My mom said they even had a childhood betrothal."

    Childhood friends! A betrothal?

    What kind of earthly sorrow is this?

    "What else do you know? When was this betrothal set up? Howe I didn¡¯t know about it?" Elliana¡¯s heart is already clenching, wanting to know more to confirm her judgment.

    Seeing Elliana¡¯s curiosity, Lana continues to share what she knows: "Miss Hannah Collins¡¯ grandfather and our master were battle buddies. When they retired, the two families arranged the betrothal for their unborn children in case one had a boy and the other a girl."

    "..." Elliana remains silent, gripping her skirt tightly, her face stiffening.

    Seeing Elliana like this, the smile on Lana¡¯s face immediately fades. She realizes she shouldn¡¯t have spoken of this. Over time, they became friends, and she momentarily forgot about Elliana¡¯s status.

    "Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am. After Miss Hannah Collins¡¯ grandfather passed away, the changing times made both families dismiss the arrangement. Miss Hannah Collins went to a military academy, and they haven¡¯t seen each other for over ten years."

    "..."

    Elliana still doesn¡¯t speak, only staring forward with wide eyes.

    Lana doesn¡¯t know what to think, but from the crystal-clear eyes, she can tell that ma¡¯am is jealous!

    With her lips pressed together, Lana can only nervously reassure her, "Rest assured, ma¡¯am. Young master only loves you. He just sees Miss Hannah Collins as a sister."

    These words barely register with Elliana. Her mind is filled with a chaotic loop: Norman Bet doesn¡¯t love me anymore, Norman Bet got engaged to someone else!

    ...

    Getting more and more upset, when they return to the hotel, entering the room, Elliana stubbornly avoids Lana¡¯s help, hopping on one foot back to the bedroom, cursing aloud, "Stupid man! Big pig¡¯s trotter!"

    With a bang, she ms the door shut. Outside, Lana looks conflicted, and she can¡¯t help but p her mouth twice.

    She thinks to herself: I shouldn¡¯t have spoken out of turn! Now it¡¯s all over, she¡¯ll be the reason for the divide between young master and ma¡¯am! If the olddy finds out, she¡¯ll surely face the consequences.

    "Ma¡¯am~ don¡¯t be sad, young master is very devoted, really." Lana can only try to exin from outside the master bedroom door.

    Though Elliana hears Lana¡¯s words, her chest still feels congested. Supporting herself on the bed, she carefully snuggles into the duvet and picks up her phone, dialing Joy Lyle.

    Beep...

    "Hello, Elliana, greetings."

    The voice on the phone isn¡¯t Joy Lyle¡¯s. She almost thinks she dialed the wrong number, but after looking, she sees she hadn¡¯t.

    "Who are you?" asks Elliana.

    "I¡¯m Miss Joy¡¯s assistant. Miss Joy is a bit busy, do you need something, Elliana?" the assistant asks with a smile.

    Joy Lyle isn¡¯t just a bit busy; she¡¯s extremely busy!

    "Uh... nothing, you go ahead and busy yourself."

    Elliana says, hanging up the call. After thinking, she calls Luna, and when connected, she says pitifully, "Luna, can you talk with me?"

    "Don¡¯t bother me, I¡¯m busy, hanging up!"

    Beep¨D¨D¨D!

 Chapter 69 - 68: The â€œFormidable Rival in Loveâ€

    <h4>Chapter 69: Chapter 68: The ¡°Formidable Rival in Love¡±</h4>

    "Young master, you¡¯re back, and good... good evening, Miss Hannah." Lana involuntarily swallowed when she saw Hannah.

    She thought: It¡¯s over now, he even brought her back, I wonder how furious the youngdy will be?

    "Mm, Lana, go tidy up the guest room." Norman Bet¡¯s intention was clear; it seemed Hannah would be staying here tonight.

    Elliana Lyle was still lying in bed sulking when she suddenly heard the door open. She looked up and saw that it was Norman who hade in.

    "Hmph!" Upon seeing the man¡¯s face, she turned around, leaving him only with her back.

    The man walked over in a few steps and asked with concern, "Girl, does it still hurt?"

    "Hmph! Don¡¯t bother with me!" Elliana pulled the quilt over herself, deciding not to engage with Norman today.

    "Girl?" Norman¡¯s eyes widened slightly in surprise; they were fine at the hospital, what happened now?

    "Get out!" Elliana said fiercely.

    Still quite feisty, Norman looked at the little girl wrapped tightly in the quilt and said sternly, "Come out!"

    "No!"

    Though Elliana¡¯s tone was harsh, in the face of absolute strength, she was still pulled out from under the quilt by the man and domineeringly encircled in his arms.

    She puffed up her cheeks, gazed at the man who was now close at hand for a while, and said aggrievedly, "Norman Bet! Do you not love me anymore?" Then she looked up at him with her lips pouting like a little red cherry.

    Facing this question, Norman raised an eyebrow slightly, ced hisrge hand over the back of her head, and directly answered her with action.

    "Mmm~"

    The kiss was soft and lingering...

    "What nonsense have you been thinking about all day? Hmm?" The man looked down at her.

    Though kissed, Elliana was still sulking, vigorously rubbed her mouth against the man¡¯s chest, turned her head away with a light hum, yet her body snuggled further into his embrace.

    It seemed her mood had improved considerably.

    At that moment, the door was pushed open from outside, and a tall woman in ck pants and a white sweater walked in, leaning calmly against the door frame, arms crossed, and teased the pair on the bed, "So that¡¯s why you haven¡¯t been affectionate with your sister, turns out you have another woman. I traveled all this way to see you, and sure enough, you¡¯ve forgotten old loves for new ones!"

    Elliana looked at the woman, was first stunned, then looked at Norman.

    Noticing the little girl¡¯s confused expression, Norman exined, "She¡¯s Hannah."

    Hannah? Elliana¡¯s eyes widened, instantly furious, her ears reddening, she coldly hmphed, pushed Norman aside, and wrapped herself in the quilt, exposing only her head.

    At this, Norman smiled wryly, realizing his little girl was jealous.

    Looking at Hannah, Norman frowned slightly, but seemed unable to do much about her, only able to sullenly push Hannah out the door and lock it.

    Once Norman returned and was about to hug Elliana, she whipped the nket over him and said, "I don¡¯t want to talk to you."

    With that, Elliana quickly slid off the bed, hopping on one foot toward the door.

    When she opened it, Hannah was actually still outside, and Elliana retracted her aggrieved look, ring defiantly at Hannah.

    She realized she could only look up, as Hannah was at least 180cm tall! Her slightly tanned skin made her look darker, but her facial features were stunning: high nose bridge, even almond-shaped face, distinct jawline, a perfect model figure.

    Theparison made Elliana¡¯s aura clearly diminish.

    Before she could speak, Hannah slightly curled her lips and teased, "I wondered what treasure Norman had hidden, turns out it¡¯s a Little Sprout, tsk tsk~ Norman, is this enough to eat?"

    "You!" Elliana was so angry she couldn¡¯t speak; she was wobbly due to standing on one foot, and in her agitation, she was about to fall backward!

    "Ah!"

    In that crucial moment, Hannah¡¯s pupils shrank, quickly grabbed Elliana¡¯s waist, gently pulled her into her arms.

    Holding Elliana by the waist with one hand, and using the index finger of the other to lift her chin, her dominant phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, "So you¡¯re just a bit paler than me? A bit cuter maybe, and..."

    Saying so, Hannah nced at her own chest, and said, "Not much bigger than mine either."

    Being teased like this, Elliana¡¯s face turned red, unsure if from shame or anger, she snapped, "Let me go!"

    "Oh wow~ Little Sprout¡¯s quite fierce, are you a cat?"

    Just as Elliana was about to retort, Norman pulled her from Hannah¡¯s arms, scooped her up horizontally, seemingly to stand up for his little girl.

    Hannah¡¯s amused expression paused momentarily.

    Elliana realized Hannah might also be feeling jealous, so she deliberately put her arms around Norman¡¯s neck, rubbing her face against his neck, and nced provocatively at Hannah, internally boasting, "See? My man!"

    "Hannah, I¡¯m warning you, stop bullying her!" Norman frowned, his expression serious with no hint of joking.

    "Ha, as if I enjoy bullying her." Hannah¡¯s face fell, nced meaningfully at Elliana, turned and entered the opposite guest room, mming the door shut.

    The force of it made Elliana¡¯s ears sting.

    Norman wanted to carry her back to bed, but she shouted towards the guest room, "Norman, tell me, between her and me, who do you choose?"

    "Alright, don¡¯t be mad."

    The man locked the door, carried her back to bed, petted her head affectionately, patiently exined, "Hannah is my sister, when I was young, the older kids in thepound bullied me, it was always her taking care of me. Don¡¯t let your imagination run wild."

    Elliana wasn¡¯t a three-year-old; she couldn¡¯t be so easily cated. Her face showed obvious disbelief, "And yet, you were once engaged to her! What¡¯s the deal with that?"

    "Silly, it¡¯s with you that I¡¯m truly engaged."

    "But..." Elliana wanted to say more, but was suddenly kissed by Norman, struggled a bit, but unable to break free, and could only let him pry open her lips.

    In the guest room, Lana was still helping Hannah tidy things, while Hannah sat on the bed with a sullen face, after a while she asked Lana, "Lana, what does that little thing next door usually like to eat?"

    "The youngdy likes wontons, and all things spicy, as for fruits, she loves strawberries and blueberries..." Lana said earnestly, since Hannah¡¯s visit allowed her to finally get the appendectomy she¡¯d postponed for a week, with Norman granting her a whole month¡¯s leave.

    Lana spoke more and more, and Hannah showed some impatience, waving her hand, "Alright, alright, I make whatever she¡¯ll eat, they¡¯re all spoiled, and remember, they¡¯re not married yet, don¡¯t call her youngdy."

    "But... the young master likes me calling her youngdy," Lana said awkwardly.

    Hannah squinted her eyes, exuding a hint of danger.

    ...

    The next day.

    AM.

    Hannah was sitting by Elliana¡¯s bed, quietly watching the sleeping Little Sprout, she couldn¡¯t help but reach out and poke the chubby, soft little face a couple of times.

    "Quite soft, but what good is it to be like a bun?"

    This action made Elliana wake up immediately, opening her eyes to see Hannah¡¯s face with a slight mischievous smile, like a viinous rogue!

    "What are you doing!" Elliana snapped at the woman in front of her, hastily sitting up and moving back a couple of steps.

    Her harsh tone momentarily cooled Hannah¡¯s expression, her slightly squinted eyes retracted, looking fierce, akin to a furious ss teacher!

    "What time is it and you¡¯re still not up? How could Norman like azy little thing like you?"

    Little thing? Was she talking about her? Elliana bit her lower lip, eyes wide open in anger staring at Hannah.

    "Get up now, I made breakfast." Hannah yanked off the quilt, unceremoniously pulled her by the arm, and hoisted her onto her shoulder like a sack.

    "What are you doing! Put me down!"

    St!!

    The crisp sound came from her butt, Hannah actually! Elliana was so incensed her eyes teared up.

    How was she supposed to contend with this "big" love rival that Norman found for her!

 Chapter 70 - 69: Take Her Out

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chapter 69: Take Her Out</h4>

    On a rather long solid wood dining table, the two sat face to face, eyeing each other with tension, neither willing to give in.

    About a minute passed, and Elliana Lyle kept staring at Hannah Collins with those big, seemingly fierce but adorable eyes, as if trying to bore a hole through her.

    At that moment, Hannah actually found this little girl kind of cute. No wonder Norman Bet liked her; if it were her, she¡¯d want to tease her too.

    "What are you staring at? Eat up! Little Sprout."

    "You..." Elliana nced at Hannah¡¯s t chest and retorted, "Airport!"

    Those three words nearly broke Hannah¡¯sposure, and she gritted her teeth, a low voice squeezing through, "You little brat, believe it or not, I¡¯ll beat you up?"

    "I¡¯m not afraid of you; if you dare to hit me, Norman Bet will kick you out!" Elliana replied, taking a sip of wonton soup, smacking her lips; it tasted pretty good.

    Hannah raised an eyebrow, looking condescendingly at Little Sprout across from her, "Little Sprout, Norman Bet and I have known each other since childhood. When he was born, do you even know where you were?"

    "Of course, I¡¯m younger and prettier than you. Norman Bet and I are officially engaged." Elliana replied sarcastically; she couldn¡¯t get angry; she should be making Hannah angry.

    "Ha!" Hannah exhaled heavily, suppressing her temper.

    The two continued their standoff for a long while, each snorting coldly before ignoring each other and burying themselves in their meal.

    ...

    After eating, Elliana hopped on one foot to the fridge, stealthily taking some snacks. Just as she was about to hop back to the master bedroom, Hannah stopped her.

    "Just ate, and now you¡¯re having snacks? Hand them over!" Hannah efficiently confiscated everything from her arms, leaving nothing behind.

    Elliana stayed silent, ring at Hannah before cursing under her breath and hopping back to the master bedroom, followed by a loud crash.

    Hannah, who was still putting things back in the fridge, was initially startled, then quickly rushed to the corner.

    Elliana, sprawled on the floor, grabbed the door handle to get up, twitching her injured foot a couple of times.

    "What¡¯s wrong with you? Chased by a dog?" Hannah said, looking down at the little girl in front of her.

    Elliana¡¯s eyes wandered, slightly embarrassed, but her pursed lips showed some resentment. She simply replied, "Yeah."

    "Hmm? Damn!"

    ...

    Since Elliana took a tumble, she hadn¡¯t left the room all morning.

    Hannah, having just finished making lunch and about to call her, suddenly received a call from Norman Bet.

    Leaning against the wall with one foot up, Hannah casually answered, "What¡¯s up calling me? Missing your big sister?"

    "Hannah, take her out for a stroll this afternoon; I don¡¯t have time to apany her today."

    "Okay," Hannah flicked her hair and agreed, then teased, "It¡¯s just taking a kid out, don¡¯t worry, your big sister here will look after her well."

    "Okay."

    Knock, knock knock.

    "Come out to eat; I¡¯ll take you out for a strollter. Lying in bed all day after eating, what¡¯s that about?"

    "I¡¯m not hungry, not eating, and not going out. I just like lying in bed!"

    "Little Sprout, don¡¯t make me repeat myself."

    Using amanding tone, Hannah somehow made Elliana, hiding under the covers, feel a bit guilty.

    "3"

    "2"

    "Got it! I¡¯m putting on my shoes!" Elliana shouted towards the door.

    The voice outside stopped, and only then did she lift the covers, putting on one shoe before hopping towards the door, click!

    As she opened the door, Hannah stood there, slightly lowering her head, eyes on her dangling foot.

    "How did you get hurt?"

    Elliana averted her gaze, trying to avoid eye contact with Hannah, speaking with a hint of pride, "I don¡¯t know."

    "Hey! What are you doing?"

    Before she knew it, Hannah scooped her up horizontally, "Afraid you¡¯ll fall again, and then wouldn¡¯t Norman me me?"

    Hannah said, carrying her to the dining table.

    Today for lunch, there was millet porridge,va buns, and stir-fried meat. Honestly, Hannah had some culinary skills, making Elliana think of the saying, to win a man¡¯s heart, you must first catch his stomach.

    But she couldn¡¯t cook yet...

    Thinking of this, she nned to watch cooking videos and learn wellter.

    "Little Sprout, shall I introduce you to a soldier? You can give Norman Bet up to me, how about it?"

    "Pfft~" Elliana sprayed out the millet porridge.

    Hannah really dared to say it; she stared at the half-smiling woman in front of her, baring her teeth fiercely, "No way! I¡¯m getting the marriage certificate with Norman Bet tomorrow!"

    "The Bet Family has rules; you have to have an engagement party before getting a marriage certificate." Hannah said seriously, "Little Sprout, you¡¯re so short, it¡¯ll affect the Bet Family¡¯s genes."

    Elliana: "..."

    Pierced at a sore spot, Elliana was fuming, yet she couldn¡¯t argue because Hannah was right.

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. Her big eyes gradually welled up, blinking to hold back tears. She¡¯s prone to tears, easily crying with any emotion, so she had to bow her head and gulp down porridge to ease her feelings.

    Seeing Elliana stay silent, Hannah paused for a moment, fearing she¡¯d start bawling, so she changed the subject, "Norman asked me to take you outter; where do you want to go?"

    "Anywhere." Elliana replied indifferently.

    Hannah raised her eyebrows, somewhat helpless, "Alright, we¡¯ll see then."

    ...

    ¨D¨D¨DNorth City Central Street, Jinrong City Shopping Center.

    Getting out of the car, Hannah took the wheelchair from the trunk, ced it next to the car door, "Come on out."

    "Wait a sec." Elliana was still adjusting her hat and mask.

    The reason being thatst time Lana took her out for a stroll, she was nearly surrounded by a crowd within no time, almost dismantling her wheelchair.

    "Alright, alright, you¡¯re disguised well enough, superstar." Hannah urged impatiently, having little patience for waiting.

    Even wrapped so tightly her own mother might not recognize her, Elliana finally agreed to get out of the car, stubbornly refusing Hannah¡¯s help.

    Seated in the wheelchair, she didn¡¯t wait for Hannah to grab the push handles, directly pressing the electric speed-up button on the armrest, zooming away.

    Hannah: "?"

    Three minutester.

    Hannah pushed her towards the supermarket, with the wheelchair¡¯s electric box already removed by Hannah.

    At the supermarket storage counter, Hannah straightforwardly said, "Store the wheelchair."

    "Alright, this item is quiterge, please scan the code." The counter staff handed a sign with a QR code to Hannah.

    Elliana looked up at Hannah in astonishment, discontented, "Why store it here; I still need to sit. Are you nning to store me along with it?"

    "Hmm, all set." Hannah spoke to the staff, not addressing Elliana.

    Pocketing her phone, she wordlessly scooped Elliana out of the wheelchair and headed straight for the supermarket entrance.

    "Sit tight!"

    Now seated in a shopping cart, Ellianained as Hannah pushed her into the supermarket, "I¡¯m not a child, why stick me in here?"

    "Pushing both a wheelchair and a shopping cart is a hassle; this makes it all one go." Hannah¡¯s words were more of an exnation.

    "I can move on my own! Why¡¯d you dismantle my electric box?" Elliana was speechless. When Hannah caught up to her, she lifted both her and the wheelchair off the ground, the wheels spinning several times.

    While observing the product aisles, Hannah retorted, "I wonder who was treating the wheelchair like a race car? I was afraid you¡¯d break your neck!"

 Chapter 71 - 70: Such a Good Person

    <h4>Chapter 71: Chapter 70: Such a Good Person</h4>

    Hannah Collins looked at the supermarket signs and made her way to the snack aisle. Gazing at the wide array of chip vors, she nced down at Elliana Lyle, who was sitting in the cart like a queen, and asked, "Want some chips?"

    "Uh..." Elliana was about to say yes, but then remembered that Norman Bet forbade her from eating chips. So, full of reluctance, she stared at the shelves and said somethingpletely against her heart, "I don¡¯t eat them."

    Elliana¡¯s decisive refusal made Hannah somewhat curious, and she chuckled, "What¡¯s this? Don¡¯t kids love these?"

    "Who says kids love chips? I don¡¯t like them. No, I¡¯m not a kid!" Elliana raised her head and gave Hannah a fierce look.

    "Should I go then?"

    "Go ahead!"

    Hannah lowered her gaze, noticing Elliana swallowing as she looked at the bags of chips nearby, yet pretending not to want them. Amused, she said with a smile, "It¡¯s no big deal to have some asionally."

    Hannah¡¯s words hit the spot, and Elliana hesitated for a moment. Looking up at Hannah, she casually said, "But Norman Bet doesn¡¯t let me eat these unhealthy snacks."

    When Elliana said this, her mind went nk; she just wanted Hannah to confirm it to ease her guilt. But Hannah heard the underlying smugness in Elliana¡¯s words.

    "...Then we won¡¯t buy them!" Hannah¡¯s face turned cold as she pushed the cart to leave the area.

    Watching the bags of chips slip away, seeing the colorful packaging, she seemed to catch a whiff of their aroma. Elliana panicked a little and quickly called out, "No, wait~ I want them, Hannah, I want to buy chips!"

    Hannah raised an eyebrow, "Are you begging me?" She didn¡¯t stop, just slowed down, intending to give the little rascal a chance.

    What? Beg a rival? No way, how could Elliana do something so spineless?

    Seeing that the little rascal in the cart had no intention of pleading with her, Hannah raised her voice slightly, "If you don¡¯t want them, let¡¯s forget it."

    A great man can adapt to circumstances, Elliana pursed her lips and began, "Please."

    At the sound of those words, Hannah¡¯s eyebrows lifted slightly, and she teased in a low voice, "Plead for what?"

    "...Buy me chips~"

    Elliana¡¯s voice was soft and gentle, with a hint of coquetry. Coupled with her big round eyes, who could resist that?

    "Then we¡¯ll buy them!"

    Afterwards, as Elliana held a heap of chips, shepletely forgot that Hannah was her rival, engrossed in examining the chip vors and momentarily thinking Hannah was a wonderful person.

    "Hannah, I want gummy bears, blueberry-vored!"

    "Buy."

    ...

    Back at the hotel, Elliana sat on the sofa, eagerly tearing open a bag of lime-vored chips. Earlier in the car, Hannah wouldn¡¯t let her eat them.

    After holding back the whole way, she grabbed a handful and stuffed them in her mouth, munching like a rabbit.

    "You can only eat one bag at a time. I¡¯ll put the rest in the cab for you," Hannah said without giving Elliana a chance to argue, promptly taking the shopping bag and cing it on the highest shelf in front of Elliana.

    A height she couldn¡¯t reach even on her tiptoes.

    Pikachu?¡«

    It was Luna calling.

    "Hey, what gives?"

    Elliana hadn¡¯t forgotten Luna hanging up on herst time, so she responded with a hint of impatience, holding onto a "When I was in trouble, you weren¡¯t there; now you¡¯re just a stranger" attitude.

    "Buddy, is your leg better? I sent you something on WeChat," Luna said.

    "Hmph, calling me Buddy now? Where were you earlier?" Ellianained leisurely, chewing her chips.

    Hannah heard this sentence quite naturally.

    "Alright, alright, I¡¯ve sent it to you. I was busyst time, look first, I¡¯ll exin on WeChat," Luna hastily said before hanging up, secretly grumbling: Troublesome every single day.

    On WeChat, Luna had already sent the message.

    Pablo Jose Juan, requesting a monthly sry of 150,000, Li Si asking for 70,000, Tommy asking for 80,000.

    Adding it up, she¡¯d spend 300,000 a month, 3.6 million a year. That¡¯s essentially spending ten thousand a day...

    Luna (Master): "Also, you need to purchase some office tools and renovations. At least 200,000, needed immediately."

    Cat: "I¡¯ve already wired 2 million and lied to Norman Bet that I sent it to his brother. If I spend so much more now, Norman will notice."

    Luna (Master): "What are you afraid of? Come out, I¡¯m downstairs at your hotel now."

    Seeing this message, Elliana instinctively nced at Hannah, who was boiling water. How was she going to get out?

    She realized Hannah probably wouldn¡¯t let her go out alone; she needed to get Hannah to leave and reattach the electric box to her wheelchair.

    "Hannah, you took off my battery box. Could you install it back for me?"

    "I¡¯ll get whatever you need," Hannah replied, seemingly noticing something, and probed, "Why, you want to go out? With me pushing, why bother using it?"

    Clearly, Hannah wasn¡¯t nning to put it back, leaving Elliana a bit frustrated as she stared absentmindedly at the wheelchair without its battery box. How was she going to get out? Should she have Luna pick her up?

    Hannah¡¯s intuitiveness naturally sensed her unusual behavior. This little rascal, could she really be putting a hat on Norman Bet?

    Staring at the wheelchair for a while, Elliana was pulled back to reality by Luna¡¯s message urging her. She replied, "Can you bring a wheelchair to the elevator for me? I can¡¯t go out by myself."

    Luna (Master): "Wheelchair? Don¡¯t you have your own? What do you mean you can¡¯t go out alone? Do you want me toe up and get you?"

    Looking at the wheelchair with the battery box removed, Elliana realized that her ability to move it would be slower than hopping, and the seven meters distance from the elevator to the door would definitely cause noise. Coupled with waiting for the elevator, it was likely Hannah would catch her.

    So she exined the situation to Luna.

    After devising a n, Elliana said to Hannah, who was pouring her water, "Hannah, could you get the game console from the room for me? I want to y."

    "Okay, sure." Hannah approached her, cing the hot water in front of her and cautioning, "Be careful, it¡¯s hot."

    "Thank you." Hannah¡¯s closeness made her a bit guilty.

    While Hannah was in the master bedroom, Elliana quickly got off the sofa, cautiously hopping with assistance from the wall.

    "It¡¯s not here; where did you put it?"

    "It¡¯s right by the pillow," Elliana replied to the question from inside.

    With the sound of a door opening and closing heavily, Hannah quickly exited the master bedroom. Upon looking around, Elliana was nowhere to be seen in the living room.

    Frowning, Hannah hastily headed towards the door. Just then, the elevator was descending. After pressing the button twice in quick session without sess, she rushed towards the stairs.

    This building only had six floors, and Hannah descended the stairwell skillfully, eventually reaching the ground a second faster than the elevator.

    When the elevator door opened, it revealed only two housekeeping staff and a little girl in a Lolita dress, which puzzled Hannah. Where did Elliana go?

    Suddenly recalling the surveince in the living room, as Lana had mentioned, she sat in the elevator and immediately returned.

    Back in the room, she noticed the wheelchair was still by the entrance, but the second bedroom door was open, finally realizing Elliana had never actually left. She just sneaked from her blind spot into the second bedroom while Hannah was distracted.

    She walked to the floor-to-ceiling window and looked down, spotting a little girl hopping on one leg towards a white car parked by the roadside and getting in.

    As she watched the car drive away, Hannah folded her arms and stood for a moment before making a phone call, requesting surveince of the car. She wondered what kind of man could be better than Norman Bet.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 72 - 71: Two Little Sprouts

    <h4>Chapter 72: Chapter 71: Two Little Sprouts</h4>

    A white Volkswagen was driving on a broad yet somewhat congested road. Luna nced at Elliana Lyle, who was wearing a mask and a cap, and teased, "Wrapped up so tightly, I almost thought a mummy came hopping over."

    "Have you ever seen such a good-looking mummy?" Elliana sat in the passenger seat, focusing intently on gently rubbing her ankle. She had almost fallen and injured herself while hurrying downstairs earlier.

    Then she asked, "What exactly did you call me out for?"

    "How¡¯s your foot recovering?"

    Seeing that Luna was avoiding her question, Elliana raised her head and asked again, "Stop dodging the question, why did you call me out?"

    "You¡¯ll know soon enough."

    Twenty minutester, the car entered a one-way street. Not far ahead was a French restaurant, Victor.

    "Get out, I¡¯ll go park the car," Luna said as she pulled over to the side of the road.

    Elliana didn¡¯t seem inclined to get out of the car. She nced at Luna expressionlessly, "Do you think it¡¯s appropriate to leave me here alone?"

    "Sorry, forgot," Luna said, turning the steering wheel towards the underground parking lot.

    After parking the car, Luna helped an hopping Elliana out.

    Victor was a French restaurant full of free-spirited romanticism, with exquisite dormer windows, carved gallery columns, aged oak, and hanging brass chandeliers that fully showcased a romantic atmosphere.

    "What are we doing here?" Elliana settled into the reserved seat, asionally tugging at her fisherman hat and scarf wrapped around her neck. Her loose, cream-colored sweater made her look even more petite.

    "I¡¯m here to introduce you to someone." Luna said, calling over a blue-eyed foreign waiter and conversing in fluent French.

    The waiter frowned after listening, then tentatively asked, "Can you speak English? Or I can speak a little Chinese, I¡¯m British, here for a job."

    ...

    "That¡¯s all," Luna said, and the waiter nodded, said he¡¯d be back shortly, and left.

    Elliana could finally speak up, asking, "Who are we waiting for?"

    "You¡¯ll find out shortly." Luna had just finished speaking when a short-haired woman in a ck trench coat and Martin boots approached them.

    The woman arrived at their table, lightly tapping her left index finger on the tabletop, facing Elliana with a leisurely smile.

    This woman was none other than Hannah Collins. Elliana was stunned for a moment, then found it odd¡ªhow did she follow them here?

    "Seems there are two Little Sprouts," Hannah said as she nced at Luna, who was dressed in a red and white floral Lolita outfit, then gave a smile full of ambiguous mockery, almost teasingly.

    Little Sprout? Luna furrowed her brows instantly, a shadow of gloom descending on her face, and retorted coldly, "Who are you calling Little Sprout?"

    Hannah raised an eyebrow slightly, unexpectedly replying, "It¡¯s a rather fierce Little Sprout."

    "..." Luna fell silent for a moment, then sneered, "Ha! Little Sprout, is it? Tomboy." She raised her chin, straightening her back, and somehow, she didn¡¯t lose her momentum.

    The air seemed to freeze at that moment. Hannah¡¯s smile faded between her brows, but she didn¡¯t seem upset. With her clean-cut, masculine hairstyle and cold expression, she appeared even more heroic. If not for hearing her voice, one might have mistaken her for a dashing male spy.

    "Lit-tle Sprout."

    Sitting silently beside, Elliana suddenly sensed the tension. Were these two people, despite their size disparity, going to fight?

    Hannah¡¯sposed and aloof demeanor indeed annoyed Luna. When had she ever been treated like this? Who dared provoke her in XRB?

    Yet, upon returning to the country, first was Norman Bet¡¯s threat, and now this inexplicable woman.

    "Hannah...!!" Elliana hadn¡¯t finished saying the "H" before Luna lunged like a fast viper, suddenly producing a small knife from who knows where!

    Just as Elliana¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her jaw dropping, Hannah subtly sidestepped, grabbing Luna¡¯s knife-wielding wrist with a reverse grip, then twisting back to immobilize Luna¡¯s hands, lifting them high, while the other hand gripped Luna¡¯s delicate neck!

    "Your speed is impressive, but useless against real skill," Hannah said, eyes brimming with interest, finding Luna¡¯s friend also quite intriguing.

    "Hannah! Let¡¯s talk this over!" Elliana immediately stood up, leaning on the table, appearing somewhat flustered.

    Surprisingly, Luna didn¡¯t struggle, bing quiet and rxed, her narrowed eyes casting a dangerous look at the hand around her neck.

    Elliana was at a loss for what to do, join them? But she couldn¡¯t fight against Hannah either.

    Suddenly!

    Luna bit down on the hand squeezing her neck, and judging by Luna¡¯s fierce expression, she meant it for real!

    "Little thing, let go of your mouth, and I¡¯ll let you go," Hannah said coldly.

    Luna thought, if she let go first, wouldn¡¯t that mean she¡¯s giving in? So she bit down harder, her attitude clear¡ªunless Hannah releases her hand, she wouldn¡¯t loosen her grip.

    In truth, the hand Hannah used to grip her neck wasn¡¯t exerting much force, but her grip was steady, leaving Luna immobile. With no better option, she resorted to this strategy. Her brother had once told her, if you can¡¯t fight back, bite; if you can¡¯t bite, run.

    To outsiders, it looked like Hannah was holding Luna tenderly, and as they weren¡¯t involved in a verbal altercation, no one intervened.

    Elliana had long observed Luna¡¯s unwillingness to admit defeat, but Hannah wasn¡¯t one to be trifled with either. She pondered for a moment, then shed Luna a signal.

    She feigned a hop and cried out, "Ah, ouch! Hannah! My foot hurts..."

    Her seasoned acting skills made it hard to tell the truth from the lie, and Hannah¡¯s attention turned to Elliana at once.

    Taking advantage of this, Luna ducked swiftly, freeing her hands from Hannah¡¯s grip, sliding under Hannah¡¯s arm, and sprinting outside.

    "Why run?" Hannah was about to give chase, but Elliana held onto her.

    "Does it hurt?" Hannah showed concern.

    Elliana nodded quickly, though there was no sign of pain on her face.

    It seemed like it wasn¡¯t serious. Seeing Elliana¡¯s expression, Hannah almost wanted tough, "Little Sprout, you think you can escape from my grasp? Even Norman Bet couldn¡¯t get away."

    "..." Elliana released her hold, nearly forgetting Hannah was her love rival.

    "I thought you¡¯d secretlye to meet another man, so I could catch you in the act. Turns out I caught another Little Sprout instead." Hannah teased her cheerfully.

    Elliana had intended to retort, but noticing the teeth mark on Hannah¡¯s left hand, she deted like a slowly leaking balloon. A neatly circr bite mark, both white and purple, looked painful at a nce.

    "Does it... hurt?" Elliana asked, taking the initiative to hold up Hannah¡¯s hand, focused and serious, checking to make sure it wasn¡¯t bruised too badly.

    Seeing a Little Sprout seriously cradling her hand, a strange ripple stirred within Hannah: "What? You want a bite too?"

    "..." Have you no shame?

    Elliana jerked Hannah¡¯s hand away, and without a sideways nce, hopped towards anything she could hold onto for support.

    Her foot gave way, and Hannah caught her in an embrace again. Naturally, Elliana wrapped her arms around Hannah¡¯s neck; hopping wasn¡¯t a good way to walk anyway.

    "Wait! You haven¡¯t paid the bill yet!"

    ...

    Outside the restaurant, a handsome guy with blond hair and blue eyes approached, sharply dressed in a suit. With his snowy white skin andmon facial features, thebination was absolutely stunning¡ªa male version of Snow White no less.

    Elliana couldn¡¯t help but take a second look, feeling like she recognized him somehow.

    After thinking it over, she dismissed it. She probably didn¡¯t know him; all foreigners looked the same anyway.

    "Hannah, how did you find us?"

    "Take a guess."

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 73 - 72: Misfortune Comes in Twos and Threes

    <h4>Chapter 73: Chapter 72: Misfortune Comes in Twos and Threes</h4>

    ¨D¨D¨DVicars Hotel.

    Elliana Lyle sat in a wheelchair, pushed by Hannah Collins. In fact, she hadn¡¯t expected Hannah to bring her wheelchair along.

    At this moment, in front of the hotel, a security guard was driving away an old beggar with a stick. The old beggar, having been struck, hurriedly ran away.

    That disheveled beggar was running in her direction, stumbling, dressed in a dirty white floral shirt, and the military canvas shoes on their feet were washed to the point of fraying.

    As they brushed past each other, Elliana froze, but she still recognized her! She quickly shouted: "Aunt Nancy!"

    As she called out, Elliana wasn¡¯t sure if she had mistaken the person.

    The old beggar immediately stopped, slowly turned around, "El... El... Elliana girl¨D¨D¨D!"

    That voice, worn and repressed, sounded out, hoarse from excitement, and she hurried towards Elliana.

    Seeing that she was getting closer, Hannah swiftly stood in front of Elliana, preventing the overly excited old woman from approaching.

    A month and a half ago.

    At that time, Elliana was still filming South Wind Song. At 9 PM, Elliana received a call from Aunt Nancy.

    "Hello, Aunt Nancy."

    Nestled in a man¡¯s embrace watching TV, Elliana immediately sat up. A call from Aunt Nancy at this hour surely meant news about Nancy.

    But Aunt Nancy¡¯s sobs on the other end of the line filled her with unease. Something must have happened. She hurriedly asked, "Aunt Nancy, what¡¯s wrong? What happened?"

    "Elliana girl, I¡¯ve returned to the countryside. The police still haven¡¯t found my daughter. What should I do...?"

    Aunt Nancy sat on the kang, a dim light bulb lit the room, and she was crying uncontrobly.

    Hearing Aunt Nancy¡¯s cries, Elliana immediately stood up, pacing a bit anxiously,forting her: "Aunt Nancy, don¡¯t cry, we¡¯ll find her. It¡¯s just a matter of time. Please don¡¯t cry..."

    In her panic, she really didn¡¯t know how to console people.

    "Elliana girl, if my daughteres looking for you, you must tell me..." Aunt Nancy spoke intermittently, almost choked with sobs.

    "I know, once I find Nancy, I¡¯ll definitely tell you. Aunt Nancy, don¡¯t cry, we will find her, we definitely will."

    Elliana awkwardlyforted her, her free right hand hovering in the air, unsure of where to ce it.

    After a few words, Aunt Nancy hung up the phone. Seeing Elliana¡¯s worried expression, Norman Bet spoke: "Girl,e here."

    Elliana obediently walked to the man, awaiting his next words.

    "I¡¯ll have someone continue to investigate Nancy¡¯s going abroad situation. Just wait for the news, alright?"

    "...Okay."

    ¨D¨D¨DSouth City, Straighthead Town, Wang Family Vige.

    A dpidated dirt-walled house, surrounded by weeds, the walls made of dirt mixed with cow dung and stones, not too big, not too small, providing shelter from wind and rain. At the door, an old roon cat, strong from years of hunting prey, looked around with wide ck eyes, its pointed ears pinning back and forth towards its neck.

    "Wuwu..." A hoarse, low sobbing sounded particrly terrifying in this silent dark night.

    "Wuwu..."

    An unadorned bedroom with no clutter, simply having a bed, a broken wardrobe, with a crooked door.

    A woman sat on the bed, holding an old photograph, her sobs ghostly wailing, not at all an exaggeration to describe her sorrow.

    In the photo, there were three people, a young couple holding a child, the woman with braided hair, wearing a long dress, the man dressed in an oversized ck old suit, looking ill-fitting, and judging by the obviously fake sea background, it was taken in a studio.

    A night passed like this.

    In the morning, the old cat climbed on the roof, Aunt Nancy came out carrying a hoe. Though it was toote to nt vegetables in this season and past harvest time, she still wanted to see how the sweet potatoes nted in spring were doing.

    The river water sshed white as it flowed downhill, the sweet potato vines sprawling wildly into the small river.

    Half an hourter, the woman who had been fishing for sweet potato leaves by the river turned to fishing for her phone, her only phone, her only way to contact Elliana.

    In the rapid current, her phone was nowhere to be seen, the water reaching her waist.

    A monthter, she went to town to buy a new phone, but it had no number for Elliana. She lived in a daze every day, afraid Elliana had called, afraid the police were trying to reach her.

    Unaware she could get a new SIM card, returning to the vige, her eyes vacant and filled with tears, she seemed to have aged ten years, haggard to the point of pity.

    On the street side, two high school students huddled against a diner, using its Wi-Fi, one with ear-length short hair holding a phone, the other long-haired watching. Upon scrolling to a video, the short-haired girl excitedly said: "These paparazzi are sick, camping outside someone¡¯s hotel to block them. Elliana Lyle is too good-tempered. If it were me, I¡¯d be angry."

    "I feel so bad for Elliana."

    Elliana? Which Elliana?

    Aunt Nancy realized, hurriedly approaching the two girls: "Girls! Do you know where Elliana Lyle is?"

    "North... North City, Grandma, are you a fan too?" The girls were scared by this woman who seemed like a madwoman and stood up.

    The long-haired girl quickly pulled the short-haired one, urging: "Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go! She¡¯s crazy."

    "Girls! Girls!" She wanted to ask more, but with her shouting, the two girls ran even faster.

    After returning, she packed her bags, ready to head to North City.

    She didn¡¯t know where Elliana was, but she had heard "hotel." She asked at every hotel in North City, staying three days at each, chased away by security, evicted by city patrols...

    After loitering at many hotels, she came to Vicars Hotel, sitting in a corner, trying her best not to attract the security¡¯s attention.

    Her hair was white and thin, wrists emaciated, fingers like dry tree branches. Her cheeks sunken, she¡¯s not unlike a skeleton d in skin.

    She watched the passing people intently.

    "Where did this old hage from, get lost!"

    Seeing a security guard wielding a stick with a fierce demeanor, she trembled and pleaded: "I...I¡¯m not upying space, I¡¯m just waiting for someone..." Saying this, she shrank further into the corner.

    The security guard impatiently said: "Scram! If you don¡¯t, I¡¯m gonna start hitting!"

    "I¡¯m just waiting for someone, I..."

    The stick came down, hitting her arm. In pain, she could only scramble to get up and quickly run away.

    ...

    "Oh dear Lord..." When Aunt Nancy confirmed it was Elliana, she cried, nearly losing her voice.

    Elliana pushed Hannah aside and reached out to hold Aunt Nancy¡¯s hand, "Aunt Nancy, how did you end up here?"

    Thinking of Aunt Nancy just being hit, she immediately said: "Hannah! Can you help me, help take Aunt Nancy to the hospital for a check-up."

    "No need to trouble ourselves, let¡¯s just take her upstairs and find a doctor." With that, Hannah reached to support the trembling Aunt Nancy, and with the other hand, she pushed Elliana inside.

    At the door, Hannah gave the security guard a cold nce.

    The fate of that security guard was obvious.

    Back at the hotel, Elliana sat on the sofa holding Aunt Nancy¡¯s hand, quietly listening to her recount the past month and a half.

    Listening, her eyes reddened. This woman, with only skin clinging to bones, appeared haggard like an 80-year-old, looking almost nothing like the Aunt Nancy she had first met.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!